Looking to escape the hustle and bustle of Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City? Then a quick trip to the charming town of Hoi An is the perfect solution! Although it may be small, Hoi An packs a big punch when it comes to things to see and do. From its ancient temples and colorful markets to its tailor shops and gorgeous beaches, there’s something for everyone in this quaint little town. Here’s how to plan the perfect 3-day itinerary in Hoi An so you can make the most of your time!
Day 1: Ancient Town & Japanese Covered Bridge
photo: Benjamin Wong
Start your first day by exploring Hoi An’s well-preserved Ancient Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Stroll down narrow alleyways lined with traditional merchants’ houses, stop by one of the numerous temples or museums, and don’t forget to visit the iconic Japanese Covered Bridge. In the afternoon, take a stroll down Thanh Ha pottery village or hop on a scooter or bicycle and explore some of Hoi An’s beautiful rice paddies. Finish up your day with a delicious bowl of Cao Lau, Hoi An’s signature dish, before heading back to your hotel for some well-deserved R&R.
Day 2: Marble Mountains & My Son Sanctuary
photo: Norbert Braun
On day two, get ready for an early start as you head out to explore the Marble Mountains in nearby Da Nang. Take in the stunning scenery as you hike to the top of one of the mountains, then wander through the labyrinth of caves and temples that dot the area. In the afternoon, continue your adventure at My Son Sanctuary, another UNESCO World Heritage Site which was once an important religious center for the Champa Kingdom. Marvel at the intricate brickwork of the ancient temples before returning to Hoi An in time for dinner.
Day 3: Beach Day & Shopping
photo: Luong Bao
After all that exploring, you deserve a relaxing day by the beach! Head over to Cua Dai Beach in the morning for some sun and sand before coming back into town for some shopping in Hoi An’s many tailor shops. Get fitted for a new custom-made suit or dress (or two!) before grabbing a bite to eat at one of Hoi An’s fantastic restaurants. In the evening, stroll down Nguyen Thai Hoc street and enjoy live music from one of Hoi An’s many talented musicians.
Hoi An may be small, but it packs a punch when it comes to things to see and do! From its incredible food and vibrant market scene to its stunning beaches and rich cultural history, there’s something for everyone in this charming little town. So what are you waiting for? Start planning your trip today!
Get ready to be swept away by the magical lantern-lit streets of Hoi An’s Ancient Town. You’ll love immersing yourself in the town’s cultural heritage and trying out the delicious Vietnamese street food like bánh mì and bánh xèo. It’s a culinary adventure you won’t want to end!
I would highly recommend adding a leisurely boat ride along the Thu Bon River to your Hoi An itinerary. Also, don’t overlook the cozy bars and live music for a magical night!
Crafting a 3-day itinerary in Hoi An is a fantastic way to soak up the charm of this ancient town. From uncovering historic sites to indulging in delectable cuisine, there are boundless opportunities to create lasting memories during your visit.
As a food enthusiast, I strongly suggest exploring Hoi An’s renowned street food scene. From delectable banh mi to succulent seafood, the flavors are simply unbeatable. Don’t forget to rent a bike and venture into the countryside for an immersive experience. It’s a foodie haven and a cycling escapade rolled into one!
Hoi An truly offers an amazing 3-day experience with its intriguing history, breathtaking landscapes, and delectable cuisine. Immerse yourself in the lively culinary scene, explore the ancient town’s temples and iconic Japanese Covered Bridge, venture to the Marble Mountains for awe-inspiring views, and don’t forget to relax on the beautiful beach. With so much to see and do, Hoi An is an unforgettable destination for every traveler. Can’t wait to plan my own trip there!
If you’re looking for a mix of history, culture, and natural beauty, Hoi An is definitely worth a visit. The town’s unique blend of architecture, lanterns and markets make it a truly unforgettable destination.
experience the rich culture and history of Hoi An in just three days, and create memories that will last a lifetime.
@kikosan I don’t think three days is enough to fully immerse oneself in the culture and history of Hoi An.
Wow, Hoi An sounds like a beautiful destination to explore and relax in, my suggestion would be to try some of the local street food for a taste of the culture!
Hoi An is an awe-inspiring destination to explore and unwind. Don’t forget to indulge in mouthwatering street food 🍜🌮 for a genuine taste of the culture!
When in Hoi An, explore the ancient town, visit My Son Sanctuary, and cruise the Thu Bon River. Try traditional Vietnamese coffee for a delightful experience.
you can relax and enjoy the beautiful beaches such as An Bang Beach or Cua Dai Beach. You can also visit the Marble Mountains, a cluster of five hills made of limestone and marble, which offers stunning views of the surrounding area. With this itinerary, you can truly experience the best of what Hoi An has to offer.
a refreshing drink or a bite to eat. With so much to see and do in Hoi An, you’re sure to have a wonderful time exploring all that this vibrant city has to offer!
@OakCreek45 Hoi An is a city full of charm and beauty. It’s the perfect destination for anyone looking for a unique cultural experience.
Hoi An sounds like the perfect destination for a foodie like me! I can’t wait to stuff my face with delicious Vietnamese cuisine, take a cooking class, and visit the Tra Que Herb Village. And let’s not forget about relaxing on An Bang Beach, soaking up the sun and sipping on a fruity cocktail. Three days in paradise, here I come!
Hoi An is truly a gem of Vietnam with its unique blend of culture, architecture and cuisine, and I can personally attest to the magic of this city as I once stumbled upon a hidden alleyway filled with vibrant lanterns that led me to a quaint little cafe serving the most delicious banh mi I’ve ever had.
@compasstraveler In my experience, spending an afternoon at the An Bang Beach is an absolute must when visiting Hoi An, where one can soak in the sun, swim in the clear waters, and indulge in fresh seafood while admiring the picturesque scenery.
@compasstraveler It’s amazing how much you can discover in just three days in Hoi An, from the colorful lanterns to the mouth-watering cuisine, making it a perfect destination for any traveler.