This charming riverside town was once one of Asia’s busiest trading ports.
The UNESCO-stamped port city of Hoi An is about as picturesque, atmospheric and authentic as you could imagine.
Hoi An is home to 15th-century streets, balconied buildings and teahouses, plus a handful of Chinese temples that have barely changed over the last few hundred years.
And although Hoi An’s Old Town tends to (understandably) attract a good number of visitors for its size, there is little to no traffic and you can still find your own secluded spots, particularly at the city’s nearby beaches.
In truth, even when the lanes and waterfront bars or restaurants are busy, it’s still easy to fully appreciate the magic of visiting Hoi An, after all, the busiest of footpaths at the height of the day still pale in comparison to Vietnam’s hectic megacities. While here, Hoi An’s must-see sites include the Japanese Covered Bridge; Hoi An Market and Hoi An Old Town; the Old House of Tan Ky; Ruins of My Son; the Fujian Assembly Hall; and An Bang Beach.
Then, when it comes to your culinary journey, the cuisine of Hoi An is also another highlight. From expert cooking classes to street vendors barbequing fresh seafood, delectable tasting menus of delicate Asian dishes or some of the finest ho noodles, spring rolls and Vietnamese crepes you’ll find anywhere in the country; Hoi An’s gastronomic extravaganza awaits.
Nicola
Travel Specialist
Where to go in Vietnam
Vietnam travel information
When to visit Vietnam
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- Time zone: +7 GMT
- Flight time: 15-15 hours
- Recommended airlines: Vietnam Airlines, Singapore Airlines, Air France, Qatar Airways, Emirates, Thai Airways
- Currency: Vietnamese dong
- Tipping guideline: Tipping is not expected in Vietnam, but small tips for good service are appreciated.
- Health considerations: There is a risk of altitude illness when travelling to destinations of 2,500m or higher. There is a risk of dengue. There is a risk of Zika virus. There is a low risk of malaria in the southern part of the country in the provinces of Tay Ninh, Lam Dong, Dak Lak, Gia Lai, and Kon Tum, and other rural areas of Vietnam. There is no risk of malaria in large cities, including Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh (Saigon), the Red River delta, coastal areas north of Nha Trang and Phu Quoc Island.
- Capital: Hanoi
- Population: 9.94977e+007
- National languages: Vietnamese
- Electricity and plugs: Type A, C, & D, 220 V
- Mobile phone coverage: Good coverage with several mobile service providers available.
- UK passport visa requirements: You may need a visa for Vietnam if you have a British passport - apply online
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