by xiquinhosilva (cropped image) / [CC BY-SA 2.0

A Timeless Unesco World Heritage Gem with a Peaceful Ambiance

A. About Hoi An

Nickname: Vietnam's Venice

Hoi An, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, stands as a meticulously preserved open-air museum with nearly 850 historic landmarks, showcasing a harmonious blend of Chinese, Japanese, and European architectural influences from its days as a major trading port between the 15th and 19th centuries.

The town has undergone a remarkable transformation since the 1990s, evolving from a fading provincial port into Vietnam's premier tourist destination while safeguarding its heritage of ancient temples, merchant houses, and iconic structures like the Japanese Covered Bridge.

Hoi An’s enchanting streets, particularly at night, are illuminated by vibrant lanterns, creating a captivating ambiance that culminates in the Lantern Festival, a monthly celebration of traditional artistry and local spirit.


The Good

Hoi An benefits from an exceptional location near the Thu Bon River and coastline, complemented by its reputation for safety and affordability.

Negative Aspects

Hoi An’s modest size, while charming, restricts the diversity of activities.

 


B. Best Things to Do in Hoi An in 2025 (Detailed List with Photos and Information)

In total, we count more than thirty sights in the charming town of Hoi An. The following sights and attractions contribute to a score of 5.05/10 in this most important category:

# HISTORICAL CENTRE 7 3.5 out of 5 stars

Hoi An's Historical Centre is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, showcasing well-preserved architecture and a blend of Vietnamese, Chinese, and Japanese cultural influences, dating back to its time as a bustling trading port in the 15th century.

Its pedestrian-friendly streets and atmospheric lantern displays make it a hub of both cultural heritage and modern tourism.

City District 🌍 World Heritage Site: since 1999

by Sznyr / CC BY-SA 4.0

# JAPANESE BRIDGE-PAGODA 6 3.1 out of 5 stars

The Japanese Bridge-Pagoda (Chùa Cầu), built in the 16th century, is a wooden icon of Hoi An, reflecting Japanese craftsmanship with its ornate carvings, tiled roof, and a small Buddhist shrine in the middle.

Wooden Bridge 🌍 World Heritage Site: since 1999

by Steffen Schmitz (Carschten) / CC BY-SA 4.0

# Hoi An Market 6 3.1 out of 5 stars

Hoi An Market is a vibrant riverside hub offering fresh produce, spices, and handicrafts alongside bustling food stalls where local dishes such as cao lầu and banh xeo are prepared.

Market

by Ekrem Canli / CC BY-SA 3.0

 

# Fukian Assembly Hall 5 2.5 out of 5 stars

Established in the late 17th century, the Fukian Assembly Hall (also known as Phuc Kien) exemplifies classical Chinese architecture with intricate carvings, vibrant ceramic dragons, and a sacred courtyard, dedicated to the sea goddess Thien Hau.

Assembly Hall

by Dalbera / CC BY-SA 1.0

 

# Cantonese Assembly Hall 4 2 out of 5 stars

Built by Chinese merchants, this 19th-century gem features intricate wood carvings, colorful ceramics, and a dragon-adorned courtyard showcasing Hoi An’s multicultural trade history.

19th-Century Cultural and Religious Hub

by Mstyslav Chernov / CC BY-SA 3.0

 

# Ba Mu Temple Gates (Tam Quan) 4 2 out of 5 stars

The Ba Mu Temple Gates, with their striking three-arch design, serve as a symbolic gateway to Hoi An’s spiritual and architectural heritage, blending traditional Vietnamese and Buddhist styles. Though the temple itself no longer exists, the gates stand as an evocative reminder of local devotion and artistry.

Temple Gates

by RG72 / CC BY-SA 4.0

# Quan Cong Temple 4 2 out of 5 stars

Dedicated to Quan Cong, a legendary Chinese general symbolizing loyalty and justice, this 17th-century temple boasts ornate altars, delicate calligraphy, and vibrant lanterns. It remains an active place of worship and a testament to Hoi An’s historical connection to Chinese culture.

Temple

by Franzfoto / CC BY-SA 3.0

 

# Museum of Trade Ceramics 4 2 out of 5 stars

Located in a restored 19th-century wooden house, the museum’s collection illustrates how ceramics shaped economic and cultural links along the maritime Silk Road.

Museum

by Steffen Schmitz (Carschten) / CC BY-SA 4.0

 

# Museum of History and Culture 4 2 out of 5 stars

Housed in a former pagoda from the 17th century, the Museum of History and Culture chronicles Hoi An's evolution as a bustling trading port, featuring ancient artifacts, pottery, and historical documents.

City Museum  

by Mztourist / CC BY-SA 4.0

 

#10 | Phung Hung House 4 2 out of 5 stars

Over 200 years old, the Phung Hung House reflects Hoi An's fusion of Vietnamese, Chinese, and Japanese architectural styles, with its elevated wooden structure designed to withstand flooding.

House

by Khương Việt Hà, Public domain

 

Scoring and Icons Legend (Click here for detailed information)

10 = top-10 sight in the world

9 = world-class  

8 = outstanding

7 = excellent 

6 = impressive

5 = interesting

4 = decent

3 = mediocre

2 = bad

1 = abysmal

🌎 = World Heritage Site

= Excursion

C. Other Notable Sights and Attractions in Hoi An

#11 | An Bang Beach 4 2 out of 5 stars

An Bang Beach is a serene getaway featuring soft sands, turquoise waters, and a lively atmosphere with beachside bars and seafood restaurants.

Beach

by dronepicr / CC BY-SA 2.0

#12 | Trieu Chau Assembly Hall 4 2 out of 5 stars

This Assembly Hall, known for its elegant architecture and exquisite woodwork, was built in 1845 to honor the sea deity, helping protect merchants on their maritime journeys. Its vibrant murals and serene courtyards illustrate the traditions of the Teochew community in Hoi An.

Temple

by Hungpq0904 / CC BY-SA 3.0

– Hoi An Night Market 4 2 out of 5 stars

The Hoi An Night Market dazzles with its lantern-lit streets, offering an array of local delicacies, handmade crafts, and traditional souvenirs.

Night Market

– Hoi An Lune Center 4 2 out of 5 stars

This modern cultural venue is renowned for its contemporary architecture and vibrant performances showcasing Vietnamese art, music, and storytelling. Located along the Thu Bon River, it offers world-class theatrical productions, blending traditional heritage with innovative stagecraft.

Cultural Venue

– Tan Ky House 4 2 out of 5 stars

Tan Ky House, a two-century-old merchant home, exemplifies traditional Vietnamese architecture with Chinese and Japanese decorative elements, preserved by seven generations of the same family.

Traditional House

– Tran Family Chapel 4 2 out of 5 stars

The Tran Family Chapel, built in the early 19th century, is a sacred ancestral house featuring Chinese-style architecture, delicate woodwork, and artifacts that narrate the Tran family’s storied past.

Chapel | Traditional House

D. Best Day Trips and Excursions from Hoi An

MY SON (Mỹ Sơn) 6 3.1 out of 5 stars

Located 40 km southwest of Hoi An, My Son Sanctuary is a UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring ancient Hindu temples built by the Champa civilization between the 4th and 14th centuries. These temples, surrounded by lush forests, represent a rich blend of spirituality and Champa architectural brilliance.

Bay 🌏 World Heritage Site: since 1999 | Distance from Hoi An: 40 km 

by Sznyr / CC BY-SA 4.0

 

Marble Mountains 5 2.5 out of 5 stars

Located 20 km north of Hoi An, the Marble Mountains are a cluster of limestone and marble hills dotted with Buddhist sanctuaries, caves, and panoramic viewpoints. Known for their spiritual significance and marble craftsmanship, they are a blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage.

Mountains  Distance from Hoi An: 20 km north

by Viethavvh / Public domain  

CHAM ISLANDS 5 2.5 out of 5 stars

Situated 18 km offshore from Hoi An, the Cham Islands are a pristine marine reserve with lush forests, coral reefs, and charming fishing villages, offering insights into local coastal life and diverse ecosystems. Recognized as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, it’s an ideal spot for snorkeling and eco-tourism.

Island House 🌍 World Heritage Site: since 2009 |  Distance from Hoi An: 18 km

by Robert Quan / CC BY-SA 4.0  

E. Top 10 List of the Best Things to Do in Hoi An (including close-by excursions)

To sum things up, these are the ten best sights we recommend to you when visiting Hoi An for at least three entire days:

🌏 HISTORICAL CENTRE 7 

🌏 JAPANESE BRIDGE-PAGODA 6 

🌏  MY SON (40 km away) 6 

Hoi An Market 6 

Fukian Assembly Hall 5

Marble Mountains (20 km away) 5

 🌏  CHAM ISLANDS (18 km away) 5 

Cantonese Assembly Hall 4

Ba Mu Temple Gates (Tam Quan) 4

Quan Cong Temple 4