Hoi An
Hoi An is a charming ancient town in central Vietnam, known for its well-preserved architecture, vibrant markets, and rich cultural heritage. Visitors can stroll through the well preserved historic Old Town, admire the iconic Japanese Bridge, and explore the town’s many shops, cafes, and restaurants. Hoi An is also famous for its traditional tailoring and local cuisine, as well as its lantern-lit atmosphere at night, making it a popular destination for shoppers, foodies, and culture lovers. The town’s historic charm and relaxed atmosphere add to its allure.
Highlights
Hoi An Old Town (UNESCO World Heritage Site)
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With more than 800 preserved old buildings the Old Town looks as it did centuries ago. Eighteen of these buildings (museums, assembly halls, ancient houses) are accessible via an ‘Old Town ticket’. Highlights include the Assembly Hall of the Cantonese Chinese Congregation founded in 1786; Tan Ky House with Chinese and Japanese influences; Quan Cong Temple founded in 1653 and dedicated to a Chinese general: and the Japanese Covered Bridge.
Japanese Covered Bridge
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This beautiful little bridge was constructed in the 1590’s by the Japanese community. The French modified the structure for cars but this was corrected in 1986. Despite its age much of the ornimentation remains original to the Japanese design.
Day trip to My Son Sanctuary (UNESCO World Heritage site)
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My Son Sanctuary is nestled in a valley surrounded by two mountain ranges that form the watershed of the Thu Bon River. The temple complex itself, surrounded by picturesque rice paddies and plains. This site features a complex of ancient Hindu temples built by the Champa civilization between the 4th and 14th centuries. There are impressive examples of Cham architecture, with intricate carvings, sculptures, and ruins that reflect the region’s rich cultural and spiritual heritage.
Countryside Bicycle Tour
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A bicycle tour to Cam Thanh Village will take you through the beautiful countryside of Hoi An, through stunning rice fields and picturesque villages. Meet a family and enjoy tea and a chance to learn about their way of life. Do as the locals do and go fishing on bamboo basket boats to catch crabs and fish. You can then learn how to cook some delicious local dishes then enjoy eating them over lunch. Even enjoy a local foot massage before cycling back to your hotel.
Cham Island – snorkelling trip
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The Cham Islands are a group of eight islands off the Hoi An coastline, known for their varied marine life, natural beauty and stunning beaches. You can head there on a day trip where you’ll have the chance to snorkel or dive in the protected reefs, sunbathe on the beach and then feast on a BBQ lunch. Some tours also include the chance to visit Cu Lao Cham Museum, Hai Tang pagoda and a seafood market.
An Bang Beach
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An Bang Beach is a picturesque coastal village known for its stunning 1.5 km stretch of pristine beach with powdery white sand and crystal-clear waters. The beach offers a relaxed and peaceful atmosphere,where you can enjoy water activities, fresh seafood, and experience the local culture by exploring the nearby village, which is famous for its beach shacks and laid-back vibe.
Marble Mountains
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The Marble Mountains, featuring five marble and limestone hills named after the five elements (Thuy Son (Water), Moc Son (Wood), Kim Son (Metal), Hoa Son (Fire), and Tho Son (Earth)), are both beautiful and have spiritual significance. You can explore ancient pagodas, intricate caves, and stunning viewpoints offering panoramic views of the city and coastline.
Sun World Ba Na Hills
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This resort complex offers a blend of natural beauty, culture, and entertainment, with stunning views of the surrounding mountains and forests. The complex features a range of attractions, including a scenic cable car ride (the only way to reach “Cau Vang” bridge (golden hand bridge), above), French-inspired villages, gardens, and amusement parks, as well as luxury resorts and dining options.
Tra Que Vegetable Village
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Tra Que Vegetable Village is a farm, where you can experience traditional farming practices and learn about local agricultural techniques. The village offers hands-on activities, such as planting and harvesting vegetables. You can also enjoy local specialties and take part in cooking classes, making it a great way to immerse oneself in rural Vietnamese culture.
Cookery class
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Pick fresh saw-tooth coriander and mint for your cooking lesson, then to the local village market and purchase a range of local ingredients, including star anise, cardamom, sesame rice paper, water spinach and banana flower.
At the Cooking School learn the traditional ways of cooking Vietnamese food from scratch. Using the freshest ingredients and traditional Vietnamese utensils cook 4 famous dishes, including the national dish ‘Pho’.
Hotels
Discover the wonderful variety of places to stay in Hoi An; including some of the most luxurious hotels in the world and intimate boutique hotels bursting with local character. The following are situated in the historic town:
And these are on the beach:
Tours
Below are a selection of our favourite sample itineraries that we have created based on our experiences of travelling extensively throughout Vietnam. As with all our tours, every aspect can be tailor-made to your individual requirements.
