How Many Days Should You Spend in Hoi An?

Hoi An, a UNESCO World Heritage town in central Vietnam, is known for its charming blend of ancient architecture, lantern-lit streets, riverside charm, and vibrant markets. It’s a place where history, culture, and relaxation coexist beautifully. But when planning a trip to Hoi An, one of the most common questions is: How many days should you spend in Hoi An?

The answer depends on your travel style, interests, and how much you want to explore. Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or simply looking for a relaxing getaway, we’ve put together a guide to help you decide the ideal length of stay for your visit to Hoi An.

1. A Quick Visit: 1 Day in Hoi An

If you’re pressed for time but still want to get a taste of Hoi An, a one-day trip can cover the highlights of this magical town. A day is just enough to explore the old town’s charm, enjoy local cuisine, and take in some of Hoi An’s famous cultural attractions.

What to Do in 1 Day:

Morning: Start with a walk through the Ancient Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Explore its well-preserved architecture, visit famous landmarks like the Japanese Covered Bridge and Assembly Halls, and take in the beauty of the old colonial buildings.
Afternoon: Enjoy a delicious lunch at one of Hoi An’s many local restaurants, followed by a stroll through the Central Market. Afterward, hop on a bike and explore the countryside or visit Tra Que Vegetable Village.
Evening: As the sun sets, take a stroll along the Thu Bon River, where Hoi An’s famous lanterns begin to light up the streets. Dine at a riverside restaurant and enjoy the magical view of lantern-lit boats floating on the river.

Who’s it for?

Travelers on a tight schedule.
Visitors looking for a quick taste of Hoi An’s culture and history.

2. A Relaxing Escape: 2-3 Days in Hoi An

For most travelers, 2 to 3 days is the perfect amount of time to experience the best of Hoi An. This allows you to explore the town at a relaxed pace, immerse yourself in its culture, and even take a day trip to the surrounding countryside or beaches.

Day 1: Explore Hoi An’s Ancient Town

Morning: Spend the morning visiting the historical sites of the Ancient Town. Explore the Fujian Assembly Hall, the Quan Cong Temple, and wander through the quaint alleys lined with colorful lanterns and local artisan shops.
Afternoon: Try a traditional Vietnamese cooking class or go on a food tour to sample the best of Hoi An’s street food, including famous dishes like Cao Lau and White Rose Dumplings.
Evening: Walk along the river and enjoy the lantern festival if your visit coincides with the lunar calendar, or join a boat ride to release lanterns into the river.

Day 2: Discover the Countryside and Beaches

Morning: Rent a bike or take a guided tour to the nearby countryside villages. Visit Tra Que Vegetable Village to learn about local farming, or head to the Thanh Ha Pottery Village to try your hand at pottery-making.
Afternoon: After your morning adventure, head to An Bang Beach for a relaxing afternoon by the sea. Enjoy the soft sand and calm waters, and have a leisurely seafood lunch at one of the beachside restaurants.
Evening: Return to town for dinner and explore more of the night market’s lively atmosphere.

Day 3: Culture and Craftsmanship

Morning: Take a trip to the My Son Sanctuary, a collection of ancient Hindu temples located about an hour outside of Hoi An. This UNESCO site is a must-visit for history and archaeology lovers.
Afternoon: Spend your final afternoon exploring Hoi An’s famous tailors or art galleries. Consider ordering tailor-made clothing, a popular souvenir from Hoi An, or picking up some locally-made handicrafts.

Who’s it for?

Travelers who want a relaxed but thorough experience of Hoi An’s culture, food, and surroundings.
Perfect for couples, families, or anyone looking to balance sightseeing with downtime at the beach.

An Immersive Stay: 4-5 Days in Hoi An

If you’re looking for a more immersive experience, spending 4 to 5 days in Hoi An allows you to explore the town in-depth while also enjoying the surrounding areas, such as the rural villages, nearby beaches, and local workshops.

Day 1 & 2: Ancient Town and Cultural Activities

Follow the same itinerary as the 2-3 day trip for your first two days, exploring the Ancient Town, taking cooking classes, and visiting the surrounding countryside.

Day 3: Day Trip to Da Nang or the Marble Mountains

Morning: Take a day trip to nearby Da Nang, where you can visit the famous Marble Mountains, explore the Lady Buddha at Linh Ung Pagoda, or relax on My Khe Beach.
Afternoon: Explore Da Nang’s museums or return to Hoi An to relax by the river and enjoy a leisurely lunch.
Evening: End the day by exploring more of Hoi An’s vibrant nightlife or taking part in a local cultural performance.

Day 4: Adventure and Nature

Morning: Take a trip to Cham Island for snorkeling, diving, or simply relaxing on the island’s beautiful beaches.
Afternoon: Spend your time hiking through the island’s tropical jungle or visiting local fishing villages.
Evening: Return to Hoi An and spend your evening exploring any attractions you may have missed, like the Hoi An Silk Village or the Phuoc Kien Assembly Hall.

Day 5: Leisurely Day

Morning: Enjoy a final morning exploring Hoi An’s quiet cafes, local boutiques, or take a wellness retreat with a spa day or yoga class.
Afternoon: End your trip with a final visit to your favorite spots in the Ancient Town or a boat cruise along the river.
Evening: Enjoy a farewell dinner at one of Hoi An’s many riverside restaurants, soaking in the magical atmosphere one last time.

Who’s it for?

Travelers who want to immerse themselves in Hoi An’s rich culture, natural beauty, and history.
Perfect for those who love to explore and take their time absorbing the atmosphere of a new destination.

Long Stay: 7+ Days in Hoi An

If you’re fortunate enough to have 7 days or more, Hoi An becomes the perfect base for exploring the wider central Vietnam region. You can truly immerse yourself in the slow-paced lifestyle, getting to know the local culture, enjoying nearby cities, and taking time for yourself with some relaxation on the beach or in the countryside.

What You Can Do in a Long Stay:

Take day trips to Hue and My Son.
Visit more remote countryside locations for an authentic look into local life.
Dedicate time to cooking courses, workshops, or learning Vietnamese.
Enjoy long days at the beach or in the nearby eco-resorts for ultimate relaxation.
Make Hoi An a base for working remotely, taking in the laid-back environment at your own pace.

Who’s it for?

Digital nomads or slow travelers.
Visitors who want to combine sightseeing with deep cultural exploration and downtime.
Perfect for those looking to get a deeper understanding of central Vietnam.

How Long Should You Spend in Hoi An? Final Thoughts

Hoi An offers something for everyone, whether you’re staying for a day, a few days, or an extended period. For most travelers, 2-3 days is the sweet spot, allowing time to experience the town’s highlights, explore the countryside, and even relax on the beach.

If you’re planning to visit Hoi An and are unsure about how long to stay, consider what kind of experience you’re looking for: a quick overview, a balanced cultural immersion, or a leisurely retreat. No matter how long you stay, Hoi An is sure to charm you with its timeless beauty, vibrant culture, and welcoming atmosphere.

Ready to explore Hoi An? Book your tour today and discover the magic of this enchanting town!