Travel to Hoi An independently: Essential checklist

If you’re planning a travel to Hoi An independently, make sure to prepare thoroughly for the best experience. Hoi An is not only famous for its ancient beauty but also an ideal destination for those who love to explore culture and cuisine. Below is a checklist of what you need to know to have a perfect trip, from transportation, accommodation choices, to exciting attractions and culinary delights.

1. Prepare before you travel to Hoi An

Before embarking on your independent journey to Hoi An, thorough preparation will ensure a smooth and fulfilling trip. Here are the key steps to take to make your travel to Hoi An easy and enjoyable:

• Plan your itinerary: Determine the duration of your stay and the destinations you want to visit. A well-organized itinerary ensures you won’t miss out on important places.

• Book flights and accommodation early: If traveling during peak season (March to August), book your flights and accommodation early to get the best prices and avoid fully booked hotels.

• Pack appropriate clothing and accessories: Hoi An has a tropical climate with distinct dry and rainy seasons. Bring comfortable clothes, walking shoes, and hats for sun protection.

• Check the weather forecast: Make sure to check the weather forecast before your trip, especially if you’re traveling during the rainy season (September to December).

• Prepare cash and cards: Many shops and restaurants in Hoi An accept cards, but having some cash is useful for small purchases in markets and street food vendors.

To travel to Hoi An independently, prepare everything properly

2. Getting to and around Hoi An

Hoi An is located about 30 kilometers south of Da Nang, and you can easily get there by various means of transportation. Choosing the right way to travel not only saves time and money but also enhances your experience. Here’s how you can travel to Hoi An and explore the city’s beauty:

• By plane: Fly to Da Nang International Airport, and from there, you can take a taxi, bus, or rent a motorbike to reach Hoi An.

• By train: Train travel is a cost-effective option if you’re coming from Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, or nearby provinces. From Da Nang station, continue by bus or taxi to Hoi An.

• By bus: Sleeper buses are a popular choice for budget travelers, especially for night trips from Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City.

Getting around in Hoi An:

• Bicycle: Hoi An is a small town with narrow streets, perfect for exploring by bicycle. Many hotels and homestays offer free or low-cost bike rentals.

• Motorbike: If you want to explore further afield, like Cua Dai Beach, An Bang Beach, or Thanh Ha Pottery Village, a motorbike is the best option.

• Walking: The ancient town of Hoi An is compact and easy to explore on foot, allowing you to soak in the atmosphere and admire the charming old houses.

Exploring Hoi An by bicycle is an experience not to be missed

3. Must-see attractions in Hoi An

Hoi An is an amazing destination where you can experience a blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Don’t miss the opportunity to visit these must-see attractions, where each spot tells its own unique story:

• Hoi An ancient town: The old quarter, with its cobblestone streets, ancient houses, Japanese Bridge, and assembly halls, reflects a mix of Chinese, Japanese, and Vietnamese architecture, preserving the rich cultural heritage.

• Japanese covered bridge: A symbol of Hoi An, this bridge was built in the 17th century and features a unique blend of Japanese and Vietnamese design elements.

• Tan Ky and Phung Hung old houses: These ancient houses, preserved for hundreds of years, showcase unique architecture and interiors.

• Thanh Ha pottery village: Visit this traditional craft village, where you can make your own pottery and buy unique souvenirs.

• An Bang beach: One of Vietnam’s most beautiful beaches, with soft white sand and clear blue water, ideal for relaxing, swimming, and enjoying fresh seafood.

Japanese covered bridge

4. Hoi An cuisine: must-try dishes

When you travel to Hoi An, you won’t want to miss out on the city’s famous culinary delights. Here are some must-try local dishes that will give you a full taste of Hoi An’s unique flavors:

• Cao lau: A renowned dish with special noodles served with grilled pork, crispy pork skin, and fresh herbs.

• Mi Quang: Quang Nam’s signature noodle dish, with rich broth and crispy sesame crackers.

• Banh mi Phuong: Known as the world’s best banh mi, with a variety of fillings to choose from.

• Banh xeo: Crispy pancakes filled with shrimp, pork, and bean sprouts, served with fresh herbs and dipping sauce.

• Che bap: A sweet dessert made from sticky corn and coconut milk.

5. Exciting activities in Hoi An

Hoi An is rich in cultural experiences, allowing visitors to dive deeper into the traditions and unique character of this historic town. Here are some unmissable activities that will make your trip more memorable:

• Cooking classes: Learn how to cook Hoi An’s signature dishes with guidance from local chefs.

• Boat tour on the Thu Bon River: Enjoy a sunset cruise while exploring fishing villages along the river.

• Explore Hoi An night market: Sample street food and shop for unique handcrafted goods.

• Release lanterns on the Hoai River: A romantic evening activity, with colorful lanterns lighting up the river.

• Join local festivals: Hoi An often hosts traditional festivals like the Lantern Festival, giving you the chance to experience local culture.

Traveling independently to Hoi An will give you unforgettable experiences, from wandering the charming old streets, savoring the local cuisine, to participating in cultural activities. Be sure to plan in detail and get ready for an amazing adventure in Hoi An!

>>> See more: Tips for your own trip in Hoi An