Hoi An Budget Travel Guide 2025: Explore Vietnam’s Lantern-Lit Historical Town

Hoi An, Vietnam’s lantern-lit UNESCO World Heritage town, is a destination where history and charm meet affordability. Once a bustling trading port, this ancient riverside city is now famous for its preserved architecture, colorful markets, and peaceful countryside. The best part? You can soak up Hoi An’s rich culture, taste incredible local food, and explore its timeless streets — all on a budget.

Best Time to Visit Hoi An

Hoi An is magical year-round, but each season offers something different:

• February – April (Dry & Sunny) → The best weather for sightseeing and beach trips. Expect pleasant temps (18–28°C / 64–82°F). This is peak season, so book early.
• May – July (Warm & Green) → Hotter days (up to 31°C / 88°F) with lush scenery. Great for beach lovers, but be ready for humidity.
• August – October (Budget-Friendly) → Fewer tourists and cheaper hotels. Afternoon rain showers are common, but the town feels quieter and more authentic.
• November – January (Cool & Festive) → Cooler weather (15–25°C / 59–77°F), ideal for walking tours and street food. Don’t miss the Lantern Festival or Full Moon celebrations.

👉 Pro Tip: Beach lovers should visit between February and July, while culture seekers will love autumn lantern festivals.

Getting Around Hoi An on a Budget

Hoi An is compact and budget-friendly, so exploring is half the fun:

• Walk the Old Town – It’s car-free, lantern-lit, and perfect for exploring historical sites and street food.
• Rent a Bicycle – For just $1–2/day, cycle through rice fields, villages, and down to A Bang Beach.
• Grab or Taxi – Use the Grab app (like Uber) for reliable rides outside Old Town. Always check meters for taxis. 🚲 Cyclo Ride – These three-wheel pedicabs are slower but scenic. Negotiate a price before hopping in.
• Motorbike Rental – Best if you want to explore further (like Marble Mountains or My Son). Make sure you have an international license.

👉 Quick Tips:

Stick to walking and cycling in the Old Town (eco-friendly + cheap). Always agree on fares before cyclo/taxi rides. If staying near An Bang or Cua Dai Beach, a bicycle or Grab makes getting around easy.

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Where To Stay In Hoi An

Hoi An has plenty of affordable hotels, guesthouses, and homestays — and the best area depends on whether you want to stay in the Old Town or near the beach. Here are the top neighborhoods:

1. Cẩm Phô (Old Town):
   Stay close to Hoi An’s lantern-lit streets and historic attractions. Great for foodies and first-time visitors.
   Recommended hotels: Son Trang Hotel Hoi An ~ Anh Family Homestay ~ Hoi An Vi Khoa Villa
2. Sơn Phong (Old Town):
   Near the Japanese Covered Bridge and Hoi An Ancient House Museum. Perfect for culture lovers.
   Recommended hotels are: Maison Hai Homestay ~ H Boutique Hoi An
3. Minh An (Old Town Riverside)
   Lively riverside area with easy access to Hoi A Market and Quan Cong Temple.
   Recommended hotels are: Green Sand Homestay ~ Homestay SONG THIỆN
4. Cẩm An (An Bang Beach)
   Quieter, laid-back vibe within walking distance to An Bang Beach restaurants and bars.
   Recommended hotels are: Bluesand Homestay ~ Sea Snails Homestay
5. Cửa Đại (Beachside):
   Ideal if you want a beach escape but still be just a short taxi or bike ride from the Old Town.
   Recommended hotels are: Phuoc Dat Rivetside Homestay Hoi An ~ Sands River Villa Hoi An

👉 Tip: Book early during high season (Feb–April, Nov–Jan). Agoda and Booking.com often have last-minute deals, but the best-rated homestays go fast.

Top 15 Things to Do in Hoi An

From lantern-lit streets to golden beaches, Hoi An is packed with unforgettable experiences. Here are the must-see attractions and activities:

1. Hoi An Ancient Town
   Wander the UNESCO World Heritage Old Town, famous for its preserved architecture, colorful lanterns, and charming cafes. Perfect for photos, shopping, and soaking up the city’s history.
2. Japanese Covered Bridge (Chùa Cầu)
   Hoi An’s most iconic landmark, built in the 18th century. Don’t miss the ornate carvings and the small temple inside.
3. Tan Ky Old House
   Step inside this 200-year-old merchant’s home to see a blend of Chinese, Japanese, and Vietnamese design. A glimpse into Hoi An’s trading past.
4. Thu Bon River Cruise
   Take a scenic boat ride at sunset for magical views of Hoi An’s riverside. Lantern boat rides are especially romantic in the evening.
5. An Bang Beach
   Just 15 minutes from town, this beach offers white sand, palm trees, and laid-back seaside restaurants. Great for sunbathing or cocktails by the water.
6. My Son Sanctuary
   A UNESCO site about an hour from Hoi An, featuring Hindu temples of the Champa Kingdom. Best visited in the early morning to avoid crowds and heat.
7. Cua Dai Beach
   A quieter alternative to A Bang, ideal for swimming, kayaking, and fresh seafood.
8. Relax in a Hoi An Café
   Cool off in one of Hoi An’s many charming coffee shops. Try strong Vietnamese drip coffee or a refreshing iced coconut coffee.
9. Cam Thanh Coconut Village
   Hop in a traditional basket boat and float through coconut palm waterways. Fun for families and eco-travelers.
10. Hoi An Impression Theme Park & Show
    A stunning outdoor performance that brings Hoi An’s history to life with dance, costumes, and lights. A must if you love culture shows.
11. Golden Bridge (Ba Na Hills)
    While technically near Da Nang, this famous “hands holding bridge” makes a perfect day trip. Expect epic mountain views and Insta-worthy shots.
12. Hoi An Night Market
    A lively market lit by hundreds of lanterns. Great for street food, souvenirs, and photos. Bargain politely for the best prices.
13. Hoi An Central Market
    A buzzing spot to sample local snacks, fresh produce, and seafood. Perfect if you want a taste of everyday local life.
14. Cycle the Countryside
    Rent a bike and ride through rice paddies and small villages. Stop for photos, meet locals, and enjoy the peaceful scenery.
15. Cham Islands & Snorkeling
    Take a day trip to these pristine islands for snorkeling, swimming, and fresh seafood. The coral reefs and marine life are spectacular.

👉 Pro Tip: Many of these can be done on a budget — walking the Old Town, cycling the countryside, exploring markets, and enjoying beaches are all free or very cheap.

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Must-Try Street Foods in Hoi An

Hoi An’s food scene is legendary, and some dishes can only be found here. Don’t leave without tasting these local specialties:

1. Cao Lầu: The signature dish of Hoi An. Thick noodles (made with water from an ancient Cham well), slices of pork, fresh herbs, and crunchy rice crackers in a light, savory broth. You won’t find authentic Cao Lầu anywhere else.
2. White Rose Dumplings (Bánh Bao Bánh Vạc): Delicate dumplings shaped like roses, usually filled with shrimp or pork. Served with a tangy dipping sauce, they’re a Hoi An-exclusive treat.
3. Mì Quảng: Central Vietnam’s famous noodle dish. Turmeric-infused broth with shrimp, pork, quail eggs, peanuts, and crispy rice crackers. Often eaten for breakfast but delicious any time of day.
4. Bánh Mì: Hoi An’s version of Vietnam’s iconic sandwich. A crispy baguette stuffed with pork, pate, herbs, pickled veggies, and spicy homemade chili sauce. (Pro tip: Try the world-famous Bánh Mì Phượng shop).
5. Cơm Gà (Chicken Rice): Fragrant rice cooked in chicken broth, topped with tender shredded chicken, fresh herbs, and pickled vegetables. Simple, light, and addictive.

👉 For even more foodie adventures, check out my full guide: Best Vietnamese Foods to Try.

Hoi An Coffee Culture

Coffee in Hoi An is more than just a drink—it’s part of daily life and a perfect excuse to slow down and soak in the town’s charm. Scattered throughout the Ancient Town are dozens of cozy cafés, each offering a unique twist on Vietnamese coffee.

• Vietnamese Iced Coffee (Cà phê sữa đá): Strong dark-roast coffee with sweetened condensed milk poured over ice—refreshing on hot days.
• Egg Coffee (Cà phê trứng): A creamy Hanoi invention now popular in Hoi An, made with whipped egg yolk and sugar—it’s like dessert in a cup.
• Coconut Coffee (Cà phê cốt dừa): A tropical blend of coconut milk and robust coffee, served over ice.
• Vietnamese Black Coffee (Cà phê đen): Bold, full-bodied, and brewed in a traditional drip filter—enjoy it strong or add condensed milk.

Whether you sip by the riverside or in a hidden courtyard café, coffee in Hoi An is best enjoyed slowly, between exploring the town’s lantern-lit streets and historic sites.

Evenings in Hoi An

Hoi A doesn’t have an all-night party scene, but its evenings are some of the most magical in Vietnam. From sunset until around 10pm, the Ancient Town comes alive with lanterns, street food, and a buzzing yet laid-back energy.

• Riverside Dining: Restaurants and cafés along the Thu Bon River offer romantic views of lanterns reflecting on the water, plus fresh seafood and Vietnamese specialties.
• Night Markets: Bustling stalls sell handicrafts, souvenirs, and street food favorites like banh mi and cao lầu. The festive glow of lanterns makes for a memorable evening stroll.
• Lantern Festival: On the 14th day of each lunar month, thousands of colorful lanterns fill the streets, traditional performances take place, and floating candles light up the river.
• Cozy Bars & Live Music: Instead of clubs, you’ll find mellow rooftop bars and intimate pubs with acoustic sets and cocktails—perfect for winding down the night.

By 10pm most of the town quiets down, leaving a peaceful atmosphere. Hoi An’s evenings are less about late-night partying and more about savoring food, culture, and the enchanting glow of lanterns.

3-Day Hoi An Itinerary: Explore History, Culture & Food

Day 1: Discover Hoi An Ancient Town

Stroll through Hoi An Ancient Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and admire the lantern-lit streets, traditional architecture, and riverside charm. Visit the Japanese Covered Bridge (Chùa Cầu) and explore Tan Ky Old House to get a glimpse of the city’s rich trading history.

Take a relaxing Thu Bon River boat ride, spotting local life along the banks and enjoying scenic countryside views. Snack your way through the Hoi An Night Market, trying local street food like Cao Lầu and Bánh Mì.

Enjoy a peaceful riverside dinner at a lantern-lit café. Listen to live music in cozy bars or rooftop cafés—Hoi An’s evening charm peaks before 10pm.

Day 2: Beaches & Cultural Highlights

Soak up the sun at An Bang Beach, perfect for swimming or relaxing on soft sand. Explore My Son Sanctuary, an ancient Hindu temple complex and UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Paddle through Cam Thanh Coconut Village on a traditional basket boat, learning local fishing techniques and eco-friendly practices. Enjoy a light lunch at Hoi An Central Market and sample fresh Vietnamese specialties.

Stroll the lantern-lit streets of Ancient Town or riverside paths for evening photography and atmosphere.

Day 3: Islands & Countryside Adventures

Take a day trip to Cham Islands for snorkeling, swimming, and relaxing on pristine beaches.

Cycle through Hoi An’s countryside, passing lush rice paddies, coconut groves, and traditional villages. Finish your trip with a visit to the Golden Hands Bridge near Ba Na Hills for panoramic mountain views.

Tip: This 3-day itinerary balances history, culture, food, and nature, giving you a complete Hoi An experience—from ancient streets to serene beaches and vibrant local markets.

Vietnam Travel Essentials

Visa Requirements: Most travelers can apply online for a 30-day E-Visa. Check the latest rules on the official Vietnam Visa website.

Travel Insurance: Unexpected events happen. We recommend SafetyWing for affordable coverage that includes medical care, lost luggage, and flight delays.

Internet & SIM Cards: Vietnam has reliable Wi-Fi in most hotels and cafés. For mobile data, buy a local SIM at the airport, convenience stores, or order a Vietnam eSIM online before your trip.

Electricity & Plugs: Vietnam uses 220V with plug types A, C, D, and G. A universal travel adapter handy to keep your devices charged.

*As an Amazon, Agoda, Klook, and TravelGuide Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

Conclusion

Hoi An is a city that effortlessly blends history, culture, and flavor. Stroll through the lantern-lit streets of the UNESCO-listed Ancient Town, discover centuries-old temples and merchant houses, and savor the unique tastes of Hoi An street food—from cao lầu to white rose dumplings. Whether you’re exploring historic sites, cycling through lush rice paddies, or relaxing by the beach, Hoi An offers something for every traveler. Plan your visit and immerse yourself in the charm, colors, and culinary delights of this unforgettable Vietnamese town.