Hoi An, Vietnam: The Ultimate Travel Guide 2026

Hoi An offers a wonderfully diverse range of places to stay, and choosing the right area can make a big difference to your trip. The Ancient Town is the most atmospheric part of the city, perfect for travellers who want to be surrounded by lantern-lit streets, riverside cafés, and centuries-old merchant houses. Hotels here are usually boutique-style, set in restored heritage buildings or traditional wooden homes. If you want to stay in the middle of it all, options such as Little Riverside Hoi An place you steps from the Thu Bồn River, while Anantara Hoi An Resort offers a peaceful riverside retreat within easy walking distance of the Ancient Town’s main attractions. This area suits those who prefer to explore on foot, enjoy early-morning riverside strolls, and experience Hoi An’s charm from dawn till dusk.

Just across the water, An Hoi and the Night Market area offer a livelier atmosphere with street food stalls, bars, and colourful lantern displays each evening. This part of town is ideal for visitors who want to be close to the action without sacrificing comfort. Many hotels here have rooftop pools and river views, creating a balance between relaxation and vibrant nightlife. A solid option is Lantana Boutique Hotel Hoi An, known for its excellent location and friendly service. It’s a great choice for travellers who want quick access to the Ancient Town’s restaurants and markets while enjoying modern comforts in a contemporary setting.

If you’re after something more laid-back, Cẩm Thanh is a peaceful eco-friendly escape among coconut forests and waterways. This area suits nature-lovers, families, and couples looking to unwind away from the busier town centre. Resorts blend into the landscape with wooden villas, lakes, and expansive gardens, and staying here offers a serene retreat with activities like basket-boat rides and riverside cycling routes. A standout option is Hoi An Eco Lodge & Spa, where guests can enjoy quiet surroundings while still being within a short drive or bike ride of the Ancient Town. It’s an excellent base for travellers seeking a slower pace and a more rural side of Hoi An.

Cua Dai and An Bang Beach are the best areas if you want a beachfront stay, with long sandy shores, seafood restaurants, and calm coastal vibes. These areas are perfect for travellers who plan to spend a lot of time relaxing by the sea while still being close enough to cycle or taxi into the Ancient Town. Beach hotels range from charming boutique hideaways to upscale resorts with private beach access. A reliable choice along the coast is Victoria Hoi An Beach Resort & Spa, where guests enjoy a blend of French-colonial architecture and seaside tranquillity. Staying near the beach is ideal for families, honeymooners, and anyone who wants to combine cultural sightseeing with sunny downtime.

Using the our Hotel and Accomodation map, you can compare hotels and short-term rental accommodations in Hoi An. Simply insert your travel dates and group size, and you’ll see the best deals for your stay.

Getting to Hoi An by Air

The nearest airports: The closest gateway to Hoi An is Da Nang International Airport, located about 30 km away and offering extensive domestic connections from Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Da Lat, and Nha Trang, as well as international flights from major cities across Asia and seasonal routes from Europe and Australia.
The airport transfer options: Travellers can reach Hoi An via shuttle buses, private cars, taxis, and ride-hailing services, all of which provide a straightforward 45–60 minute journey depending on traffic.
The flight frequency: Da Nang is one of Vietnam’s busiest airports, ensuring frequent daily flights and smooth onward connections for most itineraries.
For the best deals and a seamless booking experience, check out these flights to Hoi An on Booking.com.

Getting to Hoi An by Train

The nearest major station: Hoi An does not have its own railway station; the nearest is Da Nang Railway Station, about 30 km away.
The rail line details: Da Nang sits on Vietnam's main North–South Reunification Line, which runs between Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, making it easy to reach from major hubs such as Hue, Nha Trang, Quy Nhon, and Phan Thiet.
The train frequency: Regular daily trains operate along this route, providing options ranging from standard seats to soft-sleeper cabins.
The onward transfer: After arriving in Da Nang, travellers can reach Hoi An by taxi, shuttle, private transfer, or local bus, with travel times typically between 45 minutes and one hour.
Train schedules and bookings can be found on Omio.

Getting to Hoi An by Car

The driving conditions: Good-quality highways and coastal roads make travelling to Hoi An by car convenient, especially for travellers coming from Da Nang, Hue, or further south along the coast.
The parking situation: Private cars cannot enter the pedestrianised Ancient Town, so visitors must use designated parking areas outside the heritage zone.
The road trip routes: Travellers coming from Hue often enjoy the scenic Hai Van Pass, while those from Da Nang have a short and straightforward drive via modern expressways or coastal roads.

Travelling Around Hoi An

The walking-friendly layout: Hoi An’s Ancient Town is compact and pedestrian-friendly, making walking the easiest way to explore its historic lanes, markets, and riverside views.
The cycling culture: Bicycles are a popular choice, with many hotels offering rentals and flat terrain making it ideal for rides to Tra Que Vegetable Village or An Bang Beach.
The ride-hailing and taxis: Grab taxis and local cabs are widely available for quick trips around town or out to beaches and surrounding villages.
The motorbike option: Renting a scooter provides flexibility for exploring rural roads, rice fields, and coastal routes, though traffic rules and comfort levels should be considered.