Welcome to Hoi An, Vietnam's jewel of the central coast! Known for its well-preserved Ancient Town, stunning lantern-lit streets, and rich cultural diversity, Hoi An is a must-visit destination for travelers. This enchanting city, a UNESCO World Heritage site, offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Whether you're a history buff, a foodie, or someone looking to relax on pristine beaches, Hoi An has something for everyone. Let's embark on a journey to explore the charm and allure of this captivating town.
Population: Approximately 152,000 in 2018.
Economy: The city’s economy is based mostly on tourism and is a well-preserved example of history and culture of Southeast-Asia.
Landmarks: Hoi An Ancient Town, Japanese Covered Bridge, and My Son Sanctuary.
Vietnam
Hoi An's history dates back over 2,000 years. It thrived as a significant Southeast Asian commerce port from the 15th to the 19th centuries. Traders from China, Japan, and Europe left a lasting impact on its architecture and culture. Walking through the narrow, winding streets of the Ancient Town, you'll notice the blend of Chinese temples, Japanese merchant houses, and French colonial buildings. Each building conveys a tale about the city's multicultural history as the town's architecture reflects the religious and cultural traditions brought by Chinese merchants.
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Hoi An, located in central Vietnam, has a population of around 120,000 people. This charming town is known for its well-preserved Ancient Town and vibrant cultural heritage, attracting visitors from all over the world. Despite its small size, Hoi An's community is diverse, with a rich mix of cultural influences from its history as a major trading port. The friendly and welcoming locals contribute significantly to the town's unique charm and appeal. Engaging with locals offers a glimpse into their daily lives and traditions.
Hoi An Ancient Town at night - © Patrick Pellegrini
Hoi An is brimming with attractions that cater to all interests. The Ancient Town, a labyrinth of historic lanes and alleys, is the heart of Hoi An. Stroll through its pedestrian-friendly streets, where each turn exposes a little of history.
Japanese Covered Bridge - © Marina Lobato
Hoi An's cuisine is a delight for any foodie. The city's iconic dishes reflect its rich cultural heritage and are a must-try for any visitor.
Are you in love with the freshness of Vietnamese dishes? Learn more about the unique dishes in other places in Central Vietnam here.
Hoi An Chicken Rice (Com Ga Hoi An) - © VnExpress
The colorful festivals in Hoi An highlight the city's rich cultural legacy and civic spirit. These events provide a unique peek into local customs and unforgettable experiences for tourists.
Held on the 14th day of every lunar month, the Lantern Festival transforms Hoi An into a magical wonderland. Thousands of multicolored lanterns light up the streets, as villagers release floating lanterns into the Thu Bon river. Traditional music, dance performances, and games add to the festive atmosphere.
This holiday, held in September or October, is a time for family reunions and harvest celebrations. Children parade through the streets with lanterns shaped like animals and stars, while dragon and lion dances bring energy to the celebrations. Mooncakes, a traditional treat, are shared among friends and family.
Tet is Vietnam's most important celebration of the year. Hoi An, together with other regions in the country, also considers it as a major event. The town is decorated with flowers, and families prepare special foods to welcome the new year. Lion dances, fireworks, and traditional ancestor rites are all part of the festivities.
Similar to the Lantern Festival, this monthly event involves turning off electric lights and illuminating the Old Town with lanterns. It’s a beautiful and serene experience that highlights the town’s traditional charm.
Lantern Festival - © John McFetridge
Hoi An has a diverse choice of activities to suit a variety of interests, ensuring that every tourist has something to enjoy.
Shopping in Hoi An is a delightful experience, offering a mix of traditional crafts and modern goods. The town’s markets and shops are perfect for finding unique souvenirs and gifts.
Hoi An Street - © Hoi An Photographer
By understanding Hoi An's weather conditions and tourism trends, you can plan your trip to the city to align with your preferences, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable visit.
Autumn is also the best season to visit Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam. Learn more about what to do in Hanoi in our article here.
Raining season in Hoi An - © Phú Nguyễn Đạt
Understanding and respecting local customs and etiquette will enhance your experience in Hoi An and help you connect with the community more meaningfully.
Getting around Hoi An is easy and convenient, with several transportation options available. The Ancient Town is best explored on foot, allowing you to soak in the ambiance and discover hidden gems at a leisurely pace. Renting a bicycle is popular, with many hotels and guesthouses offering bike rentals for exploring the town and surrounding countryside. For those looking to cover more ground, motorbike rentals are a great option, but ensure you have the necessary license and always wear a helmet. Traditional taxis and ride-hailing services like Grab are readily available for longer trips or when carrying luggage. Additionally, exploring Hoi An by boat provides a unique perspective, with boat rides on the Thu Bon River or hiring a sampan to visit nearby islands.
Boat riding in Hoi An - © Hoi An Photographer 호이안 사진 촬영
Hoi An offers a range of banking services to ensure visitors can manage their finances smoothly during their stay. ATMs are widely available throughout the town, especially in the Ancient Town area, and major international cards are accepted, making it easy to withdraw Vietnamese Dong (VND). Various banks provide services such as currency exchange and international money transfers. You can exchange foreign currency at banks, authorized exchange counters, or at the airport, while avoiding street vendors to ensure a fair rate. Credit cards are accepted in most hotels, restaurants, and larger shops, though it’s advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments and street vendors.
Hoi An offers a diverse range of accommodation options to suit various preferences and budgets, ensuring a comfortable stay for every traveler. Luxury seekers can enjoy high-end resorts with world-class amenities, including beachfront locations, spa services, and gourmet dining. For a more personalized experience, boutique hotels in or near the Ancient Town provide unique decor and easy access to main attractions. Budget travelers will find a variety of hostels that offer clean, comfortable accommodations and communal spaces for socializing.
Tucked away in Sri Lanka’s southeastern corner, Yala National Park is where wild nature meets deep tradition. Known worldwide for its leopard population, the park is also home to elephants, sloth bears, crocodiles, and hundreds of bird species. Beyond wildlife, Yala opens doors to a cultural landscape dotted with ancient temples, Buddhist ruins, and coastal villages. For travelers seeking more than just a safari, Yala offers a chance to explore eco-tourism, local communities, and sacred heritage sites.
Population: The Yala National Park area doesn’t have a human population.
Economy: The economy around Yala National Park thrives on a blend of eco-tourism, agriculture, and local services. Safari tours, eco-lodges, and cultural experiences drive steady income for nearby towns like Tissamaharama and Kataragama, supporting thousands of families.
Landmarks: Famous for Block I of Yala and wildlife encounters, including elephants, sloth bears, crocodiles, and exotic bird species.
Nestled on Sri Lanka’s southern coastline, Galle is a vibrant city where history meets the sea. Its cobbled streets, colonial architecture, and serene beaches make it a must-visit destination for travelers seeking a blend of culture, adventure, and relaxation. A UNESCO World Heritage site, Galle captivates visitors with its Dutch Fort, bustling markets, and friendly locals. Whether you’re exploring the ramparts at sunset or savoring fresh seafood by the shore, Galle promises an unforgettable journey into Sri Lanka’s heritage.
Population: Approximately 113,000 in 2023.
Economy: Galle’s economy thrives on tourism, trade, and fisheries. The city’s historic fort, colonial architecture, and coastal charm draw thousands of international visitors each year, making tourism its main economic driver. Fishing remains vital for local livelihoods, supplying fresh seafood across the region.
Landmarks: Famous for the Galle Fort, Dutch Reformed Church & Maritime Museum, and Unawatuna Beach.
Nestled along Sri Lanka’s southwestern coast, Bentota is a tropical paradise that blends golden beaches, vibrant culture, and thrilling adventures. Famous for its calm waters, luxury resorts, and scenic river estuary, Bentota has become a top destination for travelers seeking both relaxation and authentic experiences. From serene beach walks at sunrise to adrenaline-pumping water sports, this coastal town offers a perfect balance of leisure and exploration. With its proximity to Colombo and Galle, Bentota is easy to reach, making it an ideal stop for both short escapes and extended holidays.
Population: Approximately 37,000 in 2023.
Economy: Bentota’s economy thrives mainly on tourism, which drives local businesses such as hotels, restaurants, and wellness retreats. The town also benefits from fishing, coconut cultivation, and handicrafts like wood carving and batik textiles. Many residents rely on the growing demand for water sports and Ayurvedic treatments, making tourism the backbone of both income and employment in the area.
Landmarks: Famous for Bentota Beach, Bentota River Safari, and Kande Vihara Temple.
Mirissa is a charming coastal town on Sri Lanka’s southern shoreline. Known for its golden beaches, turquoise waters, and vibrant marine life, it has become a must-visit stop for travelers exploring the island. Many come for whale watching, surfing, and sunset views at Coconut Tree Hill, but Mirissa offers much more than postcard beauty. The fishing boats you see anchored by the bay carry generations of stories. Local traditions, delicious cuisine, and a laid-back rhythm of life shape every visitor’s experience.
Population: Approximately 4,700 in 2023.
Economy: Mirissa’s economy is largely shaped by its coastal location. Fishing has long been the backbone of local livelihoods, with generations relying on the Indian Ocean for income. In recent decades, tourism has become the main driver of growth, thanks to whale watching, surfing, and beachside hospitality.
Landmarks: Famous for Mirissa Beach, Coconut Tree Hill, and Parrot Rock Bridge.
Tucked away in the Central Highlands of Sri Lanka, Nuwara Eliya is often called “Little England”. With its rolling tea plantations, cool misty mornings, and colonial charm, this mountain town feels like a step into another world. Travelers come here to breathe fresh air, walk through flower gardens, sip the finest Ceylon Tea, and enjoy a pace of life far from the island’s busy cities. Whether you’re drawn by scenic landscapes, heritage architecture, or the warmth of its people, Nuwara Eliya is a destination that blends nature, culture, and history in perfect harmony.
Population: Approximately 781,000 in 2023.
Economy: Nuwara Eliya’s economy thrives mainly on tea production, as it sits in the heart of Sri Lanka’s central highlands, famous worldwide for Ceylon Tea. The city also benefits from a growing tourism industry, attracting visitors with its colonial charm, cool climate, and scenic landscapes.
Landmarks: Famous for Gregory Lake, Hakgala Botanical Garden, and Victoria Park.
Nestled on the banks of the Kinabatangan River in Sabah, Malaysian Borneo, Sukau is a destination where wildlife, culture, and conservation come together. Known as one of Asia’s top spots for river safaris and eco-tourism, this quiet village offers a front-row seat to encounters with Bornean orangutans, pygmy elephants, proboscis monkeys, and exotic birdlife.
Population: Approximately 1,400 in 2019.
Economy: Sukau’s economy is shaped by its riverine location and natural resources. Traditionally, the Orang Sungai community relied on fishing, small-scale farming, and forest gathering for their livelihood. Today, the village has shifted toward eco-tourism, with river cruises, jungle trekking, and homestays providing income.
Landmarks: Famous for the Kinabatangan River cruises, Gomantong Caves, and Ox-bow lakes and wetlands.