We’ve crafted the perfect guide for 3 days in Hoi An that covers every essential experience, from the ancient town to the tranquil countryside. Plus, we’ve included flexible options whether you have just one day or a luxurious five, ensuring you make the most of your journey.
Table of Contents
The Ultimate 3 Days in Hoi An: A Perfect Blend of Experiences
Day 1: Ancient Town Charm & Lantern-Lit Nights
Morning: A Gentle Stroll Through History
Start your day by wandering through the car-free streets of the Ancient Town as the morning sun casts a golden hue on the iconic yellow walls. Let yourself get lost in the peaceful alleyways and soak in the timeless atmosphere.
Hoi An is famous for its charming coffee shops. Find one tucked under a vibrant canopy of flowers or choose a rooftop café to sip your coffee while watching the town wake up below.
After your coffee break, head to the Japanese Covered Bridge, the undisputed symbol of Hoi An. From there, continue to the Tan Ky Old House to admire a beautifully preserved merchant’s home, offering a glimpse into life centuries ago.
If time permits, visit the Fujian (Phuc Kien) Assembly Hall, an ornate temple founded by Chinese merchants from the Fujian province.
Afternoon: Sun, Sand, and Seafood
Escape the midday heat and head to the coast. Both An Bang Beach and Cua Dai Beach are fantastic options. Settle into a beachfront restaurant, enjoy a fresh seafood lunch, and spend the afternoon swimming and sunbathing.
Evening: A Fairytale of Lights and Flavors
Return to the Ancient Town for a culinary adventure. You can’t leave without trying Hoi An’s signature dishes. Head to Phan Chu Trinh street for delicious Com Ga (Chicken Rice) or Hai Ba Trung street for delicate White Rose Dumplings.
As darkness falls, the town transforms into a mesmerizing tapestry of light. Stroll through the lantern-lit streets and browse the famous express tailor shops on Tran Hung Dao or Le Loi street. It’s a unique experience to get a custom-made outfit in just a day!
Cross the bridge to the Nguyen Hoang Night Market. Afterwards, find a cozy bar along the river on Nguyen Phuc Chu street for a relaxing cocktail to cap off your perfect first day.
Day 2: Authentic Culture and Countryside Adventures
Morning: The World’s Best Banh Mi & A Green Escape
Today starts with a true Vietnamese icon: the Banh Mi. Head to legendary spots like Banh Mi Phuong or Madam Khanh for what many call the best sandwich in the world.
Rent a bicycle or a scooter and ride out to the serene Tra Que Vegetable Village. Here, you can watch local farmers at work, join a hands-on “farmer for a day” experience, or even take a fun cooking class to learn the secrets of Hoi An’s cuisine.
Afternoon: The Art of Pottery
Continue your journey to Thanh Ha Pottery Village. Witness the traditional craft of pottery-making and try your own hand at the potter’s wheel to create a unique souvenir.
Evening: Local Delicacies and Beach Vibes
For dinner, seek out an authentic local eatery like Mr Hai (Ong Hai) on Truong Minh Luong street for a bowl of Mi Quang (Quang Noodles) or Cao Lau—two dishes that define the region’s cuisine.
Make your way to An Bang Beach, where lively bars and live music create an energetic and fun atmosphere. Enjoy the cool sea breeze with a cocktail in hand.
Day 3: Natural Wonders and a Show of Memories
Morning & Lunch: The Coconut Forest
Journey to the Bay Mau Coconut Forest for a completely different experience. Hop into a traditional round basket boat and navigate the palm-fringed waterways. Be sure to watch the incredible boat-spinning performance by the skilled local rowers!
Enjoy lunch at one of the eco-restaurants within the forest, savoring rustic dishes made from fresh, local ingredients.
Afternoon & Evening: Ancient Ruins and a Grand Finale
Take a trip to My Son Sanctuary, a stunning UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring ancient Cham temples nestled in a lush valley. The late afternoon sun, or “golden hour,” is the most magical time to capture breathtaking photos.
Return to Hoi An for the perfect end to your trip: the spectacular Hoi An Memories Show. This grand outdoor performance, featuring hundreds of actors, beautifully recounts the 400-year history of this charming port town. It’s a must-see.
How to Customize Your Hoi An Itinerary
Only Have 1 or 2 Days in Hoi An?
A 1 day in Hoi An itinerary should be dedicated entirely to the Ancient Town. Follow the Day 1 plan to absorb the history, culture, and magic of this UNESCO site. You can truly have a wonderful day in Hoi An this way.
A 2 days in Hoi An itinerary is perfect for combining the best of both worlds. Use Day 1 for the Ancient Town and Day 2 for the countryside and cultural experiences. And finally in day-2 will be Hoi An Memories Show.
Want to Explore More? This itinerary is a fantastic starting point, but Hoi An has so much more to offer! If you want to discover even more hidden gems, unique tours, and exciting activities, be sure to read our ultimate guide on the best things to do in Hoi An.
Have More Time? Your 4 or 5 Day Hoi An Itinerary
For a 4 days in Hoi An itinerary, add an island escape. Dedicate your fourth day to a trip to the Cham Islands, a world biosphere reserve. Join a tour for snorkeling or diving among vibrant coral reefs, relax on pristine white-sand beaches, and experience the simple life of the island’s fishing villages.
For a 5 days in Hoi An itinerary, embrace slow living. Your fifth day is for unwinding. Discover the stunning rice field cafes in the Cam Chau area, wander aimlessly through the alleys one last time, or simply find a quiet spot to read a book and reflect on your incredible journey.
Other Essential Tips for Your Trip
Best Time to Visit: The dry season, from February to August, is ideal with sunny skies and pleasant weather.
Getting Around: The Ancient Town is walkable. For longer distances, renting a bicycle or scooter is popular and affordable. Grab/taxis are also widely available.
Where to Stay: Choose a homestay in the Ancient Town for charm, a resort near An Bang Beach for relaxation, or a villa overlooking the rice paddies for tranquility.
Souvenirs to Buy: Silk lanterns, leather goods, custom-tailored clothing, and local snacks are excellent choices.
Visiting during the Rainy Season? Don’t let a little rain stop you! The wet season (typically October to February) brings a different, more poetic charm to Hoi An. The quiet, reflective streets and cozy cafes are perfect for a relaxing getaway. For a complete guide on how to make the most of your trip, check out our article on visiting Hoi An in the rainy season.
Conclusion
Whether you have one day or five, Hoi An is a destination that will leave a lasting impression. This 3-day itinerary offers a complete and fulfilling blueprint to experience the very best of its culture, history, and natural beauty.
Now, you’re all set for an amazing adventure. What are you most excited to experience in Hoi An? Share your thoughts in the comments below!