H I an Vietnam 2 Day Itinerary

Hội An: A 2-Day Itinerary for Exploring this Charming Town

This itinerary focuses on experiencing the best of Hoi An’s charm in a short timeframe. It’s packed with cultural experiences and delicious food, catering to the typical interests of tourists.

Day 1: Culture & History

  • Morning:

    • Arrive in Da Nang (DAD) and transfer to Hoi An (approx. 30 minutes from the airport).
    • Things to know:
      • Weather: Hoi An has a tropical climate with hot, humid weather year-round. Be prepared for rain during the rainy season (September - February).
      • Language: Vietnamese is the official language, but English is widely spoken in tourist areas.
      • Currency: The Vietnamese Dong (VND) is the official currency, but US dollars are also accepted.

  • Activity:

    • Explore the charming ancient town of Hoi An. Wander through the narrow streets, admire the colorful architecture, and browse the local shops selling everything from silk lanterns to tailor-made clothing.
    • Tip: Don’t miss the iconic Japanese Covered Bridge, a symbol of Hoi An.

  • Lunch: Enjoy a traditional Vietnamese lunch at Morning Glory Restaurant. This local favorite is known for its authentic cuisine and charming atmosphere.

  • Afternoon:

    • Activity: Immerse yourself in the rich history of Hoi An by visiting historical landmarks like the Ancient House (Phuong Tay Ho Chi Minh Museum) or the Chinese Assembly Halls, which showcase the city’s unique architectural heritage and cultural influences.

  • Things to know: Many of the historic buildings are now museums, shops, or restaurants, so you can combine history with delicious food in this beautiful town.

    • Restaurant Tip: For a more local experience, try Banh Mi Phuong for some of the best banh mi in Hoi An, or Cao Lau Hoi An, a famous dish unique to this area.

  • Dinner: Dine on delicious street food at the Hoi An Night Market. This bustling market is a great place to sample local delicacies like Cao Lau (a noodle dish with pork and vegetables) and Mi Quang (another local noodle dish).

  • Hotel Recommendation:

    • For a luxurious stay in a tranquil setting, consider The Victoria Hoi An Beach Resort & Spa for its beautiful beachfront location and stunning views.
    • If you’re on a budget or looking for a more affordable option, Faifo I Love You Hostel offers comfortable dorms and private rooms with a social atmosphere.

Day 2: Relaxation & Culture (Hội An)

  • Morning: Start your day with a relaxing bike ride through the rice paddies.

  • Activity:

  • Morning Glory Restaurant: Enjoy a delicious breakfast of traditional Vietnamese dishes.

  • Bike Tip: Rent a bike from one of the many shops in Hoi An and explore the countryside on your own terms.

  • Restaurant Tip: For a more upscale experience, try The Deck House for their innovative take on Vietnamese cuisine and breathtaking views of the Thu Bon River.

Day 2: Hoi An Cooking Class & Beach Time

  • Morning:
    • Take a cooking class at one of the many cooking schools in Hoi An. Learn to make delicious Vietnamese dishes like pho, spring rolls, or banh xeo (crispy Vietnamese pancakes) and enjoy your creations for lunch!
  • Activity:
    • Afternoon: Relax on An Bang Beach.

This is just a basic framework. You can customize it based on your interests and budget. For example:

  • History buffs might want to spend more time visiting the various historical sites and museums in Hoi An’s Old Town.

  • Foodies could indulge in a food tour of the city, exploring its culinary delights.

  • Accommodation Tip: Consider staying near the beach for easy access to the beautiful coastline.

Things to do on a rainy day in Hoi An:

  • Take a lantern-making class.
  • Visit the Hoi An Museum.
  • Relax and enjoy a traditional Vietnamese massage at a spa like Reaching Out Arts & Crafts Centre, which offers training and employment opportunities for people with disabilities.
  • Explore the local art scene.

For a rainy day activity, you can choose:

  • Visit the Hoi An Night Market: Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of the night market while staying dry under one of the many umbrellas sold there.

  • Take a cooking class and learn to make Vietnamese dishes.

  • Explore the Japanese Covered Bridge and surrounding temples (during the day):

    • The Deck House: A popular choice for its waterfront views, you can enjoy the beauty of Hoi An’s architecture while strolling along the Thu Bon River.

  • Learn to cook traditional Hoi An dishes:

    • Banh Mi Phuong offers cooking classes that focus on Vietnamese cuisine and teach you how to make delicious dishes with a focus on fresh ingredients and local flavors.

For a more affordable and local experience, consider exploring the following:

  • Hoi An’s ancient houses: These are a great way to learn about the history of the city and its people.
  • The Museum of Folk Culture: This museum is a must-see for any visitor interested in experiencing the rich cultural heritage of Hoi An.

Things to know:

  • Many restaurants and cafes offer cooking classes, where you can learn how to make dishes like spring rolls, pho, and banh mi (a popular Vietnamese sandwich)
  • Learn about the history of Hoi An’s lanterns: You can explore this further at a workshop in the town or Hoi An lantern shops.

Stay tuned for more details on:

  • Accommodation options: From charming homestays to budget-friendly hostels, there are plenty of choices in Hoi An.
  • Specific activities: We’ll delve into the history and culture of the region.
  • Local insights: The best places to seek shelter from the rain.

Let’s explore the charm of Hoi An together!

What do you think? This is just a starting point. We can customize it further based on your interests and budget. Do you have any specific preferences for what you’d like to see and do?

  • Things to do:
  • Experience the vibrant food scene: Hoi An is known for its delicious cuisine, so we can explore different restaurants and dishes that are unique to the region.
  • Explore the local culture: We can visit the Japanese Covered Bridge, a historical landmark, or the Hoi An Lantern Market, where you’ll see traditional crafts and craftsmanship.

Local markets:

  • Market Tip: If you’re looking for a cultural experience, we can visit the Hoi An Market and explore the local markets together.
  • Cultural experiences: Let me know if you’d be interested in learning more about the cuisine of Hoi An. I can help you find some local cooking classes or food tours.

Accommodation:

  • For a budget-friendly stay, we can choose a hostel where they offer affordable dorm rooms and private rooms.
  • For a luxurious experience, how about boutique hotels near the beach, with stunning views and all the amenities?
  • We’ll explore various options for lodging: from charming homestays in the Old Town to modern hotels near the beach.

Let me know what you’d like to see and do in Hoi An, and I can help you plan your itinerary!