Hoi An Old Town: Vietnam's UNESCO Heritage Destination

Frequently asked questions

What are the must-see historical sites in Hoi An Old Town?

The town preserves merchant houses, assembly halls, and temples from the 15th–19th centuries. Key sites include the Museum of Traditional Medicine, Ancient House Free Visit attractions, and the Traditional Art Performance House. Surrounding villages—Kim Bong (carpentry), Thanh Ha (pottery), and silk weaving workshops—showcase traditional crafts. Licensed guides available through accommodations provide detailed historical context and craft demonstrations.

When is the best time to visit Hoi An?

February through May offers the most comfortable weather: temperatures averaging 22–30°C with minimal rainfall (under 85mm in February and March). October through December see the heaviest rain, peaking at 465mm in October. June through August are warm (30–34°C) but relatively dry. January is cool and moderately wet. Visitors seeking consistent dry conditions should avoid September–December.

How do I get from Da Nang airport to Hoi An?

Da Nang International Airport is 24 kilometers away, approximately 30–45 minutes by road. Shuttle services, private car hire, and taxis operate from the terminal. Some hotels offer pickup services as part of booking. Public buses connect Da Nang city to Hoi An (about 30km) but run infrequently. Once in town, walking is the primary mode of transport in the Old Town center.

What types of accommodation are available?

The town has 221 hotels, 100 guesthouses, and 53 hostels within 10 kilometers. Budget guesthouses and hostels concentrate in the Old Town and nearby alleys, charging $10–25 per night. Mid-range hotels offer $30–70 per night. Upscale properties occupy areas adjacent to the heritage zone. Most accept credit cards and Vietnamese Dong; ATMs are widely available (52 within 10km).

What is the local language and currency?

Vietnamese is the primary language. English and French are spoken in tourist establishments, hotels, and restaurants. The currency is the Vietnamese Dong (VND). International ATMs are available throughout the town (52 within 10km). Credit cards are accepted in hotels, mid-range restaurants, and tour operators but may not be accepted in street stalls or small family-run eateries.

How long should I spend in Hoi An?

Most first-time visitors spend 2–3 days exploring the Old Town, visiting nearby craft villages, and sampling the local food scene. The 602 restaurants and 259 cafes support extended stays. Day trips to beaches (1 beach location within 10km) or nearby mountain areas are feasible. Longer stays allow deeper engagement with artisan workshops and lesser-known temples.

More about Hoi An Old Town: Vietnam's UNESCO Heritage Destination

• cost of travel→
• climate→
• best time to visit→