Three-Day Experience in Hoi An, Vietnam

26/04/26 - 28/04/26

I spent three days in Hoi An, staying close to the Hoi An Night Market, and it gave me a really grounded feel for the town, both the beauty and the reality of it.

The Town Itself

Hoi An has a very distinct charm. The town is built around a network of small rivers that weave through it, with short bridges connecting different parts of the old town. Being so close to the sea, the whole place feels open and alive with water.

At night, the old town really comes to life. Colorful lanterns hang across the streets, lighting everything in warm tones. It gives the place a calm but vibrant atmosphere that’s hard to ignore.

I also really enjoyed the food. There are plenty of restaurants, and most of what I tried was solid. Definitely worth exploring different spots rather than sticking to just one.

Shopping & Night Market

The night market is lively, but after a while, it starts to feel repetitive. Many vendors sell almost identical items, souvenirs, clothes, accessories, so it doesn’t feel very unique from stall to stall.

That said, there are a few standout places. Some art shops display really beautiful paintings, and those felt more special compared to the rest.

The Beach – An Bang Beach

About a 15-minute drive away is An Bang Beach. The water there was great, clean, refreshing, and easy to spend time in.

One thing I liked is that you can order food and drinks directly to your spot on the beach, which makes it easy to stay there for a few hours without needing to move around.

Just keep in mind: since the beach faces east, you won’t get a sunset over the water.

Getting Around

One thing I definitely recommend is renting a bicycle and riding around the old town. It’s a great way to explore and take everything in at your own pace.

That said, it can get crowded, especially in the central areas. And like much of Vietnam, road rules are… flexible. If someone honks, it usually means they’re coming through—no matter what.

As a cyclist, you’re pretty low on the priority list, so you have to stay aware and ride carefully.

Final Thoughts

Hoi An is a place you go to experience the atmosphere more than anything else. The beauty of the old town, the lanterns, the rivers, and the overall vibe make it worth visiting.

At the same time, not everything is unique, especially when it comes to shopping, but if you focus on the experience rather than the novelty, it’s easy to enjoy what the town offers.