Is Hoi An Worth Visiting? Here’s What You Need to Know!
Hoi An may not be as bustling as the big cities in Vietnam, but that’s exactly what makes it such a gem for families.
Hoi An is known for it’s lanterns and old town. It’s the perfect blend of old-world charm, delicious food, and family friendly activities, making it a favorite stop for anyone traveling through Vietnam.
But the question remains: Is Hoi An worth visiting with kids?
Most people just pop into Hoi An, with a 2 or 3 day itinerary. We spent a month in Hoi An, with a week of what I would label as as family holiday (we met up with friends, relaxed the budget and chilled out).
Well, we’re here to give you the lowdown on why Hoi An should be high on your family travel list, and we may just love Hoi An a little bit.
Top Reasons Why Hoi An is Worth Visiting with Kids (in no particular order)
- Stunning Ancient Town: Hoi An’s Old Town looks like something straight out of a storybook, with its colourful lanterns, narrow streets, and centuries-old architecture. Plus, it’s a UNESCO World Heritage site, so your trip doubles as a cultural lesson for the kids too.
- Delicious Food: Yes, we’re putting food right at the top again—because, let’s face it, Hoi An is worth visiting for its food alone. Banh Mi, Cao Lau, and White Rose dumplings?
- Tailor Shops: Looking for custom-made clothes? Hoi An is famous for its tailor shops, so why not get the kids measured up for a cute outfit while you’re there? It’s not clothes either—they’ll whip you up anything from backpacks to shoes in record time.
- Beautiful Beaches: Just a few kilometers from the Old Town, Hoi An’s beaches like An Bang Beach are perfect for a family day out. Sun, sand, and some paddleboarding if you’re feeling adventurous.
- Family-Friendly Activities: Whether it’s lantern-making workshops or bicycle tours through rice paddies, Hoi An has plenty of things to keep the kids entertained and away from their screens.
Is Hoi An Family-Friendly?
Absolutely! Hoi An is worth visiting with kids for so many reasons. The town is compact, easy to navigate, and locals are incredibly friendly and welcoming towards families. Unlike the hustle and bustle of cities like Ho Chi Minh or Hanoi, Hoi An’s relaxed vibe makes it a great place to slow down and soak in the culture.
Plus, there are pedestrian-only zones in the Ancient Town, although you may still be dodging motorbikes every five seconds!
Best Time of Year to Visit Hoi An
Hoi An has two main seasons: wet and dry.
- Dry season (February to August): This is when Hoi An really shines—literally. It’s sunny, warm, and ideal for hitting the beach or exploring the town without the fear of getting soaked. Expect temperatures to hover around 25-35°C (77-95°F), so bring the sunscreen!
- Wet season (September to January): Rain, rain, and more rain. If you don’t mind the occasional (okay, frequent) downpour, you’ll enjoy fewer crowds, but you’ll also want to keep an eye on potential flooding. So, while Hoi An is still beautiful, it’s not ideal for splashing about at the beach.
Pro tip: Hoi An is worth visiting during the Lantern Festival, which takes place on the 14th day of each lunar month. The town comes alive with glowing lanterns, and the kids will love the magical atmosphere.
How to Get to Hoi An
Hoi An doesn’t have its own airport, but don’t panic—it’s still easy to get to.
- Fly into Da Nang International Airport (DAD): This is the closest airport, and it’s only about a 40-minute drive from Hoi An. From there, you can grab a taxi, a private transfer, or even rent a car. Easy-peasy!
- By train: If you’re feeling adventurous, you can take a train to Da Nang from cities like Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh, then hop on a bus or taxi to Hoi An. Just be warned: Vietnamese trains aren’t the fastest, so it’s an experience you’ll have to be patient for.
- By Bus: Quick, efficient and cheap
How to Get Around Hoi An
Hoi An is super walkable, which is one of the reasons why it’s so family-friendly. But if the kids’ legs get tired, here are a few options:
- Bicycles: The most popular way to get around Hoi An is by bike. Many hotels offer free bike rentals, or you can hire them cheaply from local shops. Pedal through the rice paddies, or ride along the riverfront—it’s a relaxing way to explore, don’t expect any top of the line bikes though, first gear all the way.
- Taxis or Grab: If cycling doesn’t sound appealing, taxis and Grab (the Southeast Asian version of Uber) are everywhere and super affordable.
- Motorbikes: If you’re feeling brave and have older kids, renting a scooter can be fun. But remember, Hoi An’s pedestrian-only zones in the Old Town mean you’ll have to park and walk part of the way.
12 Best Things to Do in Hoi An with Kids
There are so many things to do with kids in Hoi An. Here are just a few.
- Explore the Ancient Town: Wander through the narrow streets, admire the traditional houses, and let the kids marvel at the lanterns hanging overhead.
- Bicycle Ride to Tra Que Vegetable Village: A short bike ride from town, this village is a great spot for the kids to learn about farming, and they can even get their hands dirty!
- Take a Lantern Making Workshop: Hoi An is famous for its lanterns, and there are tons of workshops where the whole family can create their own colorful masterpieces.
- Visit An Bang Beach: Just 10 minutes from the Old Town, this beautiful beach offers calm waters, soft sand, and beachfront restaurants where you can refuel.
- Hoi An Memories Show: This is a spectacular evening performance with traditional dance, music, and even light displays. It’s like a live history lesson, but fun!
- Boat Ride on the Thu Bon River: Hop on a boat and enjoy a relaxing ride on the river. You can even release a lantern onto the water for good luck.
- Check Out the Japanese Covered Bridge: One of Hoi An’s most iconic landmarks. It’s historic, beautiful, and a great place for photos.
- Visit the Night Market: When the sun sets, the night market comes alive with food, souvenirs, and more lanterns than you can count. The kids will love wandering through the stalls.
- Take a Cooking Class: Hoi An is known for its food, so why not learn how to make it? Plenty of family-friendly cooking classes will teach you the art of making fresh spring rolls and Banh Xeo.
- Visit My Son Sanctuary: A little further out of town, this ancient temple complex is like Vietnam’s version of Angkor Wat, but smaller. It’s a fun day trip for older kids who love history.
- Farming and Fishing Eco Tour: Let the kids try their hand at traditional fishing or farming techniques. It’s a unique experience that’s both educational and fun.
- Tailor a Dress or Suit: Let’s be honest—everyone in Hoi An gets clothes made. The kids will have fun choosing fabrics and watching their outfits take shape.
If your looking to create an itinerary, read about the best activities to do in Hoi An here
Best Food to Try in Hoi An
Hoi An is a foodie heaven, and even the pickiest eaters will find something they like. Here are a few dishes not to miss:
- Banh Mi: Hoi An is home to one of the best Banh Mi sandwiches in Vietnam. Crispy baguette, fresh veggies, and a variety of meats—what’s not to love?
- Cao Lau: This noodle dish is unique to Hoi An and comes with pork, greens, and crunchy croutons. It’s like comfort food with a twist.
- White Rose Dumplings: These delicate steamed dumplings are filled with shrimp and look like little roses. Perfect for kids who love trying new things (and they’re not too spicy!).
- Fresh Seafood: If you’re near the beach, grab a seafood feast with freshly caught fish, prawns, and more.
Where to Stay in Hoi An
Hoi An offers a range of family-friendly accommodations, from cozy homestays to luxurious resorts. Finding family accommodation in Hoi An is relatively easy. Many hotels come with family rooms or even villas, and almost all have pools (trust me, you’ll need one after a day of sightseeing).
Best Areas to Stay in Hoi An for Families
- Old Town: If you want to be in the heart of the action, staying in the Old Town is perfect. You’re within walking distance of all the main attractions, and it’s easy to pop back for a rest if the kids get tired.
- Beach Area (An Bang Beach): If your family loves the sand and sea, stay near An Bang Beach. It’s quieter than the Old Town, and you can cycle into town when you want to explore.
- Cam Thanh Village: Just a short bike ride from the center, Cam Thanh offers a more peaceful vibe with rice paddies and coconut groves. Many resorts here offer eco-tours, and it’s a great place to relax.
Areas to Avoid with Kids
Hoi An is pretty safe, but avoid staying too far out of the main areas like Old Town or An Bang Beach. The convenience of being close to the attractions outweighs the cheaper accommodation you might find further away, especially with little ones in tow.
Day Trips from Hoi An
- My Son Sanctuary: Explore this ancient temple complex and get a taste of Vietnam’s history. It’s a great adventure for older kids.
- Marble Mountains: Just a short drive away, these limestone hills offer caves, pagodas, and incredible views. There are even some great climbing opportunities for adventurous families.
- Cham Islands: Head out on a boat trip to these islands for snorkeling, diving, or just a relaxing beach day away from the mainland.
Travel Tips for Hoi An
- Bring sunscreen: Hoi An is hot and sunny, so don’t forget the sunscreen and hats.
- Rent bikes: It’s the best way to explore the town and the surrounding countryside.
- Pack for the rain: If you’re visiting in the wet season, a lightweight rain jacket is a must.
- Be mindful of the heat: The best time to explore is in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the midday sun.
Where is is good to visit in Vietnam with kids?
Where Else is Good to Visit in Vietnam with Kids?
If you’re planning a family trip to Vietnam, here are some other destinations worth visiting with kids:
- Hanoi: Vietnam’s capital is filled with museums, parks, and cultural landmarks. Explore the Old Quarter, visit the Water Puppet Theatre, and don’t miss a walk around Hoan Kiem Lake.
- Halong Bay: Take the family on a boat cruise around the stunning limestone karsts of Halong Bay. It’s an unforgettable experience, and some cruises even offer family-friendly activities like kayaking and swimming.
- Phu Quoc Island: For a beach escape, head to Phu Quoc, Vietnam’s largest island. The beaches are pristine, and the island has activities like snorkeling, wildlife parks, and night markets.
- Da Nang: Located just a short drive from Hoi An, Da Nang offers beautiful beaches, the famous Dragon Bridge, and plenty of family-friendly resorts. You can easily combine a stay in Da Nang with Hoi An for the perfect coastal vacation.
Pros and Cons of Visiting Hoi An with Kids
Pros:
- Compact and Walkable: Hoi An’s Old Town is small and easy to explore on foot, which is ideal when traveling with kids. The pedestrian-only zones make it a breeze to wander around without worrying about traffic.
- Rich Cultural Experience: Hoi An’s history and heritage, from the Japanese Covered Bridge to ancient temples, provide a worldschooling adventure for kids. Plus, activities like lantern-making workshops add an interactive element to the learning.
- Delicious and Kid-Friendly Food: From tasty Banh Mi sandwiches to flavorful noodles, Hoi An offers food options that even picky eaters will love. There’s also plenty of international cuisine for when you need a break from Vietnamese food.
- Beaches Close By: Hoi An has the best of both worlds—cultural attractions in the Old Town and beautiful beaches just a short ride away, like An Bang Beach. Perfect for families wanting to combine city exploration with some relaxation by the sea.
- Safe and Family-Friendly: The laid-back atmosphere and welcoming locals make Hoi An a very safe and family-friendly destination. Locals are used to tourists and often go the extra mile to make sure kids are happy.
- Unique Workshops and Classes: Lantern-making, cooking classes, and farming tours are activities the whole family can enjoy, giving kids hands-on experiences they won’t forget. Hoi An is worth visiting just for these fun and educational experiences.
Cons:
- Crowded in Peak Season: Hoi An can get busy, especially during the dry season and festivals. The Old Town can become packed with tourists, which might make it less enjoyable for families with small kids who don’t enjoy crowds.
- Hot and Humid: The heat in Hoi An, especially during the dry season, can be intense. High temperatures and humidity may make it challenging to keep kids cool and comfortable while sightseeing.
- Wet Season Risks: During the rainy season (September to January), Hoi An can experience heavy downpours and even flooding. If you’re not keen on dodging raindrops, you might want to skip visiting during this time.
- Overabundance of Tailors: While having custom clothes made can be exciting, the abundance of tailor shops can be overwhelming. With kids, it might be hard to balance shopping for new clothes while keeping them entertained.
- Limited Big Attractions for Older Kids: Hoi An is all about culture, food, and history, which is amazing for some, but there are fewer “big attractions” (like amusement parks or large-scale entertainment) that might be more appealing to teens or older kids.
So, is Hoi An Worth Visiting with Kids?
In short—YES! Hoi An is the perfect destination for families looking to experience Vietnam’s charm without the chaos of the big cities.
It totally inspired us to want to spend more time exploring Vietnam.
Between the food, the activities, and the warm, welcoming locals, Hoi An is worth visiting for a family-friendly adventure that’s both relaxing and fun.
How long should you stay in Hoi An?
Most people come to Hoi An for 2 or 3 days, maybe longer if they want something tailoring. If you have limited time to explore then this will give you a taste of Hoi An but it has so much more to offer.
Is Hoi An too Touristy?
Whenever somewhere is voted a top destinations in the world (Wanderlust magazine), things are bound to change. As much as I want to say, no, Hoi An isn’t touristy. It can be. The trick with Hoi An old town is to get in early and out early.
Is Hoi An Safe?
Hoi An felt very safe for our family. The city is known for its friendly locals and laid-back atmosphere, and the streets are generally well-lit and with a police presence.
Like in any new city, it is always important to be cautious and avoid secluded areas particularly at late hours. Make sure to keep your belongings secure and avoid carrying valuable items openly.
While the crime rate is relatively low, it is still important to stay alert and follow general safety precautions.
Our favourite family travel planning tools
- Booking.com – The best all-around accommodation booking site with the widest selection of budget accommodation. It’s easy to filter and sort into price and availability.
- Skyscanner– This is by far our favourite flight search engine. They are able to search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites often miss.
- Kiwi– We use Kiwi for our destination inspiration, and to help find those routes which are a little cheaper. It has a very flexible search option for finding flights.
- GetYourGuide– Get Your Guide is the place to go for tours and excursions offered all around the world including everything from walking tours, to street-food tours, cooking classes, desert safari’s and more!
- SafetyWing – A great travel insurance option that offers load of flexibility.
- Genki – Travel insurance tailored for longterm travel and nomads (including those who have already left home).
- ESim– We always set up an esim for arrival into a country to help navigate our way around.
- Discover Cars– Our go to for rentals, internationally. We always find the best deals here
- 12go– Our go to for booking buses, trains, coaches and boats
- TravelSpend– Helps us to keep track of our budget
