Hoi An Itinerary: A Travel Guide Blog

by Emily | posted in: Vietnam | 0

Last updated on May 16th, 2026

Traveling to Hoi An? Below Hoi An travel guide blog contains everything I know about Hoi An. It covered all the things to do, which areas to stay in, what food to eat, and all the useful travel tips when visiting Hoi An. For your convenience, I’ve even compiled links to hotels, tours, transportation, and other services. My Hoi An itinerary included.

We visited Hội An during our visit to Central Vietnam. This historical city is one of the travel destinations that I’d want to visit again. You will see the fascinating history of a preserved ancient town, the picturesque Hoai River with the rolling boat, and paper lanterns zigzagging from building to building.

Hoi An is lovely at any time of the day but at night, it turns into something magical. As the sunset, the lanterns are lit up the yellow town with the warm glow of yellow, red, and green light. It was so dreamy! How someone could didn’t fall in love in this charming, colorful, and vibrant little town. My visit to Hoi An leaves me with an unforgettable memory that I won’t hesitate to recommend to friends.

If you’re visiting Hoi An for the first time, then this detailed Hoi An travel guide blog will tell you everything you need to know to plan your trip. I have come up with this Hoi An itinerary with things to do, what to see, and where to go, with a few useful tips I learned during my trip to Hoi An. Read on to find out what you can do there!

Visit Hoi An: A Travel Guide

Hội An is one of the prettiest cities in all of Vietnam. It is a picturesque quaint town located in Central Vietnam. With the well-preserved ancient town, Hoi An is now listed as UNESCO World Heritage Site. This historical town used to be an important trading port for merchants coming from all over Asia during the 15th to 19th centuries.

Hoi An has a history of exposure to foreign cultures. Wooden Chinese temples, colorful French colonial buildings, Vietnamese tube houses, and the iconic Japanese Covered Bridge. Hoi An is a great example of the local Vietnamese cultural blend with foreign influence from Western, Southeast, and East Asia.

Heading to Central Vietnam? Check out my suggested travel itinerary to Hoi An, Hue, and Da Nang.

Best time to visit Hoi An

Weather-wise, the best time to visit Hoi An is from February through April when the weather is slightly chilly and cooler. This is the dry season but temperatures are very comfortable.

While May to August in Hoi An is getting hotter with a few degrees warmer. Although the weather was clear and sunny, the heat can go up to unbearable at 37C. Keep in mind that it can get EXTREMELY hot and humid between June and August.

The rainy season lasts from September to January. It can be annoying but there will be fewer tourists around and the prices are cheaper to visit Hoi An.

How Many Days For Hoi An

One day in Hoi An is doable if you are only interested in the ancient town. But if you want to explore all that Hoi An has to offer, I recommend setting aside 3 days. This gives you enough time to see Hoi An and the attractions nearby. There are many interesting activities and day trips that you can plan in your Hoi An itinerary.

Hoi An Travel Guide Tips: Make sure to stay one night in Hoi An as the ancient town is incredibly beautiful when the lanterns light up. You can read more things to do in the Hoi An Travel Guide below.

Where To Stay

If you’re looking for places to stay in Hoi An during your first visit to Vietnam, the best area to stay is within Hoi An Ancient Town. Staying in the heart of Hoi An will put you closest to the attractions. You’ll find the best food and explore the town easily.

We stayed at Hoian Central Hotel, a lovely 3-star hotel to stay in the heart of Hoi An. It is very close to the old town with about 3 mins walk. The room and bathroom were clean and very comfortable and everything you could want. They even have bicycles you can use for free during your stay.

A great value and a great location to stay in Hoi An. Check the room rate for your best stay in Hoi An.

How To Get To Hoi An

Hoi An has no airport, and no train station either. The nearest airport is Da Nang Airport (DAD) with frequent International flights and domestic flights from Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and other large Vietnamese cities. From the airport, it is best to hire a car/taxi to take you to Hoi An, with an approximately 1-hour drive.

If you are in Danang, a taxi between Da Nang and Hoi An is usually between around 250,000 VND. You can also pre-book the city’s transfer to ease transport arrangements. Find more Hoi An transport options HERE.

To get to Hoi An, we flew to Da Nang Airport from our home country and then had a pre-booked driver transfer us to Hoi An. We also booked the same private car charter to take us back to the airport from Da Nang at the end of the trip. It is highly recommended without worrying too much about transport arrangements and the price is very reasonable.

PRE-BOOK: Private Transfer Da Nang Airport and Hoi An

Hoi An Travel Tips: Pre-book 4G Vietnam SIM Card and pick it up at the Da Nang Airport when you land. This will save you a few dollars by pre-booking.

Getting Around in Hoi An

Hoi An is fairly compact with most of its major sights being within the ancient old town. Everything is walkable once you are in the ancient town. You could also borrow a bicycle or rent a scooter if you want to explore the nearby attractions.

The streets in Hoi An can be very crowded with tourism hotspots, but much more fun when you wander around.

Hoi An Itinerary: What To Do and See

Hoi An is a perfect mix of history, culture, shopping, cuisine, and relaxation. To fully appreciate the town’s aquatic charm, you need to know more from the Hoi An travel guide. Trust us, Hoi An is one place you don’t want to miss.

Hoi An Itinerary: What To Do in Hoi An

Walk Around in Hoi An Ancient Town
Visit Hoi An Historical Building
Admire the Japanese Covered Bridge
Make a custom suit
Shop for local handicrafts
Visit Hoi An Central Market
Drink Vietnamese Coffee at Cafe
Eat Hoi An Specialty Dishes
Chill with Herbal Tea
Watch Sun Set at Thu Bon River
Explore Hoi An Night Market
Shop at Lantern Market
Celebrate Hoi An Lantern Festival
Take a Day Trip To Attractions Nearby

Next, I’ll run through all the best things to do in more detail in the below sections.

Walk Around in Hoi An Ancient Town

Compared to Vietnam’s other cities, Hoi An is just the kind of town I’d imagine people would stay in when they want to take it slow. The mix of Chinese, Japanese and Vietnamese architecture makes the ancient town very unique. Few streets in the center are closed off to cars and motorbikes, making it much more pleasant for walking around.

Walking through Hoi An feels as if you’re walking through an ancient fairy tale. Take your time and stroll along its narrow streets, old houses, blossoming gardens, ancient bridges, and busy markets. The best way is by exploring the charming old town with a relaxing stroll. You will find gorgeous architecture, historical buildings, adorable cafes, and hidden gems in the old town. It transports you back in time where you can enjoy the simple pleasures of life.

In the early evenings, the old town looks even more interesting. Hundreds of beautiful colorful paper lanterns are lit and illuminate the streets. It creates a magical, vibrant and unique atmosphere. A perfect place to go for a relaxing walk and take in all the beautiful sights on your Hoi An itinerary.

Visit Hoi An Historical Building

Tan Ky House - Hoi An Travel Guide — Tan Ky House

Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site, Hoi An old town is filled with ancient historic buildings. There are up to thanks to its 800 historic buildings such as museums, ancient homes, and pretty temples. Some said most of the buildings is dated back to 2000 years ago.

There are several historical buildings and cultural significance that are open for public viewing. You don’t have to pay for visiting the old town but if you are thinking of visiting those clan associations or some of the top temples, you will have to buy a ticket. The ticket costs VND 120,000 to enter 5 buildings within 24 hours.

There are 4 old houses, 4 museums, and 3 assembly halls to choose from. You can visit a museum, an assembly hall, an old house, Hoi An handicraft workshop, and a choice between Quan Cong’s Temple or the temple within the Japanese Covered Bridge. The recommendation as per the Lonely Planet on Vietnam is the Museum of Trading Ceramics, Phuc Kien Assembly Hall, Tan Ky House, and Quan Cong’s Temple.

Note: Admission fee goes to funding the conservation of the place.

Admire the Japanese Covered Bridge

Japanese Bridge Hoi An — Japanese Covered Bridge, Hoi An

This is a Hoi An travel guide must-do that should be on your Hoi An itinerary. The iconic Japanese covered bridge is one of the most beautiful but busiest areas in the old town. It’s also one of the first things that come to many people’s minds when they think of Hoi An.

The Japanese Covered Bridge was constructed in the 1590s by the Japanese community to link it with the Chinese quarters. It is more than a bridge and a symbol of Hôi An which represents the fusion of the various cultures found in this city over the past centuries.

You can walk along the bridge on your own as it is free of charge. Or go on a guided walking tour through Hoi An Ancient Town.

Make A Custom Suit

Hoi An is famous across Vietnam for its textile industry, making it a popular spot to make a custom suits. There is an endless number of tailor shops all over the town. From shoes, jackets, suits, to wedding dresses, you can get anything custom-made just for you.

Visit a shop, and choose your favorite fabric for your customized suit. It normally takes 24 hours or up to three days for a tailored suit depending on your design. So it’s best to find a tailor and have your consultation on the first day you arrive in Hoi An. Plan accordingly to avoid disappointment.

Some of the shops are really cheap but remember that you usually get what you pay for. We did not purchase any suits in Hoi An. But the quality and prices of making a custom suit in Hoi An are really worth it!

Shop for Local Handicrafts

Feeling like shopping? Hoi An is known for beautiful local handicrafts. If you enjoy shopping there are also plenty of stores, boutiques, and night market stands selling adorable souvenirs at cheap prices. A wide variety of goods focused heavily on custom tailors and Vietnamese souvenirs, with the latter ranging from souvenir kitsch to seemingly quality art and textiles.

Besides, many local arts and handmade products are made by local minorities and make excellent gifts or souvenirs.

Shopping in Hoi An was thoroughly enjoyable, whether of the window shopping or spending variety. I enjoy window shopping and also buying a little lantern to bring back home.

Visit Hoi An Central Market

No matter where we go, we always love visiting a local market. It gives you a glimpse into what everyday life is like for the locals. Located at one end of the Ancient Town, the Central Market in Hoi An is the best choice to know the locals. It is a typical Southeast Asian market and you’ll find locals bargaining for fresh fruit, vegetables, and meats.

Wake up early as it’s best experienced in the morning when it’s most active. You will understand more about the local lifestyle after exploring the central market. And, it is FUN!

Guided option: Tour the market with a local chef and pick up everything you need to prepare a few local delicacies at a cooking class back in the kitchen.

Drink Vietnamese Coffee in Cafe

Egg Coffee Hoi An — Drinking Egg Coffee in Hoi An

Hoi An is one of Vietnam’s best destinations for relaxing. Aside from wandering around in the ancient town, drinking Vietnamese coffee in an outdoor cafe is one of the best ways to relax in Hoi An. Find a chill cafe, grab a seat, have a coffee, and watch the sunset over this historic city.

You’ll find various Vietnamese coffee on every café menu in Hoi An. The most common is the Vietnamese iced coffee with condensed milk (Cà Phê Dá). For Hoi An culinary experience, you can also try the egg coffee (Cà phê trứng), prepared with egg yolks, sugar, condensed milk, and roasted coffee.

Eat Hoi An Specialty Dishes

Cao lau - Hoi An Style Noodles — Cao Lau – Hoi An Style Noodles

Being a food lover, I couldn’t be more excited when looking for what to eat here. Hội An is truly a foodie paradise with plenty of street food, restaurants, and food markets.

Be sure to try the regional Hoi An specialty dishes when visiting here. We ate a lot and truly enjoy our food tour while staying here. The top three must-eat food in Hoi An are Cao Lau (Thick rice noodles with pork and local greens), Banh Mi (Vietnamese Baguette), and Banh Bao Banh Vac (white rose dumpling). Try as much of the food as possible!

Hoi An Must Eat Food - Banh Mi Phuong — Hoi An Must Eat Food – Banh Mi Phuong

There are many more Hoi An food awaiting you to taste. Continue reading my Da Nang and Hoi An Food Guide, and taste them for yourself!

Hoi An Travel Guide Tips: You can go to any eateries and be rewarded with the best Vietnamese you’ve ever tasted in your life. But if you’d like to go on a food tour or other food-related activity, then you can book one on Klook. They offer various types of food tours in Hoi An!

Chill with Herbal Tea

Nothing like a cold ice refreshing herbal tea on a hot day or night in Hoi An. The trendy traditional drink is made from herbal tea, lemongrass, and lemon, and is often served with a bamboo straw. It is a refreshing tea dispelling fatigue after a long walk around Hoi An.

MOT is a favorite stall that many people choose to enjoy herbal tea when coming to the old town. You will notice it as there are dozens of people waiting in line for its Take-Away Herbal Tea. The refreshment costs you 10,000 VND.

Watch Sunset at Thu Bon River

Once it’s closer to sunset, make sure you walk by Thu Bon River. There is no better place to be when the sun starts to go down and watch the city transform at dusk, with boats and paper lanterns starting to float around Thu Bon River.

There are also many bars along the Thu Bon River for viewing the sunset. Due to the prime location, drinking there will be more expensive but the view is truly awesome.

Explore Hoi An night market

Explore Hoi An night market is essential even if just to admire the glowing lanterns. Every evening, the 300-meter-long Nguyen Hoang Street is transformed into a lively night market. The street is located opposite the Cau Pagoda and next to the dreamy Hoai River.

There’s a busy vibe with about 50 street vendors and stalls, that offer a varied selection of goods and foods. From the handmade jewelry and clothes, and food vendors on the streets to the various entertainment on the street, it was a sight to be seen.

We enjoy the shopping vibe in Hoi An night market and didn’t buy here. There are loads of souvenirs but many repeated in various stalls. Worth walking through for something to do in Hoi An.

Shop at Lantern Market

Another must-see in Hoi An is the spectacular Lantern Market inside the Hoi An Night Market. Hundreds of different colored lanterns decorate the street and illuminate the stalls, making it one of the most scenic markets in Vietnam.

You can buy traditional lanterns here which come in all different shapes and sizes. The lanterns are made of gorgeous Hoi An silk with super beautiful motifs and stand out with amazing color combinations. If you’re looking for an authentic Hoi An experience, then the Lantern Market is not to be missed!

Celebrate Hoi An Lantern Festival

The UNESCO Heritage Site brings back ancient traditions and celebrates the full moon with the world. Hoi An Lantern Festival runs on the 14th day of every lunar month from 17:30 to 22:00. All the lights in town are shut off and the streets will be lit with lanterns. Besides, floating lanterns are illuminated the Hoai River, creating a magical glow.

Dropping lanterns is an experience not to be missed if you come to Hoi An. It represents the cultural traditions and spiritual world of the Hoi An people. You can go on a boat on the river for a short fairy tale ride. Get a lantern, send it down the river and make a wish. Just make sure to check the dates before you go.

Take a Day Trip To Attractions Nearby

My Son Sanctuary - Central Vietnam itinerary — Day Trip from Hoi An – My Son temples and ruins

Numerous tours are found online, at hotels, and through local tourism, offices can take you around the town and region. You can easily take a day trip to the nearby beaches, Da Nang, and historic and cultural sights. Here is our recommendation if you have more time to spare in Hoi An. All are reachable for you in one day visit from Hoi An.

My Son temples and ruins – The most popular day trip you can make from Hoi An. These 1,300-year-old ruins are hidden in the jungle and built by the Cham people, an ethnic group found in Vietnam and Cambodia. It is like a small version of Angkor Wat, Cambodia, and best for those who like to know more about the history. This UNESCO World Heritage Site takes about an hour’s drive west of Hoi An.

Hue Imperial Citadel – Another UNESCO World Heritage Site in Vietnam. The Complex of Hue Monuments is the former imperial capital of Vietnam and features hundreds of monuments and ruins, such as the Forbidden Purple City.

Da Nang Day Tour – If you’ve had enough of Hoi An, you can visit Da Nang to see what the nearby cities look like. Da Nang is a young and dynamic city with long, sandy beaches. I spend another two days in Danang after leaving Hoi An to enjoy the beaches in Da Nang.

Hoi An Impression Theme Park and Hoi An Memories Show – Join and take part in the world’s largest outdoor show featuring over 500 performers in Hoi An Memories Show. It is a unique combination of music, scenes, and dance in a lively performing arts program. Highly recommend it to those who also seek to get to know the locals better and indulge in the richness of Vietnam culture.

Klook Exclusive Deal: Get Additional Service For Hoi An Impressive Theme Park Combo Ticket

More Hoi An Travel Tips

Last but not least, I am sharing some of the useful tips I learned from our trip in this Hoi An travel guide. I’m definitely not an expert on Vietnam but I do hope you find this information useful.

Why visit Hoi An?
Hoi An is one of the most popular places in Vietnam. And why shouldn’t it be? The city is incredibly charming with smiling locals, food is cheap and delicious, and there are plenty of things to do in Hoi An for first-time visitors.

Is Hoi An worth visiting?
Definitely YES! I love the charming old town especially when the lanterns all lightened up at night. Strolling on the narrow streets, and hunting for mouthwatering food were some of my favorite things to do in Hoi An.

Is Da Nang or Hoi An better to visit?
Danang is famous for its beautiful beaches while Hoi An is popular for its ancient town. For me, I am preferring Hoi An’s historical sites and perfectly chilled out. But both places are worth spending a few days of the visit.

Overview: A Trip To Hoi An

All in all, Hoi An is such an amazing and charming riverside town. The old port city still exhibits plenty of history and culture, although numerous people will tell you that tourism is taking over. But, there’s a reason for that. The ancient town is so uniquely beautiful that you may not even mind!

I still love Hoi An and wish to come back for another visit. The yellow town is so colorful and full of things that you would like to explore. Little cafes, markets, riversides, and lanterns are a few things that would charm you no end. Highly recommend it as a highlight of your trip to Central Vietnam. We hope our Hoi An Travel Guide offers plenty of suggestions, things to do, and tips to help you plan your trip. Thanks for reading and have an amazing time in Hoi An!

Lastly, if you need any help in planning your trip to Hoi An, then feel free to read more on our Central Vietnam travel blog posts below:

Traveling to Northern Vietnam:

Traveling to Ho Chi Minh City? Feel free to read on our Saigon travel stories.

Lastly, traveling to Phu Quoc? Feel free to read on our Phu Quoc travel stories.

Ultimate Travel Guide Blog to Phu Quoc itinerary

Da Nang & Hoi An Food Guide: What To Eat

by Emily | posted in: Vietnam | 0

Last updated on May 16th, 2026

If you’re looking for a diverse Vietnamese food experience, then this list of best Da Nang and Hoi An restaurants, cafes, and street foods has you covered. You’ll discover all the delicious, cheap, and mouth-watering local Vietnamese cuisine in the Da Nang and Hoi An Food Guide when you visit Central Vietnam.

When talking about the culture of a country, it is impossible not to speak about food. I have been to Central Vietnam and visited the Da Nang and Hoi An for a short gateway. We visited many attractions and enjoyed coming here for the unbeatable value, and most important delicious Vietnamese food. The food scene in Central Vietnam offers unique flavors and the local cuisine here will surely satisfy all travelers.

While our Central Vietnamese food guide focuses on the best dishes to have in Da Nang and Hoi An, and also some of the best restaurants to try those Vietnamese local dishes. If you’d like to know where to try some of the tastiest Vietnamese local dishes in Danang and Hoi An like Banh Mi, Cao Lau, Mi Quang, then this article will be useful to you.

On this ultimate Da Nang and Hoi An Food Guide, you will find our best food tips, where and what to eat in Da Nang and Hoi An. Feel free to check out all the food tips to know where and what to eat when you come here.

What To Eat in Da Nang and Hoi An

There are countless places to enjoy the best food in Da Nang and Hoi An. Among them, street food plays a big role in Central Vietnam with many local cuisines available on the many streets. If you are not street food fans, there are also some great Vietnamese restaurants for casual Vietnamese food, offering a great chance to try regional food.

Here are a few local Vietnamese delicacies you have to try and listed in the Da Nang and Hoi An Food Guide:

Mì Quảng (Quang style Noodle)
Cao lầu (Hoi An Style Noodles)
Bánh mì (Vietnamese Bread)
Bánh Bao Bánh Vạc (White Rose Dumplings)
Thịt Nướng / Thịt xiên Nướng (Grilled meat on Skewers)
Bánh xèo (Vietnamese Rice Crepes / Pancakes)
Hải Sản (Seafood)
Phở Bo (Beef Pho Noodle Soup)
Com Ga Hoi An (Vietnamese Chicken Rice)
Refreshing drink (Vietnamese iced coffee, local beer, lotus herbal tea, and more)

Food Tour in Da Nang and Hoi An (Quick Link)

Eating at local Vietnamese restaurants is great, but so is going on a food tour. It’s a great way to learn about the local cuisine. Check out some of the most popular food-related tours and activities in Da Nang and Hoi An.

Mì Quảng (Quang style Noodle)

What To Eat in Da Nang and Hoi An - Mi Quang — Mi Quang – Da Nang Must Eat

Mì Quảng is a Vietnamese noodle dish that originated in Quảng Nam Province in Central Vietnam. Literally translating to Quảng style noodles, the famous Quang noodles have long been a favourite food among locals and travellers to Da Nang in the Central region.

Mi Quang has a rustic taste and is rich in flavour. The main ingredients of mì quảng are turmeric rice noodles, meat, and herbs, most commonly served with a small amount of broth. Typically, this noodle dish is topped with freshly fried peanuts or rice crackers and served together or separately with raw vegetables.

You can find Mì Quảng almost everywhere in Da Nang for an authentic local bowl of this iconic dish. During our exploration of the city, we tried the Mi Quang at a tiny restaurant tucked in a hidden alley. All the customers are locals. It was an amazing find. You can try the perfect combination of Quang noodles and crispy ram here. Most importantly, prices are extremely affordable.

Price from: 40,000-60,000 VND/bowl.

Da Nang Food Trip: You can also sample this wonderful Da Nang signature dish in Hoi An.

Cao lầu (Hoi An Style Noodles)

Another must-eat in Central Vietnam – Cao Lau, the Hoi An Style Noodles. It is a rice noodle dish served with pork, greens, and fresh herbs. The special about the Cao Lau is the noodles. The noodles are pre-soaked in local water with lye made from wood ash, giving it a unique bright yellow color and characteristic flavor.

Cao Lau is the historic town, Hoi An’s quintessential must-try dish. You will easily find Cao Lau from noodle vendors at the restaurants, night markets, curbside food stalls, and backstreet eateries.

Price from: 60,000-60,000 VND/bowl.

Where to eat Cau Lau in Hoi An:

To truly experience authentic Cao Lầu, one must enjoy it in Hoi An. Most restaurants in Hoi An offer this noodle dish, along with other local specialties like Mi Quang and Pho, making it easy to find when you’re looking for the noodles dish.

Miss Ly Restaurant Hoi An

During our visit to Hoi An, we stopped by Miss Ly Restaurant (Hoi An) to sample this local favorite. Just a step away from the Hoi An Market, this family-run eatery serves chewy noodles topped with flavorful barbecued pork, and it has gained popularity mainly through word of mouth.

The signature Cao Lầu dish here is rich in flavor, featuring perfectly chewy noodles, tender slices of pork, fresh crisp greens, and a savory broth that distinguishes this regional specialty. We also ordered some other local Vietnamese dishes, and we particularly enjoyed the crispy fried wontons from Miss Ly.

Miss Ly Cafeteria (Hoi An)
Address: 22 Nguyễn Huệ, Cẩm Châu, Hội An.
Business Hours: Daily from 11:00 to 22:00

For more details, check out our dining experience at Miss Ly Restaurant Hoi An!

Com Linh – Vietnamese Restaurant

Com Linh is a family-owned restaurant located in Hoi An, known for its authentic flavors that offer a true taste of the Central region at affordable prices. The food is both delicious and fresh, featuring local dishes such as white roses, fried wontons, Cao Lầu, Mi Quang, and many more Central region Vietnamese dishes. All ingredients are locally grown and prepared fresh. Their roasted duck and crispy pork are truly thumb up!

Cơm Linh – Vietnamese Restaurant
Address: 42 Phan Chu Trinh, Phường Minh An, Hội An.
Business Hours: Daily from 10:30 AM to 9:00 PM (Closed on the 1st and 15th days of the lunar month)

To learn about the best food to eat here, read more about our dining experience at Com Linh Hoi An.

Bánh mì (Vietnamese Bread)

Introduced by the French during the colonial period, Bánh mì has become one of the National dishes in Vietnam. The “Banh mi “refers to bread but it’s often used to describe the sandwich made with a small French baguette. The baguette is toasted until hot and crispy, and then filled with all kinds of fillings such as local Pâté (a mixture of cooked ground meat and fat minced into a spreadable paste), eggs, cold meat, shredded chicken, grilled meat, and vegetables.

Price from: 15,000-35,000 VND / loaf depending on filling

Where to eat Banh mi in Hoi An:

The popular street food banh mi can be found all over Vietnam but Hoi An has its variations to deserve the title of “the best Banh Mi in the world”. Banh Mi Phuong and Banh My Queen are possibly the most popular places when looking for what to eat in Hoi An. Both were outstanding and served the best Banh Mi that I’ve had anywhere in Vietnam.

Banh mi Phuong

Recommended by the journalist Anthony Bourdain, Banh Mi Phuong is one of the best banh mi in Central Vietnam. A crispy French baguette is filled with delicious spreads and pastes, topped with the meat of your choice. The price is around 35.000 VND for an authentic Banh Mi!

Banh Mi Phuong
Address: 2B D Phan Chau Trinh, Hoi An.
Opening Hours: Daily from 6:30 to 21:00.

Madam Khanh – The Banh Mi Queen

Madam Khan’s is perhaps the best-known and most popular spot among locals. They offer an extensive menu of Bánh Mì, particularly highlighting their vegan and vegetarian options, all served with fresh bread and ample filling. The prices are unbeatable. The pork and ham Bánh Mì is particularly noteworthy, it’s delicious, warm, and features super crunchy bread. Don’t forget to add their signature chili sauce for an extra kick!

Madam Khanh – The Banh Mi Queen
Address: 115 Tran Cao Van Street, Hoi An.
Opening Hours: Daily from 8:00 to 19:30.

Bánh Bao Bánh Vạc (White Rose Dumplings)

Banh Bao Banh Vac - white rose dumplings

White rose dumplings, known as bánh bao bánh vạc, are a unique dish from the Hoi An region and a must-try for visitors. These dumplings are made from translucent white dough and filled with spiced minced shrimp or pork. Their flower-like shape gives them their name. They are topped with crispy fried shallots and served with a special dipping sauce made from shrimp broth, chilies, lemon, and sugar.

White Rose Restaurant is a renowned establishment in Hoi An, located just a 10-15 minute walk from the ancient town. It is famous for its white rose dumplings. The restaurant also offered at various other restaurants in the area, as many of them source their dumplings from the White Rose Restaurant. You can walk to the back of the dining hall to watch the ladies chefs prepare the dumplings on-site! While the menu is limited, it showcases great creativity. The standout dishes include the white rose dumplings and fried wontons.

White Rose Restaurant
Address: 533 Hai Ba Trung, Hoi An.
Business Hours: Daily from 7:30 to 20:30.

Thịt Nướng / Thịt Xiên Nướng (Grilled meat on Skewers)

The meaning of Thit Nuong is baked or barbecued meat while Thit Xien Nuong means grilled meat on skewers. Pork is normally used as the meat for the skewers and served together with a basket of spices, sauces, and raw vegetables.

The grilled pork on a hot charcoal stove is wrapped in a layer of wet cake, herbs, and raw vegetables. The dipping sauce is the soul of the dish. Dip the roll into the specially prepared sauces when enjoying it. The sweetness of the sauce, together with the deliciousness of the meat and fresh raw vegetables, perfect match!

You would find the pork skewers sold at street stands almost everywhere in Vietnam. It is also very common and easily found in the central region, especially in the Hoi An Ancient Town. You’ll find it’s just impossible to resist this seductive smell when you’ve ever walked by.

Price from: 5,000 VND/skewers.

Thit Nuong Co Loi Hoi An

Thit Nuong Co Loi is a humble open-air BBQ street vendor in Hoi An. The eatery is renowned for its fragrant grilled pork skewers, which are served with silky rice paper and fresh herbs. The stall is always bustling with customers, thanks to its bold flavors and reasonable prices. The grilled pork is prepared simply yet thoughtfully, preserving the rustic essence of Central Vietnamese cuisine.

Thịt Nướng Cô Lợi Hội An
Address: 03 Nguyễn Huệ, Cẩm Châu, Hội An, Quảng Nam 51306.
Business Hours: Daily 14:30 to 20:00

Bánh xèo (Vietnamese Rice Crepes / Pancakes)

Banh Xeo — Popular Local Street Food – Bánh Xèo

Bánh Xèo is a popular street snack in Vietnam, especially in the Central and the South of Vietnam. It is a savory crepe or pancake made from a basic blend of rice flour, turmeric, and coconut cream, along with other ingredients. The bright yellow crispy crepe is filled with shrimp, pork, and bean sprouts.

Walking along the street, you will many food stalls selling this local snack food. The delicious, crispy, hot pancakes will hold you back the first time you eat them. You can also try Banh Xeo in the restaurant. You’ll also get a plate of herbs and lettuce to accompany your dish.

Price from: 10,000 – 30,000 VND/piece.

An Thoi Da Nang

The Michelin Bib Gourmand Vietnamese Restaurant – An Thoi Da Nang is a popular dining destination known for its authentic Vietnamese flavors. It’s the perfect place to enjoy traditional cuisine in Da Nang. The An Thoi menu offers a wonderful selection of local Vietnamese dishes.

One standout item is the Banh Xeo, a savory crepe filled with shrimp, pork, and bean sprouts.

This dish provides a delightful combination of textures and flavors, featuring a perfectly crunchy exterior and just the right amount of filling to create richness and depth. Always very popular, with long waiting lines. Read about our dining experience at An Thoi Da Nang: a Michelin Bib Gourmand Vietnamese restaurant.

Ăn Thôi Restaurant
Address:114 Bạch Đằng, Hải Châu, Đà Nẵng.
Business Hours: Daily from 10:30 to 23:00 (Last Order 21:30).

Hải Sản (Seafood)

Da Nang is always a fantastic destination for seafood lovers. As a coastal city, it boasts an incredibly fresh daily catch. Be sure to try fresh seafood options such as lobster, prawns, crab, squid, and much more. For a luxurious final meal in Central Vietnam, indulging in delicious, fresh seafood in Da Nang is both enjoyable and surprisingly affordable.

Moc Quan Seafood Restaurant Da Nang

There are many seafood restaurants along the beach area in Da Nang, all serving delectable dishes made with fresh seafood. We chose to dine at Moc Quan (Vietnamese: Hải sản Mộc Quán Đà Nẵng) to sample their offerings.

The restaurant is always lively, filled with both locals and tourists. It has become increasingly popular among Korean visitors after being featured on a Korean TV show. The menu offers a wide variety of options at reasonable prices. I highly recommend this hidden gem for its fresh seafood, affordability, and excellent service!

Read more our dining experience in Moc Quan Da Nang: Affordable Seafood Restaurant.

Hải sản Mộc Quán Đà Nẵng
Address: 26 Tô Hiến Thành, An Hải, Sơn Trà, Đà Nẵng.
Business Hours: Daily from 10:30 to 22:30.

Phở bo (Beef Pho Noodle Soup)

Central Vietnam Food Guide - Pho Bo — Pho Bo

The iconic Vietnamese Beef Noodle Soup or Pho Bo is probably one of the most well-known noodles to come from Vietnam. A bowl of supremely tasty noodle soup dish is consisting of broth, rice vermicelli, herbs, and thin slices of meat. Pho is served in restaurants, street stalls, and local markets countrywide.

I enjoyed many Vietnamese dishes in Vietnam, but Pho bo was my hands-down favorite. It’s delicious and one of my favorite dishes to eat not just in Da Nang and Hoi An, but in all of Vietnam. We love to eat the most authentic Pho when visiting the local market. A down-to-earth Vietnamese experience you don’t want to miss.

Besides, we also recommended Pho Tung, one of the popular Pho restaurants in Hoi An, serving the best pho in town.

Pho Tung is located in a quaint alley in Hoi An ancient town. It is a wonderful little family shop with two dishes on the menu: standard beef pho and a bigger bowl with an egg- both are delicious. The owner is very friendly and he even comes out from the stall and shows us how to eat the pho properly with the spices and sauces. Excellent taste and texture.

Phở Tùng
Address: 51/7 Phan Chau Trinh St, Hoi An.
Business Hours: Daily from 6:00 to 10:30, 16:30 to 20:00

Price from: 25,000 – 40,000 VND/bowl. Pho Bo (standard) costs 30,000 VND.

Com Ga Hoi An (Vietnamese Chicken Rice)

The Gom Ga is Vietnam’s version of Hainanese chicken rice. You can find Gom Ga almost anywhere but the most outstanding is Com Ga Hoi An. They used young chicken and farm-fresh chicken, marinated with ginger and hand-pressed peanut oil for a golden color. While the rice is soft and flavorful as it is cooked directly in umami chicken stock. With all the ingenuity and meticulousness in processing, the Com Ga Hoi An is highly recommended.

Typically, a plate of Gom Ga is included with the shredded chicken, beautiful yellow turmeric rice, Vietnamese coriander, onions, and lime juice dressing. So tasty and refreshing!

Price from: 35,000 – 100,000 VND/plate (depending on the choice of chicken parts).

Com Ga Ba Buoi

Established in the 1950s, Com Ga Ba Buoi is one of the longest-standing eateries in Hoi An. This simple, family-run chicken rice spot offers a delightful culinary experience. The chicken is tender and flavorful, while the rice is cooked in a fragrant chicken broth, often with a hint of turmeric that gives it a beautiful golden hue. The food is delicious, though it may not be overwhelmingly impressive.

Ba Buoi Chicken Rice
Address: 22 Đ. Phan Chu Trinh, Phường Minh An, Hội An.
Business Hours: Daily from 10:30 to 14:00, 16:30 to 20:00.

Refreshing Drink

The drink menu in Central Vietnam is very diverse with traditional teas such as Bia hơi (fresh beer), herbal tea, lotus seed tea, corn tea, Vietnamese coffee, and more. There is something you’re not to be miss in Da Nang and Hoi An Food Guide.

Vietnamese iced coffee

After a full day of visiting the city, there is nothing more suitable than a cup of coffee to cool down the day. You’ll find various of coffee, from the traditional to the trendy, or the typically local to the Western-style in the yellow city of Hội An.

The famous Vietnamese iced coffee with condensed milk (Cà Phê Dá) is also cannot be missed when visiting Central Vietnam.

Bia Saigon

The Saigon Beer (or Bia Saigon) is the leading beer in Vietnam. This local brewery beer is foamy and tastes similar to regular beer but slightly less carbonated. Everywhere we go, beer is selling at the same price as coke. . The price is cheap if you are drinking beer in Vietnam, with prices starting around 15,000 VND and going up to 50,000 VND in restaurants.

MOT Lotus Herbal Tea

If you are looking for a unique tea, then try the lotus herbal tea from MOT, Hoi An.

This adorable storefront café on one of the busy old town streets offers local Vietnamese food and the best ice tea in Hoi An. Their popular Lotus Herbal Tea is a great iced tea made with lots of herbs, lotus root, and lemongrass; served with a lotus petal and lots of crushed ice. It’s hard to describe this unique blend of tea, but truly refreshing. A great refreshment after strolling in the town.

Mot Hoi An
Address: 150 Tran Phu Street, Hoi An
Business Hours: Daily 9:00 to 22:00
Price: 20,000 VND for the Herbal Drink

During our visit to Hoi An, we stopped by Faifo Coffee to try their signature drink. Faifo cafe features rooftop seating overlooking the ancient town. It is known for Instagrammable photos on social media with lovely Hoi An street views from the rooftop. While the coffee may not be the best in our opinion, it offers a fantastic view and a pleasant atmosphere.

Faifo Coffee Hoi An
Address: 130 Trần Phú, Old Town, Hội An
Business Hours: Mon-Thu from 8:30 to 21:00. Fri-Sun from 8:00 to 21:30.

Central Vietnam: Da Nang and Hoi An Food Tips

What is the must-eat food in Hoi An and Da Nang?

The Mi Quang, Cao Lau, Banh Mi are the top three must-eat signature dishes of Hoi An and Da Nang. Don’t be afraid to try them all!

Where to Find the best food in Da Nang and Hoi An?

There is not necessary to go looking for the best restaurant in Vietnam as great food is everywhere. You can find the best Vietnamese food in restaurants, cafes, cozy eateries, local markets, or food stalls in the streets.

Where to Eat in Hoi An?

You can easily find delicious food in Hoi An at the sidewalks in the old town area, or a simple eatery nestled in a small alley by the side of the road. The Hoi An Market and the food stalls along the banks of the Hoai River is also a favorite place for many tourists to discover the Hoi An local cuisine.

What are the best restaurants serving the signature local dishes in Hoi An?

We recommended Banh Mi Phuong and Banh My Queen for the best banh mi, White Rose Restaurant for the signature Banh Bao Banh Vac (white rose/pork-filled dumplings), and Mi Quang Ba Minh for the best Mì Quảng.

How Much for a meal in Da Nang and Hoi An?

Food is cheap in Vietnam and this is the same for Da Nang and Hoi An. You can spend anywhere from $1 to $20 on a meal depending on where you eat. If you stick to local street food, then a food budget of around VND 200,000 (~$10) per day will be plenty.

Overview: Da Nang and Hoi An Food Guide

All in all, we hope this Da Nang and Hoi An food guide can give you some tiny idea of where and what to eat here. Literally, you can find almost all kinds of Vietnamese traditional food in the restaurants, local markets, or street food stalls.

Give it a try and you’ll see it’s a lot simpler than you think to back with happy tummy with Vietnamese flavor to your home. Enjoy your food tour in Da Nang and Hoi An!

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Have you been to Hội An? Which foods did you try? Read more for my travel guide blog posts on my trips to Central Vietnam here.

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