CityBuddy
Ancient Town
Best time to visit
Evenings are magical with lantern-lit streets and cooler temperatures for walking. February to April offers dry, pleasant weather perfect for exploring.
Budget tips
Entry to the town area is free, but a ticket is required for heritage sites generally costing around $5. Save money by visiting multiple sites with a combined ticket valid for several days.
Recommended for
Culture lovers, Couples, Night market enthusiasts, Photography fans
Plan your visit
2-3 hours
About
Quick facts: Narrow streets glow at night with hundreds of colorful lanterns reflecting off the Thu Bon River. Over 800 well-preserved buildings showcase a blend of Vietnamese, Chinese, and Japanese architectural styles.
Highlights: Local tailors can stitch custom silk garments in just one day, a craft dating back over 100 years. A nightly lantern festival invites visitors to release paper lanterns onto the river, creating a kaleidoscope of lights that symbolize wishes and hope.
Insider tips
- Wear comfortable shoes to navigate uneven cobblestones and narrow alleys.
- Capture stunning photos at the Japanese Covered Bridge during early morning light.
- Skip peak hours around 6 to 8 PM to avoid crowded markets and get uninterrupted views.
- Visit tailors early in the day to see craftsmanship and avoid last-minute rushes.
Photo gallery
Have you heard of free walking tours?
After traveling to 30+ countries, there's one thing I wish someone had told me from day one, and it completely changed how I experience new cities.
Free walking tours. Yes, actually free. No credit card needed. No catch.
Local guide, 2-3 hours
Major sights, hidden gems, local stories
100% tip-based
Guides earn only tips, so they give their absolute best
You tip what feels right
At the end, just tip whatever you feel is right
I've done these in dozens of cities and they've been the highlight of almost every trip. If you're visiting Hoi An, Vietnam, do this on your first day. You'll thank me later.
Reviews
No reviews yet
