Guide Roam Hoi An

With its well-preserved Ancient Town listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Hoi An offers a unique blend of history, culture, and affordability that makes it a budget backpacker’s paradise.

Getting There and Around

Hoi An is easily accessible from major Vietnamese cities. If you're coming from Da Nang, take the Number 1 bus from Da Nang Central Station for only 30,000 VND (about $1.30). The journey takes around 30-45 minutes, and buses run frequently throughout the day. Alternatively, taxis from Da Nang to Hoi An will cost around 300,000 VND ($13), but for budget travelers, the bus is your best bet.

Once in Hoi An, the best way to navigate the town is by foot or bicycle. Renting a bicycle costs around 30,000 VND ($1.30) per day. Most hostels and hotels can provide rentals. As Hoi An is compact, you can easily explore the picturesque streets, lantern-filled alleyways, and riverside views on two wheels or by walking.

Where to Stay

For budget accommodation, look no further than the Old Town area. The Sunflower Hotel and Backpacker Hostel offer dormitory beds starting at 200,000 VND ($8.70) per night. Each spot is clean, social, and centrally located, making them ideal for meeting fellow travelers. The dorms usually come with free Wi-Fi, breakfast, and sometimes even a free walking tour of the city.

If you prefer a quieter environment, consider staying in the An Bang Beach area. The An Bang Beach Homestay offers private rooms from about 400,000 VND ($17.40) with a short walk to the beach. Besides the beach vibes, this area provides a relaxed atmosphere and a chance to experience the local life away from the bustling tourist spots.

What to Eat

When in Hoi An, do not miss the chance to try the local specialties. One must-try dish is Cao Lau, a noodle dish served with pork and herbs, which costs around 30,000 VND ($1.30) at popular places like Cao Lau Thanh. Another local favorite is the Bahn Mi, sold from street vendors like the famous Bahn Mi Phuong, with prices ranging from 20,000 to 35,000 VND ($0.87 to $1.52). The combination of crispy baguette, savory pork, and fresh vegetables makes for a filling meal on the go.

For a refreshing drink, head to one of the many local cafes for Vietnamese iced coffee (cà phê sữa đá) costing around 15,000 VND ($0.65). Don’t forget to try the local beer, Huda, priced at about 15,000 VND ($0.65) per bottle if you’re looking to unwind after a long day of exploring. Many cafes also offer cheap vegetarian options for around 25,000 VND ($1.10) that cater to all budgets.

Key Activities and Attractions

The Ancient Town is undoubtedly Hoi An's main attraction. Entry to the Ancient Town costs 120,000 VND ($5.20), which gives you access to five attractions, including museums and historic houses. Make sure to visit the Japanese Covered Bridge and the many lantern-filled streets that come alive at night. The entrance ticket is valid for 24 hours, so you can hop in and out to explore the area at your leisure.

Don’t miss the Hoi An Night Market, which opens daily from 5 PM and offers everything from handmade crafts to delicious street food. It’s the perfect place to grab a bite while enjoying local performances. You might want to set aside about 50,000 VND ($2.20) to sample various dishes while you stroll through the market.

Practical Tips and What to Know

Here are some essential tips for your stay in Hoi An that can help you maximize your experience without breaking the bank:

• Carry cash as many places do not accept credit cards; most street food vendors only take cash.
• Visit during the lantern festival (on the full moon) to see the town lit up with thousands of lanterns, creating a magical atmosphere.
• Be mindful of the weather; Hoi An can get quite hot and humid, so stay hydrated and wear sunscreen.
• If you're planning to take a cooking class, prices vary, but you can find budget-friendly options starting around 400,000 VND ($17.40) in cooking schools like Red Bridge.