Hello everyone, I’m Alba Bertrand, a travel enthusiast, and I recently had the chance to explore the charming city of Hoi An during a solo 5-day trip. In this article, I’ll share my experience and offer you a Hoi An 5-day itinerary, based on my personal 5 days in Hoi An. If you’re wondering what to do in Hoi An in 5 days, join me as I wander through the picturesque alleys, bustling markets, and serene beaches of this magical destination. Get ready to explore Hoi An with me!
During my recent 21-day trip to Vietnam, my Hoi An 5-day itinerary stood out as particularly memorable. The city, with its unique blend of culture, history, and natural beauty, immediately captivated me. Hoi An offers a peaceful atmosphere and a rich cultural heritage that make it truly special. Through its narrow streets, ancient houses, and vibrant markets, I discovered a city that feels frozen in time yet remains lively and welcoming. It was a true pleasure to immerse myself in this unique ambiance.
Thanks to AUTOUR ASIA, local travel agency in Vietnam, which perfectly organized my stay, I was able to enjoy every moment to the fullest. If you’re wondering what to do in Hoi An, follow my 5 days in Hoi An to uncover all the magic this city has to offer. From cultural tours to relaxing beaches, each day of this Hoi An itinerary was an enriching adventure.
Upon arriving in Hoi An, I decided to start with the heart of the city: the UNESCO World Heritage-listed old town. The Hoi An 5-day itinerary begins with a leisurely stroll through Hoi An’s narrow streets, flanked by traditional wooden houses and colonial buildings. The Japanese bridge immediately captivated me with its intricate carvings and unique atmosphere. After visiting the ancient Tan Ky House, I wandered around the local market and indulged in Hoi An must-try foods like Banh Mi and Cao Lau.
What to do in Hoi An? In the afternoon, I joined a cooking class, an enriching experience. The evening walk along the Thu Bon River allowed me to enjoy the magic of lanterns lighting up the city.
On the second day of my Hoi An 5-day itinerary, I visited the famous Tra Que village, known for its organic vegetables grown without chemicals. During this excursion, I became a real farmer, participating in daily activities like planting and harvesting fresh herbs such as coriander, mint, and basil.
What to do in Hoi An in 5 days? After a morning in the fields, I joined a Vietnamese cooking class. Guided by a local chef, I picked fresh vegetables to prepare traditional dishes like sautéed eggplant, chicken with rice, and the famous Vietnamese pancake, Banh Xeo. This enriching experience gave me a deeper appreciation for Vietnamese cuisine and left me with treasured memories of rural life, working with buffaloes, and cycling through picturesque landscapes.
What to do in Hoi An in 5 days? The third day was dedicated to exploring local culture and crafts. Hoi An is renowned for its craft villages, and I was fortunate to visit the Hoi An silk village, where I observed the silk-making process. I also explored traditional craft villages, including those of potters and carpenters.
In the afternoon, I visited the tailor shops, a must for Hoi An visitors, where I had a custom suit made. The day ended with a visit to the marble mountains, a peaceful spot offering spectacular views of the region. In the evening, I enjoyed Hoi An’s night market, picking up some souvenirs and tasting local specialties like Banh Xeo.
The fourth day of my Hoi An 5-day itinerary was more adventurous, featuring excursions around the area. My Son Sanctuary was a highlight, an archaeological site where I explored the remnants of Hindu temples from the Champa kingdom. In the afternoon, I cycled through scenic rice fields and quaint villages. My 5 days in Hoi An continued with a boat trip to Cham Islands, where I enjoyed snorkeling in crystal-clear waters. The day concluded with a magical sunset cruise on the Thu Bon River.
What to do in Hoi An in 5 days? On the final day of my Hoi An 5-day itinerary, I opted for relaxation before leaving this beautiful city. I started with a traditional Vietnamese massage at a spa, a rejuvenating experience. I then enjoyed a fantastic Vietnamese coffee in Hoi An's old town. In the afternoon, I visited museums in Hoi An to learn more about the city's history and ended the day with a visit to Chuc Thanh Pagoda, a serene Buddhist temple. The evening was spent picking up last-minute souvenirs.
My Hoi An 5-day itinerary was an incredible experience, blending cultural discoveries, relaxation, and adventure. Hoi An is a city to be explored at your own pace, and I’m thrilled to have chosen this itinerary to immerse myself in this unique experience.
For an unforgettable stay in Hoi An, here are some practical tips for your Hoi An itinerary.
Umbrella or raincoat in the rainy season: If you visit Hoi An between August and December, prepare for occasional showers by bringing a lightweight umbrella or raincoat.
Adapt your visits to the weather: If you arrive during the rainy season in Hoi An, focus on indoor activities like visiting pottery museums or temples, saving outdoor activities for sunny days.
Get custom-made clothing: Hoi An is famous for its tailors and fashion designers. You can have custom clothing made, with items ready in 1 to 2 days.
Enjoy local cuisine: Don’t miss Hoi An's typical dishes, available in many of the city’s restaurants and street stalls. A Vietnamese coffee or local dessert will perfectly complete your meal.
By applying these tips, I had a Hoi An 5-day itinerary that was perfectly balanced between cultural discoveries, relaxation, and gastronomic delights. I hope you have a memorable trip to Hoi An.
In summary, if you’re wondering what to do in Hoi An in 5 days, this Hoi An 5-day itinerary offers a perfect blend of cultural exploration, outdoor adventures, and relaxation. Each of these 5 days in Hoi An allowed me to immerse myself in the richness of local culture and fully enjoy the beauty of this unique city. I’m thrilled to have explored Hoi An at my own pace, and I highly recommend this Hoi An 5-day itinerary to anyone looking for an unforgettable experience.
Thanks to AUTOUR ASIA, Travel agency in Hanoi Vietnam, the local French-speaking agency in Vietnam, for creating my dream trip to Hoi An, Vietnam. I highly recommend this agency to anyone planning to visit Vietnam.
Hoi An has many beautiful and cozy homestays offering authentic experiences.
🏡 Budget Homestays (Affordable & Comfortable)
Under The Coconut Tree Homestay – Located near An Bang Beach, perfect for budget travelers.
Hoianese Center Homestay – Cozy stay near the Ancient Town, with friendly hosts.
Bamboo Garden Homestay – Quiet, surrounded by nature, and a great value.
🌿 Mid-range Homestays (Charming & Cultural)
Countryside Moon Homestay – Peaceful & local atmosphere, ideal for nature lovers.
Hoi An Rustic Homestay – Offers bicycle rental and eco-friendly rooms.
Lana Villa Homestay – Located by the Thu Bon River, a relaxing escape.
🏨 Luxury Boutique Homestays (Comfort & Exclusive)
An Bang Beach Hideaway Homestay – Right on the beach, private and stylish.
Hoi An Riverside Bamboo Homestay – Offers river views and a tranquil setting.
Maison de Tau Homestay – A French colonial-style homestay with a beautiful garden.
For the best experience, stay near the Ancient Town for culture or near An Bang Beach for relaxation. 🏡✨
A 5-day itinerary in Hoi An combines history, nature, food, and relaxation.
Day 1: Arrival & Explore Hoi An Ancient Town
Walk through Japanese Covered Bridge, Old Houses, and Central Market.
Visit Tan Ky or Phung Hung Ancient House.
Enjoy a boat ride on the Thu Bon River at sunset.
Explore the Night Market and Lantern Market.
Day 2: Cultural & Outdoor Adventure
Join a cycling tour to Tra Que Vegetable Village 🚴.
Take part in a Vietnamese cooking class 🍜.
Visit Bay Mau Water Coconut Forest, enjoy a basket boat ride and fishing experience 🛶.
Day 3: Relax & Beach Day
Spend the morning at An Bang Beach 🏖️, try fresh seafood.
Enjoy a spa or herbal massage.
Explore Cam Thanh Village for a local experience.
Day 4: Day Trip to My Son Sanctuary & Handicrafts Tour
Visit My Son Sanctuary 🏛️ (ancient Cham temple ruins).
Explore Kim Bong Carpentry Village or Thanh Ha Pottery Village.
Get custom-made clothing from a tailor shop 👗.
Day 5: Free Time & Departure
Visit Cua Dai Beach for a quiet morning.
Do last-minute shopping for souvenirs at Hoi An Market.
Enjoy a relaxed coffee or Banh Mi before departing.
This itinerary offers a balance of cultural discovery, relaxation, and adventure in Vietnam’s most charming town! 🌴🏯🚴✨
Hoi An has a tropical climate, so choosing the right season is key to enjoying your trip:
February - May (Spring - Best Season) 🌸☀️ – The best time to visit with pleasant temperatures (22-30°C), low humidity, and clear skies. Ideal for beaches, walking tours, and sightseeing.
June - August (Summer - Beach Season) 🏖️☀️ – Hot and sunny (28-35°C), perfect for beach lovers, but the Ancient Town can feel hot and crowded.
September - November (Autumn - Less Crowded) 🍂🌧️ – Fewer tourists, mild temperatures, but occasional rain and possibility of flooding.
December - January (Winter - Cool & Dry) ❄️ – Cooler weather (18-24°C), good for sightseeing, but not ideal for swimming at the beach.
For the best experience, visit between February and May when the weather is perfect for all activities.
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