If you only have one day in Hoi An, is one day enough for Hoi An day trips? You only have one day to explore this beautiful ancient city. Below are Vietnam Tour 247‘s suggestions and a much-tested itinerary for Hoi An day trips.
1. History of Hoi An
Smack-dab in the midst of Vietnam’s coastline, Hoi An was one of the most significant East Sea commercial ports for centuries. Friends, you know what happens to port cities? A blend of all the various nations and cultures that make their home there. Painted in earthy reds and mustard yellows, the architecture is a mash-up of European, Japanese, Chinese, and indigenous elements, with elaborate bridges, pagodas, and temples strewn about every corner.
It was occupied by several different communities from prehistoric times, most notably the Sa Huynh civilization from the 4th century BC to the 2nd century AD. By the second century, Hoi An was a part of the Champa Kingdom, an affluent maritime nation whose art and architecture were strongly inspired by Indian culture.
Hoi An prospered as a port for international trade from the fifteenth to the eighteenth centuries, drawing traders from China, Japan, the Netherlands, India, and Portugal. The Japanese Covered Bridge and traditional wooden dwellings, two examples of the city’s architectural and cultural legacy, are testaments to the period’s cultural richness. Hoi An was beautifully conserved, even though the town started to fade in the 18th century as a result of the Thu Bon River silting up and Da Nang becoming a more important commerce centre. When it was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1999, it attracted tourists from all over the world and was praised for its distinctive fusion of historical relevance and cultural influences.
2. Famous places for a day trips from Hoi An
The historic harbor town of Hoi An draws tourists interested in culture. However, what about the surrounding area of Hoi An? Quang Nam Province is full of remarkable locations that are simply waiting to be discovered. You’ll return from your day-long exploration of these lesser-known regions with a greater understanding and respect for Central Vietnam. These are a few good one-day trips you may do from Hoi An.
2.1 Duy Xuyen
- Address: From Nam Phuoc Village Welcome Gate, Da Nang City
- Renowned location:
My Son Sanctuary
In Hoi An day trips, you must arrived to the My Son Sanctuary, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, in around thirty minutes. Before you explore what’s remained of this historic temple complex, which the Cham erected between the 7th and the 14th centuries, you should definitely check out the superb museum.
The Museum of Sa Huynh and Cham Culture
The Museum of Sa Huynh and Cham Culture is a must-visit when you have a day trips in Hoi An if you’re interested in learning about the history of Central Vietnam. It provides insights into two of the earliest Quang Nam civilizations. Fascinating displays of burial jars and Sa Huynh pottery, together with sculptures discovered in My Son and pictures of Tra Kieu, the old Cham capital, are on show. If you’d like, you may prolong your day journey and stop at the sedge mat weaving villages in Duy Xuyen to witness the handiwork involved in creating these vibrantly colored mats utilizing natural materials and a special two-person loom.
Tra Ly Lotus Lagoons
Vietnam’s national flower, the Tra Ly lotus fields, blooms brilliantly in vast areas from April to August. You may stroll around this surreal setting and converse with the diligent lotus farmers who cultivate the plant for its delectable seeds for a little price.
2.2 Cham Islands
When you have a day trips in Hoi An, please come to Cham Islands to enjoy the sea views.
Even if the Cham Islands are worth more than a day’s journey, you can still get a taste of this stunning archipelago and its history in only one day. Situated only 12 kilometers off the coast of Hoi An, this collection of eight islands was granted World Biosphere Reserve status by UNESCO in 2009 and is renowned for its rich marine biodiversity and rainforest habitat. The protected regions around the island are home to rare kinds of fish, seaweed, and coral, making the Cham Islands an ideal destination for snorkeling and scuba diving.
Speedboat transfers, two or three snorkeling locations, a visit to a museum or pagoda, beach time, and lunch on the sand are all common features of these day outings. You can even go on your own exploration of the islands if you’re feeling really daring. To purchase a ticket for the speedboat that departs at 8 am and returns at 1 pm from Cua Dai Wharf to Bai Lang, ask for assistance from your accommodation. You may stroll to the beaches at Bai Ong and Bai Chong for a few relaxing hours by the ocean, or you can rent a wooden boat to cruise to the snorkeling places on the islands.
2.3 Dong Giang
Dong Giang is a wonderful place with a host of traditional items. Take a note to your “Hoi An Day Trips” travel list. Culture and environment lovers will find amazing adventures in Dong Giang’s wooded highlands. Dong Giang’s gently sloping tea slopes are perfect for strolling. Trails made of dirt wind around and over the hills, offering breathtaking vistas at every corner. Request a visit to Y Kong’s home, an esteemed elder and leader of the Co Tu ethnic group in Dong Giang, from your tour operator. Y Kong is pleased to answer inquiries about the Co Tu people, and his home is a little museum of Co Tu culture. Take in the breathtaking wood sculptures, hear the sounds of Co Tu music on bamboo instruments and animal-skin drums, and hear tales of hunts in the jungles.
The Co Tu hamlet of Bho Hoong is located across the Kon River and is about thirty minutes’ drive from Y Kong’s home. Although there are several Co Tu communities in western Quang Nam, this one stands out for having excellent Moong thatched dwellings and a Guol community house. Those who are interested in learning about Co Tu culture are cordially welcomed by the inhabitants. You’ll get to experience local cuisine, go through the narrow streets of the town, see how rattan and Co Tu brocade are woven, and get a taste of rural life.
3. Activities in Hoi An day trips
One day in Hoi An (Hoi An 1 day itinerary) offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and relaxation. Here’s a suggested itinerary to make the most of your day for Hoi An day trips:
3.1 Take a sip of Vietnamese coffee
You’re going to need coffee in order to get your day started properly, you must try this drink if you have one day in Hoi An. Hoi An’s Vietnamese coffee is a lovely experience that perfectly encapsulates the spirit of the town. Enjoy a cup of the distinctive coconut coffee or traditional Vietnamese drip coffee. The calm atmosphere of Hoi An and the rich, fragrant coffee provide it the ideal setting for unwinding and cultural absorption. This small delight adds to your experience in this quaint village and gives you a flavor of local life.
3.2 Take a leisurely stroll around the city
If you have just one day in Hoi An (for Hoi An day trips), you should definitely set aside at least a few hours for exploring the city on foot. (Especially if you enjoy taking pictures and people-watching.) Take a stroll across the 16th-century Japanese Bridge and at least stroll by one of the several temples. You should definitely visit the Ba Mu Temple Gate, which has an amazing circular decoration.
3.3 Eat Bánh Mì (Banh mi)
Banh mi (Bread) is one the must-try Hoi An food in day trips.The baguette was introduced to the natives in the 1800s while France was a colonial power. But since it was a French creation, they couldn’t alter how it was consumed. That is, until the Le family gave the baguette a unique twist in the 1950s, making it a very reasonably priced eatable.
A variety of toppings, including Vietnamese ham, pate, mayonnaise, Laughing Cow cheese, cucumber, coriander, chillies, and spring onions, are often stuffed inside the light, airy baguettes. And the greatest spot to grab one is from a street cart made of metal that has a few plastic stools strewn about it or you can also try Banh Mi at some famous places like Banh Mi Phuong.
3.4 Grab a juice
In Vietnam, street food is abundant, and I firmly think that one of the finest ways to experience a nation is to eat its cuisine. But I strongly suggest getting a juice from one of the roadside vendors if you need something to wash it down.
Although sugarcane juice is quite popular, on this very hot and sticky day, we much enjoyed the refreshing coldness of freshly squeezed pomegranate juice. Furthermore, we were smitten with the notion that it only cost around 50p. How delightful.
3.5 Admire the lanterns (and maybe make your own)
For Hoi An day trips, we introduce you to another activity in this ancient town, watching the Hoi An lanterns. The charming paper lanterns that have become a Hoi An icon were brought centuries ago by the Japanese and are now significant artisans in the area. Depending on the color, the lanterns’ meanings vary, and an entire street in the old town is fully illuminated with a multitude of lanterns dangling over the pavement.
A lantern is a wonderful memento from Hoi An, but if you’d rather have something more special, you may take a lesson on constructing lanterns. With a full day in Hoi An, you can definitely fit a lantern-making class into your schedule.
3.6 Sip a drink in a tavern along the river
Thu Bon River meanders through Hoi An and is lined by what seems like an endless array of bars, eateries, and coffee shops. When dusk falls, one of these cozy little locations is a perfect place to get a drink and people-watch. At this point in the day, the crowds start to thin out, and the atmosphere is generally rather relaxed.
3.7 Watch the sunset from a Hoi An riverboat
Hoi An can be quite serene, as seen by a sunset boat down the Thu Bon River, which is a great way to conclude your day there. With the assistance of a charming boatman, you may climb into a wooden boat and glide off the riverbank for a tranquil voyage that lasts for hours as the sky becomes pink and orange. As the sun sank below the horizon, lantern-hung boats along the river started to flicker magically. This will certainly be one of the activities you will enjoy most during your Hoi An day trips.
3.8 Examine the night market
After taking a stroll down the river to witness the many hues of the lanterns glimmering and bouncing off the pitch-black water, spend your final hour in Hoi An perusing the trinkets and enjoying a last sample of local street cuisine at the night market.
4. Discover Day trips from Hoi An with Vietnam Tour 247
Welcome to Vietnam Tour 247, your go-to travel partner for exploring Vietnam’s undiscovered beauties and cultural riches. You don’t need to search much farther for the top day tours departing from Hoi An. We provide experiences that are carefully chosen to capture the spirit of this magical place, making your stay both enlightening and unforgettable. Hoi An is the ideal starting point for a range of day activities that appeal to all interests because of its attractive historic town and gorgeous surroundings.
In addition, we also have a number of long tours that stop in Hoi An to explore that you can try:
Hoi An & Hue Sites And Active Package Tour – 06 Days
Best Of The Central Vietnam From Hoi An | Authentic Discovery – 06 Days
Danang & Center Vietnam | Package Holiday – 06 Days
Experience The Best Of The Central Vietnam From Hoi An | Authentic Discovery
Our goal at Vietnam Tour 247 is to give you outstanding service and life-changing adventures. Our experienced guides ensure that every day excursion is customized to your interests and preferences since they are passionate about showcasing Hoi An’s beauty and culture.
Take advantage of the greatest day adventures, Hoi An has to offer by joining us at Vietnam Tour 247. While you discover the treasures of this stunning area, let us help you make lifelong memories.
5. In Conclusion
In summary, Hoi An day trips offer a perfect blend of cultural heritage, natural beauty, and local immersion. Whether you are exploring the ancient ruins of My Son Sanctuary, snorkeling at the Cham Islands. These excursions provide a deeper perspective on Central Vietnam beyond the Old Town. Easy to organize and incredibly diverse, a well-planned day trip is the best way to turn a brief visit into an unforgettable travel experience.
If you want to have a trip to Hoi An, please contact us by:
- Website Vietnamtours247
- Hotline: (+84) 979133907
- WhatsApp: (+84) 916289247
- Email: sales@vietnamtour247.com
- Vietnam: 128 Ngoc Tri St, Long Bien District, Hanoi
6. FAQs
1. What is the best time of year to take a day trip from Hoi An?
The ideal time is during the dry season (February to August). During these months, the weather is sunny and the seas are calm, which is essential if you plan on visiting the Cham Islands or taking a boat tour along the Thu Bon River.
2. Do I need to book a guided tour, or can I explore on my own?
It depends on the destination. Locations like An Bang Beach or Tra Que Village are easy to reach by bicycle or Grab. However, for My Son Sanctuary or Ba Na Hills, booking a tour is often better because it includes transport and a guide who can explain the complex history and architecture.
3. How long do most day trips usually last?
Most day trips are designed to be half-day (4–5 hours) or full-day (8–10 hours).
- Half-day: My Son Sanctuary or local craft villages (Kim Bong, Thanh Ha).
- Full-day: Ba Na Hills, Hue Imperial City, or snorkeling at Cham Islands.
