Step into a living postcard in Hoi An, Vietnam’s enchanting UNESCO-listed ancient town. As we enter 2025, this riverside gem continues to captivate travelers with its timeless charm, vibrant culture, and unforgettable experiences. From lantern-lit streets to countryside adventures, here are the 10 best things to do in Hoi An for an extraordinary visit.

1. Get Lost in the Ancient Town

Why? Hoi An’s car-free historic center is Vietnam’s best-preserved trading port, blending Chinese, Japanese, and European influences.

Don’t Miss:

• The iconic Japanese Covered Bridge, featuring a hidden temple within its structure.
• Colorful merchant houses like Tan Ky and Phung Hung, showcasing intricate architecture.
• Assembly Halls adorned with elaborate carvings and vibrant decorations.

Pro Tip: Visit at dusk when the golden hour lights up the mustard-yellow buildings, creating a magical atmosphere perfect for photography.

2. Join the Lantern Festival (Monthly Full Moon Celebrations)

Why? Hoi An transforms into a magical wonderland when thousands of silk lanterns glow under the moonlight.

2025 Festival Dates: Check the lunar calendar for exact dates.

Best Experiences:

• Float a candle-lit lantern on the Thu Bon River, making a wish as you send it afloat.
• Enjoy traditional music performances in the streets, adding to the festive ambiance.
• Sample mooncakes during the Mid-Autumn Festival in September 2025, a delightful treat for all ages.

3. Take a Cooking Class with a Twist

Why? Hoi An’s cuisine is legendary, and new experiences in 2025 elevate the culinary learning experience:

• Join farm-to-table cycling tours that take you to Tra Que Herb Village, where you can gather fresh ingredients.
• Participate in market-to-meal classes with celebrity chefs, learning tips and tricks to recreate Vietnamese flavors at home.
• Explore vegan cooking workshops that cater to dietary trends, ensuring everyone can enjoy the local cuisine.

Must-Learn Dishes: Master the art of making Cao Lau noodles and white rose dumplings to impress your friends back home.

4. Cruise the Thu Bon River at Sunset

Why? The waterway that made Hoi An prosperous offers new perspectives.

2025 Trend: Experience private bamboo boat picnics with local musicians, creating a serene atmosphere as you glide along the water.

Classic Choice: Opt for a sunset cocktail cruise on a traditional junk, sipping local drinks as the sun dips below the horizon.

Adventure Option: Try stand-up paddleboarding through the enchanting water coconut forests, perfect for both beginners and seasoned paddlers.

5. Discover Hoi An’s Best New Café (2025 Edition)

The café scene in Hoi An continues to evolve! Current hotspots include:

• The May Coffee: Enjoy rooftop views while sipping on unique coconut coffee flights.
• Phin Coffee Club: Experience modern takes on traditional Vietnamese coffee, perfect for coffee aficionados.
• Reaching Out 2.0: This expanded silent tea house concept offers a tranquil space to unwind while supporting local artisans.

6. Get Custom-Made Clothing (Still the Best in Vietnam)

2025 Updates:

• Eco-friendly fabrics are now widely available, allowing you to shop sustainably.
• Premium tailors offer 3D body scanning to ensure the perfect fit for your custom garments.
• The 24-hour service remains standard at over 300 shops throughout the town.

Top Picks:

• Yaly Couture for high-end fashion.
• Bebe Tailor for trendy styles.
• A Dong Silk for traditional áo dài outfits.

7. Day Trip to My Son Sanctuary

New for 2025: Augmented reality tours bring the ancient Cham ruins to life, offering an immersive experience like never before.

Insider Tip: Purchase earlier access tickets to beat the heat and crowds for a more enjoyable visit.

Combination Tours: Consider tours that include a visit to Thanh Ha pottery village, where you can witness traditional pottery-making techniques.

Why Go? These 4th-century Hindu temples rival Cambodia’s Angkor Wat, providing a glimpse into the region’s rich history.

8. Bike Through Rice Fields & Villages

2025’s Best Routes:

• Cycle from Cam Thanh to An Bang Beach, stopping at hidden cafes along the way to recharge.
• Visit Tra Que Vegetable Village for herb garden workshops that engage the whole family.
• Explore the new Sunrise Cycling Trail along the De Vong River, offering scenic views and tranquil surroundings.

Rental Tip: E-bikes are now widely available, making it easier for everyone to enjoy the ride without tiring out.

9. Experience the Hoi An Memories Show

Vietnam’s most spectacular performance just got better!

2025 Upgrades: Enhanced pyrotechnics and VR elements bring the show to life in new ways.

Storyline: The show features 500 actors who depict 400 years of Hoi An’s history through music and dazzling performances.

Best Seats: Consider splurging on VIP central sections for the best viewing experience.

Show Times: Performances are held nightly, except Mondays, so plan accordingly!

10. Beach Hop Along the Coast

2025 Beach Guide:

• An Bang Beach: Known for its trendy beach clubs, with Soul Kitchen still reigning supreme for a lively atmosphere.
• Hidden Gem: Check out Ha My Beach, where new luxury resorts are springing up, offering a quieter retreat.
• Cua Dai Beach: Recently recovered from erosion, it features new boardwalks for easier access and a pleasant stroll along the shore.

Don’t Miss: Full-moon beach parties at The Deckhouse, where you can enjoy music, food, and a vibrant atmosphere.

Bonus: 2025 Seasonal Highlights

• February-March: Experience the vibrant decorations of the Tet Festival, the Vietnamese Lunar New Year.
• June-August: Participate in dragon fruit harvest tours, where you can taste this tropical delight fresh from the farm.
• December: Witness the special Christmas lantern displays that light up the town, creating a festive atmosphere.

Planning Your 2025 Trip?

Stay updated on:

• New direct flights to Da Nang, just 30 minutes from Hoi An, making travel more accessible.
• Vietnam’s latest e-visa policies, simplifying entry requirements for international travelers.
• Sustainable tourism initiatives, including the plastic-free Hoi An program, which aims to protect the environment.

Hoi An remains Vietnam’s most enchanting destination, blending centuries of history with contemporary comforts. Whether it’s your first visit or your fifth, these 2025 experiences promise magic around every lantern-lit corner.

Ready to explore? The timeless beauty of Hoi An awaits!