Hoi An: a town so charming, it’ll make you want to stay forever. But with so many tours to choose from, how do you know which ones are worth your time and money?

That’s where we come in. This blog gives you a compiled list of the 7 best Hoi An tours with locals. These tours will give you an authentic Hoi An experience, and you’ll learn all about the town’s culture and history from the people who know it best.

So whether you’re a foodie, a history buff, or just looking for a unique adventure, we’ve got the perfect tour for you. So what are you waiting for? Book your tour today and start planning your trip to Hoi An!

Hoi An Ancient Town Walking Tour

It’s a journey through time. 

Step back in time and immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of Hoi An’s Ancient Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that has preserved the soul of Vietnamese culture for centuries. Our local guides, with their wealth of knowledge and passion for their hometown, will lead you on an unforgettable journey through the narrow, winding streets of this charming town.

Typically, our tour may begin with the iconic Japanese Covered Bridge. This beautiful 18th-century bridge, adorned with intricate carvings, is a testament to Hoi An’s historical connection with Japan. Its unique architecture and vibrant red hue make it a favorite among photographers.

Our journey continues to Tan Ky Old House, a 200-year-old merchant’s house that offers a glimpse into Vietnam’s past. With its unique blend of Chinese, Japanese, and Vietnamese architectural elements, Tan Ky Old House is a living museum of Hoi An’s rich cultural heritage.

We then make our way to the Traditional Art Performance Theater. Here, you’ll have the chance to experience Vietnam’s vibrant performing arts scene. From traditional music and dance performances to the Quang Nam version of bingo games (called Bai Choi), this theater is a cultural hub that showcases the town’s rich artistic traditions.

Next to the theater, there’s a museum that exhibits the most typical lifestyles of Hoi An locals. Passing through the museum spaces, our guide will expand your horizons about Hoi An and Vietnam in general.

We then head to the Fujian Assembly Hall. Built in 1690 as a place for Chinese immigrants from Fujian province to socialize and worship, this hall is a stunning example of Chinese architecture. The ornate gate, colorful temple, huge spiral incense, and tranquil courtyard are sure to leave you in awe.

Within this tour, you’ll explore the old streets of Hoi An as well. Lined with well-preserved merchant houses, art galleries, and teahouses, these streets echo with tales of the town’s bustling past as a major trading port. As you stroll through these streets, you’ll be captivated by the town’s enchanting atmosphere.

If you’re a shopping fanatic, Hoi An, with a plethora of shops, will certainly make you love it more. For example, our guide would show you the best souvenir stores or places to get your new clothes done by a local tailor. Whether it’s a purchase for yourself or someone else as a gift, you’ll find something there.

Book your Hoi An Ancient Town Walking Tour right here!

Basket Boat Tour in Cam Thanh Coconut Forest

This tour allows you to explore the stunning scenery of the coconut forest and learn about the traditional fishing culture of the local people. Also, our guide will be happy to tell you about the fascinating history of the place in relation to Vietnamese wartime. 

The tour begins with a welcome drink (coconut water) and a brief introduction to the palm forest. Then, you will board a traditional basket boat and set off on your journey.

As you glide through the calm waters of the river, you will be surrounded by towering coconut palms and lush green vegetation. You will also have the opportunity to see local fishermen at work, using their traditional methods to catch fish and crabs.

During the tour, you will also have the chance to try your hand at catching grabs from your basket boat. But that’s not yet the funniest part.

The craziest show happens when you join the boat dancing with the local sailors. You’ll feel like you’re in the middle of a stormy sea because the boat keeps spinning around.

Moreover, we can incorporate a cooking class to every basket boat tour to enhance your interaction with the locals. Through the lens of culinary, you’ll understand more about Vietnamese cuisines, how we make daily meals, and what’s so special about them.

Book your Cooking Class & Basket Boat Tour right here!

Cycling Tour to Hoi An’s Countryside

If you’re not going to the countryside of Hoi An, you miss a huge part of it. Our Hoi An Countryside Bike tour will give you a rustic adventure about authentic Vietnam’s rural life you’ll never forget.

The tour begins with a cycle through vast paddy fields. As you pedal along the dirt paths, you’ll witness the timeless scenes of farmers tending to their crops. The emerald green fields stretching out under the open sky offer a serene and picturesque landscape that is quintessentially Vietnamese.

Riding water buffaloes is a once-in-a-lifetime experience as well. The animal is integral to Vietnamese agriculture, and thus, a symbol of the country.

Under the guidance of a friendly local farmer, you’ll learn how to mount and ride these gentle creatures. This experience provides a glimpse into traditional farming practices and connects you with the local culture in a fun and engaging way.

Your journey continues to Tra Que Vegetable Village, a small farming community known for its high-quality vegetables and herbs. Here, you’ll get hands-on experience in organic farming methods. You’ll learn about the traditional techniques used by the villagers, from preparing the land and fertilizing it with seaweed from the local river, to selecting the seeds and planting them.

After the farming experience, you’ll be treated to a delicious local drink made from basil seeds grown from the village. As you savor the flavors of the traditional Hoi An drink, you’ll appreciate the hard work and dedication that goes into every dish.

Tip: To make the most of your Hoi An countryside traveling, continue the bike trip to Cam Thanh Coconut Water Forest where you take the basket boat riding as well.

Book your whole-packed Bike Tour to Hoi An Countryside here!

Local Street Food Tour

Embark on a gastronomic adventure with our Hoi An Local Street Food tour. This tour is a culinary journey through the vibrant street food scene of Hoi An, led by our local guides who are passionate foodies.

The tour may start at the busting street food stalls, where you’ll be introduced to a variety of local delicacies. From the famous Banh Mi sandwiches to the delicious Cao Lau noodles, you’ll get to taste the flavors that define Hoi An’s culinary landscape.

As we navigate through the narrow alleys, we’ll stop at various family-run eateries. You’ll get to taste dishes like White Rose Dumplings, Fried Wontons, and Chicken Rice. Each dish is prepared using traditional methods that have been passed down through generations. 

Plus, no food tour would be complete without dessert! We may end our tour with a sweet treat — Che — a traditional Vietnamese dessert made from local fruits, beans, herbs, and glutinous rice.

Our Hoi An Local Street Food Tour is not just about tasting food, but also about understanding Hoi An’s rich culinary heritage. So come join us on this flavorful journey!

My Son Sanctuary Tour

It’s a journey into Vietnam’s spiritual past.

My Son Sanctuary was the religious and political capital of the Champa Kingdom for most of its existence. Nestled in a valley, this site boasts a collection of Hindu temples dedicated to Shiva, showcasing the spiritual beliefs of the ancient Champa civilization.

The tour begins with an exploration of the temple ruins. Despite ravages of time and war, many structures still stand. Their red brick towers and intricate carvings make a testament to the architectural prowess of the Cham people.

The tour includes a traditional Cham dance performance. This is a unique opportunity to experience the living culture of the Cham people, descendants of the original inhabitants of My Son.

We’ll also walk you through the surrounding jungle. The verdant landscape, punctuated by streams and rich with wildlife, adds to the mystical charm of My Son.

Book your My Son Sanctuary Tour here! 

A  Full One-day Tour to Explore All Famous Gems

Why pick a separate tour while you can experience all gems in one single day? Rely on us for a full day of discovery in Hoi An!

Your journey begins with a warm greeting from our enthusiastic tour guide at your hotel. From there, we’ll set off on bicycles, the perfect mode of transport to truly experience the charm of Hoi An’s rural and countryside areas.

Our first stop is the Tra Que Vegetable Village, where you’ll get a hands-on experience of traditional farming practices. You’ll even get to ride a water buffalo, an unforgettable experience that offers a glimpse into local life.

Next, we’ll cycle to Cam Thanh’s coconut palm forest. As we described it, this ecological wonder is best explored on a basket boat, allowing you to fully appreciate the beauty of this unique landscape. You’ll also get to witness local fishing techniques and enjoy some light-hearted entertainment with a dance performance.

After working up an appetite, we’ll stop for lunch at a local restaurant. Here, you can sample authentic Vietnamese dishes and enjoy the hospitality of the locals.

The afternoon is dedicated to exploring Hoi An Ancient Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Our walking tour will take you through architectural marvels like the Tan Ky merchant house and the Japanese Covered Bridge. You’ll also get to enjoy traditional dance and folk song performances that bring the town’s rich cultural heritage to life.

The day’s activities also include a visit to a lantern workshop. Here, you’ll learn the art of lantern making and even get to create your own silk lantern to take home as a memento of your trip.

As evening falls, we’ll take a serene boat ride on the Thu Bon river. In keeping with local tradition, you’ll release paper lanterns onto the water and make wishes as they float away.

We’ll end the day with a delicious dinner at another local restaurant before returning you safely to your hotel. This full-packed tour promises an immersive experience of Hoi An that you won’t forget!

Book your Hoi An one-day tour right here!

Da Nang’s Marble Mountains

If you’ve explored all of Hoi An while having more time there, think about extending your adventure to the nearby city, Da Nang.

Just a short drive from Hoi An, the Marble Mountains in Da Nang present a unique opportunity to delve into Vietnam’s natural beauty and spiritual heritage. And guess what. If you’re someone who loves to climb mountains, it’s definitely a go-to. 

The Marble Mountains are a cluster of five marble and limestone hills, each named after the five elements: Metal, Water, Wood, Fire, and Earth. These mountains are home to several Buddhist and Hindu grottoes, providing a serene environment for introspection and exploration.

As you ascend the steps carved into the mountains, you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of verdant landscapes and the sparkling blue sea. The mountains’ intricate cave systems and stunning pagodas are a testament to the region’s rich spiritual history.

One of the highlights of this tour is the chance to visit local stone-carving villages at the foot of the mountains. Here, you’ll witness skilled artisans transforming raw marble into intricate statues and souvenirs.

Joining a tour to the Marble Mountains is easy from Hoi An. We provide comfortable transportation and knowledgeable guides who will ensure you have an enriching experience. This tour is an excellent addition to your Hoi An itinerary, offering a deeper understanding of Vietnam’s natural treasures.

So why wait? Extend your adventure beyond Hoi An and discover the wonders of the Marble Mountains in Da Nang!

Book your Marble Mountains Tour right here!

Overall, there are different Hoi An tours to help you explore the best of the city. From famous historical sites to the countryside of Hoi An, you’ll realize it’s your best choice of travel destination in Vietnam. 

We hope you enjoy this list. If you’re interested in any of the tours above, please let us know. Our local guides are more than happy to show you ins and outs of the city!