Are you currently planning your Vietnam backpacking trip or looking for a bunch of affordable fun activities in the town of Hoi An? Have a read and see if any of these catch your eye to add to your travel itinerary.
1. Chill by The Pool
If you’re planning to have a calm restful day to recharge, a day by the pool is an ideal choice, where you can have a swim, top up your tan, read a book or any other little activity you want. If you’re staying in a hostel then it is also a prime spot for socialisation and making new friends. When in Hoi An, I stayed in Mad Monkey Hostel, where all the staff were helpful and did everything to ensure people had a great stay, even checking us in early when they could after a long night on a sleeper bus. Check out hostelworld to view some pics of the clean, private and comfy rooms with dorms having curtains, mirrors, private charging ports and lockers.
2. Bar Crawl
Many Hostels offer group activities such as bar crawls around Hoi an, with most charging a specific fee that includes transport to and from, entry into bars and a free drink. Make sure to stay safe and aware of your surroundings but this could be a good way to socialise if you’re a party goer!
3. Coconut Boats
One of the popular reasons to visit Hoi an is to experience the coconut boats of which their original use was for going fishing. A lovely scenic journey along the river where you can watch them boat spin, fish or even experience karaoke on the water!
4. Lantern Boats
Another top activity for many tourists consists of floating down the river in Hoi An Old Town, where you are able to light a lantern and gently release it into the water with many making wishes or manifestations as they do so. The river is flooded with boats, lanterns and vibrant colours.
5. Clothes Tailoring
This is not something I did during my stay in Hoi An as my suitcase was already full to the brim and I definitely did not have space for new clothes. Lots of tourists find Hoi An to be a top destination for clothes tailoring due to the beautiful and creative designs with lots only taking 24 hours to a couple days to get tailored professionally. Many people come with inspiration pictures, for example take a look on TikTok for ideas!!
6. Lantern Making
One of my favourite activities in Hoi An was participating in a lantern making class. There are many places around the city where you are able to do this so you are spoilt for choices! My traditional lantern once made was easily collapsible, allowing it to fit in my suitcase and become a keep-sake reminding me of my travels through Vietnam.
7. Cooking Class
Another activity I did not personally attend was a cooking class which are extremely popular throughout Vietnam. There are many places that offer this experience, enabling you to delve deeper into Vietnamese culture and learn to cook their most traditional dishes. I would definitely add this to my list of things to do if I were to visit Vietnam again.
8. Wander The Old Town and Local Markets
Take a leisurely stroll at your own pace to explore the town and browse the market stall and shops in the town of Hoi An. Hoi An is a beautiful town with colourful picturesque buildings, a flowing river and is rich in Vietnamese culture.
9. Day Pass at a Beach Club or Resort
Due to Hoi An being located on the coastline, there are many Beach Clubs or Resorts where you are able to buy day passes which include access to sun loungers with many refunding your ticket cost if you buy a certain amount of food or drink.
