How to Enjoy Hoi An Like a Local

As one of Vietnam's most popular beach holiday destinations, Hoi An is a dynamic travel hub for the masses. Although the coastal town's main attractions and top activities are known to most tourists, there's a hidden side to Hoi An that's waiting to be discovered by discerning travellers. From wining and dining like a local to exploring little-known highlights and hidden gems, here's how to spend your Hoi An getaway venturing off the beaten path.

Wine and Dine in Local Cafes

While it's important to dig into Bahn Mi buns and other local treats sold on the streets of Hoi An, immersing yourself in the life of locals must also include a fair bit of cafe hopping. As most of the ancient shophouses in town have been converted into shops and cosy coffee houses, caffeine addicts touring Hoi An can enjoy a great cuppa in an array of charming settings. Espresso Station is a wonderful place to kick start your cafe-hopping excursion in Hoi An as the coconut and egg coffees alone make it worth visiting. Phin's Café, Faifo and Hoi An Roastery are other worthy cafes to spend a morning or afternoon in while Mot in Old Town is a staple for those who prefer fruity and herbal beverages.

Spend an Afternoon at Quan Cong Temple

Dating back to the 17th century, Quan Cong Temple is a landmark where most locals gather during local religious events and festivals. Also called the Ong Pagoda, the venue is hard to miss on a stroll around Hoi An due to its multicoloured facade. Built in 1653 by Hoi An's Chinese immigrant population, it is both a historic site and an integral part of the beach town's community life.

Snap Insta-Worthy Shots at the Japanese Covered Bridge

As an often ignored highlight occupying the area near the centre of Old Town, the Japanese Covered Bridge connects Nguyen Thi Minh Khai Street with Tran Phu Street. Constructed as early as the 16th century, there's also a small temple tucked away inside the bridge where locals pay homage to the God of Weather. While it may be an unusual stopover for tourists, the Japanese Bridge which has been featured on the 20,000 Vietnamese Dong note is a photogenic location that's worth documenting on your Instagram reels.

Sign Up for a Biking Tour

Although Hoi An Old Town can be explored on foot, those who wish to take in the other sights around the city can sign up for a cultural or recreational bike tour of its main sightseeing routes. Tourists based at Anantara Hoi An Resort and similar hotels can venture into Hoi An's rice paddy fields and rural landscapes on a scenic biking tour.

Get Some Tailoring Done

Ranked among the best places in Vietnam to have both clothing and shoes made to order, travellers can have anything from a suit, or dress to a fancy ball gown crafted in 24 hours at some tailor shops. Affordable and crafted with expertise, visitors will find a wide variety of clothing styles to choose from at these local tailor shops. Taking two days at most, it's important to go in for a fitting once the garment is ready for pick-up so that the necessary alterations can be made.

Learn How to Make Local Delicacies

Culinary fanatics who wish to recreate the regional treats they savoured at Hoi An restaurants can learn the basics in a cooking class conducted by a local chef. Those with dietary preferences including vegans and vegetarians will find that venues such as the Chickpea Eatery organise cooking demonstrations aimed at those with different tastes.

Ditch the Lantern Lit River for a Coconut Boat Ride

Although taking part in the annual Lantern Festival and embarking on river cruises is a popular tourist activity, travellers may have a grander time on board a coconut boat. Accessible at Cam Thanh, just 5km away from Hoi An Old Town, this once-in-a-lifetime boat ride travels across coconut plantations and the city's main waterways.