How to Spend 48 Hours in Hoi An: A Perfect 2-Day Itinerary

Hoi An is more than just a town it’s a living story. With only 48 hours, you can walk under the gorgeous lantern-lit streets, enjoy a lantern lighting and boat ride on the Thu Bon River, taste world-famous dishes, paddle through coconut groves, and relax in beachside luxury.

To help you make the most of your time in Hoi An, our concierge team at Shore Club has put together our top picks based on our experiences and guest feedback for the best way to spend two days in Hoi An. This detailed itinerary will guide you through some of the most magical experiences the town has to offer.

This detailed itinerary will help you make the most of two magical days in Central Vietnam.

Day 1: Exploring Shore Club & Hoi An Ancient Town

An Bang Beach Sunrise & Yoga Classes

Begin your Hoi An journey the mindful way with Namaste & Nourish, Shore Club’s signature yoga-and-breakfast experience.

At 6:00 AM, join our Sunrise Yoga class on the elevated beachfront deck, where the Vietnam Sea provides your backdrop and the sound of waves sets the rhythm of your practice. Led by experienced instructors, each 60-minute session is tailored to the group sometimes gentle, sometimes energizing but always focused on movement, breath, and mindfulness. All levels are welcome, and mats, towels, and water are included. Showers and changing facilities are available afterward so you can refresh before breakfast.

When class ends, stay by the sea for a nourishing breakfast from Shore Club’s healthy menu.

Popular choices include:

Avocado Toast with cherry tomato, olives, pesto, and feta
Fruit & Yogurt Smoothie Bowl with granola
Shore Club Eggs Benedict with bacon or smoked salmon (145,000 VND)
Ham & Cheese Croissant with avocado on homemade pastry (135,000 VND)
Or try a local favorite, the Hoi An Special Cao Lầu (85,000 VND)

Enjoy your meal with premium Vietnamese coffee, fresh juice, and the relaxed elegance of Shore Club’s terrace overlooking An Bang Beach.

Note: Namaste & Nourish is priced at 600,000 VND per person, including yoga, breakfast, and facilities. Advance booking (12–24 hours) is required. Private classes are also available on request.

With its unique blend of wellness, nourishment, and natural beauty, Shore Club’s Namaste & Nourish is the perfect way to start your two days in Hoi An—balanced, energized, and inspired by the sea.

Explore Hoi An Ancient Town

Japanese Covered Bridge:

The 400-year-old wooden bridge with its gently arched roof and intricate carvings remains the symbol of Hoi An. Located in the very heart of the Ancient Town.

Built in the early 17th century by the Japanese community, this wooden bridge is one of Hoi An’s most iconic landmarks. Its gently arched roof, intricate carvings of monkeys and dogs, and weathered timbers reflect centuries of history. Legend has it the bridge was constructed to subdue a mythical sea monster whose movements caused earthquakes. Today, it remains a symbol of harmony and resilience, offering a quiet spot to pause amid the town’s bustle.

Tan Ky Ancient House:

A 200-year-old merchant house blending Vietnamese courtyards, Chinese carved beams, and Japanese balconies.

Tân Ký is a rare example of cultural fusion in architecture. The house blends Vietnamese open courtyards, Chinese wooden beams carved with poems, and Japanese-influenced balconies. Walking through its narrow rooms, you’ll see original furniture, trading ledgers, and flood markers etched on the walls reminders of Hoi An’s role as a busy merchant port. The family still living here has preserved the home for seven generations, making it a living museum.

Address: 101 Nguyen Thai Hoc, Minh An Ward, Hoi An (some guides list it as 47 Nguyen Thai Hoc or 47 Tran Phu, all point to the same site).

Chinese Assembly Halls:

These ornate communal halls were built by Chinese merchant groups, each dedicated to their home province or a patron deity. The most famous is the Fujian Assembly Hall (Phúc Kiến Hội Quán), with its grand gate, colorful mosaics, and incense coils spiraling under the ceiling. Step inside and you’ll find altars to sea goddess Thiên Hậu, guardian of sailors and merchants. The halls are still active places of worship, filled with the fragrance of incense, red lanterns, and statues of dragons and phoenixes.

Address: 46 Tran Phu Street, Minh An Ward, Hoi An

Lunch – A Local Culinary Experience

Coming to Hoi An without tasting its signature dishes is like missing half the story. Each bite carries a piece of the town’s heritage, influenced by centuries of trade and culture. Here are some of the must-try dishes for first-time visitors and where to find them:

Cao Lầu:

If you’ve never tried it, think of it as Hoi An’s answer to ramen or udon but it exists only here. The noodles are thick and chewy, almost like Japanese udon, but they’re soaked in water from the ancient Bá Lễ well, which gives them their unique texture. Topped with slices of soy-marinated pork, fresh herbs, crunchy croutons, and just a splash of broth, it’s not a soupy dish but a balanced mix of textures and flavors.

These are some of the best Cao Lau places that we suggest:

Cao Lầu Bá Lễ
Address: 45/3 Trần Hưng Đạo, Hội An
Price: From 40,000 VND
Cao Lầu Cô Liên
Address: 120 Trần Cao Vân, Hội An
Price: 40,000 VND / bowl
Cao Lầu Bà Bé
Address: Food Court, Hội An Market, Lot E 071, Hội An
Price: 20,000 – 45,000 VND
Cao Lầu Thanh
Address: 26 Thái Phiên, Hội An
Price: 35,000 – 50,000 VND
Cao Lầu & Cơm Gà Phúc
Address: 11 Phan Chu Trinh, Hội An
Price: 20,000 – 45,000 VND
Cao Lầu Không Gian Xanh
Address: 687 Hai Bà Trưng, Hội An
Price: 30,000 – 50,000 VND

Bánh mì:

Hoi An is known for having really good Banh Mi and for good reason. A crunchy French-style baguette is split open and stuffed with grilled meats, pate, pickled carrots and daikon, cucumber, herbs, and chili sauce. It’s salty, sour, sweet, and spicy all at once. If you’ve never eaten one, this is Vietnamese street food perfection.

These are some of the best Cao Lau places that we suggest:

Bánh Mì Madam Khánh (The Banh Mi Queen)
Address: 115 Trần Cao Vân, Minh An Ward, Hội An
Price: 25,000–30,000 VND
Bánh Mì Phượng
Address: 2B Phan Châu Trinh, Hội An
Price: 20,000–40,000 VND
Bánh Mì Cô Lành
Address: 430 Cửa Đại, Hội An
Price: 10,000–25,000 VND
Bánh Mì Bích
Address: 51 Phan Châu Trinh, Minh Khai Ward, Hội An
Price: 15,000–20,000 VND
Bánh Mì Phố Cổ
Address: 2 Lê Lợi, Hội An
Price: 15,000–20,000 VND
Bánh Mì Thân
Address: 227 Lý Thường Kiệt, Hội An
Price: 10,000–20,000 VND
Bánh Mì Bà Bứa
Address: 117 Nguyễn Trường Tộ, Hội An
Price: 10,000–20,000 VND
Bánh Mì Minh Thu (Roast Pork)
Address: 248 Lý Thường Kiệt, Hội An
Price: 15,000–25,000 VND
Bánh Mì Cô Ngọc (Nguyễn Trường Tộ)
Address: Nguyễn Trường Tộ Street, Hội An
Price: 7,000–15,000 VND
Bánh Mì Tâm Hoa (Thái Phiên)
Address: Intersection of Thái Phiên & Trần Cao Vân, Hội An
Price: 10,000–15,000 VND

Bánh xèo

These are crispy rice flour pancakes, sizzling hot from the pan, folded around shrimp, pork, and bean sprouts. The fun part is how you eat them: break off a piece, wrap it in rice paper with lettuce and herbs, then dip it into a peanut-hoisin sauce. Messy, interactive, and delicious. If you’ve never had bánh xèo before, think of it as a DIY taco but with Vietnamese flavors.

These are some of the best Banh Xeo places that we suggest:

Hội An Spring Roll
Address: 87 Nguyễn Thái Học, Hội An
Bánh Xèo Ba Tiến
Address: 409 Hai Bà Trưng, Hội An
Bánh Xèo Sông Hoài
Address: 59/32 18 Tháng 8 Street, Hội An
Bánh Xèo Cô Anh
Address: Thoại Ngọc Hầu Street, Hội An
Bánh Xèo Giếng Bá Lễ
Address: 45/51 Trần Hưng Đạo, Hội An

Mì Quảng

A central Vietnam classic. Turmeric-yellow noodles are served with pork, shrimp, quail egg, and roasted peanuts, topped with fresh herbs and just a ladle of broth (it’s not a full soup). If you’ve never had it, expect a vibrant mix of flavors—salty, nutty, herbal—and a dish that feels lighter than phở but just as satisfying.

Mì Quảng Ông Hai
Address: 6A Trương Minh Lượng, Hội An
Mì Quảng Dì Hát
Address: 81 Phan Chu Trinh, Hội An
Mì Quảng Bà Minh
Address: 137 Phan Chu Trinh, Hội An
Mì Quảng Cô Sinh
Address: 202 Lý Thường Kiệt, Hội An
Mì Quảng Không Gian Xanh
Address: 687 Hai Bà Trưng, Hội An

White Rose Dumplings (Bánh Bao Bánh Vạc)

These delicate steamed dumplings are shaped like roses, filled with minced shrimp or pork, and topped with crispy fried shallots. They’re soft, slightly chewy, and usually dipped in a light fish sauce. Unique to Hoi An, you won’t find this dish elsewhere in Vietnam.

White Rose Restaurant
Address: 533 Hai Bà Trưng, Hội An
Trống Cơm Restaurant
Address: 92 Bạch Đằng, Hội An
Trung Bắc Restaurant
Address: 87 Trần Phú, Hội An

Chicken Rice (Cơm Gà Hội An)

Vietnamese chicken rice, Hoi An style: rice cooked in chicken broth with turmeric, topped with shredded chicken, herbs, onions, and chili jam. If you’ve never had it, think of it as comfort food with a kick—fluffy rice, savory chicken, and just enough spice to wake you up.

Cơm Gà Bà Buội
Address: 22 Phan Chu Trinh, Hội An
Cơm Gà Bà Nga
Address: 8 Phan Chu Trinh, Hội An
Cơm Gà Bà Hồ
Address: 16 Phan Chu Trinh, Hội An
Cơm Gà Xí
Address: 47/2 Trần Hưng Đạo, Hội An
Cơm Gà Bà Thuận
Address: 65 Hai Bà Trưng, Hội An

Afternoon – Tailor-Made Fashion

No visit to Hoi An is complete without discovering its world-famous tailoring. The Ancient Town is filled with family-run ateliers and boutique shops where skilled artisans can create a custom suit, flowing áo dài, summer dress, or even leather shoes in as little as 24–48 hours. Watching the process is half the fun: browsing fabrics, being measured by hand, and returning for fittings as your design takes shape.

Some well-known names include Yaly Couture (luxury tailoring with an extensive fabric library) and Bebe Tailor (popular for friendly service and quick turnaround). These are often mentioned online and in guidebooks, which makes them easy to find.

But if you prefer something more intimate, you’ll also find smaller shops throughout the Ancient Town, where prices may be lower and the experience more personal. Exploring these tailors is part of what makes Hoi An unique—you can step into almost any shop and be welcomed with a smile, a tape measure, and endless fabric choices.

Evening Lanterns by the River

As dusk settles, Hoi An reveals its most magical side. The streets glow under a canopy of colorful lanterns, while the Thu Bồn River shimmers with thousands of lights drifting gently downstream.

Take a leisurely stroll along the waterfront and soak in the festive atmosphere, then join a boat ride on the river for the full experience. For around 50,000–100,000 VND per person, you’ll be guided onto a small wooden boat where you can release your own lantern into the water – a romantic and symbolic gesture said to bring good luck.

Take a leisurely stroll along the waterfront, soak in the festive energy, and release your own lantern for a touch of luck.

To complete the evening, enjoy dinner at Mango Mango (45 Nguyen Phuc Chu, Minh An Ward, Hoi An), a riverside favorite known for its creative take on modern Vietnamese cuisine paired with sweeping views of the lantern-lit river—a setting as unforgettable as the meal itself.

Day 2 Local Life & Coastal Bliss

Morning – Basket Boat at Coconut Village

Begin your second day in Hoi An with a visit to Coconut Village in Cẩm Thanh, just 10–15 minutes from the Ancient Town by car or bike. Step into a traditional round basket boat and drift through nipa palm forests that feel like a hidden world.

Local fishermen turn the ride into a performance, spinning the boats in dizzying circles, singing folk songs, and showing how to catch crabs with simple bamboo traps. It’s lively, authentic, and a true glimpse into the daily life of Hoi An’s river communities.

Practical Info:

Location: Cẩm Thanh Coconut Village (about 5 km from Ancient Town)
Price:
- Shared boat: 30,000–50,000 VND per person (20–30 minutes)
- Private boat: 150,000–200,000 VND per boat (1–5 people)
Booking: You can book through most hotels, local tour agencies, or directly with boat operators at the village entrance. Some packages also include a cooking class or cycling tour.

Lunch – Local Seafood by the Sea

By midday, head to the seaside seafood shacks that line An Bang Beach. These humble, open-air spots may look simple, but the flavors are unforgettable: prawns grilled with lemongrass, clams steamed with chili and fragrant herbs, or whole fish wrapped in banana leaves and roasted until tender. Meals are served family-style, often with cold beer, plastic chairs in the sand, and the sound of waves just meters away a rustic, authentic slice of Vietnamese coastal life.

Here are some excellent local seafood spots near An Bang Beach, perfect for a rustic, flavorful lunch experience. These are favorites among both travelers and locals:

An Bang Beach Village Restaurant

A hidden gem tucked away in an alley off the beach — more about flavor than a sea view.
Known for standout dishes like grilled scallops, seafood fried rice, and red snapper grilled with chili and salt. Guests often praise the welcoming service and authentic atmosphere.

Lucky Beach Seafood Restaurant

Family-run and beloved by both locals and visitors. Known for lovingly prepared seafood dishes and a warm, welcoming vibe from the hosting family.

Other Notable Picks (as featured in broader reviews):

Nam Gia Seafood Restaurant – beachfront setting, fresh seafood like chili-grilled or butter-garlic fried dishes.
Tuyết Seafood Restaurant – intimate, tree-shaded spot offering favorites like grilled oysters with cheese and butter-grilled lobster.
Sao Biển Restaurant – charming decor with bougainvillea, serving grilled sea urchin, soy-steamed grouper, and fried squid, often with live music.

Afternoon – Learn & Create

Hoi An isn’t just about sightseeing—it’s a town of makers. From food to lanterns to wood art, the afternoon is your chance to dive into its creative traditions and bring home something more personal than a photo.

Cooking Classes

Food is at the heart of Hoi An’s culture, and a cooking class is one of the best ways to experience it.

Red Bridge Cooking School: Start with a guided market tour, where you’ll learn how locals pick fresh herbs, vegetables, and spices. Then take a short boat ride to the riverside cooking school, surrounded by lush gardens. Here, you’ll prepare Vietnamese classics such as fresh spring rolls, banh xeo (crispy pancakes), and even pho. The setting is peaceful, making it a full cultural and culinary journey.
- Duration: ~4 hours (morning or afternoon sessions)
- Price: 700,000–900,000 VND per person (includes market tour, boat ride, class, and meal)
Tra Que Vegetable Village: For a more rural experience, visit this organic farming community just outside Hoi An. Join local farmers in the fields, learn how they use traditional methods to grow herbs, and then pick your own ingredients for cooking. It’s a down-to-earth, interactive experience that connects you to Hoi An’s farming roots.
- Duration: ~3–4 hours
- Price: 500,000–800,000 VND per person (includes farm tour, class, and meal)

Both options are more than just cooking—they’re about slowing down, working with your hands, and learning recipes you can take home to share with friends and family.

Lantern Making at De Lantana

Lanterns are the symbol of Hoi An, and making one yourself is an unforgettable memory. De Lantana is the only workshop we recommend: it’s locally run, has been featured on VTV, and is known for its quality and authenticity.

Friendly artisans will guide you step by step:

Shape the bamboo frame.
Stretch colorful silk fabric over it.
Add your own decorative touches.

Duration: 1–2 hours
Price: 200,000–300,000 VND per lantern (materials included)
De Lantana FB page: https://www.facebook.com/delantana

By the end, you’ll walk away with a handmade lantern glowing with both beauty and personal meaning. It’s also a wonderful cultural souvenir—lightweight, meaningful, and unique.

Art at Cui Lu Driftwood Village

For something truly unique, head to Cui Lu Driftwood Village, where artisans transform driftwood collected from the sea into sculptural pieces. Guided by skilled craftspeople, you’ll carve your own piece of driftwood art to take home.

Each creation is one-of-a-kind, shaped by both nature and your hands. It’s a soulful, eco-friendly experience that supports local artistry.

Duration: 2–3 hours
Price: 400,000–600,000 VND per person (materials and guidance included)
Driftwood Village Website:https://langcuilu.com/
Driftwood Village Fanpage:https://www.facebook.com/driftwoodvillage

For something more artistic, try a lantern-making workshop, one of the town’s most iconic crafts. At The Lantern Lady (8 Tran Cao Van, Hoi An), friendly artisans guide you in shaping a bamboo frame, stretching colorful silk, and decorating your lantern with your own designs. By the end, you’ll walk away with a handmade lantern that glows with both beauty and personal meaning.

Evening – Live Music at The DeckHouse

End your 48 hours in Hoi An with an evening of live music by the sea at The DeckHouse, An Bang Beach. Known for its relaxed vibe, beachfront setting, and weekly performances, DeckHouse is the perfect place to dine on fresh seafood, sip cocktails, and enjoy great music as the waves roll in.

Check the DeckHouse music schedule (often Wednesdays and Saturdays) for the latest performances, and arrive early to grab the best beachfront seats. There’s no better way to say goodbye to Hoi An than with good food, live music, and the sound of the ocean under the stars.

Practical Travel Tips

Best time to visit

The most pleasant months are February to April, when the weather is cool, dry, and perfect for walking or cycling around town. From May to August, the beaches are at their best with sunny skies, though the midday heat can be intense, a dip in the sea or swim in Shore Club’s beachfront pool, will help keep you cool.

September to November brings occasional rains and the chance of flooding in the Ancient Town – but don’t fret, this is a magical time when the walking streets are filled with local boat vendors to take you around! Hoi An is no stranger to flooding in the Old Town – and they are ready to welcome you still as most venues have an upstairs area! In December and January, the temperatures are cooler and the city is less crowded—ideal if you prefer a quieter atmosphere.

Currency & payments

Hoi An uses the Vietnamese Dong (VND). While larger restaurants, hotels, and boutiques may accept credit cards, most small shops, markets, and street vendors operate on a cash-only basis. ATMs are available throughout the Ancient Town, but it’s a good idea to carry smaller bills (10,000–50,000 VND) for food stalls, taxis, and entrance fees.

Getting around

The Ancient Town itself is largely pedestrianized, making it perfect to explore on foot or by bicycle. Bicycles can be rented from most hotels and homestays for as little as 30,000–50,000 VND per day. For trips further afield—like An Bang Beach or Tra Que Vegetable Village—consider taking a taxi, motorbike taxi, or renting a scooter. If you’re not comfortable driving, many hotels can arrange private cars or guided tours at reasonable prices.

If you need a private driver or car service, just ask at our reception desk and we’ll be happy to introduce you to one of our trusted partners like “Same Same But Different” or “Marvelous Travel and Tours”

Night Market

Don’t miss the Hoi An Night Market on Nguyễn Hoàng Street, open daily from around 5:00 PM. Here you’ll find rows of colorful lanterns, handcrafted souvenirs, jewelry, and plenty of street food options—from grilled skewers and fresh fruit juices to sweet coconut pancakes. The night market is also one of the best places to capture the town’s magical lantern-lit atmosphere for photos.

Final tip

Even with just 48 hours, Hoi An leaves a strong impression. Walking through lantern-lit streets, trying local dishes, riding a bike through rice fields, or relaxing by the sea are some of the top things to do in Hoi An. Two days might not be enough to see it all, but it’s enough to fall in love with this beautiful town—and to make you want to come back, discover more, and create new memories each time.