Best Spots to Take Photos in Hoi An
Hoi An, Vietnam’s enchanting Yellow City, is a photographer’s paradise. With its UNESCO-listed Ancient Town, vibrant lanterns, and serene riverside charm, every corner begs to be captured. Whether you’re chasing Instagram-worthy shots or timeless travel memories, these top photo spots will leave your camera roll glowing. Pack your lens, grab a non la hat, and let’s dive into Hoi An’s most photogenic locations—complete with addresses to guide your adventure!
1. Japanese Covered Bridge: Hoi An’s Iconic Gem
Steeped in history, the Japanese Covered Bridge is Hoi An’s must-snap landmark. This 400-year-old arched beauty, adorned with intricate details, connects the Japanese and Chinese quarters. Shoot early at sunrise (5:30 AM) to catch soft light and avoid selfie-stick crowds. Frame the bridge from Tran Phu Street for a classic shot or capture its reflection in the Thu Bon River for extra magic.
Address: Japanese Covered Bridge, Tran Phu Street, Hoi An Ancient Town, Quang Nam, Vietnamese
Google Maps: https://maps.app.goo.gl/EigcLr9a1TJeaDoD8
Pro Tip: Visit at night when the bridge glows under lanterns for a dreamy vibe.
2. Hoi An Ancient Town’s Yellow Walls: A Colorful Canvas
Hoi An’s signature yellow walls scream photo-op perfection. These vibrant facades, especially along Nguyen Thai Hoc and Tran Phu Streets, create stunning backdrops for portraits. Pair them with a white ao dai or a non la hat for that authentic Vietnamese charm. Early mornings offer clean shots with fewer tourists and golden light.
Address: Nguyen Thai Hoc Street, Hoi An Ancient Town, Quang Nam, Vietnam
Google Maps: https://maps.app.goo.gl/dpCCmGCnRrajwmBR6
Pro Tip: Seek out the “cleanest” yellow wall along Bach Dang Street near the Thu Bon River for a minimalist look.
3. Thu Bon River: Reflections and Lanterns
The Thu Bon River is Hoi An’s heart, offering endless photo possibilities. Capture wooden boats bobbing along the water or the iconic lantern-lit riverbank at dusk. For a unique angle, hop on a boat ride or shoot from An Hoi Bridge (Cau An Hoi) for a wide view of the Ancient Town’s skyline. Don’t miss the monthly Full Moon Lantern Festival, when glowing lanterns float downstream.
Address: Thu Bon River, along Bach Dang Street, Hoi An Ancient Town, Quang Nam, Vietnam
Google Maps: https://maps.app.goo.gl/Z7ajmZQAMJzSppYC7
Pro Tip: Sunset shots (5–6 PM) reflect pink-gold skies on the water for jaw-dropping results.
4. Hoi An Central Market: Vibrant Chaos
Dive into the colorful chaos of Hoi An Central Market for candid street photography. From conical-hatted vendors selling tropical fruits to sizzling street grills, this bustling hub captures Vietnam’s lively spirit. Arrive between 5–7 AM to snap locals in action before tour groups flood in.
Address: Hoi An Central Market, 01 Tran Quy Cap, Hoi An Ancient Town, Quang Nam, Vietnam
Google Maps: https://maps.app.goo.gl/frAP8KJhpxVbqvt66
Pro Tip: Climb to a nearby rooftop café for a bird’s-eye view of the market’s vibrant patchwork.
5. An Bang Beach: Coastal Serenity
Craving a serene escape? An Bang Beach’s pillow-soft sands and turquoise waves are perfect for dreamy coastal shots. Capture locals exercising at sunrise or frame the horizon with swaying palms. This spot is ideal for lifestyle or landscape photography.
Address: An Bang Beach, Cam An Ward, Hoi An, Quang Nam, Vietnam
Google Maps: https://maps.app.goo.gl/BxCUTr7kYkPcLJ6B6
Pro Tip: Arrive early (6 AM) to catch golden-hour light and avoid the midday heat.
Bonus Spots:
- Shore Club An Bang Beach – This stylish beach lounge offers chic coastal décor, colorful cocktails, and panoramic sea views that are perfect for lifestyle shots or golden hour vibes.
Address: Shore Club, An Bang Beach, Cam An, Hoi An, Quang Nam, Vietnam
Google maps: https://maps.app.goo.gl/1acxFLzwLBinNXGb9
- The DeckHouse An Bang Beach – Known for its white-and-blue Mediterranean aesthetic, this beachfront café provides a stunning backdrop for laid-back, summery photos.
Address: The DeckHouse, An Bang Beach, Cam An, Hoi An, Quang Nam, Vietnam
Google maps: https://maps.app.goo.gl/re2pbJVmMJuukBU79
6. Faifo Coffee Rooftop: Panoramic Perfection
For a postcard-worthy view, head to Faifo Coffee’s rooftop terrace. Overlooking Hoi An’s terracotta rooftops, this spot is a photographer’s dream. Sip a coconut coffee while snapping the Ancient Town’s sprawling charm. The third-floor vantage point is ideal for cityscapes or candid street shots.
Address: Faifo Coffee, 130 Tran Phu Street, Hoi An Ancient Town, Quang Nam, Vietnam
Google Maps: https://maps.app.goo.gl/vmQrEYSpS4GQLWNL7
Pro Tip: Order a drink to access the rooftop, open from 8 AM to 9:30 PM.
7. Sundays in Hoi An: The Pink Wall Pop
Tucked inside a chic boutique, the “Hoi An Vibes Only” pink wall at Sundays in Hoi An is an Instagram favorite. This playful backdrop, paired with the store’s curated decor, screams trendy photo-op. Pop in to shop artisanal goods while you’re at it.
Address: Sundays in Hoi An, 87 Tran Phu Street, Hoi An Ancient Town, Quang Nam, Vietnam
Google maps: https://maps.app.goo.gl/twRH4yQhMBXDJTKh9
Pro Tip: Visit mid-morning to avoid lines of influencers waiting for their shot.
8. Tra Que Vegetable Village: Rustic Charm
Escape the town’s bustle at Tra Que Vegetable Village, a lush oasis of herbs and greenery. Photograph farmers tending crops or buffalo grazing in rice paddies for authentic rural vibes. The soft morning light enhances the village’s tranquil beauty.
Address: Tra Que Vegetable Village, Cam Ha Ward, Hoi An, Quang Nam, Vietnam
Google Maps: https://maps.app.goo.gl/Uj7HWD4tYwKS7wNP7
Pro Tip: Cycle here for scenic photo stops along Hai Ba Trung Street.
9. Cam Kim Island: Off-the-Beaten-Path Beauty
Cross the bridge to Cam Kim Island for a quieter, rural Hoi An experience. Capture chili fields, craft villages, or artisans making incense. The island’s rice paddies and river views are perfect for landscape lovers.
Address: Cam Kim Island, accessed via Cam Kim Bridge, Hoi An, Quang Nam, Vietnam
Google Maps: https://maps.app.goo.gl/EmPTbNxhjGQGkuxN8
Pro Tip: Rent a bicycle to explore Kim Bong village’s vibrant red chili fields.
10. Lantern Street at Night: A Glowing Spectacle
When the sun sets, Hoi An transforms into a lantern-lit wonderland. Along the Hoai River, from the Japanese Bridge to Hoi An Market, colorful lanterns create a magical glow. Use long-exposure techniques to capture the flickering lights and cobblestone reflections.
Address: Hoai River, from Japanese Bridge to Hoi An Market, Hoi An Ancient Town, Quang Nam, Vietnam
Google maps: https://maps.app.goo.gl/9HPCMkZWZdgqUHkd6
Pro Tip: Shoot between 5–10 PM for the liveliest lantern scenes, especially during the Lunar Festival.
Why Hoi An Steals the Frame?
Hoi An’s blend of history, culture, and natural beauty makes it a photographer’s dream. From golden walls to glowing lanterns, every shot tells a story. Rise early, wander the alleys, and let the Yellow City’s charm fill your lens. Ready to capture Hoi An’s magic? Your next viral photo awaits!
Plan Your Visit: Fly into Da Nang International Airport (30 km away) and take a 30-minute taxi or Grab to Hoi An. The best seasons for photography are February to May, with mild weather and vibrant light.
