Tucked between waving rice paddies, windy beaches, and frond-fringed canals, Hoi An is a natural backdrop for a beautiful retreat. Known as the “peaceful meeting place,” Hoi An draws visitors with a promise of rest, rejuvenation, and reconnection in its evocative setting. If you’re planning a girls’ weekend getaway to one of Vietnam’s most soothing holiday spots, here’s your ultimate travel guide.
Afternoon: Check in and Bliss Out
You’ve finally arrived in Hoi An! Drop your bags and head straight to the beach for some well-deserved relaxation. An Bang Beach, once a quiet fishing hamlet, is now dotted with beachfront resorts and restaurants. Here, you can claim a daybed with a view of the water, indulge in fresh spring rolls and crispy calamari, and take refreshing dips in the waves.
TIP: Soul Kitchen, Shore Club, Sound of Silence, and Salt Pub are some of the popular spots along An Bang Beach that offer a serene atmosphere and great service.
Evening: A Walk under the Lanterns
As the sun sets, rinse off the saltwater and get ready for a magical evening in the Ancient Town. Walk under the glowing lanterns and make your way to Mai Fish Restaurant. Sip craft beers, dine on delicate white rose dumplings and perfectly grilled fish, all while overlooking the Thu Bon River in a flower-strewn courtyard.
After dinner, take a leisurely stroll around the Ancient Town. Explore top tailors like Bebe or Mr Xe, browse the sparkling jewelry at Lotus Jewellery, and don’t forget to capture a selfie at the Japanese Bridge. End the night with a restful sleep at your resort.
TIP: For a timeless and relaxing experience, consider staying at Victoria Resort, known for its elegant colonial-inspired design and inviting infinity pool.
Morning: Cultural Discoveries
Embrace the morning hours to delve deeper into Hoi An’s culture. Book a cooking class, join a cycling tour, or try a handicraft workshop. Hoi An offers a self-led cycling tour or guided rides in the countryside with companies like Heaven and Earth or Grasshopper Adventures. If cooking is more your style, consider Red Bridge Cooking School, Tra Que Water Wheel, or My Grandma’s Home Cooking. These cooking classes often include visits to the Central Market, Tra Que Vegetable Village, or boat rides on the canals. Alternatively, you can try a lantern-making class with Hoi An Handicraft Tours or pottery lessons at Thanh Ha pottery village.
TIP: Enjoy a delicious lunch at Morning Glory, known for its simple and flavorful dishes.
Afternoon: Take it Slow
After a morning packed with cultural experiences, it’s time to unwind and pamper yourself. Treat your body to a rejuvenating spa experience at Citrus Spa, known for its professional treatments and natural products. The Amazing Citrus package offers an organic body scrub, Vietnamese aroma massage, and customizable facial. If you’re in the mood for a personalized treatment, Luminary Life is a great choice. Experienced practitioners offer healing modalities like reiki sessions, sound baths, and osteopathy. Afterward, visit Reaching Out Teahouse for a relaxing cup of tea and traditional snacks.
Evening: Sunset on the River
End the day by soaking up Hoi An’s stunning sunlight on the Thu Bon River. Take a sunset cruise along the river, enjoying the cool breezes and lantern-lit banks. Dine at Seashell Restaurant for modern Vietnamese cuisine or enjoy grilled delicacies at 37 Woodfired Grill. After dinner, head to Mango Mango for live band performances and sip on the Asian Invasion cocktail.
Morning: Morning in the Ancient Town
Before leaving Hoi An, don’t miss the chance to explore the Ancient Town in the early morning light. Ride a bicycle along the water’s edge, savor a banh mi or bowl of cao lau on the sidewalk, or visit the stunning temples before the crowds arrive. If you prefer a more relaxed morning, join a yoga session on An Bang Beach or enjoy a long and lazy breakfast by the water’s edge. Don’t forget to pick up any last-minute shopping items or tailoring orders before bidding farewell to Hoi An until next time.
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