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The Ultimate 3-Day Itinerary for Hoi An — From a Local Who Loves This Town

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Imagine a place with lantern-lit alleyways, golden rice paddies stretching to the horizon, and beaches where the waves seem to whisper stories to the shore. That’s Hoi An — and trust me, three days here is the perfect amount of time to soak it all in.

Whether you’re drawn to ancient history, vibrant culture, or just sipping egg coffee by a lazy river, this friendly little guide (crafted by someone who knows Hoi An like the back of their hand) will help you get the most out of your short stay. Let’s wander, shall we?

Quick Glance: Your 3-Day Plan for Hoi An

Here’s what your dreamy three days in Hoi An could look like:

  • 🏨 Stay: Best spots are in or around the Old Town
  • 📍 Day 1: Discover the magic of Old Town
  • 🌾 Day 2: Ride out to the rice fields & chill at the beach
  • 🏛️ Day 3: Take a cultural deep dive to My Son Sanctuary
  • 💡 Want flexibility? I’ve got plenty of mix-and-match tour ideas too!

Where to Stay in Hoi An: Let’s Get You Settled

You’ll want to stay close to the action — and that means Old Town or nearby. Why? Because the charm of Hoi An is best served on foot or bicycle, with surprises around every corner.

Top Picks in/near Old Town

For Beach Lovers

Staying at An Bang Beach? These are favorites:

Just a heads-up: the beach isn’t within walking distance of Old Town. You’ll want a bike, scooter, or the Grab app to get around.

Day 1: Let’s Get Lost In the Charm of Old Town

Hoi An’s crown jewel is the UNESCO-listed Old Town — a lovely tangle of tile-roofed buildings, colorful lanterns, and cobblestone streets. But don’t rush it. Let’s take it slow and savor.

Wander the Streets (and Snap a Few Pics)

From 3PM onwards, Old Town becomes pedestrian-only — a perfect time to stroll down:

  • 🌸 Tran Phu Street
  • 🎨 Nguyen Thai Hoc
  • 🏞️ Bach Dang Street (hello riverside views!)

You’ll bump into tailors, art shops, and lanterns galore.

Sip an Egg Coffee (Yep, It’s a Thing)

Start at Little Hanoi Egg Coffee — it’s not just cute, it’s delicious. Their hot egg coffee and iced cacao are a must.

Explore Local Landmarks

Don’t forget to grab coffee at 11 Ca Phe — great river views and ice-cold drinks.

Chow Down: My Top Foodie Picks

Mix It Up with a Class

Add a dash of culture and creativity:

Day 2: Let’s Roll Through Rice Fields & Chill at the Beach

Now that you’ve met the soul of the city, it’s time to stretch out into its quieter, more natural corners.

Glide Through Hoi An’s Rice Fields

Whether you rent a bike or join a tour, don’t miss:

Top rice field cafes to chill at:

Pro Tip: Hit the cafes for sunset—thank me later.

Chill By the Sea

Hoi An’s beaches might not match Thailand, but they sure are peaceful.

📍 Where to eat at the beach?

Optional but awesome activities:

Wanna do something sweet at night? Head back to the river and release a lantern.

Day 3: Day Trip to My Son Sanctuary (Or… Da Nang?)

For your final day, it’s time for a little adventure.

🛕 My Son Sanctuary

A one-hour drive from Hoi An, this ancient Hindu temple site is Vietnam’s version of Angkor Wat. You’ll need about two hours to explore it properly.

🚌 Best Options:

  • 🎟️ Early Morning Small Group Tour: Highly recommended
  • 🚕 Grab Taxi: Approx. 500k–700k VND one way
  • 🚗 Round-trip in Grab: Cheaper if booked as a package
  • 🛵 Confident on a scooter? This could be your most freeing ride yet.

Back by noon, pop into your favorite cafe again or try one of those classes you didn’t fit in on Day 1.

🏙️ Want to Shake Things Up? Explore Da Nang

Swap My Son for some Da Nang gems:

  • 🏔️ Marble Mountains
  • 🙏 Lady Buddha (plus monkeys!)

I didn’t include these in the main guide to stay focused on Hoi An, but they’re worth considering.

🌟 Cap Off with the Hoi An Memories Show

Before you pack up, don’t miss one of Vietnam’s most spectacular performances. The Hoi An Memories Show brings the city’s past to life in a stunning outdoor theater.

🎟 Details on tickets, showtimes, and seating? Right here in my guide.

Final Thoughts: Three Days Well Spent

By now, you’ve probably fallen head over heels for Hoi An — just like I did. Whether it’s walking beside glowing lanterns, biking through breezy fields, slurping up noodles, or tracing the past in ancient ruins, this little town leaves a big impression.

Have questions? Curious about your options? I hang out in this friendly Facebook group — come say hi!

Safe travels and enjoy every lantern-lit step of your Hoi An journey ✨

— A local who never tires of this magical town 💛