Explore the Best of Hoi An in a Day

The best time to visit Hoi An with kids is between February and April, when the weather is mild and pleasant. This period is perfect for families to explore the city’s outdoor attractions without the intense heat of summer. If visiting between May and August, expect warmer temperatures and higher tourist activity. That said, the sunny days make Hoi An perfect for beach outings and countryside tours. From September to January, cooler weather and occasional rain provide a quieter experience, ideal for travellers who prefer fewer crowds.

For families planning to visit Hoi An with kids, the ancient town’s exciting cultural festivals offer a unique opportunity to immerse in local culture.

• Hoi An Lantern Festival - Held on the 14th day of every lunar month, the Hoi An Lantern Festival transforms the city into a magical wonderland of light. Streets are lined with colourful lanterns, and families can hop on a boat to release their own lanterns onto the Thu Bon River. This mesmerising event is a visual spectacle, and kids will be enchanted by the glowing lanterns and festive atmosphere.
• Mid Autumn Festival - One of Vietnam’s most beloved cultural celebrations, the Mid Autumn Festival takes place in September. It is a time for families to come together and offer mooncakes and fruits in honour of the full moon. Kids parade down the narrow streets with their paper lanterns as lion dancers move to the beat of drums and traditional music. The festival offers a joyous, family-centric atmosphere that is especially magical for children.
• Lady Thien Hau Festival - Celebrated in the spring on the 23rd day of the third lunar month, the Lady Thien Hau Festival honours the protective goddess of fishermen and merchants. The festival features lively processions, including offerings of banh chung (square glutinous rice cakes) and prayers for safe voyages. Children will enjoy the lively parade and the cultural insight into the local traditions of Hoi An’s fishing community.

Start the day with a family-friendly eco-tour to explore Hoi An’s lush countryside. Take a leisurely bike ride through rice paddies or enjoy a peaceful boat trip along winding rivers. Kids will love interacting with local farmers, learning how to plant vegetables or experiencing traditional Vietnamese fishing techniques firsthand.

For an immersive experience, visit Tra Que Vegetable Village, where families can try their hand at farming and harvesting herbs.

Another enriching stop is Cam Thanh Coconut Village, a picturesque piece of countryside east of Hoi An Ancient Town. A scenic boat ride through the coconut forests offers both an educational and fun adventure for all ages, providing a glimpse into local life.

For a family-friendly lunch in Hoi An, head to The Noodle House, where outdoor seating overlooks the river, and kids can enjoy classics like pho, bun dishes and Hoi An’s own cao lau (noodles with pork) and mi quang (turmeric noodle soup).

For travellers seeking a more relaxed setting with vegetarian options, Dingo Deli offers spacious outdoor seating and a variety of healthy dishes. Another popular Hoi An restaurant, Soul Beach, offers beachfront dining and serves both Western and Vietnamese cuisine, with kid-friendly choices like chips, mashed potatoes and spring rolls.

Be sure to try local specialties like Hoi An’s famous chicken rice or a mild, flavourful banh mi (Vietnamese sandwich), perfect for kids.

Spend the afternoon strolling through Hoi An’s bewitching Ancient Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site where narrow streets are lined with golden, centuries-old buildings. Visit the iconic Japanese Covered Bridge, an architectural marvel that will fascinate children with its dragon carvings and pagoda. Stop by the Tan Ky Old House, a beautifully preserved merchant’s home, where families can get a glimpse of traditional Vietnamese life.

For a hands-on experience, visit a local lantern-making workshop or pottery class, where kids can create their own colourful lanterns or pottery to take home as souvenirs.

Don’t miss the opportunity to capture family photos at some of Hoi An’s most picturesque spots. Pose by the iconic Yellow Wall along the Thu Bon River, snap lively shots at Hoi An’s Central Market on Bach Dang Street or capture stunning sunset views along the riverbank.

As night falls, Hoi An Ancient Town comes alive with a variety of activities that captivate both visitors and locals. From releasing flower garlands to taking a lantern-lit boat trip, here are some of the best ways to enjoy the beauty of Hoi An after dark:

1. Stroll Around Ancient Town - Hoi An Ancient Town transforms into a dazzling display of lights as night falls. Walk through narrow streets lined with colourful lanterns, illuminated temples and historic buildings.
2. Admire the Night Lanterns - Head to Nguyen Phuc Chu Street to admire the beautiful lanterns, which take centre stage every night to create a magical atmosphere.
3. Take a Boat Trip on Hoai River - Embark on a lantern-lit boat trip along the Hoai River to enjoy the glittering reflection of lights on the water.
4. Release Flower Garlands and Make a Wish - Take part in the tradition of releasing paper lanterns onto the Hoai River — a highlight of the Hoi An Lantern Festival.
5. Shop at the Night Market - Shop for local handicrafts and souvenirs at Hoi An’s bustling night market.
6. Go on a Local Food Tour - Sample local specialties from street food stalls and eateries while basking in the lively evening ambience.
7. Join Traditional Vietnamese Games - Immerse in Hoi An’s culture by participating in traditional Vietnamese games such as Bai Choi, blindfolded pot smashing and human chess.

For the perfect blend of luxury and family-friendly amenities, Angsana Lăng Cô is the premier choice for Hoi An family accommodation. Located just an hour’s drive from Hoi An, Angsana Lăng Cô offers spacious suites, lofts and private pool villas that provide exceptional comfort for families. The resort caters to younger guests with a variety of activities, including traditional basket boat rides, birdwatching and nature tours at Bach Ma National Park.

At Angsana Lăng Cô, one of the best places to stay in Da Nang, Vietnam, families can enjoy special packages featuring kid-friendly perks, such as complimentary meals for children, access to kids’ clubs and other recreational facilities and more.

Our hotel in Da Nang, Vietnam also offers two exciting tours: Hoi An Discovery, which includes visits to iconic landmarks like the Japanese Bridge and Phung Hung Old House, and the Hoi An Cycling Tour, where families can explore the historic town of Hoi An on a traditional three-wheeled cyclo for an authentic local experience. Both tours include transportation, entrance fees and a tour guide to ensure a unique, seamless and unforgettable adventure.

Experience the ultimate family retreat in Angsana Lăng Cô’s newly-launched Family Suite, featuring themed children’s rooms including Safari, Ocean, Jurassic and Fantasy.

With extensive shared spaces, complimentary board games and special kid-friendly activities, this thoughtfully appointed accommodation is perfect for family bonding.

Parents can relax in a private bedroom with stunning floor-to-ceiling views of Lăng Cô Bay, while little ones enjoy a bunk bed surrounded by creative, lively artworks and playful decorations.

Create lasting family memories in this haven designed for connection and relaxation.