Hoi An is known as one of the famous tourist destinations in Vietnam, a tranquil city with many beautiful scenes. Travelers who come here not only delight in the ancient and romantic ambiance but also have the opportunity to take stunning Instagram-worthy photos and “collect” incredibly cool shots. Many couples also choose to come here to capture the moments of their wedding photos. If you’re planning to visit the ancient town, don’t forget to bookmark the list of the top famous tourist attractions in Hoi An below to satisfy your passion!
Table of Contents
Hoi An – The World’s Best Tourist Photography Spots
Hoi An Ancient Town is an old city located on the lower Thu Bon River, in the coastal plain of Quang Nam province, about 30 km from the center of Da Nang. With its timeless beauty, this place has become a famous tourist destination, attracting thousands of domestic and international tourists.
Travelers come to this land not only to explore and experience but also to take home thousands of “million-liked” photos when capturing images with the ancient streets, old yellow-walled and mossy red-tiled houses, sparkling lanterns, narrow alleyways, and paper flower arches. You can book a Hoi An tour departing from Da Nang to visit all 26 Instagrammable spots in Hoi An to capture beautiful photos.
This city has had the honor of being listed among the top 17 most amazing selfie spots in the world. This title was awarded by readers of the famous Buzzfeed website. They commented that the common annoyances of a modern world, such as traffic jams and pollution, are completely absent in Hoi An. The combination of delicate architecture and breathtaking scenery here continues to win the hearts of people and is their preferred choice.
It must be said that Hoi An, though small compared to Da Nang or Hue, is fortunate to have an abundance of “so deep” photo opportunities. All you need to do is select the right angle and strike a fitting pose, and you’ll have enchanting pictures. Pocket these suggested photo spots recommended by PrivateCarTransferHoiAn.com!
Places in Hoi An’s Ancient Town
Japanese Covered Bridge
This is a place that almost anyone visiting Hoi An will stop by. Japanese Covered Bridge is considered a famous symbol of this city. The structure is noteworthy for its unique architecture, blending Vietnamese and Japanese cultures. Its location north of the Hoai River makes it stand out in the ancient town. With its graceful curves, this place attracts many visitors for sightseeing, photography, and becomes an ideal backdrop for young people.
- Location: Nguyen Thi Minh Khai Street, Hoi An City
Hoi An Lantern Street
One of Hoi An’s distinctive features is its lanterns. They look beautiful in daylight, but when night falls, these lanterns shine even brighter and more radiant. They are hung everywhere, from inside houses to the streets, bridges, and more. While these lanterns may seem simple, they, combined with the ancient alleys and mossy walls, add a unique charm to the Lantern Street. If you want some super glamorous, nostalgic, and romantic pictures, this famous tourist spot in Hoi An is a must-visit.
- Location: Hoi An Ancient Town along Tran Phu and Nguyen Thai Hoc Streets
In Hoi An, most tourists take a boat ride to release lanterns for good luck and peace. You can learn about this activity through the article “Releasing Lanterns in Hoi An on the Full Moon Day, What Does It Mean?”
Phuc Kien Assembly Hall
Phuc Kien Assembly Hall is one of the most well-known assembly halls of the Chinese community in Hoi An. After several renovations, it has become even more magnificent. You can easily see this through the intricate and skillful details displayed here. The assembly hall offers a spacious area, lush gardens, and vibrant plant life. If you appreciate the nostalgia of Chinese architecture, come here to admire and take Instagram-worthy photos. You won’t be disappointed.
- Location: 46 Tran Phu Street, Hoi An City
Tan Ky Ancient House
This is the oldest ancient house in Hoi An’s old town and is frequently visited by tourists. Tan Ky Ancient House is designed and constructed with traditional materials, with various rooms serving different functions. If you want to capture aristocratic photos, visit this place. Or you can simply stand outside the gate and still get some cool photos.
- Location: 101 Nguyen Thai Hoc Street, Minh An Ward, Hoi An City
Quang Dong Assembly Hall
Quang Dong Assembly Hall, also known as Quang Trieu Pagoda, was built hundreds of years ago with distinctive ancient beauty that continues to attract visitors daily. With unique architecture constructed in the shape of the Chinese character “国,” and materials made from wood and stone, it stands out. It includes an entrance gate, a spacious garden, an auditorium, and two rows of houses from east to west, exuding a sense of antiquity. When you visit, make sure to stand outside the gate for a check-in photo; it’s guaranteed to be beautiful.
- Location: 176 Tran Phu Street, Hoi An City
Tam Quan Ba Mu Pagoda
When talking about beautiful tourist spots in Hoi An, Tam Quan Ba Mu Pagoda cannot be overlooked. This architectural masterpiece has been praised by researchers at home and abroad as a remarkably beautiful structure in Quang Nam Province. Over time, only the entrance gate remains. However, after restoration and the addition of a spacious, cool space with a lake, water tanks, lawns, and quiet, solemn check-in corners, it has created a beautiful background for photos.
- Location: 675 Hai Ba Trung Street, Hoi An City
Paper Lantern Arrangements and Golden Walls
In addition to the distinctive lanterns, when you set foot in Hoi An, you’ll find an abundance of paper lantern arrangements. These not only provide shade but also make the ancient town even more magnificent. When combined with the artistic golden walls, the scenery becomes even more radiant. Anyone passing by stops to admire and capture nostalgic and memorable photos, especially when the sun shines through.
- Location: Around Hoi An Ancient Town
Wall on Hoang Van Thu Street
A beautiful photo spot in Hoi An that many young people hunt for is the wall on Hoang Van Thu Street. Its allure lies in the layers of moss-covered walls arranged in front to back, creating depth for photos. The old and rustic walls give your photos emotion and focus, even though they might look a bit “edgy.” If you capture them when there’s sunshine, you’ll surely create a perfect work of art.
- Location: Hoang Van Thu Street, Hoi An City
Hoai River
Every time you search for keywords related to Hoi An or Hoi An travel, about 90% of the photos show Hoai River’s tranquil banks. Visiting the ancient town, it seems that everyone must admire the peaceful Hoai River. Along the riverbank, there are always rowing services for strolls on the river. You can experience sitting in a boat, looking at the scenery on both sides, and taking charming photos to share on Facebook, so that everyone will immediately recognize where you are.
- Location: Right on the edge of Hoi An Ancient Town
Narrow Alleys in the Ancient Town
Many people liken the narrow alleys in the ancient town to storytellers of the land, preserving the beauty and local life of the area. There is nothing particularly special about them, but with the characteristic narrow and long layout, surrounded by artistic golden walls, they have become a distinctive feature that cannot be mixed with anywhere else. This is a place where tourists, especially young people, often choose to take Instagram-worthy photos.
- Location: Around Hoi An Ancient Town
Hoi An Market
One of the tourist spots in Hoi An where you can take breathtaking photos, often overlooked by enthusiasts, is Hoi An Market. Located in the heart of the ancient town, visitors can reach it by walking a few minutes. Like the city itself, the market is characterized by its vibrant yellow color and traditional design. This is the city’s main trading and business center. At the market, you can learn about the local people’s way of life, savor delicious food, and purchase various items. But don’t forget to take some photos in front of the market gate, as it’s very beautiful.
- Location: Tran Phu Street, Bach Dang, Nguyen Thai Hoc
Hoi An Bridge
Many people might confuse this with the Bridge Pagoda, but this is a completely different bridge, very close by, crossing the bustling Hoai River with boats constantly passing by. The bridge is made of wood and exquisitely carved, decorated with various multicolored lanterns. With its impressive design and ideal location, Hoi An Bridge welcomes thousands of visitors daily. It’s also a place where tourists often stop to take photos.
- Location: Bach Dang Street, Minh An Ward, Hoi An City
Le Nghia Basketball Court
Another beautiful place in Hoi An that is currently gaining popularity among young people is the Le Nghia basketball court. The basketball court comes from the film “The Girl from Yesterday” and has a unique charm with black Chinese characters written on a white wall, with black tile roofs above. In addition, the golden wall with green windows, a spacious courtyard, or paper lantern arrangements on the stairs all create charming photo spots. You will surely have some very cool photos without having to strike any complex poses.
- Location: 31 Phan Chu Trinh, Minh An Ward, Hoi An City
The places located outside the central area of Hoi An
My Son Sanctuary
My Son Sanctuary, located in Quang Nam Province, Vietnam, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that is known for its ancient Hindu temples and ruins. These temples were constructed by the Champa Kingdom between the 4th and 14th centuries and were dedicated to various Hindu deities, primarily Lord Shiva. The sanctuary is a significant archaeological site and a testament to the rich cultural and religious history of the region.
The My Son Sanctuary features a collection of well-preserved tower temples, built in a unique architectural style that blends indigenous and Hindu influences. Despite suffering damage during the Vietnam War, many of the temples have been restored, allowing visitors to explore their intricate carvings, sculptures, and historical significance.
Impression Hoi An Park
Impression Hoi An Park is like a miniature Hoi An, with streets, a river, and rows of lanterns. Visitors often say there are three Instagram-worthy corners within every square meter here, so if you are looking for places to take photos, you will be satisfied because there are plenty of photo spots. The unique combination of architecture from different countries such as Japan, China, and Vietnam, along with greenery, creates a spacious and comfortable atmosphere for excellent photos.
- Location: 159 Nguyen Tri Phuong, Cam Nam, Hoi An
Thanh Ha Pottery Village
Located along the Thu Bon River, Thanh Ha Pottery Village is a favorite spot for many tourists. Visiting this traditional craft village, tourists can immerse themselves in the peaceful and rustic atmosphere of Vietnamese countryside. You can also try your hand at making pottery items that you like. Moreover, the village features many brick-walled houses with brown, dark red, and dominant yellow tile roofs. The brick kiln park nearby makes it a popular place for young people to check-in.
- Location: Pham Phan, Thanh Ha, Hoi An City
An Bang Beach
Compared to Cua Dai Beach, An Bang Beach, although newly emerging in recent years, has quickly become very attractive to visitors from near and far. It has become a famous tourist spot in Hoi An, appealing to nature lovers for its tranquility. When you visit this beach, you will not only enjoy strolling on the sandy shores or frolicking in the refreshing water, but you will also find a series of enchanting backgrounds from nearby restaurants, cafes, and homestays.
- Location: Hai Ba Trung Street, Hoi An City
Abandoned Brick Kiln
Not far from the city center, there is an abandoned old brick kiln. Although long forgotten and located in the middle of vast fields, it has become a popular check-in spot for young people. The most distinctive feature of the brick kiln is the concrete stairs, often compared to a stairway to heaven, encircling the kiln without handrails, creating a sense of adventure against the backdrop of the bright blue sky, producing an extremely surreal scene that everyone enjoys.
- Location: Cam Kim Commune, Duy Vinh District, Hoi An
Bay Mau Coconut Forest
In the list of beautiful Hoi An tourist destinations, the Bay Mau Coconut Forest is a must-visit. It’s often referred to as the miniature Mekong Delta in Quang Nam. Upon arrival, visitors are immediately captivated by the refreshing green of the coconut trees, the serene water, and the clean air. Besides being a destination for nature lovers, the coconut forest is also a popular check-in spot because of its rustic river scenery.
- Location: Group 4 Van Lang, Cam Thanh, Hoi An
Beautiful cafes and photo studios in Hoi An
Faifo Coffee Shop
Hoi An not only boasts charming old streets, yellow walls, and small alleys but also offers numerous cafes with unique styles. One of these must-visit cafes is Faifo Coffee Shop, located right in the heart of the ancient town. Here, you can enjoy a steaming cup of coffee while admiring the views of the old town from above. The cafe has a simple and rustic decor, making it warm and inviting. It also features an open balcony on the top floor, perfect for deep and Instagram-worthy photos.
- Location: 130 Tran Phu, Hoi An
Me Hoi An Rooftop Coffee & Kitchen
Me Hoi An Rooftop Coffee & Kitchen is a must-visit cafe when in Hoi An. This rooftop cafe and bar is one of the best spots in Hoi An to enjoy a cup of Vietnamese specialty coffee or a cold beer while taking in panoramic views of the ancient town. With its beautiful view and airy space, Me Hoi An offers visitors an unforgettable coffee experience.
- Location: 166 Tran Phu, Hoi An
Mot Coffee Shop
Mot Coffee Shop is a unique and intriguing place that many young people often visit to capture beautiful vintage photos. The cafe’s space is simple and rustic, with a nostalgic “old-world” charm. With only small stools surrounding low tables, it creates a straightforward but heartfelt environment. If you’re looking for unconventional and artistic photos, Mót Coffee Shop is a must-visit.
- Location: Sidewalk of 150 Tran Phu, Hoi An
Roving Chillhouse
Roving Chillhouse is situated a bit outside the central old town, surrounded by vast green rice fields, reminiscent of Chiang Mai, Thailand. The open design of the Chillhouse allows visitors to enjoy the serene and natural scenery. It has become a popular destination for young people, not just for enjoying coffee or beverages but also for Instagram-worthy photos. It’s a familiar but timeless place to capture unique memories.
- Location: Nguyen Trai – Thanh Tay, 292 Nguyen Trai, Cua Dai, Hoi An
Cafe 92 Station
Cafe 92 Station is one of the charming and adorable cafes in Hoi An. The cafe features an adorable rooftop decorated with greenery, flowers, and iconic lanterns. It’s a favorite among young visitors, not only for its panoramic view of Hoi An but also for its delicious drinks. This cafe provides a great backdrop for captivating photos.
- Location: 92 Tran Phu, Hoi An
Sunday in Hoi An Store
At first glance, many people may mistake this place for a cafe, but Sunday in Hoi An is actually a store that sells handmade furniture. This location has become popular on social media due to its yellow wall with the words “Hoi An vibes only” and the simple beige-colored furniture and decor. The creation of charming and lovely places like this has made Hoi An an even more enticing destination.
- Location: 76 Tran Phu, Minh An Ward, Hoi An
Some tips for taking beautiful photos in Hoi An
Choose the Best Time to Take Photos
The best time to capture beautiful photos in Hoi An is typically in the early morning and before 4:30 PM. During these times, the lighting is just right, avoiding harsh sunlight or darkness. After this time frame, there tend to be larger crowds of tourists, making it more challenging to take exclusive shots.
Select Appropriate Attire
To make your photos even more beautiful, consider your choice of clothing. For women, vintage-style long dresses in light pastel colors often complement the surroundings. Traditional Vietnamese outfits like the ao dai or long dresses are also great choices for Hoi An’s settings. Couples or families can opt for coordinated outfits in similar color tones to create a harmonious and attractive look. Don’t forget to accessorize with hats, bags, sunglasses, and more.
Pose Creatively
While you don’t need to be an expert at posing, knowing some basic tips can help. Simple actions like twirling your dress gently, crossing your legs and looking in one direction, tilting your head while smiling, leaning against a wall, holding hands and laughing, or taking shots from behind with subtle movements can add depth and charm to your photos.
Travel Tips for an Ideal Trip to Hoi An:
Choose the Right Time to Visit
Depending on your needs and budget, you can choose an appropriate time to visit Hoi An. If you’re mainly interested in exploring Hoi An, a 2-day, 1-night trip is sufficient. However, if you plan to visit nearby destinations like Da Nang or Hue, consider extending your trip to 3-4 days for a more comfortable experience.
Accommodation in Hoi An
You have various options for accommodation in Hoi An, such as hotels, homestays, and more. For a premium experience with 5-star amenities, luxurious rooms, stunning views, and top-notch service, consider Vinpearl’s resorts in South Hoi An.
Budget Estimate for Independent Travel to Hoi An
Here’s an estimate of expenses for an independent trip to Hoi An:
- Transportation to Hoi An: Flights range from 380,000 – 3,000,000 VND per person, train tickets from 400,000 – 1,200,000 VND per person, and bus fares from 400,000 – 500,000 VND per person each way (for domestic tourists). Costs may vary for international travelers.
- Local Transportation: You can use taxis, buses, cyclos, or bicycles. Renting a motorbike costs around 100,000 – 150,000 VND per day, while bicycles are around 30,000 VND per day.
- Accommodation: Prices for lodging vary based on preferences but average around 300,000 VND per room per day for mid-range options. High-end hotels can cost 1,000,000 VND per day and above.
- Food Expenses: You can enjoy a variety of delicious meals for about 200,000 VND per person per day.
- Entrance Fees: Tickets for attractions within the old town range from 10,000 – 80,000 VND per person. Beaches and amusement parks might have ticket prices from 100,000 VND to 500,000 VND per person.
On average, a 3-day, 2-night trip to Hoi An will cost approximately 3,500,000 – 4,000,000 VND per person.
The above are some of the famous tourist destinations in Hoi An that you should not miss. Your youth must be spent exploring all these famous tourist destinations in Hoi An with your friends and family to avoid regrets. The journey to explore Phuc Kien Assembly Hall, the Japanese Covered Bridge, and the famous check-in spots in Hoi An will bring you wonderful memories.
