In this post, I will help you to find where to stay in Hoi An, best areas/districts to stay in Hoi An (with a map), the best hotel for all budgets (including the hotel where I stayed).
Hoi An is a beautiful historic city in Quang Nam Province, central Vietnam. Hoi An is renowned for its well-preserved ancient architecture, cultural heritage, and charming atmosphere, making it a popular destination for tourists from around the world.
The heart of Hoi An is its Ancient Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The streets are adorned with lanterns, traditional houses, and buildings reflecting a mix of architectural styles, including Chinese, Japanese, and European influences. Motorized vehicles are restricted in this area, allowing visitors to explore the town on foot or by bicycle.
Hoi An is famous for its Lantern Festival, which takes place on the 14th day of each lunar month. During this time, the town is illuminated with colorful lanterns, creating a magical atmosphere.
Hoi An is known for its delectable cuisine, with a strong emphasis on fresh seafood and local specialties. You can enjoy delicious dishes like “Cao Lau” (noodles with pork and herbs), “Mi Quang” (turmeric-infused noodles), and “White Rose” (shrimp dumplings).
Hoi An is also a renowned destination for custom-made clothing. The town is dotted with numerous tailor shops where visitors can have clothes tailored to their measurements and preferences at reasonable price.
Hoi An boasts several historical and cultural landmarks worth exploring. Some of the notable sites include the Japanese Covered Bridge, Assembly Halls, ancient temples, and old merchant houses.
The Thu Bon River flows through Hoi An, offering picturesque scenes and opportunities for boat rides or river cruises. You can enjoy the beauty of the town’s architecture from the water, especially during sunset.
Hoi An serves as a great base for exploring nearby attractions, including the My Son Sanctuary (another UNESCO World Heritage Site), Marble Mountains, and the beautiful beaches of An Bang and Cua Dai.
Where to Stay in Hoi An first time?
The best areas to stay in Hoi An for tourists are Old Town, An Hoi, Cam Pho, Cam Chau, Cua Dai Beach, An Bang Beach, and Cam Thanh. These neighborhoods offer plenty of accommodation options for all budget travelers.
Hoi An Old Town is the historic heart of Hoi An and is the best overall place to stay in Hoi An for first-time visitors. It offers an authentic local atmosphere and easy access to top tourist attractions like the Japanese Covered Bridge and the Assembly Hall Of Fujian Chinese.
An Hoi is the best base for lively nightlife, Cam Pho is the best district for budget travelers, Cam Chau is the best part for relaxing vacation, Cua Dai & An Bang are best locations for beach holiday, and Cam Thanh offers rustic and traditional experience.
Where did I stay in Hoi An?
When I first visited Hoi An, I stayed for 5 nights at the Hoi An TNT Villa. It has a great location, a short walk from the Old Town and major sights such as the Japanese Covered Bridge. My room was spacious and had a great view out onto the pool. My breakfast was lovely.
| 💖 Best Area for first-timers: | Hoi An Old Town |
| 💎 Best luxury hotel: | Almanity Hoi An Resort & Spa |
| 🏨 Best mid-range hotel: | Lion King Hotel |
| 💰 Best budget hotel: | Hoi An Pho Library Hotel |
Best areas and neighborhoods in Hoi An for visitors:
6 Best areas to Stay in Hoi An for tourists are:
1. Old Town – best overall area for first-time visitors
Hoi An Old Town is the best overall area to stay in Hoi An for first-timers. It is a charming and historic district and is renowned for its well-preserved architectural heritage and cultural significance.
Hoi An Old Town dates back to the 15th century when it was an important trading port during the Cham Kingdom and later became a bustling trading hub during the 16th and 17th centuries. The town was influenced by Chinese, Japanese, and European traders, which is evident in its unique architecture.
The architecture of Hoi An Old Town is a blend of different styles, featuring wooden Chinese shophouses, colorful French colonial buildings, and Japanese-designed bridges. The town’s buildings are well-preserved, and many have been converted into shops, galleries, restaurants, and guesthouses.
In 1999, Hoi An Old Town was recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site due to its historical significance and architectural value. The recognition helped to promote the preservation and conservation of the town’s unique heritage.
Some of the main attractions in Hoi An Old Town include the Japanese Covered Bridge (Chùa Cầu), the Assembly Halls of the Chinese community, the Old House of Tan Ky, and the Fujian Assembly Hall, among others.
The town also has numerous art galleries, tailor shops, and local handicraft stores.Hoi An Old Town is a paradise for shoppers, especially for those interested in tailor-made clothing.
The town has numerous restaurants and street food vendors offering a taste of traditional Vietnamese dishes.
Hoi An Old Town is situated along the Thu Bon River, and a stroll along the riverfront offers stunning views of the town’s architecture and the surrounding countryside.
Due to its popularity, the Old Town can be noisy and expensive but overall, it is a perfect base for first-timer, history lovers, families, and couples seeking a Central location with easy access to the ancient quarter, night markets, great food, and lively atmosphere.
Best places to stay in Hoi An Old Town:
Luxury ($$$): Almanity Hoi An Resort & Spa,5-star hotel, located around a stunning purified salt-water swimming pool and a lush Zen Garden in the heart of Hoi An Ancient Town. It has an on-site restaurant with ingredients from the Organic Garden Farm.
Mid-range ($$): Lion King Hotel,3-star hotel located close to Hoi An Historic Museum, Japanese Covered Bridge and Assembly Hall of Chaozhou Chinese Congregation.
Budget ($): Hoi An Pho Library Hotel, 2-star hotel, located in central Hoi An, within a short distance from culturally rich Old Town, with its 19th century houses, temples and the Ancient Japanese Covered Bridge at Old Town. It is also a short drive from Cua Dai and An Bang beaches.
BEST HOTELS IN OLD TOWN2. An Hoi – great base for nightlife
An Hoi is a small island and a cool neighborhood situated on the Thu Bon River, just across the iconic Japanese Covered Bridge from the main part of Hoi An. It is accessible by a bridge, making it easy for visitors to explore the island and enjoy its attractions.
The island comes alive at night with a vibrant Hoi An Night Market where you can find a wide range of souvenirs, handicrafts, clothing, and local delicacies.
There are numerous trendy restaurants and cafes along the riverbank where visitors can enjoy local Vietnamese cuisine while admiring the beautiful views of the Thu Bon River and the lanterns adorning the streets.
You can take boat rides along the river to see the charming views of Hoi An from the water and witness the traditional way of life of the locals.
An Hoi island is a place where you can watch traditional Vietnamese water puppet shows, a unique and entertaining art form.
The island is a hub for various cultural events and festivals, especially during special occasions like the Lunar New Year (Tet) and the Hoi An Lantern Festival.
Best places to stay in Hoi An in An Hoi:
- Luxury ($$$): Bel Marina Hoi An Resort, 5-star hotel, centrally located within walking distance from Hoi An Ancient Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Mid-range ($$): Emerald Hoi An Riverside Resort, 4-star hotel, located within easy walk from Hoi An Old Quarter. It is a short distance from Hoi An Night Market, Cua Dai Beach, and Da Nang International Airport.
- Budget ($): Hoi An Riverland Villa – Hoi An Center , 3-star hotel located within a short distance from the Japanese Covered Bridge. It has an outdoor swimming pool, air-conditioned rooms with a private bathroom, a tour desk and currency exchange.
3. Cam Pho – great district in Hoi An for budget travelers
Cam Pho is one of the best districts to stay in Hoi An for tourists, especially budget-conscious travelers. The neighborhoods offer a wide range of affordable accommodation and restaurants as well as easy access to the Old Town.
In addition to proximity to the attractions in Old Town, Cam Pho has numerous attractions, including the Japanese Covered Bridge, Hoi An Theatre, 18th century Cam Pho temple, the Museum of Folk Culture, Phung Hung Old House, and the Museum of Sa Huynh Culture.
Additionally, art lovers can find many art galleries on Ba Trieu Street, and traditional houses on Thoai Ngoc Hau.
Best places to stay in Hoi An in Cam Pho:
Luxury ($$$): Allegro Hoi An, 5-star hotel, located within walking distance from the Japanese Covered Bridge and the Assembly Hall of the Cantonese Chinese Congregation. The hotel offers free use of bicycles and shuttle service to Hoi An Ancient Town and An Bang Beach. Also close to the Night Market and Museum of Folklore.
Mid-range ($$): Silkotel Hoi An, 4-star hotel in the heart of tranquil Hoi An, providing relaxing accommodation in Hoi An. It is a short distance from the Japanese Covered Bridge and Thanh Ha Village.
Budget ($): Hoang Trinh Hotel, 2-star hotel, located within a 10-minute walk from Hoi An Night Market, Japanese Covered Bridge, Assembly Hall of the Cantonese Chinese Congregation.
BEST HOTELS IN CAM PHO4. Cam Chau – laid-back part of Hoi An with beautiful rice fields
Cam Chau is a laid-back area, conveniently located between Hoi An Old Town, the river, and the beaches. It is surrounded by rice paddies and is best to explore on bicycles.
Cam Chau is home to numerous trendy art galleries, yoga, seafood restaurants, and cafes. Art lovers and history buffs can visit the Precious Heritage Art Gallery Museum.
Cam Chau is a great base for experiencing authentic Vietnamese, and to enjoy a quiet relaxing holiday while having easy access to the Ancient Town and beaches.
Best places to stay in Hoi An in Cam Chau:
Luxury ($$$): Little Riverside Hoi An, 5-star hotel that has a private beach area, an outdoor swimming pool, and free use of bicycles. It is a short distance from Kim Bong Carpentry Village, Assembly Hall of the Hainan and Quan Cong Temple.
Luxury ($$$): Anantara Hoi An Resort, 5-star hotel has French colonial architecture, located along Thu Bon River. You can learn conversational Vietnamese, join daily yoga classes, take boat trips along the river, or take tours to the Cham Imperial City of My Son or the Marble Mountain.
Mid-range ($$): Hoi An Blue Sky Boutique Hotel & Spa, 4-star hotel, offering free bikes, outdoor swimming pool, a garden, a restaurant and a bar, as well as airport transfers.
Budget ($): Royal Mansion Boutique Hoi An, 3-star hotel, located in an area popular for cycling, and the hotel offers bike hire.
BEST HOTELS IN CAM CHAU5. Cua Dai Beach – great location for a relaxing beach holiday
Cua Dai Beach is a beautiful and popular beach situated on Cam An Ward, about 5 kilometers northeast of Hoi An’s Old Town and is easily accessible by car or motorbike.
Cua Dai Beach is renowned for its soft, white sandy shores and clear blue waters, creating a picturesque setting for relaxation and water activities. It is an ideal spot for beach lovers and sunseekers.
Tourists can enjoy various activities such as swimming, sunbathing, beach sports, and taking leisurely walks along the shoreline.
Several luxurious beachfront resorts and hotels line the shores, making it a popular spot for travelers seeking a relaxing seaside vacation.
Best places to stay in Cua Dai Beach:
- Luxury ($$$): Palm Garden Beach Resort & Spa, 5-star hotel located along Cua Dai Beach, in 5 hectares of landscaped gardens.
- Mid-range ($$): Hoi An Beach Resort, 4-star hotel located between Cua Dai Beach and De Vong River, offering two-way shuttle services to Hoi An Ancient Town.
- Budget ($): Sea and Sand Hotel, 3-star hotel, located on the edge of Cua Dai Beach, 10-minute drive to the ancient Hoi An town.
6. An Bang Beach – great location for beach lovers
An Bang Beach is a popular beach situated next to Cua Dai Beach, about 3 kilometers from the center of Hoi An, making it easily accessible for tourists and locals alike.
The beach offers a serene and relaxing environment, with soft sandy shores and clear blue waters. It’s an ideal spot for sunbathing, swimming, and enjoying the beautiful coastline.
One of the reasons why An Bang Beach has become increasingly popular is its laid-back atmosphere and fewer crowds compared to other well-known tourist destinations in Vietnam.
Along the beach, you can find a variety of beachfront bars, seafood restaurants, and small shops selling souvenirs and beach essentials.
Best places to stay in An Bang Beach:
- Luxury ($$$): Citadines Pearl Hoi An, 5-star seafront hotel that has a private beach area and family rooms and kids’ club, making it a great place for family beach vacation.
- Mid-range ($$): Sea’lavie Boutique Resort & Spa, 4-star hotel, located a few steps from An Bang Beach, offering free bikes, free private parking, and currency exchange.
- Budget ($): An Bang Beach Dolphin Homestay, 3-star accommodation that offers a private beach area, and within walking distance from An Bang Beach.
7. Cam Thanh – countryside area near Hoi An
Cam Thanh is a village located near Hoi An, which is known for its well-preserved ancient town, traditional architecture, lantern-lit streets, and beautiful riverside setting. Cam Thanh, on the other hand, offers a more rustic and traditional experience.
Cam Thanh is renowned for its coconut palm forests and unique basket boat rides. The village is surrounded by water coconut palms, which were once used as a natural defense during the Vietnam War. Today, these palm forests attract tourists who want to explore the tranquil and scenic waterways.
One of the main attractions in Cam Thanh is the basket boat tour. These circular basket-shaped boats, also known as thung chai or coracles, are made from bamboo and are traditionally used by local fishermen to catch fish and crabs.
Tourists can take a leisurely ride in these boats through the waterways while enjoying the picturesque landscape and learning about the traditional fishing techniques.
Visitors to Cam Thanh can also participate in various activities such as fishing, crab catching, and traditional net fishing with the help of local fishermen. This experience provides an insight into the daily life of the fishing communities in the region.
In addition to its natural beauty and cultural experiences, Cam Thanh is also famous for its ecotourism initiatives and efforts to preserve the environment. Many tour operators in the area focus on sustainable tourism practices, which help protect the fragile ecosystem of the coconut palm forests and support the livelihoods of the local community.
If you’re visiting Hoi An, a trip to Cam Thanh can be a unique and enriching experience, offering a different perspective on Vietnam’s traditional way of life and its natural beauty.
Best places to stay in Hoi An in Cam Thanh:
- Mid-range ($$): Flower Villa, 4-star family-friendly hotel that offers a children’s playground. The area is popular for cycling, and the hotel offers rental bikes.
- Mid-range ($$): Zest Villas & Spa Hoi An , 4-star hotel that has air conditioning rooms, a safety deposit box and a private bathroom with a shower.
- Budget ($): Coco Village Homestay Hoi An, great accommodation in a quiet neighborhood in Hoi An.
Where should I stay in Hoi An for the first time?
For a first-time visitor, I would recommend staying in or near the Old Town area. This location allows you to immerse yourself in the historical ambiance and easily explore the city’s attractions, markets, shops, and restaurants on foot or by bicycle.
What part of Hoi An is best to stay in?
The best parts of Hoi An for tourists to book a hotel are Old Town, An Hoi, Cam Pho, Cam Chau, Cua Dai Beach, An Bang Beach, and Cam Thanh. These areas offer a wide selection of accommodation options for all budgets.
How many days do you need in Hoi An?
A typical visit to Hoi An often ranges from 2 to 4 days, which gives you enough time to explore the main attractions, enjoy the local cuisine, visit the beaches, and experience the unique atmosphere of the town.
See more:
- Where to stay in Da Nang First Time
- Where to stay in Vietnam
- Where to Stay in Ho Chi Minh City First Time
- Where to stay in Hanoi First Time
In conclusion, Old Town, An Hoi, Cam Pho, Cam Chau, Cua Dai & An Bang Beach, and Cam Thanh are some of the best places to stay in Hoi An for tourists. Each area has its own charm, so the best area depends on your interests and the kind of experience you want to have.
Personally, I recommend Hoi An Old Town as the best overall location for first-time visitors. Staying in or near the ancient town allows you to immerse yourself in the city’s unique atmosphere. You’ll be close to historical sites, temples, shops, restaurants.