Ever dreamt of a getaway to the charming streets of Hoi An, Vietnam? Picture this: lantern-lit alleyways, centuries-old architecture and vibrant markets bustling with life. This ain’t just any travel plan; it’s your 2-day Hoi An itinerary.
You’re probably wondering,
“How do I get there and around?”
We’ve got you covered from flying into Danang Airport to exploring Hoi An’s pedestrian-friendly Old Town. We’ll even give tips on how to best use local transportation options like bicycles or Grab for rides within the city.
“What about spending money?”
No worries mate! Cash is king in Vietnam, but we’ll dive more into that later. What’s more?
The must-visit attractions!
Do not overlook this – it’s a must! Trust me on this one!
Getting to Hoi An for your 2 day itinerary trip
Traveling to the heart of Vietnam’s culture-rich town, Hoi An, is an experience that starts with the journey itself. The city sits pretty in central Vietnam and boasts a wealth of travel options for visitors from all over.
Flying into Danang Airport
Danang International Airport serves as your aerial gateway to Hoi An. A popular choice among travellers, it caters flights from major Vietnamese cities such as Ho Chi Minh City (Vietnam Airlines, roughly 1 hour 20 minutes flight time) and Hanoi (Jetstar Pacific Airlines, about 1 hour 35 minutes).
The airport facilities are modern and well-equipped ensuring you have everything you need upon arrival or departure. From local SIM cards to tasty bites at cafés – it’s all there.
Ground Transportation to Hoi An
Landing at Danang puts you just under an hour away from historic lanes of Hoi An. Let’s look at our options for covering the distance to Hoi An.
A straightforward option is hopping into a taxi directly outside the arrivals hall – but make sure they turn on their meter. If negotiating isn’t your thing then consider pre-booking private car service like HoiAn Express Travel Service. For those looking for more economical options might find shuttle bus services appealing; most hotels in Hoi An provide these services so don’t forget to ask when booking your stay.
Just remember: “the journey not only broadens our horizons but also allows us deeper insights into the culture and customs of a new place”. So, buckle up for your journey to Hoi An – an experience that’s more than just a means to get from point A to B. It’s where your Vietnamese adventure truly starts.
Key Takeaway:
Embarking on a journey to Hoi An, the cultural heart of Vietnam, is an adventure from start. Fly into Danang International Airport – modern and packed with handy amenities. From there, it’s under an hour by taxi or pre-booked car service to reach historic Hoi An. And remember: the trip itself enriches your understanding of Vietnamese culture.
GETTING Around Hoi An
Exploring the enchanting town of Hoi An is a traveller’s delight. With its pedestrian-friendly streets and affordable local transport, getting around this UNESCO World Heritage Site is easier than you might think.
Exploring the Pedestrian-Friendly Old Town
Hoi An’s historic Old Town, closed to cars for most hours, invites visitors on foot. Strolling through its lantern-lit alleys provides an intimate look at Vietnam’s past while preserving tranquillity in today’s fast-paced world.
The car-free periods are typically from 9 am -11 am and from 3 pm-9:30 pm daily but can vary during special occasions or festivals. So, it makes sense to check with your hotel staff before planning your walkabouts.
Renting Bicycles for Local Exploration
If you fancy covering more ground without losing touch with the locale’s essence, consider renting bicycles. They’re not only cheap but also provide a sustainable way to explore beyond just Old Town.
Bike rental shops are dotted all over town (Lonely Planet guide here.) offering bikes at roughly AUD $1 per day – that’s cheaper than a cuppa back home.
Using Grab for Convenient Rides
Grab,Vietnam’s popular ride-sharing app, offers reliable rides within Hoi An if cycling isn’t up your alley or when visiting attractions further out like My Son or Tra Que Vegetable Village.
It’s like Uber, but for Vietnam. With an English-friendly interface and fair prices, Grab is a great choice to move around the town with ease.
Make sure you have enough cash as some drivers prefer it over card payments due to local banking fees.
Crossing Vietnamese Streets – A Survival Guide
the energy and activity that fills Hoi An. Navigating the roads could be a tricky affair, yet it’s all part of what makes Hoi An so special and lets you get a real feel for this lively locale.
Key Takeaway:
Getting around Hoi An is a breeze with its walkable Old Town, affordable bike rentals and the handy Grab app. But remember to check car-free hours for strolls through Old Town and always have cash on hand for your rides. Crossing streets might be tricky but it’s part of the city’s charm.
Currency Preferences in Vietnam
While travelling through the enchanting landscapes of Hoi An, it’s essential to get your dollars sorted. So, what’s the money game like in Vietnam? Simply put: Cash is king.
The Vietnamese Dong (VND) reigns supreme across markets and small businesses alike. Though credit cards are accepted at hotels and upscale restaurants, you’ll need a wad of VND for that authentic street food or trinket from a local market.
It might seem daunting carrying around millions of Dongs – don’t worry; we’ve all been there. But once you’re used to dealing with thousands instead of tens, it becomes second nature.
Navigating ATMs in Hoi An
ATMs are quite abundant throughout Hoi An making cash withdrawal pretty straightforward. But be warned – not all machines play fair when it comes to fees. It pays off (literally.) to know which banks charge less per transaction. For instance, Techcombank‘s ATM fee tends to be lower compared with other banks.
You can withdraw up to 3 million VND per transaction but watch out for those pesky conversion rates as they vary between different ATMs.
Tips on Currency Exchange
If bringing cash into the country feels safer than trusting an unknown machine then currency exchange outlets got your back.
Golden Holiday Travel Services, located right in Old Town provides decent rates without any hidden charges.
Folks at Hai Van are pretty straightforward with their rates and offer excellent service too. They’re just a bike ride away from the city centre, so make sure to drop by.
Credit Cards: When To Use Them
As mentioned earlier, credit cards are accepted in most high-end establishments in Hoi An but be ready for those extra charges. Restaurants often add a 2-3% fee on card transactions.
A tip for you savvy travellers – Citibank Plus account holders, rejoice. You can withdraw cash without overseas transaction fees at Citibank ATMs.
Key Takeaway:
Lastly, while your credit card might be handy back home, remember that Hoi An is a cash-based society. Be sure to familiarise yourself with the Vietnamese Dong (VND) for an authentic local experience. Watch out for ATM fees and conversion rates – Techcombank usually has lower charges than other banks. If you’d rather bring money from home, consider using currency exchange services like Golden Holiday Travel Services or Hai Van.
Must-Visit Attractions in Hoi An
The rich cultural heritage and breathtaking natural beauty of Hoi An offer a treasure trove of experiences. Let’s unveil the most unforgettable attractions.
The Architectural Blend of Old Town
A stroll through Hoi An’s Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is like stepping back in time. Its unique blend of French, Chinese, and Japanese architectural styles makes it an aesthetic marvel. Each building tells tales from different eras – some harking back to the 15th century when this town was a bustling port on the Silk Route.
Fascinating sites include ancient houses such as Tan Ky House and Phung Hung House which have preserved their traditional charm for over two centuries. But there’s more than just architecture; at every corner you’ll find vibrant markets selling local crafts, quaint cafés serving Vietnamese coffee and tasty street food stalls whipping up local favourites like Cao Lau noodles.
Marble Mountains’ Panoramic Views and Buddhist Shrines
No trip to Hoi An would be complete without exploring Marble Mountains – five marble outcrops named after elements: water, wood, fire, metal & earth (Thuy Son being the tallest). It’s about 20km north-east but definitely worth your while. Take note though – make sure you’ve got sturdy shoes because climbing its stairs can be challenging.
This popular stopover not only offers panoramic views across Danang City but also homes numerous grottoes filled with stunning Buddhist shrines that promise spiritual experiences unlike any other. Remember to explore Tang Chon Cave where locals say Buddha once meditated or visit Quan The Am Pagoda known for its ornate statues.
The Bustling Old Quarter
The heart of Hoi An is home to its vibrant Old Quarter. As evening falls, lanterns flicker on, casting a spellbinding light over the slender lanes. This corner truly sparks up when night arrives, with street performers captivating audiences and buzzing bars dishing out local tipples.
Key Takeaway:
Discover the cultural richness of Hoi An’s Old Town, a unique blend of Asian and European architecture with lively markets, local food stalls and historic houses. Don’t miss out on the panoramic views from Marble Mountains’ five peaks – remember your sturdy shoes. Finally, experience the vibrant nightlife in the lantern-lit Old Quarter where music, performance and good cheer abound.
Shopping and Tailoring Experiences in Hoi An
Hoi An is a paradise for shoppers and fashion enthusiasts, offering an abundance of tailors who are masters at their craft. In Hoi An, you can come across exclusive garments that have been tailored specifically for you.
Custom-Made Clothing from Local Tailors
The artistry of local tailors in Hoi An has gained international acclaim. Known as the ‘Tailor Town’, it boasts over 400 tailor shops ready to create bespoke outfits that cater perfectly to your style.
Your visit isn’t complete without getting custom-made clothing. The process is simple – choose a design, get measured up by expert hands, select fabric and details like buttons or embroidery; then sit back while they work their magic.
The turnaround times here will surprise you. Often within 24 hours or less depending on the complexity of designs (source). This makes it perfect even if your stay in this charming town is brief.
Exploring Hoi An’s Markets
Beyond the allure of tailored clothes, there’s more shopping fun waiting for you at the vibrant markets in Hoi An – notably Central Market and night market.
Central Market:
This bustling marketplace sits by Thu Bon River where locals have been trading since the 16th century (source). Its lively atmosphere draws visitors into its maze-like layout filled with fresh produce stalls alongside vendors selling everything from aromatic spices to handmade souvenirs.
Don’t forget to haggle. Bargaining is part of the shopping experience in Vietnam, and you can often get a better deal if you’re willing to negotiate. Just remember – keep it friendly.
Night Market:
The Hoi An night market (source) comes alive as the sun sets with hundreds of lanterns illuminating over 50 stalls selling crafts, clothes, jewellery and more.
When you take a leisurely walk through this vibrant display, it’s like getting a firsthand experience of the local lifestyle.
Key Takeaway:
From custom-made clothes to vibrant markets, Hoi An is a shopper’s dream. With over 400 tailor shops, you can have bespoke outfits created in no time. Explore the historic Central Market for unique souvenirs and enjoy haggling for better deals. When night falls, the lantern-lit Night Market offers an authentic slice of local life.
Getting to Hoi An
Taking off on an adventure to the charming town of Hoi An? Great choice, mate. Gonna need to chat ’bout how ya gonna get there, mate.
Flying into Danang Airport
Danang International Airport is your gateway. It’s well-connected with direct flights from major Vietnamese cities like Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi. With just over an hour in the air from either city, you’ll be touching down before you can say “pass me a Bánh mì”. Now that’s what we call convenience.
What about international connections? No worries there. Plenty of airlines offer flights between Danang and other Asian hubs such as Bangkok or Singapore. So no matter where you are on this big blue marble, getting here isn’t much fuss at all.
Ground Transportation to Hoi An
Landed in Danang already? Brilliant. You’re almost there but not quite yet. The final leg is a 45-minute journey by road which could be covered using taxis or shuttle buses easily available outside the airport terminal.
If privacy matters more than price for ya’, then go for taxi services offering fixed rates so it doesn’t cost an arm and a leg when traffic decides to play up. Vietnam Taxi Services, have some good deals usually ranging around VND 300000 (USD 13).
Budget conscious travellers might want a cheaper option: Shuttle Bus service. For just VND120000 (around USD5), they’ll get you to Hoi An in about an hour, maybe a tad more if traffic is snarly.
Navigating Around Hoi An
Once your feet are firmly on the ground in Hoi An, it’s time to explore this enchanting town. And trust us; getting around here is as easy as pie.
Exploring the Pedestrian-Friendly Old Town
The real charm of Hoi An is found in its walkable old town. Here, motorized vehicles step aside for tourists from 9 AM-11 AM and again from 3 PM-9:30 PM.
Key Takeaway:
Embarking on a journey to Hoi An? Your gateway is Danang International Airport, just an hour’s flight from major Vietnamese cities. From there, it’s a quick 45-minute drive by taxi or shuttle bus. Once you’ve landed in Hoi An, exploring the pedestrian-friendly old town is as easy as pie.
FAQs in Relation to 2 Day Hoi an Itinerary
Is it better to stay in Hoi An or Da Nang?
Hoi An is a good bet if you’re after charm and culture. For more hustle, bustle and beaches, opt for Da Nang.
How many days should I spend in Ninh Binh?
A two-day trip gives you enough time to enjoy the stunning natural beauty of Ninh Binh without feeling rushed.
Should I visit Hue or Hoi An?
If history and architecture tickle your fancy, head to Hue. If you prefer quaint streets with a lively vibe, choose Hoi An.
How much is a taxi from Da Nang to Hoi An?
You’ll shell out about 400k-500k VND ($17-$22 AUD) for a one-way taxi ride from Da Nang to Hoi An.
Conclusion
So, there you have it, mates. Your ultimate 2 Day Hoi An Itinerary is ready to roll.
Flying into Danang Airport? Sorted. Navigating around Hoi An’s Old Town on a bike or Grab ride? Too easy!
The beauty of Vietnam’s cash culture won’t leave you wondering anymore either.
With our guide, the architectural marvels of Old Town and Marble Mountains are just a few steps away. The vibrant energy of the Old Quarter awaits your visit too!
No trip would be complete without experiencing Hoi An’s shopping scene with its bustling markets and unique tailoring services.
Remember these tips for an unforgettable journey in this charming city!
