Hoi An might not be the biggest Vietnamese city, but there’s a few districts – each with its own distinct charm. So if you are deciding where to stay in Hoi An while visiting this historical city, here are 7 popular districts to consider.
The three key categories I like to segment them as is basically 1) Old Town and City 2) Nature and Village Life, and 3) The Beach. I will go in a “geographical” order, starting from the main tourism hub – The Old Town, expanding to districts further out and all the way to the coast/beach.
Old Town: The Cultural Heart of Hoi An
Known as the heart of Hoi An, the Old Town district captivates visitors with its perfectly preserved blend of European colonial and Chinese architecture. This UNESCO World Heritage Site showcases centuries of trading history through its enchanting yellow-hued buildings and iconic Japanese Covered Bridge.
The narrow, lantern-lit streets buzz with energy, especially during the magical evening hours when the ancient quarter transforms into a mesmerizing display of colorful silk lanterns.
You’ll find yourself surrounded by heritage houses, traditional temples, and bustling markets that tell stories of Hoi An’s rich maritime past. Not to mention several charming cafes that I just love.
Location Perks
Although we call it Old Town, but there’s not really many accommodations right in the old town, but rather slightly outside of it.
Staying near Old Town puts you at the epicenter of Hoi An’s most coveted experiences. Wake up early to capture the perfect photo of morning light streaming through ancient alleyways, or step out your door to sample some of the region’s most celebrated dishes.
The district’s car-free zones at night make it perfect for wandering. There’s also an abundance of cafes, boutiques, and galleries to explore.
Things to Consider
While Old Town’s central location is unbeatable, it can get quite busy during peak hours. Some quieter accommodations can be found along the edges of the ancient quarter, offering a perfect balance of accessibility and tranquillity. This is where I chose to stay – a 5-10mins walk away.
Many hotels in this area include bicycle rentals, making it easy to explore beyond the historic center when you need a break from the crowds.
Also note that some streets in Old Town can flood during the rainy season (particularly October), so check your hotel’s location and elevation if visiting during this time. The area south of Ly Thuong Kiet Street is particularly susceptible to flooding.
An Hoi: Vibrant Nightlife Across the River
Just across the Thu Bon River from Old Town, An Hoi Island pulses with energy as the sun sets. This area is known as the nightlife zone, offering a blend of traditional charm and modern entertainment. It is the ideal base for night owls.
The iconic night market comes alive after dark, filling the air with the aroma of street food and the glow of countless lanterns. The district’s famous Night Market draws both locals and tourists, offering everything from handcrafted souvenirs to mouth-watering local delicacies.
You’ll find yourself perfectly positioned to enjoy live music venues, riverside bars, and cultural performances.
Nevertheless, An Hoi’s location provides the best of both worlds being just across the old town – peaceful mornings with river views and exciting evenings full of entertainment options.
Location Perks
During daylight hours, An Hoi reveals its quieter side. The morning markets offer a glimpse into local life, while cafes along the riverfront are perfect spots for people-watching. The district’s location makes it easy to explore Old Town’s attractions by day before returning for evening entertainment.
Take advantage of the riverside promenade for sunrise walks, or join the locals for morning exercise sessions along the water. Many accommodations in An Hoi offer spectacular views of Old Town across the river, particularly magical when hundreds of colorful lanterns illuminate the water.
I imagine if you are luck with a great river-facing room, the views of Old Town’s illuminated skyline and the flow of traditional wooden boats create an unforgettable backdrop to your Hoi An stay.
The downside is obvious. If nightlife isn’t your thing, then this area might be too noisy for your liking.
Cam Pho: A Budget-Friendly Haven Near Old Town
Cam Pho district offers travelers the best of both worlds – affordable accommodation without sacrificing the convenience of being close to Hoi An’s main attractions. This vibrant neighborhood, just steps away from the Ancient Town, delivers an authentic Vietnamese experience while keeping you connected to the heart of the action.
Local Life Meets Tourist Comfort
Strolling through Cam Pho’s streets, you’ll discover a more laid-back atmosphere than Old Town, with local eateries serving up delicious Vietnamese cuisine at wallet-friendly prices. The area’s charm lies in its ability to maintain a genuine local feel while catering to visitors seeking comfortable accommodations.
If you staying in a guesthouse, there’s a good chance that the houses next door/opposite are just a local family.
Location Perks
Cam Pho shines when it comes to practical amenities. You’ll find yourself surrounded by local markets, convenience stores, and authentic street food venues. The neighborhood’s slightly removed location means you can enjoy peaceful nights while still being close enough to join the evening festivities in Old Town.
Remember to take advantage of the area’s excellent coffee shops and family-run restaurants – they often offer better value and more authentic experiences than their Old Town counterparts.
Many accommodations in Cam Pho include breakfast and bicycle rentals in their rates, making it even easier to maximize your travel budget while exploring everything Hoi An has to offer.
Tan An: A Slice of Authentic Vietnamese Life
A rather small district that’s even further away from the tourist trails of Old Town, Tan An reveals the genuine rhythm of daily Vietnamese life.
Mornings in Tan An start with the animated chatter of vendors setting up their stalls. You can sometimes smell the aroma of street food wafts through narrow lanes as things get buzzing.
This neighborhood offers budget-conscious travelers a chance to experience Hoi An like a local while still having rather easy access to major attractions. Unlike the more touristy areas, prices here start to reflect more of the local economy.
You will also find that many cafes around here are the Vietnamese style with short stools and tables, as opposed to western-style cafes.
Location Perks
Tan An’s charm lies in its authenticity – you’ll find yourself shopping alongside locals at family-run stores, sipping coffee at modest sidewalk cafes, and discovering hole-in-the-wall eateries serving delicious regional specialties. The district’s quieter atmosphere provides a welcome respite from the bustle of more touristic areas, while its strategic location means you’re never far from Hoi An’s major sights.
If you are staying for some time, you might stumble upon impromptu street performances or witness community gatherings. It’s these unscripted moments that make Tan An special for travelers.
Cam Chau and An My: Natural Beauty Meets Modern Comfort
By combining them together, this forms a big district but I think the selling point is similar. These neighborhoods present an idyllic setting that attracts travelers seeking a more peaceful time.
Tucked away from Hoi An’s tourist hotspots, Cam Chau and An My districts offer a peaceful escape into authentic Vietnamese life. Here, winding lanes meander through emerald rice paddies, and local life unfolds at a gentler pace.
Despite its countryside feel, the area maintains excellent connectivity – you’re just a short bike ride from both the Ancient Town and An Bang Beach, which kind of makes the most central location if you are looking to check out everything Hoi An has to offer.
Location Perks
The area’s family-run businesses and local markets offer a nice glimpse into Vietnamese daily life. You’ll find yourself paying more local prices for everything from banh mi to fresh produce, with friendly residents always ready to share a smile even if they don’t speak English.
Of course, if you stay more towards the villages, there are lesser amenities but more tranquillity. And the city side offers the opposite, more convenience in facilities but you still get bustle of local city life.
Regardless, the district’s excellent network of cycling paths makes it easy to explore the surrounding countryside, where you can discover hidden temples and local workshops crafting traditional goods.
Cam Thanh: Rural Paradise Between Beach and Town
Nestled between bustling Hoi An and the shimmering coastline, Cam Thanh offers an enchanting escape into Vietnam’s countryside charm. This peaceful district, is made famous by swaying palm trees and verdant rice paddies. The coconut village is the obvious highlight in this area.
Life in Cam Thanh sort of moves to nature’s rhythm due to the surrounding. It’s a tad mix of tourism blended into local life. Here you are looking at homestays, resorts and retreats.
The district’s authentic village atmosphere offers glimpses into traditional Vietnamese life rarely found in more touristy areas.
Cam Thanh’s location is also considered halfway between old town and the beach, but slightly further from the action than even Cam Chau.
Location Perks
Cam Thanh particularly appeals to families seeking a more laid-back Vietnamese experience. Kids can safely explore the quiet lanes by bicycle, watch local farmers tend their fields, or participate in traditional craft workshops.
The spacious accommodation options provide plenty of room for families to spread out, while the abundance of outdoor activities keeps everyone entertained.
An Bang: Beachside Bliss and Coastal Living
An Bang Beach offers the perfect coastal escape for beach lovers and sun seekers. A rather stark contrast from Da Nang, this laid-back beach zone is like a seaside village, but with enough amenities to keep you comfortable throughout your stay.
The pristine shoreline stretches far, dotted with charming beach bars and seafood restaurants. This area comes alive in the early mornings with locals playing soccer along the shore and fishermen bringing in their morning catch. As the day progresses, the beach fills with a pleasant mix of visitors and residents enjoying the ocean waves and breezes.
Location Perks
Life in An Bang revolves around the beach, but the area offers plenty of practical amenities. You’ll find everything from cozy cafes and beach bars to convenient minimarts and bike rental shops. Some accommodations provide shuttle services to Old Town, making it easy to balance beach relaxation with cultural exploration.
Evening brings another charm to An Bang, as beachfront restaurants light up and serve fresh seafood caught that morning. Right on the beach, local vendors also set up temporary stalls, and lay mat on the sandy shores for their customers complemented by a lamp to providing light.
The sunset views are spectacular, and the sound of waves provides a soothing soundtrack to dinner under the stars. But overall, this area gets pretty quiet after dinner hours.
Deciding Where To Stay In Hoi An
From the historic lanes of Old Town to the serene shores of An Bang Beach, each neighborhood in Hoi An weaves its own unique story into the fabric of your Vietnamese adventure. The key is matching your travel style with the right district – whether that means immersing yourself in the cultural heart of the Ancient Quarter or finding peace among the nature of Cam Thanh.
Remember that Hoi An’s compact size means you’re never too far from its main attractions, regardless of where you choose to stay.