How to Spend 3 days in Hoi An

Tipped to be one of Vietnam's most popular beach holiday destinations, Hoi An is a little piece of paradise for all beach lovers heading to the Asian nation. Blessed with sunny skies and idyllic weather conditions for most of the year, this water sports Mecca for the masses and offers holidaymakers an array of engaging distractions. From splashing around on its stunning beaches to wining and dining in local restaurants, here's how to spend 3 glorious days in Hoi An.

1. Secure a Strategic Base

Those who are spending only 3 days in Hoi An must first and foremost secure a strategically located rest. Whether it's the Anantara Hoi An Resort or any other establishment, your base for the holiday should afford easy access to the best things to do in Hoi An. Since the time available on vacation is limited, it is crucial not to waste time travelling to and from attractions and activity bases by staying in a convenient location. Unlike Ho Chi Minh City and other major cities in Vietnam, Hoi An's public transport network does not cover every inch of the beach hotspot so a well-situated rest will make travelling around Hoi An a more efficient experience.

2. Marvel at the Japanese Covered Bridge

As one of the biggest landmarks in Hoi An, the Japanese Covered Bridge is a must-visit highlight during your 3-day stay in the area. The breathtaking architecture of this ancient overpass is an odd mixture of both Japanese and French architectural styles. Occupying the heart of Hoi An's Old Town, it is a great heritage site to marvel at the ingenuity of ancient builders.

3. Dig into Local Delicacies

Make every mealtime in your 3-day stay an adventure by digging into some of the Vietnamese cuisine's top dishes. Hoi An is one of the best places to grab a Banh Mi made the traditional way as vendors such as Banh Mi Phuong serve up delicious variations of this world-famous sandwich. The country's coffee culture can also be explored during a trip to Hoi An as nearly every cafe serves Ca Phe Sua Dua, Vietnam's signature condensed milk infused coffee beverage. Egg coffee is another speciality in Hoi An that's also fantastic for those who would rather skip breakfast.

4. Discover the Tra Que Vegetable Village and Its Paddy Fields

Encircled by paddy fields, Hoi An is also home to its fair share of organic farms but none are worth the trip over as the Tra Que Vegetable Village. In addition to exploring the farm, tourists can also sign up for a tour of the venue, which also includes demonstrations of its farming practices. Those who prefer to bike around the 40-ha farmland are also welcome to do so.

5. Sign Up for a Cruise

One of the most romantic things to do during an evening in Hoi An is meandering down the Thu Bon River, which cuts across the beach capital.

6. Shop till You Drop

Local markets in Hoi An are not only perfect for picking up souvenirs and keepsakes but also for purchasing consumer items including clothing, accessories and footwear. Head to the streets of Old Town to find the best deals in town and put your haggling skills to the test.

7. Hit the Beach

As the main reason why tourists head to Hoi An in the first place, a vast majority of your getaway in the coastal city should be spent on its pristine beaches where one can go snorkelling, scuba diving, or sign up for a jet ski ride.