15 Best Tours & Experiences In Hoi An

Hoi An is a city that pulses with activity and authenticity, making it a fantastic place to explore through guided tours and hands-on experiences. Whether you’re interested in learning how to craft a lantern, cruising on a motorbike, or uncovering ancient temples, Hoi An offers a rich mix of activities that bring you closer to local life. We love the Basket Boat Ride in the Coconut Forest [https://theabroadguide.com/hoi-an-basket-boat-ride-in-the-coconut-forest-5/] for its blend of fun and cultural charm, or the Evening Walking Food Tour, folk game and lantern boat for its delightful mix of culinary delights and local traditions. Whatever your style, these tours promise memorable moments and authentic insights into Hoi An.

Quick Overview

Our list features a variety of tours including cultural activities like lantern making and cooking classes, heritage visits such as My Son Sanctuary tours, adventure rides along the Hai Van Pass, and food explorations through market and evening street food tours. Whether you prefer a small-group experience [https://theabroadguide.com/hidden-gems-of-old-hoi-an/] or a private motorbike adventure [https://theabroadguide.com/hai-van-pass-motorbike-private-tour-with-mister-t-easy-rider/], there are options for every interest and budget. Now, let’s explore each one in detail.

1. Hoi An: Basket Boat Ride in the Coconut Forest

Starting at just $4.41 per person and rated 4.9/5 with over 3,000 reviews, this tour offers a charming peek into rural Vietnamese life. You’ll glide through a tranquil coconut forest, learning to paddle a traditional basket boat and trying activities like fishing crabs and casting nets. The guides speak fluent English, making it easy to connect. Tourists consistently praise the friendly service and beautiful scenery, with one reviewer calling it the “highlight of their time in Hoi An.” The 50-minute to 2-hour ride is perfect for a quick escape from town’s hustle, especially early in the morning to beat the crowds.
Bottom line: A fun, affordable way to learn about local traditions and enjoy serene nature, suitable for all ages.

2. Hoi An: Vietnamese Foldable Lantern Making Class

For $10 per person and a rating of 4.9/5 from over 2,600 reviews, this hands-on workshop is a must for craft lovers. You’ll learn how to make your own Vietnamese lantern using silk, bamboo, and traditional folding techniques. The instructors are friendly and knowledgeable, ensuring you leave with a unique souvenir and a new skill. Many visitors find this activity both fun and relaxing, with some describing it as the “best thing we did in Vietnam.” Your crafted lanterns can be brought home as a symbol of good luck and happiness.
Bottom line: Perfect for families, couples, or solo travelers wanting a memorable craft experience rooted in local culture.

3. Hoi An: Vietnamese Coffee Culture and Coffee Making Class

Rated 4.9/5 with over 2,300 reviews and costing $14, this 2-hour coffee workshop reveals Vietnam’s famous coffee techniques. From traditional Phin filter brewing to unique flavors like egg coffee and coconut coffee, you’ll learn to craft four different styles. The guide shares stories behind each coffee and the local cafés’ heritage. Guests often leave with new skills and a deeper appreciation for Vietnam’s vibrant coffee culture. One reviewer called it a “fun and delicious experience,” especially noting the friendly hosts.
Bottom line: A tasty and educational activity suitable for coffee enthusiasts and curious travelers interested in Vietnam’s café scene.

4. Hoi An: My Son Sanctuary Early Morning Visit with Breakfast

This $21 tour with over 1,900 reviews is designed for those early risers who want to beat the crowds. The 5.5-hour experience includes a guided tour of the UNESCO-listed My Son Sanctuary, a breakfast of noodles and coffee, and a peaceful morning trip with minimal visitors. The guide is praised for being well-informed and engaging, making the history of the Champa civilization come alive. Guests love the serene atmosphere early in the day, with some saying it’s the best way to see the site in peace.
Bottom line: Ideal for history buffs and early birds wanting a quiet, immersive experience at one of Vietnam’s most important archaeological sites.

5. From Hoi An: Market Tour, Basket Boat Ride and Cooking Class

For $17 per person, this multi-activity tour offers a true taste of rural life. It combines a lively visit to a local market, a bamboo basket boat adventure in a coconut palm forest, and a hands-on cooking class. You’ll shop for fresh ingredients, experience local bargaining, and then prepare traditional Vietnamese dishes yourself. The tour’s focus on authentic experiences makes it great for food lovers who want to combine learning and fun. Reviewers mention how they loved the mix of activities, with one calling it a “perfect introduction to Vietnamese rural life.”
Bottom line: A comprehensive, affordable option for travelers eager to combine culture, cuisine, and outdoor activity.

6. Hoi An: Coconut Basket Boat Ride in the Coconut Forest

Rated a perfect 5.0/5 from nearly 1,000 reviews and costing $5, this tour immerses you in the laid-back charm of Bay Mau Coconut Forest. You’ll enjoy activities like basket boat spinning, crab fishing, and net casting, all while being guided by friendly locals. The experience is well-organized, with pick-up and drop-off included, which makes it hassle-free. Many visitors highlight the engaging boat driver and the fun, interactive nature of the activities. One reviewer loved catching crabs and singing along with the guide.
Bottom line: A lively, budget-friendly way to enjoy rural scenery and learn traditional fishing techniques with friendly hosts.

7. Hidden Gems of Old Hoi An

Rated 5.0/5 from 959 reviews and costing $41, this small group walking tour offers an insider’s look at local family producers and lesser-known sights. You’ll explore backstreets, visit noodle factories, and learn how Vietnamese families make Cao Lau and bean sprouts. The small group size ensures personalized storytelling, and the included tastings make it a full sensory experience. Guests mention the guide’s expertise and how the tour revealed local secrets that most travelers miss.
Bottom line: For those interested in authentic food production and provincial life, this tour offers a deep dive into Hoi An’s local side.

8. Hai Van Pass Motorbike Private Tour with Mister T Easy Rider

Rated 5.0/5 from 742 reviews and priced at $58, this 8-hour private motorbike tour is perfect for adventure seekers. You’ll ride along the scenic Hai Van Pass, stop at Thanh Toan Bridge, Tam Giang Lagoon, and Mo Waterfall, with options to drive or be a pillion passenger. The guide shares insider knowledge, making the journey informative as well as exhilarating. Many describe it as “unforgettable” and praise the breathtaking views. It’s a full-day trip best suited for active travelers comfortable on a motorcycle.
Bottom line: A great choice for thrill-seekers wanting a personalized, scenic ride through Vietnam’s stunning coastline.

9. Evening Walking Food Tour, folk game and lantern boat

Rated 5.0/5 from 665 reviews and costing $39, this 4-hour evening tour offers a mix of culinary sampling, cultural games, and a magical lantern boat ride. You’ll visit carefully selected local restaurants and try dishes like Banh My, White Rose Dumplings, and Cao Lau. The small group ensures a personal experience, and the tour includes fun activities like bingo and releasing floating lanterns. Reviewers note it’s a lively, authentic way to see Hoi An’s night scene and taste its famous cuisine.
Bottom line: Ideal for night owls, food lovers, and families wanting a relaxed yet lively evening experience.

10. My Son Sanctuary Morning Tour & Early Morning with Boat Trip

Rated 5.0/5 with a price of $19, this 6-hour tour combines a guided visit to My Son, a boat trip on the Thu Bon River, and a local breakfast. The early start (around 6:30 am) means fewer travelers and cooler weather. The guide is praised for historical insights, and the boat ride provides scenic views. Guests love the blend of culture and leisure, with some calling it “worth getting up early for.”
Bottom line: Perfect for history enthusiasts and those who want a peaceful, scenic experience with fewer crowds.

11. Hoi An Eco Tour Cooking Class & Fishing

Rated 5.0/5 and costing $29, this 4.5-hour eco-friendly tour emphasizes local fishing techniques, visiting a coconut forest, and making traditional dishes in a small group. Visitors appreciate the personalized attention, learning about rural Vietnamese life while cooking and fishing. The inclusive price covers food, drinks, and activities, making it a great value. Reviewers mention the fun of fishing from a river boat and the chance to see how coconuts are grown.
Bottom line: A well-rounded, hands-on experience ideal for those interested in rural culture and cooking.

12. Early Morning My Son Sanctuary Trip w. Champa Food & Coffee

Rated 5.0/5 at $21, this early morning tour includes a private vehicle, breezy boat ride, and breakfast as you visit My Son before the crowds arrive. Bi-lingual guides share detailed insights, and many find the early start peaceful and more immersive. Guests love the combination of cultural sights and local breakfast, with some mentioning the guide’s engaging storytelling.
Bottom line: Best for culture lovers wanting a quiet, insightful experience at Vietnam’s famed Hindu temples.

13. My Son Sanctuary Luxury Trip from Hoi An

Rated 5.0/5 and at $22, this luxury option includes entry fees, lunch, and a boat ride. It’s designed for travelers who enjoy a more active and comfortable experience with walking, guided explanations, and culture. The tour also features a local home visit and traditional performance. Many reviewers note the tour’s excellent organization and engaging guide, making it ideal for travelers who want a high-quality, all-inclusive day.
Bottom line: A premium choice for those wanting a comprehensive, comfortable experience with cultural depth.

14. Hoi An Memories Show & Hoi An Impression Theme Park Ticket

Rated 4.7/5 at $9, this evening art show presents more than 500 performers recreating 400 years of Hoi An’s history. The show combines traditional and modern staging and is a lively, colorful spectacle perfect for families and culture fans alike. The ticket provides a relaxing evening option after a day of sightseeing, with an immersive experience that covers Hoi An’s cultural evolution.
Bottom line: A budget-friendly, entertaining way to spend an evening immersed in Vietnamese culture.

15. Amazing My Son Sunset Deluxe Small Group tour

Rated 5.0/5 with a price of $22, this small group tour combines a visit to My Son with a boat cruise at sunset along the Thu Bon River. It includes entrance fees, snacks, and bottled water. Guests love the personalized feel and the chance to see My Son during a peaceful evening, with the added bonus of a traditional Champa dance performance. It’s ideal for travelers who want a relaxed, scenic experience of the ancient temples.
Bottom line: Perfect for those who want a scenic, less crowded visit coupled with a tranquil river cruise.

How to Choose Your Perfect Hoi An Tour

Choosing among these options depends on your interests and travel style. For culture, consider the Hidden Gems of Old Hoi An or the Lantern Making Class. If you’re after adventure and scenic views, the Hai Van Pass Motorbike Tour is hard to beat. Budget travelers will appreciate the Basket Boat Ride or Memories Show, while those seeking luxury or in-depth exploration might prefer the Luxury Trip to My Son or the Eco Tour Cooking Class.

Pay attention to timing: early morning tours like the My Son Sanctuary visits offer a peaceful experience, while evening tours reveal a different side of the city. Booking in advance is recommended, especially for popular experiences like the Lantern Making or Motorbike Tours, to secure your spot.

Final Thoughts

From peaceful boat rides and hands-on craft classes to scenic motorbike adventures and cultural shows, Hoi An offers diverse ways to deepen your experience. If you’re a history buff, the My Son Sanctuary early morning tours or luxury trips offer rich insights. Food lovers should not miss the Evening Food Tour or market visits, while adventure seekers will enjoy the Hai Van Pass motorbike ride. With so many options, it’s worth planning ahead and booking early to secure the tours best suited to your interests and travel style. Every experience promises a chance to see Hoi An from a new perspective—so pick what excites you most and dive in.