Hoi An Old Town Entrance Ticket +Boat Lantern Release Ticket

Travelers often rave about Hoi An’s enchanting old town, with its lantern-lit streets, historic architecture, and peaceful vibe. This particular tour combines the essentials — access to key sights and a memorable boat lantern release — into one affordable package. It’s a good way to cover the highlights without breaking the bank, especially if you want a mix of sightseeing and a touch of local tradition.

What makes this experience worth considering? First, you get access to five of the 25 sightseeing spots with just one ticket, making it convenient and budget-friendly. Second, the boat ride along the Hoai River offers a serene way to view the city at night, illuminated by floating lanterns. Lastly, the opportunity to release a flower lantern and be part of an authentic local ritual adds a special, memorable element.

However, one consideration is that the guided sightseeing spots close at nightfall, meaning if you arrive late in the afternoon, you might miss some daytime attractions. This tour is best suited for travelers who want a quick but immersive evening experience in Hoi An, especially those craving beautiful lantern views and a taste of local culture.

Key Points

• Includes access to 5 of 25 sightseeing spots in Hoi An Old Town
• Enjoy a peaceful 20-minute boat lantern release along the Hoai River
• Affordable at $16 per person, offering good value for combined experiences
• Opt for evening visits as many sights close at night
• Book in advance for instant confirmation and flexible cancellation policies
• Ideal for travelers seeking authentic scenic moments and cultural charm

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

What Does the Tour Include?

This tour covers the entrance to Hoi An Old Town, allowing access to five key sites, such as the Japanese Covered Bridge, Old Assembly Halls, museums, and temples. The specific spots you visit depend on your pace and interests, but the ticket grants entry to some of the most photogenic and historically significant attractions.

The highlight is the boat lantern release on the Hoai River. For about 20 minutes, you’ll glide gently along the river, watching as hundreds of glowing lanterns drift by. This activity is more than just picturesque; it’s a cherished Vietnamese tradition, symbolizing good luck and wishes for loved ones. Reviewers have described this moment as “so nice to leave the candles lit in the river,” adding a peaceful, almost meditative quality to your evening.

How the Itinerary Unfolds

Your day begins at the designated meeting point at 153 Tran Phu Street, where you’ll exchange your voucher for a physical ticket. Opening hours are flexible, running from 8 am to 9 pm daily, so you can plan your visit at your convenience.

Once inside, you’re free to explore the designated sights on foot. The lantern streets are the real star here — beautifully lit, lively, and perfect for wandering. Many visitors mention the Japanese Covered Bridge and local temples as must-sees, but keep in mind that attractions close at nightfall, so plan accordingly.

The boat lantern release takes place later in the evening, providing a tranquil backdrop to the bustling streets. The tour includes one lantern flower to release, adding a personal touch to this cultural ritual. Plus, you’ll receive a soft or water drink to cool off or toast your experience.

Authenticity and Value

This combo tour offers authentic glimpses of local life — from the historic architecture to the nightly lantern festival. It’s especially attractive because it bundles key experiences into a single, manageable package at a reasonable price.

Travelers have noted that tickets for the old town can be bought directly at nearby stalls for about 120,000 VND, sometimes making this tour seem a bit pricier. But what you’re paying for here is the convenience, guided insight, and the special lantern release experience, which many find priceless.

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Insights from Past Travelers

One reviewer, Corinne, felt that buying tickets independently for both the old town and lantern tour would be cheaper, highlighting the importance of comparing prices. Conversely, others like Melanie found the experience “beautiful” and mention that the boat with lanterns is a highlight. She notes, however, that sights close at nightfall, so if you’re visiting during the day to avoid the heat, a separate boat-only ticket might suffice.

A common thread among reviews is the guides’ knowledge and the stunning views — especially during the boat ride — making this experience more memorable than just a simple ticket purchase.

What to Expect During Your Visit

Visiting the Sightseeing Spots

Once inside Hoi An Old Town, you’ll find picturesque streets lined with lanterns, ancient shop houses, and historic temples. The Japanese Covered Bridge, for instance, is a classic shot, especially at sunset or under lantern light. The Old Assembly Hall and museums add depth to your understanding of the town’s rich history, although they close early — usually before nightfall — so plan your timing accordingly.

The Lantern Boat Ride

The 20-minute boat ride on the Hoai River is a serene, visually stunning part of the tour. You’ll be gently carried along, surrounded by floating lanterns and the glow of the evening cityscape. Many reviews emphasize how leaving the lanterns lit in the river creates a peaceful, almost magical atmosphere. You’re encouraged to make a wish and release your flower lantern, which adds a personal and cultural dimension to the activity.

Practical Tips

• Arrive early if you want to see daytime sights before they close.
• Remember that many sights close at nightfall, so plan to enjoy the lantern and river experience later in the day.
• The group size can vary, but the experience tends to be intimate enough for meaningful moments.
• Bring your camera — the lighting during the lantern release is perfect for photos.
• The cost of the tour includes the entrance ticket, boat ride, lantern flower, and a soft drink, making it a convenient all-in-one option.

Authentic Experiences and Reviewer Insights

Many visitors mention that guides are knowledgeable, often sharing stories and cultural insights as they lead you through the sights. The guided element enhances the experience, especially for those unfamiliar with the town’s history.

One reviewer pointed out that tickets for the old town are available next door for less, but they still appreciated the ease and structure of this organized tour. The inclusion of the lantern release and soft drink adds a nice touch, especially after a day of sightseeing.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour for You?

This combined ticket and lantern release experience offers a well-rounded, enjoyable way to see Hoi An at night. If you’re after a manageable, cost-effective way to explore the highlights and participate in a meaningful cultural activity, this tour ticks the boxes. It’s particularly suited for travelers who:

• Want to combine sightseeing with a memorable cultural ritual
• Are visiting in the evening and want to avoid attractions closing early
• Appreciate authentic scenic moments and beautiful night views
• Prefer a package that includes guidance, convenience, and a special activity

However, if your focus is purely on historic sights during the day or you’re seeking a more flexible, independent experience, you might find the price slightly higher than buying tickets locally.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I buy tickets for the old town site on the same day?
Yes, tickets are available nearby, and some reviews mention that they cost less directly at the ticket stalls, around 120,000 VND.

Is the boat lantern release included in the ticket price?
Yes, the 20-minute boat ride along the Hoai River, including the lantern release and flower, is part of the package.

What does the tour include besides the boat?
It includes access to five of the 25 sightseeing spots in Hoi An Old Town, a lantern flower for releasing, and a soft or water drink.

Are there options for evening visits?
Definitely. The tour is designed for evening enjoyment, especially since many sights close at nightfall, making this time ideal for the lantern experience.

How long does the entire experience last?
The main elements—exploring the sights and the boat lantern release—can be completed in a few hours, typically fitting comfortably into a late afternoon or evening schedule.

Is this experience suitable for families?
While the info doesn’t specify age restrictions, the gentle boat ride and cultural activities make it suitable for families, especially those interested in cultural traditions.

Are guides knowledgeable?
Based on reviews, guides are often praised for their knowledge, adding context and stories that enrich the visit.

What should I bring?
A camera, comfortable walking shoes, and some cash in case you want to buy souvenirs or additional drinks.

For those seeking a warm, authentic experience combining sightseeing with cultural rituals, this tour offers significant value for a modest price. The opportunity to glide along the river, release a lantern, and see parts of Hoi An lit up at night makes for a memorable evening. The guides’ insights and the stunning visuals add depth to the experience.

It’s especially suitable if you’re in Hoi An for a short stay and want a convenient, organized way to enjoy its most enchanting scenes without fuss. The combination of sights, culture, and a peaceful boat ride is a recipe for a truly special evening in Vietnam.

To sum it up, this tour strikes a good balance of affordability, authenticity, and scenic beauty—perfect for travelers wanting a snapshot of Hoi An’s magic, especially after the crowds have gone home.

You can check availability for your dates here: