Evening Walking Food Tour, folk game and lantern boat

Traveling through Vietnam offers endless culinary adventures, but few experiences capture the essence of a place quite like an evening food tour in Hoi An. This particular tour, rated a perfect 5.0 out of 5 by over 600 travelers, promises more than just food. It combines authentic local dishes, engaging folk activities, and a tranquil lantern-lit boat ride to give you a well-rounded peek into the soul of this historic town.

What makes this tour special? First, it’s limited to just 12 guests, offering an intimate and flexible atmosphere. Second, the menu features dishes you might never encounter without local guidance, transforming your understanding of Vietnamese cuisine. Third, the added folk games and lantern boat ride elevate the evening from a simple food walk to a cultural experience.

A possible downside? The tour includes a ticket for the Old Town, which isn’t included in the base price, so you’ll need to purchase that separately. If you’re a vegetarian or have special dietary requests, you’ll want to advise in advance, as most food options are traditional Vietnamese fare. This tour is best suited for food lovers, curious travelers eager to learn about local customs, and those who enjoy a lively, social atmosphere with small groups for personal attention.

Key Points

• Small group setting enhances personalized attention and interaction.
• Authentic local dishes like Cao Lau, White Rose Dumplings, and Banh Mi are featured.
• Lantern boat ride offers a serene, picturesque view of Hoi An at night.
• Folk folk games add a fun, cultural twist to the evening.
• Ample restaurant recommendations help you explore more of Hoi An beyond the tour.
• Cost-effective experience for just $39 per person, offering a substantial culinary and cultural package.

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

Starting Point: What’s the Meeting Like?

The tour kicks off at White Rose Restaurant, a well-known local spot, at 4:30 pm. From the get-go, you’ll notice that the group size is intentionally kept small (max 12), ensuring you get plenty of interaction with the guide and fellow travelers. The guide, like Nancy or Quin, is praised for her friendliness, knowledge, and engaging manner—making even the most novice food lover feel at home.

The First Stop: Hoi An Ancient Town

Your journey begins with a stroll through Hoi An’s UNESCO-listed Old Town. Here, the focus is on tasting iconic dishes like Banh Mi, White Rose Dumplings, and Cao Lau Noodles, which are staples of the local cuisine. Multiple reviews echo the high quality of these dishes, with visitors mentioning that everything was “amazing” and “the best food they’ve had in Vietnam.”

Expect to sample a range of flavors, from savory to slightly sweet, often paired with traditional Vietnamese coffee. You might also encounter unusual options like balut eggs or Trung Vit Lon (fertilized duck eggs), which some travelers found intriguing. For those with dietary restrictions, vegetarian options are available—just be sure to specify when booking.

Folk Games: A Cultural Highlight

Midway through the tour, you’ll participate in Vietnamese folk activities such as Bingo or Dap Nieu (breaking pot game). Reviewers like Victoria_F and Jessica_W highlight how much fun these traditional games are, adding an authentic, playful aspect to the evening. These moments provide a glimpse into local customs and are a perfect way to loosen up after tasting numerous dishes.

The River and Lantern Boat Ride

One of the biggest highlights? A 15-minute boat trip on the Thu Bon River, where you’ll launch floating lanterns into the water. The sight of lanterns drifting on the river, illuminated by the glow of the town’s historic rooftops, creates a picture-perfect moment. Reviewers consistently mention how beautiful and peaceful the boat ride is, often describing it as a “serene” and “magical” way to conclude the evening.

Additional Recommendations and Tips

The tour includes a generous amount of food, and many travelers report leaving full—so consider skipping lunch beforehand. The tour also offers numerous restaurant recommendations for your remaining time in Hoi An, which many reviewers say is invaluable for exploring local cuisine further.

Pricing and Value

At $39 per person, this experience offers a fantastic balance of value and depth. You get a guided walk through iconic and off-the-beaten-path eateries, cultural activities, a boat ride, and a lantern, all within four hours. The price does not include the Old Town entrance ticket, which is a necessary expense if you plan to explore independently afterward. This ticket is a one-time purchase that you can reuse during your stay.

Given the high praise and the detailed attention from guides, many consider this tour a great bargain, especially considering the quality of food and authentic experiences packed into a short time frame.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Authenticity and Local Insight

Reviewers consistently mention how guides like Nancy and Quin bring the food to life with stories about its origins and cultural significance. For instance, Nancy’s knowledge on the history of Cao Lau or the story behind White Rose Dumplings adds a layer of understanding that elevates the tasting experience from mere eating to cultural appreciation.

Unique, Fun Activities

The folk games, such as the Vietnamese bingo, don’t just entertain—they connect you with the local customs and make the evening memorable. The lantern boat ride is often described as the highlight, thanks to the tranquil beauty of floating lanterns casting a warm glow on the river.

Gastronomic Diversity

From street food classics to hidden local specialties, the tour covers a broad range of Hoi An’s culinary landscape. Reviewers like Victoria_F and Hilary_B appreciate how every stop introduces them to dishes they wouldn’t have found on their own, making it an eye-opening experience for food lovers.

Transparency and Practicality

The tour’s inclusion of water, a guide, and the lantern boat makes it feel well-organized and comprehensive. Plus, the small group size means you won’t feel lost in a crowd and can ask questions freely.

Final Thoughts: Who Should Book This?

This tour is perfect for foodies eager to taste authentic Vietnamese dishes in a lively, intimate setting. It’s equally suited for travelers interested in learning about local customs through folk games and enjoying scenic river views. If you’re traveling with family or friends who appreciate a mix of food, culture, and fun, this experience will hit the mark.

While it’s a fantastic value at $39, keep in mind the necessity of purchasing an Old Town ticket separately. It’s a well-balanced outing that combines culinary discovery with cultural enrichment, offering a memorable evening in Hoi An.

If you’re after a relaxed, engaging, and authentic way to spend an evening, this tour delivers on all fronts with authentic food, friendly guides, and beautiful scenery—making it a highlight of any trip to Hoi An.

FAQ: Your Practical Questions Answered

Is this tour suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, vegetarian options are available, but it’s best to specify your dietary requirements when booking.

What is the meeting point?
The tour starts at White Rose Restaurant, 533 Hai Bà Trưng, at 4:30 pm.

How long does the tour last?
It runs for approximately 4 hours, giving you plenty of time to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed.

Do I need to buy a ticket for Hoi An’s Old Town separately?
Yes, the tour does not include the ticket, which costs 120,000 VND per person. You can reuse this ticket during your stay.

What’s included in the price?
The tour fee covers an English-speaking guide, all food and drinks as listed, a bottle of water, a 15-minute boat ride, a floating lantern each, and folk games.

Is transportation provided?
No, you meet at the designated spot and walk between stops, which are all within Hoi An’s Old Town.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance. Refunds are processed fully if canceled in time.

Are there any extra charges I should know about?
Yes, an extra fee of 150,000 VND per person applies on certain public holidays, like April 30/May 1 and September 2, 2025.

What should I wear?
Comfortable walking shoes and light clothing are recommended. Evening temperatures are usually pleasant, but bring an umbrella or raincoat if needed.

Would this tour suit families or solo travelers?
Absolutely. Its small group setting, engaging activities, and friendly guides make it ideal for solo adventurers or families looking for a relaxed, fun experience.

Embarking on this evening walking food tour in Hoi An promises an authentic taste of Vietnam’s culinary and cultural treasures. Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or a curious traveler, it’s an experience that will leave you full, happy, and with a deeper understanding of the city’s vibrant traditions.