When is the Best Time to Visit Hoi An?
Visit between February and April for mild weather and minimal rainfall. Plan your trip to central Vietnam according to the weather with this helpful guide.
Transportation Tips
A. Getting to Vietnam
Vietnam has 4 major international airports. One is in Da Nang, about a 45-minute drive from Hoi An. Vietnam Airlines is the most reliable operator for international flights to Da Nang International Airport.
B. How to get to Hoi An
From the airport in Da Nang, catch a taxi or use a ride-sharing app like Grab or Xanh SM to get to Hoi An. There are also lots of shuttles and buses that run directly from the airport to Hoi An. Either way, the ride takes less than an hour.
C. How to get around in Hoi An
Hoi An is a relatively small and compact city, so exploring on foot or renting a bicycle to pedal around are feasible options. Taxis or ride-sharing apps conveniently get around quickly or cover larger distances.
Before You Go: Visa, Currency, Timezone, Voltage, ATMs, Credit Cards, Internet, SIM Cards, Tips
- Visa: Check visa requirements based on your nationality. Find out more about getting a Vietnam Visa before you visit Hoi An.
- Timezone: Vietnam is in the Indochina Time Zone (ICT), UTC+7.
- Voltage: The standard voltage is 220V, and the outlets usually accept three different plugs: A, C, and F. If you are from Europe, Japan, or the Americas, your plugs will work fine. Otherwise, you’ll need an adapter. Note that many Vietnamese outlets do not have a third hole for grounding, and so can only accept two-pronged plugs.
- Internet: Most hotels, cafes, and even restaurants in Hoi An offer free Wi-Fi; Wi-Fi plans are so cheap in Vietnam that almost all businesses have one. But it’s easy, inexpensive, and well worth buying a local SIM card with a data package at the airport upon arrival.
- SIM Cards: You can easily purchase SIM cards for data and calls at the airport or local stores. Note that you’ll need to provide your passport to get a SIM. Viettel, Mobifone, and VinaPhone are the best mobile networks for Hoi An and in most parts of Vietnam.
- Currency: Vietnam uses the Vietnamese Dong (VND). VND only comes in bills (no coins), and 1 USD equals about 24,000 VND (commonly abbreviated as 24k). Some shops catering to tourists may accept USD, but most only take VND.
- Credit Cards: Visa and MasterCard are commonly accepted at large businesses like hotels, indoor restaurants, or upscale shopping venues, but smaller enterprises usually only take cash.
- ATMs: Hoi An has many ATMs, most of which accept foreign cards. Make sure to notify your bank before you travel to Vietnam to avoid blocked ATM transactions.
- Tipping: Vietnam is not a tipping culture, so a tip is not expected. A tip is a good way to bring a smile to someone’s face, though. Note that cab drivers and tour guides often rely on some tipping, so it’s a good idea to tip them.
Understanding Culture & Customs In Hoi An
Hoi An is renowned for its rich cultural heritage and a blend of influences from China, Japan, and Europe, seen in its architecture, traditions, and customs. When visiting Hoi An, it’s important to respect local customs and traditions, such as covering your shoulders in temples, or removing your shoes before entering certain buildings and bargaining with a smile and respect for the seller.
It’s also important to be mindful of crowds in Hoi An’s main tourist areas, particularly during peak travel seasons. Visitors should be aware of their surroundings and respectful of other travelers while exploring the city’s popular attractions.
