A Backpackers Guide to Hoi An

Hoi An, one of the most visited places in Vietnam, but the intimate and charming atmosphere is still here. The city is located about 30 km south of Danang, in the middle of Vietnam. The old town was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1999. The town is a fusion of foreign and indigenous culture, with China, Japan and then the European influential town. In addition to being one of the most beautiful places in Vietnam, this is also an ideal place to visit if you want to escape the hustle and bustle of big cities.

If you are traveling in Vietnam and are coming to Hoi An, check out this backpack travel guide for some tips on where to stay and what to do if you have a budget for backpackers. .

Where to stay?
The first thing you need to decide is where to live. And because Hoi An is a very famous place, make sure you book in advance so you can stay where you want. There are some good hostels here, but if you want to stay in Old Town, see the following:

Tribee Bana

One of the best inns where you will get very good value for your money. Dormitory staff had nothing but clean, friendly facilities and it was in a very good position in the Old Town, in a quiet street away from the noise. They also arrange free spring and dinner dishes, free beer tournaments and their free breakfasts are also delicious. You can have a lot of opportunities to meet other tourists here, as this is a social home. It is definitely one of the more popular inns in this area.



The Seaside Bungalow

If you want to live near the beach, you should check out this rustic beach house located just a short walk from Ha My beach. They offer comfortable beds, hot showers, good service, hammocks and a large garden where you sit and relax. They also arrange family dinners, burning fires on the beach and BBQ evening. It is perfect for those who want to live near the beach. Literally a minute - is it better?

What to eat?
As in the rest of Vietnam, Hoi An has some spectacular dishes. Whether you have a budget or not, you have to try some local delicacies here. Don Tiet avoids street food, as this is where you can try some of the best local dishes. Here are some dishes you can get in Hoi An with cheap prices (and it's delicious)

Quang Noodle

This is one of the typical dishes of Hoi Ans. Wheat fiber is white or yellow and made from rice flour. You can use it with vegetables, shrimp or pork, and it is covered with spices and different types of toppings. It sounds like other types of noodles in Vietnam, but what makes Quang stand out is that it uses very little broth, making it almost like a dry noodles instead of soup. Wheat fiber is also thicker. You can get this dish in most restaurants and local street food venues.



Cao Lau
Another pho that you can only get in Hoi An. The reason is because water is used to cook noodles - it comes from hidden ancient wells. Green vegetables are from Tra Que vegetable village. If there is a dish you have to try, it is this dish.



Banh Mi

Did you know that you can find one of the best cakes in Hoi An? This famous Vietnamese baguette has caused storms all over the world. It is not only really delicious and will fill you, it is also one of the cheapest dishes you can buy. A good investment, in other words. The late Anthony Bourdain said that the most delicious bread can be found in Hoi An, more specifically in Cake Phuong Phuong. Prepare for long goods though! There is a reason why this place is so popular and when you do some research, you will understand why.


If you lack money, you should just walk around the Old Town, admire the French-Chinese-Vietnamese-Japanese architecture, marvel at all the lanterns at night and take some pictures! You should also rent a really cheap bike and cycle down to the beach - or if you live there, go to the Old Town. Most of the special things in Hoi An are free things.

So pack your bags, remember to get a Vietnamese visa (your choice: Visa on arrival, e-Visa or to the nearest Vietnamese Embassy or Consulate) and to the most charming town Vietnam!

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