Destination - Hoi An, Vietnam

Hoi An, Vietnam, is a town that feels like a storybook come to life, with its lantern-lit streets, centuries-old architecture, and the gentle hum of the Thu Bon River. While many visitors are drawn to its famous landmarks, there’s an entirely different side to Hoi An that awaits those who venture beyond the usual tourist trail. If you’re craving an experience that’s rich in culture, creativity, and unexpected delights, then let’s take a journey through some of Hoi An’s most unusual and secret experiences.

It’s all about the food!

Start by immersing yourself in a Secret Gourmet Dinner—an exclusive event held in hidden locations where talented chefs create bespoke menus from fresh, locally sourced ingredients. The mystery of the setting, combined with an exquisite culinary journey, makes this an unforgettable way to taste Vietnam’s flavors in a unique and intimate environment.

For those who enjoy a little mystery with their drinks, the Secret Cocktail Experience is a must. This exclusive event takes you through four hidden bars, where mixologists craft innovative cocktails using local ingredients. It’s a fascinating way to experience Hoi An’s nightlife, discovering places you might never stumble upon on your own.

Speaking of daily life, no trip to Vietnam is complete without delving into its coffee culture. A Vietnamese coffee-making course will introduce you to the art of crafting traditional brews like egg coffee, salt coffee, and the ever-popular ca phe sua da. By the end of the experience, you’ll not only have a newfound appreciation for Vietnam’s coffee heritage but also the skills to make a perfect cup yourself.

Once you’ve satisfied your appetite, take a slow and scenic rickshaw ride through Hoi An’s winding streets. This eco-friendly journey gives you time to admire the town’s iconic yellow buildings, ancient shophouses, and colonial-era structures, all while absorbing the relaxed rhythm of daily life.

Get crafty

Of course, no visit to Hoi An is complete without lanterns, and Lady Mai’s Lantern-Making Workshop offers the perfect opportunity to craft your own. Using traditional techniques, you’ll create a beautiful handmade lantern to take home—a glowing reminder of your time in this enchanting town.

If you’re feeling artistic, unleash your creativity at Lang Cui Lu, also known as Driftwood Village. Here, you can participate in artisan workshops, learning traditional Vietnamese crafts such as pottery and painting. Another artistic experience awaits at Bao Huynh’s watercolor classes, where the celebrated local artist teaches you how to capture Hoi An’s beauty on paper. Whether you’re a novice or a seasoned painter, his guidance will inspire you to see the town through an entirely new lens.

Walk back in time

For history lovers, a Guru Walk will reveal Hoi An’s hidden past, guiding you through ancient houses, pagodas, and eerie alleys filled with fascinating stories of spirits, kidnapped brides, and forgotten legends. If you’re craving a culinary experience steeped in history, visit the house of Quan Thang to try Hoi An’s famous White Rose dumplings. This delicate dish is made by a family who guards its centuries-old recipe, ensuring that each bite is steeped in authenticity.

Venture outside the town for a day trip to My Son Sanctuary, a UNESCO-listed site featuring ancient Hindu temples dating back to the 4th century. The journey takes you through stunning landscapes, and you can even explore an 11th-century Cham tower before crossing the Thu Bon River to reach the holy land. If history isn’t enough, the breathtaking scenery and rich culture make this adventure well worth the trip.

Natural and man-made wonders

For nature lovers, a motorbike ride through the countryside reveals a hidden waterfall, where you can swim in crystal-clear waters and visit a traditional bronze-casting village. A trek through Bach Ma National Park offers yet another opportunity to connect with nature, leading you through lush forests, cascading waterfalls, and the stunning Hải Vọng Đài summit, where you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of Vietnam’s central highlands.

Back in town, the Precious Heritage Museum and Art Gallery is a cultural gem not to be missed. Here, you’ll find an incredible collection of portraits, costumes, and heirlooms documenting Vietnam’s ethnic tribes. The free museum, housed in a 19th-century French building, is both a celebration of diversity and a call to preserve these rich traditions.

For a more active experience, kayak along the peaceful Thu Bon River or cycle through Cam Kim Island’s tranquil villages. This flat, scenic terrain makes biking a joy, whether you’re exploring lush rice fields or visiting the woodcarvers of Kim Bong Village. If you’re an early riser, a trip to Tam Tien Fish Market provides a fascinating glimpse into the daily lives of local fishermen, as they bring in the day’s catch in a vibrant, fast-paced spectacle.

If you’re drawn to the sea, the Cham Islands offer an overnight escape where you can snorkel, stand-up paddleboard, and immerse yourself in the laid-back rhythms of island life. Alternatively, a visit to An Bang Beach provides a serene spot to relax, with soft white sands, gentle waves, and charming beachside cafes serving up fresh seafood and tropical cocktails.

For something truly unique, sip on Vietnamese rice wine at Poison Cafe, where infusions of medicinal herbs and exotic ingredients create an intriguing drinking experience. Then, wind down at Reaching Out Tea House, a beautifully tranquil space run by hearing-impaired staff, where silent communication enhances the serenity of your tea-drinking ritual.

To round out your experience, attend a performance at the Hội An Lune Center, where groundbreaking theatrical productions blend bamboo acrobatics, live folk music, and mesmerizing storytelling. This immersive show offers a captivating insight into Vietnam’s artistic traditions, leaving you spellbound by its beauty.

Hoi An’s magic extends far beyond its lantern-lit streets and bustling markets. Whether you’re delving into its hidden history, creating something with your own hands, or savoring flavors in secret locations, the town rewards those who seek out the unexpected. Let yourself be enchanted by Hoi An’s secrets, and you’ll leave with memories as luminous as its legendary lanterns.