what is the best area to stay in hoi an?

What is the best area to stay in Hoi An? 

By Lisa Barham. October 15, 2023

The best area to stay in Hoi An is Minh An. This area encompasses the Ancient City and An Hoi, an island connected to the mainland by bridges. Most of Hoi An’s most famous and historic sites are located within this area and much of it is pedestrianised by night. Situated on the banks of the Thu Bon River, Minh An is at the heart of the historic city that was a busy trading port between the 15th and 19th centuries. This is where Hoi An’s unique fusion of indigenous and foreign cultures can be best experienced.

One of Vietnam’s most alluring destinations, Hoi An is an ancient city infused with charm that reflects influences from China, Japan and Europe. Colourful timber framed buildings sit shoulder to shoulder along narrow streets lined with coffee shops and tailors and festooned with strings of bright lanterns. Hoi An’s lanterns are an iconic sight in Vietnam, best enjoyed after nightfall when thousands light up the streets and the water of the Thu Bon River. As the country’s fashion capital, Hoi An is also famed for its historic tailoring trade and no visit here is complete without being measured for some custom-made clothes.On the map, which shows the most convenient area to stay in Hoi An, you can see a selection of some of the best located hotels.

If you are interested in where to stay in Hoi An, you may also be interested in where to stay in Ho Chi Minh, where to stay in Hanoi and where to stay in Da Nang.

Minh An, the best area to stay in Hoi An

Best for -

History / Nightlife / First Time Visitors

Free of the traffic that is so heavily present elsewhere in Vietnam, Minh An is a pleasantly peaceful place to stroll around, particularly along the river, which at night is filled with boats each lit by a colourful lantern.

There is a plethora of coffee houses to sample the distinctive and rich Vietnamese coffee and plenty of restaurants, many offering beautiful views over the river. An Hoi’s bustling night market is a must-visit for street food and souvenirs. Be sure to try Hoi An’s delicious local dish, cao lau. Some of Hoi An’s most ancient and historic buildings are located here, including the Old House on Tan Ky, an 18th century merchant’s house still filled with antiques that gives an insight into Hoi An and its inhabitants in the city’s heyday.

You’ll also find Hoi An’s most famous landmark here - the Japanese Bridge, which connects Minh An with neighbouring Cam Pho.

Hotels in Minh An

Other areas to stay in Hoi An

Cam Pho

Best for -

Culture / Foodies

Great for culture vultures who want to stay slightly out of the centre of town, Cam Pho is situated west of Minh An. Part of the Ancient City spills over into this neighbourhood and some of the streets here are also pedestrianised at certain times of day, usually from late afternoon/early evening.

There are a number of historical sites to see here including Cam Pho Temple and Cam Pho Communal House. You should not miss The Old House of Phung Hung, an historic home brimming with antique furniture and history. Nearby you will also find the Japanese Culture Gallery where you can learn about the Japanese influence in Hoi An. There are also plenty of dining options here, with many local restaurants offering cheap and delicious Vietnamese favourites.

If you’re feeling creative you can even have a go at making your very own lantern in a lantern making class at Hang Dung Lantern Workshop.

Hotels in Cam Pho

Cam Thanh

Best for - Families / Nature / Couples

Perfect for families and nature lovers, the area of Cam Thanh sits slightly east of the heart of the Ancient City, between the Thu Bon River and the South China Sea. The beautiful countryside of Cam Thanh offers a place to escape it all, with boutique hotels dotted around the picturesque village.

This safe neighbourhood is close enough to the centre of Hoi An to be a good base but far enough away from the noise and nightlife to be a perfect location for families or couples looking for a some peace and quiet. Cam Thanh is a great place to discover more about Vietnamese culture. Learn about local customs on a bamboo basket tour or pick up some new skills at a Vietnamese cooking class.

You’ll find some of the best bars, hotels and eateries along the Tran Nhan Tong Road.

Hotels in Cam Thanh

Cam An

Best for -

Beach Lovers / Relaxation

If you want to mix city culture with beach relaxation, the quiet seaside village of Cam An is the perfect place to stay. Just a 15 minute drive from the centre of Hoi An Ancient City, Cam An is situated on the South China Sea.

From the shore you can see the Cham Islands in the distance, which are worth a day visit. Cam An is centred around An Bang Beach, one of Vietnam’s finest with clean waters and powdery sand. Along this stretch of coast you will also find plenty of eating options, with gorgeous views over the sea. An Bang Beach is a popular water sports spot and a great place to try some of the activities on offer, such as paragliding, jet skiing or surfing.

For ultimate peace and quiet, walk north up the coastline to Ha My Beach, a stretch of undeveloped sandy shoreline.

Hotels in Cam An

Cam Chau

Best for - Budget Travellers / Countryside

For a quiet stay in countryside surroundings Cam Chau, between the Ancient City and Cam An is a great place to stay. There is an authentic Vietnamese feeling in this quiet neighbourhood with plenty of accommodation options, including many budget options.

The lush rice paddies and waterways here are ripe for exploring on foot, by bicycle or by kayak. This beautiful and quiet neighbourhood is located close enough to the heart of Hoi An to walk or cycle into the city. You’ll also find some good dining options here, including a number of vegetarian eateries. Sample the famous Vietnamese coffee or tasty banh mi while enjoying glorious views of some of the country’s stunning countryside.

Some of the best shops, restaurants and cafes can be found along Nguyen Duy Hieu, many of which offer great views of the river and the city itself.

Hotels in Cam Chau

Son Phong

Best for -

Fashion

Son Phong, tucked between Minh An and Cam Chau is close to the heart of the Ancient City. Hoi An is most famous for its tailoring industry and many, including some of the best, can be found in Son Phong, making this the best place to stay if you want to get some custom-made clothes during your visit to Hoi An.

Most famed for its beautiful silks, the city’s tailoring trade goes back centuries to when the town was a bustling trade post. Son Phong also includes some museums worthy of a visit, including Precious Heritage Art Gallery and Museum.

The gardens of Cong vien Trung at the corner of Tran Hung Dao and Cura Dai roads are a pleasant place to take a stroll, and there are lots of bars and restaurants to enjoy after a day of shopping, many along the beautiful river bank.

Hotels in Son Phong