Hoi An is a great for experiencing Vietnamese cuisine, history, and charm.
Situated on Vietnam’s central coast, it’s a well-preserved Ancient Town.
What used to be a port city is now a mix of French colonial buildings and Chinese architecture that cut through canals with the iconic Japanese Covered Bridge and its pagoda of course.
But where to stay in Hoi An completely depends on your travel style and interests?
Is it best to base yourself in the Old Town near the historical sites, or by the beach and countryside? Do you want to stay near the night market and nightlife, or are you more concerned with finding the cheapest place to stay in Hoi An?
In this guide, we’ll cover where to stay in Hoi An by top attractions, interests, and budget, so you don’t have to do the guesswork.
Read on to learn more about our top 5 areas in Hoi An.
Looking for a specific place to stay? These are our best recommendations for accommodations in Hoi An.
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Best Hotel in Hoi An: Lantana Hoi An Boutique Hotel & Spa
This chic four-star hotel is located in An Hoi in the centre of the city. Conveniently situated near Old Town and the city’s major attractions, this hotel is close to restaurants, bars, museums, and art galleries.
Each room has air conditioning, cable/satellite channels as well as a comfortable sitting area.
Best Hotel in Hoi An for Couples: East West Villa
This is a great hotel for couples and anyone looking for a tranquil escape from the city, as it’s a bit out of the city located close to the beaches.
The villa offers a beautiful outdoor pool and green gardens. Bicycles are available for rent at no charge. The staff will treat you like family and serves a personalized breakfast on your balcony each morning.
This place pays close attention to detail and offers guests a relaxing escape from the hustle and bustle.
Best Airbnb in Hoi an: Serviced Studio with 1 bedroom
Relax as you enjoy stunning views of the gorgeous gardens and lush landscaping from your private balcony. This one-bedroom apartment features a comfortable large bed. High-tech amenities include a flat-screen TV with cable channels, high-speed wireless Internet, safe and full stocked minibar. It also boasts 2 bathrooms with a rain shower, a bathtub and a kitchenette area for the convenience of guests.
Best Hostel in Hoi An: Tribee Ede
This hostel is located at the heart of Hoi An’s Cam Pho district. It’s situated within walking distance of the city’s major tourist attractions as well as restaurants, bars, and shops.
It offers private rooms and dorm-style accommodations alike. Boasting a kitchen, common room, free pool, and daily breakfast, this is the best hostel in Hoi An.
Old Town
Old Town is the cultural and historic heart of Hoi An. It is made up of charming alleys and roads that wind between colourful buildings and traditional shophouses.
Cam Pho
Cam Pho is a central Hoi An neighbourhood that surrounds the Old Town to the west and north. This neighbourhood is located within walking distance of the city’s top tourist attractions and conveniently located to explore both the town and surrounding countryside.
An Hoi
Across the river from the historic centre of Hoi An is the vivacious and lively neighbourhood of An Hoi. An island in the Thu Bon River, An Hoi where you’ll find a variety of charming buildings, colourful houses, and stunning cultural attractions.
Cam Chau
Cam Chau is a beautiful and quiet neighbourhood located to the east of the city centre. Lying between the Old Town and the beach, this neighbourhood is well positioned for exploring all the very best of Hoi An.
Cam Thanh
Cam Thanh is a delightful village located east of Hoi An along the river. Situated between the beach and the city, this neighbourhood is well connected to the rest of Hoi An, yet home to a number of rice paddies, streams, rivers and other picturesque landscapes.
Hoi An is a small city located south of Da Nang on Vietnam’s central coast.
It is one of the most charming and atmospheric towns in Vietnam, home to a great selection of cultural and historic attractions.
There is plenty of things to plan to do in Hoi An for intrepid travellers, from dining on amazing Vietnamese cuisine to exploring the narrow streets and winding lanes in the old town.
Hoi An is home to approximately 120,000 people, yet it retains all of its small-town appeals. It is divided into nine distinct districts, which spans 60 square kilometres inland from the shores of the South China Sea.
To experience the best of Hoi An, we recommend that you visit at least three or four of the city’s neighbourhoods, depending on the goals of your visit.
To help you plan your time in Hoi An, this guide will break down the “must-see” and top attractions by interest and budget.
At the heart of Hoi An is the Old or Ancient Town. Here you will find Hoi An’s most famous and iconic attractions, including the Japanese Covered Bridge, colourful shophouses, and streets adorned with vibrant and glowing lanterns.
To the north and west of Old Town is the Cam Pho district. This downtown neighbourhood is well connected to all of Hoi An’s top attractions and where you’ll find the best options for budget hostels.
Head south of Old Town and you’ll cross to the island of An Hoi. Home to the famous Night Market, this neighbourhood is also where you’ll find Hoi An’s liveliest nightlife.
As you travel east to the shores of the South China Sea, you’ll pass through the charming neighbourhoods of Cam Chau and Cam Thanh. These two neighbourhoods are perfectly situated for exploring the city as well as the lush countryside.
Still not sure where to stay in Hoi An? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered.
5 Best Neighborhoods to Stay in Hoi An
Hoi An is a small city. The downtown neighbourhoods of Cam Pho, Old Town and An Hoi can easily be covered on foot. Should you choose to stay in Cam Thanh or Cam Chau, we recommend you rent a bike or moped to get around the different neighbourhoods with relative ease.
Some neighbourhoods of Hoi An are better suited than others, depending on your goals for visiting Hoi An. Whether you’re looking to party all night backpacking Hoi An style, or spend your days in nature with the family, there’s a neighbourhood in Hoi An that’s perfect for you.
Here are the best neighbourhoods in Hoi An broken down by interest for your stay.
1. Old Town Hoi An – Where to Stay in Hoi An for First Visits
Old Town is the cultural and historic heart of Hoi An. It is made up of charming alleys and roads that wind between colourful buildings and traditional shophouses.
Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1999, the Ancient Town of Hoi An is where you’ll find a range of well-preserved houses and buildings that reflect a variety of architectural styles.
Old Town Hoi An is the ideal base for first-time visitors to the city. The majority of Hoi An’s top tourist attractions and restaurants are located in this neighbourhood, including the Japanese Covered Bridge, which makes it a snap for a short itinerary in Hoi An.
Things to See and Do in Old Town
- Explore Old Town and see the old Chinese style shophouses that line the winding lanes and alleys.
- See the iconic Japanese Covered Bridge, which marks the entrance to Old Town, which was first built in 1593.
- Marvel at the stunning architecture and Southeast Asian style décor at the Quang Trieu Assembly Hall.
- Browse works of art by local artists at the small Ha Ha – Art In Everything gallery.
- See the sunning and intricate animals statues that adorn the Fukian Assembly Hall, which dates back to 1697.
- Visit Phung Hung Ancient House, one of the most famous architectural buildings in the city that blends Japanese, Chinese, and Vietnamese architectural styles.
- Lose yourself in the peaceful surroundings of the yellow Hoi Quan Hai Nam assembly hall.
- Take a stroll through the Old Town at night when it’s illuminated with colourful lanterns that hang above the streets.
- Enjoy a delicious and traditional Vietnamese Banh Mi sandwich at Banh Mi Phong, one of the best street food stands in the city.
Best Hotel in Old Town: Vinh Hung Heritage
This hotel is located in the centre of Hoi An. A short walk to the old town centre, it is close to shops, restaurants, and cultural and historical attractions.
Each room comes equipped with a refrigerator, coffee machine and mini bar. It boasts an on-site restaurant and bar as well as a swimming pool and sauna.
Best Airbnb in Old Town: Serviced Studio with 1 bedroom
Relax as you enjoy stunning views of the gorgeous gardens and lush landscaping from your private balcony. This one-bedroom apartment features a comfortable large bed. High-tech amenities include a flat-screen TV with cable channels, high-speed wireless Internet, safe and full stocked minibar. It also boasts 2 bathrooms with a rain shower, a bathtub and a kitchenette area for the convenience of guests.
Best Hostel in Old Town: Tribee Bana
Of the handful of hostels located inside Hoi An, Old Town Tribee Bana is the best hostel around. Just a stone’s throw from the city’s top attractions, this hostel is conveniently located near restaurants, bars and shops.
It has deluxe private and dorm-style accommodations, and each bed comes with its own reading light. This hostel also offers free and unlimited breakfast, as well as a variety of Vietnamese treats, drinks and more.
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View on Osprey View on REI2. Cam Pho – Where to Stay in Hoi An on a Budget
Cam Pho is a central Hoi An neighbourhood that surrounds the Old Town to the west and north. This neighbourhood is located within walking distance of the city’s top tourist attractions and conveniently located to explore both the town and surrounding countryside.
Cam Pho is also the best base for travellers exploring Vietnam on a budget. This is where you’ll find a wide range of accommodations styles and options. From value hostels to boutique hotels, this neighbourhood has something for every budget.
Enjoy all the perks of downtown without the hefty price tag by staying in Cam Pho.
Things to See and Do in Cam Pho
- Visit one of Hoi An’s famous tailors and have a completely new wardrobe custom-made and fit for you.
- See the sky light up in hues of orange, red and pink as you watch the sunset over the river.
- Rent bikes and cruise along the river and through the country, where you’ll see a number of indigenous animals including water buffalos.
- Sample cao lau, a local delicacy at Thanh Cao Lau, one of the best kitchens in the city.
- Com Ga Huong street food specializes in one thing and one thing only: com ga, rice cooked in chicken stock and turmeric, mixed with shredded chicken, crushed onion, and Vietnamese spices.
- Take a free walking tour of Hoi An and immerse yourself in the culture and history of this charming Vietnamese city.
Best Hotel in Cam PhoPho: Flamingo Villa Hoi An
The Flamingo Villa Hoi An is one of the best value hotels in the city. It is a short walk to Old Town, An Hoi and the river, and is surrounded by restaurants, bars and cafes.
This hotel boasts comfortable beds and modern rooms that come with all the essentials for a wonderful stay.
Best Airbnb in Cam Pho: Private Deluxe Room with Balcony
Little Boss Homestay is brand new, they opened their doors in January of 2019. They offer accommodation with free WiFi and access to a garden with a terrace. All units include a private bathroom and have air conditioning, a flat-screen TV and a fridge. They speak English, French, and Vietnamese. Located in the center, all popular tourist points are nearby, like the Japanese Bridge and Nguyen Hoang Night Market. Hoi An Ancient Town is only 5 minutes away on foot.
Best Hostel in Cam Pho: Tribee Ede
This hostel is located at the heart of Hoi An’s Cam Pho district. It is situated within walking distance of the city’s major tourist attractions as well as restaurants, bars and shops.
It offers private rooms and dorm-style accommodations, boasting a kitchen, common room, free pool, and daily breakfast; there’s no better hostel in Hoi An.
3. An Hoi – Where to Stay in Hoi An for Nightlife
Across the river from the historic centre of Hoi An is the vivacious and lively neighbourhood of An Hoi. An island in the Thu Bon River, An Hoi where you’ll find a variety of charming buildings, colourful houses, and stunning cultural attractions.
An Hoi is also where you’ll find the best nightlife in Hoi An. A quaint district by day, An Hoi comes alive at night thanks to the vibrant lanterns that light the streets.
The Hoi An Night Market attracts visitors and locals to shop for food, drinks, treats and more. Bars line the riverfront inviting guests to come to drink, dance, laugh and play.
Things to See and Do in An Hoi
- Browse the stalls and shops of sweets, treats, clothes and food at the Hoi An Night Market.
- Enjoy delicious Vietnamese food in the heart of An Hoi at Mango Mango.
- Grab a few drinks and enjoy the river views at the Backpackers Bar, where beers are cheap, cold and delicious.
- Browse the An Hoi Sculpture Garden, a 300-meter stretch of riverfront covered in stone sculptures. Visit at night when the garden is illuminated by lanterns.
- For the cheapest beer in the city visit 93 Hz Pub, where the vibes are good and the prices are low.
- Enjoy great ambience, live music and delicious Vietnamese food at Belleville Restaurant, a relaxed and chilled An Hoi eatery.
- Enjoy a few beers as you grill your own meat, seafood and vegetables at Anh Boa BBQ & Hotpot.
Best Hotel in An Hoi: Lantana Hoi An Boutique Hotel & Spa
This chic four-star hotel is located in An Hoi in the centre of the city. Conveniently situated near Old Town and the city’s major attractions, this hotel is close to restaurants, bars, museums, and art galleries.
Each room has air conditioning, cable/satellite channels as well as a comfortable sitting area.
Best Hostel in An Hoi: Landmark Hostel
Located on the western side of An Hoi, this hostel is a convenient base for exploring the island.
Just a stone’s throw from neighbourhoods best bars, clubs, and the Hoi An Night Market, this hostel is perfect for travellers looking to experience Hoi An’s nightlife.
It boasts stylishly chic dorms and offers guests unlimited daily breakfast and a variety of nightly drinks.
Landmark Hostel is one of our favourites in Hoi An but they’re not taking guests right now. We’re not sure if they’re closed for good but we hope they’ll come back soon.
Best Airbnb in An Hoi: Rooftop Private Room for 2
This accommodation has a great perk, the rooms are designed with a green space so you can enjoy the natural fresh air throughout the house. Plants are everywhere and the rooms have a view to the river and city. There is a good sized terrace where you’ll be able to chill, socialize, read a book, or just enjoy the sunset. Close to everything in old town, but still quiet for a good night’s rest. 1-minute walk to the riverside, where you can get a boat tour, 2 minutes to night market and 5 minutes to the Japanese bridge and Old Town.
Rooftop Private Room for 2 is one of our favourites in Hoi An but they’re not taking guests right now. We’re not sure if they’re closed for good but we hope they’ll come back soon.
4. Cam Chau – Coolest Area to Stay in Hoi An
Cam Chau is a beautiful and quiet neighbourhood located to the east of the city centre. Lying between the Old Town and the beach, this neighbourhood is well positioned for exploring all the very best of Hoi An.
It is also an ideal base for travellers looking to explore the natural side of Hoi An, including the rice paddies, countryside, and river shores. It’s a chance to leave the city behind and stay in a more authentic location in Vietnam.
Cam Chau is one of the coolest neighbourhoods in Hoi An. Home to a good number of restaurants, shops and cafes, this neighbourhood is where you’ll find a great balance of city conveniences and country qualities. Enjoy an authentic Vietnamese experience by staying in Cam Chau.
Things to See and Do in Cam Chau
- Rent Vespas or motorbikes and explore the rice paddies, lush countryside, and villages that surround Hoi An.
- Hop aboard and learn to paddle a bamboo basket boat as you explore the water coconut woods, a unique ecosystem.
- Indulge in a beautiful and delicious meal at Aubergine 49 Restaurant, which offers French, European and Asian fares.
- For vegetarian and vegan food, look no further than Quan Chay Am where you’ll find fresh and delicious food options.
- Take a day trip outside of the city to the charming village of Tra Que, famous for its perfectly aligned rows of plant and vegetables.
- Rent kayaks and explore the canals and waterways surrounding Hoi An.
- Visit the nearby Precious Heritage Art Gallery Museum to view interesting and unique works of art.
Best Hotel in Cam Chau: Goda Boutique Hotel
This two-and-a-half-star hotel is located in the Cam Chau neighbourhood. A short walk to Old Town and Hoi An’s top attractions, this hotel is well situated for exploring the city and its surroundings.
Boasting a sun deck and indoor pool, this hotel also has an in-house restaurant that offers guests a unique dining experience. Rooms are equipped with modern amenities to ensure a pleasant stay in Hoi An.
Best Airbnb in Cam Chau: Centrally located Villa for 2
Rustic Villa in Hoi An is located between the beach and the city center. Their beautifully decorated rooms have cozy lighting, big comfortable beds, and a high ceiling that makes them extra spacious. You have the option of choosing between one king size bed or twin single beds. Daily breakfast as a treat and bicycles available for you to explore the city. Laundry can be done for a very reasonable price.
Best Hostel in Cam Chau: Lazy Bear Hostel
Lazy Bear Hostel is conveniently located between Old Town Hoi An and some of the most beautiful beaches in Vietnam. At the centre of the Cam Chau neighbourhood, this hostel is surrounded by restaurants and shops as well as cultural and historic attractions.
It features dorms and private rooms and has bikes that guests can use for free throughout their stay. Enjoy comfortable beds and free daily breakfast at this fantastic Vietnam backpacker hostel.
5. Cam Thanh – Where to Stay in Hoi An with Family
Cam Thanh is a delightful village located east of Hoi An along the river. Situated between the beach and the city, this neighbourhood is well connected to the rest of Hoi An, yet home to a number of rice paddies, streams, rivers and other picturesque landscapes.
Cam Thanh is a safe neighbourhood and an ideal base for families visiting Hoi An. Featuring lush water coconut and palm forests, this neighbourhood is home to a number of natural delights, interesting animals, and unique sights that will thrill even the youngest of travellers.
Immerse yourself into Vietnamese culture by staying in Cam Thanh Hoi An.
Things to See and Do in Cam Thanh
- Bring good luck and fortune to you and your loved ones by lighting and releasing paper lanterns over the river.
- Rent bikes and explore the riverfront.
- Spend a relaxing day sitting in the sun and playing in the surf at nearby An Bang Beach.
- Learn to make traditional Vietnamese dishes by taking a cooking class as a family. Your little ones will love getting their hands dirty and eating their creations.
- Explore the Thanh Man Fishing Village where you can learn to fish using traditional Vietnamese methods.
- Take a self-guided bike tour through the rice paddy fields where you’ll see working farms and water buffalo.
- Float down the canals and waterways as you ride in a traditional bamboo basket boat.
- Visit a Cam Thanh farm and experience a traditional day in the life of a rural Vietnamese farmer.
Best Airbnb in Cam Thanh: Comfortable and Chic Villa for 4
Ca Private Villa Hoi An comprises 2 private villas with identical floor plans (each one fits 4 people). Each Villa has its own private pool, the Garden Villa having the larger pool. Enjoy holidaying as a family or a group in this luxury villa in Southeast Asia. Breakfast is served every day. It also includes daily housekeeping and bicycles, enjoy a cycle around a genuine Vietnamese community. They also offer a 1 return Airport transfer.
Best Hostel in Cam Thanh: Yellow House Homestay
Yellow House Homestay is the best option for budget accommodations in Cam Thanh. Located in the west end of the district, this property is a short walk to the centre of Hoi An.
Featuring private and shared accommodations, this hostel boasts a common living area with cable TV, a working kitchen, and a relaxing garden. Guests are welcome to enjoy cheap bike rentals and hot showers at this Can Thanh hostel.
Best Hotel in Cam Thanh: Hoi An River Island Villa
Hoi An River Island Villa is a modern and comfortable hotel located in the heart of Cam Thanh.
Well connected to the city centre, this hotel boasts an on-site restaurant and bar where guests can relax each evening. Comprised of six rooms, this three-star hotel provides guests with everything they need for a wonderful stay in Hoi An.
Hoi An River Island Villa is one of our favourites in Hoi An but they’re not taking guests right now. We’re not sure if they’re closed for good but we hope they’ll come back soon.
FAQ about Finding a Place to Stay in Hoi An
Here’s what people usually ask us about the areas of Hoi An and where to stay.
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Final Thoughts on Where to Stay in Hoi An
This beautiful city oozes with charm. Think French colonial buildings and ancient Chinese and Japanese sites. With a couple days in Hoi An, you can get a good feel for this city’s culture and atmosphere.
To make the most of your stay, it’s best to base yourself in the right neighborhood for you! That said, if you still can’t decide on an area, I’ll recap our top two picks for Hoi An.
Tribee Ede hostel is located in Hoi An’s Cam Pho district, walking distance from shops and restaurants. With a kitchen, breakfast, common room, and free pool, you can’t go wrong at this hostel.
Lantana Hoi An Boutique Hotel & Spa is one of the best hotels in Hoi An, as its 4 star luxury conveniently located near Old Town.
Have you been to Hoi An? Let us know in the comments!
If you’re still feeling a little nervous about your security, then check out our travel safety advice for Vietnam! It’s full of useful information and tips.
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