Hoi An

Tours

From September to January, the rainy season in Hoi An calls for a reliable umbrella, but fewer crowds and the city’s unique drizzling atmosphere make this season a good time to visit. Slurp a steaming bowl of pho (brothy Vietnamese noodle soup) in a cozy cafe or grab onto the unique experience of cruising through the Ancient Town’s streets by boat. The rainy season in Hoi An gives a magical twist to the city’s usual charm — authentic moments like lantern-making workshops are all around. Here’s your guide to what to do when it rains in Hoi An.

Hoi An’s rainy season at a glance

When is the rainy season in Hoi An?
Hoi An’s rainy season typically lasts from September to January, with the heaviest rainfall peaking in October and November. Temperatures hover between 66-82 F (19-28 C) with high humidity. Afternoons and early evenings often bring the heaviest rain, though it rarely lasts all day.

The top things to do for kids and families visiting Hoi An in the rainy season: Take a lantern-making class to immerse yourself in local culture.
Romantic spots for couples in Hoi An during the rainy season: Escape the rain at one of Hoi An’s atmospheric teahouses or coffee shops for a warm, intimate retreat.
Unique events that take place in Hoi An in the rainy season: The chance to explore Hoi An’s streets by boat during seasonal flooding.

If you’re picturing lantern-lit streets, historic architecture, and traditional boats floating on the river, you may be daydreaming about Hoi An. From shopping at the night market to exploring the waters of An Bang Beach in a basket boat, there are countless things to do for your first time in Hoi An. This remarkable city doubles as a UNESCO World Heritage Site where Vietnam’s historic identity and modern character coexist. Here’s your first-timer’s guide to all the things you need to know about Hoi An, including the city’s hidden gems, how to get around, what food to try, and which neighborhoods to visit.

Hoi An: tips for first-timers

1. Cash is generally preferred in most small shops, tailors, and street stalls, so make sure to have some VND handy.
2. Bargaining is common in the markets and for tailoring services, but it is important to remain respectful and polite to get a fair price.
3. The streets get really crowded around sunset, especially during the monthly lantern festival when all the lanterns turn on at night. For a quieter experience, try visiting the Ancient Town (the old town) early in the morning.
4. If you plan to have clothing made by Hoi An’s famous tailors, allow at least 48 hours for fittings and adjustments.
5. Motorbike parking and vehicle access are limited in popular areas, so walking or biking around town is often easier.
6. Many people in Hoi An are able to speak or understand English, but learning a few common phrases in Vietnamese is still a good gesture.

An exceptionally well-preserved example of a Southeast Asian trading port dating from the 15th century, Hoi An Ancient Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site with abundant culture and history. From exploring the vibrant local markets to taking an evening boat ride along the Thu Bon River, plenty of fun activities await you in this month-by-month guide to Hoi An. Whether you discover the vibrant Hoi An Night Market, learn how to make Vietnamese coffee, or explore the nearby rice paddies and quiet villages, this is everything you need to know about the best time to visit Hoi An.

Choosing the best time to go to Hoi An

Best time for outdoor lovers

February to June bring warm, dry conditions, making this the perfect time to explore the great outdoors. Temperatures are milder from February to April, so if you want to avoid overheating, these months will be ideal.

Best time for people on a budget

If you’re traveling on a budget and don’t mind compromising on the weather, September to November is the perfect time to visit Hoi An. This is the height of the city’s rainy season, meaning it’s much quieter, and the demand for accommodation is much lower.

Best time for sightseeing

If you want to do some sightseeing, visiting Hoi An during the dry season is best. Anytime between December and June will bring optimum conditions for exploring the city’s top sights.

Hoi An throughout the seasons

Spring in Hoi An

March to May

Spring in Hoi An is dry and warm, with temperatures ranging from 71.6 F to 87.8 F (22 C to 31 C). In March, the annual Hot Air Balloon Festival is held at Hoai River Square, where guests can float above the city in colorful hot-air balloons and get a stunning birds-eye view of the landscapes below.

Summer in Hoi An

June to August

Hoi An summers are hot and humid, with temperatures rising to 95 F (35 C). Although the city remains mostly dry, the rainy season begins in August. June brings one of the city's most spectacular cultural festivals: the annual Thu Bon River Worshiping Festival, which sees locals making offerings and paying tribute to the river.

Fall in Hoi An

September to November

September to November are the wettest months in the region, so if you plan to visit Hoi An during fall, pack your waterproofs. Still, wet conditions mean fewer tourists visit the city during these months, making it the ideal time to enjoy a less crowded experience.

Winter in Hoi An

December to February

Winter in the city brings mild temperatures and less rainfall, making it a great time to visit Hoi An and do some sightseeing. Many vibrant cultural events occur in December and January, including art performances, street music events, and lantern festivals on the Hoai River.

Tet Dong Chi celebrates the Winter Solstice, with locals partaking in various customs and rituals, such as decorating their homes, bringing offerings to ancestors, and cooking traditional meals. Tet Nguyen Dan, one of the city’s most significant festivals, welcomes the Lunar New Year with fireworks, street markets, traditional music, boat races, and games.

Nestled on Vietnam’s central coast, the best neighborhoods in Hoi An range from the ancient old town to remote natural areas. Start your trip in Ancient Town, exploring famous landmarks like the Japanese Covered Bridge. Nature enthusiasts will love the stunning Cam Thanh, with its Bay Mau Coconut Forest and Tra Que Vegetable Village, while Cam Chau is a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. For ocean views, you can’t beat An Bang Beach or Cua Dai Beach, the gateway to the stunning Cham Islands. Whether you’re seeking history, culture, or nature, discover the best Hoi An neighborhoods in this list.