Planning a Family Trip to Hoi An: Things to Know Before You Go
In the process of planning a family trip to Hoi An? Let me share all the things you should know before you can kick off your Hoi An family vacation.
In this post I’ll share general info about Hoi An! It can be hard finding child friendly food and accommodation in a welcoming area.
That’s why I’ll cover things like family friendly dishes and where to eat them, as well as the best areas to stay and where to stay.
Why should you listen to me? Well my family and I have been to Hoi An without and later with kids so I know all about the do’s and don’ts.
What’s the best time to visit Hoi An, what’s the best way to get there and how do you get around town? You’ll read all this and more in this article.
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About Hoi An
Hoi An is one of the prettiest and most picturesque cities of Vietnam. Once an important harbor city, it’s now known for its magnificent architecture. You can find French colonial buildings here, Chinese buildings and even Japanese influenced architecture.
It’s no wonder that UNESCO appointed the entire Old Town of Hoi An a World Heritage List site.
Hoi An is our family’s most favorite city in Vietnam for lots of reasons. No crazy traffic, but a pedestrian only city centre. Lots of fun things to do for families. And even more delicious local dishes to try.
I bet it will also end up high on your family’s list of best cities to visit after your Vietnam family trip.
Why Hoi An is a great choice for a family visit
The amazing thing about Hoi An is that it offers a great mix of activities that are interesting for both adults and kids of all ages.
Parents can get their history and architecture fix, and enjoy the fact that the Old Town of Hoi An feels like stepping back in time.
In addition to that there are different museums to visit and you can shop for local goods. These things can also be fun for older kids.
Another great thing is that kids can safely bike through the Old Town. Other top Hoi An attractions for kids are learning how to make paper lanterns, carve wood and also dabble in a calligraphy class.
A visit to the local market is fun for all ages. And there are cooking classes on offer that cater to families. In short, coming up with the things to do with kids in Hoi An is easy.
Hoi An is a relatively small city with a laid back atmosphere. And if you compare Hoi An to major Vietnamese cities like Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Hué or Da Nang, it’s so much more relaxed here.
Hoi An offers a nice change of pace after visiting cities like that. That’s great for toddlers and maybe also for older kids.
That’s not to say it’s a quiet town. Nope, it’s one of the busiest travel destinations in Vietnam. Venture away from the heart of the Old Town and you get a great sense of the relaxed vibe. Hoi An should definitely be on your Vietnam trip itinerary.
Hoi An with toddlers and babies
The compact size of the ancient town means less walking and more stroller-friendly paths, making it easy to explore with little ones in tow.
Hoi An is one of only a few Vietnamese cities that we visited that’s actually surprisingly buggy friendly. But when you’re traveling to Vietnam with kids, it might not be enough reason to bring your stroller along. Most destinations in Vietnam are best explored with a baby carrier, instead of a stroller.
The car-free streets make it easy for you to stop worrying about traffic. Safe that for other Vietnamese cities 😉 .
Plus, many of Hoi An’s attractions, like the colorful lantern displays and the gentle Thu Bon River, are toddler-friendly and very easy on the eyes.
When it comes to amenities, Hoi An has plenty of family-oriented accommodations, from hotels offering baby cots and high chairs to spacious homestays with a personal touch.
Restaurants are also welcoming to families, with a variety of kid-friendly dishes like noodles and pancakes that cater to tiny taste buds.
Whether you’re taking a slow bike ride through the rice fields or enjoying the calm, shallow waters at An Bang Beach, Hoi An offers a mix of relaxation and fun, making it a stress-free destination for parents and a delightful experience for little ones.
Is it safe to visit Hoi An with kids
Hoi An is definitely safe for kids. No crazy traffic in the city center, because the entire Old Town is forbidden for cars and motorbikes. The only thing you have to look out for are food carts and bicycles.
Avoid exploring the ancient town during the hottest parts of the day, especially with young kids, as it can get overwhelmingly warm. Instead, plan your sightseeing in the morning or late afternoon when the weather is cooler.
Street food is a big part of the experience, but avoid stalls that don’t look clean or that keep food out in the open for too long.
Hoi An Old Town Ticket
To get into the Old Town, or Ancient Town, you need a ticket. With the money travelers pay for the entrance ticket, locals can renovate the historical houses where they live. It’s also used for renovation of the temples and pagodas.
You can’t buy these tickets in advance and you have to go to the ticket offices to buy them. Most of them are open from 7am to 7pm. Some even remain open until 9pm.
There are about 15 ticket booths spread out all over town, these are some of the places where you can buy a ticket:
- At the crossroad of Nguyen Phuc Chu and Chau Thuong Van next to the An Hoi Bridge
- Behind the Japanese Covered Bridge
- At the gate of the Ba Mu Temple
- At the intersection of Phan Chu Trinh street and Hai Ba Trung street
- At the intersection of Hoang Dieu and Tran Phu right near the Hainan assembly hall
- At the Tourist Information Centre in Hoang Dieu street
- In Cong Nu Ngoc Hoa street, opposite Cabanon Restaurant
- In Duong Cao Hong Lanh street on An Hoi island, near Song Hoai Square Bridge
- At the intersection of Le Loi street and Tran Phu street
- At the intersection of Bach Dang street and Hoang Van Thu street
What does the Hoi An Old Town ticket cover?
Of course it covers entry to the UNESCO-inscribed area anytime during the day. Please make sure to keep the tickets on you at all times. They’ll ask for it when you want to enter one of the sites. I’ve heard they also do some random checks in the streets, although we never experienced that.
In addition to entry to the Ancient Town of Hoi An, ticket holders can enter 5 sightseeing places in the area. Which sites are included? Tan Ky and Duc An and other old houses, all the assembly houses, like the Fujian (Phuc Kien) Assembly Hall. And also museums and traditional theatres.
At each attraction, they cut off one of the 5 pieces at the side of your ticket. When all are cut, you need to buy another ticket to see the other 16 sights in the Old Town.
Opening Hours of the Old Town
Every day, the Old Town becomes pedestrian-only from 9am to 11am and from 3pm to 9pm. In summer they extend it with 30 minutes until 9.30pm.
The streets are bordered by barriers to prevent the entry of vehicles. And not just for cars, but bikes and motorcycles are also not allowed to enter the Old Town during these times.
When to visit Hoi An
Spring (March to May)
Spring is one of the best times to visit Hoi An, as the weather is pleasantly warm with temperatures ranging from 25–30°C.
The skies are clear, and the humidity is relatively low, making it perfect for outdoor family adventures like cycling through the rice paddies or strolling through the lantern-lit ancient town.
You’ll also see fewer crowds compared to summer.
A major bonus for families visiting in the spring is the Lantern Festival, held monthly during the full moon, where the streets come alive with music, dancing, and colorful lanterns floating down the river—a magical experience for kids.
Summer (June to August)
Summers in Hoi An can be pretty hot, with temperatures often reaching 35°C.
This is a great season for beach lovers, as the waters at An Bang Beach and Cua Dai Beach are warm and calm, ideal for toddlers and young children to paddle and play.
Early mornings and late afternoons are the best times for outdoor activities to avoid the midday heat.
While summer brings vibrant energy to the town, it also marks the peak tourist season, meaning attractions and streets can be quite crowded.
While festivals are fewer in summer, you can enjoy family-friendly boat tours on the Thu Bon River, offering scenic views of the countryside and a chance to spot native birds in their natural habitat.
However, the heat and high humidity may make long outdoor excursions challenging, especially for families with babies or toddlers.
Opt for plenty of shade, hydration, and indoor activities like lantern-making workshops during the hottest parts of the day.
Autumn (September to November)
Autumn is a transitional season in Hoi An, with temperatures cooling slightly to a more comfortable range of 24–30°C.
September still gets some summer heat, but by October and November, the town becomes more quiet, with fewer crowds and stunning golden rice fields surrounding the countryside.
The Mid-Autumn Festival, held in September or October, is a delightful celebration for families. Kids can enjoy the colorful dragon dances, mooncakes, and the sight of the town glowing with lanterns under the full moon.
However, autumn also marks the beginning of the rainy season, with November being particularly wet. Flooding can occur, especially in low-lying areas of the ancient town, which may disrupt some plans.
Winter (December to February)
Winter in Hoi An is cooler, with temperatures ranging from 18–24°C, making it a comfortable season for families to explore without worrying about heat or humidity.
This is a great time for outdoor activities like cycling through Tra Que Vegetable Village or taking peaceful walks along the river.
The weather is generally dry in December and January, offering ideal conditions for sightseeing and enjoying the town’s festive decorations. Tet, or Vietnamese Lunar New Year, often falls in late January or February, providing families with a chance to experience traditional Vietnamese celebrations and cultural performances.
The downside to winter is that the cooler temperatures may not be ideal for beach days, as the water can feel chilly.
Additionally, February can bring occasional light rains, though these are generally brief and won’t ruin your plans.
Food in Hoi An
Hoi An’s cuisine is rich in flavor and many dishes will be adapted by restaurants or food carts when you mention it’s for kids. This way they don’t have to miss out on anything Let’s mention some dishes your kids will enjoy!
Most kids will enjoy Cau Lau. Served with thick rice noodles in a delicious broth with sliced pork, fresh herbs, bean sprouts and crispy rice crackers.
You can easily ask to skip the herbs or adjust the toppings. The noodles are soft and easy to eat, making it toddler-friendly, too!
Have you really been to Hoi An if you haven’t tried banh mi. This Vietnamese sandwich can be ordered all over the country, but we liked them best in Hoi An.
It’s a crispy baguette with a variety of fillings like grilled pork, pate, cucumber, pickled vegetables, and a touch of chili sauce or mayonnaise.
Banh mi is a winner with kids! You can easily customize the fillings—opt for simple combinations like grilled chicken and cucumber or leave out the chili for younger ones.
Our favorites are the white rose dumplings (Banh Bao Banh Vac). These steamed rice flour dumplings are filled with minced shrimp or pork, topped with crispy fried garlic and served with a mild dipping sauce.
These bite-sized dumplings are perfect for kids, with their mild flavor and fun, flower-like appearance.
Almost all Vietnamese cities have their own variation of chicken and rice. In Hoi An it’s Com Ga, or Hoi An chicken rice. It’s fluffy yellow rice cooked in chicken broth, shredded poached chicken, fresh herbs, and a chili-lime sauce.
The chili sauce is served on the side, so you can easily skip it if you like.
The last dish I’d like to mention is Mi Quang (Quang-style noodles). These rice noodles are served in a flavorful broth of either chicken or pork. In the dish you’ll find shrimp, pork slices, quail eggs, fresh herbs, and crispy rice crackers.
This dish is generally mild and can be adjusted for kids by skipping the herbs or any spicy toppings.
Where to eat in Hoi An with kids
There are so many great restaurants and street food carts in Hoi An that it was very hard to come up with the top ones. But I’ve asked this question to my family and the result is this list of best places to eat in Hoi An during your family holiday!
Morning Glory | €€ – €€€ | Check Ratings
Known for its authentic Vietnamese cuisine, Morning Glory is a top tip for families. We had some of the best dumplings ever in this restaurant.
While it doesn’t have a specific kids’ menu, the menu is diverse and also provides vegetarian and vegan options.
We did see some kids eating fries. So if you can’t get them excited for the local cuisine you can get them some veggies and fries.
The Noodle House | € | Check Ratings
The Noodle House is famous for, you guessed it, all sorts of noodles. They’re all hand made! We absolutely loved it and went back twice.
Most options on the menu aren’t too spicy. And they don’t mind adjusting dishes so kids will eat them.
They offer coloring paper and crayons to kids, which is always a nice touch.
Mango Rooms | €€ – €€€ | Check Ratings
Mango Rooms offers a fusion of Vietnamese and international dishes in a vibrant setting. Perfect if you like to switch things up a bit.
They have a kids menu with options like fish and chips, making it easier for children to find something they enjoy.
The wine selection is great here, and honestly that’s something that’s rare in Vietnam.
Nhan’s Kitchen | € | Check Ratings
Known for its diverse menu, including vegetarian dishes, local food, pizzas and burgers. Nhan’s Kitchen can be a welcome change when you’ve been eating Vietnamese food for weeks.
While my guy refused to give up on local food. The rest of us indulged in pizza, pasta and burgers.
We met up with some friends from home that were also traveling here and we all loved our food. It was our one evening skipping local food.
You’re not in Italy, so don’t expect top notch pizza, but overall they tasted very nice!
Baby Mustard Restaurant | € | Check Ratings
While Baby Mustard Restaurant is not a great name for a place to eat, it did the trick for us. The name was the reason we picked this place.
We were not disappointed. The food was great, we loved the entourage and the prices were low. In fact we double checked the bill, because we couldn’t believe it.
We were told all the herbs come from their own garden, as are a lot of the fruits. The garden is right next to the seating area.
There’s room for kids to run around outside. So that was very nice.
If you’re up for a cooking class, you can book one here.
Where to stay in Hoi An with kids
When planning a family trip to Hoi An, you have to pick the right area to stay with your family. Here are 3 areas in Hoi An that are perfect for families with children.
I have to start with the Ancient Town. You’re literally in the center of everything. Which means that everything is within walking distance. But it also means that you’re staying in the busiest part of Hoi An.
There are beautiful accommodations in the Old Town, but since it’s the place to be, you’ll be paying more when staying here.
For a more relaxed environment, An Bang Beach is the top choice. With seaside family-friendly accommodations and easy access to the beach this is the ideal place to stay. An ideal mix of busy city life and chill beach vibes.
Alternatively, Cam Chau Ward offers a balance between the two, featuring peaceful surroundings amidst rice paddies while still being conveniently close to both the beach and the Ancient Town.
If you make sure your accommodation has bikes available for you to use, this is an awesome area to stay.
Top places to stay in Hoi An with kids
Here are some of the top places to stay in Hoi An with family. There’s something for everyone, because I opted for hotels in different price ranges.
Four Seasons Resort The Nam Hai *****
Price: €€€ | Area: Ha My Beach | Check Ratings
The Four Seasons Resort The Nam Hai is known for its luxurious villas and top service. And best of all, it has a private beach!
The family rooms have multiple bedrooms. The resort also offers kids activities at the kids club.
There’s an adult pool, but also a kid friendly one. Looking for a date night? No problem, because there are babysitters available.
Victoria Hoi An Beach Resort & Spa ****
Price: €€€ | Cua Dai Beach | Check Ratings
The Victoria Hoi An Beach Resort & Spa is a gorgeous colonial-style resort, but of course with modern amenities.
Families can enjoy the kids’ club and the kids’ pool with pool toys.
Babysitters are available and of course the biggest draw of this hotel is also the private beach.
Odyssey Hoi An Hotel ****
Price: €€ | Area: on Can Nam Island | Check Ratings
Odyssey Hoi An Hotel is kinda the best in both worlds. It’s not on the beach, but it’s on an island that’s about 10min from the Old Town.
That means you can get yourselves a spacious family room and a pool. The family play areas are awesome and surrounded by trees and on grass.
It’s also in close proximity to Hoi An Ancient Town. Use the free bikes from the resort to get around easily.
Add the reasonable rates and this mid-range hotel is our top pick from the bunch!
Hoi An Sincerity Hotel & Spa ****
Price: €€ | Area: Cam Chau Ward | Check Ratings
At the Hoi An Sincerity Hotel & Spa we met the friendliest of staff. And comfortable rooms, this hotel provides excellent value for money. It’s located right in between the beach and the Old Town.
You can reach both in about 10min. But if you like you can use the shuttle service or use the hotel bikes.
The hotel has some family rooms and a swimming pool, making it suitable for families seeking comfort without a hefty price tag.
Hoi An Holiday Villa ***
Price: € | Area: Cam Chau Ward | Check Ratings
A budget option in the same area is Hoi An Holiday Villa. This family-owned hotel also offers a peaceful atmosphere with an outdoor pool and lush gardens.
The hotel provides 10 spacious rooms and one of them is a family suite, but you have to reach out to them directly to book it.
Nu Ni Homestay **
Price: € | Area: Old Town | Check Ratings
Family run Nu Ni Homestay has a cozy atmosphere and friendly staff with clean rooms and a great breakfast!
Provides family rooms and it’s located north of Old Town, about 5min away. With the spacious and clean rooms it’s a miracle that this is a budget option since its location is awesome!
We loved the inner courtyard, decorated with lanterns and warm colors.
How to get to Hoi An
Fly
Some international airlines fly to Da Nang, which is the city next to Hoi An. If you can’t find a flight to Da Nang, book a flight to Ho Chi Minh City’s Tan Son Nhat International Airport. And travel to Da Nang from there by plane or train.
Getting to Hoi An from Da Nang takes 40 minutes by taxi or Grab, which is the Asian Uber.
Train & bus
If you’re traveling to Hoi An by train or bus from other cities in Vietnam or internationally from neighboring countries, book your tickets via 12Go. Hoi An is a great stop before or after you visit Hue with kids, because there’s a night train connecting the 2 places.
The trains are all in good condition, with comfortable beds and relatively clean. People eat a lot of food on the trains and cockroaches know that. So don’t be surprised if you spot one here and there.
How to get around in Hoi An
Like I mentioned earlier the Old Town is pedestrian-only from 9am to 11am and from 3pm to 9pm. You can get a taxi or Grab to the edges of the Old Town.
But the best way of getting around in Hoi An is by bike. Lots of accommodations offer bikes for rent. And many of the AirBnB’s as well. Hoi An can easily and safely be explored by bike.
The Old Town itself is quite compact. Everyone can be done on foot.
FAQ – Planning a Family Trip to Hoi An – Things to Know Before You Go
Don’t have time to read this post? Save this post for later and check out this FAQ for answers to the most common questions about a Hoi An family trip.
What are the best things to do in Hoi An with kids?
Check out the top things to do in Hoi An with children for a huge list of options. Don’t have time for that? Here’s a short summary.
Start with a free walking tour through the Old Town or explore it yourselves! Then join a lantern-making workshop where you can craft your own souvenirs.
A boat ride on the Thu Bon River is another highlight.
For outdoor fun, rent bikes and explore the peaceful rice paddies or spend a day at An Bang Beach.
Don’t miss a cooking class tailored for families, where kids can roll spring rolls and flip pancakes. Hoi An offers endless opportunities for family-friendly fun!
Is Hoi An safe with kids
Yes, Hoi An is generally very safe for families traveling with kids.
The Ancient Town is a pedestrian-friendly zone, with limited traffic and well-maintained streets, making it easy to explore without constantly worrying about safety.
Locals are warm and welcoming toward children, often going out of their way to make families feel comfortable. The town also has plenty of family-friendly activities, from lantern-making workshops to gentle boat rides, ensuring kids can enjoy themselves safely.
That said, like anywhere, keep an eye on kids near the riverbanks, especially at night, and be cautious in crowded areas like markets to avoid getting separated.
Pack sunscreen and mosquito repellent, as the tropical climate can be intense at times.
Is Hoi An safe at night with kids?
Hoi An is very safe at night, even for families with kids. At night the famous lanterns in the Old Town light up the streets, creating a magical atmosphere.
The pedestrian-only areas make it easy to wander around without worrying about vehicles, and there’s usually a friendly, laid-back vibe throughout the town.
However, it’s wise to stick to well-lit areas and keep an eye on little ones, especially near the river, as there are no barriers along some sections.
If your kids are younger or you’re traveling with a stroller, plan your route to avoid overly crowded streets during festivals or busy evenings.
Is Hoi An worth visiting?
Absolutely! Hoi An is a charming blend of culture, history, and natural beauty, making it a unique destination for travelers of all ages.
From its UNESCO-listed Ancient Town with stunning architecture to its serene beaches and lush rice paddies, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
The lantern-lit evenings, vibrant markets, and delicious food add to the town’s undeniable charm.
Whether you’re looking for relaxation or adventure, Hoi An has the perfect mix, making it well worth a visit.
Is Hoi An stroller friendly?
Hoi An is relatively stroller-friendly, especially in the Ancient Town where the streets are mostly flat and car-free.
The pedestrian zones make it easier for families to navigate, and many attractions are close together, reducing the need for constant folding and unfolding of strollers.
However, some areas can be tricky, like narrow alleys or places with cobblestones.
Is Hoi An child friendly?
Yes, Hoi An is kid friendly! The town is compact and easy to navigate, and the locals are very welcoming toward families with children.
Many restaurants offer kid-friendly dishes or are happy to accommodate requests, and attractions like lantern-making workshops, boat rides, and rice paddy tours are great for kids.
There are also plenty of outdoor spaces, from the beaches to the countryside, where kids can run around and explore.
What is so special about Hoi An?
Hoi An’s charm lies in its blend of history, culture, and beauty.
The Ancient Town, with its well-preserved architecture and vibrant lanterns, feels like stepping back in time.
Add to that the delicious food, friendly locals, and unique traditions, and it’s easy to see why everyone loves Hoi An.
The town’s ability to cater to all kinds of travelers, from solo adventurers to families, while maintaining its authenticity is truly special.
Whether you’re cycling through rice fields, crafting your own lanterns, or enjoying a serene sunset by the river, Hoi An offers experiences that feel both personal and unforgettable.
Why visit Hoi An with family?
Hoi An is the perfect family destination, offering a mix of relaxation and adventure that caters to all ages.
Parents will love the rich cultural experiences and stunning scenery, while kids can enjoy hands-on activities like lantern-making, cooking classes, and exploring the peaceful countryside on bike rides.
The town’s compact size and walkability make it easy to navigate with kids, and the locals’ warm hospitality adds an extra layer of comfort.
Whether you’re enjoying delicious food, playing on the beaches, or marveling at the glowing lanterns, Hoi An provides it all!
Conclusion
That’s it! Know you know all there is to know about Hoi An.
You’re ready to plan your trip and enjoy this UNESCO heritage listed pearl of Central Vietnam. Enjoy!
Did you enjoy the things to know before your Hoi An family trip?
If so, read more about family travel in Vietnam:
- Ultimate Vietnam Family Road Trip Itinerary
- 16 Things to Do In Hanoi with Kids
- Planning a Family Trip to Hanoi: Things to Know Before You Go
- 10 Things to Do In Ho Chi Minh City with Kids
- 8 Things to Do In Hue with Kids
- Planning a Family Trip to Hoi An: Things to Know Before You Go
- 24 Best Things to Do In Hoi An with Kids
- Halong Bay Cruise with Kids
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