Antisocial Tourist

If you’re looking for romantic things to do in Hoi An, you’ve come to the right place. Ideal for honeymooners, anniversary celebrations, and those seeking a sprinkle of romance in their travels, Hoi An is the perfect place for lovebirds.

We spent some time in Hoi An searching for the dreamiest spots and the best activities for couples to enjoy together, and we were hard-pressed to find something that didn’t feel romantic. The town is like the setting of a fairytale! It’s filled with old-world charm and lantern-lit streets. And its oldest quarter, called “Ancient Town,” is even a UNESCO World Heritage Site!

From strolling hand in hand through Ancient Town’s cobbled lanes to enjoying a tranquil dinner along the river, you’ll find plenty of chances for romance. But for couples that really want to go all out with their special someone, we’ve rounded up our top suggestions for romantic things to do in Hoi An below.

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12 Romantic Things To Do in Hoi An

Hoi An can be an unforgettable destination for couples seeking charm and romance during their travels. From lantern-lit evenings along the river to intimate cultural performances, keep reading to discover why this quaint town is perfect for couples.

1. Attend a Cultural Performance

Bamboo Circus Lune Production Hoi An Vietnam

The bamboo circus is a must-see cultural performance in Hoi An that makes for the perfect date night! It’s like a Cirque du Soleil show drenched in Vietnamese culture. The Hoi An Lune Center for the Performing Arts is easy to get to on foot and features different performances throughout the year, and each one is just as good as the next.

So if you’re ready to get swept away together through breathtaking acrobatics, storytelling, music, and dance, you can purchase tickets directly from Lune Production. Performances start at 6:00 pm on show nights, so you can make a night of it by having dinner after the show. We suggest taking a 5-minute stroll along the river to Mango Mango for dinner. This was our favorite restaurant in Hoi An. Hot Tip — Order the Rocking Rolls as an appetizer!

_💣 _{Antisocial Tourist Tip — If you’re buying your tickets last minute and they’re unavailable online, stop by their box office to check for available seats.}

2. Take a Lantern Making Class

The art of lantern-making has been passed down through generations in Vietnam, so you’ll find them all over the country. But in the City of Hoi An especially, they’re everywhere, and it’s incredibly romantic. Hoi An has even been dubbed the City of Lanterns.

We still can’t believe how many lanterns we saw in Hoi An. They were hanging from every tree top, throughout hotels, in restaurants, along the streets and river — so many that it would be impossible to count. So it only makes sense that lantern-making classes are offered around town.

This Foldable Lantern Making Class is such a unique date idea and it’s perfect for all types of couples! The class is affordable, easy to follow, and lasts less than two hours. And you’ll even get to keep your foldable lanterns as souvenirs!

3. Make a Wish on a Lantern Boat

Hoi An has a nightly tradition of lantern lighting on the Thu Bon River that runs through town. As the sun sets, travelers head out on the river and set paper lanterns afloat as they make a wish. Each boat ride only lasts about 20 minutes, so this is another great thing to do before or after dinner.

There’s no need to pre-book your boat ride — you’ll find lantern sellers lining the streets and river nightly. Lanterns are sold for 10,000 VND ($0.40 USD) each and boat rides cost 150,000 VND ($6 USD) and up, depending on the size of your party. Don’t worry about negotiating the prices, they are set and you will see signs all around.

But once you pay for your lanterns and boat ticket you can jump in the queue at any time. Most people start lining up just before sunset. Things move quickly and efficiently but the boat drivers can be aggressive. Don’t be afraid to tell them to slow down and let you enjoy the moment, otherwise, you may feel rushed.

We admit that it can feel a bit touristy, but as long as you manage your expectations, this is one of the most romantic things to do in Hoi An! You really shouldn’t miss this activity, especially if it’s your first visit.

_💣 _{Antisocial Tourist Tip — Buy at least 2 lanterns per person to ensure you don’t miss your magical moment! The wind and busy river can easily knock them over when they’re placed in the water.}

4. Go for a Coconut Boat Ride

Hoi An is known for its crazy spinning coconut boat rides thanks to social media (if you know, you know). But what you don’t see on Instagram is the romantic ride through the Coconut Forest canals that lead to the spinning madness.

If you book this 1-Hour Basket Boat Ride you’ll skip all the tourist lines and board a basket boat away from the crowds, along a tranquil canal. Your guide will then leisurely paddle you through the Coconut Forest until you reach a large open area of water where all the basket boats gather. This is where the tranquility is set aside and you’ll experience live floating DJs, twirling basket boats, and hoards of other tourists living their best lives.

Once you spend some time here, you’ll take the same tranquil canals back to where you started. This experience ticks the boxes for both romance and fun and should not be missed. And if you do want to take that famous ‘spin’ in a basket boat, you can tip your guide 100,000 VND ($4 USD) to try it. Just hold on tight!

5. Join a Food Tour

Taking a food tour in Hoi An can be such a romantic and engaging activity for couples. Imagine wandering through the bustling streets and alleyways of Hoi An, hand in hand, as you embark on a culinary adventure together.

As you explore, you’ll have the chance to try a variety of local specialties, from the famous Cao Lau (a personal favorite) to the sweet and savory flavors of Banh Mi. Each stop on the food tour invites you to share bites, exchange smiles over new tastes, and enjoy the intimate moments that come from discovering something new together.

Tours usually last 3-4 hours and provide a perfect blend of culture, history, and delicious bites. We recommend booking directly with Eat Hoi An! They offer authentic tours that will bring you to all the places you’d never find on your own!

6. Get a Couples Outfit Tailored

In Hoi An, you’ll find a tailor shop on every corner, sometimes two. If you need something tailored, this city is the place to do it. But having the most experienced tailors in the world at your fingertips offers a truly unique and intimate experience that many couples overlook — getting custom matching outfits made.

Imagine selecting fabrics together, choosing designs that complement each other, and then watching skilled artisans craft these ideas into reality. You’ll find a wide range of styles and options for both men and women, and most shops will have your garments ready the next day. Just be sure to pick a reputable shop that is recommended by other locals, such as BeBe or Yaly Couture.

_💣 _{Antisocial Tourist Tip — If you sign up for this Sewing Workshop you can learn to make the outfits together!}

7. Book a Photoshoot

Booking a photoshoot during a trip is so underrated, especially for couples. And when you’re in a town as picturesque as Hoi An, hiring a professional photographer to capture your most romantic moments is a no-brainer. You’ll find endless photo opportunities in Hoi An and a local photographer will take you to the very best spots.

Some photography companies will even provide Vietnamese outfits to wear in your pictures! These traditional garments will add an extra layer of depth and authenticity to your photos. This Walking Photography Tour or this Photography Tour with Ao Dai Dress are two great choices.

_💣 _{Antisocial Tourist Tip — Visit a local tailor shop a couple of days before your photoshoot so you can get your own matching outfits made!}

8. Take a Chocolate Making Class

Taking a Chocolate Making Workshop in Hoi An is a sweet and memorable way for couples to add a touch of romance to their trip. One of the most popular classes is held at a local chocolate factory called Alluvia. This workshop delivers a hands-on experience into the world of chocolate that’s both fun and educational.

The workshop allows couples to work together to create their own unique chocolate creations. This experience is perfect for those who love to indulge in gourmet experiences and enjoy sweet moments together.

And if chocolate really isn’t your thing, consider joining a Local Cooking Class instead! You’ll learn to make several local dishes together that you can try to recreate when you get back home, which is another great date night idea!

9. Go on a Cocktail Tasting Tour

Believe it or not, Hoi An has an amazing Secret Cocktail Tour perfect for couples! This experience will take you and your partner through some of the hidden bars and tucked-away speakeasies of Hoi An, where you’ll taste exclusive cocktails made with local ingredients.

This tour not only offers a chance to unwind and enjoy each other’s company in a lively yet intimate setting but also provides a unique opportunity to engage with local mixologists and learn about the regional ingredients that influence their craft. Each stop on the tour brings a new flavor (and a new story).

_💣 _{Antisocial Tourist Tip — If you don’t drink alcohol, consider this Coffee Making Experience instead! You’ll learn to make several types of local coffee with plenty of tastings too!}

10. Cycle Through the Countryside

Cycling through the countryside of Hoi An is an enchanting and romantic activity and an active way for couples to explore the natural beauty surrounding this historic city. A Countryside Cycling Tour is a serene escape from the bustling town center, where you’ll peddle through lush landscapes, traditional villages, and vibrant rice paddies.

The tour will go at your own pace and you’ll have plenty of opportunities to stop at different scenic spots and capture beautiful photos. You’ll even see locals with water buffalos walking the land which adds to the magic.

If you’re not up for cycling and still want to explore the countryside, this Countryside Jeep Tour is a great alternative. This tour is fun and immersive too — you’ll learn to grind rice, make rice paper, visit a fishing village, and enjoy a coffee tasting.

11. Get a Couples Massage

Vietnam is renowned for its exceptional spa services, combining traditional techniques with natural ingredients to provide a holistic wellness experience. And it’s incredibly cheap compared to other areas of the world. This makes it a fantastic place to enjoy a massage.

Getting a couples massage is one of the most romantic things to do in Hoi An and it’s the perfect way to relax after a day of exploring. You’ll find massage shops on every corner and each spa offers a unique ambiance, from luxurious settings to more modest, cozy establishments.

Just like restaurants post their menus at the door, most massage shops will have their services and prices listed outside. You can choose from a simple foot massage to a whole body massage, and everything in between.

12. Relax at An Bang Beach

Relaxing at An Bang Beach is a wonderfully romantic and laid-back activity for couples visiting Hoi An. It’s just a short 10-minute drive (or 25-minute cycle) from town and it provides a refreshing escape from the busy town center.

An Bang Beach is a 2.5-mile (4-kilometer) stretch of sand lined with lounge chairs, beach umbrellas, coconut boats, and restaurants. Couples can soak up the sun, swim, enjoy water activities (surfing, parasailing, jet skiing), and grab a bite to eat at one of the many restaurants along the shore.

There are several spots along the beach where you can rent chairs for a small fee. Many beachside cafes and vendors offer beach chairs too, in exchange for ordering food and drink. You’ll also find public toilets, showers, and changing facilities near the beach.

Best Time to Visit Hoi An

The best time to visit Hoi An is from February to April when the weather is mild and dry. The dry season runs from February to July, but the later summer months bring sweltering heat. The dry season coincides with several cultural festivals too.

Hoi An’s rainy season brings cooler temperatures and a lot of rainfall from October to December. This deters many visitors, which means fewer tourists and lower prices for hotels and activities. The rain showers typically occur in the afternoons and they’re heavy but brief.

Traveling during the shoulder months or the rainy season does require some additional flexibility, but it can be incredibly rewarding to visit such a popular destination when tourist crowds are at their lowest.

How to Get to Hoi An

Traveling to Hoi An is easy. The nearest major airport is Da Nang International Airport, which is about 45 minutes away from Ancient Town. Most travelers typically connect through a major Asian hub like Bangkok or Singapore.

Once you land at Da Nang International Airport you can take a bus, book a shuttle, or arrange a private transfer to your hotel in Hoi An. The bus is the cheapest option but plan on making lots of stops along the way. Opt for the shared shuttle instead if you’re on a tight budget, this one is only 175,000 VND ($7 USD).

Of course, the most convenient way to get to Hoi An is by booking a private transfer. You can use the Grab app to book a ride when you arrive (Grab is the Uber of Southeast Asia), or you can prebook a transfer, such as this one. These options will cost around 375,000 VND ($15 USD).

Where to Stay in Hoi An

Choosing a hotel in Hoi An can be an overwhelming task. There are almost too many highly-rated hotels to choose from! Our biggest tip is to choose a hotel within 3/4 of a mile from the town’s center. Be sure to read lots of reviews, make sure breakfast is included with your stay, and pay attention to the size of the room you’re booking.

We stayed at the Hotel Royal Hoi An – MGallery, and we can’t recommend it enough. It’s clean, modern, convenient, and within walking distance of nearly everything. And the daily breakfast buffet is to die for! Cao Lau for breakfast? Yes, please!

We stayed in the Grand Deluxe King Room. We had a gorgeous balcony with a river view and a clawfoot tub that screamed romance. We did pay a bit more to have breakfast included in our stay, but it was one hundred percent worth it. We filled up on so much food each morning that we often made it to dinner before feeling hungry again.

➡️Click Here For More Hoi An Hotels

How to Get Around Hoi An

Getting around Hoi An is very easy. Because of the town’s small size and concentration of attractions, the most common ways for tourists to explore are on foot or by bicycle. Bicycles are available to rent from most hotels, guesthouses, and local rental shops. And walking through Ancient Town is an intimate way to soak in the local culture and architecture.

For longer distances or when traveling outside of the town center, taxis and tuk-tuks are a popular choice. Both are readily available and can easily be arranged through your hotel or hailed on the street. Grab is also a popular option. Grab is the Uber of Southeast Asia. With Grab, you can pay with a credit card through the app or pay with cash.

_💣 _{Antisocial Tourist Tip — We know motorbikes are a popular mode of transportation in Vietnam, but we do not recommend renting, driving, or riding them unless you’re a local}_{. A significant number of motorbike accidents occur in Vietnam every day.}

Thank you for reading our post! We hope it helps you plan the perfect trip! Check out our other guides here and follow us on Instagram (@AntisocialTourist) or on Facebook to see our latest adventures!