12 Essential Vietnam Travel Highlights Every First-Time Visitor Must Know

5. Hoi An — lantern-lit streets, tailor shops, and local cuisine

Hoi An’s compact Old Town is famous for its lantern-lit evenings, riverside cafes, and skilled tailors who can make clothes on short notice. It’s also a great place to try central Vietnamese specialities like cao lầu and white rose dumplings. Plan tailored garments with realistic timelines: basic alterations can be quick, but bespoke suits and dresses need at least a couple of days and careful fittings. This town is especially well suited to travellers who like a slower pace and a strong sense of place, as it combines cultural heritage with hands-on experiences like cooking classes and lantern-making workshops. Visit early morning or after sunset to avoid the midday heat and crowds. Hoi An sits near attractive beaches, so you can blend cultural days in the Old Town with restful beach time. When visiting temples and pagodas, wear modest clothing and remove footwear as required. Bargaining is accepted at markets but be polite and keep exchanges friendly—this preserves goodwill and often results in better service.