Hoi An is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its lantern-lit streets, ancient architecture and peaceful riverside charm. With its welcoming atmosphere, diverse activities and delicious cuisine, Hoi An is an ideal destination for families seeking both adventure and relaxation.

A family holiday in Hoi An can be filled with hands-on activities, beach outings and local culinary delights that both kids and adults will enjoy. These 7 must-try experiences will help your family create lasting memories together.

Plan your perfect family holiday in Hoi An with Hanoi Voyages. Let us craft a journey full of joy, comfort and discovery.

Family trip to Hoi An: 7 best activities not to be missed

A Hoi An family trip promises a perfect mix of cultural discovery, outdoor fun and hands-on experiences. With its peaceful atmosphere and variety of kid-friendly activities, Hoi An is an ideal destination for families. Here are 7 best activities you shouldn’t miss.

Stroll the Hoi An Ancient Town

No family holiday in Hoi An is complete without a walk through its enchanting Ancient Town. With lantern-lit streets, colorful shophouses and car-free alleys, it’s a safe and magical place for children to explore. 

Families can visit the Japanese Covered Bridge, peek into heritage homes, or simply enjoy a refreshing sugarcane juice from a street vendor. The slow pace and welcoming atmosphere make it easy for both parents and kids to soak up the town’s unique charm. Don’t forget to snap some family photos under the glowing lanterns in the evening – an unforgettable highlight of your trip.

Try your hand at lantern-making workshop

One of the most memorable experiences during a family trip to Vietnam, especially in Hoi An, is joining a traditional lantern-making workshop. This hands-on activity allows both children and parents to get creative while learning about one of Hoi An’s most iconic symbols. 

Kids will love choosing their favorite colors and fabrics, assembling the frame and decorating their own lanterns with the help of friendly local artisans. It’s a fun, interactive way to explore Vietnamese culture and the finished lanterns make for meaningful souvenirs to take home.

Ride a basket boat in the coconut forest

A highlight of any Hoi An family trip, the basket boat ride through Bay Mau Coconut Forest offers a unique blend of nature, culture and fun for all ages.

Kids will be thrilled by the exciting boat spinning performances, spotting crabs among the water plants and watching local fishermen cast their nets. The experience is both relaxing and entertaining, making it a perfect outdoor activity for families.

💸 Tickets are affordable, typically ranging from $4 to $6 USD per boat, while guided tours with added extras like folk performances or crab fishing demonstrations can cost around $9 USD per person. 

Relax on Hoi An beaches

A Hoi An family trip wouldn’t be complete without some beach time. The town’s coastline is calm, clean and perfect for kids to swim or play in the sand. Here are a few great spots for families:

• An Bang Beach – Popular and lively with gentle waves, restaurants and sunbeds for rent. Ideal for a full day by the sea. Many spots offer lounge chairs and umbrellas for rent, making it a comfortable place to relax while the kids play.
• Cua Dai Beach – Quieter, with wide sandy stretches and clear waters with fewer crowds. Early mornings and late afternoons are ideal for a family swim or a beachside picnic.

Watch cultural shows in Hoi An

Adding a cultural show to your family holiday in Hoi An is a great way to enjoy local traditions in a fun and engaging way. Hoi An offers a variety of performances that captivate both kids and adults, from music and dance to storytelling and visual spectacles.

• The most famous is the Hoi An Memories Show, a large-scale outdoor performance with hundreds of dancers, impressive lighting and vivid storytelling about the town’s history. It’s visually stunning and easy for children to follow
• Other options include traditional folk music, Cham dance performances, or water puppet shows, often held in small theaters around the Old Town.

Visit local markets and try iconic dishes in Hoi An

A visit to Hoi An Central Market is a must during your family holiday in Hoi An. Located by the riverside, this lively market offers a feast for the senses – perfect for families wanting to experience local life and Hoi An cuisine together.

Here, you can sample some of Hoi An’s most iconic dishes:

• Cao lầu – A signature noodle dish with thick noodles, slices of pork, fresh herbs and crispy toppings.
• Bánh mì Hội An – Crusty baguettes filled with meat, pickled veggies and local sauces – kids love the flavor and crunch.
• Fresh spring rolls (gỏi cuốn) – Light, healthy and fun to eat.
• Bánh xèo – Crispy Vietnamese pancakes stuffed with shrimp, pork and bean sprouts.
• Coconut ice cream – A refreshing treat to end your food adventure.

Take a bike or cyclo ride in Hoi An

Exploring the peaceful streets and scenic countryside by bike or cyclo is a relaxing and fun way to enjoy your family trip to Hoi An. The Ancient Town’s car-free zones are perfect for slow, family-friendly rides where kids can safely take in the charming surroundings.

Cyclo rides offer a nostalgic experience, allowing parents and children to sit back and enjoy the sights while a local driver pedals you through narrow alleys, lantern-filled streets and riverside views. For more active families, renting bikes to explore nearby villages like Tra Que or ride along the rice paddies adds a sense of adventure to your day.

How many days to visit Hoi An with kids

Planning the right amount of time for your trip to Hoi An with kids can make all the difference. While Hoi An is a small town, it offers a wide range of family-friendly activities – from cultural workshops and beach time to countryside adventures.

Explore Hoi An in 1 day

• Take a charming stroll through Hoi An’s ancient town, once a bustling trading port.
• As the sun sets over Hoi An’s old port, enjoy a quiet walk and watch the town come alive with the warm glow of countless lanterns.
• Prepare to be amazed by a spectacular show featuring acrobatic artists balancing on towering bamboo poles, all set to live tribal rhythms. A truly unique experience, honored by UNESCO as cultural heritage.
• Take a peaceful ride through Cam Thanh Water Coconut Village aboard a traditional basket boat, expertly steered by a local rower to glide along quiet waterways, surrounded by lush palm groves and the gentle, swaying rhythm of the boat – creating a calm and joyful moment for the whole family.

Explore Hoi An in 2 days

Day 1: The same itinerary of Hoi An in 1 day 

Day 2: Visit to My Son and Hands-on

Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1999, My Son was once the religious heart of the Indianized Cham people until the 12th century. Depart in the morning for this historic site and explore its atmospheric ruins, where Hindu and Buddhist influences blend in the remaining stone temples. Though only part of the complex has withstood time and war, its setting and spiritual aura remain deeply moving.

In the afternoon, return to Hoi An and enjoy some relaxing free time by the beach – perfect for unwinding after a morning of cultural discovery.

Family hotels in Hoi An: Where to stay for your trip

Hoi An offers a wide range of family-friendly accommodations – from budget-friendly guesthouses to mid-range boutique hotels and luxurious beach resorts. Let’s explore the best stays for your family trip to Hoi An, based on your travel style and budget.

Budget hotels for Hoi An family trip

Hoi An offers plenty of affordable hotels that are comfortable, clean and conveniently located. These budget-friendly options are perfect for families looking to enjoy a memorable Hoi An family trip without stretching the travel budget.

Recommended family hotels in Hoi An for budget travelers:

• Senvila Boutique Hoi An Resort & Spa
• Little Hoi An – A Boutique Hotel & Spa

Mid-range hotels for Hoi An family trip

For families seeking a balance between comfort and value, Hoi An’s mid-range hotels are a great choice. With spacious rooms, pools and family-friendly services, these hotels offer a relaxing and enjoyable stay for your Hoi An family trip without breaking the bank.

Recommended family hotels in Hoi An for mid-range budget travelers:

• Lantana Boutique Hoian Hotel
• Emerald Hoi An Riverside Resort
• Victoria Hoi An Beach Resort

Luxury hotels for Hoi An family trip

For a truly relaxing and indulgent experience, luxury hotels are the perfect choice for family holidays in Hoi An. These resorts offer elegant rooms, kid-friendly facilities and exceptional service – giving your family the space and comfort to unwind in style.

Recommended family hotels in Hoi An for luxury travelers:

• Four Seasons Resort
• Anantara Hoi An Resort
• Almanity Hoi An

From lantern-making workshops to basket boat rides and beach days, a family holiday in Hoi An offers the perfect mix of culture, fun and relaxation for all ages. With so many engaging activities to enjoy together, Hoi An promises memories your family will cherish for years to come.

Discover more destinations and travel stories that help families experience Vietnam in meaningful ways.

>>> Family trip to Hanoi: Top experiences you must try

>>> Family holiday in Halong Bay: 9 best things to do

>>> Family vacation in Ho Chi Minh city: What to see & do