I speak fluent Vietnamese and have traveled to many places in Vietnam, including Hoi An. I understand that finding where to stay in Hoi An as a first-timer can be overwhelming. That’s why, in today’s article, I will help you to find the safe places in Hoi An for first-time visitors.
I will share with you what I believe are the best and safest areas to stay in Hoi An for first-timers and tourists, along with a helpful map. I’ll also share where I stayed in Hoi An and recommend some of the best hotels for various budgets.
Before get into the detail of the main topic, let’s look at some facts about Hoi An:
Hoi An is a beautiful ancient town located on the central coast of Vietnam, about 30 km south of Da Nang. The city is renowned for its well-preserved historic architecture, ancient streets, and a unique blend of different cultural influences.
Hoi An’s history dates back over 2,000 years, and it served as a significant trading port in Southeast Asia during the 15th to 19th centuries. The town’s architecture reflects a mix of indigenous and foreign influences, including Chinese, Japanese, and European styles.
The town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Notable structures include the Japanese Covered Bridge, old merchant houses, and assembly halls.
Hoi An is famous for its lantern-lit nights, especially during the Full Moon Lantern Festival. The town’s streets are adorned with colorful lanterns, creating an amazing atmosphere.
The city is a food lover’s paradise. Famous local dishes are Cao Lau (noodles with pork and local greens), White Rose dumplings, and various types of street food. Many restaurants offer cooking classes where you can learn to prepare these dishes.
It is also renowned for its tailor shops, offering custom-made clothing at reasonable prices. Tourists often visit the town to have clothing, including suits, dresses, and shoes, tailored to their specifications.
The Thu Bon River flows through Hoi An, providing a picturesque setting. The riverside area is dotted with charming cafes, restaurants, and boat tours that offer a different perspective of the town.
Hoi An is close to beautiful beaches, such as An Bang Beach and Cua Dai Beach. You can easily access these sandy shores for relaxation and water activities.
Is Hoi An safe to visit?
Yes, Hoi An, like any other popular tourist destinations in Vietnam, is generally safe to visit. But, being a popular tourist town, there is petty theft and street crime, so it’s always essential to take care of your belongings, be aware of your surroundings, and avoid isolated areas late at night to have a safe trip.
Traffic in Vietnam can be chaotic, so always watch out for vehicles when crossing the road. Follow safety instructions and wear a life jacket when taking boat trips. Also, check the weather before you go, and avoid flooding/typhoons in central Vietnam from late June to August.
Where to stay in Hoi An for the first time?
The best and safest areas to stay in Hoi An for first-timers and tourists are Hoi An Old Town, An Hoi, Cam Pho, Cam Chau, Cam Nam, Cam Thanh, and Cua Dai/ An Bang Beach. Always stay vigilant and take standard safety precautions regardless of your travel destination.
Old Town is the best area for first-time visitors who want to stay in the historic heart of Hoi An. Staying here allows you easy access to the charming streets, lantern-lit evenings, and historic architecture.
For a quieter atmosphere while still having access to the old town, you can consider booking your accommodation in An Hoi, Cam Pho, Cam Chau, and Cam Nam. These areas have their own charm and are only a short walk/ bike ride from the major sights. Many hotels provide free use of bicycles.
Cam Thanh ward is a little farther from the old town. This area offers a more rural/ countryside experience, with opportunities for ecotourism activities like cycling and boat trips.
An Bang Beach/Cua Dai Beach is the best place to stay in Hoi An for beach lovers and those who don’t mind being a bit further away from the Old Town. Many hotels in the beach area offer free shuttle buses to the old town. Grab taxis are also a cheap and convenient way to get around.
On one of my trips to Hoi An, I stayed at Vincent’s House. It was a good value for money accommodation, conveniently located in a secluded alleyway within walking distance from the old town and its major historical attractions. Free bike hire was a bonus and convenient to explore the city.
Below is a map of the popular areas in Hoi An for first-time travelers. You can scroll down to view the live map.
Let’s get into the details of the recommended areas to stay in Hoi An, especially for first-time visitors. I’ll provide you with some suggestions for the best places to stay in each area, catering to every budget.
All hotels in Hoi An have been carefully selected by me from well-known and secure booking sites such as booking.com, with guest review scores of at least 8.0 or higher at the time I chose them.
If you don’t like my suggestions (perhaps they don’t suit your budget or preferences), you can click the “MORE HOTEL DEALS” button where you can choose your own hotel.
7 Safe areas to stay in Hoi An for first-timers and tourists
1. Hoi An Old Town
Hoi An Old Town is the best area to stay in Hoi An for first-timers who want to stay in the heart of the action. It is best suited for those who enjoy exploring on foot, being close to cultural sites, and experiencing the lively atmosphere of the night market.
Hoi An Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, renowned for its well-preserved architecture. The charming streets are lined with ancient houses, temples, and assembly halls.
You’ll be within walking distance of numerous cultural attractions, including the Japanese Covered Bridge, Assembly Halls, and historic merchant houses. The town is rich in history and offers a glimpse into Vietnam’s past.
Hoi An Old Town comes alive in the evening with colorful lanterns, street performances, and a vibrant night market. The town has a relaxed and enchanting atmosphere after dark.
There’s a diverse range of restaurants, cafes, and street food vendors offering local and international cuisine. You can experience authentic Vietnamese dishes and enjoy the riverside dining scene.
Hoi An is famous for its tailor shops, where you can get custom-made clothing. The Old Town has a variety of shops selling handicrafts, lanterns, and unique souvenirs.
The town is situated along the Thu Bon River, and you can take a boat ride to enjoy scenic views or explore nearby islands.
Best places to stay in Hoi An Old Town for first-timers:
Luxury ($$$): Allegro Hoi An . A Little Luxury Hotel & Spa, great 5-star beautiful hotel, located in a quiet area, 5 min walk to the beginning of the old town. They provide free bike usage, free shuttle to the beach, nice pool, and good quality buffet breakfast.
Mid-range ($$): Aman Boutique Hotel, 4-star hotel located in a great nice and quiet area, close to everything, walking distance to the old town. It has an Indoor swimming pool, family rooms, free private parking, currency exchange, and 2 restaurants.
Budget ($): Hoi An Heart Lodge, good value for money sustainable bed and breakfast in a prime location, within walking distance from the popular Historic Museum, Japanese Covered Bridge, and Assembly Hall. It has free parking, soundproof rooms, indoor pool, and a 24-hour front desk.
MORE HOTEL DEALS IN OLD TOWN2. An Hoi
An Hoi is a small island located just across the river from Hoi An Old Town. It provides a peaceful riverside setting, relaxed atmosphere while still being close to the main attractions.
An Hoi has its own night market, which is less crowded than the one in Hoi An Old Town. Here, you can shop for souvenirs, clothing, and handicrafts in a more laid-back environment.
Best places to stay in An Hoi for first-time tourists:
Luxury ($$$): RiverTown Hoi An Resort & Spa, 5-star beautiful hotel centrally located in a tranquil place on An Hoi island near the old town. It has free parking, daily scheduled shuttle bus to An Bang beach, free bicycles to use, exceptional breakfast, and airport transfer.
Mid-range ($$): La An Central Boutique Villa, 4-star lovely sustainable villa located in a central area next to the night markets. Easy to walk to Hoi An old town. The rooms are spacious, the beds are comfortable, and breakfast is delicious and varied.
Budget ($): Hoi An Riverland Villa – Hoi An Center, 3-star homey accommodation, good location to catch the lanterns, old town, and night markets. It has bike rental services, 24-hour front desk, and tour desk.
MORE HOTEL DEALS IN HOI AN3. Cam Pho
Cam Pho is a popular neighborhood located just west of the Old Town and next to the Thu Bon river. It is a great base for those who want to be close to the heart of Hoi An’s attractions while enjoying a slightly quieter environment.
Cam Pho offers a mix of traditional Vietnamese life and the tourist experience. Staying in this area can provide a more authentic feel of daily life, with local markets and street scenes.
Best places to stay in Hoi An in Cam Pho for first-timers:
Luxury ($$$): Cozy Savvy Boutique Hotel Hoi An, 5-star hotel located in a peaceful area, on the edge of town, 10 mins walk away. It has a nice rooftop pool, a gym, and good breakfast with a wide selection of dishes.
Mid-range ($$): Laluna Hoi An Riverside Hotel & Spa, 4-star accommodation in a nice quiet area within walking distance from the old town. The pool area is nice and clean with free towels. It features wonderful breakfast, free bikes, outdoor pool, garden, and a terrace.
Budget ($): Hoi An Vi Khoa Villa, good accommodation, just a short walk from the old town area and the riverside, away from the crowds and noise. Rooms are airy, spacious and have a balcony. It has a private beach area, free private parking, and family rooms.
MORE HOTEL DEALS IN CAM PHO4. Cam Chau
Cam Chau is a huge ward located between the ancient town and Hoi An beach. Staying in Cam Chau allows you to experience a more local side of Hoi An. Great base if you want a quiet area, you rent a motorbike, you like cycling to explore the city, or using Grab Taxi to get around.
Best places to stay in Hoi An in Cam Chau for tourists:
Luxury ($$$): Little Riverside Hoi An . A Luxury Hotel & Spa, 5-star riverfront hotel located in a quiet area, close to the Old Town. The hotel has a 24-hour front desk, free use of bicycles, paid airport shuttle services, and family rooms. You can enjoy beautiful sunset views over the river from its swimming pool.
Mid-range ($$): Little Town Villa, lovely accommodation located within a short walk/ bike ride to the old town, many cafes and restaurants. You can use bikes for free to explore the area. It has a sun terrace, a 24-hour front desk, free parking, and comfortable air-conditioning rooms.
Budget ($): ZEN Boutique Hoi An, great 3-star hotel conveniently located on Ly Thuong Kiet street, in a quiet area, 10 mins walk from the city center. You can borrow a bike from the hotel to explore An Bang Beach. Quiet at night, you can hear the frogs singing in the rice fields.
MORE HOTEL DEALS IN CAM CHAU5. An Bang Beach/ Cua Dai Beach
Staying at An Bang Beach or Cua Dai Beach is an excellent choice for those who prioritize beach activities, sunsets, and a tranquil environment.
An Bang Beach and Cua Bai Beach are known for their white sandy shores and turquoise waters. You can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and water sports like paddleboarding, and beach volleyball
There are numerous beachfront restaurants and bars where you can enjoy seafood, Vietnamese cuisine, and refreshing drinks while taking in ocean views.
An Bang Beach and Cua Dai Beach are a bit farther from Hoi An Old Town, and transportation is needed to reach the town center. Grab taxis are plentiful, and many hotels offer free transfer to the old town.
Best places to stay in Hoi An Beach for first-time travelers:
Luxury ($$$): Palm Garden Beach Resort & Spa, 5-star beachfront hotel located close to An Bang Beach, good place to relax with a private beach. The resort has a free shuttle service to the Ancient Town.
Mid-range ($$): Sea’lavie Boutique Resort & Spa, 4-star beautiful beachfront accommodation located right next to An Bang Beach, 15 mins walk from Cua Dai Beach. It has free bikes, free parking, a garden, an outdoor pool, a tour desk and currency exchange.
Budget ($): Angel Garden Villa, 3-star beachfront hotel located in a quiet, secluded area within 10 mins walk from Cua Dai Beach, featuring free bikes, an indoor pool and a shared kitchen. Good base if you want a quiet, peaceful beach holiday. You can use Grab taxi to get to An Bang Beach and Old Town.
MORE HOTEL DEALS IN AN BANG/ CUA DAI BEACH6. Cam Thanh
Cam Thanh is a great destination for ecotourism activities. Cam Thanh is a rural village in Hoi An, known for its coconut palm groves and tranquil countryside setting.
You can explore the village’s lush landscapes, ride bicycles through the coconut groves, and take part in boat tours through the coconut palm forest.
The village is renowned for its traditional basket boat tours, where you can experience local fishing techniques and navigate through narrow waterways.
Cam Thanh offers a serene and peaceful environment away from the hustle and bustle of the more touristy areas. It’s an ideal choice for those seeking a tranquil escape.
Best places to stay in Hoi An in Cam Thanh for tourists:
Mid-range ($$): Zen Retreat Hoi An, 4-star little gem accommodation in a very peaceful area 10 mins drive from the old town. The rooms are spacious and the bed comfortable. Daily access to Hoi An via free shuttle twice a day. You can use their free bike to explore its surroundings.
Mid-range ($$): Hoi An Coco River Resort & Spa, great 4-star accommodation situated along Thu Bon River in Quang Nam Province, 15 mins Grab taxi to the old town. It has an outdoor pool, free bikes, a nice restaurant with a river view, and beautifully decorated rooms. The hotel can help organize motorbike rental, coconut boat tour and airport taxi.
Mid-range ($$): Hoi An Eco Lodge & Spa, 4-star lodge located in Cam Thanh, a wonderful countryside area outside of Hoi An old Town. Great base for a relaxing holiday. It has a nice pool and lovely breakfast with a lot of options.
MORE HOTEL DEALS IN CAM THANH7. Cam Nam
Cam Nam is a neighborhood located just south of Hoi An Old Town, separated by the Thu Bon River. It is within walking or cycling distance to Hoi An Old Town. You can easily access the town’s attractions, markets, and historical sites.
The neighborhood is situated along the river, offering scenic views. You can enjoy peaceful walks along the riverbanks and take in the serene atmosphere.
Best places to stay in Cam Nam for tourists:
Luxury ($$$): Bay Resort Hoi An, 5-star hotel located in Cam Nam Ward, just over the bridge from the ancient town, an ideal base to explore the old town. Rooms are modern and clean.
Mid-range ($$): Hoi An Memories Resort & Spa, 4-star lovely resort with a good location in the middle of a little island connected via two bridges. close to the old town.
Budget ($): iHome Hoi An, 3-star accommodation in a good location, 10 mins walk from the night market, featuring outdoor swimming pool, family rooms, free parking, and wonderful breakfast.
MORE HOTEL DEALS IN CAM NAMIn conclusion, The Old Town, An Hoi, Cam Chau, Cam Pho, An Bang/Cua Dai Beach, Cam Thanh, and Cam Nam are the best places to stay in Hoi An for first-timers and tourists. These are generally safe areas that offers easy access to a variety of tourist attractions and amenities.
Regardless of the neighborhood you stay in Hoi An, it’s always essential to take standard precautions, take care of your belongings, and monitor local media for bad weather to have a safe trip.
You can continue reading other popular tourist destinations in Vietnam in these articles:
- Best places to stay in Vietnam first time
- Best places to stay in Hanoi first time
- Best places to stay in Ho Chi Minh City first time
- Best places to stay in Da Nang for first time
- Best places to stay in Dalat for first time
- Best places to stay in Hue for first time
- Best places to stay in Nha Trang for first time
There you have it, my recommendations for the most popular and safest neighborhoods that you can stay during your first trip to Hoi An. I hope you enjoyed my article and find it both informative and helpful.
If you have any questions or would like to share your thoughts, please don’t hesitate to leave a comment below. Your feedback is invaluable and helps me continue to create more quality content.