Hoi An Ancient Town is considered one of the top cultural destinations in Asia, attracting hundreds of thousands of visitors each year. Beyond exploring its historic architecture, lantern-lit streets, and vibrant artistic spaces, Hoi An is also an ideal destination for a Hoi An motorbike trip. The routes around the ancient town, winding through villages, rice fields, and coastal beaches, provide riders with a fun, adventurous and unforgettable experience.
1. Hoi An – A charming ancient town in Vietnam
Location and Overview
Hoi An Ancient Town is located along the lower reaches of the Thu Bon River in Quang Nam Province, about 30 km southwest of central Da Nang. To the east, it borders the East Sea, to the west lies Dien Ban District and to the south is Duy Xuyen District.
Historically, it was known as Hoai Pho and later Faifo by Portuguese merchants, with the name “Hoi An” becoming widely used from the 17th century. Its prime location along the river and near the coast made Hoi An a bustling trade center in the past.
History
Built in the early 16th century, Hoi An was once an international trading port, serving merchants from Japan, China and Western countries. Over the centuries, the town experienced numerous historical events, from the Mac Dynasty and Nguyen Hoang’s rule to the Nguyen Dynasty’s isolationist policies.
Despite these changes, Hoi An has preserved its unique cultural character. In 1999, it was officially recognized by UNESCO as a World Cultural Heritage Site, becoming a major attraction for both domestic and international travelers.
Key features
Hoi An Ancient Town is renowned for its harmonious and traditional architecture. Moss-covered tiled roofs, ancient brick pathways, and long rows of trees create a peaceful, poetic, and yet intimate atmosphere.
Despite the passage of hundreds of years, Hoi An retains its old-world charm, making it an ideal place to admire historic architecture, experience local culture, and immerse in the traditional lifestyle of its residents.
2. Unique weather in Hoi An
Season | Description |
Summer (May – September) | Average temperature: 30–35°C (86–95°F). Warm and humid, with occasional short thunderstorms. Lush green landscapes, but motorbike travel may be challenging during rain. |
Cool, dry season (October – April) | Average temperature: 20–28°C (68–82°F). Comfortable weather, clear skies, ideal for outdoor activities and motorbike trips. Evenings are perfect for enjoying the famous lantern-lit streets. |
3. Best time for a motorbike adventure in Hoi An
Not only in Hoi An but also in other provinces, the dry season (from February to August each year) is always the ideal time for any trip, exploration or relaxation.
Soft sunlight drapes over Hoi An’s ancient town, creating a truly poetic scene.
In Hoi An, the dry season features an average temperature of around 33°C. The weather is sunny and beautiful, the sky is clear with few clouds, and it is not affected by rain or storms.
4. Scenic Vietnam motorbike routes around Hoi An
From Hanoi to Hoi An
- Route: Hanoi → Hoi An (QL1A / Ho Chi Minh Highway)
- Stops: Ninh Binh → Thanh Hoa → Vinh → Dong Hoi → Hue → Hoi An
- Highlights: Trang An, Phong Nha – Ke Bang, Imperial City of Hue, Hai Van Pass
- Route: Hanoi → Hoi An (Via Northern Highlands + Dong Van, Meo Vac)
- Stops: Hanoi → Cao Bang → Dong Van → Meo Vac → Hoi An
- Highlights: Ha Giang limestone plateau, terraced rice fields, Nho Que River
From Ho Chi Minh to Hoi An
- Route: Ho Chi Minh City → Hoi An (QL1A / Coastal Route)
- Stops: Ho Chi Minh City → Phan Thiet → Nha Trang → Quy Nhon → Phu Yen → Hoi An
- Highlights: Mui Ne, Nha Trang beaches, Ghenh Da Dia, coastal scenery
- Route: Ho Chi Minh City → Hoi An (Via Central Highlands / Buon Ma Thuot – Kon Tum)
- Stops: Ho Chi Minh City → Buon Ma Thuot → Kon Tum → Quang Ngai → Hoi An
- Highlights: Central Highlands, Dray Nur Waterfall, An Khe Pass, pristine mountain landscapes
5. What to see and do in Hoi An on a motorbike?
Explore ancient town
Riding through Hoi An Ancient Town on a motorbike is a perfect way to start your adventure. You can park your bike and stroll through the lantern-lit streets, visiting iconic landmarks like the Japanese Covered Bridge, historic houses, and bustling local markets. This area offers a unique glimpse into the town’s centuries-old culture and architecture.
Take a boat ride on the Hoai River
A must-do experience is taking a boat ride along the Hoai River to admire the ancient town illuminated at night. You can also release lanterns on the river, wishing for peace and good luck for yourself and your family.
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Drifting on a small boat along the Hoai River, feeling the slow rhythm of Hoi An’s ancient town.
Cycle to nearby villages
Hoi An is surrounded by charming villages that are easily accessible by motorbike. At Tra Que Vegetable Village, you can learn traditional farming techniques and enjoy fresh local herbs. Meanwhile, Cam Thanh Coconut Village offers the chance to ride basket boats through coconut palm forests, giving you a close-up experience of local life and natural scenery.
Hit the beaches
A motorbike makes it easy to reach Hoi An’s beautiful beaches. An Bang Beach and Cua Dai Beach are ideal spots to relax, swim, or enjoy fresh seafood at beachfront restaurants. These rides also allow you to explore quiet coastal lanes and stop whenever a scenic view catches your eye.
6. Discover Hoi An with a guided Vietnam motorbike tour
Frontier Travel Vietnam is a company specializing in Vietnam motorbike tours, offering a team of professional local guides with in-depth knowledge of each region. Here are some featured Vietnam motorbike tours you can choose from, with different departure dates available to fit your schedule.
Departure Date | Tour Name | Departure Point | Duration | Price |
24Th February - 9Th March, 2026 | 14-Day Journey Through Vietnam: North To South Adventure Along The Ho Chi Minh Trail | Hanoi | 14 days | From $3.150 |
29Th March - 11Th April, 2026 | Hanoi | 14 days | From $3.150 | |
10Th–23Rd Sept 2026 | 14 Days Across Vietnam: Epic North–South Ride On The Ho Chi Minh Trail | Hanoi | 14 days | From $3.290 |
A Hoi An motorbike trip is the perfect way to combine adventure and cultural exploration. From winding village roads to peaceful beaches and vibrant streets, every moment on the bike brings new sights and experiences, leaving you with lasting memories of this charming town.
FAQs
1. What is the best time for a motorbike trip in Hoi An?The dry season (February - August) is ideal.
2. Where can I visit in Hoi An on a motorbike?Ancient Town, Tra Que Vegetable Village, Cam Thanh Coconut Village, An Bang/Cua Dai Beaches.
3. Can beginners ride a motorbike in Hoi An?Yes, most routes around the town and countryside are beginner-friendly.
4. Do I need a license to ride a motorbike in Hoi An?Yes, an international or Vietnamese motorbike license is required.
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