The Historic Town of Hoi An

Hoi An’s history stretches back some 2,000 years. Over different periods, it has been an important trading port, connecting Vietnam with merchants from China, Japan, and Europe. Today, its preserved old town reflects those influences in architecture, atmosphere, and rhythm of life.

An Estonian we met there told us that, in his opinion, Hoi An is the most beautiful city in Vietnam. After spending some time wandering its lantern-lit streets, we found it hard to disagree.

The old town is full of narrow lanes, wooden houses, temples, and colorful lanterns hanging above the streets. In the evenings, the entire place glows warmly. The night market adds another layer of life — stalls selling souvenirs, street food, and handmade crafts, all under soft lights and constant chatter.

One of the reasons Hoi An became especially memorable for us was Bella — a local we connected with through Couchsurfing. She generously spent three evenings and one afternoon showing us around, making our experience far more personal than it would have been otherwise. Bella worked as a tour guide during the day, which explained her good English and deep knowledge of the area.

With her, we explored various cafés, street food spots, and local restaurants, tasting regional specialties and trying different drinks. She introduced us not just to places, but to the feeling of the town.

One evening, she took us to a bar by the harbor where a band made up of foreign musicians was performing. Sitting there by the water, listening to live music in a historic Vietnamese port town, felt like one of those small travel moments that quietly stay with you.

Hoi An is beautiful in photographs — but even more so in the experiences shared there.