Romantic Things To Do In Hoi An For An Unforgettable Getaway

Colourful boats on the river in Hoi An, a perfect spot for romantic things to do in Hoi An

Hội An has a way of slowing things down, making it easy for couples to enjoy simple moments. Lanterns glow over the river, narrow streets lead to hidden cafés, and the scent of fresh herbs drifts from open-air kitchens. The town’s peaceful atmosphere makes it easy to unwind, away from the rush of everyday life. Strolling through the Ancient Town or cycling past rice paddies, every experience feels unhurried. With so many romantic things to do in Hội An, every corner offers something for couples to experience.

9 Romantic Things To Do In Hội An

Here are romantic things to do in Hội An that couples will enjoy, from lantern-lit boat rides to scenic cycling:

1. Lantern Boat Ride On The Thu Bồn River

An image of Thu Bồn River, one of the places for romantic things to do in Hội An

Photo: Dennis G. Jarvis / Wikimedia Commons

As the sun sets, the Thu Bồn River fills with small wooden boats carrying visitors through the calm waters. Many boats are rowed by locals who guide them past the glowing lanterns that line the riverbanks. Vendors sell paper lanterns with small candles inside, and couples often release them onto the water, watching as they float away. The gentle rocking of the boat, the soft light reflecting on the water, and the quiet sounds of paddles moving through the river create a relaxed atmosphere, making it an easy way to enjoy the evening together.

Location: Bạch Đằng Street or Nguyễn Phúc Chu Street, Hội An
Timings: 6 PM – 9 PM
Price: For 1 – 3 people: $6 / ₹500; For 4 – 5 people: $8 / ₹670

2. Walk Through Hội An Ancient Town At Night

An image of Hội An at night, showing lantern-lit streets and warmly glowing shopfronts.

Photo: katiebordner / Wikimedia Commons

At night, Hội An’s Ancient Town becomes lively with streetlights, lanterns, and busy markets. The streets are lined with old buildings, many with wooden balconies and yellow walls that glow under the lights. Shops sell silk scarves, handmade jewellery, and traditional Vietnamese clothing. Street vendors prepare fresh snacks, filling the air with the smell of grilled meats and herbs. Musicians perform in small courtyards, and coffee shops stay open late. Walking through the town, couples can explore small alleys, visit old houses, or stop for a drink by the river, making it an easygoing and interesting evening.

Location: From the Japanese Covered Bridge to the Central Market
Timings: 6 PM – 10 PM
Price:Heritage Site – $5 / ₹415

3. Visit The Japanese Covered Bridge

An image of the Japanese Covered Bridge in Hội An, featuring its iconic wooden structure

Photo: David McKelvey / Wikimedia Commons

The Japanese Covered Bridge, built centuries ago, connects two sides of Hội An’s Old Town. Its wooden roof, carved decorations, and small temple in the centre make it one of the town’s most recognisable spots. The bridge is usually quiet in the evening, offering a short break from the busier streets nearby. Couples walking through can see the mix of Japanese and Vietnamese design in the details, from the tiled roof to the wooden beams. Nearby, small cafés and market stalls provide places to sit and enjoy the view of the river and passing boats.

Location: Nguyễn Thị Minh Khai Street, Hội An Ancient Town
Timings: 7 AM – 9 PM
Price:Included in the Hội An Old Town ticket: $5 / ₹415

4. Tailor-Make Outfits For Each Other

A woman in a pink dress on a boat in Hoi An, one of the romantic things to do in Hoi An.

Photo: Sang Tran / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only

Hội An is known for its tailor shops, where visitors can get custom-made clothing within a day or two. Inside the shops, fabrics in different colours and textures cover the walls, and tailors take quick measurements before sketching designs. Many couples choose outfits for each other, selecting styles and materials that match their preferences. Fittings happen throughout the day, with small adjustments made to ensure a good fit. By the end of the process, they leave with personalised clothing, making it a fun and interactive experience that also serves as a keepsake from the trip.

Location: Various tailor shops in Hội An
Timings: 9 AM – 9 PM
Price:Starts at $30 / ₹2,500 per outfit

5. Enjoy A Riverside Dinner

A dessert with ice cream and chocolate cake served with a cold drink on the table.

Photo: Artem Beliaikin / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only

Hội An’s riverfront restaurants offer a relaxed setting with views of the water and passing boats. Many have outdoor seating, where lanterns hang above wooden tables, casting a soft glow over the dishes. The menu often includes local specialities like cao lầu, white rose dumplings, and grilled seafood. The sounds of the river mix with quiet conversations and occasional music from street performers nearby. With the cool evening breeze and the steady movement of boats in the background, couples can enjoy a quiet meal while watching the town’s lights reflect on the water.

Location: Restaurants along Nguyễn Phúc Chu Street and Bạch Đằng Street
Timings: 5 PM – 10 PM
Price:$10 – 30 / ₹830 – 2,500 per person

6. Cycle Along Rice Paddies To Cẩm Thanh Village

An image of a rice field, one of the places for romantic things to do in Hội An.

Photo: CEphoto, Uwe Aranas / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

Just outside Hội An, paved and dirt paths lead through wide fields of bright green rice paddies. Bicycles are a common way to explore, with small bridges and narrow roads winding through the farmland. Along the way, small roadside stalls sell fresh coconut water and sugarcane juice, offering a break from the ride. As the path continues, it leads to Cẩm Thanh Village, where wooden houses stand among nipa palm trees, giving a glimpse of traditional rural life near the town.

Location: Hội An tô Cẩm Thanh Village
Timings: 6 AM – 6 PM
Price:Bicycle rental: $2 – 5 / ₹165 – 415 per day

7. Stay In A Traditional Hội An Villa

An image of a boutique villa in Hội An at night, featuring warm exterior lighting.

Photo: An Villa Hoi An / Wikimedia Commons

Boutique villas in Hội An combine old architecture with modern comfort, creating a peaceful place to stay. Many have yellow walls, wooden shutters, and tiled courtyards surrounded by tropical plants. Inside, rooms are decorated with dark wood furniture, lantern-style lighting, and local textiles. Some villas have small pools, while others offer garden spaces where guests can have breakfast outdoors. Many provide bicycles for guests, making it easy to explore nearby streets.

Location: Various boutique villas near Hội An Ancient Town
Timings: Check-in: 2 PM; Check-out: 12 PM
Price:$40 – 150 / ₹3,300 – 12,500 per night

8. Take A Basket Boat Ride In The Bay Mau Coconut Forest

Close-up view of a tall coconut tree with green coconuts and palm leaves against blue sky.

Photo: Pexels / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only

A short ride from Hội An, the Bay Mau Coconut Forest is a network of waterways surrounded by thick clusters of nipa palms. Instead of regular boats, locals use round bamboo basket boats, which float lightly on the water. Guides steer the boats through narrow channels, pointing out local wildlife along the way. Some demonstrate traditional methods, throwing large nets into the water. Others offer quick spins in the boats for those who want a more playful experience. The ride is also a simple way to see a different side of Hội An’s landscape.

Location: Cẩm Thanh Village, 5 km from Hội An
Timings: 7 AM – 5 PM
Price:$5 – 10 / ₹415 – 830 per person

9. Explore The Chàm Islands

An image of the Chàm Islands showing clear blue waters and green hills in Vietnam.

Photo: Wwhyte / Wikimedia Commons

A speedboat from Hội An takes visitors to the Chàm Islands, a group of small, forested islands known for their clear waters and coral reefs. The beaches have white sand and are lined with fishing boats, while the inland paths lead to quiet villages and small temples. Snorkelling spots around the islands reveal colourful fish and coral formations. Beachfront restaurants serve fresh seafood, grilled on open fires, with simple tables overlooking the water.

Location: 18 km off the coast of Hội An, accessible by speedboat
Timings: 8 AM – 3 PM
Price:$30 – 50 / ₹2,500 – 4,200 per person, including boat transfer

Hội An’s mix of history, nature, and culture creates the perfect setting for a memorable getaway. From lantern-lit boat rides to quiet tea ceremonies, every experience brings a chance to slow down and enjoy time together. With so many romantic things to do in Hội An, there’s always something special to discover. Plan your trip with TripXL and explore the best of this beautiful town.

Cover Photo: Supanut Arunoprayote / Wikimedia Commons

Frequently Asked Questions

Couples can join a traditional lantern-making workshop, try a private Vietnamese dessert-tasting tour, or watch a folk music performance at a historic house.
Several spas in Hội An offer couple’s massages in garden settings, while herbal foot baths provide a soothing experience after a day of exploring.
February to April brings cooler temperatures and clear skies, making it ideal for outdoor activities. The months after the rainy season, from late October to December, also offer fewer tourists.
Couples can visit the night market on An Hội Island for handmade crafts, take a moonlit bicycle ride through the rice fields, or listen to live acoustic music at a riverside bar.
Hand-painted lanterns, embroidered silk robes, and personalised leather goods from local artisans make meaningful souvenirs. Specialty teas and handmade ceramics are also popular choices.

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