What’s beautiful in Hoi An nightlife? 7 unmissable experiences

If Hoi An during the day is as gentle as an ancient silk piece, then Hoi An nightlife possesses a mysterious charm with the shimmering lights of lanterns, the lively sounds of folk songs, and the fragrance of street food wafting through the air. If you’re curious about this magical beauty, join Hoi An Royal Beachfront Villas to explore the unique experiences that only appear when night falls in the article below.

What’s special about Hoi An after sunset?

Hoi An after sunset offers unforgettable experiences, and it’s easy to see why it’s among the things that make Hoi An famous:

• The golden sunlight at day’s end reflecting on the river, creating a vivid, shimmering painting like silk, bringing new life to the ancient town and the river.
• A moment when the old town becomes tranquil, allowing visitors to feel the peace as they stroll through quiet streets and admire time-worn heritage houses.
• Lanterns in all colors being lit, reflecting on the river and forming a magical scene, sparkling like a galaxy on earth.
• The sight of floating flower lanterns released on the Hoai River, painting a poetic and sparkling scene that brings a serene, romantic feeling.
• The chance to enjoy impressive cultural performances and local specialties in a calm space, far from the noise of big cities.

Unmissable experiences in Hoi An at night 

Strolling the Ancient Town and Admiring lanterns

At nightfall, Hoi An Ancient Town transforms into a magical and shimmering place, with thousands of colorful lanterns hanging along streets, heritage houses, and Chua Cau. The soft glow of lanterns creates a space that feels both historic and romantic, making the tiled streets lively and nostalgic.

Visitors can walk along famous streets like Nguyen Thai Hoc, Bach Dang, or near Chua Cau, where lantern reflections shimmer on the Hoai River. This poetic scene is especially popular with young travelers and serves as the perfect check-in spot.

On the 14th day of each lunar month and during the Mid-Autumn Festival, the ancient town hosts a Hoi An lantern festival, with intricate lanterns lighting up the entire area. It’s a time for both tourists and locals to enjoy a vibrant, festive atmosphere together.

Besides admiring the lights, you can also try making traditional lanterns or purchase them as souvenirs to bring home a unique cultural touch from Hoi An.

Releasing floating lanterns on the Hoai river

One of the most memorable experiences in nightlife in Hoi An is releasing floating lanterns on the Hoai River. For just around 10,000 VND, you can send off small, glowing lanterns drifting along the water, carrying wishes for peace and good fortune for yourself and your loved ones.

You can release lanterns from the riverbank or rent a small boat to both admire the old town glowing in lantern light and place your lanterns onto the river. The quiet surroundings, gentle waves, and glowing reflections create a sacred and romantic ambiance.

This activity also allows you to immerse in Hoi An’s traditional culture. While exploring, you might hear historical tales, enjoy folk music performances, or simply lose yourself in the peaceful flow of the Hoai River at night.

Exploring Hoi An night market

Hoi An Night Market is a lively and colorful destination every time the city lights up. Located in the heart of the ancient town, it features hundreds of stalls selling lanterns, embroidered paintings, ceramics, and handmade jewelry – a space full of Hoi An charm and creative inspiration.

Walking among the stalls, you’ll feel the warmth of friendly greetings and the simple calls of local vendors. Street art performances and folk games add to the vibrant atmosphere.

Beyond shopping, the night market is also the perfect place to enjoy Hoi An’s signature street foods. Delicious snacks combined with the rhythm of old-town nightlife make this an unforgettable experience.

Enjoying Hoi An’s signature cuisine

Hoi An nightlife cuisine is an unmissable highlight, offering a variety of flavorful specialties rich in tradition and crafted with finesse. Some must-try dishes include:

• Cao Lau: A specialty noodle dish unique to Hoi An, with golden noodles, crispy roast pork, fresh herbs, and rich broth. 
• Quang Noodles: A bowl of soft noodles in a savory broth, served with shrimp, pork, quail eggs, and fresh vegetables.
• White Rose: Soft, thin dumplings filled with seasoned shrimp and pork, usually served in a cozy setting.
• Wet Rice Rolls with Grilled Meat: A popular street food with fragrant grilled skewered meat, soft rice paper, herbs, and signature dipping sauce.
• Grilled Skewers, Grilled Banana Cake, Corn Dessert: A variety of affordable and tasty night snacks loved by young visitors exploring the old town. 

Several top-rated eateries open late, such as Ba Le (49/3 Tran Hung Dao), The Streets Hoi An – Grill & Beer (134A Ly Thai To), and Cao lau – hu tieu Ong Ty (71 Phan Chu Trinh), offer a full-flavored Hoi An culinary experience in the evening.

Watching traditional art performances

Hoi An nightlife is also where you can enjoy traditional art performances that embody the cultural identity of Central Vietnam. A standout is bai choi, held nightly in the square near Chua Cau or along the Hoai River on Nguyen Phuc Chu street.

Besides bai choi, you can join or watch traditional folk singing classes of Southern Central Vietnam at 106 Bach Dang, near Chua Cau. These evening classes allow you to listen to the dan nguyet (moon lute), enjoy sweet folk melodies, and gain deeper insights into Hoi An’s folk culture.

Joining folk games and cultural activities

In areas like An Hoi roundabout, 138 Tran Phu, Kazik Park, or along the Hoai River, you can take part in traditional folk games such as:

• Blindfolded pot smasher: A blindfolded game where players try to break clay pots hung above. The cheers and laughter create a fun, lively atmosphere.
• Human flag: A chess-like game where people become life-sized chess pieces on a giant board.
• Bai choi: Not only for watching, you can participate to win small prizes like Hoi An lanterns – a unique blend of music, game, and chance.
• Folk singing class: If you love folk culture, join a vocal class and immerse yourself in melodic folk tunes.

These activities run daily from 7 PM to 9 PM, are completely free, and provide the perfect opportunity to join in Hoi An’s vibrant night scene.

Relaxing at Cafés and Bars with Live Music

Hoi An at night is more than glowing lanterns and a sparkling old town—it’s also the ideal time to unwind in musical spaces. Whether you enjoy calm, emotional settings or energetic, lively vibes, Hoi An has a spot for you.

If you prefer a quiet evening, visit cafés with acoustic music. The gentle guitar and heartfelt vocals offer a relaxing atmosphere, ideal for intimate conversations or soaking in the slow rhythm of the ancient town.

Conversely, for more lively energy, head to bars in Hoi An’s center. With live music, nightly DJs, and creative cocktails, these are perfect for social gatherings and enjoying a vibrant nightlife.

Beyond the old town, you can also unwind in a beachfront setting at Hoi An Royal Beachfront Villas, located by An Bang beach.

Here, enjoy drinks and chill music at the Chill Sky Bar rooftop, or relax by the pool with gentle tunes at the Beach Pool Bar and Ruou Poolside Bar. The open spaces, sea view, and soothing music create a relaxing and memorable evening.

Suggested accommodation after exploring Hoi An at night

After strolling through the old town, enjoying food, or sipping cocktails at lively bars, you may want a quiet, comfortable place to rest and recharge. One of the top options is Hoi An Royal Beachfront Villas – a luxury villa resort right on peaceful An Bang Beach.

The resort includes 69 private villas, each with its own pool and modern Mediterranean-style design. Interior tones of white, blue, and gray create an elegant, cozy ambiance. Each villa has a balcony or large window, offering natural light and stunning sea views.

Additional exceptional amenities include:

• A large outdoor swimming pool and infinity pool with ocean view; private beach within the premises

• Diverse dining options at Royal Café & Restaurant and The Royal Shore Restaurant in a refined setting
• Professional spa services, workshops like cooking classes, coffee brewing, and Tai Chi lessons

• Indoor and outdoor kids’ play zones, modern gym, and children’s club
• Outdoor cinema, live music band, and three bars: Chill Sky Bar, Beach Pool Bar, and Ruou Poolside Bar
• Hoi An’s largest convention center – with capacity for up to 400 guests

• Daily shuttle service to the old town, airport transfer, and complimentary bicycles for getting around the resort

Book your stay at Hoi An Royal Beachfront Villas to enjoy a premium retreat and relax in luxurious beachfront villas!

Tips for a great night time experience in Hoi An

To make your nighttime adventure in Hoi An fulfilling, safe, and memorable, keep the following in mind:

• Plan your time wisely: Hoi An’s old town has many attractions and night activities like floating lanterns, shows, night markets, and cafés. Some heritage sites and shops close early, so plan your schedule to avoid missing favorites.
• Carry cash: Many small vendors, snack stalls, and night markets in Hoi An only accept cash. Bring enough to shop and eat with ease.
• Take care of personal belongings: Nighttime hotspots like night markets and lantern streets can get crowded. Keep your valuables secure to avoid loss or theft.
• Wear comfortable footwear: The old town has many brick-paved areas and requires walking. Choose shoes that make strolling more enjoyable.
• Avoid wandering alone late at night in deserted areas: For safety, stick with groups or friends and avoid empty alleys during late hours.
• Check event schedules in advance: Hoi An regularly hosts traditional shows like bai choi, lion dance, and lantern festivals. Knowing the schedule helps you catch the best events.
• Limit alcohol consumption: If you’re out at night lounges or bars, drink moderately to stay alert and safe while moving around.
• Use map apps or guides: The old town has many alleys. Use navigation tools or mobile apps to stay on track and save time exploring.

With its poetic beauty and vivid charm, Hoi An nightlife is an essential part of discovering Central Vietnam. For the perfect holiday, don’t forget to choose Hoi An Royal Beachfront Villas – the ideal retreat just minutes from the old town, where you can enjoy privacy, attentive service, and a gentle sea breeze.