Whenever I travel to Hoi An, I feel a sense of peace that’s hard to find anywhere else in Vietnam. With its charming lantern-lit streets, rich history, and kid-friendly atmosphere, it’s a dream destination for families. In this guide, Hura Cars will share a complete Hoi An 3 days 2 nights itinerary for families with kids— packed with choices so you can make it your own.
This itinerary blends cultural exploration, outdoor fun, and a bit of relaxation. Whether you like quiet walks in the Ancient Town, thrilling rides at VinWonders Nam Hoi An, or peaceful moments by Cua Dai Beach, you’ll find something for everyone.
Hoi An Travel Experience for a 3 Days 2 Nights Trip
How to Get to Hoi An and Where to Stay with Kids
The easiest way to reach Hoi An is by flying into Da Nang International Airport. From there, it’s about a 45-minute drive. I recommend booking a private car — comfortable and ideal when traveling with kids. Hura Cars and Hoi An Taxi are reliable brands that you can choose.
Book a private car to transfer from Da Nang Airport to Hoi An with us.
Families can choose between:
- Hoi An Ancient Town: Stay close to historical attractions and restaurants.
- An Bang Beach: Perfect for families who love the sea breeze and ocean views.
I stayed near An Bang Beach during my last trip, and I loved waking up to the sound of waves. It’s calm, clean, and filled with cozy cafés.
Recommended stays:
- Little Riverside Hoi An– 09 Đuong Phan Boi Chau, Cam Chau, Hoi An, Quang Nam
- Aira Boutique Hoi An Hotel & Spa– An Bang beach, 128 Nguyen Phan Vinh, St, Hoi An, Quang Nam
Getting Around Hoi An
Hoi An offers many ways to get around, depending on how far you plan to go. You can choose from public buses, motorbike taxis, cyclos, or taxis— all are convenient and easy to find.
If you want to explore at your own pace, renting a bicycle or motorbike is the best choice. Cycling around the old town or along rice fields is a favorite family activity.
Typical rental prices in Hoi An:
- Bicycle rental: from 40,000 VND/day
- Motorbike rental: 120,000 – 150,000 VND/day
Many hotels also offer free bicycles for guests, so check with your accommodation before renting elsewhere.
Best Time to Visit Hoi An with Kids
The best time to visit the Ancient town is from February to August, when the weather is dry and warm. I visited in April and found it perfect for both city walks and beach time.
Bring hats, sunscreen, and insect repellent, especially for young children. Always adjust your schedule based on your kids’ energy levels — flexibility makes the trip more enjoyable for everyone.
If you’d like to see more planning details, check out this in-depth travel guide for visiting Hoi An— it’s full of personal notes and local insights.
Day 1 – Explore Ancient Town and Afternoon Fun!
Get ready for an amazing adventure in Hoi An! Today is all about beautiful old buildings, yummy food, and choosing your own afternoon fun!
Morning: Stepping Back in History
After settling into your hotel, lace up your walking shoes and dive into the Ancient Town. This was once a busy trading port, and you can still feel the history in the air!
- Iconic Sightseeing: Look for the famous Japanese Covered Bridge—it’s an ancient, moss-covered marvel that is the true symbol of Hoi An. Next, peek inside the well-preserved Tan Ky Old House and the Tran Family Chapel; these wooden homes show a beautiful mix of Vietnamese, Chinese, and Japanese styles. Don’t miss the stunning Phuc Kien Assembly Hall! It’s bright and vibrant, decorated with beautiful dragon and phoenix art, and is a perfect spot for memorable photos.
Midday: A Taste of Central Vietnam
All that exploring will make you hungry! It’s time to find a famous local spot for a delightful lunch.
- Noodle Heaven: Try the regional specialty, Cao Lau, at a renowned spot like Cao Lau Thanh (26 Thai Phien).
- Chicken and Rice: If you prefer something different, grab a plate of flavor-packed Com Ga (Chicken Rice) from a famous vendor like Ba Buoi (22 Phan Chu Trinh).
- Best Banh Mi: For a quick, world-famous bite, find Banh Mi Phuong (2B Phan Chu Trinh) for a sandwich that’s packed with savory goodness.
- Cool Down: Before moving on, find the popular street stall Mot Hoi An for a wonderfully cool and refreshing glass of herbal tea, often decorated with a fresh lotus petal!
Afternoon: Hands-On Culture!
If you prefer to learn new things and get creative, pick one of these spots:
- Tra Que Vegetable Village: Walk through beautiful green gardens and see how local farmers grow super organic herbs and veggies without any bad stuff! You can even try to plant or water the plants yourself!
- Thanh Ha Pottery Village: Get your hands messy! This is the perfect spot if your kids love to make things. Try the potter’s wheel and shape your very own clay souvenir – a bowl, a cup, or whatever you can imagine!
Evening: The Magic of Lanterns and Night Market Buzz
As the sun sets, Hoi An transforms into a wonderland! The entire Old Town glows under the light of hundreds of colorful silk lanterns from every house and awning.
- Dinner by the River: Enjoy a romantic dinner right by the Hoai River at places like Bep Tre or Van Loc. Savor another local dish like Mi Quang or maybe some small plates like Banh Beo (water fern cakes).
- Wishing Lanterns: Join the crowd on the riverbank to participate in the ancient tradition of releasing a floating flower lantern. You can hire a lantern boat on Hoai river to see the magnificient view. Send your tiny light and a wish for peace and happiness gently down the water—it’s a truly beautiful moment.
- Night Market Fun: Cross the bridge to the Nguyen Hoang Night Market. With over 50 stalls, you can hunt for unique crafts, jewelry, and art. You might even find locals playing traditional folk games like blindfolded pot-smashing or the lively Hat Bai Choi(a singing/bingo game)!
Day 2 – A Fun Day at VinWonders Nam Hoi An
Today is all about excitement, rides, and getting soaked at VinWonders Nam Hoi An! This giant amusement park is just a short 15–20 minute drive from Hoi An’s center.
All-Day Fun: Rides, Water, and Wildlife!
Spend the whole day exploring this huge park that has something for everyone—from the smallest toddlers to the bravest teens and adults!
- Thrill Seekers & Games: Get your adrenaline pumping! The park has over 20 thrilling outdoor rides and 100 indoor games to explore. Scream and laugh on exciting roller coasters and challenge each other to a friendly game inside!
- Water Park Splash: Pack your swimsuits! Jump into the massive Water Park for a cool-down. With slippery slides and fun pools, it’s the perfect place to beat the heat and make a big splash.
- River Safari Adventure: Go on a unique adventure! Hop on a boat for a River Safari tour through the park’s zoo. You’ll get to see amazing animals like giraffes and tigers up close as you float past their habitats—it’s like being on an expedition!
- Culture & Photos: Don’t miss the beautiful Harbour Intersection, which is a perfect spot for colorful family photos! You can also catch amazing cultural shows at the Folk Culture Island, where you can learn about Vietnam’s history and heritage in a fun way.
Lunchtime Recharge
When everyone is hungry, there are many choices inside the park. You can grab a tasty meal at restaurants like Harbor, Deliland, or the Food Court, offering everything from quick snacks to big international and local dinners.
Evening: Another Dose of Hoi An Charm
After an exciting day, travel back to the Ancient Town for a relaxing evening. Enjoy a casual dinner and then take another gentle stroll through the lantern-lit streets. The evening atmosphere here is truly magical.
Vinwonders Nam Hoi An Details:
- Address: Vo Chi Cong, Binh Duong, Thang Binh, Da Nang
- Operating Hours (Check before you go!):
- Weekdays: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Weekends: 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM
- Ticket Prices:
- Adults: 600,000 VNĐ
- Seniors & Children: 450,000 VNĐ
- Local residents: 360,000 VNĐ
Day 3 – Beach Time and Family Foodie Moments
Morning: Sun and Sand at Cua Dai Beach
Say goodbye to the ancient houses and head straight for the coast! Cua Dai Beach is only a short ride from the center of town (about 5 km) and is the ideal spot for a relaxing morning.
- Cool Dip: Take an early swim to enjoy the refreshing water and clean, cool air.
- Beach Walk: Stroll along the fine white sand, watching the local fishermen’s basket boats and fishing vessels resting on the shore.
- Relax or Play: You can rent a beach chair and umbrella to simply relax and listen to the waves, or get active with SUP paddleboarding or beach volleyball. The gentle morning sun and light sea breeze are the perfect cure for any holiday stress.
Lunchtime: Seaside Lunch and Quiet Break
After working up an appetite at the beach, you can enjoy lunch right by the ocean.
- Fresh Catch: Choose a local seafood shack near the beach. The seafood at Cửa Đại is incredibly fresh! Try simple, delicious dishes like grilled squid, steamed clams, or savory shrimp simmered in a spicy sauce.
- Tip: A Rình Seafood or a Cua Dai Beachside Restaurant are great options, known for their tasty food and friendly service.
- Rest Time: Head back to your hotel to relax and cool down, or find a shady spot by the road for a cold drink to observe the quiet rhythm of the town during the midday heat.
Afternoon: Exploring the Bay Mau Coconut Forest
Around 2 PM, it’s time for your final big adventure! Journey to the Bay Mau Coconut Forest, often called “Little Mekong Delta,” just a few kilometers from the Ancient Town.
- Basket Boat Thrills: Jump into a round basket boat (thúng chài) and let a local guide paddle you through the cool, shady water channels. They might even show off some fun spinning tricks!
- Leaf Crafts: Learn how to make cute souvenirs—like rings, grasshoppers, or little hats—out of coconut leaves. It’s a fun, hands-on activity.
- Nature Photo Shoot: Capture stunning photos in the small canals where the sunlight filters beautifully through the dense coconut palms, creating a peaceful, lush green paradise. This is a memorable way to end your three days in magical Hoi An!
Estimated Cost for Your 3-Day, 2-Night Hoi An Trip
The total estimated cost for a 3-day, 2-night trip to Hoi An generally starts at around 4,800,000 VND to 5,000,000 VND (approx 180-190 USD) per person for mid-range services. This includes your stay, food, tickets, and main activities.
Here is a breakdown of the expenses:
Accommodation (Price per Night):
- Budget Hotels: 300,000 – 600,000 VND
- Mid-Range Hotels: 600,000 – 1,300,000 VND
- Luxury Hotels/Resorts: 1,500,000 – 5,000,000 VND
Food and Dining (Price per Item/Meal):
Hoi An offers diverse and affordable cuisine:
- Street Snacks (like sweet corn soup or sesame rice crackers): 20,000 – 50,000 VND
- Main Local Dishes (Cao Lau or Mi Quang): 50,000 – 100,000 VND
- Fine Dining/High-End Restaurants: 150,000 – 300,000 VND
Transportation (Price per Day or Trip):
- Bicycle Rental: 30,000 – 50,000 VND per day
- Motorbike Rental: 120,000 – 150,000 VND per day
- Short Taxi Ride: 100,000 – 200,000 VND per trip
- Private Car: 200,000 – 300,000 VND (depending on your route)
Activities and Entrance Fees (Price per Person):
- Hoi An Ancient Town Ticket (covers 5 main landmarks): 120,000 VND
- Thanh Ha Pottery Village: 35,000 VND
- Tra Que Vegetable Village: 35,000 VND
- Bay Mau Coconut Forest Basket Boat Ride: 150,000 – 200,000 VND
- VinWonders Nam Hoi An: 450,000 – 600,000 VND
Read the full post about last updated entrance fee in Hoi An 2025.
Helpful Travel Tips for Families
When visiting Hoi An with kids, a few simple preparations can make your trip smoother and more enjoyable:
- Stay hydrated. The weather in Hoi An can get quite hot, especially around midday. Always carry a bottle of water for each family member to stay refreshed.
- Wear lightweight clothes and comfortable walking shoes. You’ll spend a lot of time walking through the old town, cycling around villages, or exploring the beach, so breathable outfits and sturdy shoes are essential.
- Learn a few simple Vietnamese phrases. Saying “Xin chào”(Hello) and “Cảm ơn”(Thank you) goes a long way. Locals truly appreciate it when visitors make an effort to communicate in their language.
- Use your phone for maps, but carry cash. While Google Maps or Apple Maps are helpful for getting around, not every small shop or café accepts card payments. Keep some Vietnamese dong handy for snacks, souvenirs, and entrance tickets.
- Plan short breaks for kids. Stop for a cold coconut, relax at a riverside café, or visit a shady park to rest. These little pauses help everyone recharge and enjoy the trip more.
- Protect yourself from the sun. Don’t forget sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses — especially if you’re exploring during the dry season.