How long is the train from Hanoi to Hoi An?

How long should I spend in Hoi An?

Three days in Hoi An? Amateur hour. That’s barely enough time to choose your favorite tailor. You need at least five. Five days to truly absorb the city’s essence. Think of it like wine tasting – three days is like a single sip, five is a proper degustation.

• Old Town exploration: Don’t rush. It’s like a delicious, ancient cake. You need time to savor each layer.
• Cuisine: Three days? Insulting to your taste buds. There’s more cao lầu than you can shake a chopstick at.
• Tailor-made clothes: You’ll regret not getting that silk jumpsuit. Seriously, you’ll want two.
• Cooking classes: Master the art of bánh mì – it’s a life skill, not a hobby.

My cousin, bless her soul, spent only two days. She still regrets the missed bún chả cá. A tragedy. Five days is the sweet spot. Seven, if you’re feeling ambitious. And pack extra luggage. You’re gonna need it.

My brother, a notorious over-packer, spent a week there in 2023 and came back with enough silk to clothe a small village. He’s still trying to sell some of it. Don’t be like my brother. Plan carefully. But five days. Minimum. Really.

Should I stay in Da Nang or Hoi An?

Da Nang or Hoi An? Tricky, like choosing between a perfectly sculpted bonsai and a sprawling, chaotic jungle. Both are stunning, obviously.

Hoi An wins the beach beauty pageant, hands down. Da Nang’s got some decent stretches of sand, sure, but Hoi An’s are… more Instagrammable. Think less crowded, more charming.

Seafood? Delicious in both. Forget the debate, just eat. My personal favorite in Da Nang is the Ba Khanh restaurant, close to my friend’s house near the Han River. Hoi An’s night market is a culinary adventure, however, especially if you’re a street food junkie like me.

Hoi An’s charm is undeniably stronger. It’s like comparing a polished gem to a raw diamond – both beautiful, but one is ready to wear. Da Nang is more modern, more…sprawling. A bit like my messy apartment after a party; enjoyable but overwhelming.

Choose Hoi An for the vibe, Da Nang for the… well, the slightly less charming modern amenities. It really depends on your priorities. I personally prefer the ancient town of Hoi An. Its architecture, the tailor shops, it’s just better. Trust me.

• Hoi An: More picturesque beaches, charming ancient town, amazing street food.
• Da Nang: More modern, wider range of amenities, excellent but less atmospheric seafood.

My preference? Hoi An, all day, every day. Although, I wouldn’t say no to more Banh Mi from Da Nang. Seriously, amazing Banh Mi.

Is there much to do in Hoi An?

Hoi An. The air hangs heavy, sweet with jasmine and the distant scent of the sea. Ancient Town whispers secrets. Lanterns, a million tiny stars against the dusk. Time slows, stretches, like silk on sun-warmed skin.

The river, a shimmering ribbon, reflecting the day’s dying light. Small boats drift, carrying whispers of ages past. The ancient houses, their paint peeling like memories, hold the ghosts of generations. Each one a story untold.

An Bang Beach. Sand warm beneath my feet. The turquoise sea calls, a siren song. I felt the grains, each one a tiny universe. I felt the salt spray on my skin. That afternoon, it was perfect.

Cooking classes. The scent of lemongrass and ginger, a heady perfume. My hands, clumsy at first, learn the ancient rhythms of the kitchen. The explosion of flavours, a revelation. I made the best spring rolls.

The markets. A kaleidoscope of sights and sounds. The chaotic energy, intoxicating. Silk, spices, and smiles. Each stall a portal to another world. Bargaining, a dance, a flirtation. I bought a scarf, a vibrant splash of color.

This is Hoi An. It’s breathtaking. It’s more than just sights and activities. It’s feeling. It’s being. It’s a place that embeds itself into your very being. My trip was during the 2024 summer, the weather was heavenly. My favorite memory is a street food stall near the Japanese Covered Bridge; best Banh Mi ever. My hotel, the Palm Garden, was exquisite. Definitely recommend.

• Hoi An Ancient Town: Explore the charming streets, centuries-old architecture, and vibrant culture.
• An Bang Beach: Relax on the soft sand, swim in the clear water, and soak up the sun.
• Cooking Classes: Learn to prepare delicious Vietnamese dishes from local chefs.
• Flea & Street Markets: Discover unique souvenirs, handcrafted goods, and local produce.
• My personal recommendation: The Japanese Covered Bridge, a stunning architectural masterpiece.
• 2024 Summer travel note: The weather is fantastic for beach activities and exploration. Book ahead.

Should I spend more time in Ho Chi Minh or Hoi An?

Hội An’s allure is undeniable. Tailor shops, lanterns, the river… slow, captivating. Distinct from Ho Chi Minh City’s frenetic pace. Reflect: what kind of traveler are you? I prefer slower travel now, not the rush.

• HCMC: Motorbikes, markets, street food. A sensory overload. My friend visited last summer, and it changed him. Exciting, modern.

• Hội An: Ancient town, tranquil. Tailored clothes, affordable luxury. I splurged on a silk suit last year. Worth it. Cycling around the rice paddies. Peace.

Time depends on your travel style. Three days in Hoi An feels right. Enough to soak it in. HCMC needs longer, maybe five days. So much to explore. Ben Thanh Market. War Remnants Museum. Heavy stuff.

Think about what you value. History? Hoi An. Buzz? HCMC. Or split your time. Many do. Fly into HCMC. Train to Hoi An. Simple. Travel is a journey inwards, they say. True. Explore both, why not. Da Nang, nearby. Beaches, marble mountains. Another option entirely. Sometimes a detour reveals the truest path. Hanoi in the north, entirely different again. Crazy but in a good way. Street food unreal.