Hoi An Fishing Village & Cooking Tour

Imagine strolling through bustling local markets, paddling in traditional basket boats, and then rolling up your sleeves to craft a delicious Vietnamese meal. That’s exactly what this Hoi An Fishing Village & Cooking Tour offers — a rich blend of culture, scenery, and culinary delights, all packed into four hours. For $43 per person, you’ll explore two different routes: one focusing on the vibrant local market and Tra Que vegetable village, and the other immersing you in the scenic countryside and traditional fishing village.

What we love most are the opportunity to interact with local sellers at the market and the unique experience of rowing a basket boat—a fun and authentic way to see the fishing village. Plus, the chance to prepare your own meal under the guidance of a professional chef transforms this from just sightseeing into a memorable hands-on experience.

A minor consideration? The tour involves quite a bit of walking and cycling, so comfortable shoes are essential. But if you’re eager for an immersive taste of Hoi An’s everyday life, this tour fits the bill perfectly for curious travelers who want more than just sightseeing — they want stories, flavors, and a real glimpse into local traditions.

This tour is ideal for those who enjoy culinary adventures, cultural interactions, and scenic outdoor experiences. Whether you’re a foodie, a culture buff, or simply looking for a meaningful activity during your visit, you’ll find value here.

Key Points

Authentic local experience: Visit markets and villages with real Vietnamese life.
Hands-on cooking: Prepare and enjoy a meal that reflects local flavors.
Cultural immersion: Row a traditional basket boat and learn fishing techniques.
Flexible options: Choose between a market or vegetable village focus.
Value for money: Includes transport, guided experience, and all entrance fees.
Active participation: Involves walking, cycling, and cooking—great for active travelers.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Itinerary: A Deep Dive

Enjoy hands-on learning? Here are other cooking experiences we've covered in Hoi An

Visiting the Local Market or Tra Que Vegetable Village

The tour begins at 9:00 a.m. with hotel pickup, setting the stage for an authentic day. Your guide, often a friendly local like Doan Phuoc Tai, will lead you to either the colorful Hoi An market or the scenic Tra Que vegetable village, depending on your chosen option.

If you opt for the market experience, you’ll love the vibrant sights and sounds — stalls bursting with fresh herbs, fragrant spices, and tropical produce. As you wander, you’ll get a chance to interact with local sellers, buying ingredients that will later feature in your cooking class. The sensory overload — the smells, the chatter, the bright displays — makes this a lively and memorable start. Several reviews highlight how engaging and genuine this part of the tour feels, with one traveler noting, “It was so much fun to chat with vendors and pick out fresh herbs myself.”

Alternatively, if your preference leans toward the countryside, your group will cycle through paddy fields, passing water buffalos and hardworking farmers. The scenery is peaceful and photogenic, with lush green rice paddies and palm-lined paths making for a calming ride. Here, you’ll learn about local agricultural practices and see firsthand how herbs like mint, coriander, and basil are grown — indispensable ingredients in Hoi An cuisine.

Basket Boat Ride in Cam Thanh

Next, around 10:00 a.m., you’ll transfer to Cam Thanh’s water coconut fishing village. This is where the tour takes a delightfully traditional turn. You’ll hop into a bamboo basket boat, a round vessel that’s propelled by locals using a long pole — think of it as Vietnam’s version of a gondola, but with a lot more splash and character.

Many reviews mention the fun of learning to row with a local fisherman, who shares stories about their centuries-old techniques. The scenery in the water coconut forest is surprisingly lush, offering a different perspective on Vietnam’s waterways. It’s a peaceful, scenic experience, with the added bonus of harvesting a coconut fruit or two — a little souvenir to remember your trip.

Cooking Class with a Local Chef

By 11:30 a.m., you’ll arrive at the Little River Cafe, where the real magic begins. After a cool drink, your guide and chef will introduce you to Hoi An’s distinctive cooking style, emphasizing local ingredients and presentation. Here, you’ll learn how to decorate a plate and prepare ingredients, setting the stage for your culinary creation.

The hands-on part involves chopping, crushing, slicing, and rolling — activities that make this experience both fun and educational. Several reviews praise the professional chef for his patience and clear instructions, making even novice cooks feel confident. When you finally sit down to enjoy your freshly cooked meal, it’s a moment of pride and satisfaction, knowing you made it yourself with local flavors.

More Great Tours Nearby

Return and Reflection

At 1:00 p.m., the tour wraps up with a return to your hotel, giving you the afternoon free to relax or explore further. What stays with most travelers is the combination of sights, sounds, and flavors — a genuine taste of Vietnamese village life, combined with engaging activities.

While in Hoi An, here are other experiences we've covered

Price & Value Analysis

At $43 per person, this tour offers solid value, especially considering it includes all transportation, a guided experience, entrance tickets, and the cooking class. The diversity of activities — from market visits and basket boat rides to hands-on cooking — makes it a comprehensive package that appeals to a broad audience.

Some travelers mention the small group size and the knowledgeable guides as a real bonus, making the experience more personal and engaging. The inclusion of local guides and chefs ensures an authentic, rather than touristy, experience. Plus, the options to tailor your experience — whether focusing on the market or the vegetable farm — add a layer of flexibility.

Practical Considerations

This tour involves walking and cycling, so packing comfortable shoes and sun protection is wise. The morning timing fits well with most travelers’ plans, and the pickup service simplifies logistics.

Most reviews highlight the friendly guides and the delicious food as the tour’s high points. However, some travelers note that the itinerary is quite packed, so if you prefer a more relaxed pace or more free time, you might find this a bit brisk.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re looking to experience Hoi An beyond the usual, with a focus on local life, authentic flavors, and scenic outdoor activities, this tour is ideal. Food lovers will appreciate the chance to learn how to cook Vietnamese dishes, while culture enthusiasts will enjoy the market and boat rides.

This experience suits active travelers comfortable with walking and cycling, and those eager to interact with local people. It’s also perfect if you’re seeking a hands-on, memorable activity that combines sightseeing with cultural engagement.

Final Thoughts

The Hoi An Fishing Village & Cooking Tour delivers a well-rounded glimpse into Vietnamese village life, culinary traditions, and scenic waterways. It offers a personalized experience that feels authentic, thanks to knowledgeable guides and engaging activities. The chance to prepare your own meal with fresh ingredients makes it more than just a sightseeing trip — it’s a real taste of local culture.

For travelers craving an active, immersive, and tasty adventure, this tour hits the sweet spot. It’s especially suited for those who want to connect with local people, savor homemade flavors, and enjoy scenic paddling and cycling.

If you’re after a value-packed experience that combines fun, learning, and delicious food, this tour deserves a spot on your itinerary in Hoi An.

FAQ

Can I choose between the market visit and Tra Que Vegetable Village?
Yes, the tour offers two options. You can select to visit either the vibrant local market or the scenic vegetable village, depending on your interests.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 4 hours, starting around 9:00 a.m., with flexible starting times depending on availability.

Is transportation included?
Yes, transportation by a well-maintained coach in either Danang or Hoi An is included in the price.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, a hat, sunscreen, and a camera are recommended. Comfortable clothing suitable for walking and cycling is also a good idea.

Are the activities suitable for children or older travelers?
Yes, the activities are generally suitable for all ages, but keep in mind that walking and cycling are involved, so stamina and comfort are considerations.

Is the tour family-friendly?
Absolutely. It’s a fun, educational experience that can engage children and adults alike, especially those interested in food and local culture.

In summary, this tour offers a compelling blend of culture, cuisine, and scenery. It’s a practical choice for travelers wanting an authentic, active, and delicious day in Hoi An, leaving you with new skills, tasty memories, and stories to tell.