Hoi An is famous for its delicious food and authentic cooking experiences rooted in centuries of tradition, making it a perfect place to learn how to make Vietnamese dishes. Whether you’re a foodie, a culture seeker, or just looking for a fun way to spend an afternoon, the city offers a variety of cooking classes that go beyond just stirring pots. We especially love tours like the From Hoi An: Market Tour, Basket Boat Ride and Cooking Class for its immersive rural flavor and hands-on approach. You’ll visit a bustling local market, explore coconut palm forests by bamboo basket boat, and learn to cook traditional dishes that you can replicate at home.
If you’re interested in combining fishing with your culinary adventure, the Hoi An Eco Tour Cooking Class & Fishing offers a small-group experience with genuine local interactions. And for those who want to go deeper, the Visit Local Market, Coconut Basket Boat Ride and Cooking Class features pounding rice, making rice paper, and traditional Vietnamese tools, making it a full cultural deep dive. Below, you’ll find 15 of the best cooking classes in Hoi An—each with its own charm and focus.
1. From Hoi An: Market Tour, Basket Boat Ride and Cooking Class
This highly-rated tour, with a 4.8/5 from over 2,200 reviews, offers a full rural immersion. It starts with a lively market visit, where you learn to bargain and pick fresh ingredients, then takes you into a coconut palm forest via bamboo basket boat — a fun and unique experience. The highlight is the hands-on cooking class, where you prepare traditional Vietnamese dishes yourself.
What makes this tour stand out is its eco-friendly approach and authentic setting, away from tourist traps. The price is very reasonable at just $17 per person, making it an excellent value. Reviewers love the mix of activities packed into a half-day, with one noting, “Very fun, interactive, and delicious.” It’s perfect for travelers wanting to experience local life with a sprinkle of adventure.
Bottom line: If you want a balanced, affordable experience with scenic boat rides and market fun, this is a top choice.
2. Hoi An Eco Tour Cooking Class & Fishing
Rating 5.0/5 from 546 reviews, this tour is for those who want a personalized, intimate experience. It combines a local market visit, traditional fishing by boat, and a two-hour Vietnamese cooking class. The fishing part is a real treat—using local techniques, you’ll learn how to catch fish and crabs, adding a true rural flavor.
This tour costs $29, offering a rich experience packed into about four and a half hours. Many reviews mention how it’s a fun, authentic way to understand Vietnamese cuisine and culture. One traveler shared, “I loved shopping at the market and fishing from the boat,” highlighting how engaging it is.
Bottom line: Best suited for curious travelers looking for a cultural and culinary combo with small-group intimacy.
3. Visit Local Market, Coconut Basket Boat Ride and Cooking Class
This 5-star rated tour combines market shopping, coconut boat riding, and cooking in a more in-depth experience. It’s slightly longer, about 4 hours and 40 minutes, and focuses on Vietnamese craftsmanship—pounding rice, making rice paper, and using traditional tools.
The highlight is the boat ride through Cam Thanh village, along with the chance to learn traditional techniques. The included lavish lunch or dinner — cooked by yourself — makes the experience worth every penny at $26.10. Some reviews mention it’s fast-paced, but most enjoy the rich variety of activities.
Bottom line: Ideal for those interested in the culinary process and Vietnamese culture in an immersive, hands-on environment.
4. Traditional Cooking Class with Basket Boat Ride and Market Tour
Offering a full countryside escape, this 3.5-hour tour includes local market exploration, a river cruise, and a basket boat experience—plus a Vietnamese cookery class. An added bonus: a shoulder massage and the chance to ride a water buffalo cart.
Rated 5.0/5 from 384 reviews, it’s attractive for travelers wanting variety and relaxation. The price is $34, which includes hotel pickup and vegetarian options. Some reviewers mention the experience is well organized, but note that the boat ride may be less authentic than some expect.
Bottom line: Perfect for those who want more than just cooking, including river rides and countryside charm.
5. Cooking with Jolie in Hoi An
This family-run cooking class, rated 5.0/5 from 282 reviews, offers an authentic home experience. Set in a local family’s house, you’ll pick ingredients at a farm or market, then cook 4 traditional Vietnamese dishes under the guidance of Jolie, a professional chef. Duration is about 5 hours, and vegetarian meals can be accommodated.
Guests love the personal touch and the chance to see real Vietnamese life. One reviewer states, “Great fun, friendly, and very tasty,” highlighting its authentic charm. Price is $44, making it one of the more premium options, but with personalized attention.
Bottom line: Best for travelers seeking a family-style experience and learning home-style Vietnamese cooking.
6. Hoi An: Basket Boat Ride, Cooking Class by Hangcoconut
Rating 4.8/5 from 447 reviews, this tour presents a classic combination of basket boat riding, market shopping, and a cooking class for just $17. The tour emphasizes local ecosystems and fishermen’s lives, with an informative guide leading you through crab catching and boat riding.
While the coconut boat experience might be a bit touristy, many find it fun and authentic. The tour is praised for its value and friendly guide. One review mentions, “The food was amazing and smiles all around,” capturing the joyful spirit.
Bottom line: Great for budget-conscious travelers wanting a full cultural day with a focus on water-based activities.
7. Cooking School from Hoi An/ Da Nang
If you’re in Da Nang or Hoi An and want a short, practical cooking experience, this 2.5-hour class is perfect. It covers 4 authentic dishes with lessons suitable for all skill levels, and includes transfers from either city.
Rated 5.0/5 by 185 reviews, it offers excellent value for money at just $22. Travelers praise the hands-on approach and the clear instructions. One reviewer said, “Highly recommended to anyone visiting Hoi An,” reflecting its popularity.
Bottom line: Ideal for time-strapped travelers who want a compact but comprehensive cooking lesson.
8. Full Experience Tour: Cooking Class & Basket Boat at Eco-Village
This full-day adventure at Eco-Village, rated 5.0/5 from 181 reviews, costs $52 and includes a farm tour, bike riding, rice-paper making, a cooking class, and a bamboo boat ride. It’s perfect for travelers who want an all-encompassing culture.
The tour’s highlight is how it features local family participation, making it feel more personal. Reviewers mention the variety of activities and authentic meals. One reviewer states, “We felt like part of the family,” emphasizing its heartfelt nature.
Bottom line: Best suited for those seeking a comprehensive, multi-activity day with a strong local connection.
9. Hoi An/Da Nang: Vietnamese Cooking Class with Transportation
This mid-length class (~3 hours) offers a hands-on experience with 4 dishes in either Hoi An or Da Nang. It includes transfers and takes about 2.5 to 3 hours. With a 4.9/5 rating from 227 reviews, it’s a favorite for easy access and practical learning.
Reviewers appreciate the friendly hosts and delicious food. One praised, “Great recipes, loads to eat,” making it a reliable choice for food lovers wanting quick but thorough lessons.
Bottom line: Good for travelers who want efficient, flavorful cooking classes with convenient logistics.
10. Hoi An: Traditional Cooking Class & Meal with Local Family
This intimate, 3-3.5 hour class, rated 4.9/5, takes place in a local family’s home. You learn to cook Vietnamese staples and get to share a meal with the host family, offering a genuine cultural experience.
Guests love the hands-on approach and the delicious results. One review notes, “We cooked and ate a lot, with recipes to take home,” emphasizing its practical value. The price is $22, and it’s perfect for those seeking authentic local insights.
Bottom line: Great for immersive cultural experiences and learning home-style cooking.
11. Hoi An Basket Boat, Lantern Making And Cooking Class Tour
This multi-activity tour, rated 5.0/5 from 151 reviews, combines basket boat riding, market shopping, lantern making, and cooking. It’s a full half-day at around 4.5 hours and costs $30.
The tour is praised for its variety and cultural depth. Travelers mention how they enjoyed making lanterns and learning local fishing techniques. One reviewer said, “We had a blast,” reflecting the fun and engaging nature.
Bottom line: Best for adventurous travelers who want multiple experiences in one day.
12. Bay Mau Cooking Class with Market Tour and Basket Boat Ride
Rated 5.0/5 with 150 reviews, this charming tour in Bay Mau offers a cooking class, market tour, and basket boat ride for $27. You’ll cook 4 dishes, including Pho, with traditional utensils, then relax on the river.
The scenic setting and hands-on instruction make it a favorite. One review states, “Made delicious food and had a relaxing boat ride,” emphasizing its relaxed pace and authentic touch.
Bottom line: Perfect for foodies wanting scenic beauty and local flavor.
13. Hoi An Eco & Cooking Class Tour
This 5-hour tour, with a 5/5 rating, combines early market visits, basket boat paddling, and culinary lessons. It focuses on rural life and regional dishes like banh xeo and papaya salad.
Many reviewers highlight the informative guides and delicious lunch. One quoted, “Great day, lots of fun,” showing its appeal for active, curious travelers.
Bottom line: Ideal for those wanting a rural experience combined with good food.
14. Hoi An Eco Cooking Class With Kien Nguyen Cooking
Led by Mr. Kien Nguyen, rated 5.0/5, this class is a relaxing countryside experience. It includes local market interactions, basket boat riding, and crab catching—all aimed at understanding Vietnamese rural life.
Guests enjoy personalized guidance and a hands-on approach. One review mentions, “We caught purple crabs and paddled in bamboo boats,” emphasizing its interactive nature.
Bottom line: Perfect for those wanting authentic rural immersion with culinary skills.
15. Basket Boat and Cooking Class Experience
This balanced tour includes a basket boat ride, local market shopping, and a home-style cooking class for $28. It focuses on fishing, leaves making, and famous Vietnamese dishes.
Rated 5.0/5, it’s praised for its warm local atmosphere and fun learning moments. One reviewer states, “Learned how to navigate basket boats and cooked delicious food,” highlighting its authentic charm.
Bottom line: Great for culture-rich experiences in a friendly local setting.
How to Choose the Best Cooking Class in Hoi An
When selecting a cooking class, consider your interests and schedule. If you’re keen on full rural immersion — with boat rides, market shopping, and hands-on cooking — the Full Experience Tour is a fantastic option. For those with limited time, the Cooking School from Hoi An/ Da Nang offers a quick, tasty introduction. Budget travelers will appreciate the Basket Boat Ride, Cooking Class by Hangcoconut, which combines affordability with authenticity.
If you want to experience local family life and learn home-style dishes, the Traditional Cooking Class & Meal with Local Family is perfect, especially for cultural enthusiasts. For adventure lovers, the Basket Boat, Lantern Making, and Cooking Tour offers multiple activities, making a full day of fun.
Final Thoughts
Hoi An offers an array of cooking experiences that cater to every interest, whether you’re after a deep dive into Vietnamese cuisine, a cultural adventure, or a relaxing countryside escape. The From Hoi An: Market Tour, Basket Boat Ride and Cooking Class remains a popular choice for its balanced mix of activities, while the Full Experience Tour suits those wanting a full day of immersion.
For travelers with limited time or specific budgets, options like the Basket Boat Ride, Cooking Class by Hangcoconut and the Da Nang Cooking Class deliver excellent value. If you are traveling with family or seeking a more personal, home-style experience, Jolie’s class or the Local Family Cooking Experience won’t disappoint.
Booking early is recommended, especially during peak seasons, to secure your spot in these popular classes. Whichever tour you choose, you’re sure to take home not just recipes, but stories and skills to recreate your favorite Vietnamese dishes wherever you go.