Hoi An Old Town Entrance Ticket +Boat Lantern Release Ticket

Experience the Charm of Hoi An with the Old Town Entrance and Lantern Release Tour

Imagine wandering through ancient streets glowing with thousands of lanterns, the soft ripple of the river beneath you, and the scent of traditional Vietnamese cuisine drifting in the air. For around $16 per person, this tour offers a well-rounded introduction to Hoi An’s UNESCO-listed Old Town, paired with a peaceful 20-minute boat ride along the Hoai River to release floating lanterns.

What we love about this experience is how accessible and balanced it feels. You get to explore some of the most iconic sights—like the Japanese Covered Bridge and local museums—and then slow down with a tranquil boat trip at sunset, a moment of quiet beauty that captures the heart of Vietnamese culture. Plus, the inclusion of a flower lantern and soft drink adds a small touch of authenticity and refreshment.

One consideration is that the itinerary might be a bit tight for those wanting to explore every inch of Hoi An’s ancient streets, especially if you prefer to wander at a leisurely pace. Also, some reviews have pointed out that prices for similar tickets can be lower if purchased directly on-site, so savvy travelers may want to compare.

This tour suits travelers who appreciate a blend of cultural sights and peaceful river moments, especially those who want a guided experience without breaking the bank. It’s perfect for first-timers, families, or anyone keen to see the highlights while enjoying a touch of evening serenity.

Key Points

• Includes access to 5 of 25 sightseeing spots within Hoi An Old Town
• Combines walking exploration with a scenic boat lantern release
• Affordable price at $16, with added inclusions like a flower lantern and soft drink
• Flexible timing with open hours from 8 AM to 9 PM
• Authentic experience with a traditional floating lantern ceremony
• Additional notes about pricing and ticket options available nearby

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the Hoi An Old Town Entrance and Lantern Release Tour

When you visit Hoi An, the historic Old Town is a must-see, and this combined ticket makes it easy to enjoy some of its main attractions. For $16, you gain access to five of the 25 designated sightseeing locations, including the Japanese Covered Bridge, Old Assembly Halls, and some of the museums and temples scattered throughout the narrow streets. These sites, rich in architecture and history, give you a glimpse into the town’s vibrant past as a trading hub.

What makes this tour stand out is how it allows you to explore on your own, with your own pace and a bit of guidance. A local guide might not accompany you throughout, but the ticket provides a clear plan for visiting some of the key sights, along with the optional traditional art performance often hosted in the town.

One of the tour’s highlights is the boat ride on the Hoai River. This 20-minute journey is not just about getting from one place to another; it’s about experiencing a quiet, almost meditative moment as the lanterns float gently downstream. You’ll have the unique chance to release your own floating lantern—a deeply symbolic act representing wishes, hope, and letting go of worries—especially as the sun dips and the lanterns glow against the evening sky.

Travelers love the visual spectacle of the lanterns glowing softly on the river, a scene that’s been captured in countless photographs. One traveler noted, “It’s so nice to leave the candles lit in the river,” emphasizing the peaceful, enchanting quality of this part of the tour. The flower lantern included in the package is a charming memento that you can keep, adding a special touch that’s both fun and meaningful.

The inclusions—a flower lantern and a soft drink—are small but thoughtful additions that enhance the experience. They’re simple, yet they symbolize the hospitality and cultural warmth of Vietnam.

However, a few reviews suggest some practical considerations. For example, some people found the ticket price higher than buying tickets directly at the site. One reviewer mentioned, “tickets for the old town are available next door for 120,000 VND,” which is roughly equivalent to the tour price, so you might want to shop around. Plus, the sightseeing spots tend to close at nightfall, so visiting in the late afternoon might make more sense if you’re primarily interested in the boat lantern experience rather than extensive sightseeing.

What to Expect During Your Visit

Starting point and timing are flexible, with the meeting point at 153 Tran Phu Street. The staff are helpful, and you’ll need to present your voucher—either printed or mobile—at the counter. The opening hours are generous, from 8 AM to 9 PM, meaning you can choose to do this tour in the morning, afternoon, or evening, depending on your travel plans.

Once you exchange your voucher for a physical ticket, you’re free to explore the Old Town. Expect to stroll through narrow, lantern-lit streets, passing Chinese merchants’ homes, Japanese-era buildings, and bustling markets. The Japanese Covered Bridge is a highlight—an iconic, centuries-old structure that looks especially atmospheric as the evening approaches.

You may also visit local museums and assembly halls, which provide insight into Hoi An’s diverse cultural influences. While these sites typically close by nightfall, you’ll still have plenty of time to soak in the charming ambiance.

The boat lantern release is scheduled for around sunset. As you board the traditional boat, the gentle rocking combined with the glow of hundreds of floating lanterns creates a magical scene. You’ll love the calm, almost meditative environment, perfect for reflection or just soaking in the moment. The flower lantern you receive can be released into the river or kept as a souvenir, whichever feels right.

The included soft drink is a refreshing touch after a day of walking. It’s nothing fancy but adds to the laid-back, welcoming vibe of the experience.

The Authentic Side of Hoi An

The light that makes this tour special is how it captures Hoi An’s essence—a blend of history, culture, and tradition. The lantern release is a timeless Vietnamese custom, rooted in centuries of tradition, and it continues to be a highlight for visitors. Comments from travelers reinforce this, with one saying, “It was beautiful, Hoi An and the old town are amazing — the boat with the lanterns is a highlight!”

We also appreciate the balance offered by this experience—visiting some famous sites, enjoying the river, and having free time to wander the lantern streets. The small group size and flexible hours make it manageable for different types of travelers, whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with family.

Practical Tips for Making the Most of Your Tour

• Visit in the late afternoon or early evening to enjoy both the sightseeing and lantern release; note that some sites close at night.
• Compare prices if you’re budget-conscious; tickets are available nearby for potentially less.
• Bring a camera—the lantern glow over the river is stunning and perfect for photos.
• Wear comfortable shoes; walking through old streets involves uneven cobblestones.
• Plan your day accordingly, as this tour ends back at the meeting point, so consider your next destination.

More Great Tours Nearby

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour for You?

This package offers a well-priced and authentic glimpse into Hoi An’s most picturesque moments. It’s ideal if you want a guided approach to the town’s highlights without missing the romantic lantern tradition. The combination of cultural sites and peaceful river scenes makes it a very balanced experience—especially suited for first-time visitors or travelers seeking a snapshot of the town’s soul.

If you’re after a comprehensive sightseeing tour or prefer to explore independently, you might find the cost a little higher than buying tickets on your own. But for many, the ease of booking, included experiences, and authentic ambiance justify the price.

Finally, the reviews highlight that the lantern boat ride is genuinely stunning and a highlight of any visit to Hoi An. The knowledgeable guides and beautiful views make this experience a memorable part of any Vietnam itinerary.

FAQ

What does the tour include?
It includes an entrance ticket to 5 of the 25 sightseeing spots in Hoi An Old Town, a 20-minute boat lantern release on the Hoai River, a flower lantern, and a soft drink.

Can I visit all the sights in Old Town with this ticket?
No, you can visit five selected sites with the ticket, but there are 25 sights total. It provides a good overview but not access to every location.

What is the best time to do the lantern boat ride?
Most travelers prefer the late afternoon or early evening when the lanterns are lit, and the town’s atmosphere is at its most enchanting.

Is the boat ride included in the ticket price?
Yes, the boat lantern release is included, and it lasts about 20 minutes.

Are there any additional costs I should be aware of?
Not for the main parts of this tour. However, tickets for other sights may be purchased separately, usually at a lower cost if bought directly.

Can I buy tickets on-site instead?
Yes, tickets are available nearby for less, but booking in advance offers convenience and ensures availability during busy times.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes for walking, and perhaps a light jacket if visiting in the cooler months or evening. Bring your camera for photos of the lanterns.

To sum it up, this Hoi An Old Town Entrance + Lantern Release Tour offers a well-rounded, affordable way to explore Vietnam’s charming ancient town while experiencing its most iconic tradition—the floating lanterns—an absolute highlight for many travelers. Perfect for those looking to combine sightseeing with a peaceful river moment, it delivers both visual beauty and cultural authenticity in a format that’s straightforward and enjoyable.

You can check availability for your dates here: