Hoi An’s charming streets, historic architecture, and lively markets make it a perfect city for exploring on foot. Its narrow lanes and hidden corners reveal stories from centuries past, and walking tours offer a chance to see the city at a relaxed pace. Whether you’re after a culinary experience, a cultural deep dive, or an offbeat backstreet walk, Hoi An’s tour options are as diverse as its lantern-lit nights. We particularly love the Evening Walking Food Tour for its combination of street eats and cultural activities, and the Street Food Walking Tour for a quick, tasty introduction to local flavors. For a broader history lesson, the UNESCO Heritage Site Walk takes you through the city’s most iconic sites with insightful commentary.
Quick Overview
The list below covers a variety of walking tours including food-focused explorations, heritage and cultural walks, evening lantern cruises, and backstreet adventures. Many tours include local guides, some feature private options, and a few combine walking with boat rides or market visits. Check out the full list to find one that suits your interests and schedule, like the popular Evening Walking Food Tour or the affordable Heritage Site Walk.
1. Evening Walking Food Tour, folk game and lantern boat
This tour is a hit for those wanting to experience Hoi An’s nightlife and food scene in one go. Over about four hours, you’ll walk through the illuminated streets, stopping at hand-picked food spots for Vietnamese specialties like Banh Mi, White Rose Dumplings, and Cao Lau noodles. What sets this apart is the small group size (limited to 12), ensuring personalized attention. You’ll also enjoy a river boat ride under lantern-lit skies and participate in fun activities like bingo or breaking pots, adding a playful touch to your evening.
What makes this tour particularly appealing is the mix of culinary discovery and cultural entertainment. Travelers consistently praise the guide’s engaging style, with reviews noting the excellent food, local insights, and fun games. At $39, it offers a great value for those eager to explore Hoi An’s nighttime charm in an intimate setting. Just come hungry—the food volume is generous.
Bottom Line: Perfect for food lovers and night owls seeking an authentic, lively experience with plenty of food, culture, and fun.
2. Hoi An UNESCO Heritage Site Walk Tour
This three-hour walk is ideal for travelers curious about Hoi An’s architectural and multicultural past. Led by a knowledgeable local guide, you’ll visit iconic sites like the Japanese Covered Bridge, Cantonese Assembly Hall, and the Japanese Culture Gallery. The tour also ventures into less obvious corners, revealing hidden gems and stories about preservation efforts.
Guests rave about the guide’s detailed explanations and the opportunity to see colorful buildings and cultural influences firsthand. The tour’s affordability—at just over $22—makes it attractive for those on a budget, while its focus on history and local stories offers a meaningful way to understand Hoi An beyond surface-level sights. It’s especially suited for history buffs or anyone wanting a rundown in a short period.
Bottom Line: A well-rounded introduction to Hoi An’s heritage sites and cultural influences, great for history lovers and first-timers.
3. Hoi An Street Food Walking Tour with Tastings
For about four hours, this tour gives you a guided stroll through Hoi An’s bustling streets, with stops at hidden food stalls to sample local delicacies. Led by a friendly guide, you’ll learn what makes each dish special and how street food reflects local life. Tastings include favorites like spring rolls, egg coffee, and Banh Mi—perfect for those wanting a hands-on culinary experience.
Guests frequently mention how knowledgeable guides enhance the experience, sharing cultural stories alongside food tastings. The price of $35 offers good value, especially since dinner is included, and the pace is relaxed enough for engaging conversations. It’s ideal for foodies or travelers wanting a taste of authentic street cuisine beyond tourist menus.
Bottom Line: A flavorful exploration that combines local food with cultural insights, perfect for those wanting to eat like a local.
4. Hoi An Walking Tour
This four-hour tour offers a comprehensive walk through the heart of Hoi An, including landmarks like the Japanese Covered Bridge and Fukian Assembly Hall. It’s designed for travelers who want a balanced mix of history and culture without the fuss of large groups. The guide provides a detailed overview of the town’s development and architecture, making it suitable for history enthusiasts.
With a strong 5-star rating based on 129 reviews, visitors praise the informative narration and the well-paced itinerary. The tour’s value at $49 includes visits to important sites and insider stories that deepen your understanding of the town’s unique character. If you prefer a relaxed but thorough experience, this tour hits the right notes.
Bottom Line: A solid, in-depth walk for those wanting a cultural and historic overview without rushing.
5. Hoi An Ancient Town – Walking Tour with Local Guide
For a light, informal introduction, this short walk is perfect. It’s a cozy tour that emphasizes storytelling, offering insights into Hoi An’s lifestyle, local recommendations, and small shops. You’ll visit key sites like the Japanese Bridge and enjoy a tea break with dessert.
Rated highly for its friendly guide and relaxed pace, this is best suited for travelers who want a taste of the town without a lengthy commitment. At just $12 per person, it’s very affordable and offers a personalized experience with insider tips for restaurants and shopping.
Bottom Line: Great for travelers seeking an easy, social way to experience Hoi An’s highlights.
6. Hoi An Walking Street Food – Private Tour
This private street food tour provides a personalized exploration of Hoi An’s night market and hidden street stalls. Over 3 to 4 hours, your guide takes you to local favorites off the beaten path, trying a variety of delicious snacks. The tour wraps up with a walk through the night market, checking out handicrafts and local products.
Guests love the flexibility and tailored experience, with reviews highlighting how the guide uncovers authentic eateries most travelers miss. At $55, it’s a bit pricier but offers intimate insights and plenty of food. It’s perfect if you want a customized culinary adventure with fewer people.
Bottom Line: A premium, private experience ideal for foodies and those wanting a personalized discovery.
7. PRIVATE Hoi An Street Food Walking Tour on afternoon or Night
Ideal for travelers seeking flexibility, this private tour can be scheduled in the afternoon or evening. It combines cultural sights like the Japanese Covered Bridge with street food tastings. You’ll enjoy customized routes and plenty of local food options, all led by your personal guide.
Guests note this tour’s tailored approach and the opportunity to adapt the experience to personal interests. At $39 per person, it’s an excellent choice for independent travelers who want a bespoke exploration of Hoi An’s food and sights.
Bottom Line: For those wanting a private, flexible experience, this tour provides tailored insights and culinary delights.
8. Hoi An Street Walking Food Tours
A popular 3-hour tour among foodies, this walk explores Hoi An’s street food scene led by a local guide. Sample dishes like white rose, spring rolls, and egg coffee while discovering iconic landmarks. The tour runs daily, rain or shine, making it easy to plan.
Reviewers highlight the delicious food, informative narration, and the easy pace. At $38, it’s an affordable way to taste multiple dishes and get local tips. It’s particularly suited for those who want a short, tasty introduction to Hoi An’s cuisine.
Bottom Line: Excellent for a quick, flavorful introduction to local street food with a friendly guide.
9. Marble Mountains & Hoian Walking Tour
This full-day tour combines scenic visits to the Marble Mountains and Hoi An’s ancient town. Traveling in a comfortable minivan, you’ll explore caves, pagodas, and statues carved into the mountains, then enjoy a bicycle ride through peaceful rural areas.
Rated highly, this tour offers more than just city sights—it’s a chance to see natural beauty and local life outside the town. The lunch included adds to the value at $90, making it a great pick for those wanting a comprehensive day trip.
Bottom Line: A rich full-day experience ideal for scenery lovers and adventure seekers.
10. Hoi An Walking Tour – Private Tour
This private 2-3 hour walk offers a personalized deep dive into Hoi An’s historic sites. It covers places like the History Museum, Quan Thang House, and Phuc Kien Assembly Hall. With a flexible itinerary, your guide can tailor the experience to your interests.
Guests appreciate the customized approach and the in-depth explanations. At $69 per person, it’s suited for travelers who prefer a private, tailored experience that covers specific sites or themes. It’s perfect for those wanting more control over what they see and learn.
Bottom Line: A customizable, private tour for history and culture enthusiasts.
11. Hoi An Cheap Walking Food Tour
This budget-friendly 2.5-hour tour is perfect for foodies with limited time or budget. It focuses on cheap eats like rice dumplings, spring rolls, and local snacks, giving a snapshot of everyday Vietnamese street food.
Reviewers love its affordable price ($29), friendly guide, and generous portions. It’s ideal for travelers who want to sample diverse dishes without a long commitment and who enjoy authentic local flavors.
Bottom Line: A great-value tour that captures the essence of Hoi An’s street food scene.
12. Hoi An town private walking tour with boat trip
This private tour combines walking with a short boat ride, offering an intimate look at Hoi An’s markets, artifacts, and river scenery. Starting with a visit to the local market and Fukian Assembly Hall, it concludes with a pleasurable boat cruise along the Thu Bon River.
Guests especially enjoy the personalized attention and the chance to experience local trade and river views without the crowds. At $38, it balances cost and experience well, making it ideal for independent travelers who want a mix of cultural sights and scenic moments.
Bottom Line: A well-rounded, private experience perfect for those wanting local life and river scenery.
13. Cham Island: Underwater Walking & Snorkeling Tour
For a full 7-8 hours, this tour takes you to Cham Island for snorkeling, underwater walking, and sea life discovery. It includes a delicious seafood lunch and marine encounters suitable for all levels.
Rated 4.4 stars, many appreciate the professional staff, organized logistics, and variety of marine life seen during the trip. The tour’s long duration makes it best for adventurous travelers with a full day to spare. The sea experiences are especially captivating if you love ocean activities.
Bottom Line: Perfect for sea lovers wanting a full-day underwater adventure in a beautiful setting.
14. Hoi An Off the Map – Walking Tour in the Backstreets
This 3-hour private walk offers a deep look into local life beyond the tourist spots. You’ll visit hidden alleys, Hoi An Prison, and local workshops, gaining insights into Vietnam’s wartime and current trades.
Guests praise the insider knowledge and personalized stories shared by the guide, making this a truly authentic experience. At $23, it’s an affordable way to see the real Hoi An and meet locals in their everyday environment.
Bottom Line: An informative, personalized tour ideal for curious travelers wanting authentic insights.
15. Unseen Hoi An Ancient Town – Food & Culture Walking Tour
This morning exploration takes you through back alleys and small streets, uncovering local food and hidden stories. You’ll visit Cao Lau factories, local markets, and taste authentic dishes like Vietnamese baguettes.
Rated 5 stars, travelers love the rich, local experiences and insider tips. The 3-4 hour tour is suited for those wanting a deeper understanding of daily life in Hoi An beyond the tourist sights.
Bottom Line: Ideal for culinary enthusiasts and curious explorers eager to see Hoi An’s unseen sides.
How to Choose the Best Walking Tour in Hoi An
Picking the right tour depends on your interests, budget, and time. If you’re after a culinary adventure, the Evening Food Tour or Street Food Tours are excellent choices. For those eager to explore heritage sites and local architecture, the UNESCO Heritage Walk provides a thorough overview.
Travelers with limited time might prefer shorter options like the Heritage Site Walk or the Town Walking Tour. If you’re interested in a private experience, the Private Street Food Tour or Private Walking Tour offer customization and in-depth insight.
Consider your fitness level—some tours include bicycle rides or longer walks, while others are more relaxed. Booking early is advised, especially during peak seasons, to secure your preferred times and guides.
In summary, Hoi An offers a rich assortment of walking tours suited for food lovers, history buffs, or adventure seekers. Whether you choose a vibrant evening food walk, a heritage-focused history stroll, or an off-the-map backstreet exploration, each experience provides a new lens on this captivating town. Consider your interests, plan ahead, and don’t hesitate to book early—these tours fill up fast!