Exploring the enchanting beauty of Hoi An at night is a must-do experience for any traveler visiting Vietnam. This ancient town transforms into a captivating tapestry of lights and colors, inviting visitors to stroll through its picturesque streets and uncover the rich history and culture that lies within. The highlight of the evening? Embarking on a serene boat ride and participating in the magical tradition of releasing paper lanterns – a symbolic gesture of hope and wishes. What makes this tour truly special, however, is the expert guidance that promises to unveil the true essence of this UNESCO World Heritage site.
Key Points
- This 4-hour guided tour offers an immersive cultural experience in Hoi An after dark, including a visit to the ancient town, a boat ride, and a night market exploration.
- The tour includes a 2-hour guided walking tour of Hoi An Ancient Town, covering key sites and landmarks, and a 30-minute boat cruise to Impressions Bridge.
- Travelers can explore the Hoi An Night Market and have the opportunity to release paper lanterns, which are a significant part of the city’s cultural heritage.
- The tour is led by an English-speaking guide who provides historical and cultural commentary, enhancing the overall experience.
- The tour includes hotel pickup in Hoi An, but an additional fee applies for pickup from Da Nang, and food and drinks are not included in the price.
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Tour Overview and Pricing
This Hoi An City by Night tour offers travelers an enchanting evening experience, with a price range from Kč1,191 per person.
The 4-hour guided tour includes a visit to the Hoi An Ancient Town, a boat ride to release floating lanterns on the Hoai River, and exploration of the local night market.
Travelers can enjoy this immersive cultural activity with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
The tour also provides hotel pickup in Hoi An, while an additional fee applies for pickup from Da Nang.
With its highlights and inclusions, this night tour promises an unforgettable glimpse into the charming ambiance of Hoi An after dark.
Itinerary and Highlights
The Hoi An City by Night tour begins at 3:30 pm with pickups from hotels in the Hoi An area.
Guests will start with a 2-hour guided walking tour of Hoi An Ancient Town, exploring highlights like the Japanese Bridge, Old House of Tan Ky, and Fujian Assembly Hall.
Next, they’ll take a 30-minute boat cruise to Impressions Bridge.
The tour culminates with time to explore the lively Hoi An Night Market and release paper lanterns on the Hoai River.
Throughout the evening, the English-speaking guide will provide commentary on the history and culture of this charming UNESCO World Heritage site.
Included and Additional Costs
The Hoi An City by Night tour includes a pickup from hotels in Hoi An, an English-speaking guide, a boat trip, and the release of paper lanterns on the Hoai River.
However, there are a few additional costs to be aware of:
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For pickup and drop-off from Da Nang, there’s an extra charge of $20 USD (500,000 VND), payable directly to the tour guide.
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The tour package doesn’t include any food or drinks, so travelers will need to budget for their own meals and refreshments.
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Entrance fees to the Hoi An ancient town are included, but any other optional activities or purchases are at the traveler’s own expense.
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Travelers should also factor in any tips they wish to give the tour guide or boat crew.
Pickup and Drop-off Locations
The Hoi An City by Night tour offers pickup locations from both Da Nang and Hoi An. Travelers have the option to be picked up from their hotel in either city. There’s an extra charge of $20 USD (500,000 VND) for pickup and drop-off from Da Nang, payable directly to the tour guide.
| Pickup Location | Pickup Time | Drop-off Location | Drop-off Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Da Nang | 3:30 PM | Da Nang | 7:30 PM |
| Hoi An | 3:30 PM | Hoi An | 7:30 PM |
| Hotel in Da Nang | 3:30 PM | Hotel in Da Nang | 7:30 PM |
| Hotel in Hoi An | 3:30 PM | Hotel in Hoi An | 7:30 PM |
| Central Hoi An | 3:30 PM | Central Hoi An | 7:30 PM |
Tour Duration and Cancellation Policy
The Hoi An City by Night tour lasts 4 hours in total. This allows ample time to explore the ancient town, admire the iconic Japanese Bridge, visit the Old House of Tan Ky, and take a boat cruise on the Hoai River to release floating lanterns.
The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, providing flexibility for travelers’ plans.
Additionally:
- Booking can be made with no upfront payment, allowing you to reserve your spot and pay later.
- Pickup is available from hotels in Hoi An, with an additional fee for pickup from Da Nang.
- Comfortable attire is recommended, and certain dress codes apply within the ancient town.
- The duration and cancellation policy make this a convenient and hassle-free nighttime experience in Hoi An.
Dress Code and Recommendations
Travelers should wear comfortable, practical attire for the Hoi An City by Night tour. The tour guide recommends avoiding short skirts, sleeveless shirts, and see-through clothing. This is to ensure appropriate dress for visiting religious and cultural sites.
Plus, bringing sunglasses, a sun hat, and insect repellent is advised to protect against the elements. Comfortable walking shoes are a must, as the tour involves a guided walking exploration of Hoi An’s ancient town.
Customer Feedback and Ratings
Positive feedback from travelers is evident in the overall 4/5 rating of the Hoi An City by Night tour based on 2 reviews.
The tour seems to appeal to a variety of travelers, including couples, groups of friends, solo travelers, and families.
Some key takeaways from the reviews:
- David from the United Kingdom praised the tour, suggesting it was an excellent experience.
- A GetYourGuide traveler from the United States also left a positive review.
- Travelers appreciated the guided walking tour, sampan boat ride, and opportunity to release floating lanterns.
- The tour’s highlights, such as the Ancient Town, Japanese Bridge, and Hoi An Night Market, seem to have resonated with participants.
Activity Description and Experiences
Though the Hoi An City by Night tour offers a diverse array of experiences, the heart of the activity lies in its guided walking exploration of the historic Ancient Town.
Over two hours, travelers will discover the quaint streets, historic architecture, and vibrant night markets that make this UNESCO World Heritage Site so captivating.
They’ll also enjoy a 30-minute boat trip along the Hoai River, where they’ll have the chance to release colorful paper lanterns onto the serene waters.
Rounding out the experience are visits to iconic landmarks like the Japanese Bridge and Fujian Assembly Hall.
Throughout, an expert guide provides insights into the town’s rich cultural heritage.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is It Safe to Release Paper Lanterns on the River?
Releasing paper lanterns on rivers can be a fire hazard, as they’re highly flammable and can drift into nearby structures or vegetation. Travelers should exercise caution and follow local regulations to ensure a safe and responsible experience.
Are the Paper Lanterns Provided or Do I Need to Bring My Own?
According to the tour details, the paper lanterns are included in the tour price. Participants don’t need to bring their own lanterns, as the guided boat trip on the Hoai River includes the release of paper lanterns provided by the tour operator.
Can I Take Photographs During the Tour?
Participants can take photographs throughout the tour. The tour includes a guided walking tour of Hoi An’s historic sites and a boat ride to release paper lanterns, providing ample opportunities for taking pictures.
Is This Tour Suitable for Children?
The tour appears suitable for children, as it includes guided walking, a boat ride, and lantern releasing activities. However, parents should consider the 4-hour duration and ensure their children are comfortable with the itinerary and attire requirements.
Are There Any Dietary Restrictions for the Local Food Sampling?
The tour overview does not mention any dietary restrictions for the local food sampling. Travelers with dietary needs should inquire with the tour operator about accommodating any special requirements prior to booking.
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Recap
Enjoy the enchanting beauty of Hoi An at night. Stroll through the ancient town, witness the vibrant lights, and take a serene boat ride on the Hoai River. Culminate the experience by releasing paper lanterns, symbolizing your hopes and wishes. This tour promises an unforgettable evening in a captivating setting, leaving you with lasting memories of Hoi An’s rich history and culture.