Hoi An Riverside: An Honest Review & Practical Visit Guide

Description and is it worth visiting

Hoi An Riverside is the main promenade in the ancient city, stretching for about 550 meters along the Thu Bon River from the famous Japanese Bridge to the city market. It is an obligatory point of any visit here and the tourist epicenter of the old town, where you can feel the atmosphere of Hoi An, admire rows of old yellow houses, and take a boat ride. The walking zone runs right along the riverbank on Bach Dang Street, which is considered the historical and more traditional part of the riverside.

However, a stroll here today will not be peaceful. In the evenings, it's very crowded with tourists, and local touts actively offer boat rides, floating lantern launches, or bicycle rentals, which can be slightly tiring if you're in the mood for leisurely contemplation. On the other hand, it's convenient if you are looking for such a service – everything is available right on the spot.

If you want to avoid the biggest crowds, you should plan your walk during the daytime. After 17:00, the riverside becomes very lively not only because of tourists staying in the city but also due to arriving tour groups from Da Nang, and it can be genuinely crowded in places. Prices in cafes and restaurants here are, of course, higher than in the side streets, but not exorbitant. From experience, draft local beer can be found from 45,000 dong per liter!!! (1.71 USD), and for simple dishes like pho or pancakes, they will ask from 100,000 dong (3.8 USD). More complex items with seafood or meat will cost from 200,000 dong (7.59 USD). The place is certainly tourist-oriented, but the unique atmosphere of the evening riverside with lanterns fully justifies the slightly inflated prices. This experience is exactly what people come to Hoi An for.