Iconic Sights & Hidden Gems • 6 hours 5
(82)

Essential Hoi An: Famous Sights & Local Secrets

See Hoi An’s most iconic sights, then follow your host into the hidden corners and everyday spaces that show you the city behind the postcards.

Consider getting an Octopus card which can be used on all public transit, at convenience stores, and even at some coffee shops.

What makes this experience special

This experience flows from Hoi An’s iconic sights into quiet alleyways, courtyards, and lived-in spaces, revealing the contrast and rhythm that bring the city’s full story to life.

Key highlights

  • Cross the Japanese Bridge, then veer into quiet alleyways
  • Peek into lantern workshops tucked behind mossy courtyards
  • Skim the edge of a market without souvenir stalls
  • Pause at a shaded pagoda hidden behind tiled walls
  • Rest in a riverside tea house or French villa café
  • Step inside a tailor’s studio or silk-draped gallery
  • Choose each turn with your host by your side

What to know before you go

Here’s everything you need to know before your day unfolds.

3 hours
Fully tailored to your preferences
English Other languages may be requested
Walking experience may use public transport for long distances

What’s included

Tailored itinerary based on your preferences
A knowledgeable host who knows the hidden gems
Flexible start times to fit your day

What’s not included

Food, drinks and shopping expenses
Transport fares or attraction entry fees

Meeting point

Japanese Covered-Bridge, Nguyễn Thị Minh Khai, Phường Minh An, Hội An, Quảng Nam 564010, Vietnam

Cancellation

Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience

What to bring

How your day could unfold

A flexible, unscripted experience designed entirely around your interests. Your host will adapt the day based on what excites you most

Here’s what your experience could look like

These are just suggestions from our hosts to inspire your day. Your host will tailor the experience to suit your interests and tastes

Meeting point

Japanese Covered-Bridge, Nguyễn Thị Minh Khai, Phường Minh An, Hội An, Quảng Nam 564010, Vietnam

Essential Hoi An: Famous Sights & Local Secrets

Japanese Covered Bridge & Alleyway Edges

Hoi An’s most famous landmark, seen differently

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Essential Hoi An: Famous Sights & Local Secrets

Start where history whispers beneath your feet. After crossing the bridge, your host might invite you to veer into alleyways where tiled rooftops meet soft shadows, and daily life lingers in the details.

Essential Hoi An: Famous Sights & Local Secrets

Handicraft Lane – Lanterns & Courtyard Workspaces

Slow craft in a quiet stretch of town

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Essential Hoi An: Famous Sights & Local Secrets

This quieter stretch of town invites a slower pace. Your host might guide you past lantern frames and wood shavings, or pause where something in the stillness catches your attention.

Essential Hoi An: Famous Sights & Local Secrets

Central Market (Brief) & Riverside Loop

Local rhythm over tourist buzz

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Essential Hoi An: Famous Sights & Local Secrets

A short walk through the market reveals quiet corners where transactions unfold in whispers, not haggles. Then maybe you'll drift along the riverside, boats, laundry, and a slower kind of story.

Essential Hoi An: Famous Sights & Local Secrets

Hidden Pagoda in a Courtyard Maze

Stillness behind a crumbling arch

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Essential Hoi An: Famous Sights & Local Secrets

Your host might suggest a turn into what feels like nowhere, until a small pagoda reveals itself in a shaded courtyard. This is a moment to pause, light incense, or simply listen to the stillness.

Essential Hoi An: Famous Sights & Local Secrets

French-Era Villa Café or Riverside Tea House

A break shaped by atmosphere

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Essential Hoi An: Famous Sights & Local Secrets

Feel like nostalgia? Choose a colonial-era villa with lazy fans. Prefer peace? Pick a spot where the river laps softly beside you. Either way, it’s a moment to rest and absorb.

Essential Hoi An: Famous Sights & Local Secrets

Silk-Lit Corner

Not a shop stop, but a moment that lingers

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Essential Hoi An: Famous Sights & Local Secrets

You might end the day somewhere quiet, where Hoi An’s gentle rhythm lingers. Even without souvenirs, you’ll leave with something—maybe a texture, a conversation, or a moment that stays.

Essential Hoi An: Famous Sights & Local Secrets

Optional Close: Thu Bon River at Dusk

Let the light tell the final tale

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Essential Hoi An: Famous Sights & Local Secrets

If you’re nearby as the sun fades, you might pause here—no plan, just golden hour and the gentle hush of a town settling in.

1. Select a date
2. Select start time
3. Tailor your experience
Answer a few quick questions to help your host craft the perfect day tailored to you.
1. What’s your preferred hosting style?
2. How would you like the pace of your day?
3. What’s your walking comfort level?
4. Are you celebrating something special?

Real Stories, Real Connections

See our hosts and guests creating memories
Unwinding by the water on a peaceful Thai boat ride

Unwinding by the water on a peaceful Thai boat ride

Hugging it out on a colourful Thai street adventure

Hugging it out on a colourful Thai street adventure

Cultural icons and warm welcomes at a historic Thai site

Cultural icons and warm welcomes at a historic Thai site

Sharing laughs in the heart of a vibrant Thai market street

Sharing laughs in the heart of a vibrant Thai market street

Street eats and good company at a local Thai food stop

Street eats and good company at a local Thai food stop

Tuk-Tuk Adventures and Smiles in Thailand

Tuk-Tuk Adventures and Smiles in Thailand

Temple views and sunshine moments in Thailand

Temple views and sunshine moments in Thailand

Evening lights and easy smiles on a Thai night out

Evening lights and easy smiles on a Thai night out

Bright skies and happy snapshots during a Thai escape

Bright skies and happy snapshots during a Thai escape

Tropical blooms and market treasures on a Thai stroll

Tropical blooms and market treasures on a Thai stroll

River breeze and good vibes on a Thai ferry ride

River breeze and good vibes on a Thai ferry ride

City stories on tracks and smiles on repeat

City stories on tracks and smiles on repeat

Where iconic meets intimate in one perfect pause.

Where iconic meets intimate in one perfect pause.

A night to remember – soaking in the sparkle of the skyline with great company

A night to remember – soaking in the sparkle of the skyline with great company

From city peaks to memory highs – a skyline framed by connection.

From city peaks to memory highs – a skyline framed by connection.

Exploring life by the water – where local charm meets skyline silhouettes.

Exploring life by the water – where local charm meets skyline silhouettes.

An effortless journey with unforgettable faces

An effortless journey with unforgettable faces

Unexpected corners, unforgettable moments.

Unexpected corners, unforgettable moments.

A toast to trails, tales, and towering skylines.

A toast to trails, tales, and towering skylines.

High above the hustle, discovering breathtaking views with those who matter most.

High above the hustle, discovering breathtaking views with those who matter most.

Standing in awe beneath timeless grandeur

Standing in awe beneath timeless grandeur

Urban Harmony in Every Smile

Urban Harmony in Every Smile

Rainforest Whispers & Waterfall Wonder

Rainforest Whispers & Waterfall Wonder

Colourful Streets & Cultural Beats

Colourful Streets & Cultural Beats

Chopsticks & Chuckles

Chopsticks & Chuckles

Above the City, Beneath the Clouds

Above the City, Beneath the Clouds

Golden Hours, Golden Rings

Golden Hours, Golden Rings

Between Columns and Culture

Between Columns and Culture

17,500+ 5-Star Reviews and Counting

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What travelers think of our Iconic Sights & Hidden Gems experiences in Asia

Alexandra Sep 2025

Great tour!

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Alexandra Sep 2025

Our Tourist guide was so nice and knew so many interesting things to tell us. We felt really confident with Jade - it was very interesting and she showed us the secrets of Hoi An. We can highly recommend her as tourist guide ❤️

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Jenny Sep 2025

Loved Lary! He was amazing and so informative. Really great to chat with and went above and beyond.

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Victoria Sep 2025

Emi did a great job taking us through Kyoto and explaining the history/sites. Able to adjust our tour with her to what we already saw & will see on other tours in the city :)

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Gloria Aug 2025

Great private tour guide, we truly enjoyed our time with Dennis. Dennis provided a well thought out schedule based on the sights that we wanted to see. We would highly recommend anyone that we know seek out Dennis as a tour guiden while visiting Hong Kong. Thanks to Dennis we had an awesome time seeing and learning about the sights.

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Lisa Aug 2025

We had the pleasure of touring Kyoto with Ada, and we couldn’t have asked for a better guide. From the start, she tailored the entire experience to our interests and pace, making the day feel personal and relaxed. Ada’s knowledge of Kyoto’s history and culture is truly impressive—she brought each site to life with fascinating stories and insights that added so much depth to what we were seeing. Beyond her expertise, Ada is simply a lovely person. Warm, thoughtful, and easy to connect with, she made us feel comfortable right away. It genuinely felt like we were spending the day with a friend who happened to be incredibly knowledgeable. If you're looking for a tour guide in Kyoto who will make the experience meaningful, informative, and enjoyable, we absolutely recommend Ada.

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FAQs

Your questions, answered

Is this a traditional tour?

No. Our experiences are unscripted and designed around you. Instead of following a rigid itinerary, your host will plan a personalized journey that feels natural, immersive, and unique.

How does personalization work?

After booking, you’ll complete a short questionnaire about your interests and travel style. We’ll match you with the best host who will tailor the experience to you. You'll have the opportunity to chat with them before the experience and agree on a plan.

Will I see famous landmarks or just hidden gems?

Both! Your host will take you to iconic sights if you want to see them, but they’ll also introduce you to places and stories most travelers miss.

What if I don’t know what I want to explore?

That’s completely fine! Select an experience theme or a flexible discovery experience, and after booking, answer a few questions so your host can design the perfect experience for you.

Can I request specific places to visit?

Yes! After booking, you will receive a questionnaire where you can highlight must-visit spots and anything else you’d like to include, and your host will craft your experience around them.

How much walking is involved?

This depends on the experience, but your host can adjust the pace to suit your comfort level.

Can I change the meeting place?

Yes, you will be in touch with your host before your experience, and you can agree on a different meeting point with them. Your host can meet you anywhere central that’s convenient.

Can my host meet me at my accommodation?

Hotel meet-ups are available upon request in central areas. If you're staying outside the city, your host will recommend the best meeting spot and guide you with directions.