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The Peaceful Shores of Hoi An, Vietnam

Updated June 24, 2026 – Planning a trip to Vietnam? The best things to do in Hoi An include exploring the lantern-lit Ancient Town, relaxing on An Bang Beach, and tasting local Cao Lau noodles. To navigate these attractions seamlessly, we highly recommend purchasing a high-speed Vietnam eSIM online before your arrival.

Top Things to See and Do in Hoi An


Ancient streets of Hoi An Vietnam
Fig 1. Lantern-lit streets create a magical atmosphere in Hoi An’s ancient town.

Hoi An’s timeless charm lies in its beautifully preserved architecture, peaceful riverside setting, and rich culinary heritage. To ensure you can navigate the winding alleys without interruption, set up your mobile data with a Galactic Roam Vietnam eSIM before departure. Here are the top experiences you cannot miss:

  • Stroll through the Ancient Town to admire the centuries-old merchant houses and assembly halls.
  • Visit the Japanese Covered Bridge, an iconic 16th-century symbol of multicultural history.
  • Relax on An Bang Beach, a pristine stretch of sand perfect for sunbathing and fresh seafood.
  • Savor local delicacies like savory Cao Lau noodles and delicate white rose dumplings.
  • Take a sunset boat ride on the Thu Bon River to watch the town light up from the water.
  • Explore the bustling Night Market to shop for handmade silk lanterns and local crafts.

These essential highlights capture the very best of Hoi An. Whether you are seeking cultural immersion, coastal relaxation, or world-class street food, this historic destination delivers an unforgettable escape.

How to Stay Connected While Exploring Hoi An


Lanterns over river in Hoi An
Fig 2. Colorful lanterns illuminate the Thu Bon River, adding magic to Hoi An nights.

Having reliable internet access makes exploring Hoi An seamless and stress-free. With global eSIM adoption climbing past 1.5 billion in 2026, digital data plans have become the standard for modern travelers. Enjoy instant, high-speed connectivity across Vietnam with a premium Galactic Roam eSIM—allowing you to bypass physical SIM cards and avoid expensive roaming charges entirely.

Explore our eSIM options for Vietnam here

Vietnam’s Ha Long Bay: Nature’s Masterpiece

Ha Long Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in northern Vietnam, is a vision of mystical beauty with its emerald waters and thousands of limestone karsts rising like sentinels from the sea. Often featured in travel magazines and adventure films, this natural wonder captures the imagination of every traveler. Planning your travel to Ha Long Bay? This guide highlights the top things to know before visiting Ha Long Bay and unveils the best ways to explore its timeless seascape.

What to See and Do in Ha Long Bay


Ha Long Bay limestone karsts and emerald waters
Fig 1. Ha Long Bay’s dramatic seascape — a dreamlike world of stone towers and still waters.

Ha Long Bay’s allure lies in its surreal landscape, dotted with over 1,600 limestone islands and islets. The bay is best explored slowly, allowing time to absorb the scenery, discover hidden coves, and learn about its fascinating legends. Here are some of the must-do activities:

  • Take an overnight cruise – sleep on a traditional junk boat and wake up to the tranquility of the bay at dawn.
  • Visit Sung Sot Cave (Surprise Cave), the largest and most impressive cave in the bay, featuring dramatic stalactites and rock formations.
  • Kayak through hidden lagoons and floating villages like Cửa Vạn — experience the bay’s serenity up close.
  • Climb Ti Top Island for panoramic views — the short hike rewards you with one of the best vistas of Ha Long Bay.
  • Sample fresh seafood. What to eat in Ha Long Bay? Try grilled squid, seafood hot pot, and bánh cuốn (steamed rice rolls).
  • Explore Cat Ba Island, the largest island in the bay, home to rugged trails, beaches, and a national park filled with rare wildlife.

These are just a few of the top things to do in Ha Long Bay. Whether you’re seeking peaceful moments on the water, geological wonders, or unforgettable sunsets, Ha Long Bay promises a natural escape like no other. If you are also considering other world-class island-hopping destinations in Southeast Asia, check out our comparison of el nido vs coron to plan your next adventure.

Stay Connected While Cruising Ha Long Bay


Traveler enjoying the view in Ha Long Bay
Fig 2. A quiet moment in Ha Long Bay — where nature’s artistry is on full display.

Staying online during your Ha Long Bay adventure helps with navigation, trip planning, and capturing perfect moments to share. With Galactic Roam eSIMs, you get reliable and affordable mobile data across Vietnam—ideal for checking cruise details, finding seafood spots, or translating menus on the go. Skip the SIM card hassles and enjoy seamless connectivity from Hanoi to the bay.

Explore our eSIM options for Vietnam here

Journey Through Time and Beauty: Your Guide to Traveling in Vietnam

Vietnam, a land of timeless beauty and captivating contrasts, invites travelers to immerse themselves in its rich history, vibrant culture, and breathtaking landscapes. From the emerald waters of Ha Long Bay to the lantern-lit streets of Hoi An, and from the buzzing energy of Hanoi to the dynamic modern vibe of Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam offers an unforgettable journey. Planning your travel to Vietnam? This guide highlights the top things to know before visiting Vietnam to help you make the most of your adventure.

What to See and Do in Vietnam

Vietnam is a country that seamlessly blends natural wonders with cultural treasures. Here are some of the must-see experiences:

Ha Long Bay Vietnam view
  • Cruise through Ha Long Bay – a UNESCO World Heritage Site with towering limestone islands and emerald waters, best explored by boat.
  • Wander the Ancient Town of Hoi An – famous for its lantern-lit streets, historic houses, and tailor shops that create a truly magical atmosphere.
  • Discover Hanoi’s Old Quarter – where history, street food, and vibrant energy collide in a maze of lively alleys.
  • Travel back in time at Hue, the imperial capital, home to ancient citadels, temples, and royal tombs along the Perfume River.
  • Experience the Mekong Delta – explore floating markets, lush orchards, and river life in Vietnam’s southern heartland.
  • Savor Vietnamese cuisine. What to eat in Vietnam? Pho, banh mi, fresh spring rolls, and rich Vietnamese coffee are just the beginning of a culinary adventure.

These are only some of the top things to do in Vietnam; every region has its own unique stories, flavors, and landscapes to discover.

Stay Connected While Exploring Vietnam

Hoi An lanterns Vietnam

From navigating the bustling streets of Hanoi to finding hidden cafes in Hoi An, staying connected makes your Vietnam trip easier and more enjoyable. With Galactic Roam eSIMs, you can enjoy seamless, affordable data roaming throughout Vietnam without the hassle of hunting for SIM cards or paying expensive roaming fees. Share your experiences instantly and travel worry-free as you uncover Vietnam’s timeless beauty.

Explore our eSIM options for Vietnam here