Hoi An and My Son Sanctuary are two prominent destinations in Quang Nam, attracting tourists by their ancient beauty and unique cultural values. If you are planning and want to know exactly about Hoi An - My Son travel review, this article by FVG Travel will provide you with the necessary information to have a complete journey.
1. Overview of Hoi An - My Son
1.1 Hoi An
Hoi An is an ancient town located on the Thu Bon River, famous for its ancient architecture, shimmering lanterns and rich cuisine. As a World Cultural Heritage recognized by UNESCO, Hoi An not only attracts domestic and foreign tourists by its nostalgic beauty, but also by its peaceful atmosphere, friendly people and cultural experiences imbued with Vietnamese identity.
1.2 My Son Sanctuary
My Son is an ancient Cham temple complex located in Duy Xuyen district, Quang Nam province, about 40km from Hoi An. Known as the “Holy Land of the Cham people”, My Son was once an important religious and political center of the ancient Champa kingdom. In 1999, this place was recognized by UNESCO as a World Cultural Heritage for its unique historical and architectural values.
2. Ideal time to travel to Hoi An - My Son
The weather in Hoi An and My Son is divided into two distinct seasons: dry season (January to August) and rainy season (September to December). According to personal experience, the period from February to May is the most ideal. At this time, the weather is mild and not too hot, very suitable for exploring Hoi An ancient town in the evening or visiting My Son during the day. In particular, if you come on the 14th day of the lunar month, Hoi An ancient town will be filled with shimmering lantern lights, creating an unforgettable scene.
3. Instructions on how to get to Hoi An and My Son
3.1 From major cities to Hoi An
Hoi An is about 30km from Da Nang, so you can fly to Da Nang International Airport, then travel by the following means:
- Bus: The Da Nang - Hoi An route (price about 20,000 - 30,000 VND) is an economical choice. The bus runs from 5:30 am to 5:50 pm every day.
- Taxi/Grab: Price ranges from 300,000 - 400,000 VND for one way, suitable for groups.
- Motorbike: Rent a motorbike in Da Nang (about 120,000 - 150,000 VND/day) to freely explore. The road to Hoi An is easy to travel, the scenery on both sides of the road is also very beautiful.
3.2 From Hoi An to My Son
My Son is about 40km from Hoi An. You can choose the following ways to travel:
- Group tour: Many travel companies in Hoi An organize day tours to My Son (price from 200,000 - 400,000 VND/person, including shuttle bus and tour guide).
- Motorbike: The road to My Son is quite flat, suitable for those who like to travel. Remember to bring a helmet and check the vehicle before going.
- Self-driving car: If you are traveling with your family, you can rent a self-driving car (price from 800,000 VND/day) for more comfort.
4. Accommodation when traveling to Hoi An - My Son
Hoi An is famous for its diverse accommodation options, from homestays to luxury hotels, meeting all the needs of tourists. Here are some suggestions for accommodation for your Hoi An - My Son trip:
- Homestay: Some popular suggestions are Cococha Homestay or Maison Vy - standing out with its intimate space and Hoi An-style design.
- 3-5 star hotel: FIVITEL Hoi An is an ideal destination for tourists looking for comfort and high-class amenities. The hotel is located near Cua Dai beach, only about 10 minutes from the center of the old town, very convenient for both relaxing and exploring Hoi An. FIVITEL stands out with its modern space, outdoor swimming pool, restaurant serving Asian - European cuisine, and friendly 4-star service. Room rates range from 800,000 - 1,500,000 VND/night.
- Some other high-end hotels: Allegro Hoi An, La Siesta Resort, all have prime locations and are highly rated on travel platforms.
Fivitel Hoi An Hotel - an ideal stopover for tourists when coming to Hoi An
5. Review of places to visit and have fun
Hoi An Ancient
Town Hoi An Ancient Town is the heart of the city, recognized by UNESCO as a World Cultural Heritage. Some places not to be missed:
- Cau Pagoda: The symbol of Hoi An with unique Japanese architecture. You should visit in the evening to see the bridge lit up.
- Phuc Kien Assembly Hall: Standing out with its red color and sophisticated architecture, it is an ideal place to learn about spiritual culture.
- Tan Ky Ancient House: The house is over 200 years old, preserving many valuable artifacts, providing an insight into the history of Hoi An.
- Hoai River: Don't forget to experience releasing flower lanterns on the river in the evening (price is about 10,000 - 20,000 VND/lantern).
My Son Sanctuary
My Son is an ancient Cham Pa temple complex, also recognized by UNESCO. Coming here, you will be impressed by:
- Unique architecture: The red brick towers were built without mortar, demonstrating the talent of the ancient Cham people.
- Mysterious space: Located in a valley surrounded by mountains and forests, My Son brings a peaceful, sacred feeling.
- Cham dance performance: If you are lucky, you can watch traditional dances right at the relic site (usually taking place in the morning).
- Note: Entrance ticket to My Son sanctuary is about 150,000 VND/person. You should wear sneakers and bring water because this area is quite large and has many stairs.
6. Special cuisine to try when traveling to Hoi An - My Son
Hoi An - My Son cuisine is not only about dishes, but also about cultural stories told through each flavor. Here are some must-try dishes:
- Cao Lau: Crispy noodles, served with pork, raw vegetables and rich broth.
- Ba Be Restaurant (Tran Phu Street) is a famous address, priced at around 40,000 VND/bowl.
- Phuong Bread: Hoi An bread is world famous for its filling. Price is only from 25,000 - 40,000 VND/loaf.
- Quang Noodles: A typical noodle dish with a sweet broth, served with shrimp, chicken or pork.
- Di Hat Quang Noodles Restaurant (Thai Phien Street) is worth a try.
- Green bean cake: A sweet souvenir, priced at around 50,000 VND/box.
In addition, you can visit Hoi An market to enjoy snacks such as corn sweet soup, banh beo, or herbal drinks for only 10,000 - 20,000 VND.
Tip: When ordering drinks at riverside shops, ask for the price first to avoid being charged more.
7. Notes when traveling to Hoi An - My Son
- Dress: Wear formal clothes when entering relic sites such as Assembly Hall or My Son. Wear comfortable shoes because you will have to walk quite a lot.
- Time: Spend at least 2 days and 1 night to explore both Hoi An and My Son. If you want to combine Da Nang or Hue, plan 3-4 days.
- Cost: A 3-day, 2-night self-guided trip for 1 person is estimated at 3,500,000 - 4,500,000 VND, including transportation, food, accommodation and entrance tickets.
- Shopping: Don't forget to bargain when buying souvenirs such as lanterns and pottery at Hoi An market to get the best price.
Conclusion
Traveling to Hoi An - My Son is a journey that brings you back to meaningful cultural and historical values, while also bringing moments of relaxation and fun. Hopefully this Hoi An - My Son travel review will help you have a complete and memorable trip in 2025. Get ready and start exploring right away!
If you have more time, you can continue to explore Dong Giang Heaven Gate - a new destination about 100km from Hoi An. Located in the middle of the green mountains of Dong Giang district, Heaven Gate not only stands out with its majestic mountain scenery but is also a place to experience the indigenous culture of the Co Tu people through traditional craft villages and unique cuisine. This will be a great highlight to end your Quang Nam journey.
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