Hoi An is one of those rare towns that feels timeless. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, it blends history, culture, and charm. Strolling through lantern-lit streets, browsing colorful markets, or gliding along the Thu Bon River never loses its magic. But what about Hoi An in November? This month brings cooler weather, softer sunlight, and a relaxed pace. Rain still comes, but it is lighter than in October. Crowds are fewer, prices drop, and the lantern festival often falls during this period. Therefore, if you dream of seeing Hoi An at its most authentic, November might be your perfect choice.
What can you find in this travel blog?
- What to Expect in Hoi An in November
- Best Things to Do in Hoi An in November
- Suggested Itineraries
- Practical Tips for Visiting Hoi An in November
- FAQs
What to Expect in Hoi An in November
Weather in November
November brings a welcome change from the hot summer and heavy rains of October. Temperatures sit between 23–28°C, which is perfect for sightseeing and outdoor dining. Humidity drops, making it much more comfortable to walk or cycle around town.
Rain is still part of the picture, but showers are usually short and refreshing rather than all-day downpours. You may find some cloudy afternoons, yet they often give way to bright mornings or golden sunsets. Beaches like An Bang remain swimmable, though waves can be rougher on some days.
Get to Hoi An and Moving Around
The nearest airport to Hoi An is Da Nang International Airport, just 30 kilometers away. From there, you can reach Hoi An in about 45 minutes by private car, taxi, or shuttle bus. Trains also stop in Da Nang, which makes it easy if you are traveling from Hue, Hanoi, or Ho Chi Minh City.
Once in Hoi An, moving around is a breeze:
-
Walking is the best way to explore Ancient Town since the streets are compact and full of charm.
-
Cycling is very popular, especially for visiting Tra Que Village or nearby rice fields.
-
Motorbike or scooter rentals give you freedom for day trips to An Bang Beach, My Son Sanctuary, or Da Nang.
-
Private car with driver is ideal if you want a comfortable, worry-free option for exploring the region.
Events and Festivals in Hoi An in November
November might not have big national holidays, but it does offer seasonal experiences that make your visit unique.
-
Lantern Festival: On the 14th day of the lunar month, the whole town switches off its electric lights. The river glows with floating lanterns, and streets fill with prayers, music, and performances. It’s quieter in November than in peak tourist months, which makes the atmosphere even more enchanting.
-
Harvest Season Activities: November is still part of the rice and vegetable harvest in Central Vietnam. Cycle out to Tra Que Village, where you can watch farmers at work or even join in planting and harvesting. Local markets are also busier and more colorful during this time.
-
Local Temple Celebrations: Smaller temples sometimes host ceremonies based on the lunar calendar. These are not widely advertised, but if you ask a guide or friendly local, you may get the chance to witness authentic rituals.
Is Hoi An Worth Visiting in November?
Absolutely. November strikes a beautiful balance in Hoi An. The weather is cooler than the hot summer months, and the heavy rains of October are easing off. Streets are calmer, hotels are more affordable, and the overall pace is slower, which gives you the chance to really take in the atmosphere.
You might encounter some rain, but it often leaves the town glistening with reflections of lanterns on wet cobblestones as something photographers and romantics love. With the Lantern Festival, countryside harvest activities, and cozy indoor experiences, November feels authentic, welcoming, and still vibrant enough for travelers who want both culture and relaxation.
How to enjoy the beach in Hoi An in November?
Hoi An’s beaches in November can be unpredictable. Some days bring sunshine and calm seas, perfect for a swim or a long walk on the sand. On other days, the waves are rough, and swimming is not recommended.
Still, An Bang Beach is worth a visit. Even if you don’t swim, you can enjoy fresh seafood at beachfront restaurants, sip a coffee with a sea view, or take a quiet stroll along the shore. With fewer tourists than in peak season, the atmosphere is peaceful and relaxed.
Best Things to Do in Hoi An in November
Embrace the Lantern-Lit Nights Without the Crowds
Unlike peak season, November offers a calmer atmosphere in Ancient Town. You can actually pause to admire the architecture, chat with local shop owners, and photograph the lantern-lit alleys without being jostled. The slower pace makes the whole experience more authentic.
Get Clothes Tailored
Hoi An is famous for its tailoring, and November is a great month to take advantage of it. Shops are less crowded compared to peak season, which means you’ll get quicker fittings, better attention, and often more affordable prices. From suits to silk dresses, you can have custom pieces ready within a couple of days.
Learn Farming During Harvest Season
November is still harvest time in the villages surrounding Hoi An. You can join a half-day farming experience, including planting herbs, picking vegetables, and learning traditional watering techniques at Tra Que Village. It’s a rare chance to experience countryside life when it’s at its most vibrant.
Take Easy Day Trips
Hoi An makes a great base for exploring Central Vietnam. In November, cooler weather makes sightseeing more pleasant. You can discover the ancient Cham ruins at My Son Sanctuary, climb Marble Mountains for stunning views, or visit Da Nang for a mix of beaches and modern city vibes
Capture Hoi An’s Post-Rain Glow
For photography lovers, November offers one of Hoi An’s most photogenic moods. After a rain shower, the streets glisten, lanterns reflect on the wet cobblestones, and the soft light is perfect for portraits. Even casual photographers will find it hard to resist pulling out their camera.
Suggested Itineraries
Option 1: How to Spend 2 Days in Hoi An
-
Day 1: Stroll through Ancient Town, visit the Japanese Covered Bridge, and pause at old merchant houses. In the evening, enjoy dinner by the river, where lanterns glow on the Thu Bon.
-
Day 2: Spend the morning cycling to Tra Que Vegetable Village. Join a cooking class and learn local recipes before relaxing in a riverside café. If your trip matches the full moon, cap the evening with the Lantern Festival.
💡Looking for a short yet meaningful escape in Hoi An? This 2-day plan takes you from Ancient Town’s iconic landmarks and lantern-lit evenings to countryside cycling and hands-on cooking classes. Whether you’re wandering through historic streets or relaxing by the river, the experience captures Hoi An’s charm in just a couple of days. Discover more with the Hoi An Stay & Play – 4 Days tour
Option 2: A Deeper 3–4 Day Hoi An Experience
- Day 1: Discover Ancient Town’s highlights, from merchant houses to hidden tea shops. End the day with riverside dining and lantern-lit views.
- Day 2: Cycle to Tra Que Vegetable Village, try your hand at farming or cooking, and spend the afternoon at a spa or tailor shop. Join the Lantern Festival in the evening if it coincides with your stay.
- Day 3: Take a day trip to My Son Sanctuary and the Marble Mountains, then return to Hoi An for dinner and perhaps a tailor fitting.
- Day 4: Enjoy a relaxing morning at An Bang Beach if conditions allow; it’s quieter and breezier than in peak months. In the evening, join a food tour to sample local specialties before your departure.
💡Spending a few days in Hoi An is just the beginning. To truly experience Vietnam’s diversity, from ancient capitals and mountain landscapes to vibrant cities and bays. The Vietnam Highlights Experience – 15 Days combines Hoi An with the country’s most iconic destinations.
At Vietnam Travel Online, we design Hoi An journeys that capture the charm of November. Picture yourself strolling through lantern-lit streets under cooler skies, cycling past lush rice fields after the harvest, and enjoying cozy riverside dinners as the town glows in the evening. Whether you’d love hands-on workshops, a night at the Hoi An Memories show, or authentic encounters in local villages, every itinerary is crafted around your pace and style. Connect with us via this form or email [email protected], and let’s create a November-perfect Hoi An experience just for you.
Practical Tips for Visiting Hoi An in November
Traveling in November comes with its perks, but preparation makes the experience even better. Here are some practical tips to keep in mind:
-
Pack smart for the weather: Bring a light rain jacket, quick-dry clothes, and waterproof footwear. Showers are common, but they rarely ruin a day if you’re ready.
-
Plan flexible activities: Outdoor trips like cycling or boat rides are best saved for clear days. Keep indoor options, such as museums or cooking classes, as backups.
-
Stay in the Ancient Town or nearby: Walking is the easiest way to explore, especially when the streets are wet. Central locations save time and effort.
-
Use bikes for the countryside: When the sun comes out, cycling through rice fields and villages is refreshing. The landscape feels especially lush in November.
-
Book accommodation early: November is shoulder season, but demand grows near year-end holidays. Early booking ensures better deals and choices.
-
Carry cash for markets: Many local shops and food stalls don’t accept cards, so small notes are handy.
FAQs
Is November a good time to visit Hoi An?
Yes. With cooler temperatures, smaller crowds, and unique cultural events, November is one of the most rewarding months to go.
Does it rain much in November?
There are showers, but they are shorter than in October. Most plans, from sightseeing to day trips, can still go ahead with minor adjustments.
Can I swim on Hoi An’s beaches?
Yes, though waves can be stronger in November. Always check conditions before swimming, and ask locals for advice.
What should I pack?
Bring light clothing, a raincoat or umbrella, and shoes for walking or cycling. A light jacket is useful for cooler evenings.
Is the Lantern Festival worth it in November?
Definitely, with fewer tourists than in peak months, the atmosphere feels more authentic and intimate. It’s a highlight of visiting at this time.
