Discover Must-Visit Ancient Towns in Vietnam: National Geographic’s Top Picks

If I were to pinpoint what drew me to Hoi An, it would undoubtedly be the enchanting ancient town, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the 50 must-visit places in a lifetime, as acclaimed by National Geographic. The vibrant hues, weathered French colonial architecture, and the magical glow of lanterns that light up the entire area from the river to the old town at night create an utterly captivating scene!

The lively and picturesque spots in Hoi An are primarily clustered along two or three streets by the river. Here’s my recommended photography route:
📍Life4cuts photo booth: Just a stone’s throw from the entrance of the ancient town, this is a great starting point. While most lantern-adorned spots in the old town require queuing for photos, this place remains blissfully uncrowded.

📍Sunday in Hoi An boutique: Nestled next to the iconic Japanese Covered Bridge, the lanterns 🏮 at the door and the cascading cherry blossoms 🌸 from the roof make for a truly spectacular backdrop.
📍Ancient town streets: Choose a section with unique charm. For those serene, empty street shots, an early morning start is essential 😅

🚗 Hoi An is about 20 kilometers from Da Nang, with a drive time of around 50 minutes. I opted for a private car service from [San Ba Travel], which provided a 10-hour journey from Da Nang, complete with a Chinese-speaking driver and a knowledgeable tour guide. It was an excellent choice!
📌 Recommended duration of stay: 1-2 days