January
22°C ~ 72°F
20 days of rain
Crowds: Moderate
Hoi An Night Market and Lantern Boats
Evening stalls, floating paper lanterns and boat rides on the Hoai River.
- Location
- Hoi An
- Time needed
- 1 – 2 hours
- Entry fee
- 150,000 – 200,000 VND
- Best months
- Feb – May
Overview
Each evening the old town fills with lanterns, and the night market near the Hoai River sells souvenirs, snacks and lamps. Visitors buy a paper lantern with a candle, and many take a short boat ride to set it afloat on the river.
Boat prices depend on the size of the boat and the length of the ride, so agree on the price before you board. The old town is busiest around dusk. The lanterns on the river are also at their best on the full-moon night.
Highlights
- Floating a paper lantern on the river
- Lantern-lit streets
- Night market stalls and snacks
- Evening views of the old town
Visitor information
| Opening hours | Evenings, from dusk until late |
|---|---|
| Entry fee | Night market: free to walk Lantern boat: about 150,000 – 200,000 VND for a small boat (about 20 min); about 220,000 – 300,000 VND for a larger boat Paper lantern: about 5,000 – 20,000 VND |
| Time needed | 1 – 2 hours |
| Best time of day | Evening, after sunset |
| Good for | Couples, families, photographers |
| Accessibility | Flat streets; boats need a step down |
| Facilities | Food stalls, cafes, toilets nearby |
Prices and hours can change. Check the official source before you go.
Best time to visit
Weather in Hoi An by month.
February
22.3°C ~ 72°F
14 days of rain
Crowds: Busy
March
24.5°C ~ 76°F
9 days of rain
Crowds: Busy
April
26.8°C ~ 80°F
7 days of rain
Crowds: Busy
May
28.7°C ~ 84°F
14 days of rain
Crowds: Moderate
June
30°C ~ 86°F
13 days of rain
Crowds: Moderate
July
29.5°C ~ 85°F
16 days of rain
Crowds: Busy
August
29.6°C ~ 85°F
18 days of rain
Crowds: Busy
September
27.8°C ~ 82°F
23 days of rain
Crowds: Moderate
October
26°C ~ 79°F
26 days of rain
Crowds: Quiet
November
24.7°C ~ 76°F
24 days of rain
Crowds: Quiet
December
22.7°C ~ 73°F
26 days of rain
Crowds: Moderate
How to get there
- From Hoi An centre
In the old town by the Hoai River, a short walk from the Japanese Covered Bridge.
- Hoi An Night Market and Lantern Boats
Tips before you go
- Agree on the boat price first
- Go just after sunset
- Keep an eye on your bag in crowds
- Check if the old town ticket is checked after dusk
Location
Hoi An Ancient Town
More attractions in Hoi An
FAQs
How much is a lantern boat in Hoi An?
About 150,000 – 200,000 VND for a small boat (about 20 minutes) and 220,000 – 300,000 VND for a larger one.
Is the night market free?
Yes, you only pay for what you buy.
When is it best?
After sunset.