Coloured lanterns are a symbol of Hoi An. Here locals believe they bring happiness, luck, and wealth. Why not join a lantern-making class and craft your own? Select from a variety of silks and work with an instructor to create your own bamboo-framed lantern. The class also includes a delightful Vietnamese tea tasting, making it a memorable and enriching activity.

Also known as Holy See, Cao Dai Temple is the center of Cao Dai faith, an indigenous Vietnamese religion that incorporates the teachings of Taoism, Buddhism, Confucianism as well as part of Islam and Christianity. The balcony on the 2nd floor is the best vantage point from which the religious ceremony can be viewed.

Although Hoi An is perfectly walkable, cycling is an easy way of getting around, if your itinerary extends beyond the Old Town (including An Bang Beach). The Hoi An Old Town is closed off to all motorised traffic (including motorbikes) on most days, between 8.30 and 11.00 and then again 15.00 to 21.30, which means streets can be comfortably navigated by cyclists and pedestrians. Many hotels and guest houses offer bike rental services (or even complimentary bicycle use in some cases), but multiple bike rental shops operate throughout town as well. Prices are normally very reasonable and can be as low as 1 USD per day (depending on the bike). Single-gear bikes will suffice for cycling through town, but mountain bikes are recommended for those who wish to venture into the countryside. While locals will often be seen riding without helmets on, we recommend asking for one at your bike hire provider to ensure safety.

Formerly the main street of Hoi An's French Quarter, Phan Bội Châu is currently going through a renaissance: art galleries, exhibition spaces and sophisticated craft boutiques have opened here, bringing the street to the forefront of the town's cultural life. If you only have time for one gallery visit, make it the Precious Heritage Art Gallery Museum. Brainchild of the acclaimed travel photographer Réhahn, the space contains an exhibition of his finest work – photographs taken across Vietnam that seemingly lay bare the souls of their subjects – as well as an impressive collection of authentic garments worn by various ethnic groups across the country. There is a printed guide to the area's venues that can be picked up free of charge at many locations across town.