Distance: 2.2 km
Twenty years since Hoi An was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this quaint port town is a magnet for the tourist hordes, but for good reason – it retains deep sense of history and photogenic charm. Venture along the tree-lined French-colonial avenues that give way to teeny Old Town backstreets flanked by winding canals, covered bridges, and historic merchant houses – you’ll still find rare moments for quiet reflection and a memorable selfie or two.
A. Chula Fashion
Originally from Hanoi, Spanish-founded Chula marries original, bold design and Vietnamese artisanal techniques, into a colourful collection of frocks, jackets and separates for her, him and child. Items are all limited edition, so be sure to buy when you spy. 11 Nguyễn Huệ, Cẩm Châu, +84 90 425 89 60, 9am-9pm daily, chulafashion.com
B. Copenhagen Delights
Kiddiwinks will adore these simple stylish multi-coloured clothing, nursery furnishings and dining accessories almost as much as you do. Scandi-designed, Vietnam made, they also have online shopping in case you don’t want to carry your stash around all day.
29 Lê Lợi, Phường Minh An, +84 235 3916 333, copenhagendelights.com
C. Metiseko Organic Cotton
This French-founded fashion mecca is a must-visit for anyone seeking sartorial satisfaction with a sustainable ethos. Prices are slightly higher than its contemporaries, but you’re buying enduringly chic pieces made from natural silk and organic cotton. The building alone merits a visit.
142 Trần Phú, Phường Minh An, +84 235 3 929 278, 8.30am-9.30pm, metiseko.com
D. Reaching Out Teahouse
Retreat from the hubbub at this oasis of tea-sipping tranquility in the middle of the Old Town. Established two decades ago with a view to helping people with disabilities learn a solid trade, Reaching Out promotes a code of silence to enhance your tasting experience – go for the Tea Tasting Set or The Coffee Tasting Set. They also offer meditation and crafts workshops.
131 Trần Phú, Phường Minh An, +84 235 3910 168, 8.30am-9pm Mon-Fri, 10am-8.30pm Sat & Sun, reachingoutvietnam.com
E. Japanese Covered Bridge
Hoi An’s most famous photo spot might attract the world and his wife, but it’s still worthy of a look-see. Shirk hoi polloi by getting there super early – if you’re really lucky, you’ll find an old bearded man in a traditional basket boat floating around in the canal below. Total Instagram win. Nguyễn Thị Minh Khai, Phường Minh An, open 24 hours
F. Vy’s Market Restaurant & Cooking School
A three-minute walk from the Japanese Bridge sits another highlight, this time of the culinary kind. Buzzy Vy’s Market is a contemporary collective of food stalls each specialising in a local street food. While the experience is aimed at tourists, it’s fresh, modern and the food is deliciously authentic. Ardent foodies might want to check out the cooking classes.
3 Nguyễn Hoàng, Phường Minh An, +84 235 3926 926, 8.30am-9.30pm daily
G. Old House of Tan Ky
Post lunch, dive back into the atmospheric Old Town with a visit to Tan Ky, a perfectly-preserved example of an C.18th merchant’s residence. Across the road at number 80 is former traditional pharmacy Diep Dong Nguyen House, which still features its original medicine cabinets, while Phung Hung House around the corner at 4 Nguyen Thai Hoc, is home to the eighth generation of the founding family.
101 Nguyễn Thái Học, Phường Minh An, +84 235 3861 474, 8am-5pm daily
H. Ginkgo T-Shirts
Proudly made in Vietnam, Ginkgo’s graphic, slogan, and directional t-shirts have attracted a cult following. Stock up on one of their super-soft and sustainable wares and browse the range of novel souvenirs.
59 Lê Lợi, Phường Minh An, +84 235 3910 796, 8am-10pm daily, ginkgo-vietnam.com
I. Anantara Spa
End your walk by seeking salvation within the confines of the elegant spa at river-perched Anantara Resort. Combat tired trotters and shopper’s shoulder with a pre-booked treatment that draws on local wisdom and traditional Vietnames techniques – the Vietnamese four-hand massage is a must, as is the double room with couple’s bath tub.
1 Đường Phạm Hồng Thái, Cẩm Châu, +84 235 391 4555, 7.30am-7.30pm daily, anantara.com/en/hoi-an/spa
ManulifeMOVE has no association with any of the landmarks, dining venues, galleries or retailers included within this walking guide, selected by LUXE, and disclaims any liability as to the accuracy, adequacy or reliability of any information contained herein.
Photo Credit: Nikada – iStock.com
