Hoi An ranked among top 25 World’s Best Cities of 2025
This charming city, with its picturesque landscapes, friendly people, and rich history, has once again won the hearts of readers of Travel + Leisure magazine.
THE HANOI TIMES — In Travel + Leisure's just-announced World's Best Awards 2025, the UNESCO-recognized ancient and charming town on Vietnam's central coast has once again captured the hearts of global travelers, proudly securing 6th place among the world's top 25 cities and 5th in Asia.
A peaceful morning in Hoi An Ancient Town. Photo: Nguoi Hoi An
Hoi An's remarkable score of 91.00 earned it a place in the Travel + Leisure Hall of Fame, which is reserved for destinations that consistently capture the hearts of travelers year after year.
Every year, millions of passionate travelers vote for their favorite destinations based on their experiences with attractions, hotels, cuisine, heritage, urban atmosphere, hospitality, and the overall quality of travel. This year's rankings reaffirm Hoi An's enduring appeal as it continues to enchant visitors with its timeless beauty and cultural richness.
Travel + Leisure describes Hoi An as a captivating riverside town, renowned for its meandering canals and distinctive architecture shaped by a harmonious blend of local and international influences.
The publication notes that wandering through and photographing Hoi An’s postcard-perfect streets is one of the town's greatest pleasures. Beyond its visual charm, visitors are drawn to Hoi An’s cozy cafés, vibrant nightlife, and eclectic boutiques, which add modern allure to this historic gem.
An old house in Hoi An Ancient Town from a bird's-eye view. Photo: Nguoi Hoi An
Hoi An Ancient Town, nestled along Vietnam’s central coast, is a living museum of history and harmony. This old trading port boasts a unique blend of Vietnamese, Chinese, Japanese, and European influences. Its well-preserved architecture, including ochre-colored shophouses, moss-covered tile roofs, ancient temples, and wooden bridges, offers a journey back in time.
During the day, visitors can stroll through quaint, lantern-lined alleyways, visit bustling markets, and enjoy moments of serenity along the Thu Bon River. By night, Hoi An transforms into a magical wonderland of lanterns and lights with floating candle rituals and lively cultural performances during its famous full moon festivals.
Hoi An's deep cultural soul, as well as its picturesque setting, set it apart. Visitors find themselves immersed in authentic and unforgettable experiences, from hands-on craft workshops and traditional music to world-renowned street food.
In 1999, the ancient town of Hoi An was declared a World Cultural Heritage Site by UNESCO.
