Discovering Hoi An by Bike: My Adventure with Julien

The sun had barely risen over Hoi An when I got on my bike, alongside my friend Julien.
We’re both 25 years old, and we wanted to explore this gem of Vietnam in a different way — no engines, no noise, just at the rhythm of our pedals.

In the golden light of morning, the town slowly came to life.
The smell of coffee drifted from old houses, street vendors arranged their fruit baskets, and everything felt calm and timeless.
It was exactly what I was looking for — a simple, authentic, human journey.

Our first stop was Hoi An’s Ancient Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The narrow cobblestone streets, lined with yellow houses and wooden shutters, seemed frozen in time.
I stopped several times to take pictures in front of the old merchant houses — Tan Ky, Phung Hung, Duc An — each telling a story between China, Japan, and Vietnam.

Julien, on the other hand, loved watching local life unfold:
a woman folding paper lanterns, an old man fixing his bicycle, children laughing in the street.
He smiled and said,

“This is the soul of Hoi An.”
And he was right.

Around noon, we headed toward Cam Thanh village, just a few kilometers away.
The road wound through lush rice fields and sparkling canals.
On bikes, we could stop whenever we wanted — to take a photo, drink fresh coconut juice, or simply breathe in the warm, fragrant air of central Vietnam.

By the river, we had lunch in a small floating restaurant, our feet almost touching the water.
Then we climbed into a traditional basket boat.
The boatman, smiling and talkative, taught us how to paddle while sharing local legends of the village.
It was simple, sincere, and deeply touching.

When evening came, we returned to the old town.
The colorful lanterns began to glow one by one, reflecting on the calm Hoai River.
I stopped, holding my bike, my eyes lost in the flickering lights.
That moment, I think, I’ll never forget.

The next day, we continued our exploration.
Cycling through the narrow streets, we reached the Japanese Covered Bridge, the city’s most iconic monument.
Under its carved wooden roof, I felt a strange harmony — as if Hoi An belonged to all times and all cultures.

A bit further, we stopped for an iced coffee in front of the famous yellow wall of Faifo Café.
Julien pulled out his phone and snapped a picture —
two friends, two bikes, a golden wall, and a pair of smiles.
A memory we’ll treasure for a long time.

As the afternoon heat softened, we ended our ride at Hoi An Roastery, a cozy café filled with travelers and cyclists.
Sitting under hanging lanterns, sipping coffee with hints of hazelnut, we talked about everything and nothing — the landscapes, the people, how time flies too fast.

💡 Why travel by bike?

Because in Hoi An, a bicycle is more than just transport.
It’s a way to move with the town’s gentle rhythm, to observe without disturbing, to savor every moment.
And for only 20,000 to 50,000 VND per day, it’s also the most eco-friendly and affordable choice.

Julien and I are convinced:

Hoi An is best discovered through the strength of your legs and the openness of your heart.

🚴‍♂️ In practice

We rented our bikes from Madame Phong, at 1 Le Loi Street — simple but sturdy models, perfect for a relaxed adventure.
Before leaving, we checked the brakes, pumped up the tires, and brought fresh water.
The rest?
Just time, curiosity, and a sense of wonder.

🌕 Conclusion

Exploring Hoi An by bike is so much more than a tourist activity.
It’s an experience that combines freedom, beauty, and serenity.
It’s like riding through a living postcard, feeling the wind in your hair, and realizing that, in the end,
traveling differently might just mean traveling better.