Rainy Day Adventures in Hoi An: The Best Things to Do When It’s Raining
It sure looks like this December is shaping up to be a wet one, with rain predicted almost every day! But don’t let the weather keep you from exploring one of the most beautiful and unique destinations in Vietnam. Whether it’s a light drizzle or a heavy downpour, we’ve put together the best tips and recommendations to make sure your rainy day in Hoi An is filled with unforgettable experiences.
We won’t let the rain stop your fun! Grab your umbrella (or poncho) and let’s dive into some rainy day adventures that are perfect for small groups, families and solo travelers. Here are our top tips for making the most of your time in Hoi An, no matter the weather.
Things to Do in the Rain in Hoi An
Join a Morning Cooking Class and Enjoy a Delicious Lunch
Rainy mornings are the perfect time to immerse yourself in Hoi An’s culinary culture. Why not join a cooking class and learn how to prepare local dishes like Cao Lầu or White Rose Dumplings? Afterward, enjoy a tasty lunch that you’ve crafted with your own hands—it’s the ultimate way to spend a rainy day!
Explore Cafés in Ancient Houses and Secret Spaces
The Old Town of Hoi An is full of charming cafés nestled inside centuries-old houses, where you can sip a warm cup of coffee or tea while watching the rain fall outside. The scent of aged wood and the cozy atmosphere will transport you to another time. These hidden gems are perfect for slowing down and soaking in the unique vibes of this UNESCO World Heritage site.
If the rain isn’t too heavy, be sure to check out these top historical spots in Ancient Town.
Join an Art Workshop with Local Artisans
If you’re looking for a hands-on experience, join an art workshop with local artisans. Learn the ancient tradition of woodworking with skilled craftsmen at Lang Cui Lu — Driftwood Village. A meaningful and exciting activity for families or groups of friends, allowing you to tap into your creative side while learning something new.
Discover the Magic of Christmas with a Gingerbread House Workshop
Get Crafty at a Local Workshop
Hoi An is known for its rich craft heritage, and rainy days are a great time to dive into it. Join a wood carving and painting workshop, a ceramics or pottery-making workshop, try your hand at lantern making, or discover the art of lacquerware. If you’re visiting in December, don’t miss the special Gingerbread House workshop at Em Bakery, perfect for families looking to create sweet memories together.
Indulge in a Gourmet Secret Dinner with a Top Chef
For those rainy evenings, treat yourself to a gourmet experience like no other. SecretEATS offers exclusive private dinners hosted by top chefs in unique, intimate locations. These secret dinner experiences are a wonderful way to savor incredible food while escaping the rain outside.
Discover Hoi An’s Art Galleries
Hoi An’s art scene is thriving, and a rainy day is the perfect time to explore some of the local, vibrant galleries. We recommend stopping by places like Cui Lu Art Space, Precious Heritage and Hart Hoi An. Along with a few other hidden gems, these are three of our favorite spots in Hoi An for local art. It’s an inspiring way to spend the day while staying dry, and you’ll be able to take home a piece of Hoi An’s artistic soul.
Plan to stroll the streets and discover some art? If you feel like some company, pop us a message and we’ll give you a few more recommendations or even try to join you for an art walk in the Old Town.
Stroll Through the Rain-Soaked Streets of the Old Town
If the rain isn’t too heavy, why not grab your umbrella and take a walk through the rain-soaked streets of Hoi An’s Old Town? The charming lanterns glistening in the wet weather and the peaceful atmosphere make it an unforgettable experience. This guide to the top ten historical sites will give you some background on the not-to-miss landmarks in Old Town.
Feeling thirsty? Join SecretEATS for a cocktail experience and enjoy a delicious drink while discovering the city’s cocktail culture.
Take a Traditional Vietnamese Tea Tasting
Find a cozy tea house and enjoy a traditional Vietnamese tea-tasting experience. Many of Hoi An’s cafés offer a selection of teas from different regions of Vietnam. This is a relaxing and educational way to spend a rainy afternoon while discovering the rich history of Vietnamese tea culture.
Insider Tip: Reaching Out Teahouse is known for its serene atmosphere and dedication to preserving traditional Vietnamese tea culture. Nestled in Hoi An's Old Town, it offers a peaceful escape with expertly crafted teas, served with warmth and grace by staff members with hearing impairments, making it a truly unique and heartwarming experience.
Watch a Traditional Vietnamese Puppet Show
Head to the Hoi An Lune Center or another local theater where you can watch a water puppet show. These performances feature intricate puppetry on water and tell stories from Vietnamese folklore. It’s an entertaining and unique experience that’s perfect for a rainy evening.
Book a Spa Retreat in Hoi An’s Countryside
For the ultimate rainy day relaxation, treat yourself to an idyllic spa retreat in the Hoi An countryside. Book a couples massage, enjoy a tour of an organic garden, or indulge in a delicious bite to eat—all while soaking in the serene views of rivers, rice fields, lotus ponds, and herbal gardens. It’s a peaceful, rejuvenating experience that will leave you feeling refreshed and ready to take on the rest of your trip.
Guests enjoy a private cocktail tasting at our secret venue in Da Nang, Vietnam
Uncover the Hidden Gems of Da Nang’s Nightlife
When the rain starts to fall, don’t let it dampen your plans—step into Da Nang’s vibrant nightlife scene with our Secret Cocktail Experience. As the city sparkles under the rain, our SecretEATS driver will whisk you away from your accommodation to our exclusive, hidden spots.
Sip on four sensational cocktails, each expertly crafted and paired with captivating stories that transport you deeper into the heart of Vietnam’s spirit. Why let the weather hold you back when you can embrace the city's secret side, all while staying comfortably dry?
Insider Tip: Not afraid of a little wet weather? Our Hoi An Secret Cocktail Experience takes you on a walking journey through the ancient streets of Hoi An as we eat, drink and enjoy together.
A Few Practical Tips for a Rainy Day in Hoi An
Bring an Umbrella or Poncho: Stay dry like the locals with a raincoat, poncho, or compact umbrella.
Use Private Drivers or Grab Taxis: Skip the puddles and stay dry with a private ride or Grab taxi around the city.
Wear Comfortable Footwear: Expect wet streets—pack extra socks or shoes if you're planning to explore.
Warm Up with Local Drinks: Cozy up in a café with a hot Vietnamese coffee or pho to keep the chill at bay.
Embrace the Rain: Fewer crowds mean it's the perfect time to explore Hoi An’s hidden gems in the rain.
Protect Your Valuables: Keep your electronics and wallet safe in waterproof bags.
No matter the weather, there’s always something exciting to do in Hoi An. Embrace the rain, and you’ll find that the city has so much to offer—even when the skies are grey!
If you need a hand in planning your visit or more information on any of our rainy day suggestions, get in touch! We’d love to hear from you.