Hoi An captivates visitors not only with its moss-covered yellow walls and shimmering lanterns, but also with its poetic havens. If you’re looking for a cozy and authentic local retreat, choosing a homestay Hoi An is the perfect decision. Especially for those who want to stroll along the Hoai River at night or enjoy a steaming bowl of Cao Lau noodles just a few steps away, the following top homestays near Hoi An Old Town are sure to please.
How do homestays in Hoi An differ from hotels?
When searching for homestays in Hoi An, many tourists, especially those who have stayed in 3-4 star hotels, often think: “Homestays are probably just simple places to sleep, convenient to stay in.” But the reality in Hoi An is completely different. Here, homestays are not simply a cheaper option than hotels, but a way to slow down and get closer to local life.
This difference in experience has created a distinct “mindset shift”: many tourists, after trying homestays, share that staying in a homestay in Hoi An gives them a better understanding of Hoi An than staying in a hotel.
Figure 1. The interior of a homestay in Hoi An.
See more: Hoi An Hotel Compilation: Detailed Reviews by Location
In Hoi An, homestays are more than just places to sleep.
Unlike hotels, where everything is standardized and follows a set procedure, homestays in Hoi An are more personal and reflect the local way of life. You don’t walk into a large reception lobby, but rather through a small gate, a tree-lined entrance, or a quiet alleyway.
There, homestays are typically:
- A small house, renovated from a local resident’s own home.
- A courtyard with trees, sunshine, and tables and chairs for enjoying morning tea.
- A simple but warm breakfast with the host, sometimes featuring home-cooked meals rather than a mass-produced buffet.
These things may seem small, but they create a very different feeling compared to staying in a hotel.
Homestay offers the feeling of “living,” not just “staying.”
Many tourists choose the best homestays in Hoi An not because the rooms are nicer or more convenient than hotels, but because of the feeling of living in Hoi An, not just visiting Hoi An.
In the morning, you can:
- I hear the birdsong and the sound of bicycles outside the gate.
- Sitting in the yard, drinking coffee and chatting briefly with the homeowner.
- Asking about a local eatery, on a less busy street.
In the evening, you return to a quiet space, not too crowded or noisy like the big hotel areas. That feeling is very close to the real life of the people of Hoi An.
Why do many tourists say, “Staying in a homestay in Hoi An helps you understand Hoi An better”?
This statement appears frequently in reviews from international tourists, especially those who stay in Hoi An for 3-5 nights or more. The reason isn’t the facilities, but the connection.
Staying at a homestay:
- You interact directly with the locals.
- You understand the slow pace of life in Hoi An through its very ordinary daily activities.
- You are not “isolated” from the community like you would be in a closed hotel complex.
These are the things that make the homestay experience deeper, more authentic, and more emotionally resonant.
Homestays aren’t better than hotels; they’re just different experiences.
It’s important to emphasize that homestays are neither “better” nor “worse” than hotels. These two types of accommodations cater to two different kinds of travelers.
Hotels offer comfort, standard, and predictability. Homestays offer a sense of individuality, real life, and connection.
Therefore, when it comes to the best homestay in Hoi An, the “best” isn’t defined by its star rating or price, but by whether it suits the way you want to experience Hoi An.
And that’s why more and more tourists, after trying it once, choose homestays every time they return to Hoi An.
Who should really choose a homestay in Hoi An?
When it comes to homestays in Hoi An, many people unconsciously associate this option with affordability. However, if you look closely at the behavior and feedback of tourists, you will see a very clear common point: people choose homestays not because they want to save money, but because they want a different kind of experience.
Therefore, instead of categorizing by budget, a more accurate way to answer the question of who should stay in a homestay is to categorize them by travel mindset and desired experience. This is also why many travelers consider the best homestay in Hoi An not to be the cheapest, but the one that evokes the most “emotional connection.”
First-time visitors to Hoi An want to “slow down” instead of rushing through a packed schedule.
Many first-time visitors to Hoi An approach their trip differently from other tourist destinations. They don’t want a long checklist of places, nor a packed itinerary; instead, they want to slow down, observe, and feel the atmosphere.
For this group, homestays in Hoi An offer a clear advantage:
- Small, quiet space
- The pace of life is close to that of the local community.
- Avoid getting caught up in the mass tourism trend.
Instead of starting the day at a crowded buffet, they can sit in the homestay courtyard, drink coffee, watch the sunrise, and let the day slow down. This is why many people share after their trip that: “Hoi An is most beautiful when you’re not in a hurry” – and homestays help them achieve that.
The couple prefers privacy and emotional space.
Hoi An already possesses a romantic charm, but that experience is only truly complete when the accommodation offers sufficient privacy and emotional depth. This is why many couples, especially those who dislike crowded hotel spaces, choose homestays.
Homestays in Hoi An typically:
- Few rooms, not noisy.
- There’s a yard, a balcony, and a cozy corner for sitting and chatting.
- The atmosphere is friendly and not overly commercialized.
For couples, what they look for isn’t maximum convenience, but the feeling of being in a space with soul. A late evening at the homestay, sitting on the porch, chatting, listening to the insects – sometimes that’s a more memorable experience than a fancy dinner.
The small family wants a cozy, home-like feeling.
For small families (parents and 1-2 children), choosing a homestay in Hoi An often stems from a desire for a friendly and comfortable living space, rather than a standard hotel room.
Many homestays are designed to resemble residential homes:
- There is a shared room and a small kitchenette.
- An open, safe space for children.
- The host was friendly and willing to help.
The feeling of “staying with acquaintances” makes the whole family more comfortable, especially with young children. Instead of being in an unfamiliar environment, homestay provides a sense of familiarity, making the trip more relaxed and less stressful.
Figure 2. The family chose a homestay near Hoi An Old Town for convenient transportation.
International guests and long-stay visitors want to connect with the local community.
One of the groups that loves homestays in Hoi An the most are international tourists and long-stay travelers. For them, Hoi An is not just a short-term destination, but a place to live, work, and integrate for an extended period.
Homestay helps them:
- Understand how the locals live.
- Easy to chat, ask questions, and connect.
- Avoid the feeling of being “isolated” like in a large hotel.
This is also why many reviews from international guests often emphasize the human element, friendliness, and family feeling – things that homestays offer more clearly than any other type of accommodation.
Shift the focus from price to experience.
The most important point when discussing who should choose a homestay in Hoi An is the shift in mindset: from “where to stay cheaply” to “where to stay that best suits your desired Hoi An experience.”
Homestay isn’t for everyone. But if you:
- I want to live a slower life.
- Want to experience local life?
- I want a space that evokes emotion, not a purely industrial feel.
It’s quite possible that the best homestay in Hoi An for you isn’t the most beautiful one in the photos, but rather the one that makes you feel like you belong in Hoi An, even if only for a few short days.
4 most popular types of homestays in Hoi An (by lifestyle)
While hotels are categorized by star ratings and amenities, homestays in Hoi An are primarily chosen based on the lifestyle that travelers wish to experience. This is also the biggest difference between homestays and hotels: homestays don’t sell rooms, they sell the feeling of living in Hoi An.
Below are the four most popular types of homestays in Hoi An, categorized not by budget or star rating, but by how you want to experience your stay in Hoi An.
Homestay “in the heart of the old town” – living amidst the rhythm of heritage.
This type of homestay is often sought after by first-time travelers who want to stay close to the center. Homestays in the heart of Hoi An are usually located in small alleys, old houses, or long-established residential areas, near the Hoai River and pedestrian streets.
The typical layout of this type of homestay is:
- Small, cozy
- Fewer rooms, fewer people
- Bearing the distinctive architectural style of Hoi An.
You don’t need to go far to experience the old town. Just open your door and you’ll see lanterns, hear footsteps on the cobblestone streets, and feel the characteristic slow pace of life.
Homestays near Hoi An Old Town are suitable for:
- First-time visitors
- People who enjoy walking and taking photos.
- People want to “live in the old town,” not just visit.
The only drawback is that the spaces are often small and not very quiet in the evenings. But for many, that’s exactly the “Hoi An atmosphere” they’re looking for.
So, when you choose to stay in a homestay near Hoi An Old Town, restaurant near Hoi An Old Town which option offers both convenient walking distance and a truly exceptional dining experience?
One suggestion worth including in your schedule is Chau Kitchen & Bar– Chau is an Asian-European fusion restaurant located right on Tran Phu street, just a few steps from the homestays in the Old Quarter. Situated in a house over 100 years old, Chau preserves the spirit of Hoi An architecture with yellow walls, antique wood, lanterns, and warm lighting, creating a feeling that is both ancient and sophisticated. The highlight of the restaurant is Iron Beefsteak Hoi An – the signature dish premium beef cooked directly on a sizzling cast-iron griddle, still appealingly tender, juicy, and flavorful when served. Besides steak, the diverse menu skillfully combines Asian and European cuisine, from pasta and seafood to salads and modernized Hoi An specialties, catering to a wide range of tastes. The spacious and flexible setting accommodates solo diners, couples, families, and groups, with seating areas offering street views so you can enjoy delicious food while watching the rhythm of the old town. With its central location, heritage ambiance, and meticulously crafted fusion cuisine, Chau Kitchen & Bar is the ideal stop to complete your “living in the old town” experience.
- Address: 141 Tran Phu, Minh An Ward, Hoi An Ancient Town
- Phone: 0903529377
- Opening hours: 08:30 – 22:30
- Website: https://chaukitchenandbar.vn/en/homepage/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Chaukitchenhoian
- You can book a table directly through the website: Reservation
- Rating on Google Map: 4.8/5.0
- TripAdvisor Rating: 4.8/5.0
Figure 3. Tourists choosing to dine at the best restaurant in Hoi An – Chau Kitchen and Bar.
Homestay with garden and countryside: living amidst nature.
Completely different from the old town, garden-style homestays in the countryside offer a very different Hoi An: greener, more spacious, and more authentically lifelike.
This type of homestay in Hoi An is usually located in areas like Cam Chau, Cam Thanh, or on the outskirts of the village, with:
- Garden, trellis, small yard
- Shared kitchen or private kitchen
- Open, airy space
In the morning, you can hear the roosters crowing and the sound of bicycles going to the market. In the afternoon, you can smell the rice fields, the earth, and feel the cool breeze rustling through the trees. This is an experience that hotels can almost never provide.
This type of homestay truly embodies the spirit of “homestay”:
- Live like a local.
- Slow pace of life
- Not overly commercialized by tourism.
For those who want to understand Hoi An from the inside out, this is often the best homestay in Hoi An in terms of experience, even though it’s not located in the center.
Homestay near the beach – experience life like a local in An Bang and Cua Dai.
Homestays near the beach are an increasingly popular choice, especially with international travelers and digital nomads. These homestays are often located near An Bang or Cua Dai, away from the hustle and bustle of the city center.
The characteristics of this type of homestay are:
- Sea air, cool breeze
- Slow pace of life, less crowded.
- Long-term community
You can:
- Morning walk to the beach
- Work lunch, read a book.
- Watching the sunset in the afternoon, having dinner Hoi An seafood
For those staying in Hoi An for an extended period, this is often considered the best homestay in Hoi An in terms of lifestyle, although it’s not suitable for short 1-2 night trips.
In Hoi An, homestays aren’t created to compete on which is more beautiful or more convenient, but rather to cater to different lifestyles within the same destination. Some people want to stay in the heart of the old town, waking up each morning to lanterns and the rhythm of heritage. Others choose the countryside, riverside, or near the sea to find peace, nature, and the feeling of “staying” longer.
Therefore, there isn’t one “best” standard for homestays in Hoi An that suits everyone. The most important thing isn’t the star rating or the advertised images, but whether the homestay fits your lifestyle, length of stay, and desired mood.
When you choose the right “unique type,” a homestay is not just a place to sleep, but becomes a part of your travel memories – a place where you truly feel like you’re living in Hoi An, not just passing through.
Riverside homestay – slow pace of life and sunshine.
You don’t need to be in the old town or near the beach; riverside homestays offer a unique option for travelers who love tranquility.
Riverside homestays are typically located along the Hoai River, Thu Bon River, or their smaller tributaries, and are characterized by:
- River view, plenty of light.
- A quiet space
- Few customers pass by.
Mornings here are usually beautiful: the sun shines on the water, boats drift slowly, and the air is cool. Evenings are quiet, making it easy to fall asleep, perfect for those who need real rest.
This type of homestay in Hoi An is suitable for:
- Remote workers
- Guests stay for 3–5 nights.
- People who don’t need to be in the city center but need peace and quiet.
In return, you’ll need to travel further if you want to get into the old town. But for many, this trade-off is well worth it.
Figure 4. A riverside homestay in Hoi An.
Is staying in a homestay near the Old Town in Hoi An really necessary?
When looking for homestays in Hoi An, many tourists – especially first-time visitors – often wonder:
“Is it really necessary to stay in a homestay near the Old Town?”
This is a very real concern, and it’s also why many people choose the wrong accommodation. In Hoi An, proximity to or distance from the old town doesn’t always equate to convenience or inconvenience. It all depends on the length of your stay, how you get around, and what you expect from your trip.
When is the best time to stay in a homestay in Hoi An near the Old Town?
In some cases, living near the old town is highly recommended and even a smart choice.
When you go to Hoi An for a short stay (1-2 nights)
With a short itinerary, time is of the essence. Staying in a homestay near the Old Town helps you:
- No travel time required.
- You can go back for a break in the middle of the day.
- It’s easy to stroll through the old town in the evening and then return to your room anytime.
In this case, a homestay in Hoi An near the old town helps you make the most of every hour in Hoi An, especially if it’s your first time visiting.
When you don’t rent a car or don’t want to be dependent on transportation.
If you don’t have a motorbike, don’t want to call taxis multiple times, or are traveling with elderly people, staying near the Old Quarter will be much more convenient. All the main activities – sightseeing, eating, strolling – are within walking distance.
For this group of travelers, choosing a homestay near the Old Town is not only convenient but also makes the trip easier and less costly.
When is it NOT necessary to be near the Old Town?
Conversely, many tourists don’t necessarily need to stay in a homestay near the old town – but often don’t realize this before booking.
When you stay in Hoi An for more than 3 nights
For longer stays, being too close to the old town can sometimes be a disadvantage:
- Constantly crowded
- Little personal space
- It’s easy to feel “tourist overload.”
In this case, choosing a homestay on the outskirts of the old town, in the countryside, by the river, or near the sea helps you balance the experience:
Enjoy sightseeing during the day and relax peacefully in the evening.
When you prioritize quiet and the feeling of “staying put”
If you are coming to Hoi An to:
- Rest
- Writing, working remotely
- Live slowly, observe local life.
Therefore, staying in a homestay right next to the Old Quarter is not the ideal choice. Homestays located a little further from the center usually have:
- The space is more open.
- Low noise
- Slower pace of life
And this is what allows you to experience Hoi An more deeply, instead of just “seeing” Hoi An.
The issue isn’t about “near or far,” but about “right or wrong.”
The most important thing when choosing a homestay in Hoi An is not to stay as close to the old town as possible, but to answer the following questions correctly:
- How long will I be staying?
- How do I get around?
- Do I want a lively or a quiet Hoi An?
Once you answer these questions, you’ll know for yourself whether a homestay in Hoi An near the old town is truly necessary for you.
The Old Quarter is a hub of experiences, but not the center of every trip. For short stays, staying near the Old Quarter is ideal. However, for longer stays seeking tranquility and a more immersive experience, choosing a homestay a little further from the center is a smarter decision.
Understanding this will help you avoid many unnecessary regrets and enjoy Hoi An at the pace you desire.
An experience unique to homestays in Hoi An (something hotels can’t offer).
While hotels offer comfort, standard amenities, and predictable comfort, homestays in Hoi An offer a completely different experience – things not found in brochures or room descriptions, but which many visitors remember Hoi An long after they leave.
This is also why more and more people are choosing the best homestay in Hoi An not based on its most beautiful photos, but on the place that makes them feel like they are actually living in Hoi An, rather than just visiting Hoi An to check in.
The host recommended a local eatery – where the real people of Hoi An eat.
One of the most valuable experiences when staying in a homestay in Hoi An is being recommended local restaurants by the host.
It’s not a famous restaurant on Google Maps, nor a place crowded with tourists, but rather:
- Cao Lau restaurant in a small alley.
- This Quang-style noodle shop caters to locals in the mornings.
- The family-run restaurant is only open for a few hours each day.
These suggestions don’t usually appear on popular travel blogs, but they offer a truly authentic culinary experience. You’ll not only enjoy delicious food, but also gain a deeper understanding of the habits, tastes, and lifestyle of the people of Hoi An.
Hotels rarely do this because they can only suggest popular, safe, and “tourist-standard” destinations.
Borrowing a bicycle to go to the market – it feels like living like a local.
Many homestays in Hoi An offer bicycles for guests to borrow, and this is not just an optional amenity. Cycling to the market, through the villages, observing the locals buying and selling, and their morning activities provides a very different feeling compared to taking a taxi or motorbike.
You will:
- Go slower
- Observe more
- Experience the atmosphere of everyday life.
These moments aren’t “beautiful” in the typical social media check-in style, but they are very real and deeply meaningful – something that hotel guests often struggle to experience.
Figure 5. Tourists experience cycling to the market and cooking like locals.
Having breakfast with family, not a buffet, but full of emotion.
Breakfast at homestays is rarely extravagant. But it’s precisely that simplicity that makes all the difference.
A typical breakfast at a homestay in Hoi An might include:
- Hot bread, fried eggs, fruit
- Cao Lau or Quang noodles are prepared by the host.
- A pot of tea, a few stories.
You eat in the yard, in the kitchen, or on the patio, sometimes with the host. This setting makes breakfast more than just “eating to satisfy hunger,” but a part of family life.
This is an experience that hotels – whether 4 or 5-star – can almost never replicate.
Knowing Hoi An beyond just “check-in” spots and destination lists
If you stay in a homestay a little longer, you’ll start to realize:
- Which road is beautiful in the early morning?
- What time of day is the Old Quarter least crowded?
- Which corner is best for sitting alone and drinking coffee?
- Which villages around Hoi An still retain their old way of life?
These things aren’t on the typical tourist itinerary, but they are what real Hoi An is – the Hoi An of everyday life, not the Hoi An of the stage.
This is also why many tourists, after staying in homestays, often say: “I didn’t just visit Hoi An, I lived in Hoi An.”
Best homestay recommendations in Hoi An for different types of travelers.
Instead of choosing homestays based on price or beautiful photos, a more sustainable approach is to choose based on the traveler’s style and lifestyle. Below are some of the best homestay suggestions in Hoi An based on real-life experiences and consistent positive reviews from Booking, Traveloka, and Agoda. Each group is selected according to the purpose of the stay, not following fleeting trends.
Homestay for couples – quiet, private, with a distinct Hoi An feel.
These homestays are typically small in size, have a cozy atmosphere, sophisticated decor, and are perfect for couples who want to enjoy a slow-paced, emotionally fulfilling lifestyle.
1. An Bang Garden Homestay
With its green, tranquil surroundings, abundant trees, and gardens, this homestay is very popular with foreign couples due to its sense of privacy and closeness to nature, making it more suitable for relaxation and a relaxing stay rather than a fast-paced itinerary.
2. Tau House Hoi An
This charming little homestay is located in the Old Quarter, with exquisite decor and beautiful lighting. It’s perfect for couples looking for a relaxing 1-2 night experience in the Old Quarter, away from the overly touristy atmosphere.
3. Green Grass Homestay Hoi An
The spacious garden and very “local” atmosphere, especially in the evenings, make it a great choice for couples who want to experience living like a local, away from the crowds.
4. Under The Coconut Tree Homestay
Private, surrounded by greenery, and with a slow pace of life. Perfect for couples who appreciate a tranquil atmosphere, open spaces, and a sense of seclusion amidst Hoi An.
Homestay for small families – spacious, friendly, and comfortable rooms.
The homestays listed below typically feature family rooms, shared living spaces, and very supportive hosts, making them suitable for families with young children or elderly members.
1. Villa Soleil Hoi An
The rooms are spacious, there’s a small swimming pool, and the space is airy. This homestay is suitable for families who need comfort and safety for their children during their stay.
2. B’Lan Homestay
Long-standing homestay with friendly hosts and a convenient location near the Old Quarter. Suitable for families who want easy access to transportation while still maintaining a warm, home-like atmosphere.
3. An Hoi Homestay
The place is quiet, the rooms are clean, and it’s easy to live in. Families staying for 2-3 nights usually appreciate the stability and comfort here.
4. The An Central Boutique Villa
This is a small, fully equipped villa with easy access. It’s suitable for families who need privacy but are still close to the city center.
Homestay for long-stay/digital nomads – stay for an extended period, feel as comfortable as at home.
This group is highly rated for its spacious, quiet environment, making it suitable for working and living for extended periods. Many international guests return multiple times.
1. Heritage Homestay Hoi An
With a large number of international long-stay guests, the space is spacious and stable. It’s suitable for remote workers who need a quiet environment where they can concentrate easily.
2. The Present Homestay
A minimalist, tranquil style, perfect for digital nomads. A tidy space with good lighting and a relaxed pace of life.
3. An Bang Beach Dolphin Homestay
Located near the sea, with a relaxed pace of life, it’s highly rated by long-stay guests. Suitable for those who want to combine work and relaxation.
Homestay for photography enthusiasts – beautiful decor, good lighting.
These homestays have the advantage of space, light, and style, making them ideal for those who enjoy photography and content creation.
1. Villa Orchid Garden Riverside
The river view, green gardens, and natural light are beautiful. It’s easy to take photos in the early morning and late afternoon.
2. Le Bleu Homestay Hoi An
Vintage-boho style, with tasteful decor, is very popular with young people and international visitors.
3. Riverside Pottery Village Homestay
The village-style setting is very different from homestays in the city center. It’s suitable for those who like unique concepts and experiential photography.
4. Yellow House Riverside Homestay
Hoi An’s colors, river view, photogenic spots, and many beautiful lighting angles throughout the day make it a great place to take pictures.
Homestay for international guests – good communication, reliable service.
The homestays listed below have a large number of international guests and are highly rated for their friendliness, good English communication skills, and professional operation.
1. An Bang Memory Bungalow
The hosts are friendly, speak good English, and are close to the beach. They are very popular with European and Australian guests.
2. Tribee Bana Heritage Inn
Many international guests choose this option because of its convenient location and friendly atmosphere.
3. Calm House Boutique Hotel Hoi An
Despite its name, it operates on a homestay model. The service is consistent and highly rated by international guests.
4. Goda Boutique Villa
Boutique style, professional service, good reviews on Agoda, suitable for travelers seeking stability and comfort.
The list above isn’t intended to claim the “number one” spot, but rather to help you choose the best homestay in Hoi An that suits your travel style. When you choose the right group, the homestay experience will be more than just accommodation; it will become a very real part of your memories of Hoi An.
Homestay prices in Hoi An: Don’t just look at the “cheap” ones.
When searching for homestays in Hoi An, many tourists tend to filter prices from lowest to highest, thinking, “For a homestay, the cheapest option is fine.”
This approach sounds reasonable, but in reality, it’s a leading cause of disappointing experiences.
In Hoi An, homestay prices clearly reflect location, living space, and quality of experience. An unusually cheap homestay is rarely a bargain, and usually comes with trade-offs that you only realize after checking in.
Why are homestays that are too cheap often unsuitable?
1. Often located far from the city center or the area you want to experience.
Homestays with very low prices usually:
- Located far from the old town and the beach.
- In a residential area with few amenities.
- It’s inconvenient if you don’t have a motorbike or taxi.
On a map, the distance might only be a few kilometers, but for Hoi An, that means:
- It takes extra travel time each day.
- It’s expensive to call a taxi at night.
- Reduce flexibility in scheduling.
If you’re only going for a short trip, staying far from the city center just for the “cheapest” price is often not worth it.
2. Lack of basic amenities for a truly comfortable “living” experience.
Prices that are too low often come with:
- Small room, poor soundproofing.
- Lack of common space
- Amenities are minimal.
There’s nothing wrong with this if you just need a place to sleep overnight. But if you choose a homestay in Hoi An expecting a slow-paced experience, relaxation, or a few days’ stay, the lack of amenities will quickly become a major drawback.
3. Did not meet expectations regarding the “homestay experience”.
Many people choose homestays because they want to:
- Cozy atmosphere
- Connection with the homeowner
- It feels like living like a local.
However, a homestay that’s too cheap sometimes just means:
- Simple renovated rental room
- Little interaction with the landlord.
- It doesn’t offer a true “homestay” experience.
As a result, you don’t get a different experience compared to a hotel, while having to accept more inconveniences.
Homestay prices in Hoi An are reasonable, depending on the type of experience.
Instead of asking “What’s a cheap homestay price?”, a more appropriate question would be: “What’s a reasonable price for the type of homestay I want?”
1. Homestay near the Old Quarter/City Center
- Reasonable price range: from 700,000 – 1,200,000 VND/night
- You get: a convenient walking location, a small space but with a distinct Hoi An feel.
- Suitable for: short trips, couples, first-time travelers
Lower prices often mean very small rooms or rooms located too deep in alleys, so consider this carefully.
2. Homestay with garden – countryside/riverside
- Reasonable price range: from 600,000 – 1,000,000 VND/night
- You get: green space, tranquility, and an authentic local experience.
- Suitable for: stays of 2–4 nights, those who enjoy a slower pace of life.
Lower prices might be acceptable if you’re not a big priority on amenities, but you should carefully check the pictures and reviews.
3. Homestays near the beach (An Bang – Cua Dai)
- Reasonable price range: from 800,000 – 1,500,000 VND/night
- You get: sea air, slow pace of life, suitable for extended stays.
- Suitable for: digital nomads, long-stay
Very cheap homestays near the beach are often far from the swimming area or lack basic amenities.
4. Homestay for long-stay (over 5 nights)
- Reasonable price range: 500,000 – 900,000 VND/night (weekly/monthly discounts available)
- You get: stable living space, easy access to amenities, and reasonable costs.
- Suitable for: remote work, long-term stays
For long-stays, affordability only truly matters when it comes with comfort and stability.
Cheap prices aren’t wrong; the mistake is choosing a cheap price with high expectations.
When choosing a homestay in Hoi An, don’t just ask “is it cheap or not?”, but ask:
- How long will I be staying?
- What kind of experience would I like?
- What am I willing to sacrifice to get that price?
A reasonably priced homestay that perfectly matches the type of experience you’re looking for will offer far greater value than the “cheapest” option that leaves your trip inconvenient and disappointing.
With homestays, value for money is always more important than cheap, especially in Hoi An, where the experience is what you take home after your trip.
Common mistakes to avoid when booking homestays in Hoi An.
Homestays offer unique experiences, but because they aren’t standardized like hotels, booking a homestay in Hoi An without sufficient knowledge can easily lead to disappointment. Many tourists leave Hoi An feeling that “the homestay wasn’t what I expected”—while the problem isn’t with the homestay itself, but with how they chose it.
Below are the most common mistakes to avoid when booking a homestay in Hoi An, especially for first-time visitors or those only used to staying in hotels.
They only look at the pretty pictures, without reading the actual reviews.
This is the most common mistake – and also the most costly one.
Homestays in Hoi An are often beautifully decorated: lush gardens, bright rooms, and great photo opportunities. But beautiful photos can’t capture the whole experience.
If you only look at pictures without reading reviews, you’re very likely to encounter problems such as:
- The room is nice but the soundproofing is poor.
- Green space, but lots of mosquitoes.
- The host was uncommunicative and did not meet expectations for the homestay.
Reviews from previous guests – especially long, detailed reviews – are what truly reflect the experience. This is where homestays differ completely from hotels: each has its own lifestyle, and you can’t tell just by looking at pictures.
I thought all homestays meant “staying with the host family.”
Many tourists choose homestays with the thought that they will:
- Having breakfast with family
- Chat with the landlord every day.
- It feels like “being with the locals.”
But in reality, not all homestays in Hoi An are family-run. Many homestays:
- The landlord does not live on-site.
- It operates much like a small hotel.
- Little interaction with customers.
This isn’t wrong, but it’s wrong to have unrealistic expectations. If you want to experience “living with a host family,” carefully read reviews to see if previous guests have mentioned this.
It’s too far from the city center, but I didn’t rent a car.
A very common mistake is choosing a cheap homestay with beautiful surroundings, but located quite far from the old town or the beach, while:
- Do not rent motorbikes.
- Not used to calling a taxi.
- I want to walk a lot.
The result is:
- Inconvenient transportation
- It incurs extra costs for calling a taxi each day.
- Feeling tired, not in the spirit of “slow living”.
In Hoi An, homestays far from the center aren’t bad, but they’re only suitable if you:
- Rent a car
- Stay for an extended period
- Accept the move.
Otherwise, this would be a choice that would make the trip consume more energy than necessary.
Choosing the wrong type of homestay for the purpose of your trip.
This is the most fundamental mistake.
Many people choose homestays based on intuition, without asking themselves:
- How long will I be gone?
- Who am I going with?
- Do I want peace and quiet or convenience?
For example:
- Stay for 1-2 nights but choose a homestay far from the city center.
- Going on vacation but choosing a homestay right next to the bustling Old Town.
- Working remotely but choosing a small homestay with limited space.
Homestays in Hoi An come in many styles: in the old town, in the countryside, by the river, or near the beach. Each style suits a different type of trip. Choosing the wrong style will completely ruin your experience.
Why are these mistakes so easy to make?
The reason is because of homestays:
- There is no standard for stars.
- There are no fixed evaluation criteria.
- The experience depends heavily on people and space.
Meanwhile, much of the article content Hoi An travel guide simply listing homestays doesn’t help readers understand which type suits them best.
Homestays in Hoi An can offer a very special experience, but only if you choose the right one. Something that looks good in photos isn’t necessarily suitable for staying in, a cheap price doesn’t guarantee a comfortable stay, and not every homestay lives up to the expectation of “staying with locals.”
To avoid common mistakes, the most important thing is to clearly understand how you want to live in Hoi An: close to the old town or quieter, short or long stay, convenience or emotional connection. When you choose the right type of homestay for your trip, it will not just be a place to sleep, but become a very real part of your Hoi An experience.
Homestays in Hoi An aren’t for everyone, but they’re definitely worth a try if you want a different experience. If you prioritize amenities, standardized services, and absolute convenience, a hotel would be a better choice. Conversely, if you want to experience Hoi An at a slower pace, more intimately and authentically, a homestay offers values that hotels can hardly replace. The important thing isn’t whether a homestay is cheap or expensive, but choosing the right type of homestay that suits your desired Hoi An experience. When you choose correctly, a homestay is not just a place to stay, but also becomes a memorable part of your trip.
Post on: 30/12/2025 03:25
