Hoi An is considered by many to be the cultural capital of Vietnam. Home to stunning pre and post colonial architecture, skilled local artisans, and some of the best food in the country, there is plenty to discover in the charming alleys and neighborhoods of Hoi An. Take a stroll through the UNESCO-listed Ancient Town straddling the slow-flowing Thu Bon River and it is easy to imagine a time when sea trade bought merchants from across the world to this once bustling port. While the sea routes no longer exist, the artisans of Hoi An still make a roaring trade on their ceramics, silkwares, and artwork. If there is anywhere to shop in Vietnam, Hoi An is surely it. Wander in and out of intricately decorated temples, beautifully restored ancestral homes, and shops overflowing with handcrafted souvenirs. Dine on central region specialties in charming riverside restaurants.