HỘI AN — The ancient town of Hội An has been named the most beautiful historic centre in Asia by French online travel platform Tourlane, placing it alongside globally acclaimed destinations such as Krakow in Poland, Avignon in France and Cartagena in Colombia.

In its early September announcement, Tourlane evaluated old quarters across four criteria of pedestrian space, age, entrance fees and popularity on Instagram. Hội An tops the list for Asia due to its well-preserved 16th-century architecture, affordable entrance fees of 2 euros (US$2.36), and a pedestrian-friendly layout.

Tourlane described Hội An as one of the best-preserved ancient towns in Southeast Asia, distinguished by its vibrant streets illuminated by thousands of colourful lanterns.

Rounding out the top five are Bhaktapur (Nepal), Kyoto (Japan), Luang Prabang (Laos) and Galle (Sri Lanka).

In Europe, Krakow leads the rankings with its UNESCO-listed historic centre dating back to the seventh century, followed by Naples (Italy), Regensburg (Germany), Riga (Latvia), and San Marino.

France’s Avignon, known as the city of the Popes, ranks sixth thanks to its Gothic architecture from the 14th to 16th centuries and tranquil sites such as the Urbain V gardens and the Carmelite Monastery.

The North Africa and Middle East region showcases Tunisia's Sousse at the forefront, praised for its pristine white Medina stretching toward the Mediterranean Sea. Morocco's imperial cities of Fes and Marrakech followed, alongside Qatar's modern capital Doha and Egypt's historic Cairo. This region notably boasts the world’s most ancient historic centres.

In the Americas, Saint Augustine in the US’ Florida state earns the recognition as the standout ancient quarter, bearing Spanish colonial influences dating back to 1565. Meanwhile, in Latin America, Cartagena of Colombia claims the top spot with its 16th-century fortifications and colourful old quarter, followed by Oaxaca (Mexico), Salvador de Bahia (Brazil) and Panama and Buenos Aires (Argentina).

Ealier this year, in celebration of World Bicycle Day, the digital travel platform Agoda named Hội An one of the top five cycling destinations in Asia.

The other ideal cycling locations are Hokkaido (Japan), Luang Prabang (Laos), Sun Moon Lake (Taiwan, China) and Sukhothai (Thailand).

Agoda highlights that cyclists can explore both the ancient city and its picturesque countryside, enjoying beautiful routes through rice fields, coastal roads and vibrant local villages. Accommodation options range from hotels to luxury resorts, catering to various preferences.

Nestled along the banks of the poetic Hoài River, 30km from Đà Nẵng, Hội An has long been a favoured destination for both domestic and international tourists. Over the years, the town has weathered many historical changes, emerging with a tranquil and timeless beauty that contrasts sharply with modern urban life.

Visitors are captivated by Hội An's moss-roofed houses, ancient yellow-painted walls and iconic lanterns, all integral to its unique charm. Since its development in the 16th century, Hội An was once one of the busiest international trading ports in the region, attracting merchants from China, Japan, the Netherlands, India, Spain and beyond. VNS