Housed since 1991 in what used to be government offices, the Hoi An Historic Hotel can’t seem to shake off its slight corporate feel. It shares the complex with the Hoi An Tourist Center, and the entrance -- with a long lotus pond running down the middle of the big driveway -- is usually busy with locals and visitors alike. The hotel is made up of three low, long buildings set around spacious, nicely landscaped gardens complete with a big pool and stone paths leading from one end of the property to the other. The grounds are sprawling, with the two main restaurants all the way by the street, and most rooms, the spa, and the gym in the far back of the property, are adjacent to the outdoor pool. 

The hotel draws a mixed crowd that varies with the season, and the atmosphere of the hotel changes radically from one month to the next. Families visit mostly during the summer, and the pool area can feel overrun with children. The rest of the year, though, and especially outside of school vacation periods, the property is quiet. We visited in the spring, which is the most popular season with tour groups, and although the breakfast area was jam-packed with guests, the hotel suddenly emptied out when the tour buses left, and just a few couples remained around the pool.

The hotel’s location right on the edge of the Ancient Town makes it a convenient pick for those looking to explore the historic sights on foot. However, rates are high (by Vietnamese standards) for a three-and-a-half pearl hotel. Travelers wanting to stay in a resort-style hotel within walking distance of the city center may want to consider the Vinh Hung Emerald Resort, which is a little cheaper and has a peaceful setting by the river. Rates at Lantana Boutique Hotel Hoi An are also generally lower, and rooms are more charming and stylish. Those seeking a more upscale stay may want to compare rates at the Essence Hoi An Hotel & Spa or the Almanity Hoi An, both of which are just a little bit farther away from the city center. 

Hoi An Historic Hotel is located on a busy street just two blocks from the pedestrian area in the Ancient Town. There are tons of restaurants, small cafes, cute shops, and tailors within a five-minute walk of the hotel, and many more options can be found just a little farther away. The hotel has free shuttle service to sister property Hoi An Beach Resort, where guests can use free loungers at Cua Dai Beach. An Bang Beach, lined with hip restaurants and lounges popular with expats and Western tourists, is just a 15-minute drive from the hotel. The stunning Marble Mountains are just about a half-hour drive away. Danang International Airport can be reached in 45 minutes by car.

The hotel has 150 rooms ranging in size between 345- and 861-square-feet, spread over three three-story buildings. Decor varies between room types, but all are elegant. Superior Rooms are comfortable and spacious with dark wooden furniture, cream-colored floor tiles, white walls, and a subdued earth palette throughout. The only local touch is a large black-and-white photo of Hoi An streets above the bed. The rest of the room categories have a few nice extras that add style, such as dark wooden furniture with more traditional Vietnamese influences, hardwood floors, and silk-like accent pillows on beds. All rooms are well equipped with free Wi-Fi, air-conditioning, minibars, LCD TVs, and electric kettles with free tea and coffee. Two free bottles of water are restocked every day. We saw some wear on furniture in Superior Rooms, but the rest of the property is overall in good shape, as there have been extensive renovations several times since the hotel opened in 1991. Some guests have complained of overly firm beds, but this is fairly common in Vietnam. One nice touch is a welcome bowl of tropical fruit placed in all rooms on arrival. 

Not all bathrooms were refurbished in the last round of renovations, and some are more modern-looking than others. Older bathrooms are clean and in decent shape for the most part, with big shower/tub combos, and gray and white tiles throughout. Renovated bathrooms are nicer, with big rain showers, contemporary beige tiles on floors and walls, and round sinks over black counters. Hairdryers and combs are provided in all rooms, along with shampoo, shower gel, and hair conditioner in big containers. 

Rooms overlooking the pool may get noise during school vacation periods.

The hotel’s big pool is located in the central garden, complete with a spacious deck with a number of loungers, a shallower area for kids, and a small whirlpool. A small covered path built above a skinny lotus pond leads to the spa, which has four rooms decorated with traditional Vietnamese elements and a soothing natural palette. The spa menu includes an array of body treatments and salon services. There's also a sauna, a steam room, and a whirlpool that guests can use before or after their treatments. The sun-filled fitness center has six cardio and strength-training machines in a small room overlooking the pool. Guest can also use a well-maintained tennis court free of charge, or join the free tai chi lessons available a couple of times per week. Vietnamese language classes are also on offer. There are also a number of bikes that guests can borrow for free to explore the area.

Dining options are varied and good at the Hoi An Historic Hotel. Indochina Corner and Oak Terrace are the main restaurants, located adjacent to each other and with access to a large shared garden with several tables. Breakfast is included in all rates, and offers an array of Asian and Western options, such as eggs, salads, pastries, juices, and noodles. Vietnamese cuisine, including a few Hoi An specialties, is offered for lunch and dinner. Room service is available 24/7. 

Wi-Fi is free throughout the hotel. There's a business center and a shop that sells jewelry, art, and clothing.