To compile the rankings, the company analyzed 23 under-the-radar city destinations worldwide, taking into account factors such as affordability, the number of unique experiences and average weather conditions. Each destination was given a score out of 100, with experience density, measured by the number of standout activities and restaurants relative to the city’s size, accounting for 50%, affordability 40%, and weather 10%.

Travel + Leisure noted Hoi An’s appeal, ranking it first with a score of 92.96. Its Old Town forms the city’s core, featuring lantern-lined streets, historic architecture and landmarks such as the Japanese Covered Bridge.

“Compact and easy to navigate, the UNESCO-listed district is comprised of low-rise buildings, small shops and local businesses clustered along the Thu Bon River,” the magazine noted.

Most attractions, cafés and restaurants are within walking distance, making it easy to explore on foot. At night, glowing lanterns and drifting boats along the river create a postcard-like scene.

“Hoi An feels like a window into the past,” said Taylor McIntyre, senior visual editor at the magazine, who visited in 2022. “This picturesque village is filled with colorful homes, ancient temples, and beautiful silk lanterns,” she added.

Food is a key part of the experience in Hoi An, Travel + Leisure noted, with local favourites such as bánh mì (Vietnamese baguette), cao lầu (thick rice-flour noodles with bean sprouts and pork-rind croutons in a light broth) and white rose dumplings widely available, alongside Vietnamese coffee served from street stalls to lively cafés. After dark, the focus shifts to the riverfront, where Hoi An Night Market draws visitors with its food stalls, vendors and souvenir stands.

Beyond the historic centre, visitors can head to the tree-lined An Bang Beach or try local activities such as basket boat rides through coconut groves and short trips along nearby waterways.

Other hidden gem cities on the list include Brugge in Belgium, Essaouira and Chefchaouen in Morocco, Calabria in Italy, Paros in Greece, Cambridge in the UK, Belgrade in Serbia, and Cascais in Portugal.

US travel site ranks Hoi An among Asia’s top four destinations for 2026

VOV.VN - US-based travel website Travel Off Path has named Hoi An Ancient Town, now part of the central coastal city of Da Nang, among its top four destinations in Asia to visit in 2026, ranking third on the list.