Hanoi is one of the oldest capitals in the world, where you can find well-preserved colonial buildings, ancient pagodas and unique museums in the center of the city. The city still has a lively atmosphere. From the early hours until late in the evening, the streets are swarming with moving motorcycles. There are a lot of things to do in Hanoi. You can hunt for delicious street food, visit colonial buildings and explore the local life. Not to mention the peaceful countryside is a short drive away, with lush forests, green mountains and traditional villages, not to mention the iconic Halong Bay.
5 reasons to visit Hanoi
Explore the old city center; Hanoi Old Quarter.
Walk around the Hoan Kiem lake.
Visit one of the many museums about the Vietnam War.
Enjoy a traditional water puppet show.
Use Hanoi as a base to discover the north of Vietnam.
Best time to visit
Best travel time: Fall (around September to November) and spring (March and April) are the two best seasons. Then the weather is pleasant with milder temperatures.
Winter: During this period (December to February) it is quite cold in Hanoi when temperatures can drop below 10 degrees.
Summer: It is very hot in Hanoi from May to August, with July as the hottest month. A lot of rain can fall.
25 best things to do in Hanoi
Discover the best things to do in Hanoi, Vietnam’s bustling capital, from exploring ancient temples and sampling street food delicacies to strolling through vibrant markets and enjoying scenic views of the city’s iconic landmarks.
1. Explore the Old Quarter on foot
The Old Quarter of Hanoi (Hanoi Old Quarter) is the most famous landmark in Hanoi. It is a fascinating part of the city where you can enjoy many beautiful examples of colonial architecture that is packed along narrow streets. Endless traffic of scooters, motorcycles, bicycles and cars zigzag around traders who sell fruit and souvenirs and narrow shops with delicious Vietnamese dishes.
Hanoi Old Quarter brings to life what many people imagine what Hanoi is. Exploring this area on foot is one of the best things to do in Hanoi. You can also rent bicycles or go through the streets with a cyclo.
2. Street food tour
Vietnamese are the most proud of their food and it is being sold on each corner; both in restaurants and on the street (street food) You’ll see street food in Hanoi everywhere you look; stalls on the sidewalk along the side of the road with often plastic blue stools around where they sell local food. Every street food stall is specialized in a certain dish and everything is freshly made. Eating at one of the stalls is often very tasty and a great local experience.
Tip: You can go exploring yourself, but a much nicer way is by a Hanoi street food tour. A guide takes you to the best local spots that you would never discover yourself. It explains what you eat and you can try out the best and most unique food. Extra benefits are that you will eat at safe hygienic places and besides the food, the guide can tell and show you more about the local culture too.
3. Water puppet show
The old art form of the water puppet show in Hanoi is certainly one of the nicest things to see. There are several theaters where you can enjoy this unique Vietnamese take on Asian puppetry tradition. The original and generally regarded as the best theater in the city is the Thang Long Puppet Theater. Dolls dance and glide elegantly across the stage of water, controlled by a whole group of dolls of masters hiding behind a screen.
4. Drink Bia Hoi - the cheapest beer in the world
One of the best things to do in Hanoi is indulging in Bia Hoi, the world’s cheapest beer. While the taste may not appeal to everyone, the true allure lies in the unique experience of sitting on small stools amidst locals on the street, immersing yourself in the vibrant atmosphere and becoming a part of the local culture.
5. Long Bien Bridge & Market
Long Bien Bridge is an iconic structure spanning the Red River in Hanoi, Vietnam. Built during the French colonial era, the bridge played a vital role in both the Indochina War and the Vietnam War. Today, it is a popular spot to stroll across, take in the views of the river and city, and experience the bustling Long Bien market located nearby. At the market, you can immerse yourselve in the vibrant local culture and sample a variety of delicious street foods.
6. Hoan Kiem Lake
Hoan Kiem Lake is a central point in Hanoi and is a popular meeting place for locals and tourists all day long. Ngoc Son Temple is located on a small island in the middle of the lake and is connected by a bridge and forms a beautiful backdrop for a few photos.
Around sunrise and sunset this area becomes especially busy with joggers, couples enjoying the relaxing view of the lake, and elderly people practicing Tai Chi and line dancing.
7. Walk around the Hoa Lo Prison Museum
A visit to the Hoa Lo Prison Museum is one of the best things to do in Hanoi as it provides a glimpse into the darker side of Vietnam’s history. The prison, also known as the “Hanoi Hilton,” was used to hold political prisoners during the French colonial period and later American prisoners of war during the Vietnam War. You can see the original cells and artifacts from the prison’s past, as well as learn about the stories of the prisoners held there.
8. Mausoleum
Visiting the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum is a must for anyone interested in Vietnamese history and culture. The mausoleum houses the preserved body of Vietnam’s beloved revolutionary leader, Ho Chi Minh, and offers a unique opportunity to pay respect to one of the most important figures in Vietnamese history.
9. Hanoi train street
Another great thing to do in Hanoi is a visiting Hanoi Train Street. The photos and videos are world famous, in which shop owners, café owners and residents, as if it were the most normal thing in the world, put away their things to let a train pass through the narrow, busy street.
Due to safety regulations, many coffee shops along the train street had to close, but you can still visit this unique railroad track through the residential area. Just keep in mind that there are real trains on this track.
10. Visit the St. Joseph's Cathedral
St. Joseph’s Cathedral is a beautiful Gothic-style church in the heart of Hanoi. The architecture is striking, with its tall spires and stained glass windows. Visitors can admire the intricate details of the cathedral’s interior and attend Mass with the local congregation.
11. Walk around the West Lake and Tran Quoc Pagoda
Walking around the West Lake and visiting the Tran Quoc Pagoda is one of the best things to do in Hanoi as it provides a peaceful and scenic escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. The Tran Quoc Pagoda is the oldest temple in Hanoi and features a stunning seven-story pagoda and many intricate statues and carvings. Additionally, the West Lake area has many great restaurants and cafes where you can relax and enjoy the serene surroundings.
12. Take a cyclo tour of the city
Taking a cyclo tour in Hanoi is a great way to explore the city’s sights and sounds. Visitors can expect to see landmarks such as Hoan Kiem Lake, the Old Quarter, and the French Quarter, while also experiencing the bustling street life and local culture up close. It’s a unique and memorable way to discover Hanoi’s charms.
12. See the ancient Temple of Literature
The Temple of Literature is a well-preserved example of traditional Vietnamese architecture and design, making it a must-visit for anyone interested in history and culture. As the site of Vietnam’s first university, the temple also holds great significance for the country’s educational and intellectual history. Visitors can enjoy peaceful gardens, intricate pagodas, and learn about the country’s ancient scholars and their academic pursuits.
13. Explore Imperial City of Thang Long
Exploring the Imperial City of Thang Long is a must-do in Hanoi because it offers a glimpse into the country’s rich history and culture. The UNESCO World Heritage Site features centuries-old structures, including the imposing Hanoi Flag Tower and the breathtakingly beautiful Doan Mon Gate. You can stroll through the vast courtyards and gardens, admire ancient relics and artifacts, and learn about the dynasties that once ruled over the region.
14. Stilt house & Presidential palace
The Stilt House and Presidential Palace in Hanoi offer a glimpse into Vietnam’s political history. You can see where Ho Chi Minh lived and worked, and explore the grounds that were once the residence of the French Governor-General.
15. Cycling in Hanoi
Cycling in Hanoi is a great way to explore the city and experience the local life. Although the traffic might seem intimidating at first, it is completely safe with a guide who can lead you through the best routes and help you navigate the streets. Cycling allows you to see more than just the Old Quarter and provides an authentic glimpse into the daily lives of Hanoians.
16. Visit traditional villages
There are several traditional villages surrounding Hanoi that offer a glimpse into rural Vietnamese life and crafts. Bat Trang is known for its ceramic pottery, Van Phuc for silk weaving, and Dong Ho for woodblock printing. You can experience the traditional production techniques and purchase handmade goods directly from the artisans.
17. See the One Pillar Pagoda
The One Pillar Pagoda is a national symbol of Vietnam. It has been depicted on Vietnamese currency, and it is recognized as one of the country’s most iconic cultural and religious landmarks. You can explore the pagoda’s peaceful grounds and learn about its cultural significance in Vietnamese history.
18. Hanoi Ceramic Mosaic Mural
The Hanoi Ceramic Mosaic Mural is a 4-kilometer long artwork located in the heart of Hanoi. It is made up of thousands of ceramic pieces and depicts scenes from Vietnamese history and culture.
19. Shop at the Dong Xuan Market
Shopping at the Dong Xuan Market is one of the best things to do in Hanoi because it offers a truly authentic experience of Vietnamese local life and culture. The market is a bustling hub of activity where you can find a wide range of goods such as souvenirs, clothing, accessories, and food. It’s also an excellent place to practice your bargaining skills and score some great deals.
20. Visit the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology
The Vietnam Museum of Ethnology is a museum that showcases the cultural diversity of Vietnam’s 54 ethnic groups. It features both indoor and outdoor exhibitions, as well as educational programs and research facilities.
21. Wake up early for the Quang Ba Flower Market
The Quang Ba Flower Market is a bustling market that comes to life before dawn with the colors and fragrances of flowers and fresh produce. Waking up early to visit the market gives a unique insight into the local culture and daily life in Hanoi.
22. Enjoy the sunset of a rooftop bar
Enjoying the sunset of a rooftop bar in Hanoi is one of the best things to do in Hanoi as it offers a stunning panoramic view of the city’s skyline and an opportunity to relax while enjoying a drink. It’s a great way to end the day after a day of exploring the city and taking in the sights and sounds of Hanoi.
23.Visit the Women's Museum
The Women’s Museum in Hanoi showcases the role and contribution of Vietnamese women in society, history, and culture through a diverse range of exhibits and displays, making it a unique and informative attraction to visit in the city.
24.Explore Ninh Binh in a day
A day tour from Hanoi to Ninh Binh is a popular option for those who want to escape the city and experience the beautiful countryside. You can choose to take the Tam Coc or Trang An boat trip to enjoy the scenic karst landscape. Mua Cave viewpoint is also a nice spot to enjoy the panoramic view of the region. For a more immersive experience, you can also cycle around the countryside.
However, if you have the time, it is recommended to stay in Ninh Binh for at least 2 days or longer to fully explore the area.
25. Take a day trip to the Perfume Pagoda
A day trip to the Perfume Pagoda from Hanoi is definitely worth it if you want to explore the scenic countryside and experience a unique religious and cultural attraction. You’ll have the opportunity to take a boat ride along the scenic waterway and hike up to the hillside pagoda complex.
Food & drinking
Restaurants
Deciphering Hanoi’s street food scene can be astonishing, but it is worth keeping up and diving into. The city’s best food comes from the dozens of vendors that line the city’s sidewalks with smoking charcoal burners, tiny plastic stools and queues of locals.
Nightlife
There is is a lot to do at night in Hanoi. You can join the locals with a beer on the street, go clubbing, chill in a bar or enjoy a impressive performance in the Opera House.
Bia Hoi Junction
Hanoi Opera House
Dragonfly
Legend Beer
Water Puppet Theatre
Hoan Kiem Lake
Craft Beer Pub
Weekend Night Market
Hero Club Hanoi
Savage
Sale1vietnamvoyage@gmail.com
CALL EXPERT: +84947766899
21:21 | 12/04/2024
.jpg "Calista Cruise Ha Long Bay 2 Days 1 Night")
