29 Top Things to Do When Visiting Hanoi, Vietnam

Top Things to Do in Hanoi

1. Explore the Hanoi Old Quarter

The Old Quarter is the heart of Hanoi. It’s a lively area with narrow streets, colorful shops, and colonial-era buildings. Visit Hang Bac Street, known as Silver Street, to see traditional silver workshops. You can also take a cycling tour to explore hidden spots like the One Pillar Pagoda and Long Bien Bridge.

2. Visit Hoan Kiem Lake

Hoan Kiem Lake, or the Lake of the Returned Sword, is a peaceful spot in the city center. Legend says a golden turtle returned a magic sword here. The Turtle Tower, located in the middle of the lake, honors this story. The best times to visit are sunrise and sunset.

3. See Ngoc Son Temple

Ngoc Son temple sits on an island in Hoan Kiem Lake. Cross the bright red Huc Bridge to reach it. The temple honors a national hero who defeated the Mongols in the 13th century.

4. Shop at Dong Xuan Market

Dong Xuan Market is a four-story market where you can find souvenirs, fresh produce, and street food. Bargaining is a must to get the best deals.

5. Marvel at St. Joseph’s Cathedral

St. Joseph’s Gothic-style cathedral looks like Notre Dame in Paris. It’s one of the oldest buildings from the French colonial era. Step inside to admire its beautiful stained-glass windows.

6. Visit the Hanoi Night Market

On weekends, Hang Dao Street comes alive with the Hanoi Night Market. It’s perfect for shopping, eating, and enjoying Hanoi’s vibrant nightlife.

7. Relax at the Hanoi Social Club

Hanoi Social Club’s cozy cafe in a 1920s villa is a great place to unwind. It offers delicious food, vegetarian options, and refreshing drinks.

8. Take a Free Walking Tour

Hanoi offers free walking tours that take you through the Old Quarter, Hoan Kiem Lake, and other key spots. It’s a great way to learn about the city’s history and culture.

9. Stroll Through the French Quarter

The French Quarter, south of Hoan Kiem Lake, is quieter than the Old Quarter. It’s known for its wide streets and elegant French-style architecture.

10. Visit Hoa Lo Prison Museum

Lo Prison Museum called the Hanoi Hilton, this museum shows Vietnam’s history during the French colonial period and the Vietnam War. It’s both educational and emotional.

11. Tour the Hanoi Opera House

Modeled after the Paris Opera House, the Hanoi Opera House is a beautiful building in the French Quarter. It hosts performances like opera, ballet, and classical music.

12. Explore the National Museum of Vietnamese History

The National museum is in a former French school building. It showcases Vietnam’s history from ancient times to the modern era.

13. Learn at the Vietnamese Women’s Museum

Vietnamese Women’s Museum highlights the role of women in Vietnam’s history, culture, and family life. It’s one of the most visited museums in Hanoi.

14. Visit the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum

The Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum is where the body of Vietnam’s leader is preserved. Nearby, you can visit the Ho Chi Minh Museum to learn about his life.

15. See the Military History Museum

The Military History Museum displays war relics like tanks, planes, and weapons. It’s a must-visit for anyone interested in military history.

16. Enjoy the View from Lotte Tower

The Lotte Tower’s observation deck offers breathtaking views of Hanoi. The Skywalk, with its glass floor, is an exciting experience.

17. Explore the Imperial Citadel of Thang Long

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this ancient citadel has been a center of power for over 1,300 years. Walk through its gates, buildings, and gardens.

18. Visit the Temple of Literature

Vietnam’s first university, the Temple of Literature, is dedicated to scholars and poets. Its serene gardens and monuments are beautiful.

19. Watch a Water Puppet Show

Water Puppet Show traditional Vietnamese art combines puppetry, music, and storytelling. It’s a unique cultural experience.

20. Stroll Around West Lake

West Lake is Hanoi’s largest lake. It’s great for a peaceful walk or bike ride. Nearby, you can visit Tran Quoc Pagoda, the city’s oldest pagoda.

21. Visit Tran Quoc Pagoda

Tran Quoc beautiful pagoda sits on a small island in West Lake. It’s a peaceful place to visit and take photos.

22. Discover Bat Trang Ceramic Village

Just outside Hanoi, Bat Trang Ceramic village is famous for its pottery. You can even try making your own ceramic item.

23. Learn at the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology

Vietnam Museum of Ethnology showcases Vietnam’s 54 ethnic groups. It has exhibits, artifacts, and outdoor displays, including traditional houses.

24. Taste Egg Coffee

Hanoi is famous for egg coffee, a creamy drink made with egg yolks, sugar, and coffee. Try it at Giang Cafe, the original spot.

25. Visit Ba Vi National Park

If you love nature, head to Ba Vi National Park, just outside Hanoi. It’s perfect for hiking and enjoying fresh air.

26. See Long Bien Bridge

Designed by Gustave Eiffel, the Long Bien historic bridge is a symbol of Hanoi. Walk or cycle across it for views of the Red River.

27. Explore Hanoi Train Street

Train Street is a narrow lane where trains pass inches from homes. Grab a coffee and watch the trains go by.

28. Visit Quang Ba Flower Market

Open late at night. Quang Ba Flower Market is full of colorful flowers. It’s a lively spot for photos and local culture.

29. Enjoy Hanoi’s Street Food

Hanoi is a street food paradise. Try dishes like pho (noodle soup), banh mi (Vietnamese sandwich), and bun cha (grilled pork with noodles).

Where to Stay in Hanoi

Hanoi offers a wide range of accommodations, from budget hostels to luxury hotels. Popular areas to stay include:

• Old Quarter: Perfect for first-time visitors. It’s lively and close to many attractions.
• French Quarter: Quieter, with upscale hotels and elegant surroundings.
• West Lake: Ideal for those who prefer a peaceful area with scenic views.

How to Get Around Hanoi

Getting around Hanoi is easy with these options:

• Walking: Ideal for exploring the Old Quarter and nearby attractions.
• Cyclo Rides: Traditional three-wheeled bicycles for short trips.
• Motorbike Taxis: Quick and affordable. Apps like Grab are helpful.
• Buses: Budget-friendly but may be crowded.
• Taxis: Available everywhere but make sure the meter is running.

Food and Drinks in Hanoi

Street Food

Hanoi’s street food is amazing! Small stalls on the sidewalks have people sitting on tiny stools, enjoying delicious food. The smell of food cooking on charcoal grills fills the air. It might look busy and confusing, but trying street food is a must!

Local Restaurants

Here are some popular places to eat local food:

• Hong Hoai’s Restaurant
• Hoang’s Restaurant
• Green Farm Restaurant
• Bun Cha Ta
• Banh Mi 25
• Bun Bo Nam Bo
• New Day Restaurant

Fancy Dining (Fine Dining)

If you want something fancier, try these restaurants:

• Madam Yen Restaurant
• The Gourmet Corner Restaurant
• Cau Go Vietnamese Cuisine Restaurant
• Essence Restaurant
• Ngon Villa Restaurant

Nightlife in Hanoi

Hanoi is full of life at night! You can:

• Drink beer on the street with locals.
• Dance in clubs.
• Relax in bars.
• Watch shows at the Opera House.

Popular night spots:

• 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

Tips for Traveling in Hanoi

Where to Go Next?

Hanoi is a great starting point for exploring northern Vietnam. Popular places to visit nearby include:

• Sapa: Trek through rice fields.
• Halong Bay: Enjoy a cruise in a beautiful bay.
• Ninh Binh: Take a boat and bike rides through rice fields.
• Mai Chau: See rice paddies and local villages.
• Ha Giang: Admire stunning mountains.

Traveling with Kids

Hanoi is busy, with lots of traffic and small sidewalks, but kids will love the experience! Take them to museums, ride a cyclo around the lake, or try a street food tour.

Language

Most people in Hanoi’s hotels and restaurants speak basic English, so you’ll get by easily. Tourist signs and menus are often in English too.

How to Dress

Hanoi is tourist-friendly, but if you visit temples, wear clothes that cover your shoulders and knees.

• Summer: It’s very hot (May to August) and often rainy.
• Winter: It can get quite cold (December to February).
• Best Times to Visit: Spring (March-April) or Fall (September-November) have the best weather.

5 Reasons to Visit Hanoi

1. Explore the Old Quarter.
2. Stroll around Hoan Kiem Lake.
3. Learn about the Vietnam War in museums.
4. Watch a water puppet show.
5. Use Hanoi as a base to visit other amazing places in the north!