Best Things to Do in Hanoi

Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam, is famous for centuries-old architecture and rich culture with the influence of from Southeast Asia, China and France. With more than 1000 years of civilization, from Thang Long time to present, Hanoi has always been the largest cultural center of the country with a lot of material and non-material relics. This is the land producing many legends, folk songs, proverbs, heroes and folk festival. What makes Hanoi especial is its diverse culture and various cultural culture activities, which makes it a famous and beloved destination for tourists when coming to Vietnam.

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If you’re still wondering about what is are worth doing in this place or confused because of fragmented information, this article is what you need.
In order to help you have the best and unforgettable experiences in Hanoi, this article will suggest you the best things to do when visiting this wonderful place. So now let’s explore Hanoi with us!

1. Have a walk around Hoan Kiem Lake

Hoan Kiem Lake is a famous icon of Hanoi, which is about 500 meters from the center of the Old Quarter. This is a favorable place for of the locals as well as tourists because it gives the tranquil and comfortable feel feelings among the bustling city. In the morning, the locals come here to do morning exercise and jog. In the evening, the lake is brightened brighten up with colorful lights and becomes an attractive spot with a lot of activities. What is more, Hoan Kiem Lake is at its best from Friday to Sunday night because all traffics are banned at that time so that you can leisurely walk around the lake and enjoy the beauty of Hanoi

Location: Hang Trong Street

Best time to visit: From 7PM – 10PM Saturday and Sunday

2. Admire St Joseph’s Cathedral

St Joseph’s Cathedral was built with the neo-Gothic style in the 19th century. The cathedral has a lot of imitation of the Notre Dame de Paris. This is a religious place of many Catholics in Hanoi and also a tourist attraction to many domestic and foreign visitors. Built-in the French colonial period, the Cathedral is a typical colonial-style architecture in Hanoi.

Location: 40 Nha Chung Street

Opening hours: 8–11AM, 2–5PM Monday to Saturday; 7–10:30AM, 3–9PM in Sunday

3. Visit Ngoc Son Temple

Ngoc Son Temple is located on a small island in Hoan Kiem Lake. To reach Ngoc Son Temple, you have to cross the red The Huc Bridge. Coming to the temple, you can learn about the history of Hanoi associated with the Hoan Kiem Lake and view the entire Hoan Kiem Lake with Turtle Tower. This is a tourist destination that can not be missed when traveling Hanoi Old Quarter.

Location: Hoan Kiem Lake, Hang Trong Street

Opening hours: 7AM – 6PM Monday to Friday; 7AM – 9PM Saturday & Sunday

Note: Take on polite clothes when visiting the temple because this is a religious place

4. Visit Hanoi Opera House

Hanoi Opera House (in France: Opéra de Hanoï) is an opera house in central Hanoi, Vietnam. It was built by the French colonial government from 1901 to 1911. This is a famous and typical colonial architecture in Hanoi, attracting a lot of tourists.

Location: 1 Trang Tien Street

Opening hours: Daily 14:30 – 15:20/ 15:30 – 16:20/ 16:30 – 17:20 Opening Opening hours: 7AM – 10PM

Price: VND 400,000/person

5. Enjoy Trang Tien ice cream

This ice cream brand was founded in 1958 and has the name Trang Tien because it is made and sold at Trang Tien Street. The delicious and perfect taste of the ice cream will make you want more. Additionally, what can be better than walking around Hanoi Old Quarter with the corn of ice cream?

Location: 35 Trang Tien Street

Opening hours: 8AM – 10PM

Price: VND 7,000 – VND 20,000

6. Go shopping at Dong Xuan Market

Dong Xuan Market is one of the largest markets in Hanoi. Here you have the opportunity to visit and shopping with many items ranging from household items to clothes. You can also buy souvenirs and enjoy local street food at this market. It will definitely be a brand new experience for you.

Location: Dong Xuan Ward

Opening hours: 7AM – 7PM

7. Visit Bach Ma Temple

This temple is considered to be the oldest temple in Hanoi, located right in the center of Old Ol Quarter. It was formally built by King Ly Thai To in the 11th century to honor a white horse that helped him choose the right place to construct his city walls.

Location: 76 Hang Buom Street

Note: Dress politely and do not make to much noise when visiting the temple

8. Enjoy the view from Long Bien Bridge

Built-in Built in the late nineteenth century and completed in the twentieth century, Long Bien bridge has witnessed many attacks ravaging the capital Hanoi of the French empire. The bridge also contributes to the people and our army transporting weapons and food for the war. Until now, the bridge has been renovated many times but still retains the original features. The bridge is just over 2.3 km long so visitors can walk or go by bike to enjoy the view of the Red River, watch the barges floating underneath.

9. Visit Ma May old house

As one of the old houses of Hanoi, 87 Ma May House reflects the living space and typical Hanoi ancient architecture. Today, this place becomes an interesting tourist destination in the Old Quarter for the locals as well as international tourists. Besides cultural activities such as Ca Tru singing in the evening, this place also displays many Vietnamese traditional handicrafts.

Location: 87 Ma May Street

Opening hours: 8AM – 8PM

Price: VND 5,000 – VND 10,000/person

10. Take photos at O Quan Truong

This is one of the gates of Hanoi capital which still remains until now. As time goes by, the gate stands still with time, witnessed many important historical events of the country as well as the ups and downs of Ha Thanh people.

Location: Dong Xuan Ward

11. Temple of Literature

If you have the opportunity to travel to Hanoi, you should take a moment to visit Van Mieu – Quoc Tu Giam, the first university in Vietnam, where there are many interesting things for you to explore. Temple of Literature was built in October 1070, by King Ly Thanh Tong. In 1076, King Ly Nhan Tong founded the Quoc Tu Giam, next to the Temple of Literature. This is the first university in Vietnam. Initially, the school was dedicated to the children from the royal family. Later, in 1253, King Tran Thai Tong changed the Quoc Tu Giam to Quoc hoc vien, also acquiring all the ordinary children with excellent academic qualities.

Location: 58 Quoc Tu Giam Street

Opening hours: 7:30AM – 6PM from Monday to Friday; 8AM – 9PM Saturday & Sunday

Price: VND 30,000/ adult, VND 15,000/ child Children under 15 years old: free ticket.

12. Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum

This is the final resting place of the greatest father of Vietnam, Ho Chi Minh President, who devoted his whole life to Vietnamese. The construction of this mausoleum started on August 29, 1975. The mausoleum consists of three floors with a height of 21.6 meters and a width of 41.2 meters. Around the mausoleum are gardens where over 250 plant species from all parts of the country.

Location: Hung Vuong Street, Ba Dinh District

Opening days: From Tuesday to Sunday

Opening hours: 7AM – 11AM Summer: 7.30 AM – 11.30 AM; Winter: 8AM – 11AM

Price: VND 25,000/ person Vietnamese: free ticket/ Foreigner: 25,000 VND/person

Note: Do not wear shorts or miniskirts

13. Imperial Citadel of Thang Long

Thang Long Royal Citadel is a historical relic of the ancient Thang Long Citadel, dating from the pre-Thang Long period (VII century) through the Dinh-Le Dynasty. This is a massive architectural work, built and developed under the Ly, Tran, Le dynasty, and then became the most important monument in the system of relics of Vietnam. Thang Long Citadel was recognized by UNESCO as the world’s cultural heritage.

Location: 9 Hoang Dieu Street

Opening hours: 8AM – 11h30 AM 12:30 PM & 2 PM 1:30PM – 5PM everyday

Price: VND 30,000/ person

Student: VND 15,000/person

Elders (>60 years old): VND 15,000/person

Children under 15 and those with meritorious services to the revolution: free ticket

14. Hoa Lo Prison

Hoa Lo Prison, formerly known as Maison Centrale while the Vietnamese name is Hanoi Prison, is an old prison located on Hoa Lo Street , Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi. This prison was built in 1896 by the French in that area with the purpose of capturing political prisoners. and patriotic anti-colonialists. Visiting the prison, you can learn a lot about the colonial period in Vietnam.

Location: 1 Hoa Lo Street

Opening hours: 8AM – 8PM

Price: VND 35,000/ person

Price: VND 30,000/person

Student: VND 15,000/person

Children under 15: free ticket

15. Hanoi Flag Tower

The flag tower built in the early 19th century is one of a few Hanoi remaining pre-war relics. Today, it becomes an important symbol of the nation. On the top of the Hanoi flag tower, the national flag flutters every day. Visitors can walk down the stairs leading up to the flagpole to admire the military museum and Lenin park below, then visit the museum nearby to learn more about the military history of Vietnam.

Location: Le Hong Phong Street

Opening hours: 7AM – 9AM

16. Hanoi West Lake

West Lake is one of the famous destinations in Hanoi capital, where many historical and cultural relics associated with the development of Hanoi. The beauty of West Lake is a romantic, poetic charm in colorful paintings of Hanoi. You can truly find peace when walking around the lake.

Location: Tay Ho District

17. Drink beer at Ta Hien street

With a length of about 100 meters from Hang Buom to Hang Bac, Ta Xien is one of the most famous streets in the center of the old town. This street attracts a large number of young people and foreign tourists every evening aftẻevening. With adjacent bars and houses, people find this small street a perfect place to have a beer and chat with friends. Not only beer but Ta now also welcome visitors with unique local street food such as Banh Xeo, rice noodle, etc.

Location: Ta Hien Street

Opening hours: 8AM – 10PM

18. Visit Night market in Hanoi Old Quarter

Hanoi Old Quarter night market is held from 6PM to 11PM every weekend evening at the walking street. The night market lasts nearly 3 km, starting from Dao Street, Dong Kinh Nghia Thuc Square through Hang Ngang, Hang Duong Street, and ending at Dong Xuan Market. After enjoying delicious food at the night market, you can leisurely walk and go shopping. Especially, on every Saturday night, the night market street is a place for traditional arts such as contemporary hip hop, violin, Ca Tru,…which attracts a lot of visitors. This is also the unique highlight of the old town night market.

Location: Hang Dao Street

Opening hours: 6PM – 11PM Friday, Saturday & Sunday night

19. Enjoy street food in Dong Xuan Market

You will be lost in the street food paradise when visiting Dong Xuan market by night. There are a lot of choices for you to enjoy interesting interesting and unique local food of Hanoi. From Bun Cha, Banh Xeo, Nem Nuong to a lot of sweet and tasty dessert like sweet red bean soups, ice cream…All will make you feel the real life of Hanoi.

Location: Dong Xuan Market, Dong Xuan Street

Opening hours: 6PM – 11PM

20. Watching Water Puppet Show

Water puppetry is a traditional stage that can not be missed in Vietnam in general and especially in Hanoi. Although the story is told entirely in Vietnamese, the music and gestures of the wooden puppets can still convey the story content to everyone, so the theater is always crowded with crowded domestic and foreign visitors. Famous historical legends are depicted by colorful wooden puppets on the stage are water, which will be a brand new experience for tourists.

Location: Thang Long water puppet Theater, 57b Dinh Tien Hoang Street

21. Vietnam history museum

The National History Museum, located in Hoan Kiem District, has a collection of monuments dating back to prehistoric times. The Museum is currently preserving about 200,000 objects and materials of Vietnamese cultural history. More than 80,000 documents and precious objects of the Communist Party of Vietnam and Uncle Ho … can also be found here.

Location: 1 Trang Tien Street & 214 Tran Quang Khai Street

Opening hours: 8AM – 12PM & 1PM – 5PM

Price: VND 40,000/ adult, VND 10,000/ student child

Students of universities, colleges, and vocational schools: VND 20,000 / person/ticket

Children under 6/Heavy disabled person: free ticket.

22. Vietnamese Women’s museum

Vietnamese Women’s Museum is located at 36 Ly Thuong Kiet Street. The museum honors the beauty and noble values of women across the country. The artifacts displayed in the Museum are arranged in 3 themes: Women in the family; Women in History and Women Fashion. Visiting the museum, visitors have the opportunity to learn and contemplate Vietnamese women through rituals, married family life; listen to stories about Vietnamese heroic women, admire the artistic achievements created by the women’s hand.

Location: 36 Ly Thuong Kiet Street

Opening hours: 8AM – 5PM

Price: VND 30,000/ adult, VND 10,000/ student child

children under 10 and disabled people: free ticket

23. Ho Chi Minh museum

Ho Chi Minh Museum is the place to store objects associated with President Ho Chi Minh – the pride of the Vietnamese people. The museum is located at 19 Ngoc Ha Street, Ba Dinh District, just behind Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum. The exhibits in the Museum describe the life and career of President Ho Chi Minh. In addition to displaying, recreating his fighting career, the Museum also displayed, introduced the outstanding literature of President Ho Chi Minh, or the articles, documents on the beloved leader.

Location: 19 Ngoc Ha Street, Ba Dinh District

Opening hours: 8AM – 12PM & 2PM – 5PM

Price: VND 25,000

Foreigners: 40,000 VND/person

Vietnamese/Disabled people/member of ICOM: free ticket

24. Vietnam museum of ethnology

Come to the Vietnam Museum of ethnology, you will learn about the customs of 54 ethnic groups, from weddings, daily activities to traditional funerals. Specially, you will see typical houses of each ethnic group, such as the stilt house, the communal house, the longhouse … Also/besides, In addition, there are also pictures of Southeast Asia with different topics.

Location: Nguyen Van Huyen Street

Opening hours: 8AM – 5PM

Price: VND 40,000/ adult person

VND 20,000/student; 10,000/children

See water puppet 90,000 VND / adult, 70,000 VND / children.

25. Vietnam Fine Art museum

Vietnam Fine Arts Museum was originally built by the French in the 1930s as a place for daughters of French officials from all over Indochina to study in Hanoi. In 1962, with the permission of the Government, the Ministry of Culture, Sport and Tourism has renovated this western architectural house, added Vietnam architecture to permanently display Vietnamese artworks. It is the most important place in preserving and promoting the cultural artistic heritage of the nation. This will be a great destination for those who are passionate about art, especially Fine Art.

Location: 66 Nguyen Thai Hoc Street

Opening hours: 8:30 AM – 5 PM

Price: VND 40,000/adult & VND 10,000/ child From 6 to 10

26. Try making potteries in Bat Trang Village

Bat Trang village (Gia Lam district, Hanoi), about 14km from the city center, famous for pottery, has been a trademark for 500 years.

It is very interesting to see vases, pots, and other ceramic products are displayed in every corner of the village. Visiting the pottery village, tourists are also introduced to introduce each stage of producing pottery. Pottery Market is the most impressive destination where hundreds of shops focus on countless pottery, ranging from home appliances such as bowls, vases to artistic wall paintings, wind chimes and necklaces…You can also try to make your own ceramic product with the help of local people. It will be a very interesting experience for tourists.

Location: Gia Lam District

Best time to visit: 9 AM – 5 PM

27. Visit Van Phuc Silk Village

Ha Dong silk village or Van Phuc silk village, is located in Van Phuc Ward, Ha Dong district, about 10 km from Hanoi center. This is a beautiful silk-making village that has been famous for thousands of years

Two sides of the road to the village are full of silk shops with all kinds of clothing, bags, silk fabrics with full color, eye-catching patterns. You can also visit the textile workshop, learn the process to create soft silk, from the stage such as silk sewing, spinning, sewing to dyeing … Each stage must Strictly follow the rules. In addition to this not only do visitors can see, choose to buy silk, but they can also visit the village temple, which worships the Master of textile.

Location: Van Phuc Ward, Ha Dong district

Best time to visit: 9AM – 5PM

28. Visit Duong Lam Old Village

On the way to the old village, urban life seems to be left behind, in front of are just the green fields and a peaceful village with banyan trees, wells. Please give yourself a peaceful weekend in this ancient village, and you will find it very interesting. There is a bicycle rental service for us to go all over the village without fear of leg pain anymore. You can contact Mr. Huyen’s house (the most beautiful old house in Duong Lam) for renting bicycles and cars.

Lunch in the ancient village is available for guests with all kinds of rice, noodles, or you can enjoy a few Phu Nhi cakes – a specialty of the village. A meal here is also simple with the rural food gives you a warm and idyllic feeling.

Location: Tay Son town, about 60 km away from Hanoi

Best time to visit: 8AM – 5PM

Price: VND 20,000/ adult, VND 10,000/ child

29. Thach Xa bamboo dragonfly village

Thach Xa village, located at the foot of Tay Phuong mountain (Thach Xa commune, Thach That district, Hanoi) is not only known for Lam tea specialties but also famous for its unique bamboo dragonfly. Come to the dragonfly village, you will be overwhelmed by the eye-catching colors, along with the various small designs of the cute bamboo dragonflies, and especially it can be balanced by the head of the beak. Especially, if you have the chance to come to Thach Xa trade village, do not forget to visit Tay Phuong Pagoda – a famous sightseeing site in the suburbs of Hanoi.

Location: Thach Xa Ward, Thach That Town

Best time to visit: 8AM – 16PM

30. Chang Son fan village

Chang Son is a traditional village famous for its creative and sophisticated hand-crafted fans. Although it has existed for hundreds of years, Chang Son village always cleverly transformed itself with the development of the country, preserving and promoting the country’s cultural quintessence. . In Chang Son, you cannot only visit the process of making traditional fans but also contemplate the idyllic landscape of village that Chang Son people always try to preserve.

Location: Chang Son village, Thch That Ward

Best time to visit: 9AM – 16PM

31. Thong Nhat Park

Being one of the biggest parks in Hanoi, there is a lake in the heart of it, Thong Nhat Park is a great choice for young people as a place to study, take part in cultural activities, extracurricular activities. There are also many beautiful architectures that contribute to making the landscape more lively.

Location: Tran Nhan Tong Street, Hai Ba Trung District

Opening hours: 6AM – 10PM

32. Thu Le Park

Built-in 1977 with about 20ha, Thu Le Park is located on Cau Giay – Kim Ma. It is home to nearly 600 animals. It can be said Thu Le is a place associated with the childhood of many young people in Hanoi. Also, in Thu Le Park there are many games for children, so it is a great place for families at the weekend.

Location: Kim Ma Street

Opening hours: 8AM – 610PM

Price: VND 5,000/person VND 10,000 VND/adult

33. Bach Thao Park

Hanoi Botanic Garden or Botanic Garden is a green park located in the northwest of Hanoi capital, was established in the early years when the French arrived in Vietnam during the colonial invasion. Botanic Gardens nowadays have become a valuable botanical garden to study, visit, and relax. In addition, visitors will have the opportunity to admire giant trees with long roots The group of si, poly, threads, wood vines, the baskets of Lan flowers, and colorful bonsai of the four heavens heaven. Botanic Gardens really contribute to the improvement of the living environment. The air here is always cool and fresh. The noise, smoke, and dust generated by transportation and industrial activities have been greatly reduced. The space is always quiet and pleasant.

Location: Ngoc Ha Ward, Ba Dinh District

Opening hours: 5AM – 10PM

Price: VND 5,000 – 15,000/person

34. Cau Giay Park

Having 3 special things compared to other parks in Hanoi: beautiful, safe, and free admission, Cau Giay Park now has become one of the most popular attractions in the city. The park is divided into three subdivisions: play area for children, sports area, the lake area, and the square is a walk of the residents living around the area. This is really the ideal destination for visitors to relax here, play after tired working days, pressure.

35. Attending a Hanoi street food tour

Hanoi is famous for not only a number of tourist sites, but also for its unique cuisine, especially those sold by the vendors. Once you travel to this city, do not miss the chance to join a Hanoi street food tour because you will have the chance to enjoy tasty dishes of Hanoi. This kind of tour may include local travel guide or not. Some try-worthy specialties are Bun dau mam tom (rice vermicelli with tofu and shrimp paste), Bun cha (Kebab rice vermicelli, Bun thang (Rice vermicelli with pork, chicken and eggs), Bun oc (Snail rice vermicelli), Banh duc (Vietnamese plain rice flan), Quay nong (Vietnamese cruller), etc. Normally, these dishes are affordable, thus, try to taste as many as possible.

Check our guide about Hanoi street food tour in here

36. Chilling in a Hanoi coffee shop

Coffee shop is not only where you enjoy coffee but also the getaways from the hustle and bustle of the daily life. In Hanoi, it is not too difficult to find a coffee shop at its every street and alley. If you are finding a place to work or you are interested in observing and watching the day passing by, you should choose some famous and kind of “mainstream” coffee shops, which are located right at some streets like The Coffee House, Cong Cafe, etc. But if you prefer more personal space, alongside with unique decoration, those deep into the alleys are definitely your ideal places. Music, or sometimes live music, is followed, as well.

Here are some highly-recommended coffee shops in Hanoi:

Cong Cafe

No. 39 Dien Bien Phu Street, Dien Bien Ward, Ba Dinh District

No. 101 Hoang Cau Street, O Cho Dua Ward, Dong Da District

No. 54 Hang Dieu Street, Cua Dong Ward, Hoan Kiem District

No. 35A Nguyen Huu Huan Street, Ly Thai To Ward, Hoan Kiem District

No. 101 Tran Huy Lieu Street, Giang Vo Ward, Ba Dinh District

The Coffee House

56A Ba Trieu Street, Tran Hung Dao Ward, Hoan Kiem District

No. 259 Kim Ma Street, Kim Ma Ward, Ba Dinh District

No. 68 Hoang Cau Street, O Cho Dua Ward, Dong Da District

No. 160 Nguyen Khanh Toan Street, Quan Hoa Ward, Cau Giay District

No. 122 Bui Thi Xuan Street, Bui Thi Xuan Ward, Hai Ba Trung District

Tranquil Books & Coffee

No. 18B Nguyen Bieu Street, Quan Thanh Ward, Ba Dinh District

No. 5 Nguyen Quang Bich Street, Cua Dong Ward, Hoan Kiem District

Cu Xa Cafe

2nd Floor, Khuong Thuong Collective Quarter, Ton That Tung Street, Kim Lien Ward, Dong Da District

The Little Plan Cafe

No. 11 Phu Doan Street, Hang Bong Ward, Hoan Kiem District

Xofa cafe & Bistro

No. 14 Tong Duy Tan Street, Hang Bong Ward, Hoan Kiem District

37. Attending a cooking class

As mentioned above, Vietnamese cuisine is really surprising and it is such a pity not to try those delicious dishes when you come to Vietnam. However, learning to cook Vietnamese dishes may even seem more interesting, especially when you are a cooking lover. Recently, it is becoming increasingly familiar and there are many cooking courses offered to tourists, especially foreigners. Most classes involve market tours in order to bring you the experience to explore the Vietnamese local life.

Here are some highly-recommended cooking classes in Hanoi for you to choose:

Rose Kitchen

Address: No. 294 Kim Ma Street, Kim Ma Ward, Ba Dinh District

Tel: (+84) 1645 508 508

Email: info@rosekitchen.com.vn

Hanoi Cooking Centre

Address: No. 44 Chau Long Street, Truc Bach Ward, Ba Dinh District

Tel: (+84) 243 715 0088

Email: info@hanoicookingcentre.com

Apron Up Cooking Class

Address: 3rd Floor, No. 66 Bat Su Street, Hang Bo Ward, Hoan Kiem District

Tel: (84) 942 606 486

Email: apronupcookingclass@gmail.com

38. Enjoying tea with friends

Tea has been a familiar piece of Hanoi culture. Normally, it is served in both hot and iced tea, but iced tea is more popular. Besides, lemon tea is a good choice in case you prefer something sweeter. Snacks like sunflower seeds and peanut candy are also available on the menu.

The area around Hoan Kiem Lake and St. Joseph’s Cathedral where you can admire the great views and talking with friends, tasting every sip of your tea, is the most famous and ideal for this kind of drink. It is not too difficult to come across a group of friends talking together over some lemon tea and sunflower seeds on a summer night, or some elderly men sitting in a narrow side of pavement, sipping their hot tea on a typical Hanoi cold day. Those simple things make this city “Hanoi” in its own way.

39. Observing the whole city from a high building

Have you ever wondered how Hanoi looks like from a high view? The answer is that it is amazing and you absolutely should give a try! Hanoi is a capital city with many skyscrapers. Once you stand on the terrace of a high building and observe it, the city is like a universe with a thousand stars shining. Also, you will have the chance to admire the sky which you can hardly see when you are on the streets. Then grab your buddies and spend a while chilling with stars and cloud. Lotte Observation Deck is the most highly-recommended one.

40. Making friends with the locals

Many travelers are interested in making friends with the people they met on the journey. As a matter of fact, meeting the locals helps you understand deeply the culture of the place, as well as provide you authentic and memorable experiences. Hence, do not hesitate on talking to a girl you met at a pub or a coffee shop, the guide or the host family. Traveling is not greater then.

41. Making yourself at home at a Hanoi homestay

Homestay has become a popular choice of accommodation for travelers because of their convenience, low price, and warm space the hosts bring up. As a tourist city, there are a number of homestays in Hanoi, which offer a wide range of service levels for you to choose. It is absolutely great to have a meal and talk with the hosts and acknowledge the ordinary life with those very local friends or else, chilling in the well-decorated room in a Hanoi cold day is really worth your while. Recently, many people in Hanoi choose this kind of accommodation as their ideal getaways to relax on weekends.

Here are some highly-recommended homestays in Hanoi:

Mong Hanoi

Address: No. 4/9 Hong Ha Street, Hoan Kiem District

Tel: (+84) 944 191 409

Email: monghanoi2gmail.com

Ca Homestay

Address: Alley 121, Da La Street, Truong Dinh Street, Hai Ba Trung District

Tel: (+84) 1279 293 109

Facebook: Ca Homestay

42. Hopping on a cyclo tour around Hanoi

Cyclo, as you may not know, is called Vietnamese “bicycle taxi”. Although it is faster and more convenient to travel by other means of transports, taking a cyclo tour around Hanoi may be an unforgettable experience when you are in Hanoi. A typical tour usually lasts 1 hour, providing you a ride around the Old Quarter of Hanoi or other must-sees like Hanoi Opera House, Hanoi Citadel, Ho Chi Minh’s Mausoleum, etc, as well as the close-up views of Hanoi and stories by the rider. You can easily find many riders in the area of The Old Quarter and make a deal with them to arrange a tour. However, it is our advice that you should book a tour from some operator in order not to be over-charged.

This is the highly-recommended cyclo tour operator in Hanoi:

Hanoi cyclo tours

Address:

No. 52A Long Bien 1 Street, Ngoc Lam Ward, Long Bien District

No. 74 Hang Bac Street, Hang Bac Ward, Hoan Kiem District

Tel: (+84) 243 993 1368

Price: from VND 220,000/person (there are discounts if you travel in a team)

Email: hanoicyclotour@gmail.com

Website: hanoicyclotours

43. Immersing yourself in an art gallery

Vietnam is home to a huge number of art works, most of which bear the distinct features of Asian culture. Visiting Hanoi – the land of Vietnamese traditional values – art spaces like galleries should not be missed.

Here are some highly-recommended art galleries in Hanoi:

Nguyen Art Gallery

Address: No. 31 Van Mieu Street, Van Mieu Ward, Dong Da District

Tel: (+84) 243 747 6001

Email: order@nguyenartgallery.com

Opening hours: 08:30 – 18:30 Monday to Saturday

CUC Gallery

Address: A4703 (Floor 47), Keangnam Hanoi Tower A, Duong Dinh Nghe Street, Nam Tu Liem Ward, Tu Liem District

Tel: +84 24 6252 3111

Email: contact@cucgallery.vn

Opening hours:

Green Palm Gallery

Address: 15 Trang Tien Street, Trang Tien Ward, Hoan Kiem District

39 Hang Gai Street, Hang Gai Ward, Hoan Kiem District

Tel: (+84) 243 9364 757

Email: info@greenpalmgallery.com

Opening hours: 08:00 – 20:00, Monday to Sunday

44. Having a night out at bars

As for Hanoi nightlife, the city’s lively bars are where you can enjoy the great tunes of music, taste a cocktail, or meet up with some nice local friends. Most of the bars conveniently situated in Hanoi Old Quarter and easy to get access.

Here are some highly-recommended bars in Hanoi:

O’Leary’s Sports Bar Hanoi

Address: No. 38 Ba Trieu Street, Trang Tien Ward, Hoan Kiem District

Rockstore Hanoi

Address: No. 61 Ma May Street, Hang Buom Ward, Hoan Kiem District

45. Taking photos with the Ao dai

Ao dai – the national costume of Vietnam – is a highlight in Vietnamese fashion, which follows both traditional and temporary styles, symbolizing for Vietnamese feminine beauty. Traveling to Hanoi, you can easily get yourself a set of Ao dai by buying or renting to take beautiful photos. Hoan Kiem Lake, Long Bien Bridge and some attractions of Hanoi are the ideal places to capture your moments.

46. Buying gifts for family and friends

Hanoi isa real huge shopping mall. Once you travel to this city, you will be immersed of not only the wide range of specialties, but also the local cultures here. It is quite obvious that everyone who travels loves to buy gifts for their family and friends after their trip. You will have the chance wandering in some crowded streets of Hanoi Old Quarter, getting inside local markets to find suitable gifts for the ones you love. Price is dependent on things you want to buy

47. Buying Flowers From A Peddler

Hanoi is well-known for the “12 flower seasons”. Every time in Hanoi, you can easily find a peddler riding a bicycle selling cut-fresh flowers. It could be the lotus or a bunch of tiny daisy. That could be such a sweet gift for your girlfriend or your wife.

48. Learning to bargain in a local market

Bargaining is truly a part of Vietnamese culture that you can easily see when going to markets. Though some local people consider it as a way of entertainment, we think that it is a necessary skill for foreign travelers when coming to Vietnam in order not to be overcharged. You should bargain each price in the markets, but remember to do it with politeness and humour. Walking away and acting as if you do not want that object anymore is a tool of bargaining. However, sometimes do not expect anyone to accept your price. It is just a shopping experience.

49. Having a massage in a spa

Massage is a way to relax after traveling hours. In Hanoi, there are many spas offering Vietnamese, Thai and Swedish massages. It is fairly easy to find one!

Here are some highly-recommended spas in Hanoi:

Hanoi La Belle Spa

Address: No. 92 Nguyen Huu Huan Street, Hang Bac Ward, Hoan Kiem District

Tel: (+84) 978 392 399

Opening hours: 09:00 – 23:00

Marguerite Spa

Address: No. 68 Ma May Street, Hang Buom Ward, Hoan Kiem District

Tel: (+84) 243 926 2464

Opening hours: 09:00 – 23:00

Serena Spa

Address: No. 299 Au Co Street, Nhat Tan Ward, Tay Ho District

Tel: (+84) 243 996 8866

Opening hours: 10:00 – 21:00

50. Exploring Hoan Kiem walking street

Hoan kiem Walking Street, which is opened only on the weekend, is one of the most favourite getaways of people from all walks of life in Hanoi. Thanks to the nice location around Hoan Kiem Lake, this walking street is spacious enough for many kinds of entertainment, such as: folk games, jogging, street music performance, portrait drawing, etc. Have a good time when walking around the lake and playing Vietnamese folk games in Hoan Kiem Walking Street!

51. Visiting Quang Ba flower market

Quang Ba night market is one of the most atmospheric market in Vietnam. This is a local and authentic experience when you travel to Hanoi. Quang Ba flower market has 2 sessions: from 2 a.m to 4 a.m and from 4 a.m to midday. Usually, the most lively part is from 2 a.m to 4 a.m. Though this market may be a little sensory assault, that is one of the most appealing parts of Vietnamese local markets.

Address: Au Co Street, Nhat Tan Ward, Tay Ho Ward

52. Visiting One Pillar Pagoda

One Pillar Pagoda is one of the 2 most iconic temples of Vietnam. Built in the Ly dynasty ,the temple resembles a lotus blossom, which is a symbol of purity in Buddhism. The temple is made of wood, situated on a single stone pillar, which makes its name. One Pillar Pagoda is a unique architectural symbol of Hanoi.

Address: Chua Mot Cot Street, Doi Can Ward, Ba Dinh District

53.Visiting Tran Quoc Pagoda

Tran Quoc Pagoda is one of the oldest Buddhist temples in Hanoi. Situated on a small island on West Lake, Hanoi, the pagoda is famous for its history and becomes the icon of Hanoi today. Not only a place of worship, Tran Quoc Pagoda also attracts visitors for its cultural background and symbolic architecture.

Address: Thanh Nien Street, Yen Phu Ward, Ba Dinh District

Opening hours: daily from 07:30 to 18:00

Entrance fee: free

Tel: (+84) 243 8293 869

54. Visiting Vong village

Vietnamese young green rice, or Com, is a rustic specialty of Vietnam, especially Hanoi. In Hanoi, Vong Village, which is located in Dich Vong Hau Ward, Cau Giay District, is the most well-known to produce this kind of super fresh treat. Vong Village includes 4 smaller villages: Vong Tien, Vong Hau, Vong So, Vong Trung but Com is only made in only 2 villages Vong So and Vong Hau. The best time to visit Vong Village is in the autumn which is the Com season.

55. Visiting Bac church

Cua Bac Church, which is built in 1932, is a lovely site for walking located under the shades of big trees in Phan Dinh Phung Street. The church’s architecture is a perfect combination of French and Vietnamese features. Today, besides St. Joseph’s Cathedral and Ham Long Church, Cua Bac is a major church of Hanoi.

Address: No. 56 Phan Dinh Phung Street, Quan Thanh Ward, Ba Dinh District

56. Exploring Hanoi Ceramic Mosaic Mural

If you are into exploring the artistic side of this city, Hanoi Ceramic Mosaic Mural should be on your bucket list of must-go places in Hanoi. After being continued to build for the Millennial Anniversary of Hanoi, This ceramic mosaic mural has an amazing length, zipping along Yen Phu major roadway and is listed in Guiness Book of World Record as the largest ceramic mosaic.

57. Experiencing Bao Son Heaven Park

Bao Son Heaven Park is the biggest park in the northern region of Vietnam. Besides the fact that it has a number of sea animals as well as rare species, this park offers many ways of entertainment which recall us of Vietnamese traditional cultures. Spend a day at Bao Son Heaven Park and you will find yourself totally relaxing.

Address: Km+200, Le Trong Tan Street, An Khanh Commune, Hoai Duc District

Opening hours: 08:00 – 17:00

58. Having a motorbike tour to Ba Vi National Park

Today, many young Hanoians travel to Ba Vi National Park on weekend to take their soul to the nature. In Ba Vi, you can climb the mountains, take photos, visit some famous sites, and even relax in beautiful and convenient villas. It is such a great experience to travel by motorbike from Hanoi to Ba Vi National Park due to its adventurous but exciting journey.

59. Taking a tour to Ha Long Bay from Hanoi

Halong Bay, which is situated 180 kilometers from Hanoi, is a scenic spot in Vietnam that you should not miss. As the increasing demand for traveling from Hanoi to Halong Bay, the traffic system has been upgraded in the recent years. Hence, there are available tours on any period of the year. There are different types of tour to Halong Bay from Hanoi: tour for family, tour for couple, tour for backpacker, etc. The price of each tour depends on the season you travel, different tour operators, and the means of transports.

Here are some highly-recommended to Halong Bay from Hanoi tour operators

Halong Bay Tours

Address: No. 72 Hang Trong Street, Hang Trong Ward, Hoan Kiem District

Tel: (+84) 243 577 2907

Email: info@halongbaytours.com
Opening hours: 08:00 – 17:00, Monday to Saturday

60. Taking a tour to Sapa from Hanoi

Sapa is one of the must-go destinations in the list of travelers in Vietnam for its beautiful landscapes and breathtaking views.

Check our guide about Sapa in here

Here are some highly-recommended to Sapa from Hanoi tour operators

Day Tours Hanoi

Address: No 1/160 Hao Nam Street, O Cho Dua Ward, Dong Da District

Tel: (+84) 243 759 3333

Sapa tour from Hanoi

Address: 2nd Floor, No 8 Ma May Street, Hang Buom Ward, Hoan Kiem District
Tel : (+84)2 4 3722 8767
Email : info@sapatoursfromhanoi.com

61.Taking a tour to Trang An from Hanoi

Trang An Eco-tourist site is situated in the area of 3 districts: Hoa Lu, Gia Vien and Nho Quan of Ninh Binh Province. It has become more and more popular in the tourist map for its stunning caves, as well as many tourist attractions such as Tran Temple and the limestone mountains and rivers. Trang An is easy to get to from Hanoi

Here are some highly-recommended to Trang An from Hanoi tour operators:

Day Tours Hanoi

Address: No 1/160 Hao Nam Street, O Cho Dua Ward, Dong Da District

Tel: (+84) 243 759 3333

Deluxe Vietnam Tours

Address: Suite 208, No. 4 Cong An Collective quarter, Da Sy Ward, Ha Dong District

Tel : (+84) 984 819 645 / (+84) 243 3119 887

Email: deluxevietnamtours@gmail.com

info@deluxevietnamtours.com

62. Taking a tour to Tam Coc from Hanoi

Tam Coc, which is located in Ninh Binh Province, about 90 kilometers far from Hanoi, has recently become one of the most famous tourist sites in Vietnam. Since the short distance from Hanoi to Tam Coc, there are more and more tours to Tam Coc from Hanoi

Here are some highly-recommended Tam Coc from Hanoi tour operators:

Tam Coc Tours

Address: No. 242H Minh Khai Street, Minh Khai Ward, Hai Ba Trung District
Tel: (+84) 934 282 001
Email: info@tamcoctours.com

63. Taking a tour to Mai Chau from Hanoi

Mai Chau is a remote mountainous town which is located in a rural valley whose towering cliffs, laid-back atmosphere, and unique culture attract visitors in the recent years of Hoa Binh Province.

Here are some highly-recommended to Mai Chau from Hanoi tour operators:

Khanh Sinh Tour

Address: No. 26 Lo Su Street, Ly Thai To Ward, Hoan Kiem District

Tel: 024.3926 2499/ 3926 1718

Email: info@khanhsinh.com

Day Tours Hanoi

Address: No 1/160 Hao Nam Street, O Cho Dua Ward, Dong Da District

Tel: (+84) 243 759 3333

64. Taking a tour to Cat Ba Island from Hanoi

Cat Ba Island, which is located in Hai Phong, has recently become one of the most ideal destination in the North Vietnam. Coming to Cat Ba Island, you will have the chance to explore its fantastic and untouched natural charms: the beautiful beach, gorgeous limestone pillars. Also, its diverse culture will definitely give you memorable experiences.

Check our guide about Cat Ba Island in here

Here are some highly-recommended to Cat Ba Island from Hanoi tour operators

Vietnam Package Tours Company – Madam Moon Travel Office

Address: No. 17 Hang Hanh Street, Hang Trong Ward, Hoan Kiem District

Opening hours: 06:00 – 23:30

Good Morning Cat Ba Vietnam Company

Address: No. 13 Hang Huong Lane, Hang Ma Ward, Hoan Kiem District

Tel: (+84) 243 2373 186

65. Taking a tour to Huong pagoda from Hanoi

Perfume Pagoda, or Chua Huong, is located at the center of a sacred site featuring a maze of main Buddhist temples built in the cliffs of Huong Tich. Every year, not only Buddhists but also travelers come to visit the Buddhism symbol of Vietnam to worship, as well as explore the distinct cultural features here. As the high demand of tourists, there are many tours from Hanoi to Perfume Pagoda for you to choose.

Here are some highly-recommended to Perfume Pagoda from Hanoi tour operators:

Day Tours Hanoi

Address: No 1/160 Hao Nam Street, O Cho Dua Ward, Dong Da District

Tel: (+84) 243 759 3333

The above are 65 best things to do in Hanoi, Vietnam, which will give you unforgettable experiences when traveling to Hanoi. It is a wonderful city waiting for your exploration. Hope that Hope you will have a memorable trip to Hanoi an interesting capital in Vietnam!