Things To Do
in Hanoi
Hanoi is the capital city of Vietnam, blending centuries-old architecture with dynamic modern development. Its streets pulse with motorbikes, street vendors, and the rich aromas of local cuisine. The city’s French colonial landmarks, ancient temples, and serene lakes offer a unique cultural tapestry.
Warm hospitality and affordable prices make Hanoi an unforgettable destination.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your adventure with a guided walking tour of the Old Quarter at dawn, where narrow streets awaken with the aroma of fresh pho. Watch street vendors craft banh mi and sticky rice while motorbikes buzz by in a lively dance. Admire colonial architecture and hidden temples tucked between bustling market stalls.
Savor a vermicelli bowl at a family-run eatery before exploring the Dong Xuan Market’s colorful corridors. Haggle for handicrafts, textiles and souvenirs from local artisans eager to share their stories. Pause at a hidden cafe to sample egg coffee in a serene courtyard away from the crowds.
Return to Ta Hien Street for a taste of Hanoi’s legendary bia hoi culture amid the buzz of backpackers and locals. Enjoy small plates of grilled meat and fresh herbs alongside ice-cold draft beer under strings of dangling lights. Listen for the distant echo of live street performances as night deepens.
Start with a stroll through the leafy boulevards of the French Quarter, marveling at neoclassical buildings and the Opera House’s ornate facade. Pause for croissants and espresso at a chic Parisian-style patisserie popular with expats. Photograph the elegant Lam Son Square before the mid-morning crowd arrives.
Explore the Presidential Palace grounds and the stilt house where Ho Chi Minh lived in simple surroundings. Wander through the lush Botanical Gardens on paths lined with exotic flora and decades-old trees. Visit the Ho Chi Minh Museum to gain deeper insight into Vietnam’s most iconic leader.
Dine at a riverside restaurant along the Red River, feasting on fresh catch while the water shimmers under lantern light. Take an evening cyclo ride past the grand colonial edifices, each facade illuminated against the night sky. End the night with a rooftop drink overlooking the city’s glittering skyline.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍜Bowl of pho | $1–2 |
| 🍺Bia hoi (draft beer) | $0.50–1 |
| 🚕Taxi start fare | $0.60 |
| ☕Cà phê sữa đá | $1–1.50 |
| 🏨Budget hotel | $20–30 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich history and architecture
- World-class street food at low cost
- Warm and welcoming locals
- Compact city center for exploring on foot
- Heavy motorbike traffic
- High humidity in summer
- Occasional air pollution
- Language barrier outside tourist areas
- "Xin chào" - Hello
- "Cảm ơn" - Thank you
- "Xin lỗi" - Excuse me/Sorry
- "Cho tôi ..." - Please give me ...
- "Bao nhiêu tiền?" - How much is it?
Places to Visit in Hanoi
Visit one of these nice places.
Historic French-built iron bridge with panoramic river views at sunrise.
Gothic façade and bustling square, especially photogenic at dusk.
Narrow alley where trains pass feet away from café seating.
Food in Hanoi
Hanoi Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Vietnam’s iconic beef noodle soup; best at Pho Gia Truyền, 49 Bat Dan Street.
Must-Try!
Grilled pork patties with rice noodles and herbs; try at Bun Cha Huong Lien.
French-style baguette sandwich filled with meats and pickles; famous at Banh Mi 25.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Try grilled corn, sugarcane juice, and banh trang nuong around Hoan Kiem Lake.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Always greet older people first and use both hands when giving gifts.
Take off shoes when entering homes or some small shops.
Keep voice levels down in temples and on public transport.
Avoid pointing with fingers; gesture with an open hand instead.
Safety
Tipping in Hanoi
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated; 5–10% in restaurants for good service.
Cash (Vietnamese dong) is king; credit cards accepted at upscale venues and many hotels.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
March–April brings mild weather and blooming flowers, ideal for outdoor exploration.
May–August is hot and humid with occasional downpours; carry water and an umbrella.
September–November is the most pleasant season with cool breezes and clear skies.
December–February can be chilly and drizzly; bring a light jacket.
Hanoi at Night
Hiking in Hanoi
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
75 km west of Hanoi; features jungle trails, peaks, and temples.
85 km north of the city; known for misty mountains and lush hiking routes.
Airports
How to reach Hanoi by plane.
Located 45 km north of the city center; airport shuttle buses and taxis available.
Secondary airport for domestic and some regional flights; 10 km east of Old Quarter.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Ethnic Vietnamese make up over 90% of the population.
Small communities of Tay, Muong, Dao live in surrounding provinces.
Growing groups of foreign residents working in education, IT, and NGOs.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Vietnamese league matches draw passionate local crowds.
Played in parks and courts throughout the city year-round.
Common in community centers and cafés as a casual pastime.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Hanoi.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many temples serve vegetarian meals; specify “chay” at eateries to get meat-free versions.
Rice-based dishes like pho and rice paper rolls are safe; avoid fried breads and soy sauce.