Things To Do
in Hanoi
Hanoi, Vietnam's capital, sits on the bank of the Red River and blends centuries of history with a buzzing modern sensibility. The Old Quarter hums with scooter traffic, street food aromas, and craft shops, while the tree-lined boulevards around Hoan Kiem Lake offer calm in the city’s center. Temples, colonial architecture, and a thriving arts scene give Hanoi a distinctive cultural pulse.
Visitors are drawn to its markets, lake views at dawn, and the sense that every corner has a story to tell.
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 |
|---|---|
| 🍜Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $3-6 |
| 🚖Taxi ride (short city center) | $2-5 |
| ☕Coffee | $1-3 |
| 🏨Budget hotel (per night) | $15-40 |
| 🛍️Market groceries (weekly) | $20-60 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich street food culture and historical sites
- Friendly locals and affordable prices
- Compact, walkable city center with lakeside scenery
- Chaotic traffic can be overwhelming
- Air quality and humidity can be challenging in summer
- Some areas are crowded and touristy in peak season
- "Xin chào" - Hello
- "Cảm ơn" - Thank you
- "Xin lỗi" - Sorry
- "Bao nhiêu tiền?" - How much is it?
- "Ở đâu?" - Where is it?
- "Tôi muốn đặt món" - I would like to order
- "Bạn có nói tiếng Anh không?" - Do you speak English?
- "Có thể thanh toán bằng thẻ không?" - Can I pay by card?
Places to Visit in Hanoi
Visit one of these nice places.
Tranquil water, soft light, and the Turtle Tower rising above mist—ideal for reflections and early-city atmosphere.
A historic railway bridge over the Red River; dramatic lines and urban textures, especially at dawn or dusk.
Gothic revival façade and spires; striking against the city skyline, especially in evening light.
Colonial-era architecture with ornate details; excellent for exterior shots and formal events.
Waterfront views, pagoda silhouettes, and golden sunsets along the tranquil lake.
Food in Hanoi
Hanoi Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A fragrant beef or chicken noodle soup featuring a clear, spiced broth, rice noodles, and fresh herbs.
Must-Try!
Grilled pork served with rice noodles, herbs, and a dipping sauce; iconic in the Old Quarter.
Crisp baguette sandwich with pâté, meats, pickled vegetables, herbs, and chili sauce.
Turmeric-dill marinated fish pan-fried at the table, served with vermicelli and peanuts.
Sticky rice with toppings like mung beans, peanuts, fried shallots, or savory proteins.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Historic market in the Old Quarter offering fresh produce, herbs, and ready-to-eat bites.
Nightly lanes near Ta Hien and Hang Bac bustle with vendors serving diverse Hanoi snacks.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Dress modestly when visiting religious sites and markets; shoulders and knees covered in temples.
Respect lines and orderly queues; avoid pushing in and be mindful of crowd dynamics.
Greet with a smile and a light handshake; for elders, address with appropriate titles and remove shoes when entering homes.
Safety
Tipping in Hanoi
Ensure a smooth experience
Tips are appreciated but not obligatory; round up taxis or leave small sums at nicer restaurants.
Cash in VND is widely accepted; many places accept cards in hotels and larger restaurants; mobile wallets (MoMo, Zalo Pay) are increasingly common.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Pleasant temperatures with blooming flowers; great for walking tours and street markets.
Hot and humid with frequent rain during the monsoon; stay hydrated and plan indoor or shaded activities mid-day.
Mild, comfortable weather and clearer skies; ideal for outdoor exploration and photography.
Cool to temperate days with occasional drizzle; dress in layers and enjoy indoor attractions and cafés.
Hanoi at Night
Hiking in Hanoi
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Forested hills with trails and waterfalls about 50 km west of Hanoi; popular for day hikes and cooler air.
Mountainous park north of Hanoi offering forest trails, viewpoints and cooler climate.
Airports
How to reach Hanoi by plane.
Main international gateway to Hanoi, about 28 miles (45 km) north of the city center; access to downtown by taxi, public bus (86), or airport shuttle.
Former civil airport used for domestic/general aviation; currently limited commercial flights and not a primary international hub.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority ethnic group forming the city’s cultural and linguistic core.
Diverse communities such as Tay, Nung, Dao, and others living in peri-urban districts and nearby provinces.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Widely played in parks and schools; pop-up matches are common on weekends.
Popular in community centers and clubs; casual courts available in many neighborhoods.
Common in local clubs and markets; many residents play casually with friends.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Hanoi.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Choose fresh vegetables, tofu, and mushrooms; request no fish sauce, shrimp paste, or meat stocks, and ask for vegetarian broth when ordering.