Best Things to Do in Hanoi: Explore the Heart of Vietnam

Hanoi, with its rich history and vibrant street life, offers the perfect mix of culture, adventure, and unforgettable experiences for any traveller. Hanoi’s charm is a perfect blend of old-world tranquillity and urban excitement. So with that, you might want to visit Hanoi and wonder what are the things to do in Hanoi. That said, this blog has got you covered.

Explore the Old Quarter

The Old Quarter is a must-visit in Hanoi. Its narrow streets, old temples, and colonial buildings showcase Hanoi’s rich history and vibrant presence in the city’s heart.

Top Attractions

Dong Xuan Market: The biggest and oldest market in Hanoi.
Ma May Ancient House: A classic, well-preserved ancient traditional house in the culture of Vietnam🏘️.
Bach Ma Temple: It is one of the ancient temples in Hoi An.

Cultural Experience

Cycle Ride: The traditional bicycle taxi with the tour inside the crowded streets.
Visit Traditional Craft Streets: Hang Bac located on Silver Street and Hang Ma located on Paper Street.

Where to Eat

Pho Bat Dan: They specialise in traditional pho.
Bun Cha Ta: Famous for Hanoi-style grilled pork and noodles.

Shopping Destinations

Dong Xuan Market: It has a marketplace for clothing, electronics, and souvenirs.
Hang Gai Street: Suitable for buying silk goods.

Best For: Trying the local cultures, trying street food, visiting old landmarks, and shopping for local goods in vibrant environments.

Hoan Kiem Lake

Located at the edge of the Old Quarter, Hoan Kiem Lake is surrounded by stunning scenery and rich local history and culture. The name “Hoan Kiem” actually means “Lake of the Returned Sword,” and there are plenty of local tales about this one. This is one of the best things to do in Hanoi, Vietnam. You can stroll around the lake early in the morning while the sun starts to rise or later when dusk approaches.

Top Attractions

Ngoc Son Temple: It is constructed on an island in the lake.
Huc Bridge: The bright red bridge going up to Ngoc Son Temple.
Turtle Tower: A sign of Hanoi situated on a minor islet.

Cultural Experience

Morning Tai Chi: Observe the residents doing exercises in the early morning hours.
Night Strolls: The lake is breathtaking at night.
Ngoc Son Temple: Learn more about the history and legends behind the lake.

Where To Eat

Cafe Dinh: Home to its traditional egg coffee and a great view of the lake.
Thuy Ta Restaurant: A lakeshore restaurant serving Vietnamese French cuisine, visiting this is among the best things to do in the French quarter of Hanoi.

Shopping Centres

Trang Tien Plaza: It is an expensive mall near the lake🤗 which has a lot of things to see.
Street Vendors: Local artists selling paintings, postcards, and souvenirs around the lake.

Best For: Enjoying beautiful scenery views, and experiencing local culture through a mix of tradition and modern leisure.

Sightseeing in the Temple of Literature

The Temple of Literature is merely beautiful traditional architecture and one of the oldest monuments in Hanoi. The moment you step into it, the peaceful atmosphere there will instantly remind you of scholarly pursuit, and respect for knowledge will make for an adventurous thing to do in Hanoi. Visiting the Temple of Literature ranks high among the top things to do in Hanoi.

Top Attractions

Five Courtyards: A different architecture and history.
Stelae of Doctors: 82 stone tablets bearing the names of successful scholars.
Confucius Temple: Dedicated to Confucius, a shrine, the symbol of respect for education.

Cultural Experiences

Enjoy Tet Celebrations: Live the traditional Vietnam New Year Festival.
Vietnamese Calligraphy: It is generally used in celebrations and holidays.

Where to Eat

La Badiane: It is almost a mix of French and Vietnamese cuisine.
Bun Cha Dac Kim: This place is known for barbecued pork noodles.

Shopping Places

Temple Gift Shop: The offerings include rolls of calligraphy and books.
Book Sellers: The booksellers outside the temple sell academic and cultural books.
Skilful Craft Markets: They would sell handcrafted educational tools and calligraphy.

Best For: People interested in learning and education, history enthusiasts, and those eager to know more about Vietnamese culture.

Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum

It is referred to as Independence Square. In the centre stands a mausoleum. That is where Ho Chi Minh declared independence of Vietnam from France in 1945. A visit to this region is among things to do in Hanoi, Vietnam, if one wishes to gain a deeper understanding of the country’s revolutionary history.

Chief Attractions

Grand Auditorium: The central hall of the Opera House and has special seating.
Ornate Facade: Highly attractive French colonial style inspired by Paris’ Palais Garnier.
Opera Plaza: Such a beautiful square to sit in and before entering the opera plaza.

Where To Go

The Press Club: It has a special Hanoi Contemporary Upscale dining.
Ly Club Hanoi: Elegance dining with both Vietnamese and international options.

Shopping Hubs

Trang Tien Plaza: A luxury shopping centre, standing alongside the Opera House.
Metropole Arcade: Luxury shops, boutiques, and galleries close to the hotel.

Best for: Lovers of art, music, and architecture seeking a refined cultural experience.

Watch a Water Puppet Show

This ancient water puppet art form had its origin in northern Vietnam’s rice paddies even before 1000 years ago. One of the top things to do in Hanoi, Vietnam, you’d look forward to making the most of your visit to such an enchanting city.

Top Attractions

Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre: The most famous place to experience this old art form.
Folk Tales of Vietnamese Folklore: Typical dramas include folk tales, village life, and folklore, such as the return of the magic sword.

Cultural Practices

Authentic Water Puppetry: It is a 1,000-year-old living art form born in the rice fields of Vietnam.
Folktale Narration: See Vietnamese legends and myths come to life in this slimy and puppetry context🥳.

Where to Dine

Bun Cha Huong Lien: Grilled pork on noodles. Good place. Near the old city.
Cha Ca Thang Long: Try the famous grilled fish of Hanoi.
Banh Mi: A wonderful place to go for classic Vietnamese sandwiches, not too far from the theatre.

Shopping Centres

Hang Gai Street: Silk goods and traditional dress shop near the theatre.
Weekend Night Market: A bustling place to go looking for some souvenirs on the street food within just a two-minute walk is one of the adventurous things to do in Hanoi.

Best For: Culture fans, families with kids, and travellers looking for unique Vietnamese performing arts.

Hanoi Opera House

Then, there is the Opera House in Hanoi for those interested in colonial history and architecture in the city. The French had built this fantastic opera house back in 1911. ‘ This fabulous opera house is another marvel of colonial architecture.

Top Attractions

French Colonial Architecture: A huge building based on the model of Paris Palais Garnier.
High-Class Performances: Periodical shows, which include ballet, opera, and classical concerts.
Guided Tours: They are available for whoever is willing to explore the beautiful interior, and historical values are the cheap things to do in Hanoi.

Cultural Experiences

Attend a Show: Experience traditional Vietnamese performances or international operas and ballets.
Architectural Wonder: This opera house is a veritable classic of the French Colonial style.

Where To Eat

Press Club: Nice restaurant place, a mix of European food and Vietnamese food at its best.
Pho Thin: A local secret to real Hanoi pho, a Vietnamese noodle soup, enjoyed by the locals.

Shop Lounges

Trang Tien Plaza: This is a luxurious shopping mall adjacent to the Opera House, selling international branded products.
Hang Bai Street: Clothing stores wide range from high-end boutiques to local brands are found here.

Best for: Perfect for culture, and architecture enthusiasts, who want an experience to be able to spend a night in the streets is one of the best things to do in Hanoi, Vietnam.

Visit the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology

The Vietnam Museum of Ethnology presents the 54 different ethnic groups found in Vietnam. This is one of the best places for visitors to closely observe life-size traditional clothing, utensils, and antiques. It is an amazing experience.

Tourist Attractions

A Beautiful Garden: Traditional houses of all ethnic groups reflect the way of life in the countryside.
Interactive Activities: Themed workshops and events where visitors involve themselves with traditional crafts and customs.

Activities to do in the Museum

Cultural Workshops: Demonstrative experiments, whether it is weaving or hand moulding of clay pottery, show the traditional crafts.
Guided Tours: Knowledgeable guides provide context and stories to enhance your understanding of the rich cultural tapestry of Vietnam.

Places to Visit

Museum Cafe: This local outlet with local food as well as refreshments, ideal for a quick break.😀
Com Vietnam: A local restaurant that serves authentic Vietnamese rice meals, and it’s also cosy.
Xoi Yen: Famous for sticky rice; a must-go should you want to indulge in some local flavours.

Walk Across Long Bien Bridge

Long Bien Bridge is one symbol that connects the city to its suburbs. It was built in the French colonial period and saw the reformation of the city. This interesting historical bridge is of much interest to photographers as well as historians.

Important Aspects of the Place

View: Panoramic view of the Red River, really apt for sunsets of beauty and hustle below from local life.
The War Bridge: It is an arterial of Vietnam during the Vietnam War, therefore, it holds nostalgia within its walls.

Things To Do

Sunrise Walks: This is a chance for early birds to spend a quiet time as the city comes alive.
Cycling Trails: For travelling up to the scenic routes along riverbanks, bicycle hire is available.

Places to Visit

Sample Some Traditional Food: Vietnamese coffee from vendors of the beverage selling their product on the bridge.
Cha Ca Thang Long: A Good fried fish restaurant.
Banh Mi Phuong: It is known for excellent baguette sandwiches, ideal for a mouthwatering snack in a hurry.

Best For: This place is best known for the long walk along nature with the community.

Tour the Imperial Citadel of Thang Long

This UNESCO World Heritage site symbolises Vietnamese history, covering the Ly and Tran dynasties, and is the Imperial Citadel of Thang Long. This historic complex doesn’t represent an old architecture site but testifies to resilience and cultural development in Vietnam.

Main Features

Historical Buildings: Ancient walls, gates, and palaces are mostly there, speaking of Vietnam’s imperial past.
Archaeological Finds: Identify artefacts and remains that could be developed to represent life in the dynastic period.
Flag Tower: Ascend to the top for breathtaking views of Hanoi and the surroundings of the citadel.

Cultural Information

Historical Reenactment Events: The past of the citadel should be relived through carrying the traditional costumes and practices.
Educational Tours: Visit by guided tour to understand the richness of history and culture associated with this place.
Local Festivals: Festival events hosted in the citadel, presenting Vietnam’s local culture and strong grassroots spirit.

Places to Visit

Cafe Lam: This cosy cafe serves real traditional Vietnamese iced coffee.
Bun Cha Ta: A local place with authentic bun cha hot tips that are not to miss.
Dine in the Citadel: Some of the cafes on the ground floor offer local dishes. So you could have a historically flavoured meal here.🌭

St. Joseph’s Cathedral

St. Joseph’s Cathedral is one of the most magnificent churches in Vietnam; it’s a quintessence of neo-Gothic architecture. Built during the tail end of the 1800s, this spot is one of the city’s great tourist attractions as well as its religious and cultural icon.

Architectural Features

Gothic Facade: Highest spires with elaborate and ornate stained glass window façade showing European influences.
Interior Design: The interior houses wooden altars and is decorated peacefully.
The Cultural Hub: Therefore, in general, a cathedral is a place of events and other related community activities; hence, forms a culture.

Things To Do

Mass Services: Go on a Sunday to a lively, traditional local Catholic service.
Photography: It captures the intricate beauty of the cathedral, particularly during the golden hour when you are capturing photos.
Local Events: Taking part in seasonal festivity and cultural events that are conducted on the church grounds.

Places to Go

Maison De Tet Decor Chic: They serve the best of both new and old Vietnamese dishes.
The Hanoi Social Club: An International Cuisine Spot is a modern cafe with a relaxed atmosphere.
More Visitors’ Reviews: “To see the cathedral, a must-visit place to drink one of the local coffees,” Cafe Pho Co.

Take a Cooking Class

Learning how to cook a traditional meal in Hanoi is one more immersion into Vietnam’s culinary heritage.

What Is So Special There?

Market Tours: Give a visit to the local markets to gather raw materials for cooking.
Hands-On Cooking: Learn how to prepare dishes like pho, spring rolls, and banh xeo with expert guidance.
Cultural Context: The teachers also provide the background or history behind each dish, which makes it more captivating to learn.

Things To Do

Know About Herbs: Use local ingredients to tie fresh herbs and spices to the character of Vietnamese food.
Learn Culinary Traditions: Learned rituals and traditions involving Vietnamese food and developed an appreciation for that culture.
Eating Together: Enjoy what you cooked. Shone it at the table with others. A bond with fellow attendees builds.

Places to Visit

Bun Cha Huong Lien: Notorious for its bun cha, this place is both locals and tourists’ favourite.
Cha Ca Thang: Famous for Hanoi dish of firm white fish marinated in turmeric cooked table side with dill.
Xoi Yen: It is a special favourite among the locals to prepare delicious fast food and sticky rice dishes.

Best For: Hanoi is best for its traditional as well as modern cooking skills that are world-class; you can learn them there.

Hanoi Train Street

Hanoi Train Street is one of those quirky attractions to visit if local culture is one’s thing, being a unique and bustling locality wherein trains will pass through narrow residential streets for great glimpses of everyday city life.

Unique Features

Training Observations: Watch trains pass at just inches distance from houses, which is a great thrill for tourists.
Local Life: Children would be seen playing along the railway lines, and snacks would be sold on roadside stalls.
Picture Views: You can take quite lovely photographs of the train against the background of busy street life/🚸

What to Do There

Community Interactions: Interact with friendly locals who remain very candid about telling their stories about life alongside the tracks.
Tasting Street Food: Enjoy the local delicacies sold by vendors, who often have their shops right near the train route.
Photographic Opportunities: Great for photographers who want to capture this weird fusion of rail culture with life in the city.

Places to Visit

Cafe Giang: Popular for its egg coffee; it’s an experience when visiting the region.
Incredible Banh Mi Sandwich: The place that is just wonderful to grab a quick snack on the go.
Street Food Stalls: Sample the local favourites at various food stalls among and alongside the tracks, each variety with its preferred flavour.

Best For: This place is best as the same train street. While walking in the street, you can find trains passing nearby.

Hoa Lo Prison Museum

Known popularly as the “Hanoi Hilton,” the Hoa Lo Prison Museum is somewhat a poignant reminder of the tumultuous history of Vietnam. Founded by the French towards the end of the 19th century as a prison for political dissidents during the colonial period.

Main Attractions

Historical Expositions: See these wide expositions that deliver historical information concerning prison life and many important inmates.
Authentic Architecture: The original cells and buildings themselves depict the nightmare past of the place.
Memorabilia and Relics: Personal interest items, photographs, or artefacts that demonstrate the history of those who suffered here.

Things to Do

Guided Tours: Knowledgeable guides have enriched information about tragic histories.
Engaging Exhibitions: The installations provide a deep understanding of how the prison impacts Vietnamese culture.
Reflection Rooms: Quiet rooms help students reflect on the battles for freedom and fairness.

Places to Visit

Cha Ca La Vong: Fish is grilled before your very eyes at your table in this true Hanoi eatery.
Cafe Giang: Traditional made egg coffee is well worth the try.

Best For: History enthusiasts and aficionados who can be interested in Vietnam’s fight for independence.

Quan Thanh Temple

Quan Thanh Temple is one of the four sacred temples of Hanoi. It is located on the west side of West Lake. It was built up as a city protector through Tran Vu. It has wooden, beautifully carved structures and exquisite statues that make it culturally important.

Main Attractions

Architectural Marvel: It has an architecture of wood carvings and more about traditional Vietnamese designs.🏦
Peaceful Gardens: Surrounding gardens provide a calming atmosphere for reflection.
Sacred Relics: The mighty temple has had a colossal statue of Tran Vu for centuries.

Things You Can Do

Offerings and Prayers: Witness people doing their old ways of rituals, burning incense, and praying to God.
Festivals: Its annual festivals attract devotees from all parts of the region.
Cultural Rituals: Discover Vietnam’s rich spiritual heritage through indigenous rites.

Places To Visit

Green Tangerine: A hybrid restaurant with a rather strange combination of Vietnamese and French; close.
Hang Ngon: is the most-touted foodie destination in Hanoi that serves a broad range of authentic Vietnamese dishes.

Best For: Those who are looking for spiritual harmony, a peaceful environment, and a flavour of the historic past of Hanoi, blending cultures with nature.

Dong Xuan Market

The Dong Xuan Market is indeed the biggest marketplace in Hanoi. It is an activity complex offering quite a considerable variety of goods, from fresh produce and clothing to souvenirs. It represents the importance of an everyday place for thousands of people. It personifies the life of Hanoi through its colourful stores and lively atmosphere.

What’s Special

Unique Accessories: Their products range very widely, from fresh fruits and vegetables to even textiles and handicrafts.
Street Food Stalls: Try street foods, for example, Pho, Banh Xeo, and spring rolls.

Nearby Tourist Attraction

Street Foods: Try authentic Vietnamese food at many food stalls along the way through the market.
Local Specialities: Explore regional specialities that reflect the diversity of Vietnamese cuisine.

Best for: Perfect for foodies and shoppers alike, this market can give one a true taste of Hanoi’s vibrant culture and culinary delights.

Visit West Lake (Ho Tay)

West Lake, or Ho Tay, is the largest freshwater lake in Hanoi. It shows quiet beauty. The shore, strewn with gardens, temples, and small cafes, is an inspiration for the peaceful pleasures of promenades, bicycle driving, or just sitting amidst the waters.

Top Attractions

Panoramic Views: Splendid sunsets and colour play on the lake, like a kaleidoscope, all day long.
Historical Temples: Visit nearby temples such as Tran Quoc and Quan Thanh, both full of history.
Waterfront Activities: Participate in events like paddle boating or cycling along the circumference of the lake.

Things To Do

Leisures on Foot: The riverside promenade offers a perfect walking, jogging, or biking path.
Photographs: Scenic views offer excellent opportunities for sublime photographs.

Best For: Best suited for nature lovers and those who are looking for a peaceful retreat with the beauty of nature.

Bike or Walk Around Hanoi

The most fun experience of Hanoi’s culture and history is to walk or cycle through its streets. This city is vibrant and full of life, where streets are full of culture, historic landmarks, and markets that will lead you down tiny roads. Discovering niche sites that would never be seen from a car is a fun thing to do in Hanoi.

What’s Special

Historic Roads: Enjoy charming streets dotted with colonial monuments and ancient temples.
Street Art: Scan out some dynamite murals or street installations throughout the city.

Things to Do

Guided Bike Tours: Join guided by locals who share stories and insights on the history and culture of Hanoi.
Walking Tours: Come and join the historical and architectural-themed walking tours.

Where to Eat

Vegan Restaurant: Lively restaurant focused on healthy options for the entire family near Old Quarter.
Pho Bat Dan: Renowned for its authentic pho, it is a must-try while on your walking journey.

Best for: This place is considered to be the best to have your morning or evening walk.

Vietnam Military History Museum

The Vietnam Military History Museum holds an oddly peculiar appeal to anyone interested in knowledge of the military history of the country. That is, the museum offers wide, vast exhibits, artefacts, and personal stories, giving one an all-around view of Vietnam’s wars, particularly the Vietnam War.

Places To Visit

Historic Exhibits: Help see military equipment, arms, and artefacts from past wars.
Personal Stories: Hear the stories of veterans and civilians that give the exhibits emotion.
Famous Aircraft: All military aircraft and helicopters are placed on the grounds of the museum.

What’s Special

Guided Tours: Trained guides would explain the context and historical perspectives of every exhibit.
Art Installations: Find artistic impressions of war and peace, representing the resilience of Vietnam.

Best for: History enthusiasts or for someone who wants to have a firsthand impression of the wars that followed Vietnam in military movements.

Bat Trang Ceramic Village

Bat Trang is an old craft village that has existed for many years outside Hanoi, and it’s famous for its quality ceramic artistry. Here, one can see beautiful ceramics, artists at work, and even a place where visitors can try their hand at making ceramics.🎨

Things To Do

Hands-on Workshop: Things to do in Hanoi evening is to take a pottery class and make your piece.
Ceramic Museum: Learn about the history and development of Bat Trang ceramics.

Cultural Activity

Visit Artisan Homes: See family workshops where generations have learnt the pottery-making craft.
Art of Glazing: Things to do in Hanoi evening are learning how to glaze and fire ceramics in detail.

Best For: It is an excellent place for art and craft enthusiasts to go and explore traditional Vietnamese craft.

Did You Know? Bát Tràng Pottery Village, over 500 years old, produces some of the finest ceramics in Vietnam. Each item is handcrafted and painted with intricate designs that have been passed down through generations.

Day Trip to Perfume Pagoda

Perfume Pagoda is bound to be a fantastic pilgrim site, which one can also access just outside of Hanoi, amidst mountains and rivers. A daylong trip here includes a boat ride, some hiking, and visiting the temples of the Buddha.

Top Places To Visit

Boat Tour To Yen Stream: The trip begins with a leisurely boat ride along serene waters under limestone cliffs.
Huong Tich Cave: Visit the cave Pagoda, which is considered a spiritual site.
Thien Tru Pagoda: It is an old temple with beautiful architectural design.

Things To Do

Walking Pilgrim: You will see them and follow them to the religious site, prayer, and development of spiritual connection among people.
Meditation and Serenity: Sit in silence to meditate at one of the many temples.
Festivals: Discover lively local traditions at the Perfume Pagoda Festival.

Best For: Suitable for nature lovers and those in search of a soul retreat or meditation.

Walk Around Ba Dinh Square

Politically and historically, Ba Dinh Square is the heart of Hanoi. Indeed, it is here that President Ho Chi Minh proclaimed the Declaration of Independence in 1945. Walking around this place gives one a good view of Vietnam’s rich history and pride.

Must Visit Places

One Pillar Pagoda: Historical landmark of Vietnam, a symbol of Buddhism and peace.
Presidential Palace: A monumental structure by colonial architecture, decorated with gardens.

What’s Special

National Significance: This is a historical site that exemplifies Vietnam’s path to freedom.
Learn About Ho Chi Minh: Visit museums of the city, which will follow his life.

Best For: For history lovers and those attached to Vietnam’s struggle toward independence and revolution.

Visit the One Pillar Pagoda

The most famous landmark in Vietnam is the One Pillar Pagoda, which presently symbolises Hanoi. The miniaturised pagoda in a large, single-stone pillar represents the arrival of a lotus from a pond.

Architectural Wonders

Unique Form: Appreciate the pagoda’s symbolic form as a blooming lotus flower.
Beautiful Surroundings: Walk around the serene pond, reflecting the beauty of the pagoda.
Cultural Symbolism: Understand what the pagoda symbolises about purity in Buddhism.

Things To Do

Buddhist Philosophy: Discuss the significance of the lotus in Vietnamese Buddhism.
Blessings by Resident Monks: There are blessings by the monastics during your stay.

Best For: Architecture and spiritual enthusiasts interested in discovering Vietnam’s Buddhist culture.

Eat Pho at a Local Restaurant

Taste a bowl of the traditional Vietnamese pho. No visit to Hanoi would be complete without it. Flavourful noodle soup, savoured by both locals and visitors, is the symbol of Vietnamese cuisine and culture.

Pho Must Try Places

Pho Thin: Offers quite good pho in one of the oldest and most traditional pho restaurants in Hanoi.
Pho Gia Truyen: A kind of local flavour, authentic pho in bare surroundings.

Things To Try

How To Make Pho: Learn the subtle preparation from slow-cooked broth to fresh herbs. The end.
Cultural Significance: Look at how pho has become an iconic Vietnamese food.
Suitable For: Foodies and food enthusiasts would love authentic Vietnamese flavours.

Best For: This place is best for pho, which is a traditional dish that is slow-cooked for a long time.

Explore the Hanoi Ceramic Mosaic Mural

The Mosaic Stretch of 6 kilometres running through the streets of Hanoi is claimed to be the longest ceramic mosaic in the world. It has colourful landscapes depicting Vietnam’s glorious past and culture, which were portrayed in this mosaic.

What Is It Special For?

Colourful Murals: Marvel at the mosaic art of cultural heritage in Vietnam Intricate and colourful.
Record Breaking Length: Walk along the mural, a Guinness World Record Holder.

Places To Visit

Explore the Making: How ceramic tiles are made and how they were used to form this megastructure.
Cultural Heritage: Recognise and appreciate how the mural reflects Vietnamese cultural heritage.
Suitable For: All art and photography enthusiasts looking for a distinctive visual expression of Vietnam’s cultural heritage🗼.

Best For: This place is well known for its artistic values, and it is one of the famous tourist places in the country.

Visit the Museum of Fine Arts.

The Vietnam Fine Arts Museum has rich stocks of the country’s fine arts, ranging from antique sculptures to modern paintings. On the other hand, the visitors are presented in full with the art development of the country.

Things To Do

Ancient Sculptures: Find the oldest artefacts, including sculptures from Vietnamese dynasties.
Lacquer Paintings: View a classic Viennese lacquer art with deep colours and texture.

What’s Special There?

Vietnamese Art through Time: An Insight into the Historic and Cultural Development of Vietnamese Art.
Guided Tours: Do the guided tours to get a clear understanding of each piece of art.
Temporary Exhibitions: Discover in-process exhibitions of local artists and some international artists.

Best For: Art lovers and history enthusiasts looking to discover Vietnam’s artistic history.

Hanoi Nightlife

The nightlife in Hanoi is far from dull, with modern bars, fresh Bia Hoi beer stalls, and live music venues. Yet Hanoi does not only just skid from the busiest night streets up to quiet cocktail bars.

What’s Special There?

Ta Hien Street: The “Beer Street,” where one can go to enjoy the local beer and street food.
Sky Bars: There’s an outdoor rooftop bar with city views of Hanoi.

Things To Do

Bia Hoi Experience: Fresh beer is served from a street stall coming from a local place thriving and lively.
Night Markets: Walk through Hanoi at nighttime for some midnight shopping and street food.

Best For: Night owls looking for some of the lively entertainment options that Hanoi has in store for them.

Street Food Tour

The best way to sample the diverse culinary delights of the city is a street food tour in Hanoi. It has everything from bun cha to banh mi; all the flavours can be remembered on the streets of Hanoi.

Places To Visit

Bun Cha: Simple grilled pork served with noodles, a speciality of old Hanoi.
Ban Hi: A Vietnamese baguette sandwich stuffed with a variety of stuffings.
Egg Coffee Place: Taste the legend of Hanoi coffee, whipped in egg yolks is one of the good things to do in Hanoi city.

Things To Eat

Street Vendors Meet: Getting to Know Street Vendors and the Stories Behind the Street Food.
Eat From The Street: Learn the local customs of eating out on the streets.
Flavours of Hanoi: Discover how street food in Vietnam reflects this city’s rich history and culture.

Best For: Foodies wanting to try authentic street food at the heart of Hanoi.

Walk through Lenin Park

Lenin Park is a peaceful green oasis in the middle of Hanoi, creating some haven away from the otherwise frenetic pace of town. Certainly, it has been a place for many locals to come and exercise, relax, and socialise.

Places To Visit

Lenin Statue: Determine the political history of Hanoi by looking at the statue of Lenin.
Serene Lake: Stroll along the lake, one of the favourite jogging and family areas.
Flora Gardens: A gorgeous, serene, and well-intended garden for a quiet afternoon is one of the free things to do in Hanoi.⛲

Things To Do

Tai Chi in the Morning: Practice Tai Chi with locals in a serene park ambience.
Picnics and Parties: Take food and enjoy it with the family and friends in this quiet environment.
Cycling Trails: Bike on hire to discover the scenic trails is also a free thing to do in Hanoi.

Best For: Nature lovers and relaxation seekers in a peaceful outdoor setting.

Visit the Presidential Palace

The Presidential Palace is a very big building that consists of a set amidst amazing gardens and has a long dating history that can be seen to the colonial times in Hanoi and the things to do in the French quarter of Hanoi. It was created for the French Governor General, but today it is for the Vietnamese presidency.

What’s Special

Colonial Splendour: The lovely French colonial architecture is one of a kind to view.
Visit the Ornate Palace’s Lush Garden: This place is considered the heaven of Hanoi.
Ho Chi Minh’s Stilt House: One of the oldest and simplest houses in Ho Chi Minh.

Things To Do

Guided Tours: So having a tour is the best way to hear stories of Ho Chi Minh’s life.
Vietnam Road to Independence: The history of Vietnam is reflected in this palace.

Best For: History and building, and people interested in learning about Vietnam’s administration and the country’s history can visit.

Explore Local Cafes

The culture of cafes in Hanoi is quite diverse, from traditional Vietnamese coffee to modern international flair cafes. Every city local cafe is a revealing window into the relaxed, creative ambience of the city.

Places To Visit

Visit the Egg Coffee at Cafe Giang: This is a famous egg in the speciality of Hanoi, prepared with whipped egg yolks.
Cong Cafe: Go there for the quirky chain sporting vintage wartime decoration and a very relaxed atmosphere, making it one of the unique things to do in Hanoi city.

What’s So Special?

Vietnamese Coffee: It is made by extracting the beans from the robusta plant.
Cafe Society: Take in the artwork displayed at the lively café located within the Hanoi society.
Drinks: Try some of Hanoi’s specialty coffee brews, such as Coconut Coffee; it’s a delightful activity to partake in.

Best For: Coffee seekers have a quiet spot to relax and enjoy that all-time famous Hanoi Cafe culture.

Conclusion

Hanoi offers a rich blend of history, culture, and culinary delights, making it a must-visit destination in Vietnam, as these are the cool things to do in Hanoi. From exploring ancient temples to enjoying different types of street food, there is something for every traveller in this dynamic city.

Frequently Asked Questions About Places to Visit in Hanoi

What is the best time to visit Hanoi?

The best time a person can go to Hanoi is during October when it is cold, which will make your journey and your time in the rich environment a special one.

How many days do I need to explore Hanoi?

You will have to stay there for around 3 to 5 days. It will be sufficient for you to go through all the places that are mentioned above, but you have to plan your trip ahead.

What are the must try foods in Hanoi?

Must-try foods include Pho, Bun Cha, and egg coffee, which is a traditional delicacy in Hanoi. People from all over the world visit the place to taste authentic Hanoi.

Is Hanoi safe for tourists?

Yes, Hanoi is generally safe for tourists, with some standard precautions. And it is one of the safest places for travellers.

Can I explore Hanoi on foot?

Yes, Hanoi’s Old Quarter and main attractions are easily walkable. Yes, but in case you are old, you will need to have some alternative available there.

Are English-speaking guides available in Hanoi?

Yes, many tours and attractions offer English-speaking guides in Hanoi. This makes it simple for people who don’t speak Vietnamese to have a good trip.