77 Best Things to Do in Hanoi

Witness the thrilling spectacle of a train passing mere inches from buildings and people. This unique experience offers a glimpse into daily life along the railway.

Tip: Check the train schedule beforehand to avoid disappointment and be ready with your camera.

Get lost in the maze of 36 streets, each historically dedicated to a specific trade. It's the vibrant heart of Hanoi, buzzing with activity, shops, and street food.

Tip: Explore on foot, especially on weekends when parts of it become pedestrian-only.

Pay respects at the final resting place of Vietnam's revered leader. The complex also includes his stilt house and the Presidential Palace.

Tip: Dress respectfully (shoulders and knees covered) and check opening hours as it's closed for periods each year.

Step back in time at Vietnam's first national university, a beautiful example of traditional Vietnamese architecture and a peaceful escape.

Tip: Consider the night tour for a unique, illuminated experience with cultural activities.

Gain insight into Vietnam's diverse ethnic groups through fascinating exhibits and an impressive outdoor display of traditional houses.

Tip: Allocate at least half a day to fully appreciate the indoor and outdoor exhibits.

Enjoy a leisurely walk around this picturesque lake in the heart of Hanoi, a popular spot for locals and tourists alike, especially in the early morning.

Tip: Visit on weekends when the surrounding area becomes a pedestrian zone with street performers and vendors.

Located on a small island in Hoan Kiem Lake, this historic temple is accessed by the iconic Huc Bridge and offers a serene cultural experience.

Tip: Go early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy the peaceful ambiance.

Be captivated by this traditional Vietnamese art form where puppets dance on water, telling folk tales and legends with live music accompaniment.

Tip: Book tickets in advance, especially during peak season, to secure good seats.

Discover a UNESCO World Heritage site that was the political center of the country for over 13 centuries, offering a deep dive into Vietnam's history.

Tip: Wear comfortable shoes as there's a lot of ground to cover within the complex.

Admire the stunning Neo-Gothic architecture of this late 19th-century Roman Catholic cathedral, a striking landmark in the city center.

Tip: Check mass times if you wish to attend a service or simply admire the interior.

Visit Hanoi's oldest Buddhist temple, beautifully situated on a small island in West Lake, offering a peaceful spiritual retreat.

Tip: Combine your visit with a stroll around West Lake for a complete experience.

Learn to prepare authentic Vietnamese dishes, from fresh spring rolls to flavorful pho, and enjoy the fruits of your labor.

Tip: Many classes include a market tour, giving you a chance to learn about local ingredients.

Immerse yourself in Hanoi's vibrant coffee scene, from traditional egg coffee to unique themed cafes with stunning city views.

Tip: Don't miss trying the famous egg coffee, a Hanoi specialty.

Dive into the largest indoor market in Hanoi, a bustling hub for everything from fresh produce and clothing to souvenirs and local snacks.

Tip: Be prepared to haggle for the best prices, especially for non-food items.

Experience a unique perspective of Hanoi by walking across this historic railway bridge, offering panoramic views of the Red River and the city.

Tip: Best experienced at sunrise or sunset for stunning light and fewer crowds.

Learn about Vietnam's turbulent history at this former prison, known as the 'Hanoi Hilton' by American POWs, offering a sobering look at wartime experiences.

Tip: The exhibits can be intense; prepare for a moving and educational visit.

Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Hanoi's weekend night market, where you can find a wide array of goods, street food, and lively entertainment.

Tip: Go with an open mind and be ready to haggle for souvenirs.

Savor this iconic Hanoi dish of grilled pork patties and noodles, often enjoyed with fresh herbs and a flavorful dipping sauce.

Tip: Best enjoyed for lunch, as many places specialize in this midday meal.

Immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere of this popular street, known for its affordable 'bia hoi' (fresh beer) and bustling nightlife.

Tip: It's a great place to mingle with locals and other travelers.

Admire the French colonial architecture of this grand opera house, a beautiful landmark that hosts various performances.

Tip: Check the schedule for performances if you're interested in attending a show.

Discover the largest freshwater lake in Hanoi, offering a more relaxed atmosphere with scenic views, pagodas, and charming cafes.

Tip: Consider renting a bicycle to explore the lake's perimeter.

Indulge in Hanoi's unique specialty: a rich, creamy coffee topped with a frothy, sweet egg yolk mixture.

Tip: Cafe Giang is considered the birthplace of egg coffee, but many other cafes offer it too.

Gain a deeper understanding of the vital role women have played in Vietnamese history and society through compelling exhibits.

Tip: It's located near Hoan Kiem Lake, making it easy to combine with other nearby attractions.

Experience a unique recreational area along the Red River, known for its green spaces, cafes, and the thrilling rainbow slide.

Tip: There's an entrance fee and a separate fee for the slides.

Get hands-on with traditional Vietnamese pottery making in the Old Quarter, creating your own unique souvenir.

Tip: Look for workshops that offer authentic Bat Trang pottery experiences.

Enjoy a coffee at this unique cafe that features a small, picturesque lake, offering a quirky and relaxing atmosphere.

Tip: It's a good spot for a break from the city's hustle and bustle.

Discover a themed entertainment complex designed to resemble Venice, offering a unique visual experience with canals and architecture.

Tip: It's a bit outside the city center, so plan your transportation accordingly.

See Hanoi's landmarks from a different perspective on a double-decker bus tour, offering a convenient way to get an overview of the city.

Tip: The evening tour provides a great way to see the city lights.

Experience a venue known for its live music, exhibitions, and community events, offering a taste of Hanoi's local arts scene.

Tip: Check their social media for event schedules.

Experience the lifeblood of the region by exploring the areas along the Red River, offering a glimpse into rural and riverside communities.

Tip: Consider a boat trip for a unique perspective of the river and its surroundings.

Savor a bowl of Bun Rieu, a flavorful crab noodle soup that's a popular and delicious local dish.

Tip: Look for busy street-side eateries with local patrons for the most authentic experience.

Enjoy delicate steamed rice rolls filled with minced pork and mushrooms, served with a savory dipping sauce.

Tip: Often enjoyed for breakfast or as a light meal.

Experience the local evening ambiance by visiting a park, where families and couples gather for activities like kite flying and socializing.

Tip: It's a great way to observe everyday Vietnamese life and find joy in simple moments.

Venture into less-touristed neighborhoods like Cau Giay to experience a more authentic, local side of Hanoi with hidden alleys to explore.

Tip: This area offers a glimpse into daily life away from the main tourist hubs.

Discover the Ba Dinh district, known for its historical significance and local charm, offering a more authentic Vietnamese experience.

Tip: It's a great area to wander and discover hidden gems away from the typical tourist path.

Wander through the Dong Da district, a densely populated area with numerous small alleys, perfect for getting lost and discovering local life.

Tip: Embrace the opportunity to explore the less-trodden paths.

Experience the local vibe in Thanh Xuan district, a residential area with fewer expats, offering a genuine glimpse into Hanoi life.

Tip: This district provides an opportunity to see Hanoi beyond the tourist facade.

Explore this significant spiritual site on the eastern side of West Lake, a beautiful temple complex dedicated to a Vietnamese goddess.

Tip: Combine with a walk around West Lake and try the local shrimp cakes nearby.

Savor the crispy, savory shrimp cakes, a popular local snack often found near attractions like Phu Tay Ho.

Tip: A perfect accompaniment to a beer while enjoying the lakeside atmosphere.

Enjoy a beer by Turtle Lake, a small, charming spot often frequented by locals, offering a relaxed setting.

Tip: A nice place to unwind after exploring the nearby attractions.

Catch an 'art movie' screening on Sundays at The Bottle Shop, a unique cultural experience for film enthusiasts.

Tip: Check their Facebook page for the latest event details and movie schedules.

Immerse yourself in Hanoi's underground music scene at Savage, a venue known for its electronic music and vibrant parties.

Tip: Check their social media for upcoming DJ sets and events.

Discover Unmute, a venue that hosts concerts and exhibitions, contributing to Hanoi's dynamic arts and culture scene.

Tip: Follow their social media for updates on events and performances.

Enjoy incredibly cheap and fresh draft beer ('bia hoi') at local establishments, a quintessential Hanoi experience.

Tip: It's a great way to socialize with locals and experience authentic Hanoi nightlife.

Spend a relaxed afternoon at the Hanoi Zoo, a green space offering a break from the city's intensity.

Tip: It's a good option for families or those looking for a more laid-back activity.

Visit these themed parks known for their unique, colorful architecture that resembles something out of a cartoon.

Tip: Best visited in the evening for a fun, albeit quirky, experience.

Take a pleasant walk along the eastern shores of West Lake, enjoying the views and the more relaxed atmosphere.

Tip: This area is known for its beautiful coffee shops.

Savor Chao Suon, a comforting and flavorful rice porridge with pork ribs, a popular local dish.

Tip: A great option for a warming and satisfying meal.

Experience Lau Ech, a unique frog hot pot dish, for an adventurous culinary exploration.

Tip: This is for those looking to try something beyond the usual Vietnamese fare.

Admire the French colonial architecture of this grand opera house, a beautiful landmark that hosts various performances.

Tip: Check the schedule for performances if you're interested in attending a show.

Wander through the Tay Ho district, known for its beautiful coffee shops and pleasant lakeside atmosphere.

Tip: It's a great area to explore at your own pace, discovering charming spots.

Enjoy a refreshing and flavorful beef jerky salad, a popular street food snack in Hanoi.

Tip: A great option for a light and tasty bite while exploring.

Sample Bun Dau Mam Tom, a dish featuring fried tofu, rice noodles, and fermented shrimp paste, for an authentic taste of Hanoi.

Tip: The fermented shrimp paste has a strong flavor, so it's an acquired taste for some.

Enjoy panoramic views of Hanoi from a rooftop bar, offering a sophisticated way to experience the city's skyline.

Tip: Ideal for sunset drinks or a nightcap with a view.

Discover the western part of the Old Quarter, known for its authentic street food and local eateries.

Tip: Look for places with a crowd of locals for the best culinary experiences.

Experience a captivating night show at the Thang Long Imperial Citadel, blending history with light and sound.

Tip: A unique way to engage with the citadel's history after dark.

Enjoy live music every night at Purple Blues Bar, a cozy spot in the Old Quarter with good cocktails and a friendly atmosphere.

Tip: They also have a billiard table for some after-music fun.

Venture to a 'bia hoi' spot across town for a truly local and affordable beer experience.

Tip: Grab a Grab (ride-hailing app) to easily reach different bia hoi locations.

Experience the tranquility of Hoan Kiem Lake in the early morning, a peaceful time for people-watching before the city fully awakens.

Tip: Grab a coffee and a Banh Mi to enjoy while taking in the serene atmosphere.

Explore the charming French Quarter, characterized by its colonial architecture, wide boulevards, and elegant buildings.

Tip: It's a pleasant area for a leisurely stroll and photography.

Discover the vibrant atmosphere and diverse street food offerings at Nghia Tan Market, a popular spot for locals.

Tip: A great place to sample a variety of authentic Vietnamese snacks and dishes.

Immerse yourself in the local culinary scene at Thanh Cong Market, known for its array of street food options.

Tip: Perfect for trying different local delicacies in a bustling environment.

Step into a whimsical world at Gia Mua Coffee, a unique cafe with hobbit-inspired decor that offers a charming escape.

Tip: A must-visit for those seeking quirky and enchanting cafe experiences.

Sip your coffee surrounded by koi fish at Rock King Coffee, a truly one-of-a-kind cafe experience.

Tip: Offers a serene and visually interesting environment to enjoy your drink.

Experience the fun at Cold Bear Cafe, where you order via screen and a bear paw serves your coffee, making for a humorous visit.

Tip: A lighthearted and entertaining spot for coffee lovers.

Savor Xoi Yen, a popular Hanoi dish of sticky rice served with various toppings, offering a hearty and flavorful meal.

Tip: Often enjoyed for breakfast or as a filling snack.

Experience pure fun and adrenaline on the rainbow slide at Bai Da Song Hong, a recreational area along the Red River.

Tip: There's an entrance fee and a separate fee for using the slides.

Discover a 'little Korea' in Hanoi in the My Dinh Song Da area, known for its Korean food and desserts.

Tip: A great option for those craving Korean cuisine.

Embrace the charm of Hanoi's Old Quarter by simply wandering its streets without a specific plan, allowing for spontaneous discoveries.

Tip: This approach often leads to the most authentic and memorable experiences.

Savor a steaming bowl of Pho, Vietnam's iconic noodle soup, a must-try culinary experience in Hanoi.

Tip: Look for busy local spots for the most authentic and delicious Pho.

Indulge in a Banh Mi, a delicious Vietnamese baguette sandwich filled with various savory ingredients.

Tip: A perfect quick and tasty meal for any time of day.

Learn about Vietnam's turbulent history at this former prison, known as the 'Hanoi Hilton' by American POWs, offering a sobering look at wartime experiences.

Tip: The exhibits can be intense; prepare for a moving and educational visit.

Venture into less-touristed neighborhoods like Cau Giay to experience a more authentic, local side of Hanoi with hidden alleys to explore.

Tip: This area offers a glimpse into daily life away from the main tourist hubs.

Discover the Ba Dinh district, known for its historical significance and local charm, offering a more authentic Vietnamese experience.

Tip: It's a great area to wander and discover hidden gems away from the typical tourist path.

Wander through the Dong Da district, a densely populated area with numerous small alleys, perfect for getting lost and discovering local life.

Tip: Embrace the opportunity to explore the less-trodden paths.

Experience the local vibe in Thanh Xuan district, a residential area with fewer expats, offering a genuine glimpse into Hanoi life.

Tip: This district provides an opportunity to see Hanoi beyond the tourist facade.