Hanoi is brimming with countless discoveries for everyone. Among the myriad spots on the map, we have curated and highlighted the best things to do in Hanoi for you.
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Must-Do Things in Hanoi
For first-time visitors to Hanoi, we highly recommend taking the time to savor the city’s most renowned and signature attractions.
1. Explore Iconic Landmarks
Scattered throughout Hanoi are historical sites from various historical periods, each telling its own story and reflecting the cultural, material, and spiritual life of the Vietnamese people through the ages. The most notable landmarks in Hanoi are Hoan Kiem Lake & Ngoc Son Temple, Old Quarter & French Quarter, Temple of Literature, Ho Chi Minh Complex, Imperial Citadel of Thang Long, and West Lake & Tran Quoc Pagoda.
2. Indulge in Signature Local Dishes
In 2024, Hanoi earned its well-deserved spot on Tripadvisor’s list of the top 15 most captivating culinary destinations worldwide. Among the most popular dishes in Hanoi are Pho, Banh Mi, Bun Cha, and Cha Ca La Vong. Each of these offers a unique blend of flavors and textures, from the comforting warmth of Pho to the smoky, grilled essence of Bun Cha. The city also boasts Bun Rieu, Pho Cuon, Bun Dau Mam Tom, Banh Xeo Nem Lui, Banh Cuon, and the crispy Banh Tom Ho Tay are culinary staples.
3. Shop for Unique Souvenirs
Hanoi is a veritable paradise for shopping enthusiasts. Visitors can explore bustling marketplaces like Dong Xuan Market, Vincom Ba Trieu, and AEON Mall Long Bien, or wander through the historic Old Quarter, where tradition meets modernity. Those in search of fashion can visit M2 and Vietbrothers shops.
Among the most coveted items that foreign visitors bring back from Vietnam are aromatic coffee, fragrant tea, and an array of handcrafted goods such as ceramics, finely woven bamboo and rattan products, and delicately carved wooden artifacts. Jewelry and tailored clothing are also favored purchases. Snacks such as preserved plums, dried fruits, and traditional rice-based sweets offer a taste of Vietnam’s culinary heritage.
4. People-Watch at a Quaint Coffee Shop
One of the simple pleasures of traveling in Vietnam is savoring a drink while chatting and taking in the view. As you sip on your meticulously crafted espresso, the world outside unfolds like a scene from a novel. You can choose from cozy street-side cafés or opt for a higher vantage point with a rooftop café.
5. See the City on a Double-Decker Bus
The lowest fare for the bus is 200,000 VND (around 8 USD), offering either a 2-hour or 4-hour experience depending on the route. You can grab your ticket at the bus stops near Hanoi Opera House or Dong Kinh Nghia Thuc Square by Sword Lake. It is best to take the ride on a cool day—sitting on the upper deck is much more comfortable then. The bus will take you on a journey past some of the most significant sites in Hanoi.
Unique Hanoi Experiences
In addition to its famous sights and intriguing experiences, Hanoi offers its own distinct character that you can discover through the following activities:
6. Visit Museums
Each museum in Hanoi is a world of cultural and historical artifacts, each with its own stories to tell. You can explore the Ho Chi Minh Museum, the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology, the Vietnamese Women’s Museum, the Hoa Lo Prison, the Vietnam Military History Museum, the National Museum of Vietnamese History, etc.
7. Attend a Water Puppet Show
Water puppetry is an ancient folk art of Vietnam, dating back to around the 11th century. A performance, typically lasting about an hour, transports you into the traditional cultural landscape of Vietnam, blending music, water puppets, and actions that mimic daily activities. You can experience this at the Thang Long Water Puppet Theater, with ticket prices ranging from 4 to 8 USD, depending on where you choose to sit.
8. Take a Cyclo Ride Through the Streets
The cyclo isn’t as widely used in Vietnam as it was in the 19th and 20th centuries, but it remains a leisurely way to get around, soak in the street views of Hanoi, and experience a unique local mode of transport. You can find cyclos around the Old Quarter near the lake, and a one-hour ride typically costs about 4 to 6 USD.
9. Join a Coffee Workshop
You have tasted Vietnamese coffee and found it absolutely delightful, so how about joining a coffee workshop to dive deeper into the world of Vietnamese coffee and learn how to brew some amazing recipes to try at home? A coffee workshop usually lasts a few hours and costs around 20 to 30 USD.
10. Try Your Hand at Paper-Making
If you are passionate about crafting, trying your hand at making Dó paper is an experience worth having. You will get to practice each step of the process, from creating the paper to decorating it using entirely natural materials. The finished product could be a notebook, a fan, paper earrings, lanterns, or even a traditional conical hat.
11. Stay at a Charming Boutique Hotel
Choosing the right place to stay is also a way to truly experience a destination. Hotels in Hanoi may not always have the luxury of space, but many focus on storytelling and intricate details. Hotels like Smarana Hanoi, Peridot Gallery, and Apricot not only offer excellent service but also feature decor that’s thoughtfully curated, with elements deeply connected to the city’s culture and history.
12. Visit the Famous Train Street
Hanoi’s Old Quarter is home to dozens of streets, but the most captivating one is Train Street. Three-quarters of this narrow lane is reserved for the train tracks, while the remaining sliver of space is shared by pedestrians and modest spots where you can sit and enjoy a cup of coffee.
13. Dine on Vietnamese Cuisine at a Local Restaurant
Vietnamese street food is incredibly famous with a long list of must-try dishes. However, it is equally delightful to enjoy a warm traditional Vietnamese meal that includes rice, a variety of vegetables, meats, fish sauce, pickled items, and soup. For an authentic experience, you can visit restaurants like Sen Tonkin, MẸT, Ngon Garden, Tầm Vị, or Home Mộc.
14. Watch The Quintessence of Tonkin Show
This outdoor live performance takes place on a lake surface, with local performers bringing to life the vibrant culture of Northern Vietnam. The show is a harmonious blend of traditional costumes, props, and mesmerizing sound and light effects, all executed by seasoned artists who carry the essence of the region in their craft. Ticket prices are on the higher side, ranging from 400,000 to 600,000 VND (16 to 24 USD).
15. Take Photos in Insence Village
Quảng Phú Cầu Incense Village is a place where countless travelers capture memories that exude the essence of Vietnam, much like the famous Train Street. With an entrance fee of around 4 USD pp, visitors can explore this traditional craft village and snap photos against vibrant, eye-catching backdrops that truly stand out.
16. Walk Across Long Bien Bridge
Long Biên Bridge dates back to the 19th century. Its structure is quintessential of old Vietnamese bridges, with two lanes on either side for vehicles and a central track for trains to pass through. Nearby, you will find the 3.8-kilometer-long Ceramic Road, which beautifully captures the cultural essence of Hanoi through intricate ceramic murals adorning walls that rise 1.7 meters high.
17. Enjoy Vegetarian Delights
Vietnamese vegetarian cuisine is often praised for its rich diversity of ingredients, wide array of dishes, and creative preparation methods, all coming together to create an incredibly delicious veggie experience. Across Hanoi, you will find many vegetarian buffet restaurants like Hương Thiền, Veggie Castle, and An Lạc, as well as refined establishments such as Vị Lai and Ưu Đàm, where each dish is crafted with care and artistry.
Unusual Things to Do in Hanoi
Hanoi is known for its many famous characteristics, but there are also hidden layers beneath the surface, inviting you to delve deeper into the cultural sediment of this city.
18. Discover Hidden Eateries
Hanoi’s culinary scene offers yet another delightful chapter to explore. This time, it is not the famous dishes, home-cooked comfort food, or vegetarian fare, but the inviting warmth of hotpot, BBQ, and seafood restaurants. The trend of leisurely gathering for a hotpot or BBQ meal is a beloved custom in Hanoi, where sumptuous feasts bring people together and reflect the city’s vibrant dining culture. Indulge in this experience at places like Gogi House, King BBQ, YANG Buffet, Ăndeee, Mr. Q, or seafood havens like Oc Bu Hai Phong, Oc Ms.Le Cua Bac, and Oc Vi Sai Gon.
19. Wander the Old Quarter’s Hidden Alleys
The Old Quarter is a place where there is always something new to uncover behind its busy facades. If you are willing to venture into the maze of narrow alleyways, you will find the hidden homes and daily lives of the Old Quarter’s residents, tucked away in these tight spaces. You might also stumble upon cozy cafés, quirky bars, and eateries that are as challenging to find as they are rewarding.
20. Join a Local Cooking Class or Home-Hosted Meal
A hands-on culinary experience in Hanoi invites you to dive right into the local food scene. You can start by going to the market to pick out fresh ingredients, then cook up traditional Vietnamese dishes under the guidance of a local, and finally, savor the fruits of your labor. Alternatively, you might choose to visit a local’s home, where you will be warmly welcomed, share conversations, and enjoy a home-cooked meal with their family.
21. Tour the City by Minsk Motorbike or Jeep
Hanoi is often playfully referred to as the motorbike capital of Vietnam. While motorbikes are widely used across the country, the sheer number of people commuting in Hanoi makes the motorbike traffic here incredibly crazy. How about hopping on a motorbike and exploring Hanoi like a local? For a grittier, more adventurous experience, you could try a Minsk motorbike tour or ride in a military-style jeep, touring around the city and venturing into the outskirts of Hanoi.
22. Bike Around West Lake
The 5.3-kilometer route around West Lake is a well-frequented biking path in the city. You can either rent a bike from lakeside rental shops or use the TNGo app to access public bicycles. As you bike around the lake, you can stop along the way to exercise or grab a bite to eat. There are plenty of shops lining both sides of the lake, offering various options to refresh and enjoy the surroundings.
23. SUP on West Lake
In the early morning, some people head to West Lake to exercise or paddleboard on the tranquil waters, savoring the fresh morning air and watching the city slowly wake up. You can rent a paddleboard for 8 to 10 USD at the Ho Tay Boat Club, located at 292 Lac Long Quan.
24. Experience Hanoi’s Flood Season
During Hanoi’s rainy season in July and August, there are occasional days of heavy, prolonged downpours. The aftermath often leaves low-lying areas flooded for hours, sometimes even days, as the water struggles to drain away. Vietnamese people humorously refer to this as the creation of “Urban Bay” in Hanoi, in addition to Ha Long Bay, the UNESCO site. These newly coined landmarks include Trieu Khuc Bay, Cau Giay Island, My Dinh Deep Water Port, Thai Thinh River, and Trang Tien Lagoon. These spots are notorious for heavy flooding, where the water can reach up to your ankles, knees, or even waist.
25. Try Your Luck at Vegas M E-Gaming Club
If you are in the mood to try your luck at a casino, you can visit Vegas M E-Gaming Club—the oldest gaming club in Hanoi—located at the HCO building, 44 Ly Thuong Kiet.
26. Buy Tire Sandals as a Unique Souvenir
Tire Sandals also known as rubber sandals, were crafted from recycled tire rubber during the war era. These sandals were famously worn by Vietnam’s former president, Ho Chi Minh, throughout his lifelong struggle for the country’s independence and freedom. Beyond being a symbol of resilience and perseverance, these sandals are known for their comfort, durability, and long-lasting wear. You can find them near the Ho Chi Minh Museum within the Ho Chi Minh Complex.
Free Things to Do in Hanoi
There are plenty of things to do in Hanoi that won’t break the bank, offering rich experiences without a hefty price tag.
27. Start Your Day with Morning Exercise at Hoan Kiem Lake
If you were to ask whether there is a moment of peace and clarity amidst the hectic life in Hanoi, it would be in the early mornings, when the city slowly awakens. A stroll around Hoàn Kiếm Lake (Sword Lake) will refresh your senses and offer a glimpse into the morning routines of the locals—exercising, taking photos, selling warm street breakfasts, or setting up their stalls to start a new day of business.
28. Stroll Through the Walking Street
Walking Street is the road that circles around Hoan Kiem Lake. Every weekend, from Friday evening to Sunday night, this street is closed to vehicles, turning it into a pedestrian-only area. It becomes a vibrant space for events, exhibitions, street performances, group games, and sometimes even fairs. The atmosphere is lively and bustling, making it a wonderful spot to soak in the city’s sense of community energy.
29. Discover Hidden Temples & Pagodas
Scattered among the streets of Hanoi are small temples and pagodas, often blending into the bustling cityscape. Amidst the constant flow of people on the move, you might find it challenging to spot these quiet sanctuaries. As you stroll through the Old Quarter, it is common to encounter several temples, such as Ba Da Temple, Ly Chieu Quoc Su, Kim Co, Thai Cam, Phap Bao Tang, Vinh Tru, Huyen Thien, Cau Dong, etc.
30. Visit the B-52 Wreckage
In the middle of Huu Tiep Lake lies the wreckage of a B-52 Stratofortress, shot down by Vietnamese air defenses during the 12-day bombing campaign of Northern Vietnam by the US Army. This hidden historical site is nestled within a residential area where daily life continues as usual. It is also located near the B-52 Victory Museum.
31. Walk in Thong Nhat Park & Sip Coffee by the Lake
Thong Nhat Park, located 3km from Old Quarter, is a leisure spot with no entrance fee. The park comes alive in the late afternoon, from 5 to 7 pm, as people finish work or school and come to exercise. As you stroll through, you might encounter groups doing aerobics, dancing, or meditating, and you will find several stalls selling clothes and snacks near the park entrance. You can pause by the lake to sip on fresh coconut water or enjoy a coffee while watching the sunset over the water in a laid-back atmosphere.
Things to Do in Hanoi at Night
In the evening, while many places have closed and people are heading home, it is also a perfect time to enjoy some of Hanoi’s activities.
32. Enjoy the Buzz of Ta Hien Beer Street
Bia Conner is renowned for its lively nighttime atmosphere in Hanoi, attracting everyone for a good time. The street is lined with numerous beer joints, indoor bars, and rooftop bars. People gather everywhere, including on street-side chairs, to chat, sip on beer, and enjoy some snacks.
33. Relax at Rooftop Bars
If you are looking for a more relaxed spot where you can enjoy delicious drinks, take in beautiful views, and listen to live music, consider visiting sky bars like Terraco Skybar, AIRA Sky Bar & Lounge, Lighthouse Sky Bar, or Moonlight Sky Bar. Additionally, there are other great bars in the city, such as Nê Cocktail Bar, Polite & Co, and SWI:P Speakeasy Bar.
34. Unwind with a Spa or Massage
After a long day exploring Hanoi, a massage session can be a wonderful way to relax and pamper both your body and soul. You might want to visit places like Serene Spa Hanoi, Lessence Spa, Hanoi Labelle Vie Spa, or L’essence De La Vie Spa.
Things to Do Around Hanoi
If you have more time, you can venture into the outskirts of Hanoi, just a few hours away. Let’s explore the nearby gems worth discovering.
35. Day Trip to Bat Trang Pottery Village: Try Pottery & Enjoy a Traditional Feast
This village is about 10 kilometers from the city center. On a day here, you can take a leisurely stroll, explore the market brimming with ceramic products, try your hand at pottery, visit historic homes, and enjoy a meal featuring the village’s special dishes.
36. Visit Duong Lam Ancient Village
This ancient village is 44 kilometers from Hanoi. If you are curious about what a traditional Vietnamese countryside village without high-rise buildings looks like, this village is a prime example. It showcases the classic features of old Vietnamese villages, with low-rise houses, curved tile roofs, brick construction, and traditional structures like village gates, wells, and temples.
37. Visit Thanh Chuong Palace
The palace is 40 kilometers from Hanoi. This expansive complex has been meticulously restored to feature traditional buildings, lotus ponds, gardens, antiques, and artworks. It beautifully captures the essence of traditional Vietnamese culture, thanks to the efforts of artist Thanh Chuong.
38. Take an Eco Tour in Ba Vi
Bavi is 60 kilometers from Hanoi. It is a lush, green destination perfect for an eco-friendly getaway. When you visit Bavi, you can enjoy hiking, exploring tea hills, taking a dip in natural springs, going camping, and visiting traditional craft workshops.
39. Explore the Beauty of Ninh Binh
Ninh Binh is about 100 kilometers from Hanoi. Once the ancient capital of Vietnam’s first feudal state, it is also renowned for its serene countryside landscapes of mountains and rivers. Visitors often come to Ninh Binh to take in the breathtaking scenery and embark on enchanting boat rides through its picturesque waterways.
40. Cruise in Halong Bay
Halong is 180 kilometers from Hanoi. With a drive on the highway, you can reach it in about 2 to 2.5 hours. Halong is also a vibrant coastal city, perfect for exploring its entertainment spots or taking a one-day cruise to the stunning bay area. There, you can visit islands, explore caves, go kayaking, swim, and more.
Here are suggestions for things to do in Hanoi, ranging from iconic experiences to unique and non-touristy activities. Hanoi is truly brimming with discoveries. If you need help planning your visit for a smooth and personalized experience, you can reach out to Eviva Tour Vietnam for straightforward guidance and attentive services.
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