Hanoi is the perfect place to start—or finish—your trip through Vietnam.
Not only is it the country’s capital, but also one of the must-visit destinations in Vietnam, packed with fascinating sights and unforgettable experiences.
You won’t easily get bored in Hanoi. Motorbikes, honking horns, street food aromas, vendors on every corner… the city is pure sensory overload.
At first it can feel overwhelming, but soon it becomes the perfect soundtrack to kick off your Southeast Asia adventure. That’s why Hanoi remains one of our favorite cities in the region—a place that truly captivated us from the very beginning.
To help you make the most of your stay, we’ve created a complete 2025 guide to the best things to do in Hanoi. And here’s the beauty of it: there’s no single “right way” to explore the city—just countless possibilities.
From wandering the lively Old Quarter, bargaining at colorful markets, or simply sitting on a tiny plastic chair watching daily life go by while sipping on a legendary egg coffee, Hanoi offers something for every taste and budget.
Stay with us—we’ll take you through all the top attractions, of Hanoi, hidden gems, and local experiences so you can get the very best out of your trip to Hanoi. Let’s dive in!
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1. Learn Hanoi’s history on a free walking tour
One of the best ways to experience Hanoi is by getting lost in its maze of narrow streets and soaking up the explosion of flavors, aromas, and sounds that surround you at every corner of the Old Quarter.
If you love going beyond the surface and truly getting to know the places you visit, we highly recommend joining a free walking tour of Hanoi’s Old Quarter.
Es una introducción ideal a la cultura vietnamita y te llevará por los puntos más icónicos del centro histórico de Hanoi, mientras descubres datos curiosos y sorprendentes sobre la realidad de la ciudad y el país.
The best part? It’s completely free—though leaving a tip is always appreciated if you enjoy the experience.
Just make sure to book in advance, as spots tend to fill up quickly.
Whether you’re traveling solo or with friends, wandering through the Old Quarter is an unmissable experience. Sit down at one of the countless tiny cafés with their iconic plastic chairs, order a cup of strong Vietnamese coffee, and simply watch the vibrant daily life go by. Every minute in Hanoi feels special—so relax, take it in, and let the city guide you.
2. Take a Day trip to Ha Long Bay from Hanoi
If there’s one must-see attraction near Hanoi, it’s Ha Long Bay
Located just about two hours from the capital, Halong Bay is considered one of the natural wonders of the world, making it an essential stop on any Vietnam itinerary.
There are several ways to visit. You can make your own way to Hai Phong port or Cat Ba Island and book a cruise on the spot. However, the most popular—and easiest—option is to book an organized Ha Long Bay tour from Hanoi.
You’ll usually find both 1-day Ha Long Bay cruises and 2-day, 1-night options (which we highly recommend).
These tours typically include round-trip transfers from Hanoi, the boat cruise, meals on board, and entry tickets to some of the stunning caves, islets, and lagoons—depending on the route you choose. It’s a hassle-free way to enjoy one of Vietnam’s most breathtaking landscapes, and definitely one of the best day trips from Hanoi.
3. Watch the train pass on Hanoi Train Street
We call it a “street,” but in reality Hanoi Train Street is nothing more than a narrow section of railway that cuts right through the city—just inches away from local homes and tiny cafés. When the train passes, the scene is as dramatic as it is unforgettable.
This spot has become one of the most Instagrammable places in Hanoi, and it’s easy to see why.
Colorful houses, locals going about their day, and suddenly a massive train rolling through—it’s a sight you won’t forget.
If you love capturing unique travel photos, a visit here will definitely light up your social media feed.
Although parts of Hanoi Train Street have were officially closed to the public in recent years, it’s still possible to visit safely. Many cafés along the tracks remain open, offering a drink with a front-row view of the train as it passes.
4. Watch a Traditional Water Puppet Show in Hanoi
One of Vietnam’s most unique traditional art forms is the water puppet theatre.
This centuries-old performance style originated in the rice fields of rural villages. Farmers would stand knee-deep in flooded paddies, skillfully manipulating wooden puppets across the water’s surface to tell stories of everyday life, folklore, and legends.
Over time, this art form spread throughout the country, eventually becoming a highlight of festivals and cultural events—today performed in dedicated theatres.
In Hanoi, the most famous venue is the Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre, located right next to Hoan Kiem Lake in the heart of the Old Quarter. Here, you can enjoy daily shows (yes, 365 days a year) and experience one of Vietnam’s most iconic cultural performances.
👉 Pro tip: tickets sell out quickly, so it’s best to book in advance
Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre — Show Times & Tickets
- Show times: daily at 16:10, 17:20, 18:30, and 20:00
- Ticket price: 150,000 – 200,000 VND
- Tickets can be purchased directly at the theatre or book online here in advance
5. Eat Bún Chả — Hanoi’s signature dish
Bún Chả is a traditional dish from Hanoi, and one of the most flavorful meals you can try in northern Vietnam. It’s hearty, delicious, and an absolute must for food lovers.Bún Chả es un plato típico de Hanoi, que también podrás encontrar en otras zonas del norte de Vietnam.
It is without a doubt one of our favorite foods in Vietnam and probably one of the most filling dishes.
This dish basically consists of a kind of broth to which small grilled pork patties and pork belly are added, along with some vegetables, usually bamboo.
On the side, thin rice noodles, known as Bún, are served together with a small basket of fresh herbs to add as you like.
As if that were not enough, you will usually also find several condiments on the table, such as vinegar, garlic, and the green chili that locals often use generously to enhance the flavor of the dish.
You can also order fried Vietnamese spring rolls to go with it, something common in most restaurants that serve this dish.También puedes pedir rollitos vietnamitas fritos para acompañarlo, algo normal en la mayoría de restaurantes que sirven este plato.
Eat Bun Cha Hanoi: A Traditional Vietnamese Dish
One of the challenges many Western visitors face when coming to Vietnam for the first time is learning how to eat traditional Vietnamese dishes. To make sure this doesn’t happen to you, here is the traditional way to eat Bun Cha Hanoi:
- Take the bowl with the meat and broth.
- Add garlic, chili, and pickled vinegar to your taste.
- Add the herbs you like most, chopping them into small pieces.
- Keep adding noodles and dipping them inside.
- Enjoy the flavors!
6. Try Egg Coffee in Hanoi: A Unique Vietnamese Coffee Experience
Yes, you heard that right — made with egg. And before your Western gastronomic prejudices convince you it’s a strange combination, let us tell you in advance: it will surprise you enormously.
As the world’s second-largest coffee exporter, Vietnam is a country where coffee is an essential part of daily life and Vietnamese society
Hanoi is the perfect example of this coffee culture and the ideal place to try some varieties of coffee that are harder to find in other parts of the country, such as egg coffee, yogurt coffee, or coconut coffee (our personal favorite).
Here we share with you a complete guide to the best cafés and types of coffee you can discover in Vietnam’s capital — an essential Hanoi experience.
7. Enjoy the nightlife at a Bia Hoi & Ta Hien “Beer Street”
A stop at a Bia Hoi is an essential part of nightlife in Hanoi.
Bia Hoi, which literally translates as “fresh beer,” is a light beer brewed daily without preservatives, which means it spoils quickly.
It is served in small street bars of the same name all over the city and is especially popular in Hanoi. Its low price (around 10,000 VND per glass), light alcohol content (3–4%), and smooth taste — particularly appealing for Western visitors used to stronger beers — have made it one of Hanoi’s most popular attractions
If you are a beer lover, don’t miss the chance to sit on the tiny plastic chairs of a Bia Hoi in the capital, enjoy a cold glass, and watch everyday life unfold around you.
Ta Hien Beer Street Hanoi
Beer Street, officially known as Ta Hien Street, is one of the most vibrant and lively streets in Hanoi.
Although weekends are when it reaches its peak, you can find a lively atmosphere almost any night of the week. Similar to Bui Vien Street in Ho Chi Minh City, if nightlife is your thing, this is the perfect place to have fun in Hanoi.
If you are a beer lover, don’t miss the chance to sit on the tiny plastic chairs of a Bia Hoi in the capital, enjoy a cold glass, and watch everyday life unfold around you.
8. Shopping around the Hanoi Night Market
If your visit to the capital coincides with the weekend, you’re in luck — you’ll be able to explore the Hanoi Night Market, located right in the Old Quarter.
It stretches from the beginning of Hoan Kiem Lake all the way to the daytime Dong Xuan Market.
You’ll find it open every weekend — Friday, Saturday, and Sunday — from around 7 pm, when vendors begin setting up their stalls.
Here you can find all kinds of souvenirs, clothes, street food, and endless trinkets, perfect for picking up gifts for family and friends without spending a fortune.
Dong Xuan Market: Hanoi’s old quarter day market
If you’re someone who enjoys diving into the heart of local life, visiting Dong Xuan Market is one of the must-see places in Hanoi to truly understand how the city lives.
Inside, you’ll find a wide variety of items such as clothes, shoes, household appliances, toys, and fabrics. It’s a market aimed more at the local economy than at tourism, which makes wandering through it a unique experience.
As if the inside weren’t enough, one of its outer streets hosts a wet market selling vegetables, fruits, meat, dried goods, and much more. The sheer variety of products sold here daily is astonishing.
- The market is open every day from 8:00 am to 8:00 pm.
- ⚠️ If you have a sensitive stomach or can’t handle strong smells, it’s best to skip this part.
9. Treat yourself a vietnamese massage
If you’re a fan of relaxation and taking good care of your body, you’re in luck — Vietnam is one of the best countries in the world to enjoy high-quality massages at very affordable prices.
In Vietnam, massage is part of family and social culture, so you’ll find salons offering these services almost on every corner.
The traditional Vietnamese massage combines local techniques with influences from Chinese medicine, focusing on deep pressure and the manipulation of specific points on the body to relieve daily stress.
Trying a Vietnamese massage is one of the most relaxing and revitalizing experiences you can enjoy during your visit to Hanoi or any other city in the country.
Among our favorite spas in Hanoi is without a doubt Omamori Spa, where you’ll receive an outstanding massage from visually impaired therapists. If you prefer a foot massage, one of the best we’ve experienced is at Tâm Spa, 38 Hàng Bông Street.
Prices usually start around 250,000 VND for a full-body massage and about 100,000 VND for a foot massage.
Wherever you are, don’t hesitate — after a long day of sightseeing around the city, reward your body with a good Vietnamese massage.
10 . 10. Walk around Hoan Kiem Lake and Ngoc Son Temple
Hoan Kiem Lake is one of the most iconic landmarks to see in Hanoi and a peaceful retreat in the middle of the city’s hustle and bustle. This lake is the perfect place for a walk, to recharge by the water, and to discover the fascinating history behind it.
Once known as the Emerald Lake because of its green water throughout the year, it was renamed in the 15th century as Hoan Kiem Lake (Lake of the Returned Sword).
According to legend, Emperor Le Loi returned a magical sword to a turtle after defeating the Ming dynasty.
We share the full story here.
For centuries, the lake has been home to a species of giant turtles, which in Vietnamese culture are considered sacred creatures symbolizing longevity, wisdom, and good fortune.
11. Visit Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum
One of the most essential places to visit in Hanoi is the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, since no trip to the capital is complete without visiting the man considered the father of modern Vietnam.
For many Vietnamese, Ho Chi Minh is much more than a patriotic symbol, and his remains are a true place of worship, visited by thousands of locals and tourists every year. Similar to other communist mausoleums such as Lenin’s, stepping inside is an unforgettable experience you shouldn’t miss when in Hanoi.
Although President Ho Chi Minh expressed in his will the desire to be cremated and have his ashes scattered across the three regions of the country (north, central, and south), the government decided to embalm his body and build a mausoleum so people could come and pay their respects.
Since its inauguration in 1975, it has been one of the most visited sites in Vietnam, especially by schools and families.
The mausoleum’s exterior is built of gray granite with marble columns. Inside, what stands out most — aside from the solemn atmosphere and the cold temperature — is the remarkable preservation of Ho Chi Minh’s body, with four soldiers permanently standing guard in the room.
Visitor Tips and Schedule
- Opening hours: Open every day except Monday
- Entrance: Free of charge
- Dress code: Modest attire is required.
- Extra Tip: Arrive early to avoid heat and long queues.
12. Temple of Literature (Vietnam’s first university)
Otra de las cosas que hacer en Hanoi, es atravesar las puertas del Templo de la Literatura para conocer lo que en su momento fué la primera universidad de Vietnam, punto de enseñanza para gran parte de la élite de eruditos vietnamitas.
Its history dates back to the year 1070, when it is believed to have been founded by Emperor Ly Thanh Tong in honor of the Chinese philosopher Confucius.
A few years later, his son established the Imperial Academy here, where royalty, nobles, princes, and bureaucrats studied Confucian doctrines and received their academic training.
Today, it is one of the best places to visit in Hanoi. Although it has changed over time and suffered some deterioration, it is still well preserved. Visitors can spend a good amount of time strolling through its courtyards and interiors, admiring the beautiful architecture and learning how Vietnam’s intellectual elite were educated after passing rigorous exams and tests.
Despite its name, the Temple of Literature is no longer a religious site in use but rather a historical and cultural landmark, mainly attracting tourists.
13. Hoa Lo Prison (“The Hanoi Hilton”)
If you’re interested in learning more about Vietnam’s history and its turbulent past, Hoa Lo Prison is one of the places you can’t miss in Hanoi.
Also known sarcastically as the “Hanoi Hilton,” it was originally built by the French colonial government at the end of the 19th century to imprison Vietnamese political dissidents. Later, it was used by the North Vietnamese government to hold American prisoners of war during the Vietnam War.
Today, the Maison Centrale has been transformed into a museum that tells the story of the prison and its former inmates. If you want to better understand the dark history hidden behind Hoa Lo’s thick walls, don’t hesitate to visit this site — a place that is equally powerful and moving
14. Discover Hanoi Old Quarter
The Old Quarter of Hanoi is one of the must-see places to visit on your trip to Vietnam and the ideal area to stay, especially if it’s your first time in the city.
The Old Quarter is a maze of ancient streets where tourists and locals mix with restaurants, all kinds of shops, dozens of travel agencies, and a café on almost every corner. We dare say that almost anything you can think of can be found in Hanoi’s Old Quarter.
History of the Old Quarter
The history of Hanoi dates back to the 11th century, when Emperor Ly Thai To decided to move the capital from Hoa Lu (Ninh Binh) to Hanoi. With the court came numerous artisans from across the regions, who settled in the area and organized into guilds.
According to legend, the emperor dreamed of a dragon majestically ascending into the sky from the Red River. Interpreting this as a divine sign of prosperity and growth, he moved the capital from Hoa Lu to what we now know as Hanoi.
Inspired by his vision, he named the new capital Thang Long, meaning The Rising Dragon
Even today, the streets of the Old Quarter remain organized by guilds. Some of the main ones you can explore include:
- Hang Bac Street: specializing in gold and silver jewelry, also one of the best places in the city to exchange money.
- Hang Ma Street: focused on offerings, decorations, and toys, especially for the Mid-Autumn Festival and Christmas
- Hang Buom Street: known for sweets and jams, particularly during Tet Festival.
- Hang Thiec Street: dedicated to iron products of all kinds.
- Lan Ong Street: famous for traditional medicine and natural remedies, a walk here is a true delight for the senses.
While many streets have evolved over time and lost their original elements, some have managed to preserve their charm. Among them, you can visit those open to the public, such as Ma May Ancient House (No. 87, Ma May Street).
15. Imperial Citadel of Thang Long
Another must-see in Hanoi is the Imperial Citadel of Thang Long, declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2010.
Built in the style of other grand courts such as Beijing’s Forbidden City, the Imperial Citadel of Thang Long takes us back to a not-so-distant past, when Vietnam was still ruled by emperors and royal courts.
With origins dating back to the 7th century, the first structure here was a fortress used by the Chinese, who controlled much of northern Vietnam at the time. It was not until the 10th century, however, that Thang Long was officially built on this very site.
Although the current complex has little in common with the original citadel — due to centuries of destruction and reconstruction — it remains a significant symbol of Vietnamese history
Inside, apart from the numerous ruins, you can also find the flag tower, another of the most famous symbols of Hanoi.
In 1802, Emperor Gia Long, founder of the Nguyen dynasty, moved the capital of Vietnam from Hanoi to Hue, ending Thang Long’s role as the imperial center of power.
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16. One Pillar Pagoda & the Presidential Palace
Two sites that perfectly complement your visit to the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, thanks to their proximity, are the One Pillar Pagoda and the Presidential Palace — both must-see stops if you only have one day in Hanoi.
One Pillar Pagoda
The One Pillar Pagoda was originally built in the 11th century by Emperor Ly Thai Tong, though it was completely destroyed during the Vietnam War.
This special place has since been fully restored, based on its original and unique design, making it one of the most curious landmarks you can explore during your stay in Hanoi.
Presidential Palace
The Presidential Palace is located right next to the One Pillar Pagoda and is an interesting visit to combine with both the pagoda and the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, as they are all part of the same complex.
Built in the early 20th century as the official residence of the Governor-General of French Indochina, the building was — unsurprisingly — designed in European style, a clear mark of the colonial influence of the era.
After 1954, it became the official residence of President Ho Chi Minh. However, he refused to live inside the palace, considering it inappropriate while ordinary people were struggling to make a living. Instead, he moved into a simple traditional wooden house nearby, surrounded by a garden and a fish pond.
Opening hours & ticket price
- Entrance fee: Free for locals
- 40,000 VND for foreing visitors
17.Vietnam Military History Museum
The Vietnam Military History Museum in Hanoi offers a complete journey through the many armed conflicts that have sadly marked Vietnam’s history over the centuries.
This museum is a must-visit in Hanoi if you are passionate about military history. Conveniently located near the Old Quarter, in the embassy district and within walking distance of landmarks such as the Presidential Palace and the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, it’s easy to include on your itinerary.
The museum consists of three buildings, each with two floors filled with war artifacts and historical documents.
Among the exhibits are mines, infrared optics, telephones, and butterfly bombs produced by the U.S. and used by France during the Indochina War, as well as wooden stakes used in the famous naval battle of Bach Dang against the Mongol army in 1288.
But undoubtedly the most interesting thing about this place is being able to walk through its outdoor courtyard among the remains of American aircraft, helicopters, missiles and tanks, including the fuselage of a U.S. F-111A.
Opening hours & ticket price
- Opening Hours: 8:00 am – 11:30 am and 1:30 pm – 4:30 pm
- Entrance Fee: 40,000 VND
18. Walk aroung the French Quarter
The French Quarter is one of the most picturesque places to see in Hanoi. It was built at the end of the 19th century with the goal of blending Western lifestyle with Vietnamese culture and creating an operational area for French governors and soldiers
This neighborhood is an ideal place to stroll if you want to appreciate the strong French influence on Hanoi’s architecture and urban planning.
Although the French Quarter and the Old Quarter of Hanoi are close to each other, they are distinct areas of the city:
- The Old Quarter is located mainly to the north and west of Hoan Kiem Lake.
- The French Quarter lies to the south and east of the lake.
Entre sus construcciones más icónicas se encuentran la Catedral de San José, la Prisión de Hoa Lo y la Ópera de Hanoi.
19. Hanoi Opera House
It is the largest theater in Vietnam and a significant historical and architectural landmark in the city. Its neoclassical design is strongly influenced by the Paris Opera and classical Greek architecture.
- Opening Hours: Varies
- Entrance Fee: Depends on the performance
20. St. Joseph’s Cathedral
It is the oldest church in Hanoi and the first French colonial building in Indochina.
This magnificent neo-Gothic building is inspired by the cathedral of Notre Dame de Paris.
- Opening Hours: All the time for exterior visits and during the hours of ceremony for interior visits.
- Entrance fee: Free
21. World’s Longest Ceramic Mosaic
Really? That’s in Hanoi? Yes, and it’s worth a look.
Although it is not among the most famous attractions — and many overlook it due to its unusual location — this mosaic in Hanoi stretches for several kilometers, holds a world record, and is well worth a walk.
22. West Lake y la pagoda de Tran Quoc
West Lake (Ho Tay), located in the northwest of the city, is the largest natural lake in Hanoi and without a doubt one of the capital’s most iconic landmarks.
With a circumference of around 15 kilometers, it is frequented mostly by locals and by a number of expatriates who have settled in the Western-style houses that line the area.
Es para nosotros un buen lugar para desconectarse del bullicio de la ciudad y experimentar la vida auténtica de la población local.
Along the lakeside you’ll find restaurants, cafés, and a lively nightlife scene, making this area one of the most popular in Hanoi.
Among the many attractions of West Lake are Tran Quoc Pagoda, the oldest pagoda in the capital, built in the 6th century during the reign of King Ly Nam De, and Tay Ho Temple, one of the most sacred temples in Hanoi.
Map: Best places to visit in Hanoi
Here we leave you with an updated map of the most important places to see in Hanoi, so you can consult them quickly and easily.
Getting around Hanoi
One of the main concerns for travelers in Vietnam is figuring out how to get around easily.
The good news is that if you’re staying within the Old Quarter, most attractions are within walking distance—making it perfectly manageable on foot.
If you don’t feel like walking or want to head further afield (for example to West Lake or the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum), the easiest option is to use the Grab app.
This ride-hailing service works across Southeast Asia and lets you book either a motorbike or a car at a fixed price in advance.
For a more traditional approach, you can always hail a regular taxi or motorbike taxi on the street—both are plentiful in the city center.
Finally, a popular way for tourists to get around is by Rickshaw, a form of transport that became especially popular in the first decades of the last century.
How to get from Noi Bai Airport to the Old Quarter
If it is your first time and you have just landed in Hanoi, we explain how to easily get from Noi Bai airport to the old quarter of Hanoi, where most of the city’s tourism is located.
From Hanoi to Ninh Binh
If you are thinking of continuing your trip and do not know where, just a couple of hours from the capital, is Ninh Binh, one of the places you do not want to miss in your itinerary. you won’t want to miss on your itinerary.
Here we leave you with an interesting post with all the information on how to get from Hanoi to Ninh Binh by different means of transport.
From Hanoi to Sapa
Sapa remains one of the most visited sites by tourists and travelers from all over the world.
We explain how to get from Hanoi to Sapa without complications.
From Hanoi to Hue
Located in the center of Vietnam, the city of Hue was one of the most important and the remains of its imperial past are an almost compulsory stop.
If you want to travel from Hanoi to Hue, here you can find all the information.
From Hanoi to Ha Giang
There is no doubt that Ha Giang is today one of the most sought-after destinations in northern Vietnam.
If you are thinking of visiting it to make the spectacular Ha Giang Loop, we leave you with all the information on how to get to Ha Giang in this post.
From Hanoi to Hoi An
Hoi An, considered by many as the most beautiful city in Vietnam, is very well connected to the rest of the country.
To get there you will first have to get to Da Nang, in the center of the country.
To do this you can take an internal flight (about 1:30h trip) or if you are like us who like the bucolic and travel without haste, take the overnight sleeper train (lasts all night).
Once you arrive in Da Nang, we explain how to get to Hoi An easily through Da Nang , in this article.
Hanoi in 1 Day—Suggested Route
If you are passing through Hanoi and want to make the most of your time to visit its main tourist attractions, we recommend the following tour:
- Start early with a visit to the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, the One Pillar Pagoda and the Presidential Palace.
- From there, take a motorcycle cab to the Temple of Literature or Hoa Lo Prison.
- Take a lunch break and enjoy a delicious plate of Bun Cha.
- Try the famous egg coffee or coconut coffee to recharge your energy.
- Stroll around Hoan Kiem Lake and the historic center of the city.
- Visit the iconic train street for a unique experience.
- If your visit coincides with the weekend, don’t forget to stop by the night market.
- End the day with a beer in any Bia Hoi or in the lively Beer Street.
Hanoi in 2 days – Itinerary
The best way to get to know Hanoi is undoubtedly to dedicate two days of visit, to explore at leisure most of its points of interest.
First day in Hanoi
Follow the itinerary we have previously recommended, which includes the city’s main attractions such as the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, the One Pillar Pagoda, the Temple of Literature and the historic center.
Day 2 in Hanoi
- Take a free tour in English to better understand the history and culture of Hanoi, as well as to situate yourself correctly in the city.
- When it’s time to eat, don’t miss the Pho, an iconic dish that Hanoi rightly boasts, considered one of the best in Vietnam.
- Take time to explore West Lake, an area with a bohemian and relaxed atmosphere ideal for strolling.
- If you prefer something more cultural, attend the famous water puppet theater, a unique and traditional experience in the city.