{"id":3636,"date":"2023-03-17T06:54:05","date_gmt":"2023-03-17T06:54:05","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/viajarvietnam.com\/22-best-things-to-do-in-hanoi-complete-travel-guide\/"},"modified":"2026-07-17T16:11:37","modified_gmt":"2026-07-17T16:11:37","slug":"hanoi","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/viajarvietnam.com\/en\/hanoi\/","title":{"rendered":"22 best things to do in Hanoi: complete travel guide"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Hanoi is <strong>the ideal place to start or finish your trip through Vietnam<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Not only is it the country&#8217;s capital, it&#8217;s <strong>an unmissable destination<\/strong>, packed with interesting places to explore and things to do. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">You won&#8217;t tire easily in Hanoi: the motorbikes, the horns, the smells, the vendors\u2026 everything here is a stimulus. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We have to admit it&#8217;s overwhelming at first, but it soon becomes the perfect soundtrack to the start of your adventure. That&#8217;s why Hanoi is <strong>one of our favorite cities in Southeast Asia<\/strong> \u2014 a place that hooked us from the very first moment.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">To make sure you get the most out of your time in the city, we&#8217;ve put together <strong>a complete selection of the essential things to see in Hanoi in 2026<\/strong>. Though we&#8217;ll tell you now: what we like most about this city is that <strong>there&#8217;s no single right way to explore it \u2014 there are many.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">From getting lost in the Old Quarter to haggling in its markets, or simply sitting down to watch the tireless daily bustle from a tiny plastic stool while you drink an egg coffee (that surprising mix only the Vietnamese know how to get right). Hanoi always has something for every taste and every budget.<\/p><div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_86 counter-hierarchy ez-toc-counter ez-toc-custom ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<p class=\"ez-toc-title\" style=\"cursor:inherit\">In this post<\/p>\n<label for=\"ez-toc-cssicon-toggle-item-6a8238c16dd50\" class=\"ez-toc-cssicon-toggle-label\"><span class=\"ez-toc-cssicon\"><span class=\"eztoc-hide\" style=\"display:none;\">Toggle<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-icon-toggle-span\"><svg style=\"fill: #233619;color:#233619\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" class=\"list-377408\" width=\"20px\" height=\"20px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\"><path d=\"M6 6H4v2h2V6zm14 0H8v2h12V6zM4 11h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2zM4 16h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg style=\"fill: #233619;color:#233619\" class=\"arrow-unsorted-368013\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"10px\" height=\"10px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" version=\"1.2\" baseProfile=\"tiny\"><path d=\"M18.2 9.3l-6.2-6.3-6.2 6.3c-.2.2-.3.4-.3.7s.1.5.3.7c.2.2.4.3.7.3h11c.3 0 .5-.1.7-.3.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7zM5.8 14.7l6.2 6.3 6.2-6.3c.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7c-.2-.2-.4-.3-.7-.3h-11c-.3 0-.5.1-.7.3-.2.2-.3.5-.3.7s.1.5.3.7z\"\/><\/svg><\/span><\/span><\/label><input type=\"checkbox\"  id=\"ez-toc-cssicon-toggle-item-6a8238c16dd50\" checked aria-label=\"Toggle\" \/><nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1 ' ><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"https:\/\/viajarvietnam.com\/en\/hanoi\/#what_to_see_in_hanoi_in_1_day\" >What to see in Hanoi in 1 day<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/viajarvietnam.com\/en\/hanoi\/#what_to_see_in_hanoi_in_2_days\" >What to see in Hanoi in 2 days<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/viajarvietnam.com\/en\/hanoi\/#get_ready_for_your_trip_to_hanoi_%e2%9c%88%ef%b8%8f\" >Get ready for your trip to Hanoi \u2708\ufe0f<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/viajarvietnam.com\/en\/hanoi\/#1_learn_its_history_on_a_free_walking_tour_of_hanoi\" >1. Learn its history on a free walking tour of Hanoi<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"https:\/\/viajarvietnam.com\/en\/hanoi\/#2_take_a_trip_to_halong_bay\" >2. Take a trip to Halong Bay<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-6\" href=\"https:\/\/viajarvietnam.com\/en\/hanoi\/#3_watch_the_train_arrive_at_hanoi_train_street\" >3. Watch the train arrive at Hanoi Train Street<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-7\" href=\"https:\/\/viajarvietnam.com\/en\/hanoi\/#4_catch_the_water_puppet_theater\" >4. Catch the water puppet theater<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-8\" href=\"https:\/\/viajarvietnam.com\/en\/hanoi\/#5_eat_bun_cha_one_of_hanois_most_emblematic_dishes\" >5. Eat Bun Cha, one of Hanoi&#8217;s most emblematic dishes<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-9\" href=\"https:\/\/viajarvietnam.com\/en\/hanoi\/#6_try_egg_coffee\" >6. Try egg coffee<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-10\" href=\"https:\/\/viajarvietnam.com\/en\/hanoi\/#7_soak_up_the_nightlife_at_a_bia_hoi_and_see_hanoi_beer_street\" >7. Soak up the nightlife at a Bia Hoi and see Hanoi Beer Street<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-11\" href=\"https:\/\/viajarvietnam.com\/en\/hanoi\/#8_get_lost_in_the_night_market\" >8. Get lost in the night market<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-12\" href=\"https:\/\/viajarvietnam.com\/en\/hanoi\/#9_give_your_body_a_break_with_a_good_vietnamese_massage\" >9. Give your body a break with a good Vietnamese massage<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-13\" href=\"https:\/\/viajarvietnam.com\/en\/hanoi\/#10_stroll_around_hoan_kiem_lake\" >10. Stroll around Hoan Kiem lake<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-14\" href=\"https:\/\/viajarvietnam.com\/en\/hanoi\/#11_the_ho_chi_minh_mausoleum\" >11. The Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-15\" href=\"https:\/\/viajarvietnam.com\/en\/hanoi\/#12_the_temple_of_literature\" >12. The Temple of Literature<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-16\" href=\"https:\/\/viajarvietnam.com\/en\/hanoi\/#13_hoa_lo_prison\" >13. Hoa Lo Prison<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-17\" href=\"https:\/\/viajarvietnam.com\/en\/hanoi\/#14_hanois_old_quarter\" >14. Hanoi&#8217;s Old Quarter<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-18\" href=\"https:\/\/viajarvietnam.com\/en\/hanoi\/#15_the_thang_long_imperial_citadel\" >15. The Thang Long Imperial Citadel<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-19\" href=\"https:\/\/viajarvietnam.com\/en\/hanoi\/#16_the_one_pillar_pagoda_and_the_presidential_palace\" >16. The One Pillar Pagoda and the Presidential Palace<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-20\" href=\"https:\/\/viajarvietnam.com\/en\/hanoi\/#17_the_hanoi_military_history_museum\" >17. The Hanoi Military History Museum<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-21\" href=\"https:\/\/viajarvietnam.com\/en\/hanoi\/#18_the_french_quarter\" >18. The French Quarter<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-22\" href=\"https:\/\/viajarvietnam.com\/en\/hanoi\/#19_the_hanoi_opera_house\" >19. The Hanoi Opera House<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-23\" href=\"https:\/\/viajarvietnam.com\/en\/hanoi\/#20_st_josephs_cathedral\" >20. St. Joseph&#8217;s Cathedral<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-24\" href=\"https:\/\/viajarvietnam.com\/en\/hanoi\/#21_the_longest_mosaic_in_the_world\" >21. The longest mosaic in the world<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-25\" href=\"https:\/\/viajarvietnam.com\/en\/hanoi\/#22_west_lake_and_tran_quoc_pagoda\" >22. West Lake and Tran Quoc pagoda<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-26\" href=\"https:\/\/viajarvietnam.com\/en\/hanoi\/#map_of_the_main_places_to_see_in_hanoi\" >Map of the main places to see in Hanoi<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-27\" href=\"https:\/\/viajarvietnam.com\/en\/hanoi\/#what_to_eat_in_hanoi_5_essential_local_dishes\" >What to eat in Hanoi: 5 essential local dishes<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-28\" href=\"https:\/\/viajarvietnam.com\/en\/hanoi\/#where_to_stay_in_hanoi\" >Where to stay in Hanoi<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-29\" href=\"https:\/\/viajarvietnam.com\/en\/hanoi\/#how_to_get_around_hanoi\" >How to get around Hanoi<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-30\" href=\"https:\/\/viajarvietnam.com\/en\/hanoi\/#frequently_asked_questions_about_what_to_see_in_hanoi\" >Frequently asked questions about what to see in Hanoi<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Keep reading, because today we walk you through <strong>everything to do in Hanoi<\/strong> so you can make the most of your visit. Here we go!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"gb-accordion gb-accordion-d31b5e98\">\n<div class=\"gb-accordion__item VEREN1DIA gb-accordion__item-6cff75e0 gb-accordion__item-open\">\n<div role=\"button\" tabindex=\"0\" class=\"gb-accordion__toggle gb-accordion__toggle-e2c931bb gb-block-is-current\" id=\"gb-accordion-toggle-e2c931bb\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-left\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"what_to_see_in_hanoi_in_1_day\"><\/span>What to see in Hanoi in 1 day<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<span class=\"gb-accordion__toggle-icon gb-accordion__toggle-icon-c752369d\"><span class=\"gb-accordion__toggle-icon-open\"><svg aria-hidden=\"true\" viewBox=\"0 0 256 256\"><rect width=\"256\" height=\"256\" fill=\"none\"><\/rect><polyline points=\"208 96 128 176 48 96\" fill=\"none\" stroke=\"currentColor\" stroke-linecap=\"round\" stroke-linejoin=\"round\" stroke-width=\"16\"><\/polyline><\/svg><\/span><span class=\"gb-accordion__toggle-icon-close\"><svg aria-hidden=\"true\" viewBox=\"0 0 256 256\"><rect width=\"256\" height=\"256\" fill=\"none\"><\/rect><polyline points=\"48 160 128 80 208 160\" fill=\"none\" stroke=\"currentColor\" stroke-linecap=\"round\" stroke-linejoin=\"round\" stroke-width=\"16\"><\/polyline><\/svg><\/span><\/span>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"gb-accordion__content gb-accordion__content-4de9c4fd\" id=\"gb-accordion-content-4de9c4fd\">\n<div class=\"gb-element-27eeaf1c\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you&#8217;re passing through Hanoi and want to make the most of your time seeing its main sights, <strong>we recommend the following route:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Start early with a visit to the <strong>Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum<\/strong>, the <strong>One Pillar Pagoda<\/strong> and the <strong>Presidential Palace<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>From there, take a motorbike taxi to the <strong>Temple of Literature<\/strong> or <strong>Hoa Lo Prison<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Break for lunch and enjoy a delicious plate of <strong>Bun Cha<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Try the famous <strong>egg coffee<\/strong> or <strong>coconut coffee<\/strong> to recharge.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Stroll around <strong>Hoan Kiem lake<\/strong> and the historic center.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Visit the iconic <strong>train street<\/strong> for a one-of-a-kind experience.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>If your visit falls on a weekend, don&#8217;t forget to drop by the <strong>night market<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>End the day with a beer at any <strong>Bia Hoi<\/strong> or on the lively <strong>Beer Street<\/strong>.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"gb-accordion__item gb-accordion__item-7af7465c gb-accordion__item-open\">\n<div role=\"button\" tabindex=\"0\" class=\"gb-accordion__toggle gb-accordion__toggle-d0dc1900 gb-block-is-current\" id=\"gb-accordion-toggle-d0dc1900\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-left\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"what_to_see_in_hanoi_in_2_days\"><\/span>What to see in Hanoi in 2 days<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<span class=\"gb-accordion__toggle-icon gb-accordion__toggle-icon-c04de9ee\"><span class=\"gb-accordion__toggle-icon-open\"><svg aria-hidden=\"true\" viewBox=\"0 0 256 256\"><rect width=\"256\" height=\"256\" fill=\"none\"><\/rect><polyline points=\"208 96 128 176 48 96\" fill=\"none\" stroke=\"currentColor\" stroke-linecap=\"round\" stroke-linejoin=\"round\" stroke-width=\"16\"><\/polyline><\/svg><\/span><span class=\"gb-accordion__toggle-icon-close\"><svg aria-hidden=\"true\" viewBox=\"0 0 256 256\"><rect width=\"256\" height=\"256\" fill=\"none\"><\/rect><polyline points=\"48 160 128 80 208 160\" fill=\"none\" stroke=\"currentColor\" stroke-linecap=\"round\" stroke-linejoin=\"round\" stroke-width=\"16\"><\/polyline><\/svg><\/span><\/span>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"gb-accordion__content gb-accordion__content-69b903af\" id=\"gb-accordion-content-69b903af\">\n<div class=\"gb-element-2a44dc6d\">\n<p class=\"has-text-align-left wp-block-paragraph\">The <strong>best way to get to know Hanoi is without doubt to give it two days<\/strong>, so you can explore most of its points of interest at a relaxed pace.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">First day in Hanoi<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Follow the itinerary we recommended above, which covers the city&#8217;s main attractions such as the <strong>Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum<\/strong>, the <strong>One Pillar Pagoda<\/strong>, the <strong>Temple of Literature<\/strong> and the historic center.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Second day in Hanoi<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Take a <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.civitatis.com\/en\/hanoi\/free-walking-tour\/?aid=11891\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">free walking tour<\/a> <\/strong>to better understand Hanoi&#8217;s history and culture, and to get your bearings in the city.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>At lunchtime, don&#8217;t miss the <strong>Pho<\/strong>, an iconic dish Hanoi rightly boasts about \u2014 considered among the best in Vietnam.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Spend some time exploring <strong>West Lake<\/strong>, an area with a bohemian, laid-back atmosphere that&#8217;s perfect for a stroll.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>If you&#8217;d prefer something more cultural, catch the famous <strong>water puppet theater<\/strong>, a unique and traditional experience in the city.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<section class=\"gb-element-758d6f34 vn-prepara-panel\" aria-label=\"Essential resources for Hanoi.\">\n<h2 class=\"gb-text gb-text-386784b5\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"get_ready_for_your_trip_to_hanoi_%e2%9c%88%ef%b8%8f\"><\/span>Get ready for your trip to Hanoi \u2708\ufe0f<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"gb-element-0d464d70\">\n<div class=\"gb-element-9220c7d6\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>FREE TOUR<\/strong> \ud83d\udc49 Don&#8217;t miss the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.civitatis.com\/en\/hanoi\/free-walking-tour\/?aid=11891\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">best free tour in Hanoi.<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"gb-element-d4f12136\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>1-DAY HALONG BAY TOUR<\/strong> \ud83d\udc49 Our favorite <a href=\"https:\/\/www.getyourguide.com\/hanoi-l205\/hanoi-crucero-de-un-dia-por-la-bahia-de-ha-long-natacion-comida-kayak-t422336\/?partner_id=RY2YHEV&amp;utm_medium=travel_agent&amp;cmp=halong\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">from Hanoi.<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"gb-element-4a48e739\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>2D\/1N HALONG BAY CRUISE<\/strong> \ud83d\udc49 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.getyourguide.com\/hanoi-l205\/hanoi-crucero-de-2-dias-por-las-bahias-de-ha-long-y-lan-ha-con-balcon-t205941\/?partner_id=RY2YHEV&amp;utm_medium=travel_agent&amp;cmp=halong\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">The one we like most<\/a> from Hanoi.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"gb-element-468cb24d\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>INSURANCE<\/strong> \ud83d\udc49 5% off <a href=\"https:\/\/heymondo.com\/?utm_medium=Afiliado&amp;utm_source=AVENTURATEAVIAJAR&amp;utm_campaign=PRINCIPAL&amp;cod_descuento=AVENTURATEAVIAJAR&amp;ag_campaign=VIAJARPORVIETNAM&amp;agencia=7b8661798dc1dcb30588ad3dc792cc38ef05\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">our recommended travel insurance<\/a> for Vietnam.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"gb-element-9b548109\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>SIM CARD<\/strong> \ud83d\udc49 Stay connected throughout your trip with an <a href=\"https:\/\/holafly.sjv.io\/dyKWyk\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">eSIM for Vietnam<\/a>.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"gb-element-5563c5d1\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>TRANSPORT <\/strong> \ud83d\udc49 Book your <a href=\"https:\/\/12go.asia\/en\/?z=4018868\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">transfers and transport from Hanoi<\/a> in advance.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/section>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"1_learn_its_history_on_a_free_walking_tour_of_hanoi\"><\/span>1. Learn its history on a free walking tour of Hanoi<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Without doubt, <strong>one of the best ways to enjoy Hanoi<\/strong> is getting lost in its alleyways and letting yourself be carried along by the explosion of flavors, smells and sounds that surround you in every corner of the old town.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you&#8217;re the type who likes to go deeper and really get to know the places you visit, <strong>we recommend <a href=\"https:\/\/www.civitatis.com\/en\/hanoi\/free-walking-tour\/?aid=11891\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">taking this free walking tour<\/a>. <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It&#8217;s an ideal introduction to Vietnamese culture and <strong>it takes you through the most iconic spots of Hanoi&#8217;s historic center<\/strong>, while you pick up curious, surprising details about the reality of the city and the country.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Best of all, it&#8217;s <strong>completely free<\/strong> \u2014 though if you enjoy it, it&#8217;s always good to leave a tip.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That said, we recommend booking ahead, as it tends to fill up.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Whether alone or with company, wandering Hanoi&#8217;s old town is an experience you shouldn&#8217;t miss. Dive into the city&#8217;s vibrant chaos, sit down at any of its hundreds of caf\u00e9s on their little stools and watch everyday life unfold around you. Every minute in Hanoi has something special about it, so just enjoy it and let yourself go.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"2_take_a_trip_to_halong_bay\"><\/span>2. Take a trip to Halong Bay<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If there&#8217;s one <strong>unmissable place to see from Hanoi, it&#8217;s Halong Bay<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Just two hours from the capital, <a href=\"https:\/\/viajarvietnam.com\/en\/halong-bay\/\">Halong Bay<\/a> is considered one of the natural wonders of the world, which has made it an absolute must-visit destination.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">To see it, you can make your own way to the Hai Phong port or to Cat Ba island and book a cruise from there \u2014 but <strong>the most popular option for visiting the bay is booking an organized tour from the capital.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Here&#8217;s <a href=\"https:\/\/www.getyourguide.com\/hanoi-l205\/hanoi-full-day-halong-bay-cruise-with-swimming-kayak-tour-t422336\/?partner_id=RY2YHEV&amp;utm_medium=travel_agent&amp;cmp=hanoi\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">the 1-day option,<\/a> and at this other link <a href=\"https:\/\/www.getyourguide.com\/hanoi-l205\/hanoi-2-day-5-star-lan-ha-bay-cruise-t205941\/?partner_id=RY2YHEV&amp;utm_medium=travel_agent&amp;cmp=hanoi\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">the two-day option<\/a> we recommend.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">These tours normally include transfers from the capital, the cruise itself, meals and entry to the various spots in the bay you visit \u2014 which depend on the cruise you choose. That makes them a perfect way to enjoy the place, and <strong>one of the best things to do near Hanoi.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"771\" src=\"https:\/\/viajarvietnam.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/halong-bay-hanoi-1024x771.webp\" alt=\"halong bay hanoi vietnam\" class=\"wp-image-2484\" srcset=\"https:\/\/viajarvietnam.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/halong-bay-hanoi-1024x771.webp 1024w, https:\/\/viajarvietnam.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/halong-bay-hanoi-300x226.webp 300w, https:\/\/viajarvietnam.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/halong-bay-hanoi-768x579.webp 768w, https:\/\/viajarvietnam.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/halong-bay-hanoi.jpg 1026w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-left\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"3_watch_the_train_arrive_at_hanoi_train_street\"><\/span>3. Watch the train arrive at Hanoi Train Street<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We call it a&#8221;street&#8221; though it really isn&#8217;t one, because this place is simply part of the <strong>railway line that cuts through Hanoi<\/strong>, leaving in its wake picturesque scenes of <strong>caf\u00e9s and houses that live literally with the train in their face. <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Hanoi&#8217;s train street is the city&#8217;s Instagrammable spot par excellence, and one you probably won&#8217;t want to skip on your visit to the capital.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you like taking <strong>the photo op to the max<\/strong>, a visit here will definitely stir up your feeds.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Although it was partially closed to the public, it&#8217;s still perfectly visitable. These days you normally get in <strong>by ordering something at one of the bars or caf\u00e9s<\/strong> lining the tracks, with drinks from around <strong>30,000 VND (~US$1.15)<\/strong>. We explain in detail how to visit <a href=\"https:\/\/viajarvietnam.com\/en\/hanoi\/hanoi-train-street\/\">Hanoi&#8217;s train street<\/a> in this post. <\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"768\" src=\"https:\/\/viajarvietnam.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/calle-de-tren-hanoi-1024x768.webp\" alt=\"la calle del tren de hanoi\" class=\"wp-image-2393\" srcset=\"https:\/\/viajarvietnam.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/calle-de-tren-hanoi-1024x768.webp 1024w, https:\/\/viajarvietnam.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/calle-de-tren-hanoi-300x225.webp 300w, https:\/\/viajarvietnam.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/calle-de-tren-hanoi-768x576.webp 768w, https:\/\/viajarvietnam.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/calle-de-tren-hanoi.webp 1026w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-left\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"4_catch_the_water_puppet_theater\"><\/span>4. Catch the water puppet theater<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">In Vietnam, one of the most traditional art forms is <strong>water puppet theater<\/strong>. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This deeply traditional kind of show<strong> <\/strong>originally comes from the country&#8217;s farming culture, where rice is the main crop, and <strong>where performers once stood knee-deep in water, staging their puppet shows on the surface of the rice paddy.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Over time, this art form spread across the country, and today it&#8217;s part of traditional festivals in many places \u2014 now staged in theaters.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">One of its finest examples is the <strong>Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre<\/strong>, on the shore of Hoan Kiem lake in the heart of Hanoi&#8217;s old town, where you can enjoy these shows, held without interruption 365 days a year.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Do <strong>book in advance<\/strong>, though, as showtimes are limited.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">The Thang Long puppet theater: hours and prices<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Showtimes<\/strong>: Daily at 4:10 pm, 5:20 pm, 6:30 pm and 8:00 pm.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Ticket price<\/strong>: between <strong>150,000 and 200,000 VND (~US$5.80-7.70).<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>You can buy it at the theater itself or <a href=\"https:\/\/www.getyourguide.com\/hanoi-l205\/hanoi-water-puppet-tickets-with-hotel-delivery-t62912\/?partner_id=RY2YHEV&#038;utm_medium=travel_agent\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\" target=\"_blank\">online through this link.<\/a><\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"640\" src=\"https:\/\/viajarvietnam.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/teatro-marionetas-de-hanoi-1024x640.webp\" alt=\"teatro marionetas de agua en hanoi\" class=\"wp-image-2410\" srcset=\"https:\/\/viajarvietnam.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/teatro-marionetas-de-hanoi-1024x640.webp 1024w, https:\/\/viajarvietnam.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/teatro-marionetas-de-hanoi-300x187.webp 300w, https:\/\/viajarvietnam.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/teatro-marionetas-de-hanoi-768x480.webp 768w, https:\/\/viajarvietnam.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/teatro-marionetas-de-hanoi.webp 1026w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"buncha\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"5_eat_bun_cha_one_of_hanois_most_emblematic_dishes\"><\/span>5. Eat Bun Cha, one of Hanoi&#8217;s most emblematic dishes<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>B\u00fan Ch\u1ea3<\/strong> is a dish typical of Hanoi, which you&#8217;ll also find in other parts of northern Vietnam. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It&#8217;s without doubt <strong>one of our favorite meals in Vietnam<\/strong>, and probably one of the most filling.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The dish is basically a kind of broth to which grilled pork patties and pork belly are added, along with some vegetables \u2014 usually bamboo.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">On the side you get thin rice noodles, known as <em>b\u00fan<\/em>, and a little basket of all kinds of fresh herbs to add to taste.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">As if that weren&#8217;t enough, on the table you&#8217;ll usually find various condiments to add \u2014 vinegar, garlic and the green chili that locals tend to use in generous amounts to give the dish more flavor.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">You can also order fried Vietnamese spring rolls on the side, standard at most restaurants serving this dish.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">How to eat B\u00fan Ch\u1ea3<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">One of the challenges many Westerners face on a first visit to Vietnam is how to eat the country&#8217;s sophisticated dishes. So you don&#8217;t get caught out, here&#8217;s the traditional way to eat <strong>B\u00fan Ch\u1ea3 H\u00e0 N\u1ed9i<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Take the bowl with the meat and the broth.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Add garlic, chili and pickled vinegar to taste.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Add whichever herbs you like best, tearing them into small pieces.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Keep adding noodles and dunking them in.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Enjoy the flavors.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Where to eat it<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you want a sure thing, our favorite is <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/maps.app.goo.gl\/oB8h3ZXY4TvKi8Dq5\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">B\u00fan ch\u1ea3 22 ng\u00f5 Huy\u1ec7n<\/a><\/strong>, right in the old town (Hoan Kiem). A full plate for around <strong>50,000 VND (~US$1.90)<\/strong>. <strong>In our view, eating it at one of the many street restaurants perched on plastic stools is part of the experience<\/strong> \u2014 places with tablecloths don&#8217;t do it justice.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image alignwide size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"525\" src=\"https:\/\/viajarvietnam.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/bun-cha-hanoi-1.webp\" alt=\"plato de bun cha, una de las comidas m\u00e1s tipicas de Hanoi\" class=\"wp-image-3411\" srcset=\"https:\/\/viajarvietnam.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/bun-cha-hanoi-1.webp 800w, https:\/\/viajarvietnam.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/bun-cha-hanoi-1-300x197.webp 300w, https:\/\/viajarvietnam.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/bun-cha-hanoi-1-768x504.webp 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"egg\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"6_try_egg_coffee\"><\/span>6. Try egg coffee<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Yes, you heard right: egg. And before your Western culinary prejudices start telling you it can&#8217;t possibly be a good combination, we&#8217;ll say it now \u2014 <strong>it&#8217;s going to surprise you enormously.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">As the world&#8217;s second-largest coffee exporter, Vietnam is a country where coffee is part of daily life and of Vietnamese society itself.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Hanoi is the perfect example of this coffee culture and the ideal place to try some of the varieties that are harder to find elsewhere in the country, like egg coffee, yogurt coffee or coconut coffee (our favorite).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Egg coffee originated at <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/cafegiang.vn\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Cafe Giang<\/a><\/strong>, whose founder had to improvise with whipped egg yolk when milk was scarce. <strong>The place is still open today<\/strong> and, although it&#8217;s now a tourist magnet, it&#8217;s still worth visiting for the history. Here&#8217;s a complete article on <a href=\"https:\/\/viajarvietnam.com\/en\/hanoi\/best-cafes-in-hanoi\/\">the best caf\u00e9s in Hanoi<\/a> and the types of coffee you&#8217;ll find in the capital.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"576\" src=\"https:\/\/viajarvietnam.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/cafe-de-huevo-hanoi-1-1024x576.webp\" alt=\"cafe de huevo en hanoi\" class=\"wp-image-2404\" srcset=\"https:\/\/viajarvietnam.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/cafe-de-huevo-hanoi-1-1024x576.webp 1024w, https:\/\/viajarvietnam.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/cafe-de-huevo-hanoi-1-300x169.webp 300w, https:\/\/viajarvietnam.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/cafe-de-huevo-hanoi-1-768x432.webp 768w, https:\/\/viajarvietnam.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/cafe-de-huevo-hanoi-1.webp 1026w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"7_soak_up_the_nightlife_at_a_bia_hoi_and_see_hanoi_beer_street\"><\/span>7. Soak up the nightlife at a Bia Hoi and see Hanoi Beer Street<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>A stop at a Bia Hoi<\/strong> is an essential part of Hanoi nightlife. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Bia Hoi, which literally <strong>translates as&#8221;fresh beer&#8221;<\/strong>, is a light beer brewed daily that contains no preservatives, which means it spoils quickly.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It&#8217;s served in small taverns of the same name all over the city, and it&#8217;s <strong>hugely popular in Hanoi.<\/strong> Its <strong>low price<\/strong> (around <strong>15,000 VND, about US$0.60<\/strong> a glass), its <strong>alcohol content<\/strong> (3-4%) and its <strong>mild flavor<\/strong> (especially for Western drinkers used to fuller, stronger beers) have made it <strong>one of the most popular things in Hanoi. <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you love beer, don&#8217;t hesitate to drop into any Bia Hoi in the capital, take a seat on their plastic stools, enjoy a cold one and watch the city&#8217;s everyday life go by.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Beer Street<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Beer Street<\/strong>, officially known as <strong>Ta Hien Street<\/strong>, is one of the liveliest, most vibrant streets in Hanoi.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It sits in the heart of the old town and is known for its buzzing nightlife, where locals and tourists gather to eat, drink and party every day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Weekends are its peak, but you&#8217;ll find atmosphere almost any night of the week. In the vein of other party streets like Bui Vien in Ho Chi Minh City, if going out is your thing, this is the ideal place for a good time.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"768\" src=\"https:\/\/viajarvietnam.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/beer-street-hanoi-1024x768.webp\" alt=\"hanoi beer street\" class=\"wp-image-2413\" srcset=\"https:\/\/viajarvietnam.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/beer-street-hanoi-1024x768.webp 1024w, https:\/\/viajarvietnam.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/beer-street-hanoi-300x225.webp 300w, https:\/\/viajarvietnam.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/beer-street-hanoi-768x576.webp 768w, https:\/\/viajarvietnam.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/beer-street-hanoi.webp 1026w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"8_get_lost_in_the_night_market\"><\/span>8. Get lost in the night market <span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If your visit to the capital falls on a weekend, you&#8217;re in luck: you&#8217;ll be able to explore the <strong>night market<\/strong>, right in <strong>Hanoi&#8217;s old quarter<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It stretches <strong>from the top of Hoan Kiem lake<\/strong> almost all the way to the Dong Xuan daytime market.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">You&#8217;ll find it open every weekend: <strong>Friday, Saturday and Sunday from around 7:00 pm<\/strong>, when the vendors start setting up their stalls.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">There you&#8217;ll find all kinds of souvenirs, clothes, food and an endless array of trinkets that will certainly help you round out those gifts for family and friends without spending a fortune.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">The Dong Xuan daytime market<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you&#8217;re the type who likes getting into the thick of local life, this market is one of those places in Hanoi you can&#8217;t miss if you want to understand how people here really live.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Inside you&#8217;ll find a multitude of goods: clothes, shoes, appliances, toys and fabrics. <strong>It&#8217;s a market geared toward the local economy rather than tourism<\/strong>, which is exactly why losing yourself in it for a while is quite the experience.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">And if the inside is a world of its own, <strong>along one of its outer streets runs a wet market of vegetables, fruit, meat, nuts and more<\/strong> \u2014 where you can marvel at the sheer variety of products sold here every day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Open daily from 8:00 am to 8:00 pm.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>If you have a weak stomach or you&#8217;re sensitive to strong smells, better skip it.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"684\" src=\"https:\/\/viajarvietnam.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/hanoi-night-market-1024x684.webp\" alt=\"mercado nocturno en hanoi\" class=\"wp-image-2426\" srcset=\"https:\/\/viajarvietnam.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/hanoi-night-market-1024x684.webp 1024w, https:\/\/viajarvietnam.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/hanoi-night-market-300x200.webp 300w, https:\/\/viajarvietnam.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/hanoi-night-market-768x513.webp 768w, https:\/\/viajarvietnam.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/hanoi-night-market.webp 1026w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"9_give_your_body_a_break_with_a_good_vietnamese_massage\"><\/span>9. Give your body a break with a good Vietnamese massage<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you love relaxing and treating your body well, you&#8217;re in luck, because Vietnam is one of the countries with the best value-for-money massages in the world.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>In Vietnam, massage is part of family<\/strong> and social culture, so you&#8217;ll find salons offering these services on almost every corner.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Traditional Vietnamese massage blends traditional techniques with influences from Chinese medicine, focusing on deep pressure and the manipulation of specific points on the body to relieve everyday stress.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Trying a <strong>Vietnamese massage<\/strong> is one of the most relaxing, revitalizing experiences you can have during your visit to Hanoi \u2014 or any other city in the country.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Among our favorite massages in Hanoi is without doubt <a href=\"https:\/\/omamorispa.com\/\">Omamori Spa<\/a>, where you&#8217;ll get <strong>a spectacular massage at the hands of blind masseurs<\/strong>. And if you prefer a foot massage, one of the best we&#8217;ve experienced is at T\u00e2m Spa, 38 H\u00e0ng B\u00f4ng.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Prices normally start at around <strong>250,000 VND (~US$9.60)<\/strong> for a full-body massage and <strong>100,000 VND (~US$3.80)<\/strong> for a foot massage.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">So wherever you go, <strong>don&#8217;t think twice: after a long day of sightseeing around the city, reward your body with a good Vietnamese massage.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"465\" src=\"https:\/\/viajarvietnam.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/masaje-vietnamita-hanoi-1024x465.webp\" alt=\"masaje vietnamita en hanoi\" class=\"wp-image-2423\" srcset=\"https:\/\/viajarvietnam.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/masaje-vietnamita-hanoi-1024x465.webp 1024w, https:\/\/viajarvietnam.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/masaje-vietnamita-hanoi-300x136.webp 300w, https:\/\/viajarvietnam.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/masaje-vietnamita-hanoi-768x349.webp 768w, https:\/\/viajarvietnam.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/masaje-vietnamita-hanoi.webp 1100w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"10_stroll_around_hoan_kiem_lake\"><\/span>10. Stroll around Hoan Kiem lake<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Hoan Kiem lake is one of the emblematic places to see in Hanoi and <strong>an oasis of calm amid the noise<\/strong>. It&#8217;s the ideal spot for a walk and a recharge by the water, while you learn the story behind it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Formerly known as the emerald lake<\/strong> thanks to its green water all year round, it changed its name in the 15th century to <strong>Hoan Kiem Lake<\/strong> (Lake of the Returned Sword). <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Legend has it that emperor Le Loi returned a magic sword to a turtle after defeating the Ming dynasty.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We tell the full story <a href=\"https:\/\/viajarvietnam.com\/en\/hanoi\/hoan-kiem-lake\/\">here.<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>The lake has long been home to a species of <a href=\"https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Yangtze_giant_softshell_turtle\">giant turtle<\/a><\/strong>, considered in Vietnamese culture to be sacred creatures symbolizing longevity, wisdom and good fortune.<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1026\" height=\"684\" src=\"https:\/\/viajarvietnam.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/lago-hoan-kiem.webp\" alt=\"lago de hoan kien en hanoi\" class=\"wp-image-2361\" srcset=\"https:\/\/viajarvietnam.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/lago-hoan-kiem.webp 1026w, https:\/\/viajarvietnam.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/lago-hoan-kiem-300x200.webp 300w, https:\/\/viajarvietnam.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/lago-hoan-kiem-1024x683.webp 1024w, https:\/\/viajarvietnam.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/lago-hoan-kiem-768x512.webp 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1026px) 100vw, 1026px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-left\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"11_the_ho_chi_minh_mausoleum\"><\/span>11. The Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">One of the essential places to see in Hanoi is the <a href=\"https:\/\/viajarvietnam.com\/en\/hanoi\/ho-chi-minh-mausoleum\/\">Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum<\/a> \u2014 no visit to Hanoi is complete without paying respects to the man considered the father of modern Vietnam.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><a href=\"https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Ho_Chi_Minh\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">Ho Chi Minh<\/a> is far more than a patriotic symbol for many Vietnamese<strong>,<\/strong> and his remains are a place of pilgrimage visited by thousands of locals and tourists every year. <strong>In the vein of other communist mausoleums such as Lenin&#8217;s, stepping inside is quite the experience<\/strong> \u2014 one you shouldn&#8217;t miss if you&#8217;re visiting Hanoi.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Although in his will <strong>President Ho Chi Minh expressed his wish to be cremated and to have his ashes spread across the country&#8217;s three regions (north, center and south)<\/strong>, the government decided to embalm his body and build a mausoleum so that people could come and visit him.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Since it opened in 1975, it&#8217;s been one of the most visited places in Vietnam, especially by school groups and families. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The exterior of the mausoleum is a structure of gray granite and marble columns. Inside, <strong>what strikes you most \u2014 beyond the solemnity and the cold \u2014 is how well preserved President Ho Chi Minh&#8217;s body is<\/strong>, with four soldiers standing guard in the room at all times.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Visiting tips:<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Opening hours<\/strong>: Open every day except Mondays.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Entry<\/strong>: Free.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Appropriate dress is required.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Get up early to avoid the heat and the lines.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"576\" src=\"https:\/\/viajarvietnam.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/mausoleo-ho-chi-minh-hanoi-vietnam-1024x576.webp\" alt=\"mausoleo de ho chi minh en hanoi\" class=\"wp-image-2365\" srcset=\"https:\/\/viajarvietnam.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/mausoleo-ho-chi-minh-hanoi-vietnam-1024x576.webp 1024w, https:\/\/viajarvietnam.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/mausoleo-ho-chi-minh-hanoi-vietnam-300x169.webp 300w, https:\/\/viajarvietnam.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/mausoleo-ho-chi-minh-hanoi-vietnam-768x432.webp 768w, https:\/\/viajarvietnam.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/mausoleo-ho-chi-minh-hanoi-vietnam.webp 1026w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-left\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"12_the_temple_of_literature\"><\/span>12. The Temple of Literature<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Another of the things to do in Hanoi is walking through the gates of the <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/viajarvietnam.com\/en\/hanoi\/temple-of-literature\/\">Temple of Literature<\/a><\/strong> to see what was once <strong>Vietnam&#8217;s first university<\/strong>, the training ground for much of the country&#8217;s scholarly elite.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Its history reaches back to 1070, when it&#8217;s believed to have been founded by emperor Ly Thanh Tong in honor of the Chinese philosopher Confucius<strong>.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A few years later, his son established the <strong>Imperial Academy<\/strong> here, where royals, nobles, princes and bureaucrats studied the doctrines of Confucius and received their academic training.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Today it&#8217;s <strong>one of the best places to visit in Hanoi<\/strong>. Changed and weathered though it is, it&#8217;s well preserved, and you can spend a good while wandering its courtyards and interiors, taking in its beautiful architecture and learning how the country&#8217;s leading intellectuals were educated after passing gruelling exams and trials.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Despite what its name suggests, the Temple of Literature isn&#8217;t really a religious site these days, but a purely touristic one.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Visitor information<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Hours:<\/strong> 8:00 am to 5:00 pm, daily.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Price: <\/strong>70,000 VND (~US$2.70) <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Audio guide<\/strong> available for an extra 50,000 VND (~US$1.90)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"768\" src=\"https:\/\/viajarvietnam.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/templo-de-la-literatura-hanoi-1-1024x768.webp\" alt=\"templo de la literatura en hanoi\" class=\"wp-image-2370\" srcset=\"https:\/\/viajarvietnam.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/templo-de-la-literatura-hanoi-1-1024x768.webp 1024w, https:\/\/viajarvietnam.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/templo-de-la-literatura-hanoi-1-300x225.webp 300w, https:\/\/viajarvietnam.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/templo-de-la-literatura-hanoi-1-768x576.webp 768w, https:\/\/viajarvietnam.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/templo-de-la-literatura-hanoi-1.jpg 1026w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-left\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"13_hoa_lo_prison\"><\/span>13. Hoa Lo Prison<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you&#8217;re interested in digging deeper into Vietnam&#8217;s history and its turbulent, difficult past, Hoa Lo Prison is <strong>one of the places you can&#8217;t miss in Hanoi.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Also known \u2014 sarcastically \u2014 as the&#8221;Hanoi Hilton&#8221;, it was <strong>originally built by the French colonial government<\/strong> in the late 19th century to imprison Vietnamese political prisoners, and was later used by the North Vietnamese government to hold American prisoners of war during the Vietnam War. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Today, the&#8221;Maison Centrale&#8221; has become a museum telling the story of the prison and its temporary inhabitants. If you want to better understand the <strong>dark stories<\/strong> hidden behind the thick walls of <a href=\"https:\/\/viajarvietnam.com\/en\/hanoi\/hoa-lo-prison\/\">Hoa Lo Prison<\/a>, don&#8217;t hesitate to visit this place \u2014 bracing and moving in equal measure.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Visitor information<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Hours:<\/strong> 8:00 am to 5:00 pm, daily.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Price:<\/strong> 50,000 VND (~US$1.90) <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Audio guide<\/strong> available for an extra 100,000 VND (~US$3.80) \u2014 a little pricey, but worth it for the historical context.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"479\" src=\"https:\/\/viajarvietnam.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/Hoa-Lo-Prison-1024x479.webp\" alt=\"prision de hoa lo hanoi\" class=\"wp-image-2374\" srcset=\"https:\/\/viajarvietnam.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/Hoa-Lo-Prison-1024x479.webp 1024w, https:\/\/viajarvietnam.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/Hoa-Lo-Prison-300x140.webp 300w, https:\/\/viajarvietnam.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/Hoa-Lo-Prison-768x359.webp 768w, https:\/\/viajarvietnam.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/Hoa-Lo-Prison.webp 1026w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-left\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"14_hanois_old_quarter\"><\/span>14. Hanoi&#8217;s Old Quarter<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Hanoi&#8217;s historic center is one of the <strong>unmissable places on any trip to Vietnam<\/strong>, and the ideal spot to stay if it&#8217;s your first time in the city.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Old Quarter is <strong>a full-blown labyrinth of ancient streets<\/strong> where tourists, locals, restaurants, shops of every kind, dozens of travel agencies and a caf\u00e9 on almost every corner all blend together. We&#8217;d go so far as to say that <strong>almost anything<\/strong> that crosses your mind can be found in Hanoi&#8217;s Old Quarter.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">The history of Hanoi&#8217;s Old Quarter<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Hanoi&#8217;s history <strong>goes back to the 11th century, when emperor Ly Thai To decided to move the capital from Hoa Lu (Ninh Binh) to Hanoi<\/strong>, drawing in with the court a multitude of artisans from every region, who populated the area and organized themselves into guilds.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">As <strong>legend<\/strong> tells it, the emperor dreamed of a dragon rising majestically to the sky from the Red River. Reading the dream as a divine sign of prosperity and growth, he decided to move the capital from Hoa Lu in Ninh Binh to what we know today as Hanoi. Inspired by his vision, he named the new capital Thang Long, meaning&#8221;the ascending dragon&#8221;.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The streets of the Old Quarter are still organized by guild to this day. Some of the main ones you can visit:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Hang Bac Street: <\/strong>specializing in gold and silver jewelry, and where you can exchange money <a href=\"https:\/\/viajarvietnam.com\/en\/where-to-exchange-money-in-vietnam\/\">at the best rate in the city.<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Hang Ma Street: <\/strong>specializing in offerings, decorations and toys, mainly for the Mid-Autumn Festival and Christmas.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Hang Buom Street:<\/strong> specializing in sweets and jams for the Tet festival.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Hang Thiec Street:<\/strong> with metal goods of every kind.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Lan Ong Street:<\/strong> specializing in traditional medicine and all sorts of natural remedies \u2014 walking down it is a treat for the nose.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">While many streets have evolved over time and no longer keep their original features, some have managed to preserve their charm. Among them, you can visit a few that are open to the public, such as the Ma May Ancient House (No. 87, Ma May street).<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"615\" src=\"https:\/\/viajarvietnam.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/casco-antiguo-hanoi-1024x615.webp\" alt=\"el barrio antiguo de hanoi\" class=\"wp-image-2378\" srcset=\"https:\/\/viajarvietnam.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/casco-antiguo-hanoi-1024x615.webp 1024w, https:\/\/viajarvietnam.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/casco-antiguo-hanoi-300x180.webp 300w, https:\/\/viajarvietnam.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/casco-antiguo-hanoi-768x461.webp 768w, https:\/\/viajarvietnam.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/casco-antiguo-hanoi.webp 1026w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"15_the_thang_long_imperial_citadel\"><\/span>15. The Thang Long Imperial Citadel<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Another of the things to see in Hanoi is the <strong>Thang Long Imperial Citadel<\/strong>, declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2010.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Built in the vein of other great courts such as Beijing&#8217;s Forbidden City, <a href=\"https:\/\/viajarvietnam.com\/en\/hanoi\/thang-long-imperial-citadel\/\">the Thang Long Imperial Citadel<\/a> carries us back to a not-so-distant past, when Vietnam was still ruled by emperors and courts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>With origins reaching back to the 7th century<\/strong>, the first structure was a fortress used by the Chinese who controlled much of what is now northern Vietnam \u2014 though it wasn&#8217;t until the 10th century that Thang Long was built on this very spot.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Although <strong>the complex you see today has little in common with the original citadel<\/strong>, owing to the many destructions and reconstructions over the years, it remains a significant symbol of Vietnamese history. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Inside, beyond the numerous ruins, you&#8217;ll also find <strong>the flag tower<\/strong>, another of Hanoi&#8217;s best-known symbols.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">In <strong>1802, emperor Gia Long, founder of the Nguyen dynasty, moved Vietnam&#8217;s capital from Hanoi to Hue<\/strong>, bringing this place&#8217;s role as the center of imperial power to an end.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Visitor information<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Hours:<\/strong> 8:00 am to 5:00 pm, Tuesday to Sunday (closed Mondays).<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Price:<\/strong> 100,000 VND (~US$3.80).<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Free map at the ticket office; the explanations in each area are only in Vietnamese and English.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" src=\"https:\/\/viajarvietnam.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/Thang-Long-ciudadela-hanoi-1024x683.webp\" alt=\"ciudadela imperial de thang long hanoi\" class=\"wp-image-2381\" srcset=\"https:\/\/viajarvietnam.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/Thang-Long-ciudadela-hanoi-1024x683.webp 1024w, https:\/\/viajarvietnam.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/Thang-Long-ciudadela-hanoi-300x200.webp 300w, https:\/\/viajarvietnam.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/Thang-Long-ciudadela-hanoi-768x512.webp 768w, https:\/\/viajarvietnam.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/Thang-Long-ciudadela-hanoi.webp 1026w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-left\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"16_the_one_pillar_pagoda_and_the_presidential_palace\"><\/span>16. The One Pillar Pagoda and the Presidential Palace<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Two places that are <strong>the perfect complement to your walk around the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum<\/strong>, given how close they are \u2014 and one of the main things to do in Hanoi in a day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">The One Pillar Pagoda<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The <strong>One Pillar Pagoda<\/strong> was originally built during the 11th century by emperor Ly Thai Tong, though it was completely destroyed during the Vietnam War. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That said, this very special place has been fully restored today, based on its original and unique design, which makes it a more than curious spot to see during your stay.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Open Tuesday to Sunday from 7:00 am to 6:00 pm.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Free entry<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">The Presidential Palace<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The <strong>Presidential Palace<\/strong> sits very close to the One Pillar Pagoda. You&#8217;ll come across it on your way out of the <a href=\"https:\/\/viajarvietnam.com\/en\/hanoi\/ho-chi-minh-mausoleum\/\">Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum<\/a>, and it&#8217;s an interesting addition to that visit \u2014 it&#8217;s part of the same complex these days.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It was built in the early 20th century as the presidential residence of the Governor-General of French Indochina and, naturally, designed in a European style \u2014 the colonial influence of that era.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">After 1954, <strong>it became President Ho Chi Minh&#8217;s official residence, though he refused to live in the building<\/strong>, considering it inappropriate while ordinary people were struggling to get by. He moved instead into a simple traditional wooden house next door, beside a garden and a fish pond.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Visitor information<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Only the exterior, the gardens, the pond, the museum and Ho Chi Minh&#8217;s wooden house can be visited.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Entrance fee: 40,000 VND (~US$1.50)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"771\" src=\"https:\/\/viajarvietnam.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/PAGODA-DEL-PILAR-UNICO-HANOI.jpg\" alt=\"PAGODA DEL PILAR \u00daNICO EN HANOI, VIETNAM\" class=\"wp-image-4144\" srcset=\"https:\/\/viajarvietnam.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/PAGODA-DEL-PILAR-UNICO-HANOI.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/viajarvietnam.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/PAGODA-DEL-PILAR-UNICO-HANOI-300x226.webp 300w, https:\/\/viajarvietnam.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/PAGODA-DEL-PILAR-UNICO-HANOI-768x578.webp 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-left\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"17_the_hanoi_military_history_museum\"><\/span>17. The Hanoi Military History Museum<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The <a href=\"https:\/\/viajarvietnam.com\/en\/hanoi\/military-history-museum\/\">Hanoi Military History Museum<\/a> is a walk through the many wartime misfortunes Vietnam has sadly endured across much of its history.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This museum is an essential visit in Hanoi if you&#8217;re a military history enthusiast.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The new military history museum is one of the most imposing recently built structures in Hanoi, taking up an enormous space in the middle of the city. It houses several exhibitions, packed with numerous war artifacts and documents.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Among them are mines, infrared optics, telephones and butterfly bombs produced by the US and used by France in the Indochina War, as well as wooden remains used in the famous naval battle of Bach Dang against the Mongol army in 1288.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">But without doubt the most interesting part of this place is <strong>walking through its outdoor courtyard among the wreckage of American planes, helicopters, missiles and tanks<\/strong> \u2014 including the fuselage of a US F-111A.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Visitor information<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Opening hours<\/strong>: 8:00 am &#8211; 11:30 am and 1:30 pm &#8211; 4:30 pm. Closed Mondays and Fridays.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Entrance fee<\/strong>: 40,000 VND (~US$1.50)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" src=\"https:\/\/viajarvietnam.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/museo-historia-militar-hanoi-1-1024x683.webp\" alt=\"museo de historia militar en hanoi\" class=\"wp-image-2387\" srcset=\"https:\/\/viajarvietnam.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/museo-historia-militar-hanoi-1-1024x683.webp 1024w, https:\/\/viajarvietnam.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/museo-historia-militar-hanoi-1-300x200.webp 300w, https:\/\/viajarvietnam.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/museo-historia-militar-hanoi-1-768x512.webp 768w, https:\/\/viajarvietnam.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/museo-historia-militar-hanoi-1.jpg 1026w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-left\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"18_the_french_quarter\"><\/span>18. The French Quarter<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The French Quarter is one of the most picturesque places to see in Hanoi. It was built in the late 19th century with the aim of blending the Western way of life with Vietnamese culture and creating an operational zone for French governors and soldiers. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It&#8217;s an ideal place for a stroll if you want to appreciate the French influence on Hanoi&#8217;s architecture and urban planning.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Although Hanoi&#8217;s <strong>French Quarter<\/strong> and <strong>Old Quarter<\/strong> are close to one another, they&#8217;re distinct areas of the city:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>The <strong>Old Quarter<\/strong> is concentrated mainly to the north and west of Hoan Kiem lake.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The <strong>French Quarter<\/strong> lies to the south and east of the lake.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Among its most iconic buildings are <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/viajarvietnam.com\/en\/hanoi\/st-josephs-cathedral\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">St. Joseph&#8217;s Cathedral<\/a><\/strong>, <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/viajarvietnam.com\/en\/hanoi\/hoa-lo-prison\/\">Hoa Lo Prison<\/a><\/strong> and the <strong>Hanoi Opera House<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"19_the_hanoi_opera_house\"><\/span>19. The Hanoi Opera House<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It&#8217;s <strong>the largest theater in Vietnam<\/strong> and a significant historic and architectural landmark in the city. Its design is heavily influenced by the Paris Opera and classical Greek architecture.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It doesn&#8217;t operate as a museum, so the interior can only be visited if you attend a show. The minivans to Mai Chau and other tourist spots usually depart from its square.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you happen to pass by at night you can see it fully lit up, which somehow heightens its style and its French air.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Hours<\/strong>: Variable.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Price<\/strong>: Varies by show<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"20_st_josephs_cathedral\"><\/span>20. St. Joseph&#8217;s Cathedral<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><a href=\"https:\/\/viajarvietnam.com\/en\/hanoi\/st-josephs-cathedral\/\">St. Joseph&#8217;s Cathedral<\/a> is <strong>the oldest church in Hanoi<\/strong> and is considered <strong>the first major French colonial building in Indochina<\/strong>, raised in the late 19th century.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This <strong>neo-Gothic<\/strong> church, clearly inspired by <strong>Notre-Dame in Paris<\/strong>, contrasts strikingly with its Asian surroundings \u2014 which makes it a great spot to stop for a photo.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Opening hours<\/strong>: Any time for the exterior, and during service hours for the interior.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Price<\/strong>: Free<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"577\" src=\"https:\/\/viajarvietnam.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/catedral-hanoi-1024x577.webp\" alt=\"catedral de san jose en hanoi\" class=\"wp-image-2390\" srcset=\"https:\/\/viajarvietnam.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/catedral-hanoi-1024x577.webp 1024w, https:\/\/viajarvietnam.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/catedral-hanoi-300x169.webp 300w, https:\/\/viajarvietnam.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/catedral-hanoi-768x433.webp 768w, https:\/\/viajarvietnam.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/catedral-hanoi.jpg 1026w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-left\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"21_the_longest_mosaic_in_the_world\"><\/span>21. The longest mosaic in the world<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Seriously? That&#8217;s in Hanoi? Yes \u2014 and it&#8217;s worth a look.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It isn&#8217;t the best known and many people miss it thanks to its peculiar location, but <a href=\"https:\/\/viajarvietnam.com\/en\/hanoi\/hanoi-ceramic-mosaic\/\">this mosaic in Hanoi<\/a>, <strong>several kilometers long, holds the world record<\/strong> and is well worth a walk.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It&#8217;s not a tourist&#8221;must&#8221;, and being on a big, traffic-heavy avenue strips away a fair bit of its charm \u2014 but if you&#8217;re passing through the Long Bien bus station (where the <a href=\"https:\/\/viajarvietnam.com\/en\/hanoi\/hanoi-airport-to-city-center\/\">airport bus<\/a> drops you), you can take the chance to see some of its stretches.<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"615\" src=\"https:\/\/viajarvietnam.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/mosaico-hanoi-1-1024x615.webp\" alt=\"mosaico de hanoi\n\" class=\"wp-image-2395\" srcset=\"https:\/\/viajarvietnam.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/mosaico-hanoi-1-1024x615.webp 1024w, https:\/\/viajarvietnam.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/mosaico-hanoi-1-300x180.webp 300w, https:\/\/viajarvietnam.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/mosaico-hanoi-1-768x461.webp 768w, https:\/\/viajarvietnam.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/mosaico-hanoi-1.webp 1026w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"22_west_lake_and_tran_quoc_pagoda\"><\/span>22. West Lake and Tran Quoc pagoda<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>West Lake<\/strong> (also known as Ho Tay) sits in the northwest of the city and is the largest natural lake in Hanoi \u2014 without doubt an iconic spot in Vietnam&#8217;s capital. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">With a shoreline of roughly 15 kilometers, it&#8217;s frequented mostly by locals and by a handful of expats who&#8217;ve settled into the Western-style houses dotting the area. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">For us it&#8217;s <strong>a great place to disconnect from the city&#8217;s bustle and experience the authentic life<\/strong> of the local population.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Along its shores you&#8217;ll find restaurants, caf\u00e9s and a very lively nightlife, which make this part of the city one of the most popular.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Among West Lake&#8217;s many points of interest are the <strong>Tran Quoc Pagoda<\/strong>, the oldest in the capital, built in the 6th century during the reign of king Ly Nam De, and the <strong>Tay Ho Temple<\/strong>, one of Hanoi&#8217;s most sacred temples.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"576\" src=\"https:\/\/viajarvietnam.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/pagoda-tran-quoc-west-lake-hanoi-1024x576.webp\" alt=\"west lake hanoi y pagoda tran quoc\" class=\"wp-image-2397\" srcset=\"https:\/\/viajarvietnam.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/pagoda-tran-quoc-west-lake-hanoi-1024x576.webp 1024w, https:\/\/viajarvietnam.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/pagoda-tran-quoc-west-lake-hanoi-300x169.webp 300w, https:\/\/viajarvietnam.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/pagoda-tran-quoc-west-lake-hanoi-768x432.webp 768w, https:\/\/viajarvietnam.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/pagoda-tran-quoc-west-lake-hanoi.webp 1026w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"map_of_the_main_places_to_see_in_hanoi\"><\/span>Map of the main places to see in Hanoi<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Here&#8217;s an <strong>up-to-date map of the most important places to see in Hanoi<\/strong>, so you can check them quickly and easily.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<iframe loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/d\/u\/1\/embed?mid=14x4uyk4qHbDov9wCIzyXsqkhkw9Z64I&#038;ehbc=2E312F\" width=\"100%\" height=\"480\"><\/iframe>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"what_to_eat_in_hanoi_5_essential_local_dishes\"><\/span>What to eat in Hanoi: 5 essential local dishes<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Hanoi is <strong>one of Southeast Asia&#8217;s great culinary capitals<\/strong> and, in our view, eating well here is half the experience. Here are five dishes you absolutely have to try, along with the place where we like to eat them.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">1. B\u00fan ch\u1ea3<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We covered it <a href=\"#buncha\">above<\/a>, but it deserves the mention: <strong>it&#8217;s our favorite<\/strong>. Grilled pork patties, rice noodles, fresh herbs and a sweet-and-sour broth.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Nothing like what you&#8217;ll eat in other parts of the country. Our spot: <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/maps.app.goo.gl\/oB8h3ZXY4TvKi8Dq5\">B\u00fan ch\u1ea3 22 ng\u00f5 Huy\u1ec7n<\/a><\/strong>. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">2. Ph\u1edf (Ph\u1edf B\u00f2)<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The national soup. Beef or chicken broth simmered for hours, thin rice noodles (<em>b\u00fan<\/em>) and a tray of fresh herbs to add to taste. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Hanoi&#8217;s version is served cleaner than the southern one<\/strong>. A cheap dish, a perfect dish. We go to <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/maps.app.goo.gl\/h9Jvqm1JAtGmpYAC8\">Family Pho<\/a><\/strong>, near Hoan Kiem: a bowl for around <strong>50,000 VND (~US$1.90)<\/strong> that won&#8217;t disappoint.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">3. B\u00e1nh cu\u1ed1n<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Less touristy, more local. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">They&#8217;re a kind of <strong>steamed rice-flour sheet<\/strong>, wafer-thin, usually filled with minced meat, mushrooms and spring onion. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Ideal as a snack, or for breakfast if you really commit. <strong>Honestly, it&#8217;s one of the things we miss most when we leave Vietnam<\/strong>. Ballpark price: <strong>40,000-60,000 VND (~US$1.50-2.30)<\/strong>. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Our recommendation: <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/maps.app.goo.gl\/BwyZ98GPbSdQtndUA\">B\u00e1nh Cu\u1ed1n Cao B\u1eb1ng Ph\u1ed1 C\u1ed5 H\u00e0 N\u1ed9i<\/a><\/strong>, right in the old town.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">4. \u0110\u1ed3 n\u01b0\u1edbng gi\u1ea5y b\u1ea1c (barbecue)<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Pure late-night street food. Vegetables, beef, pork belly, seafood\u2026 <strong>everything grilled on a pan lined with aluminum foil<\/strong> right on the sidewalk, at plastic tables and stools with cold beers. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It isn&#8217;t a specific dish, it&#8217;s <strong>a group dinner ritual<\/strong> \u2014 basically because you cook it yourself.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">In our view, one of the best food experiences you can have in Hanoi. The price depends on what you order; budget <strong>100,000-150,000 VND per person (~US$3.80-5.80)<\/strong>. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">One of our favorite spots: <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/maps.app.goo.gl\/zyfR23on6wMz7ExLA\">N\u01b0\u1edbng L\u1ea9u H\u00e0 Linh<\/a><\/strong>, though you&#8217;ll find plenty more in that area.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">5. Ch\u1ea3 c\u00e1 l\u00e3 v\u1ecdng<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">An emblematic dish with a name of its own. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>White fish marinated in turmeric and dill<\/strong>, fried in a hot pan right at your table, served with rice noodles, peanuts and fermented fish sauce. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>This is no ordinary dish<\/strong> \u2014 it&#8217;s pricey by Vietnamese standards, but worth it at least once. Price: 80,000-120,000 VND (~US$3.10-4.60). <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Our recommendation: <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/maps.app.goo.gl\/G3DTjSNSkiPtCv7a6\">Ch\u1ea3 C\u00e1 L\u0103ng Ngon<\/a><\/strong> (3B c\u01a1 s\u1edf 1, Hoan Kiem), where they nail it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Note:<\/strong> egg coffee, although also typical of Hanoi, <a href=\"#egg\">is covered above<\/a>, since it&#8217;s a drink and not a dish.<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"dormir\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"where_to_stay_in_hanoi\"><\/span>Where to stay in Hanoi<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">First things first: <strong>the area you stay in will shape your trip<\/strong>. Hanoi has several neighborhoods and they don&#8217;t all serve the same purpose.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Old Quarter<\/strong> \u2014 Our general recommendation, especially if it&#8217;s your first time. Chaotic, alive, full of restaurants and a 5-minute walk from Hoan Kiem lake. It&#8217;s where we always stay.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Hoan Kiem (around the lake)<\/strong> \u2014 A bit quieter than the Old Quarter but just as central. A good option if you&#8217;d rather sleep with a little less late-night noise.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>French Quarter<\/strong> \u2014 More residential and elegant, with caf\u00e9s and colonial architecture. It works for mid-to-high budgets that value calm over being right next to the Old Quarter.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Here are <strong>three options, one per budget<\/strong>, all in the Old Quarter or very close by:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"vv-alojamiento\">\n  <div class=\"vv-aloj-top\">\n    <span class=\"vv-aloj-tier\">Backpacker<\/span>\n    <span class=\"vv-aloj-rating\">\n      <span class=\"vv-aloj-score\">9.3<\/span>\n      <span class=\"vv-aloj-reviews\">2,800 reviews<\/span>\n    <\/span>\n  <\/div>\n  <h4><a href=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/vn\/old-quarter-view-hanoi-hostel.en-gb.html?aid=1736512&amp;no_rooms=1&amp;group_adults=2&amp;room1=A%2CA&amp;label=HANOI\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">Old Quarter View Hanoi Hostel<\/a><\/h4>\n  <p class=\"vv-aloj-meta\">Hostel \u00b7 Old Quarter<\/p>\n  <p class=\"vv-aloj-precio\">From <strong>340,000 VND<\/strong> (~\u20ac12.80) \/ night<\/p>\n  <p class=\"vv-aloj-desc\">Sociable vibe and zero complications: the classic Old Quarter hostel, with over 2,800 reviews.<\/p>\n  <a class=\"vv-aloj-cta\" href=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/vn\/old-quarter-view-hanoi-hostel.en-gb.html?aid=1736512&amp;no_rooms=1&amp;group_adults=2&amp;room1=A%2CA&amp;label=HANOI\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">Check availability and prices \u2192<\/a>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"vv-alojamiento\">\n  <div class=\"vv-aloj-top\">\n    <span class=\"vv-aloj-tier\">Best value<\/span>\n    <span class=\"vv-aloj-rating\">\n      <span class=\"vv-aloj-score\">9.2<\/span>\n      <span class=\"vv-aloj-reviews\">5,000 reviews<\/span>\n    <\/span>\n  <\/div>\n  <h4><a href=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/vn\/the-classic-street.en-gb.html?aid=1736512&amp;no_rooms=1&amp;group_adults=2&amp;room1=A%2CA&amp;label=HANOI\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">Classic Street Hotel<\/a><\/h4>\n  <p class=\"vv-aloj-meta\">Hotel 4\u2605 \u00b7 Old Quarter<\/p>\n  <p class=\"vv-aloj-precio\">From <strong>1,000,000 VND<\/strong> (~\u20ac37.75) \/ night<\/p>\n  <p class=\"vv-aloj-desc\">The perfect price-quality balance right in the Old Quarter, with 5,000 reviews of authority that\u2019s hard to beat.<\/p>\n  <a class=\"vv-aloj-cta\" href=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/vn\/the-classic-street.en-gb.html?aid=1736512&amp;no_rooms=1&amp;group_adults=2&amp;room1=A%2CA&amp;label=HANOI\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">Check availability and prices \u2192<\/a>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"vv-alojamiento\">\n  <div class=\"vv-aloj-top\">\n    <span class=\"vv-aloj-tier\">Premium<\/span>\n    <span class=\"vv-aloj-rating\">\n      <span class=\"vv-aloj-score\">9.9<\/span>\n      <span class=\"vv-aloj-reviews\">2,200 reviews<\/span>\n    <\/span>\n  <\/div>\n  <h4><a href=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/vn\/le-premier-hoan-kiem.en-gb.html?aid=1736512&amp;no_rooms=1&amp;group_adults=2&amp;room1=A%2CA&amp;label=HANOI\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">Le Premier Hotel &amp; Rooftop Bar<\/a><\/h4>\n  <p class=\"vv-aloj-meta\">Hotel 4\u2605 \u00b7 Old Quarter<\/p>\n  <p class=\"vv-aloj-precio\">From <strong>2,300,000 VND<\/strong> (~\u20ac86.80) \/ night<\/p>\n  <p class=\"vv-aloj-desc\">One of the highest ratings in the country. The best gateway to the high end, with a rooftop bar and Old Quarter views.<\/p>\n  <a class=\"vv-aloj-cta\" href=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/vn\/le-premier-hoan-kiem.en-gb.html?aid=1736512&amp;no_rooms=1&amp;group_adults=2&amp;room1=A%2CA&amp;label=HANOI\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">Check availability and prices \u2192<\/a>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>In our view<\/strong>, if it&#8217;s your first time, don&#8217;t overthink it: any mid-range hotel in the Old Quarter will serve you more than well. The difference with the high end lies more in aesthetics and services than in location.<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"how_to_get_around_hanoi\"><\/span>How to get around Hanoi<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">One of the main concerns for every traveler in Vietnam is learning to get around without trouble. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-left wp-block-paragraph\">The good news is that if you&#8217;re sticking to <strong>the city&#8217;s historic center, it&#8217;s perfectly walkable<\/strong> between its main attractions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>If you simply don&#8217;t feel like walking any more, or you want to reach somewhere farther out<\/strong> like West Lake or the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, the easiest option is <a href=\"https:\/\/www.grab.com\/\">the Grab app<\/a>, which will also serve you in other Southeast Asian countries.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Through Grab you can book a motorbike or a car at a price fixed in advance.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">For the more old-school, there&#8217;s always the option of negotiating directly with a <strong>taxi or motorbike taxi<\/strong> \u2014 you&#8217;ll find them on almost every corner of the historic center.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Finally, a popular way to get around among tourists is <strong>the rickshaw<\/strong>, a mode of transport that became especially popular in the early decades of the last century.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-left\" id=\"aero\">How to get from the airport to the city center<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If it&#8217;s your first time and you&#8217;ve just landed in Hanoi, we explain how to get easily <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/viajarvietnam.com\/en\/hanoi\/hanoi-airport-to-city-center\/\">from Noi Bai airport to Hanoi&#8217;s Old Quarter<\/a>,<\/strong> where most of the city&#8217;s visitors stay.<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" src=\"https:\/\/viajarvietnam.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/hanoi-bus-del-aeropuerto-1024x683.webp\" alt=\"bus aeropuerto en hanoi\" class=\"wp-image-2429\" srcset=\"https:\/\/viajarvietnam.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/hanoi-bus-del-aeropuerto-1024x683.webp 1024w, https:\/\/viajarvietnam.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/hanoi-bus-del-aeropuerto-300x200.webp 300w, https:\/\/viajarvietnam.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/hanoi-bus-del-aeropuerto-768x512.webp 768w, https:\/\/viajarvietnam.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/hanoi-bus-del-aeropuerto.webp 1026w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-left\">From Hanoi to Ninh Binh<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you&#8217;re thinking of carrying on with your trip and aren&#8217;t sure where to, just a couple of hours from the capital lies <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/viajarvietnam.com\/en\/ninh-binh\/\">Ninh Binh<\/a>, one of those places you won&#8217;t want to<\/strong> <strong>miss<\/strong> on your itinerary.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><a href=\"https:\/\/viajarvietnam.com\/en\/ninh-binh\/how-to-get-from-hanoi-to-ninh-binh\/\">Here&#8217;s an interesting post with all the information on <\/a>how to get from Hanoi to Ninh Binh by the different means of transport.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-left\">How to get from Hanoi to Sapa<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><a href=\"https:\/\/viajarvietnam.com\/en\/sapa\/\">Sapa<\/a> remains one of the places that draws the most tourists and travelers from all over the world.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We explain <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/viajarvietnam.com\/en\/sapa\/how-to-get-from-hanoi-to-sapa\/\">how to get from Hanoi to Sapa<\/a> <\/strong>without complications.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The most comfortable and cheapest option is the <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/12go.com\/en\/bus\/hanoi\/sapa\/?z=4018868\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">night bus<\/a><\/strong> (6 hours, 300,000 VND ~US$11.50, several departures a day). If you&#8217;d rather take the train, there&#8217;s also a <a href=\"https:\/\/12go.com\/en\/train\/hanoi\/sapa\/?z=4018868\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">night train<\/a> (8 hours, 850,000 VND ~US$32.70) \u2014 pricier, but more comfortable if you sleep well on rails.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-left\">Getting from Hanoi to Hue<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Set in central Vietnam, the city of <a href=\"https:\/\/viajarvietnam.com\/en\/hue\/\">Hue<\/a> was one of the country&#8217;s most important, and the remains of its imperial past make it a practically mandatory stop.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you want to travel from Hanoi to Hue, you&#8217;ll find all the information here.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">How to get from Hanoi to Ha Giang<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">There&#8217;s no doubt that <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/viajarvietnam.com\/en\/ha-giang\/\">Ha Giang<\/a> is today one of the most sought-after destinations in northern Vietnam.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you&#8217;re thinking of heading there for the spectacular <a href=\"https:\/\/viajarvietnam.com\/en\/ha-giang\/\">Ha Giang Loop<\/a>, here&#8217;s all the information on <a href=\"https:\/\/viajarvietnam.com\/en\/ha-giang\/how-to-get-from-hanoi-to-ha-giang\/\">how to get to Ha Giang in this post.<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The most-used option is the <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/12go.com\/en\/bus\/hanoi\/ha-giang\/?z=4018868\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">night bus from Hanoi<\/a><\/strong> (6 hours, <strong>300,000 VND ~US$11.50<\/strong>).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-left\">How to get from Hanoi to Hoi An<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Hoi An, considered by many <strong>the most beautiful city in Vietnam<\/strong>, is very well connected with the rest of the country.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">To get there, <strong>you first need to reach Da Nang<\/strong>, in the center of the country. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">You can take a domestic flight (about 1.5 hours) or, if you&#8217;re like us and enjoy the scenic route without rushing, the overnight sleeper train (it takes all night).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Once you reach Da Nang, we explain how to get to Hoi An easily from <a href=\"https:\/\/viajarvietnam.com\/en\/how-to-get-from-da-nang-to-hoi-an\/\">Da Nang in this article.<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"frequently_asked_questions_about_what_to_see_in_hanoi\"><\/span>Frequently asked questions about what to see in Hanoi<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"schema-faq wp-block-yoast-faq-block\"><div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1778057219601\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\"><strong>How many days do you need to visit Hanoi?<\/strong><\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\"><strong>2 full days<\/strong> are enough for the essentials in the center: the old town, the local food and a free walking tour. If you want to add the French Quarter at a relaxed pace or a day trip (Halong, Ninh Binh), give it at least 1 more day.<\/p> <\/div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1778057267994\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\"><strong>Is it safe to travel to Hanoi?<\/strong><\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">Yes, <strong>very safe<\/strong>. Hanoi has no areas known to be dangerous for tourists. Just apply common sense in crowded places.<\/p> <\/div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1778057307559\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\"><strong>When is the best time to visit Hanoi?<\/strong><\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\"><strong>October to April<\/strong> is the best window: cool weather, no rain and very manageable temperatures. June to August is doable but demanding, thanks to the heat plus sky-high humidity. We cover it in detail in our guide to the <a href=\"https:\/\/viajarvietnam.com\/en\/best-time-to-visit-vietnam\/\">best time to visit Vietnam<\/a>.<\/p> <\/div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1778057370371\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\"><strong>Where is the best area to stay in Hanoi?<\/strong><\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">In the <strong>Old Quarter<\/strong>: central, lively and right by the main sights. The French Quarter is a good alternative for higher budgets that value calm. You have our full hotel selection <strong><a href=\"#dormir\">above in this same article<\/a><\/strong><\/p> <\/div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1778057453294\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\"><strong>How do you get from Hanoi airport to the center?<\/strong><\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\"><strong>Noi Bai<\/strong> airport is about <strong>30 km from the Old Quarter<\/strong>. Three options: the public bus (the cheapest), Grab\/taxi (~<strong>300,000 VND, about US$11.50<\/strong>) or a pre-booked private transfer. We cover it in detail in the section on <a href=\"https:\/\/viajarvietnam.com\/en\/hanoi\/hanoi-airport-to-city-center\/\">how to get from the airport to central Hanoi<\/a>.<\/p> <\/div> <\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">\u2714\ufe0f Information reviewed and last updated in April 2026.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity is-style-dots\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h5 class=\"wp-block-heading has-medium-font-size\"><em>Other posts you might like\u2026<\/em><\/h5>\n\n\n<\/p>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Hanoi is the ideal place to start or finish your trip through Vietnam. Not only is it the country&#8217;s capital, it&#8217;s an unmissable destination, packed with interesting places to explore and things to do. You won&#8217;t tire easily in Hanoi: the motorbikes, the horns, the smells, the vendors\u2026 everything here is a stimulus. We have &#8230; <a title=\"22 best things to do in Hanoi: complete travel guide\" class=\"read-more\" href=\"https:\/\/viajarvietnam.com\/en\/hanoi\/\" aria-label=\"Read more about 22 best things to do in Hanoi: complete travel guide\">Read more<\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":3631,"parent":0,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"","meta":{"footnotes":""},"class_list":["post-3636","page","type-page","status-publish","has-post-thumbnail"],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v28.2 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>22 Best Things to Do in Hanoi: Complete Travel Guide<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"Train street, egg coffee, Bun Cha, Hoa Lo and 18 more. Itineraries for 1 or 2 days, where to stay and how to get around.\" \/>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/viajarvietnam.com\/en\/hanoi\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_US\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"22 Best Things to Do in Hanoi: Complete Travel Guide\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:description\" content=\"Train street, egg coffee, Bun Cha, Hoa Lo and 18 more. 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