Hanoi Things to Do • travel guide post & photos by Jeanie A
In Hanoi and wondering what’s worth your time? Here’s my list of the 9 best things to see, do, and experience in Vietnam’s charming city of Hanoi.
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Vietnam’s capital city, Hanoi, is a place that will steal your hear. One moment you’re wandering through ancient temples, and the next you’re navigating buzzing streets filled with scooters, street vendors, and the aroma of Vietnamese coffee. In this guide, you’ll find some of the best things to do in Hanoi, from historic landmarks and cultural sites to scenic viewpoints and unique local experiences that make the city so memorable.
Recommended Hanoi Tours & Activities
Book unforgettable experiences and check out the below recommended Hanoi tours, activities and attractions that are mentioned throughout this post:
The above map shows all the points of interest mentioned in this Hanoi post.
HOW TO USE THE ABOVE HANOI ATTRACTIONS MAP:
Action
Description
Click a Colored Point of Interest
Shows additional information and details of the selected Point of Interest
Click the Four-cornered Square at the Top Right
Opens the map in a Larger Map view in your personal Google Maps account
On Larger Map view, click the STAR ☆ under “Hanoi Attractions“
Adds the Map to your personal Google Maps account to access anytime on Computer* or on Phone App**
*On Computer: In your Google Maps, Click “Saved” on left bar → Click “Maps” → Click “Hanoi Attractions“
**On Phone App: In your Google Maps app, Click “You” on bottom bar → Scroll to bottom → Click “Maps” → Click “Hanoi Attractions“
9 Things to Do in Hanoi
Culture & Views
1. Ngoc Son Temple
Ngoc Son Temple is located on a small island in the middle of Hoan Kiem Lake. You’ll get to cross the iconic red bridge and take your time wandering the peaceful temple grounds.
2. Food Tour & Cyclo Ride
Many food tours include a cycle (three-wheeled bicycle taxi) ride through the Old Quarter. It’s a fun way to see the city and be immersed in Old Quarter’s busy streets. On the food tour expect to try new and familiar foods such as: pho, banh mi, fresh spring rolls, and desserts.
Book the same tour I went on by clicking here or click on “Book Now” in the widget below:
3. Hanoi Train Street
Yes the train really does pass inches from cafes and homes along the railway. It’s pretty surreal and one of Hanoi’s most iconic experiences. There are tons of cafes that line the railway, and staff members will lead you to a good seat to witness the train passing through.
The safest way to visit the Train Street is to book with a tour to ensure entry and to know the most up-to-date access rules and train times.
You can book the same tour I went on, which includes transportation, a guide, and the Incense Village by clicking here, or click on the widget below:
Go on a half-day tour to Quang Phu Cau Incense Village. This is where those viral photos of bright red incense bundles come from. But other than that, you can also see and learn how locals make the incense and also get a chance to make your own!
It’s about an hour from Hanoi and makes for a unique cultural experience and is a must-visit in my opinion 🙂 You can book the same tour I went on, which includes transportation, a guide, and train street by clicking here, or click on the widget below:
Experience Hanoi’s elite cafe culture by hopping between cafes and getting some delicious coffees and teas! You can visit:
The Note Coffee
Famous for its colorful walls covered in handwritten notes. It does get crowded here so you might have to wait a bit for a table to free up. It’s especially hard to get a spot by the open-air windows for a view overlooking the lake. And yes, you are able to write your own note and stick it anywhere in the cafe!
Always Cafe
Always Cafe: A Harry Potter-themed cafe near the lake. All drinks and food items are a nod to the famous wizarding world. It is a bit small, but this wall also sort of a hidden gem that it didn’t take long to be seated!
Hidden Gem Cafe Hanoi:
A beautiful cafe with colorful and quirky decorations
Hanoi Coffee Culture
Another cafe with a unique vibe, some cute decor and a must-try egg coffee! They also have demonstrations on how to make your own egg coffee.
Train Street Cafes (any)
Train Street has a ton of cafes you can choose from. SO you really can’t go wrong with any. Pick one and get a drink while you wait for the train to buzz by. Note that Train Street periodically closes down due to safety issues, so be sure to do a bit of research to see if it’s been recently open which may indicate it being open during your visit.
6. Hanoi Old Quarter
If you’re cafe hopping, then you’re inevitably also exploring Old Quarter. But if you’re not cafe hopping, do still explore this historic quarter! Here you can get lost in the streets, go shopping for all kinds of things, like silk, souvenirs, leather goods, homeware, shoes, luggages (heh especially necessary if you plan to spree). All while experiencing the culture with chaotic street crossings, lively alleys, and vibrant storefronts. This is also a great place to shop for small gifts and practice a little friendly bargaining.
7. Beer Street & Rooftop Sky Bars
Experience nightlife on the streets of Old Quarter! Check out Beer Street where you will find tons of people enjoying the night with some drinks.
If you love a good view from a bird’s eye view, there’s plenty of rooftops bars for you to enjoy:
Skyline Hanoi
The Summit Lounge
Terraco Sky Bar
Lux SkyBar
Upper Cloud Sky Bar
May De Ville Lakeside Rooftop Bar
Lighthouse Sky Bar
Moonlight Sky Bar
Upper Haven Sky Bar
Le Ciel Bar
SOL SKY BAR
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Thank you!-Jeanie
Day Trips
8. Ninh Binh Day Tour
Take a full-day tour from Hanoi to Ninh Binh, which is about 2 hours away.
This region is known for dramatic limestone mountains, rice paddies, and river boat rides. Most tours include a climb up Hang Mua for incredible panoramic views, a boat ride through Tam Coc, and a visit to the ancient capital of Hoa Lu. The day is a bit long but it’s scenic, peaceful, and absolutely worth it.
Okay no trip to northern Vietnam is complete without visiting the famous Ha Long Bay. It’s scenic, beautiful, and is another must-visit!! Consider these two options to experience Ha Long Bay from Hanoi:
Option 1: Day Trip (Veryyy Long Day)
Going on a day trip from Hanoi is possible and definitely doable but it will be a verryyy looong day. We’re talking 12-14 hours long. But if you’re short on time and want a taste of Ha Long Bay, then this is a good option.
What a Day tour includes:
2.5-2.5 hour transfer each way
4-6 hours of cruising
Kayaking and cave visit
Option 2: 2D/1N Overnight Cruise (What I Did & I Highly Recommend)
I highly recommend staying overnight if your schedule allows it. This is what a 2 Day/1 Night overnight cruise typically provides:
2.5-3.5 hour transfer each way in a comfortable van
The pace is more relaxed
All meals on the boat
Sunset and sunrise views on the water
impeccable service on a luxury boat
pool
activities may include kayaking, swimming cave visit, cooking class, and tai chi
Where to Stay in Hanoi
In Hanoi, I stayed at the La Sinfonía del Rey Hotel & Spa, which is centrally located and within walking distance to Hanoi Old Quarter where you’ll find tons of shopping and eating options. Book your stay by clicking here, or check availability for your dates below and click “Search”:
Hanoi is a city that leaves a lasting impression. Between its historic temples, lively streets, and peaceful lakes, every corner reveals something new to discover.
Have you done any of these in Hanoi? Which was your favorite – Let me know in the comments below!
Jeanie has traveled to over 50 countries and has a love for new experiences, visiting iconic attractions, and finding breathtaking views. Hoping to help plan unforgettable adventures, Jeanie aims to inspire others to visit new places through her travel stories and photography.
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