Top 15 Things to Do in Hanoi, Vietnam
Hanoi is Vietnam’s cultural capital, and one of Southeast Asia’s most rewarding cities to explore.This guide covers the 15 best things to do in Hanoi, from wandering the thousand-year-old Old Quarter to taking a bucket-list day trip to Halong Bay. You’ll also find practical tips on transport, currency, timing, and the street food you absolutely can’t miss.
Being the cultural heart of the country, Hanoi offers visitors a deep dive into history, architecture, cuisine, and daily life. Whether you’re wandering through the Hanoi Old Quarter, learning about Vietnam’s revolutionary past at the Ho Chi Minh Museum, or planning a bucket-list trip to Halong Bay, this city is packed with unforgettable experiences.
Hanoi is a place where ancient temples stand beside colonial villas, where motorbikes hum past serene lakes, and where some of the world’s best street food costs just a few dollars. If you’re looking for the top things to do in Hanoi, you’re on the right path to planning an unforgettable trip.
In this guide on the top things to do in Hanoi, you’ll find all the information you need to get you ready for your trip to Hanoi:
- Essential travel tips for visiting Hanoi
- Currency and transport advice
- 15 detailed Hanoi attractions
- Must-try local foods
- Practical travel insights
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Things to Know Before Visiting Hanoi
Before exploring the top things to do in Hanoi, here are important details to help you plan your trip efficiently.
Where Is Hanoi?
Hanoi is located in northern Vietnam along the Red River Delta. It is the capital of Vietnam and is the gateway to northern highlights including Halong Bay, Sapa, and Ninh Binh.
Best Time to Visit Hanoi
Timing your trip correctly will enhance your experience of the top things to do in Hanoi.
Best Months:
- March to April – Warm, dry, and pleasant
- October to November – Cool, comfortable weather
- Summer (May–September): Hot, humid, and rainy
- Winter (December–February): Cooler and sometimes misty
If you prefer warmer temperatures travelling to Hanoi between April to June is the way to go. Keep in mind the temperatures are hot, ocassionally over 30 degrees. October and November see cooler temperatures of around 25 degrees, perfect for exploring Hanoi. Autumn is widely considered the most beautiful season in Hanoi.
We visited Hanoi in Dec, found it perfect for us. Temperatures were cooler but nothing that a light jacket couldnt fix.
Currency in Hanoi
The official currency is the Vietnamese Dong (VND).
- Cash is king, especially in markets and street stalls.
- ATMs are widely available.
- Credit cards are accepted in hotels and upscale restaurants.
Getting Around
- Grab app for taxis and motorbikes
- Walking (especially in the Hanoi Old Quarter)
- Cyclo rides for a traditional experience
Crossing the street may feel intimidating, walk steadily and confidently as traffic flows around you.
Check Visa Requirements for Vietnam here.
Top 15 Things to Do in Hanoi
The vibrant capital of Hanoi offers an incredible blend of ancient history, rich culture, and buzzing street life. From centuries-old temples and colonial architecture to lively markets and world-famous street food, the city captures the essence of Vietnam in one fascinating destination. Whether you’re wandering through the atmospheric Old Quarter, discovering historical landmarks, or sampling bowls of steaming pho on a street corner, Hanoi delivers unforgettable experiences at every turn.
Now let’s dive into the top things to do in Hanoi to make the most of your visit. These are the must-see experiences that make Hanoi one of Asia’s most fascinating cities.
Explore Hanoi’s Old Quarter (1,000 Years of History)
The Hanoi Old Quarter is easily one of the top things to do in Hanoi and the best place to begin your adventure.
A visit to Hanoi Old Quarter is one of the most exciting ways to experience the heart and soul of Hanoi. This historic district dates back over 1,000 years and is famous for its maze of narrow streets, each traditionally dedicated to a specific trade. As you wander through the lively alleys, you’ll find everything from silk shops and artisan crafts to street food stalls serving steaming bowls of Pho and crispy Bánh Mì.
The Old Quarter is also home to charming colonial-era buildings, vibrant markets, and tiny cafés tucked between shops. The atmosphere is energetic and chaotic in the best possible way, with motorbikes weaving through crowds and locals going about their daily routines. Exploring this area on foot allows you to soak in the sights, sounds, and flavors that make Hanoi such a captivating destination.
Spend hours wandering without a plan, getting slightly lost is part of the charm.
Visit the Ho Chi Minh Museum Complex
A visit to the Ho Chi Minh Museum is among the most important cultural experiences when exploring the top things to do in Hanoi.
The Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and surrounding complex is one of the most important historical sites in Vietnam. Dedicated to the revolutionary leader Ho Chi Minh, the complex includes several significant landmarks such as the mausoleum itself, the Presidential Palace, Ho Chi Minh’s humble stilt house, and the Ho Chi Minh Museum.
Visitors can learn about the life and legacy of Ho Chi Minh, who played a central role in Vietnam’s independence movement. The grounds are peaceful and beautifully maintained, with gardens, ponds, and shaded pathways that provide a tranquil break from the busy city. The museum offers a deeper look at Vietnam’s modern history through exhibits, artifacts, and multimedia displays that tell the story of the nation’s struggle for independence.
You can buy a skip the line entry ticket to the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum which includes access to the historical site, access to the museum and a documentary film about Ho Chi Minh (for groups fo 6 or more).
Explore the Temple of Literature
The Temple of Literature is one of the most peaceful Hanoi attractions. This beautiful historical landmark in Hanoi, is a serene complex dedicated to Confucius and scholars of ancient Vietnam. Founded in 1070, this impressive site once served as the country’s first national university and educated Vietnam’s elite scholars for centuries. The temple features peaceful courtyards, elegant pavilions, traditional Vietnamese architecture, and stone steles mounted on the backs of stone turtles that record the names of successful doctoral graduates.
Walking through the temple’s beautifully landscaped gardens offers a glimpse into Vietnam’s deep respect for education and learning. It’s also one of the most photogenic spots in Hanoi, with ornate gates, lotus ponds, and centuries-old trees creating a calm oasis in the middle of the bustling city.
Enjoy the Temple of Literature at night and a 3D show while you learn about Vietnam’s first university.
Watch a Water Puppet Show
The Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre showcases a uniquely Vietnamese art form. A traditional performance at the Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre is a must when visiting Hanoi. Water puppetry is a uniquely Vietnamese art form that dates back to the 11th century and originated in the rice fields of northern Vietnam.
During the show, colorful wooden puppets appear to glide across the water’s surface while hidden puppeteers control them behind the scenes. The performances depict scenes from rural life, local legends, and historical stories, accompanied by traditional Vietnamese music and singing. The combination of storytelling, live music, and intricate puppetry creates a charming and memorable cultural experience that provides insight into Vietnam’s folklore and traditions.
Book your tickets for the Hanoi Water Puppet show in advance to avoid long queues or missing out.
Relax Around Hoan Kiem Lake
Hoan Kiem Lake is the spiritual heart of the city and one of the most iconic stops among the top things to do in Hanoi.
At the center of Hanoi lies the picturesque Hoan Kiem Lake, a peaceful escape surrounded by tree-lined promenades and historic landmarks. Locals gather here early in the morning for tai chi, jogging, and socializing, while visitors enjoy strolling along the scenic paths that circle the lake.
One of the most iconic sights is the beautiful red bridge leading to Ngoc Son Temple, which sits on a small island in the lake. According to legend, the lake is connected to a mythical turtle that returned a magical sword to the gods after a Vietnamese emperor defeated invading forces. Whether you visit at sunrise, sunset, or during the evening when the area becomes a lively pedestrian zone, Hoan Kiem Lake is one of the most relaxing and scenic places in the city.
Discover the Hoa Lo Prison Museum
The Hoa Lo Prison Museum provides a sobering look into Vietnam’s turbulent past. Originally built by the French colonial government in the late 19th century to house Vietnamese political prisoners, the prison later gained international attention during the Vietnam War when it held American prisoners of war.
Exhibits inside the museum detail the harsh conditions endured by inmates and the history of colonial resistance in Vietnam. Visitors can walk through preserved prison cells, view historical photographs, and learn about the experiences of both Vietnamese revolutionaries and foreign prisoners. The museum offers an important perspective on Vietnam’s struggles for independence and the complex history of the region.
Experience Train Street
One of the most unusual attractions in Hanoi is Hanoi Train Street. Here a railway track runs directly through a narrow residential street lined with cafés and homes. Several times a day, a train passes through the street just inches from the buildings, creating a thrilling spectacle for visitors. Before the train arrives, café owners quickly move tables and chairs away from the tracks while spectators gather to watch the dramatic moment. Once the train passes, life returns to normal as people resume sipping coffee and chatting along the trackside. The experience offers a fascinating glimpse into everyday life in Hanoi and has become one of the city’s most photographed spots.
Hanoi Train Street is one of the most photographed Hanoi attractions.
Explore the Imperial Citadel of Thang Long
The ancient Imperial Citadel of Thang Long is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It reflects more than a thousand years of Vietnamese history. Originally built in the 11th century during the Ly Dynasty, the citadel served as the political center of Vietnam for many centuries. Visitors can explore archaeological remains, historic gates, underground bunkers, and ancient foundations that reveal layers of dynasties and cultural influences. The site also played an important role during the Vietnam War, when it was used as a military command center. Today, the citadel offers a fascinating journey through Vietnam’s royal and military past, making it one of the most significant historical sites in Hanoi.
Visit West Lake
West Lake offers a more relaxed atmosphere away from the Old Quarter’s chaos. The expansive West Lake is the largest lake in Hanoi and provides a peaceful retreat from the city’s busy streets. The area is surrounded by leafy boulevards, cafés, and temples. West Lake is a popular place for cycling, jogging, or enjoying a relaxing meal with a view of the water.
One of the most famous landmarks here is the stunning Tran Quoc Pagoda, the oldest Buddhist temple in Hanoi. It sits on a small island connected to the shore by a narrow walkway. Sunset is one of the best times to visit, when the lake reflects the golden hues of the sky and the atmosphere becomes particularly tranquil.
Explore Dong Xuan Market
The bustling Dong Xuan Market is the largest indoor market in Hanoi located on the edge of the Old Quarter. It’s a great place to experience the city’s vibrant trading culture. The multi-level market is packed with vendors selling everything from clothing and textiles to souvenirs, household goods, and local snacks. The atmosphere inside is lively and authentic, with narrow aisles filled with shoppers bargaining for the best deals. In the evening, the surrounding streets come alive with food stalls serving Vietnamese specialties such as grilled meats, fresh spring rolls, and sweet desserts. It’s a fantastic place to sample local flavors and pick up unique souvenirs.
Visit the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology
The Vietnam Museum of Ethnology offers a fascinating look at the country’s rich cultural diversity. Vietnam is home to 54 officially recognized ethnic groups, each with its own traditions, languages, and customs. Inside the museum, visitors can explore exhibitions featuring traditional clothing, musical instruments, household items, and detailed displays explaining the lifestyles of different communities. Outside, a large open-air section showcases full-scale replicas of traditional houses from various ethnic groups, allowing visitors to walk inside and learn how these communities live. The museum provides valuable insight into the cultural heritage that shapes modern Vietnam.
Take a Cooking Class
Taking a Vietnamese cooking class is one of the top things to do in Hanoi experiences. Many classes begin with a guided visit to a local market where you’ll learn about the fresh herbs, spices, and ingredients that define Vietnamese cuisine. Under the guidance of a local chef, you’ll then prepare classic dishes such as fresh spring rolls, pho, or bun cha while learning traditional cooking techniques. Not only do you get to enjoy the delicious meal you create, but you also gain a deeper understanding of the culinary traditions that make Vietnamese food famous around the world.
Enjoy Egg Coffee at a Hidden Café
One of Hanoi’s most unique culinary traditions is egg coffee, a rich and creamy drink made from strong Vietnamese coffee topped with a frothy mixture of egg yolk, sugar, and condensed milk. The drink was invented in the 1940s at Cafe Giang and quickly became a beloved local specialty. Many cafés around the city now serve this indulgent treat, often tucked away in hidden alleyways or on quiet upper floors overlooking busy streets. Sipping egg coffee in one of Hanoi’s cozy cafés is a delightful way to take a break while soaking in the city’s charming atmosphere.
On this tour, you can explore Vietnamese coffee culture by making 6 unique brews, including the iconic salt coffee (my absolute favourite). Learn about history and brewing techniques while experiencing a cultural exchange on coffee.
Day Trip to Halong Bay from Hanoi
A day trip to Ha Long Bay is one of the most unforgettable excursions from Hanoi. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is famous for its emerald waters and thousands of limestone cliffs rising dramatically from the sea. Visitors can explore the bay by boat, kayak through hidden lagoons, visit spectacular caves, and relax on scenic beaches. Many tours also include stops at floating fishing villages where locals have lived for generations. Although it’s a few hours from Hanoi, the breathtaking landscapes of Ha Long Bay make it one of the most popular day trips in northern Vietnam.
Discover French Colonial Architecture
Hanoi’s streets are filled with elegant buildings from the French colonial era, reflecting the period when Vietnam was part of French Indochina. One of the most striking examples is the beautiful Hanoi Opera House, inspired by the famous opera house in Paris. Nearby, visitors can also admire the grand St. Joseph’s Cathedral, a neo-Gothic cathedral that resembles Notre-Dame in Paris. Strolling through neighborhoods such as the French Quarter reveals tree-lined boulevards, pastel-colored villas, and historic government buildings that showcase a fascinating blend of European and Vietnamese architectural styles. This part of the city highlights another layer of Hanoi’s complex and multicultural history.
Final Thoughts: Why You’ll Love the Top Things to Do in Hanoi
From ancient temples and historic museums to chaotic markets and tranquil lakes, the top things to do in Hanoi showcase the city’s extraordinary diversity. Whether you’re exploring the Hanoi Old Quarter, learning history at the Ho Chi Minh Museum, cruising through Halong Bay, or indulging in unforgettable street food, Hanoi delivers culture, flavor, and authenticity in every experience.
If you’re searching for a destination that blends history, adventure, cuisine, and character, the top things to do in Hanoi will exceed your expectations.
Hanoi isn’t just a city you visit, it’s a city you feel.
Happy Travels!
Best Street Food to Try in Hanoi
Exploring local cuisine is one of the absolute top things to do in Hanoi. You can savour the best bites Hanoi has to offer on this street food tour. Hanoi’s food scene is legendary and I’ve got a list of the best street foods to try in the city.
Pho: Vietnam’s most famous noodle soup features fragrant beef broth simmered for hours, rice noodles, and fresh herbs.
Bun Cha: Grilled pork served with vermicelli noodles and dipping sauce. Smoky, savory, and iconic.
Banh Mi: A French-inspired baguette filled with pork, pate, pickled vegetables, and chili.
Cha Ca: Turmeric-marinated fish served sizzling with dill and noodles.
Bun Bo Nam Bo: A fresh noodle salad with beef, peanuts, herbs, and fish sauce dressing.
Nem Ran (Spring Rolls): Crispy fried rolls filled with pork, mushrooms, and glass noodles.
Egg Coffee: Strong Vietnamese coffee topped with whipped egg yolk foam — dessert and caffeine in one.
Sticky Rice (Xoi): A popular breakfast dish topped with mung beans, pork floss, or fried egg.
Frequently Asked Questions About Hanoi
1. How many days do you need in Hanoi?
For most visitors, 3–4 days in Hanoi is a good amount of time. This gives you enough time to explore the Old Quarter, visit the city’s major historical and cultural attractions, sample plenty of Vietnamese food, and still have time to enjoy the city at a relaxed pace. If you plan to take a day trip to Ha Long Bay, 4 days is ideal.
2. What is Hanoi best known for?
Hanoi is best known for its rich history, vibrant Old Quarter, incredible street food, beautiful lakes, traditional Vietnamese culture and French colonial architecture. It is also famous for local specialties such as pho, bun cha and egg coffee. The city offers a fascinating mix of old and new, with ancient temples and historic buildings sitting alongside busy streets, modern cafés and trendy restaurants.
3. What are the top things to do in Hanoi?
Some of the top things to do in Hanoi include wandering through the Old Quarter, visiting Hoan Kiem Lake, exploring the Temple of Literature, seeing a water puppet show, visiting the Ho Chi Minh Complex, exploring the Imperial Citadel of Thang Long and experiencing Hanoi’s famous food scene. If you have extra time, visiting West Lake and taking a cooking class are also worthwhile.
4. Is Hanoi suitable for families with children?
Absolutely. Hanoi can be a fantastic destination for families, particularly for older children who will enjoy the city’s colourful streets, markets, water puppet shows and unusual attractions. A water puppet performance, cooking class, Hoan Kiem Lake and a visit to the Old Quarter are particularly family-friendly experiences. The traffic and busy streets can be challenging with younger children, so you’ll want to take extra care when crossing roads and getting around.
5. What food should you try in Hanoi?
Hanoi is one of the best places in Vietnam to experience authentic Vietnamese cuisine. Pho, bun cha, banh mi, banh xeo, fresh spring rolls and egg coffee are among the must-try dishes. Hanoi is particularly famous for bun cha, a dish of grilled pork served with rice noodles, fresh herbs and dipping sauce.
6. Is Hanoi safe for tourists?
Hanoi is generally considered a safe destination for tourists, but like any major city, it’s important to take normal precautions. Be aware of your belongings in busy markets and crowded areas, use reputable transport services and take particular care around traffic. The biggest challenge for many first-time visitors is crossing Hanoi’s busy roads, where motorbikes can seem to come from every direction!
7. What is the best area to stay in Hanoi?
For first-time visitors, the Old Quarter is one of the most convenient areas to stay because you’re within walking distance of many major attractions, restaurants, cafés and markets. The French Quarter is another excellent option if you prefer a quieter, more elegant atmosphere with beautiful colonial architecture and upscale hotels. West Lake is also worth considering for families or travellers looking for a more relaxed neighbourhood away from the busiest streets.
8. When is the best time to visit Hanoi?
The best time to visit Hanoi is generally from October to April, when temperatures are more comfortable for sightseeing. October, November and March are particularly pleasant, with cooler weather and less intense humidity. Keep in mind that weather can vary considerably, so it’s worth checking the forecast before your trip.
9. Can you visit Ha Long Bay from Hanoi in one day?
Yes, Ha Long Bay can be visited as a day trip from Hanoi, although it makes for a long day. The journey generally takes several hours each way, depending on the transport and route. Day tours typically include a boat cruise around the limestone karsts, lunch and activities such as kayaking or visiting a cave. If you have the time, an overnight cruise allows you to experience more of the bay at a much slower pace, but a day trip is a good option if you’re working with a limited itinerary.
10. How do you get around Hanoi?
Hanoi is relatively easy to explore, particularly if you’re staying in or around the Old Quarter. Walking is one of the best ways to see the city, while taxis and ride-hailing apps are convenient for longer distances. Motorbike taxis are also common, but families may prefer cars for comfort and convenience. For attractions further from the centre, booking a private driver or organised tour can make getting around much easier.
Note: The information here is updated the best we can at the time of writing this article. Please check attractions, activities, and transport before your trip as things tend to change from time to time.
