Hanoi – Vietnam’s capital with over 1,000 years of history

Hanoi is a fascinating and captivating destination for those who love travel and exploring local culture. Not only is Hanoi the capital and the political, cultural, and educational center of Vietnam, but it is also a land with a rich history spanning thousands of years.

Many residents of the capital take great pride in introducing Hanoi as the land of a thousand years of civilization, a place closely associated with the heroic legends of Vietnam’s national history. With its strategically important location, Hanoi was once the imperial capital of many ancient dynasties such as the Đinh, Lý, Trần, and Lê.

According to historical records, in the year 1010, King Lý Thái Tổ chose Cổ Loa as the capital and named it Thăng Long, which means “Rising Dragon.” From then on, Thăng Long became a symbol of the nation’s prosperity and growth. Over nearly a thousand years, Thăng Long has had many names, including Đông Đô, Đông Kinh, and Bắc Thành, until it was officially renamed Hanoi in 1831.

The best things to do in Hanoi

Discover the best things to do in Hanoi, Vietnam’s bustling capital, from exploring ancient temples and sampling street food delicacies to strolling through vibrant markets and enjoying scenic views of the city’s iconic landmarks.

1. Explore the Old Quarter on foot

The Old Quarter of Hanoi (Hanoi Old Quarter) is the most famous landmark in Hanoi. It is a fascinating part of the city where you can enjoy many beautiful examples of colonial architecture that is packed along narrow streets. Endless traffic of scooters, motorcycles, bicycles and cars zigzag around traders who sell fruit and souvenirs and narrow shops with delicious Vietnamese dishes.

Hanoi Old Quarter brings to life what many people imagine what Hanoi is. Exploring this area on foot is one of the best things to do in Hanoi. You can also rent bicycles or go through the streets with a cyclo.

2. Street food tour

Vietnamese are the most proud of their food and it is being sold on each corner; both in restaurants and on the street (street food) You’ll see Street food in Hanoi everywhere you look; stalls on the sidewalk along the side of the road with often plastic blue stools around where they sell local food. Every street food stall is specialized in a certain dish and everything is freshly made. Eating at one of the stalls is often very tasty and a great local experience.

3. Water puppet show

The old art form of the water puppet show in Hanoi is certainly one of the nicest things to see. There are several theaters where you can enjoy this unique Vietnamese take on Asian puppetry tradition. The original and generally regarded as the best theater in the city is the Thang Long Puppet Theater. Dolls dance and glide elegantly across the stage of water, controlled by a whole group of dolls of masters hiding behind a screen.

4. Drink Bia Hoi – the cheapest beer in the world

One of the best things to do in Hanoi is indulging in Bia Hoi, the world’s cheapest beer. While the taste may not appeal to everyone, the true allure lies in the unique experience of sitting on small stools amidst locals on the street, immersing yourself in the vibrant atmosphere and becoming a part of the local culture.

5. Long Bien Bridge & Market

Long Biên Bridge is an iconic structure spanning the Red River in Hanoi, Vietnam. Built during the French colonial era, the bridge played a vital role in both the Indochina War and the Vietnam War. Today, it is a popular spot to stroll across, take in the views of the river and city, and experience the bustling Long Bien market located nearby. At the market, you can immerse yourselve in the vibrant local culture and sample a variety of delicious street foods.

6. Hoan Kiem Lake

Hoan Kiem Lake is a central point in Hanoi and is a popular meeting place for locals and tourists all day long. Ngoc Son Temple is located on a small island in the middle of the lake and is connected by a bridge and forms a beautiful backdrop for a few photos.

Around sunrise and sunset this area becomes especially busy with joggers, couples enjoying the relaxing view of the lake, and elderly people practicing Tai Chi and line dancing.

7. Walk around the Hoa Lo Prison Museum

A visit to the Hoa Lo Prison Museum is one of the best things to do in Hanoi as it provides a glimpse into the darker side of Vietnam’s history. The prison, also known as the “Hanoi Hilton,” was used to hold political prisoners during the French colonial period and later American prisoners of war during the Vietnam War. You can see the original cells and artifacts from the prison’s past, as well as learn about the stories of the prisoners held there.

8. Visit Mausoleum on Ba Dinh Square

Visiting the Ho Chi Minh museum is a must for anyone interested in Vietnamese history and culture. The mausoleum houses the preserved body of Vietnam’s beloved revolutionary leader, Ho Chi Minh, and offers a unique opportunity to pay respect to one of the most important figures in Vietnamese history.

9. Hanoi train street

Another great thing to do in Hanoi is a visiting Hanoi Train Street. The photos and videos are world famous, in which shop owners, café owners and residents, as if it were the most normal thing in the world, put away their things to let a train pass through the narrow, busy street.

Due to safety regulations, many coffee shops along the train street had to close, but you can still visit this unique railroad track through the residential area. Just keep in mind that there are real trains on this track.

10. Visit the St. Joseph’s Cathedral

11. Walk around the West Lake and Tran Quoc Pagoda

Walking around the West Lake and visiting the Tran Quoc Pagoda is one of the best things to do in Hanoi as it provides a peaceful and scenic escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. The Tran Quoc Pagoda is the oldest temple in Hanoi and features a stunning seven-story pagoda and many intricate statues and carvings. Additionally, the West Lake area has many great restaurants and cafes where you can relax and enjoy the serene surroundings.

12. Take a cyclo tour of the city

Taking a cyclo tour in Hanoi is a great way to explore the city’s sights and sounds. Visitors can expect to see landmarks such as Hoan Kiem Lake, the Old Quarter, and the French Quarter, while also experiencing the bustling street life and local culture up close. It’s a unique and memorable way to discover Hanoi’s charms.

12. See the ancient Temple of Literature

The Temple of Literatune is a well-preserved example of traditional Vietnamese architecture and design, making it a must-visit for anyone interested in history and culture. As the site of Vietnam’s first university, the temple also holds great significance for the country’s educational and intellectual history. Visitors can enjoy peaceful gardens, intricate pagodas, and learn about the country’s ancient scholars and their academic pursuits.

13. Explore Imperial City of Thang Long

Exploring the Imperial City of Thang Long is a must-do in Hanoi because it offers a glimpse into the country’s rich history and culture. The UNESCO World Heritage Site features centuries-old structures, including the imposing Hanoi Flag Tower and the breathtakingly beautiful Doan Mon Gate. You can stroll through the vast courtyards and gardens, admire ancient relics and artifacts, and learn about the dynasties that once ruled over the region.

14. Stilt house & Presidential palace

The Stilt House and Presidential Palace in Hanoi offer a glimpse into Vietnam’s political history. You can see where Ho Chi Minh lived and worked, and explore the grounds that were once the residence of the French Governor-General.

15. Cycling in Hanoi

Cycling in Hanoiis a great way to explore the city and experience the local life. Although the traffic might seem intimidating at first, it is completely safe with a guide who can lead you through the best routes and help you navigate the streets. Cycling allows you to see more than just the Old Quarter and provides an authentic glimpse into the daily lives of Hanoians.

16. Visit traditional villages

There are several traditional villages surrounding Hanoi that offer a glimpse into rural Vietnamese life and crafts. Bat Trang is known for its ceramic pottery, Van Phuc for silk weaving, and Dong Ho for woodblock printing. You can experience the traditional production techniques and purchase handmade goods directly from the artisans.

17. See the One Pillar Pagoda

18. Hanoi Ceramic Mosaic Mural

19. Shop at the Dong Xuan Market

20. Visit the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology

21. Wake up early for the Quang Ba Flower Market

22. Enjoy the sunset of a rooftop bar

23.Visit the Women’s Museum

24.Explore Ninh Binh in a day

A day tour from Hanoi to Ninh Binh is a popular option for those who want to escape the city and experience the beautiful countryside. You can choose to take the Tam Coc or Trang An boat trip to enjoy the scenic karst landscape. Mua Cave viewpoint is also a nice spot to enjoy the panoramic view of the region. For a more immersive experience, you can also cycle around the countryside.

However, if you have the time, it is recommended to stay in Ninh Binh for at least 2 days or longer to fully explore the area.

25. Take a day trip to the Perfume Pagoda

Local events and holidays

Tet: Lunar New Year is the mega festival of Vietnam to celebrate with family members and to commemorate the dear deceased. The holiday lasts up to a week when many stores are closed.
Full Moon Festival: This festival, also known as the Mid-Autumn Festival, starts on the 15th day of the eighth month of the lunar calendar, usually mid-September or early October. You will see things like singing and dragon dance.
Hanoi Pride: The annual Hanoi Pride festival is a colorful week full of parties, film screenings, lectures and a bicycle rally. It is held for a week between July and September.
Vietnam’s National Day: celebrated with a rally and fireworks in front of the Ho Chi Minh mausoleum. There are also boat races on Lake Hoan Kiem.
Quang Trung Festival: Wrestling competitions, lion dances and human chess take place on the 5th day of the first lunar month.

Best time to visit

Best travel time: Fall (around September to November) and spring (March and April) are the two best seasons. Then the weather is pleasant with milder temperatures.
Winter: During this period (December to February) it is quite cold in Hanoi when temperatures can drop below 10 degrees.
Summer: It is very hot in Hanoi from May to August, with July as the hottest month. A lot of rain can fall.

How to get there

Hanoi is a major transportation hub in the north of Vietnam. Hanoi connects with international flights, domestic flights, trains from the south and bus connections to every town in the north and central Vietnam.

Flights to Hanoi

Hanoi has fewer direct international flights than Ho Chi Minh City. Read all about flights to Vietnam here.

Jetstar Airways, VietJet Air and Vietnam Airlines connect Hanoi with destinations throughout Vietnam. Popular routes are Hanoi to Dalat, Da Nang, Ho Chi Minh City, Hue, Nha Trang and Phu Quoc, all daily flights. Read more about booking domestic flights in Vietnam here.

Buses to Hanoi

Hanoi has four major bus stations. They are fairly well organized, with ticket offices, fixed prices and schedules. It is often easier to book through a travel agent. From Hanoi there are buses to everywhere in Vietnam such as Sapa, Da Nang, Dalat, Hue, Ninh Binh. Cao Bang and Ha Giang. Many open-ticket bus tours through Vietnam start or end in Hanoi.

Tourist minibuses can be booked at most hotels and travel agents. Popular destinations are Halong Bay and Sapa. Prices are usually about 30% to 40% higher than those of the regular public bus, but include a hotel pick up service.

Trains to Hanoi

The train station is in the center. You can buy tickets for trains that can take you all the way south to Ho Chi Minh City, or north to Sapa and across the border to China.

How to get around

Hanoi’s taxis have meters, but not all drivers want to use them. The problem with taking a taxi is that they cannot all speak English well. The most reliable taxis are: Hanoi Taxi, Mai Linh Taxi and Taxi CP. A good alternative is to use the Grab taxi app.

Metro: Hanoi is working hard to build a metro network. It is expected that the first connections can be used by 2021.

Cyclo are Hanoi’s bicycle taxis. Passengers drive in the front cabin, while the driver is behind the passenger. Cyclo cabins are made for two passengers and are ideal for exploring short distances in the center of Hanoi.

Xe Om are Hanoi motorbike taxis. You will find them especially on street corners. The best way to use an Xe Om is with the Grab app.