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Wondering what to do in Hanoi? From ancient temples and colonial architecture to vibrant street food and bustling markets, Hanoi offers an unforgettable experience for first-time visitors. This guide highlights the best activities and must-visit places to help you explore Hanoi to the fullest.
Steeped in history and tradition, Hanoi is home to some of Vietnam’s most significant cultural and historical landmarks. From centuries-old temples to colonial-era architecture, these sites offer a glimpse into the city’s rich past and enduring heritage.
A peaceful oasis in the heart of Hanoi, Hoan Kiem Lake is a favorite spot for both locals and tourists. The lake is home to the iconic Turtle Tower, which stands as a symbol of Hanoi’s rich history, and the stunning Ngoc Son Temple, which sits on Jade Island. According to legend, the lake was where Emperor Le Loi returned a magical sword to the Golden Turtle God, giving the lake its name "Lake of the Returned Sword".
Hoan Kiem Lake - the heart of Hanoi (Source: Internet)
Hanoi’s Old Quarter is a labyrinth of narrow streets, historic shophouses, and vibrant local life. Each street specializes in a particular trade, from silk and silver to traditional medicine. Walking through this area feels like stepping back in time, with its French colonial architecture, ancient temples, and street vendors selling everything from souvenirs to the city’s best street food.
Explore the bustling streets at Old Quarter Hanoi (Source: Internet)
This grand mausoleum is the final resting place of President Ho Chi Minh, Vietnam’s beloved leader. The solemn site attracts thousands of visitors who come to pay their respects. Surrounded by the vast Ba Dinh Square, the mausoleum is a place of national pride and an important symbol of Vietnam’s independence.
Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum - The national pride of Vietnamese (Source: Internet)
West Lake (Ho Tay) is Hanoi’s largest freshwater lake, offering a scenic retreat from the city’s hustle. The lake is surrounded by temples, restaurants, and cafes with breathtaking sunset views.
While exploring the serene environs of West Lake, be sure to visit one of the area's hidden gems: Tran Quoc Pagoda. Located on a small island, the oldest pagoda in Hanoi dates back to the 6th century and is a must-visit for its serene atmosphere and spiritual significance.
Tran Quoc Pagoda is situated by West Lake and Truc Bach Lake (Source: Internet)
Inspired by Notre Dame de Paris, this neo-Gothic cathedral is one of the most beautiful churches in Vietnam. Built in 1886, it stands as a symbol of Hanoi’s colonial past and religious heritage. Its stunning stained-glass windows, towering spires, and peaceful atmosphere make it a must-see landmark.
St.Joseph’s Cathedral is greatly influenced by the design and architecture of Notre Dame - Paris (Source: Internet)
Originally built in 1070, this Confucian temple and Vietnam’s first university is a well-preserved symbol of education and culture. Dedicated to Confucius and scholars, it consists of five courtyards, beautiful gardens, and ancient stone stelae inscribed with the names of graduates from centuries past. It is a place of reverence for students seeking academic success.
Temple of Literature is also known as the first university in Vietnam history (Source: Internet)
Built in 1049, this small yet unique pagoda stands on a single pillar in the middle of a lotus pond, resembling a lotus flower. According to legend, Emperor Ly Thai Tong constructed it after a vision of the Goddess of Mercy presenting him with a son. It is considered one of Vietnam’s most iconic religious structures.
One Pillar Pagoda: A unique architectural wonder in Hanoi (Source: Internet)
Hanoi’s museums offer a fascinating glimpse into the city’s past, showcasing its cultural diversity, wartime struggles, and artistic heritage. For those wondering what to do in Hanoi Vietnam, exploring these museums provides deep insight into the complex history that has shaped the country.
This museum provides an in-depth look at Vietnam’s 54 ethnic groups through artifacts, traditional houses, and cultural exhibits. Its outdoor area features life-sized replicas of traditional stilt houses from different ethnic communities.
One of the unique architecture for housing in Vietnam (Source: Internet)
Known as the "Hanoi Hilton", this former prison was built by the French to detain Vietnamese revolutionaries and was later used during the Vietnam War. The museum presents haunting exhibits, including preserved prison cells, torture instruments, and the flight suit of US Senator John McCain, who was once imprisoned here.
You can join in the Night Tour of Hoa Lo Prison for an unique experience (Source: Internet)
A tribute to Vietnamese women’s contributions to history, culture, and society, this museum highlights their roles in the family, economy, and military. Collections include traditional costumes, everyday objects, and moving wartime stories.
Celebrating the strength, resilience, and cultural contributions of Vietnamese women throughout history (Source: Internet)
A must-visit for history enthusiasts, this museum features war relics, military uniforms, and an outdoor exhibit with aircraft, tanks, and the wreckage of a B-52 bomber.
Vietnam Military History Museum – home to four national treasures (Source: Internet)
Hanoi is a food lover's paradise, known for its incredible variety of street food that blends flavors, textures, and ingredients unique to this region. The city’s food scene is diverse, offering everything from hearty noodle soups to sweet, savory snacks.
Pho is arguably the most famous dish in Vietnam and is an essential part of Hanoi’s street food culture. This aromatic noodle soup is made with clear broth, thinly sliced beef or chicken, and rice noodles, garnished with fresh herbs and bean sprouts. Each bowl is served with lime wedges, chili peppers, and hoisin sauce for a personalized touch.
Northern Pho is a bit different from Southern Pho (Source: Internet)
Bun Cha is another iconic Hanoi dish made of grilled pork (either fatty or lean) served with a deliciously sweet-sour fish sauce and a side of rice noodles and fresh herbs. This dish gained international fame after President Obama’s visit to Hanoi, where he enjoyed it with the late chef Anthony Bourdain.
Bun cha Hanoi is usually paired with fried spring rolls (Source: Internet)
Xoi is a traditional Vietnamese breakfast dish made of sticky rice, topped with a variety of savory or sweet ingredients. Common toppings include fried onions, boiled chicken, pork, or mung beans. It’s a simple yet hearty dish that will give you an authentic taste of Hanoi’s street food culture.
Xoi is eaten with various toppings, from sweet to savoury (Source: Internet)
Banh Mi is a fusion of French and Vietnamese cuisine, a sandwich made with a crusty baguette, stuffed with a variety of fillings such as meats, vegetables, and herbs. The sandwich is often accompanied by a tangy pickled carrot and daikon salad, making it a delicious and satisfying snack.
A delicious fusion of crispy baguette, savory fillings, and fresh herbs (Source: Internet)
This is a dish unique to Hanoi, made with fish marinated in turmeric and served sizzling hot with rice noodles, herbs, and peanuts. It is served at a special street eatery, Cha Ca La Vong, which has been around for over a century.
Cha ca La Vong is always served with dills, fresh herbs and shrimp paste (Source: Internet)
Bun Thang is a Hanoi specialty noodle soup made from clear broth with chicken, boiled eggs, and pork, topped with fried onions and herbs. This dish has a delicate balance of flavors and is a true representation of Hanoi’s culinary mastery.
The sweet broth is made from chicken broth and dried shrimp - creating an unique flavor (Source: Internet)
Egg coffee is a sweet and creamy drink made by mixing egg yolks, sugar, condensed milk, and Vietnamese coffee. It’s a comforting and unique treat, offering a smooth and rich flavor unlike any other coffee you’ve tasted.
Egg yolks are whipped until foamy with sugar, served with dark black coffee (Source: Internet)
For a truly unique way to experience the hustle and bustle of Hanoi, take a cyclo tour around the Old Quarter. The traditional three-wheeled bicycle rickshaws are perfect for leisurely exploration. With a local driver guiding you through narrow streets lined with colonial architecture and street vendors, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped back in time.
Cyclo are easily spotted around Hanoi Old Quarter (Source: Internet)
One of the most iconic cultural experiences in Hanoi is watching a Water Puppet Show. This ancient Vietnamese art form has been practiced for centuries and was originally performed in rural areas during the rainy season. The shows take place on a small pool of water, with puppeteers controlling beautifully crafted wooden puppets to enact stories about Vietnamese history, myths, and daily life.
A captivating traditional performance showcasing Vietnam's rich cultural heritage through colorful puppets and live music (Source: Internet)
Hanoi offers a vibrant and diverse nightlife scene, with plenty of bars, nightclubs, and outdoor spaces to explore after dark. Whether you prefer a quiet drink with friends, enjoying street performances, or dancing the night away, there’s something for everyone.
Known as Hanoi’s "Beer Street", Ta Hien Street comes alive at night with locals and tourists enjoying cheap beer and street food. The atmosphere here is energetic and buzzing with activity. Sit down at one of the many outdoor tables and sip on Bia Hoi (fresh beer) while people-watching.
Ta Hien street from above during the weekend (Source: Internet)
The Dong Xuan Night Market is a must-visit for those looking to shop, eat, and experience Hanoi’s vibrant night scene. Stretching over several blocks, the market features street vendors selling everything from clothes and souvenirs to local snacks. It’s a great place to enjoy a bustling local atmosphere.
No visit to Hanoi is complete without experiencing Bia Hoi, Vietnam’s iconic fresh beer. Brewed daily and served at sidewalk beer stalls, Bia Hoi is light, crisp, and refreshing. It’s best enjoyed with a group of friends and paired with local snacks such as peanuts, fried rice cakes, or spring rolls.
Fresh beer is served with snacks, from afternoon to late night (Source: Internet)
For a breathtaking view of the city, head to one of Hanoi’s rooftop bars. Whether you’re enjoying a cocktail or simply soaking in the panoramic views of the bustling streets below, rooftop bars offer a perfect blend of atmosphere and stunning vistas.
Top of Hanoi’s sunset view is a must-see (Source: Internet)
Hanoi is a fascinating city with plenty to offer. To make your trip even more enjoyable, here are some useful tips:
From exploring its rich history through museums and iconic landmarks to indulging in the city’s vibrant street food scene and bustling nightlife, Hanoi offers an unforgettable experience. If you're wondering what to do in Hanoi, this guide is your essential companion.
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