Hà Nội is a centuries-old city in northern Việt Nam, rich in Chinese influence and lingering French colonial charm.
Hanoi, Vietnam’s charming capital, has a deep history shaped by a rich blend of Chinese and French colonial influences. Located in the northern part of the country, the city offers unique experiences, delicious food, and the famous egg coffee. If you’re planning a trip to Hanoi, read on to find out the best things to do.
Hanoi Overview
My brunch in Hanoi: Crispy pork belly rolls and egg coffee. Photo: Lord Acuña
Country: Vietnam (northern region)
Country Code: +84
Continent: Asia (Southeast)
Currency: Vietnamese Dong (VND)
Airport: Noi Bai International Airport (HAN)
Language: Vietnamese
Best things to do in Hanoi, Vietnam
1. Old Quarter
Đông Kinh Nghĩa Thục Square in the Old Quarter of Hanoi. Photo: Lord Acuña
The Old Quarter in Hanoi is a bustling neighbourhood filled with traditional Vietnamese architecture, historic shops, quaint cafés, and street food stalls. Everything is walkable, and many of the city’s key sights are located in or just steps away from the area. From my experience, it’s best to stay here to make exploring easier.
2. St. Joseph’s Cathedral
A solemn moment inside the St. Joseph Cathedral in Hanoi. Photo: Lord Acuña
Located in the Old Quarter, St. Joseph’s Cathedral is a striking 19th-century neo-Gothic church inspired by Notre Dame in Paris. Although the city is predominantly Buddhist, the cathedral serves as a gathering place for Hanoi’s Catholic community. Completed by French colonists in 1886, it is open for exterior viewing 24/7, while interior access is restricted during Mass.
Location: 1 P. Nhà Thờ, Hàng Trống, Hoàn Kiếm, Hà Nội 100000, Vietnam
Cost: Free
3. Hanoi Train Street
Truly unique to Hanoi, Train Street in the Old Quarter lets you enjoy a coffee while sitting right beside the railway. The narrow tracks run through residential neighbourhoods, and café owners temporarily clear the area whenever a train approaches. Trains run throughout the day, and it’s best to arrive about 20–30 minutes before your planned viewing time to secure a good spot. It’s an unforgettable experience, but be sure to stay cautious at all times.
4. Hoan Kiem Lake
Photo: Vietnam Airlines
Hoàn Kiếm Lake, a 12-hectare freshwater lake, is a major cultural landmark connecting Hanoi’s Old Quarter with the French Quarter. The area is popular for morning Tai Chi, walking, and jogging. On weekends, the road around the lake is closed to traffic, making it an even better spot to enjoy the serene views of this urban oasis. Be sure to look out for Turtle Tower, Ngoc Son Temple, and the Monument of Determination during your visit.
Location: Hoàn Kiếm Ward, Hàng Khay Street, Hanoi, Vietnam
Cost: Free
5. Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum
Located in the centre of Ba Đình Square, the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum is the final resting place of Vietnam’s revolutionary leader and president. Inspired by Lenin’s Tomb in Moscow, the mausoleum was built with Soviet assistance and is surrounded by marble columns, divided into five sections.
Location: 1 Hùng Vương, Điện Biên, Ba Đình, Hà Nội, Vietnam
Opening hours: 07:30 – 11:30
Cost: VND 25,000
6. Vietnam National Museum of History
(L) A phoenix head from the Ly Dynasty. (R) Ho Chi Minh conducting a symphony. Photo: Lord Acuña
The Vietnam National Museum of History houses over 200,000 relics, covering Vietnam’s story from prehistoric times through the colonial era, revolution, and into the present. The museum consists of two adjoining buildings: the first covers Vietnam’s history from prehistoric times to the end of the Nguyễn Dynasty in 1945. While the second one focuses on the country’s history from the mid-19th century to today.
Locations:
No. 1 Trang Tien Street, Trang Tien Ward, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi, Vietnam
216 Tran Quang Khai Street, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi, Vietnam
Opening hours: 08:00 – 17:00
Cost: VND 40,000
7. Get custom-made garments
Have bespoke clothes made by Hanoi’s skilled local artisans, known for their excellent craftsmanship. It’s a great opportunity to elevate your sartorial game with high-quality, custom-made pieces at affordable prices. Another perk? Most tailors in Hanoi offer a fast turnaround, often completing orders within 24 to 72 hours – without compromising on quality.
8. Taste authentic northern Vietnamese food
Dinner with my friend at Chả Cá Thăng Long in Hanoi. Photo: Lord Acuña
Influenced by Chinese cuisine, northern Vietnamese dishes are known for their subtle, balanced flavours. The cooler climate here limits the use of spices, resulting in a milder taste compared to southern dishes. While plain rice is a staple in the south, noodles are more common in the north. Famous dishes to try here are phở bò (beef noodle soup), bún chả (noodle grilled pork), and chả cá (grilled turmeric-marinated catfish).
9. Take a day trip to Ha Long Bay
The view from the peak of Titop Island in Hạ Long Bay. Photo: Lord Acuña
About three hours from Hanoi, Hạ Long Bay is famous for its emerald waters and thousands of towering limestone islands crowned with lush rainforests. A typical day trip includes a scenic cruise through the bay and a visit to Sung Sot Cave. Optional activities are also available, such as kayaking or hiking up to the viewpoint on Titop Island for panoramic views.
Duration: 12 hours or more
Cost: About VND 1,100,000
10. Make a side trip to Ninh Binh
A scenic bike ride in Ninh Binh.
Another easy day trip from Hanoi is Ninh Binh, located about one and a half hours away. Highlights include rowing a traditional sampan through the rice paddies and limestone caves of Tam Coc, climbing Hang Mua Peak for sweeping views, cycling through the peaceful countryside, and enjoying a delicious Vietnamese buffet lunch with plenty of vegetarian options.
Duration: 12 hours or more
Cost: From VND 808,000
Have an amazing time exploring – this guide should help you make the most of a 3–5 day trip to Hanoi!
Discussion
Be the first to comment!