Planning a trip to Vietnam’s capital? Hanoi is a city that beautifully blends tradition and modern life. From ancient temples and French colonial architecture to vibrant street food stalls and lively beer corners, Hanoi is a destination that feels alive at every turn.
In this Hanoi travel guide, we’ll walk you through the top 15 things to do in Hanoi, plus practical tips on when to visit, where to stay, and how to make the most of your journey. Whether it’s your first visit or your fifth, this 2025 guide has everything you need.
Why Visit Hanoi?
Hanoi – the capital of culture and history
Hanoi isn’t just the political heart of Vietnam — it’s also the cultural soul. Founded over 1,000 years ago, the city is a living museum of Vietnamese history. Wander through the Old Quarter and you’ll feel like you’ve stepped back in time, while the French Quarter tells stories of colonial influence with its grand boulevards and pastel-colored villas.
Hanoi is also the gateway to northern Vietnam. From here, you can take day trips to the mystical Perfume Pagoda, the emerald landscapes of Ninh Binh, or even hop on a train to Sapa or Ha Long Bay.
Best time to visit Hanoi
Hanoi has four distinct seasons.
Spring (March – April): Mild weather, blossoming flowers, perfect for city walks.
Summer (May – August): Hot and humid, but full of energy, with afternoon tropical showers.
Autumn (September – November): The most beautiful season — crisp air, golden leaves, and pleasant temperatures.
Winter (December – February): Cool, sometimes chilly (10–18°C / 50–65°F), with cozy vibes perfect for warm bowls of pho.
👉 Tip: If you want the best balance of weather and atmosphere, visit Hanoi in autumn.
Top Things to Do in Hanoi
- Explore the Old Quarter (36 Streets)
The Old Quarter is the beating heart of Hanoi. With its maze of 36 streets, each once dedicated to a particular trade (like silver, silk, or bamboo), it’s a paradise for wanderers. Here, scooters whiz past colonial-era shop houses, and street vendors sell everything from banh mi to souvenirs.
Don’t miss:
St. Joseph’s Cathedral, an iconic Gothic landmark.
Hidden cafes tucked inside narrow alleys.
Traditional tube houses with their long, narrow design. - Visit Hoan Kiem Lake & Ngoc Son Temple
In the middle of Hanoi lies Hoan Kiem Lake, the city’s symbol of peace and legend. Locals come here every morning to practice tai chi, jog, or simply enjoy the fresh air.
On a small island sits Ngoc Son Temple, reached by the iconic red Huc Bridge. At night, the lake glows with reflections of city lights — a magical spot for an evening stroll. - Discover the Temple of Literature
Built in 1070, the Temple of Literature is Vietnam’s first university and a shrine to Confucius. This peaceful complex of courtyards, ancient pavilions, and stone steles is a must-see for history lovers.
Pro tip: Visit early in the morning for fewer crowds and a serene atmosphere. - Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum & Presidential Palace
Pay your respects to Vietnam’s beloved leader at the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum. It’s a solemn experience, with strict dress codes and security, but an essential part of understanding Vietnam’s modern history.
Nearby, you can stroll through the Presidential Palace grounds, built in the French colonial style, and Ho Chi Minh’s stilt house, where he lived a simple life. - One Pillar Pagoda
Just steps from the Mausoleum stands the One Pillar Pagoda, a unique Buddhist temple built in 1049. Its lotus-shaped structure, perched on a single pillar above a pond, symbolizes purity and enlightenment. Despite being small, it’s one of the most photographed Hanoi attractions. - Train Street – a unique railway experience
Few places in the world offer the thrill of Hanoi’s Train Street. Imagine sitting at a tiny café while a train rumbles just inches away! The street is narrow, the experience is unforgettable, and it’s become one of the city’s most Instagrammable spots.
👉 Note: Train schedules can vary, and some sections may be restricted — check with locals or your guide before visiting. - Hanoi Opera House & the French Quarter
Step into elegance at the Hanoi Opera House, a masterpiece inspired by the Palais Garnier in Paris. Even if you don’t attend a performance, the building itself is worth admiring.
The surrounding French Quarter is equally charming — with tree-lined boulevards, art galleries, luxury boutiques, and chic cafes. It’s a refreshing contrast to the Old Quarter’s hustle and bustle. - Explore local markets (Dong Xuan Market)
Markets are the soul of Vietnam, and in Hanoi, Dong Xuan Market is the biggest and busiest. From clothing and electronics to dried seafood and spices, this market has it all.
For a more local vibe, check out night markets on weekends in the Old Quarter — perfect for souvenirs and people-watching. - Try street food (Pho, Bun Cha, Egg Coffee)
No Hanoi travel guide would be complete without food! Hanoi is a culinary wonderland, and street food is the best way to taste it.
Must-try dishes:
Pho: Vietnam’s iconic noodle soup, especially delicious for breakfast.
Bun Cha: Grilled pork with vermicelli, famously enjoyed by Obama and Anthony Bourdain.
Egg Coffee: A Hanoi original — strong coffee topped with creamy, sweet egg foam. - Enjoy a Water Puppet Show
Originating in northern Vietnam, the water puppet show is a traditional art form dating back to the 11th century. Puppeteers perform on water, telling folk tales with music and humor.
The Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre, near Hoan Kiem Lake, is the most famous venue. It’s fun, cultural, and a great way to spend an evening. - Visit the Fine Arts Museum & Ethnology Museum
For art and culture enthusiasts, Hanoi has two excellent museums:
Vietnam Fine Arts Museum: Showcasing traditional lacquer paintings, sculptures, and contemporary works.
Vietnam Museum of Ethnology: A fascinating journey into the lives of Vietnam’s 54 ethnic groups, with artifacts, traditional houses, and interactive exhibits. - Day trip to Perfume Pagoda
About 60 km from Hanoi, the Perfume Pagoda is a sacred Buddhist site nestled among limestone mountains. Getting there involves a scenic boat ride and a hike (or cable car) to the main cave temple.
This spiritual day trip is especially popular during the annual spring festival, when thousands of pilgrims visit. - Day trip to Ninh Binh (Tam Coc, Trang An)
Known as “Ha Long Bay on land,” Ninh Binh is a UNESCO World Heritage Site with dramatic karst mountains, rivers, and rice paddies.
Top spots:
Tam Coc: Boat rides through caves and lush landscapes.
Trang An: Another stunning boat route with hidden temples.
Hoa Lu: The ancient capital of Vietnam.
It’s an easy day trip, but many travelers choose to spend a night here to fully enjoy the scenery. - Nightlife in Hanoi – Beer Street Ta Hien
When the sun sets, head to Ta Hien Street — also known as “Beer Street.” Plastic stools, cheap local beer (bia hoi), and lively crowds create an atmosphere you won’t forget.
It’s a must-do if you want to experience Hanoi’s youthful, energetic nightlife. - Shopping for souvenirs & handicrafts
End your trip with some unique keepsakes. Popular items include:
Lacquerware and hand-painted ceramics.
Embroidered textiles and silk scarves.
Bamboo and rattan crafts.
The Old Quarter is filled with shops, but for higher-end handicrafts, visit Hang Gai Street (Silk Street).
Travel Tips for First-Time Visitors
Transportation in Hanoi
Walking: Best for exploring the Old Quarter.
Cyclo (rickshaw): Fun for short rides.
Taxi/Grab: Affordable and convenient — just download the Grab app.
Motorbike: Adventurous, but traffic can be overwhelming for beginners.
Safety & cultural etiquette
Hanoi is generally safe, but keep these in mind:
Watch your belongings in crowded places.
Dress modestly when visiting temples or the mausoleum.
Always ask before photographing people.
Crossing the street? Walk slowly and steadily — scooters will weave around you!
Suggested itineraries
2 Days in Hanoi:
Day 1 – Old Quarter, Hoan Kiem Lake, Temple of Literature, street food tour.
Day 2 – Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, One Pillar Pagoda, museums, water puppet show.
4 Days in Hanoi:
Days 1–2: Same as above.
Day 3 – Day trip to Ninh Binh.
Day 4 – Perfume Pagoda or a cooking class + shopping.
Where to Stay in Hanoi
Old Quarter (backpackers & mid-range)
If you want to be in the middle of the action, the Old Quarter is perfect. You’ll find budget hostels, boutique hotels, and plenty of restaurants right at your doorstep.
French Quarter (luxury hotels)
For a quieter, more elegant stay, the French Quarter offers luxury hotels and historic charm. Think tree-lined streets, high-end dining, and easy access to cultural sites.
Conclusion
Hanoi is a city that captures hearts. Its mix of ancient traditions, bustling street life, and warm hospitality makes it one of the most rewarding destinations in Southeast Asia.
From sipping egg coffee by Hoan Kiem Lake to exploring centuries-old temples, every corner of Hanoi tells a story waiting to be discovered.
👉 Plan your tailor-made Hanoi tour with Saigon Starverse — where every journey is designed just for you.
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