Things To Do In Hanoi Vietnam – Travel Guide Hanoi

Introduction To Hanoi Vietnam Travel

“Things to do in Hanoi” is the top search among tourists to Vietnam thanks to the relentless popularity of this capital city. As the headquarters of Vietnam with a millennium year of civilization, Hanoi has numerous attractions for travelers.

Not only does it accommodate important agencies, but it’s also home to the time-honored culture of Vietnam. A visit to Hanoi will give you the best glimpse of this country. It welcomes you to centuries-old buildings, Vietnam-featured ways of living, and an enjoyable atmosphere.

Things To Do In Hanoi - Vietnam Limousine Transfers

Vietnam Limousine takes great pleasure in being your travel guide book Hanoi. Our blog Things To Do In Hanoi Vietnam – Travel Guide Hanoi will tell you all about useful Hanoi travel tips and the best things to do in Hanoi.

What can you do in Hanoi Vietnam? What not to miss in Hanoi? Let’s find out right below.

Hanoi Transportation

As a significant city in Vietnam, there are various means of transportation in Hanoi. It’s convenient for travelers to come and go with flights, buses, trains, rental cars, or even motorcycles. To visualize it better, you can take a look at the following Hanoi map:

Moreover, you may be interested in our luxury Hanoi limousine transfers to popular destinations in Vietnam, such as:

Our Hanoi luxury car transport will bring you pleasant trips to the new lands with top-class service. We’re best for friend groups and families with small kids and the elderly.

Besides, for getting around in Hanoi, you can choose public transportation like local buses or private means like taxis, rental scooters, and bikes. If you prefer a touristy experience, you should go for cyclos, double-decker buses, or vintage Vespas.

Travel in Hanoi by cyclo - Vietnam Limousine Transfers

Best Time To Visit Hanoi

Hanoi’s weather is imbued with the features of a tropical monsoon climate, which brings hot summers with high precipitation and cold winters with less rain.

Four seasons are clearly seen in this city with different features:

  • Spring is pleasant with cool air and slight rain.
  • Summer is extremely hot and wet with long heatwaves and unpredictable rain.
  • Autumn is cooler than summer but less rain than the winter.
  • Winter is freezing and wet.

Despite the differences among seasons, Hanoi’s distinctive beauty makes them show different charms. Thus, you can come at any time as long as it’s convenient for your travel plans.

In short, however, what is the best time to visit Hanoi? Spring (February to April) and autumn (late August to October) are highly recommended as they tend to be neither too rainy nor hot.

Autumn in Hanoi usually leaves you with a blue sky and cool air to go around, visit the attractions, and picnic. Also, spring is a good time to watch local flowers and enjoy the vivid atmosphere of the Tet holiday.

Autumn in Hanoi - Vietnam Limousine Transfers
Autumn in Hanoi – Vietnam Limousine Transfers

What To Do In Hanoi Vietnam?

Must-See Attractions In Hanoi

With long-standing culture and development, Hanoi has many noticeable constructions that are absolutely worth visiting. Therefore, visiting famous attractions is a must-do in Hanoi. Refer to the list below to jot down interesting places in your travel bucket list.

Imperial Citadel Of Thang Long

Imperial Citadel of Thang Long - Vietnam Limousine Transfers

With a 1300-year history, the Imperial Citadel of Thang Long now stands tall as a World Heritage and a witness to Vietnamese civilization. It accommodates important monuments, original relics, and many unique artifacts that prove the national history.

Its establishment is a milestone for ancient Vietnam’s independence. Over 13 centuries of serving as a political and power center, it has greatly reflected Southeast Asian culture.

  • Address: 19c Hoang Dieu Street, Dien Bien Ward, Ba Dinh District, Ha Noi
  • Entrance fee: 30,000 VND/ticket
  • Opening time: 08:00-14:30 (whole week)

Hanoi Old Quarter

Hanoi Old Quarter - Vietnam Limousine Transfers

Growing with the development of Thang Long-Ha Noi, the Old Quarter has existed for centuries. It has saved the history, culture, traditions, and most Hanoian features for the next generations.

This lively trade area will offer you interesting traditional craft guilds, markets with diverse products, ancient houses, and other original relics. The new era’s vibrant atmosphere and the past’s spirit blend harmoniously in its streets, creating a novel attraction.

  • Address: Hoan Kiem District, Ha Noi
  • Entrance fee: fee-charging at some places
  • Opening time: all-day

Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum

Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum - Vietnam Limousine Transfers

Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum is a solid and solemn construction where a legendary figure of Vietnam rests in peace. Visitors can come to show their respect to President Ho Chi Minh and learn about his great life.

Apart from the main building, its expansive surrounding ground is worth a stroll. The large front yard is called Ba Dinh Square, which is neatly arranged and normally used for important events. Besides, you can pass by the Presidential Palace, his Stilt House and Fish Pond, the Ho Chi Minh Museum, and the iconic One Pillar Pagoda.

Please remember to wear polite clothes, keep your voice down, and strictly follow the rules when visiting this place.

  • Address: 02 Hung Vuong Street, Dien Bien Ward, Ba Dinh District, Ha Noi
  • Entrance fee: free
  • Opening time: morning (whole week apart from Monday and Friday)

Hoan Kiem Lake

Hoan Kiem Lake - Vietnam Limousine Transfers

Hoan Kiem Lake is an iconic image of Hanoi for its mirror-like water surface and a unique tower rising up in the middle. It is a 12-hectare-wide natural lake expanding through a bunch of streets in Hanoi.

Hoan Kiem Lake is a remarkable attraction in Hanoi as it’s connected to a historical legend and many relics. Going along the lake, you can come across some historical relics such as Turtle Tower, Ngoc Son Temple, The Huc Bridge, and so on.

  • Address: Hang Trong Ward, Hoan Kiem District, Ha Noi
  • It’s free to visit and open all day.

One Pillar Pagoda

One Pillar Pagoda - Vietnam Limousine Transfers

One Pillar Pagoda is one of Hanoi’s most long-established and unique pagodas. Its exclusive architecture, sacred atmosphere, and great significance have turned it into the most iconic religious monument in the capital city.

One Pillar Pagoda is located within the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum’s ground and near many impressive constructions. It would be best if you walked around this area to enjoy them all.

  • Address: Chua Mot Cot Street, Doi Can Ward, Ba Dinh District, Ha Noi
  • Entrance fee: 25,000 VND/person
  • Opening hours: 07:00-18:00 (also depending on Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum opening time)

Tran Quoc Pagoda

Tran Quoc Pagoda - Vietnam Limousine Transfers

Tran Quoc Pagoda Hanoi has perfectly immersed itself in its surroundings, embellishing Hanoi for centuries. It is considered among the most long-standing constructions in Hanoi with 1500-year longevity. Back then, it was the center of Buddhism in Vietnam.

Nestled in a tranquil scenery and a vast gentle pond, Tran Quoc Pagoda gives off sacredness and solemnity. With such historical, architectural, and religious meanings, it has fascinated numerous visitors.

  • Address: 46 Thanh Nien Street, Yen Phu Ward, Tay Ho District, Ha Noi
  • Entrance fee: free
  • Opening hours: 08:00-16:00 (whole week)

Temple Of Literature Hanoi

Hanoi Temple of Literature - Vietnam Limousine Transfers

Temple of Literature in Hanoi is well-known as the very first university in Vietnam. Similar to other ancient constructions in Hanoi, this monument contributes a historic mellow feature to the city.

Set up in 1070, the Temple of Literature has saved a great deal of valuable relics and documents. Visitors can go around to see thousand-year-old walls, Khue Van Pavillion, lotus ponds, and especially 82 priceless stele records (UNESCO Memory of the World Programme).

  • Address: 58 Quoc Tu Giam Street, Van Mieu Ward, Dong Da District, Ha Noi
  • Entrance fee: 30,000 VND/ticket
  • Opening time: 08:00-17:00 (whole week)

Long Bien Bridge

Long Bien Bridge - Vietnam Limousine Transfers

Long Bien Bridge spans over the Red River and connects three districts of Hanoi. Officially going into operation in 1903, Long Bien Bridge has witnessed this land in ups and downs. It sticks to Hanoians’ daily life so much that it has become an endearing figure in many native hearts.

Many travelers love to go for a stroll on this bridge, admire its special architecture, enjoy the river’s views, and watch the locals passing by.

  • Address: Ngoc Thuy Ward, Hoan Kiem District, Ha Noi
  • It’s free to visit and open all day.

Unique Things To Do In Hanoi

Although the popular attractions are worth seeing, some may find them well-worn and prefer more local experiences. Thus, we would like to introduce several cool things to do in Hanoi. Check them out as follows.

Hoan Kiem Lake Walking Street

Hoan Kiem Lake Walking Street - Vietnam Limousine Transfers

If you love to experience real Hanoi nightlife, wandering around Hoan Kiem Lake Walking Street is probably your first choice. Usually open at 6 o’clock on Friday and closed on Monday, it seems like a vivid weekend getaway for Hanoians and visitors.

You will be treated to a whole space of local amusements, ranging from dancing and street performances to street food stalls.

SUP In West Lake

Things to do in Hanoi West Lake Hanoi SUP - Vietnam Limousine Transfers

SUP, or Standing-Up Padding, has become in vogue recently, especially in summer days. The large West Lake, with its smooth flow and elegant scenery, is perfectly fit for doing SUP or kayaking.

How wonderful to wake up in the refreshing early morning and float on the lake to take in the tranquil beauty of Ha Noi. Five to seven is the highly recommended time for this activity. Or you can go in the late afternoon when you get a nice sunset and cool air.

You can find rental SUP and kayak stores along the lake banks in Lac Long Quan, Au Co, or Trich Sai streets. The prices range from 150,000-400,000 VND depending on rental time.

Beer Street Hanoi

What To Do In Hanoi: Join Beer Street - Vietnam Limousine Transfers

Drink like a local with the coolest nightlife street in Hanoi. Beer Street is a term for the area of many beverage stores. They’re all located on some streets in the Old Quarter, among which Ta Hien, Bao Khanh, and Luong Ngoc Quyen are the most popular.

Visitors can engage in the special beer-drinking of the locals. There are no luxurious stores but small tables and chairs all over the pathways. People sit together and drink together in an open space, which reflects the friendliness of the Vietnamese.

Local Markets

Things To Do In Hanoi: shop at Dong Xuan Market - Vietnam Limousine Transfers

Dong Xuan Market

Dong Xuan Market, or Big Market, is the most frequent spot for visitors if they want to see local commercial activities and buy souvenirs. As the biggest market in the Northern area, Dong Xuan Market sells all ranges of products like clothes, furniture, and both fresh and processed food. It is also a part of the Old Quarter.

Long Bien Market

If you love to enjoy all the bustle and hustle of nightlife in Hanoi, you may not want to miss Long Bien Market. Located under the Long Bien Bridge, this market seems not to sleep as 3-4 AM is its peak time. A variety of farm products are in stock here. Come and see another angle of Hanoi nightlife.

Quang Ba Flower Market

Hanoi is famous for the title “12 seasons of flowers”, so a flower market in Hanoi is obviously a must-see for floral lovers. Quang Ba Market features diverse flower types and late-night activities. It provides a great deal of colorful blossoms and only opens from 10 PM to around 5 AM.

Lotte Observation Deck

Get a Hanoi panorama from Lotte Center - Vietnam Limousine Transfers

Situated on the 65th floor of Lotte Center, this observation deck will give you a magnificent panorama of Hanoi city. When standing at such a height, you will get a unique view and an amazing sense of floating up in the sky.

It opens from 9 AM to midnight, giving visitors Hanoi views at nearly all times of the day. An entrance ticket is 180,000 VND for a visitor above 12, 120,000 VND for a visitor from 3 to 12, and free for an under-3 visitor.

Must-Eat Food In Hanoi

A food tour in Hanoi definitely comes up in many visitors’ minds when planning their trip to this city. So, what to eat in Hanoi? Some following recommendations may make your appetite grow.

Pho

Best things to do in Hanoi: eat Pho - Vietnam Limousine Transfers

Pho is an iconic dish of Vietnam and the best place to enjoy this must be Ha Noi. Maybe it’s needless to say too much about this special food. The charming combination of sweet broth, soft noodles, and fragrant herbs fascinated every foodie.

Bun (Noddle Dishes)

Bun Cha Hanoi - Vietnam Limousine Transfers

Hanoi cuisine is also famous for various types of bun, such as bun cha, bun thang, bun oc, bun moc, and so on. A bowl of bun costs from 20,000-50,000 VND, depending on the serving, ingredients, qualities, and other factors. You can find good bun dish vendors or stores around the Old Quarter.

Cha Ca (Turmeric Fish With Dill)

Cha Ca Hanoi - Vietnam Limousine Transfers

Cha ca is another favorite specialty among the locals and visitors. The firm white fish filet is marinated with turmeric and other seasons. Everything is mixed together, well cooked, and served with dill, giving tender bites with impressive flavor. This dish goes well with rice papers, bun (noodles), and shrimp paste.

Recommended cha ca restaurants: Cha ca La Vong (14 Cha Ca Street), Cha ca Thang Long (21 Duong Thanh Street), and Cha ca Lao Ngu (171 Thai Ha Street).

Banh Tom Ho Tay (Shrimp Cake)

Banh Tom Ho Tay Shrimp Cake Hanoi - Vietnam Limousine Transfers

You can find this shrimp cake dish in many other places in Vietnam, but tasting its original version is the most satisfying experience. You can enjoy this dish at a renowned restaurant established since 1956 (01 Thanh Nien Street, Ba Dinh, Hanoi). It has a good lake view, makes dishes out of fresh shrimp from the lake, and was featured in an international channel.

Egg Coffee

A thing To Do In Hanoi: drink egg coffee - Vietnam Limousine Transfers

If you love Vietnamese coffee with some Hanoi features, a cup of egg coffee is worth a try. The yolk and condensed milk are well beaten together, which creates a foam to put above the dark coffee. It will bring you a sweet, creamy, and tender taste.

Besides, you should probably try drip coffee, yogurt coffee, coconut coffee, black coffee, and coffee with condensed milk.

What To Buy In Hanoi?

“What should I buy in Hanoi?” is also one of the most common questions among tourists to Hanoi. Hanoi has several natural specialties and elaborate handicrafts that visitors can get home as a souvenir. We will give you some suggestions about things that you must buy in Hanoi.

Com (Young Sticky Rice)

Com Cake Hanoi Young Sticky Rice - Vietnam Limousine Transfers

Cốm is made from young sticky rice, which is a sophisticated dish of Hanoi. It can be used to create other delicious dishes. Yet, com cake is highly suggested for a souvenir, as its expiration dates are longer (from 3-6 days).

You can find excellent com stores on Hang Than Street in the north of Hanoi Old Quarter, where the com cakes with the most original tastes are in high stock. You can get one cake for only 5,000-8,000 VND.

Lotus Tea

Lotus Tea - Vietnam Limousine Transfers

Lotus tea brings a sense of soul purification with each sip thanks to its natural ingredients and elaborate making process. It is the quintessence of Hanoi cuisine with great health benefits. If com cakes are too quick to expire for faraway travelers, lotus tea is a more feasible option with a year duration.

You can find the best-quality lotus tea at Quang An Ward, the traditional lotus tea guild. Authentic lotus tea costs from 600,000 to 1,000,000 VND for 100 grams.

Bat Trang Pottery

Bat Trang Pottery Hanoi - Vietnam Limousine Transfers

Pottery products made by Bat Trang Pottery Village are among the top-quality ones in Vietnam. Bat Trang is a traditional craft guild with original techniques and an exclusive glaze color. They manufacture various objects, from normal household things to gifts (wind bells, statues, and so on). Moreover, you can create a piece of pottery yourself at Bat Trang Village and bring it home.

Silk

Van Phuc Silk Village Hanoi - Vietnam Limousine Transfers
Van Phuc Silk Village Hanoi – Vietnam Limousine Transfers

Silk may be the most portable souvenir to bring home, so it is preferred by many tourists. Its softness, thinness, and color fastness create products of diverse types. Visitors can easily find a suitable item to buy as a gift, such as scarves, bags, clothes, etc., regardless of season.

Van Phuc Silk Village (located 10 kilometers away from Hanoi center) is the most renowned for high-quality silk. Furthermore, silk shops on Hang Gai Street or Dinh Liet Street in the Old Quarter sell valid items.

FAQs

What Is Worth Visiting Hanoi?

Hanoi is definitely worth visiting. As the capital city of Vietnam, Hanoi has saved a thousand-year civilization with a rich culture and proud history. Visitors can enjoy historical monuments, special cuisines, local ways of living, hospitality, and a refreshing atmosphere when coming to this city.

What To Experience In Hanoi?

Hanoi Vietnam accommodates a wide range of heritages, relics, entertainment facilities, culinary excellence, and so on. Some highlights are Thang Long Imperial Citadel, Hoan Kiem Lake, Tran Quoc Pagoda, Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, and so on.

How Long To Spend In Hanoi?

For a fulfilling visit to Hanoi, we recommend spending 3-5 days on your Hanoi tour. Exclusive attractions, diverse local experiences, and unique cuisine will fill up your visiting time. Moreover, if you have a week in Hanoi, you can even add Halong Bay, a UNESCO wonder, to your journey.

What To Avoid In Hanoi?

  • Extreme weather: Hanoi has intense heatwaves (sometimes above 40 Degrees Celcius) and freezing airwaves (sometimes down to 10 Degrees Celcius). So, if you cannot tolerate such types of weather, you should avoid going in summer and winter.
  • Overprices: Some sellers try to increase the prices for tourists, so you should ask about the prices before buying things or using any services. You can also ask for price advice from the staff in your hotel.
  • Getting lost: Streets in Hanoi are complicated and full of traffic. Please do not forget to use Google Maps on your travel.
  • Unsuitable food: Not every food in a new place is suitable for your stomach, so you should watch out when trying new dishes.
  • Pickpocket: Similar to many places, tourists to Hanoi may encounter pocket pickers. Although it’s not too frequent, you should stay alert.

Is It Safe To Travel To Hanoi?

Definitely. Hanoi was listed as a safe travel destination by Tripzilla. It is evaluated as a safe place even for a woman’s solo travel with a low crime rate, friendly people, and great hospitality towards tourists.

Is It Safe To Walk In Hanoi At Night?

It’s generally safe in Hanoi, even at night. Yet, you should avoid walking on dark and uncrowded lanes at night. There are some good things to do in Hanoi at night, such as wandering around the Old Quarter, but in general, Hanoi nightlife is not as bustle as other cities.

What To Do In Hanoi In December?

  • Enjoy beautiful scenery: December in Hanoi is considered the time for season change, so it offers poetic views. You should watch the Old Quarter, Hoan Kiem Lake, West Lake, etc.
  • Admire ox-eye daisy blooming: In Hanoi, lovely daisies usually bloom in December. You will be treated to adorable daisy vendors, flower shops, and daisy fields.

Conclusion

Hanoi is a safe and sound destination with historical charms, picturesque landscapes, and unique local life. We’re sure that many tourists will love to see this signature city of Vietnam.

Thus, Vietnam Limousine hopes that our blog Things To Do In Hanoi Vietnam – Travel Guide Hanoi works out well for your travel in Vietnam. Thanks for reading.