So what are the must-visit places in Hanoi? Read on as we explore how Hanoi is a beautiful integration of modern architecture and ancient pagodas, the streets of Vietnam’s capital serve as a center of attraction for all types of travelers. From its interesting history and cultural traditions to its lively city vibe, Hanoi has a lot to offer.
Once you step into the world of Hanoi, it will make you fall in love with its infrastructure, ancient temples, skyscrapers, and natural scenic beauty. This historical city in North Vietnam will give you all the reasons to remember it and cherish your fun days.
So let’s check out the must-visit places in Hanoi and the activities you can do.
If you’re in a hurry, feel free to skip to the desired section below:
What are the must-visit places in Hanoi, Vietnam?
Hanoi keeps impressing and surprising everyone with its fantastic spots. If you are wondering what places you need to explore, let’s have a look at these top 5 must-visit places in Hanoi.
1. Hoan Kiem Lake
Hoan Kiem Lake opens from the east of the Old Quarter and serves as a central tourist spot in Hanoi. The lake’s scenic beauty, coupled with the Ngoc Son Temple linked by a red-colored bridge, brings the view to life. It’s really a great spot if you want to relax and escape the bustle of city life for a while. Visit early in the morning to observe the locals practicing yoga and Tai Chi. It is really a peaceful view.
2. Hanoi Opera House
Hanoi Opera House is the hub of performing arts and is currently the largest theater in Vietnam. It was built in the early years of the 20th century by French colonists. The theater is mainly known for its concerts, dance performances, and Vietnamese opera. So, when you visit the Hoan Kiem district, you must stop by the Hanoi Opera House for some cheeky entertainment.
3. Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum
Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum is a significant part of Vietnam’s history. It’s where the preserved body of their political leader, Ho Chi Minh, resides. It’s a perfect place to visit early in the morning if you really want to learn about the history of Vietnam and pay tribute to the grave.
4. Old Quarter
Hanoi’s Old Quarter is a perfect example of colonial architecture and has a lively atmosphere you get to observe. The Old Quarter has a total of 36 streets named after the goods that the craftsmen and artisans used to trade in that region. Today, it is one of the most joyful places to visit and have a taste of the delicious Vietnamese street food at every corner.
Take a walk through the iconic train street in Hanoi and enjoy a coffee while sitting on the train tracks. If you time it well, you may even be able to see the train swing past as you enjoy your drink.
5. Water Puppet Theater
Originating in the 11th century, the water puppet show is a unique local art form in Hanoi. It uses wooden puppets lacquered in a waist-deep pool. The puppeteers hide behind the screen and control the puppets to perform. Thang Long Water Puppet Theater is one of the most famous ones. When in Hanoi, book your tickets in advance so you don’t miss out on it.
Short on time? Then you might want to consider booking a full day Hanoi Tour to cover all your bases in this ‘must-visit places in Hanoi’ guide. We recommend doing a city tour during your first two days of your trip to really grasp the culture and surroundings.
Checking off Hanoi’s to-do List
Hanoi’s to-do list is truly endless. There are lots of things to do in Hanoi, so you won’t get bored of it.
Here are a few extra things to check off your list:
- Go to the 65th floor of Lotte’s Observation Deck to feel high. There are props like angel wings and a huge heart set up for taking pictures.
- Go for a food tour. Vietnam offers so many different tasty cuisines. From eating a traditional bowl of Pho, to eating Bun Cha or trying the Vietnamese crepe known as Banh Xeo. There’s so many unique food dishes here to try that you might have to consider booking a food tour in and around the city. You don’t want to miss a dish!
- Walk past Hanoi’s ceramic mosaic mural. It’s a 4-kilometer-long mosaic art piece running on a streetside wall, telling its own story.
- Go for a motorbike tour. Motorbikes are the biggest mode of transportation in the city. If you are interested in a proper motorcycle tour, you should also try the 3-day Ha Giang loop from Hanoi.
Things to do in Hanoi Old Quarter
Hanoi Old Quarter is a go-to place for exploring the history and culture of the city. You might want to join a walking tour and visit these places along the way:
- Dong Xuan Market
- 87 Ma May Ancient House
- Night Market
- Long Bien Bridge
- Beer Street
- Cafe Giang
Beer Street Hanoi: As you stroll along Old Quarter, you are bound to step through the lively Beer Street. With plenty of loud party music, this neon-lit lane is full of action, offering authentic Vietnamese beer drinks and tasty street food. Beer Street is a must see stop for those wanting to experience the social atmosphere of Hanoi.
Apart from that, there is a secret coffee spot in Hanoi Old Quarter, Cafe Giang that you just can’t miss out on.
Cafe Giang is situated on Nguyen Huu Huan Street, which is a little difficult for first-time visitors to find. However, it’s quite popular among local coffee addicts because of its famous egg coffee.
The cafe was founded in 1946, and since then, its egg coffee has been in huge demand. They use a secret recipe that includes egg yolk, coffee powder, condensed milk, cheese, and butter, which tastes unforgettable. Hanoi street food is incomplete without Cafe Giang’s egg coffee, and now we understand why.
Read more: Who offers the best coffee in Asia?
Guide to basic Vietnamese
| English | Vietnamese | How to pronounce |
|---|---|---|
| Hello | Xin cháo | Zin chow |
| Thank you | Cảm ơn | Kahm uhn |
| How much? | Bao nhiều | Baow nyew |
| Too expensive | Mác Quá | Mac wa |
| Excuse me | Xin lỗi | Zin loy |
| Goodbye | Tạm biêt | Tarm Byiet |
Plan your Hanoi adventure with confidence! Read our 10 essential travel tips for exploring Southeast Asia to travel smart and get the most out of your journey.
Bottom Line
Hanoi is a great place for vacations if you like to visit historical spots and explore ancient cultures. Beyond its must-visit places and activities, you can enjoy Vietnamese traditional food and connect with different people as well. You’ll always find something very distinct.
We hope this must-see guide to Hanoi has helped you jumpstart your trip. So go on ahead, plan, and experience the joy of everything that Hanoi has to offer.
Continue your trip from Hanoi to Sapa: Book your transfer here
Craving more adventure? Dive into the Banana Pancake trail and learn everything you need to know for an unreal backpacking adventure around Southeast Asia.
