Hanoi
Things to see and do
In Hanoi, Vietnam, there's an abundance of attractions and activities to suit every traveler's interests. Here are some must-see sights and things to do in this vibrant city:
Explore the Old Quarter: Wander through the historic Old Quarter, a maze of narrow streets and alleyways lined with colonial buildings, ancient temples, and bustling markets. Get lost in the chaotic charm of this atmospheric neighborhood, where you can shop for souvenirs, sample street food, and soak up the local culture.
Visit Hoan Kiem Lake: Take a leisurely stroll around Hoan Kiem Lake, a picturesque oasis in the heart of Hanoi. Admire the scenic beauty of the lake, with its iconic Turtle Tower and Ngoc Son Temple, and watch locals practicing tai chi or enjoying a leisurely boat ride on the water.
Explore Temples and Pagodas: Discover Hanoi's rich religious heritage by visiting its many temples and pagodas. Don't miss the One Pillar Pagoda, a historic Buddhist temple built on a single pillar, and the Temple of Literature, Vietnam's first national university and a symbol of Confucian learning.
Ho Chi Minh Complex: Pay homage to Vietnam's revered leader at the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, where visitors can view the embalmed body of Ho Chi Minh. Explore the nearby Presidential Palace, One Pillar Pagoda, and Ho Chi Minh's stilt house to learn more about his life and legacy.
Vietnamese Street Food Tour: Embark on a culinary adventure through Hanoi's vibrant street food scene. Join a guided food tour to sample local delicacies such as pho (Vietnamese noodle soup), banh mi (Vietnamese sandwich), bun cha (grilled pork with noodles), and fresh spring rolls, all served from street stalls and hole-in-the-wall eateries.
Water Puppet Show: Experience the unique art form of Vietnamese water puppetry at a traditional water puppet theater in Hanoi. Watch as intricately carved puppets dance across a water stage accompanied by live music, telling stories from Vietnamese folklore and culture.
Museum Exploration: Learn about Vietnam's history and culture by visiting Hanoi's museums. Explore the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology to discover the country's diverse ethnic groups, or delve into the country's wartime history at the Vietnam Military History Museum and Hoa Lo Prison (Hanoi Hilton).
Cyclo Tour: Take a leisurely cyclo (bicycle rickshaw) ride through the streets of Hanoi to explore its sights and sounds from a unique perspective. Sit back and relax as your driver navigates through the bustling streets, providing commentary on the city's landmarks along the way.
Shopping: Shop for souvenirs, handicrafts, and traditional Vietnamese goods at Hanoi's markets and shops. Visit Dong Xuan Market for a bustling shopping experience, or explore the boutiques and galleries in the Old Quarter for unique finds and local treasures.
Bia Hoi Experience: Join locals for a refreshing glass of bia hoi, freshly brewed draft beer, at one of Hanoi's bia hoi joints. Sit at a sidewalk table, soak up the lively atmosphere, and enjoy a cold beer while watching the world go by.
From cultural landmarks and historic sites to culinary delights and unique experiences, Hanoi offers a wealth of attractions and activities for travelers to explore. Whether you're immersing yourself in the city's rich history, savoring its flavorsome cuisine, or simply soaking up its vibrant street life, Hanoi promises an unforgettable journey through the heart of Vietnam.
Good to Know
When to visit?
The best time to visit Hanoi, Vietnam, is during the spring (March to April) and autumn (September to November) months when the weather is mild and pleasant. During these seasons, Hanoi experiences comfortable temperatures, lower humidity levels, and minimal rainfall, making it ideal for outdoor exploration and sightseeing.
Spring in Hanoi brings blooming flowers, particularly during the Tet (Lunar New Year) festival, when the city is adorned with colorful decorations and festive celebrations. Autumn is characterized by clear skies, cooler temperatures, and the vibrant foliage of Hanoi's parks and green spaces.
Similarly, the winter months (December to February) in Hanoi can be chilly and damp, with temperatures dropping and occasional foggy conditions. While winter weather is generally mild compared to northern climates, visitors should be prepared for cooler temperatures and occasional drizzle.
Ultimately, the best time to visit Hanoi depends on your preferences and interests. If you enjoy festivals and cultural events, consider visiting during the spring or autumn months. For outdoor activities and sightseeing, aim for the milder weather of spring or autumn to make the most of your visit to Vietnam's vibrant capital city.
Access
Where to eat and taste
In Hanoi, Vietnam, you'll find an abundance of dining options that cater to every taste and budget, from street food stalls to upscale restaurants. Here are some places where you can eat and taste the delicious flavors of Vietnamese cuisine:
Street Food in the Old Quarter: Explore the narrow streets and alleys of Hanoi's historic Old Quarter, where you'll find an array of street food stalls serving up local delicacies. Sample favorites like pho (Vietnamese noodle soup), banh mi (Vietnamese sandwich), bun cha (grilled pork with noodles), and fresh spring rolls, all prepared with fresh ingredients and bursting with flavor.
Bun Cha Huong Lien: Visit this famous eatery, also known as "Bun Cha Obama," where former U.S. President Barack Obama famously dined during his visit to Vietnam. Try the restaurant's specialty dish, bun cha, a flavorful combination of grilled pork, noodles, herbs, and dipping sauce.
Cha Ca La Vong: Indulge in the iconic Vietnamese dish, cha ca (grilled fish with turmeric and dill), at Cha Ca La Vong, one of Hanoi's oldest and most renowned restaurants. Watch as your meal is cooked tableside and enjoy the unique flavors of this Hanoi specialty.
Quan An Ngon: Experience the diversity of Vietnamese cuisine at Quan An Ngon, a popular restaurant that brings together a variety of regional dishes under one roof. Choose from an extensive menu featuring favorites from across Vietnam, served in a charming courtyard setting.
Pho Thin: Savor a bowl of Hanoi's famous pho at Pho Thin, a beloved local institution known for its flavorful beef noodle soup. Watch as the skilled chefs prepare your pho using high-quality ingredients and traditional cooking techniques.
Bun Bo Nam Bo: Enjoy a taste of Southern Vietnamese cuisine at Bun Bo Nam Bo, a cozy restaurant specializing in bun bo nam bo, a delicious noodle dish with beef, herbs, peanuts, and a tangy sauce. The dish is bursting with flavors and textures, making it a must-try in Hanoi.
Fruit Stalls and Juice Bars: Stay refreshed with a visit to one of Hanoi's fruit stalls or juice bars, where you can sample a variety of tropical fruits and freshly squeezed juices. Try exotic fruits like dragon fruit, rambutan, and pomelo, or enjoy a refreshing fruit smoothie.
Egg Coffee at Giang Café: Treat yourself to a unique Vietnamese delicacy at Giang Café, where you can savor egg coffee, a rich and creamy beverage made with egg yolks, sugar, condensed milk, and robust Vietnamese coffee. This Hanoi specialty is a must-try for coffee lovers.
High-end Dining: For a more upscale dining experience, explore Hanoi's burgeoning culinary scene at one of its many high-end restaurants. From fine dining establishments serving Vietnamese fusion cuisine to international restaurants offering gourmet dishes, Hanoi has something to satisfy every palate.
Cooking Classes: Immerse yourself in Vietnamese culture and cuisine by taking a cooking class in Hanoi. Learn to prepare traditional dishes under the guidance of expert chefs, visit local markets to select fresh ingredients, and discover the secrets of Vietnamese cooking in a hands-on culinary experience.
From street food stalls to upscale restaurants, Hanoi offers a tantalizing array of dining options that showcase the flavors and diversity of Vietnamese cuisine. Whether you're sampling street food favorites in the Old Quarter, indulging in Hanoi specialties at renowned eateries, or exploring the city's vibrant culinary scene, you're sure to delight your taste buds in Vietnam's bustling capital city.
