Hanoi is a sensory explosion of ancient history, French colonial architecture, and chaotic street life centered around the serene Hoan Kiem Lake. It is best visited between October and April when the weather is cool and dry, allowing for comfortable exploration of its labyrinthine Old Quarter streets.
Top Things to Do in Hanoi
Tap an attraction to look it up on TripAdvisor.
Getting Around Hanoi
From the Airport
Rideshare. The Grab app is the most reliable and transparent way to get from Noi Bai International Airport to the city center, typically costing around 300,000-400,000 VND. Bus. Public bus number 86 is an express service that connects the airport to the Hanoi Railway Station and various stops in the Old Quarter for a very low cost.
Once You're There
Rideshare. Grab is the dominant rideshare app in Hanoi and is highly recommended for its fixed-price model and ease of use for tourists. Walking. The Old Quarter and the area around Hoan Kiem Lake are very walkable, though you should be prepared to navigate busy sidewalks and constant motorbike traffic.
Where to Stay in Hanoi
Hotel picks for Hanoi are coming soon. In the meantime, search directly:
Where to Eat in Hanoi
Pizza 4P's★ 4.9 (3,127)L1-C12B, 175 P. Nguyễn Thái Học, Ô Chợ Dừa, Hà Nội 100000, VietnamA surprising local favorite, this Japanese-run pizzeria serves artisanal pies with house-made cheese that consistently ranks among the city's best dining.
Cha Ca Thang Long★ 4.7 (580)17A P. Chả Cá, Phố cổ Hà Nội, Hoàn Kiếm, Hà Nội 100000, VietnamThis restaurant specializes in a single, legendary dish of turmeric-marinated fish fried with dill and spring onions.
Banh Mi 25★ 4.5 (17,417)25 P. Hàng Cá, Phố cổ Hà Nội, Hoàn Kiếm, Hà Nội 100000, VietnamWidely considered the best banh mi spot in Hanoi, it is known for its crispy baguettes and fresh, high-quality fillings.
Bun Bo Nam Bo Bach Phuong★ 4.5 (7,852)73-75 Hàng Điếu, Phố cổ Hà Nội, Hoàn Kiếm, Hà Nội, VietnamThis bustling shop is dedicated to its namesake dish, a refreshing bowl of southern-style beef noodles topped with peanuts and fried shallots.
Cafe Giang★ 4.4 (16,987)39 P. Nguyễn Hữu Huân, Phố cổ Hà Nội, Hoàn Kiếm, Hà Nội, VietnamThis historic cafe is the birthplace of egg coffee, a rich and velvety concoction that is a must-try Hanoi experience.
Quan An Ngon★ 4.4 (6,004)18 P. Phan Bội Châu, Cửa Nam, Hà Nội 111103, VietnamSet in a beautiful colonial villa, this restaurant offers a massive menu of regional Vietnamese street food classics in a clean, upscale setting.
Pho Gia Truyen Bat Dan★ 4.3 (5,641)49 P. Bát Đàn, Phố cổ Hà Nội, Hoàn Kiếm, Hà Nội, VietnamExpect a queue at this no-frills institution that serves one of the most authentic and flavorful bowls of beef pho in the city.
Madame Hien★ 4.3 (1,792)48 P. Hàng Bè, Phố cổ Hà Nội, Hoàn Kiếm, Hà Nội 10000, VietnamLocated in a stunning renovated villa, this restaurant celebrates traditional northern Vietnamese family recipes with an elegant twist.
Bun Cha Huong Lien★ 4.1 (12,383)24 P. Lê Văn Hưu, Cửa Nam, Hà Nội, VietnamFamous for hosting Anthony Bourdain and Barack Obama, this spot serves the definitive grilled pork and noodle dish.
Xoi Yen★ 4.0 (4,570)35b P. Nguyễn Hữu Huân, Phố cổ Hà Nội, Hoàn Kiếm, Hà Nội 100000, VietnamA local favorite for late-night or quick meals, this shop serves sticky rice topped with various savory meats and fried shallots.
Tours & Activities
Bookable through Viator.
3 Days in Hanoi
Old Quarter Charm & Colonial History
Morning. Start your Hanoi adventure by walking the perimeter of Hoan Kiem Lake, the spiritual heart of the city, where you can watch locals practice Tai Chi at dawn. Cross the iconic red Huc Bridge to visit Ngoc Son Temple, which sits peacefully on a small island in the lake. Afterwards, dive headfirst into the bustling maze of the Old Quarter, specifically wandering down Hang Gai and Hang Bac streets to see traditional craft shops. It is best to arrive early in the morning to beat the intense midday heat and the heavy scooter traffic. Finally, stop by St. Joseph's Cathedral to admire its neo-Gothic architecture before grabbing a quick coffee nearby.
Afternoon. Head south to visit the Hoa Lo Prison Relic, a sobering site that offers deep insight into the Vietnam War and the colonial era. After processing the history, walk toward the Hanoi Opera House, a stunning example of French colonial architecture that serves as a beautiful backdrop for photos. Spend your late afternoon browsing the high-end boutiques and galleries surrounding Trang Tien Plaza. The area is highly walkable and provides a nice contrast to the frantic energy of the northern districts. Be sure to carry a bottle of water as the humidity can climb quickly in the afternoon.
Evening. Wind down your day by visiting the famous Train Street, where you can watch the locomotive pass mere inches from the cafes lining the tracks. Grab a drink at one of the small shops while you wait for the scheduled crossing, but be sure to follow the shop owners' instructions for safety. Afterward, head to the vibrant Night Market area for a walk-through of local stalls selling everything from handicrafts to souvenirs. Conclude your evening at the nearby Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre to experience this unique, traditional Vietnamese art form that dates back to the 11th century.
Political Heart & Imperial Legacy
Morning. Begin your day at the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, the final resting place of Vietnam's most iconic leader, to witness the solemn changing of the guard ceremony. Dress modestly as this is a highly respectful site, and aim to arrive before 8:00 AM to avoid the longest queues. Once you have paid your respects, walk through the lush gardens to see the Presidential Palace and the humble Stilt House where Ho Chi Minh once lived. Next, visit the nearby One Pillar Pagoda, a small but architecturally significant wooden temple rising from a lotus pond. It is a peaceful spot that feels worlds away from the busy city streets.
Afternoon. Make your way to the Temple of Literature, Hanoi's first university, which is dedicated to Confucius and features beautiful courtyards and traditional architecture. Spend at least an hour wandering through the five courtyards, noting the stone turtles that carry the names of past scholars. From there, take a short taxi ride to the Thang Long Imperial Citadel, a UNESCO World Heritage site that served as the center of regional political power for thirteen centuries. Explore the underground bunkers and the ancient gates that remain standing today. It is a massive complex, so wear comfortable walking shoes and bring a hat for sun protection.
Evening. For your final evening in the central area, head toward the West Lake district to enjoy a more relaxed atmosphere away from the Old Quarter. Take a stroll along the shoreline of West Lake, the largest lake in the city, which offers beautiful sunset views over the water. Visit the Tran Quoc Pagoda, the oldest Buddhist temple in Hanoi, which looks particularly magical when illuminated at night. End your night with a sophisticated dinner in the Tay Ho neighborhood, which is known for its upscale dining scene and international flair. It is the perfect way to cap off a day of deep historical immersion.
Culture, Art & Local Life
Morning. Dedicate your morning to the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology, located a bit further out from the city center but well worth the trip. This museum provides an incredible overview of the 54 different ethnic groups in Vietnam through indoor exhibits and outdoor recreations of traditional village houses. Spend at least three hours here to fully appreciate the depth of the cultural displays and the craftsmanship of the traditional structures. It is best to take a Grab taxi here to ensure a direct and comfortable journey. The museum is spacious and provides a much-needed break from the noise of the central city.
Afternoon. Return to the city center and spend your afternoon at the Vietnam Fine Arts Museum, which houses an impressive collection of everything from prehistoric art to modern contemporary pieces. The building itself is a beautiful blend of French colonial and traditional Vietnamese architectural styles. After soaking in the art, walk over to the nearby Temple of the Jade Mountain for a final look at the city's religious heritage. If you have time, browse the nearby local markets for high-quality silk or lacquerware to take home as a souvenir. The area around the museum is filled with charming cafes where you can rest your feet.
Evening. Spend your final evening in Hanoi by exploring the hidden alleyway cafes of the Old Quarter, which offer a cozy and intimate look at city life. Seek out a 'hidden' cafe like Cafe Dinh, which is tucked away up a narrow staircase and offers a great view of the lake below. Enjoy a final bowl of authentic bun cha or pho at a street-side stall that you haven't tried yet to truly embrace the local culinary culture. As the night wraps up, take one last walk around the lake to see the city lights reflecting on the water. It is a nostalgic way to end your first trip to this vibrant capital.