Hanoi Travel Guide: What to See and Do in Vietnam’s Historic Capital

Hanoi, the heart of Vietnam, is a city that captivates visitors with its rich history, vibrant street life, and irresistible culinary delights. As the cultural and political center of the country, Hanoi seamlessly blends ancient traditions with modern developments, making it an unmissable destination for travelers. Whether you’re wandering through the bustling Old Quarter, savoring a bowl of steaming pho, or soaking in the tranquil beauty of Hoan Kiem Lake, Hanoi promises an experience like no other.

1, Weather & best time to visit Hanoi

Hanoi experiences four distinct seasons: Spring (March to April), Summer (May to August), Autumn (September to November), and Winter (December to February). The best time to visit is in Autumn, when the weather is cool, dry, and comfortable, with clear skies and pleasant temperatures ranging between 18°C to 25°C.

2, Must-visit places in Hanoi

Hoan Kiem Lake & Ngoc Son Temple
Located in the heart of Hanoi, Hoan Kiem Lake is a tranquil escape from the bustling city. Visit the Ngoc Son Temple located on an island in the lake, and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and scenic views.

Old Quarter
Explore the 36 streets of Hanoi's Old Quarter, where you can find ancient colonial architecture, street food, and local shops selling everything from textiles to traditional crafts.

Temple of Literature
A symbol of Hanoi’s historical and cultural heritage, the Temple of Literature is Vietnam’s first university, dating back to the 11th century. It’s an ideal spot to learn about Vietnamese history and Confucianism.

Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum
A visit to the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum is a must for history buffs. Here, you can pay respects to Vietnam’s beloved leader, Ho Chi Minh, and explore the adjacent Presidential Palace and his former residence.

Hanoi Opera House
This French colonial building is a masterpiece of architecture and a great place to experience Hanoi’s cultural scene. It hosts performances from classical music to traditional Vietnamese theater.

Vietnam Museum of Ethnology
This museum showcases Vietnam's rich ethnic diversity, with exhibits on the country's 54 ethnic groups. It’s a fascinating place to understand the cultural heritage of different regions in Vietnam.

West Lake (Ho Tay)
A peaceful retreat in the city, West Lake offers walking paths, beautiful views, and several pagodas, including the famous Tran Quoc Pagoda. It’s perfect for a leisurely stroll or boat ride.

Long Bien Bridge
An iconic landmark, this historic bridge offers a glimpse of Hanoi’s past. Built by the French in the early 20th century, it spans the Red River and offers stunning views, especially at sunset.

Water Puppet Show
A traditional Vietnamese art form, the Water Puppet Show at Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre is an enchanting performance depicting rural life, folklore, and legends.

3, Getting around

• Taxi/Grab: Widely available in Hanoi, taxis are convenient, and Grab (the Southeast Asian equivalent of Uber) is a great option for short trips.
• Cyclo: For a more traditional experience, hop on a cyclo (rickshaw) to explore the Old Quarter.
• Walking: Many of Hanoi’s top attractions are within walking distance of each other, especially in the Old Quarter. Walking is a great way to immerse yourself in the city’s vibrant streets.
• Public Transportation: Hanoi has buses that are easy to use and inexpensive, but not as convenient for tourists. The metro system is expanding and might be an option in the future.

4, Where to stay in Hanoi?

• Hanoi Old Quarter: For first-time visitors, staying in the Old Quarter is a great choice, as it's close to popular attractions, shopping, and dining. Hotels like Hanoi La Siesta Hotel and O'Gallery Premier Hotel & Spa offer a cozy atmosphere and great service.
• West Lake: For a more peaceful stay, consider accommodations near West Lake, such as InterContinental Hanoi Westlake or Sheraton Hanoi.

5, What to eat in hanoi?

• Pho: The quintessential Vietnamese dish, Pho is a flavorful noodle soup. Don’t miss Pho Bat Dan or Pho Gia Truyen for a local experience.
• Banh Mi: A Vietnamese sandwich made with a crispy baguette, filled with meats, vegetables, and herbs. Try Banh Mi 25 or Banh Mi Phuong for the best versions.
• Egg Coffee (Cà Phê Trứng): A creamy, rich coffee topped with whipped egg yolk and sweetened condensed milk, served in many cafes around the Old Quarter.
• Cha Ca: A Hanoi specialty, Cha Ca is fried fish served with noodles and fresh herbs. Visit Cha Ca La Vong, a famous restaurant specializing in this dish.
• Bun Thang: A delicious noodle dish with chicken, pork, and egg, often eaten as breakfast. Try it at Bun Thang Ba Duc for an authentic taste.

6, Things to do in Hanoi

• Explore the Street Food Scene: Hanoi is a paradise for food lovers. Take a food tour through the Old Quarter and try local favorites like nem cuon (spring rolls), bun cha, and banh xeo (Vietnamese pancakes).
• Shopping: Visit the night market in the Old Quarter for souvenirs like silk scarves, handmade jewelry, and traditional handicrafts.
• Attend a Cultural Performance: Aside from the Water Puppet Show, Hanoi offers a variety of performances including traditional music, theater, and dance.
• Cycling Tours: Rent a bike and take a guided tour of the city, visiting parks, lakes, and hidden gems that most tourists miss.

7, Other tips

• Crossing the Street: Traffic in Hanoi can be overwhelming. The key to crossing the street safely is to walk steadily and let the vehicles navigate around you.
• Currency: The local currency is the Vietnamese Dong (VND). Credit cards are widely accepted, but it’s a good idea to carry some cash, especially for small purchases.
• Language: While Vietnamese is the official language, many people in the tourist industry speak English, especially in hotels, restaurants, and shops in the Old Quarter.
• Safety: Hanoi is a safe city, but like any major tourist destination, be aware of your belongings, especially in crowded areas like markets and public transport.

Whether you're exploring the ancient temples, savoring delicious street food, or experiencing the lively culture of Hanoi, this charming city offers something for every traveler. With so much to see, do, and taste, you’re sure to have an unforgettable experience in Vietnam’s captivating capital.