Hanoi is frantic, chaotic, and endearing in a way that will take your breath away! With its impressive history, beautiful landscapes, delicious food, and vibrant energy, Hanoi will awaken all your senses. There are many spectacular things to do in Hanoi. Some are simply unmissable, others are pure fun. It’s a typical Asian metropolis, with a lot of traffic, chaos, and noise that can sometimes be overwhelming but amazing.
Looking for spectacular activities and beautiful landscapes in Hanoi? Search no more! Here are 66 Best & Unique Things To Do In Hanoi, a perfect balance between secret spots, fabulous culture, and vibrant nightlife.
Visiting Hanoi and all the spectacular surroundings feels like a trip you’ve never taken before. Here you will definitely find an irresistible combination of old-world architecture, delicious street food, and distinctly Vietnamese culture, making this an experience you won’t easily forget.
While you are crossing things off this list when planning out your next holiday, use Expedia’s Price Tracking tool to check the best flight prices for your 2023 trips!
Moreover, I suggest using an Airalo eSim card. This app is incredibly useful for when you are going to travel. They have eSIM cards for seemingly every country on Earth and offer a lot of flexibility, which makes it the perfect way to avoid extra Roaming costs!
Iconic Sights in Hanoi
Hanoi has a tonne of character! Small but mighty, Vietnam’s capital has many unmissable things to do and see especially if this is your first time here.
Dive you're way throught Ha Long Bay
Halong Bay, adorned with nearly 2000 rocky limestone pinnacles and islets, is one of Vietnam’s most popular tourist destinations. This range from towering karsts with deep caves, to tiny formations ringed by white-sand beaches. In 1994, Halong Bay has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Ever since then, it’s been featured near the top of every traveler’s bucket list. The vast majority of its 10 million visitors a year arrive aboard day and overnight cruises.
Ealk around the old quarter
There is no better conventional neighborhood than the Old Quarter, the city’s historic district. It is best seen on foot because of the small, bustling alleyways. A fantastic location for shopping, browsing, or simply immersing yourself in Vietnamese culture. It’s also a great place to find good restaurants and taste Vietnamese cuisine.
Train Street
This is a unique experience and one of the most famous things to do in Hanoi. Small local businesses selling food and drinks are set up on either side of this narrow street making it a great place to taste the local life.
Go Trekking In Sapa
If you’re looking for iconic things to do in Hanoi, make sure to go to Sapa. Sapa is a mountain town near the Chinese border where you can see the extraordinary rice terraces plunging down the cliffs. Truly a trip you will never forget!
Pay tribute at Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum
Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum is one of the city’s most iconic attractions. Surrounded by a large green square park known as Ba Dinh Square, this place is also very popular among locals for exercising, dance classes, and taking the kids to play.
Take in the local scenes at Ly Thai To Park
Ly Thai To Garden is an outdoor urban concrete park popular among families and home to the famous Lý Thái Tổ, a giant 10-meter-tall bronze statue.
Visit Tran Quoc Pagoda
Tran Quoc Pagoda is the oldest pagoda in Hanoi tracing all the way back to the 6th century. The Buddhist shrine is one of the most Instagramable sights in Hanoi because of the lush fauna surrounding the pagoda.
Thien Nga Park
Outside the city, you’ll find Eco Park where you can spend a relaxing afternoon enjoying the local restaurants, and cafes or kayaking on the lake.
Historical Sites in Hanoi
Hanoi has many interesting cultural sights for visitors and residents alike. But one of the city’s main charms are the extensive and multi-faceted temples. In between visiting modern-day shopping malls and eating some of the most delicious Vietnamese dishes, make sure you stop by these impressive relics.
Explore Thang Long Imperial Citadel
The Imperial Citadel of Thang Long is a must-visit attraction not only for Vietnamese but mostly for history lovers. Throughout Vietnam’s history, the Citadel observed a sequence of significant shifts and endured a number of devastating conflicts. The Citadel’s most notable part is the Central Sector, which was designated as a UNESCO Natural World Heritage Site in 2010.
Visit Hao Lo Prison Museum
Not really a great thing to do in Hanoi, but if you want to get a sense of what the prisoner life was, you can book a guided tour. There are also stories depicting the colorful history in maybe a more positive light.
Immerse in the Residential Palace
If there’s someone who will always have a nice house no matter the country, it’s definitely the President. Vietnam is no exception. Discover the Presidential Palace Historic Site and enjoy the tranquil lake vibe. Another nice escape from the busy streets.
Tour Around the Museum of Ethnology
Vietnam is home to dozens of ethnic minority groups and this museum offers visitors a chance to explore the stories behind it. Here you’ll see some reconstructions of traditional homes, a perfect way to learn more about the country and its people.
Visit Trấn Quốc Pagoda
The oldest Buddhist temple in Hanoi it was first built in the 6th century, making it more than 1,400 years old. The building is quite photogenic with its tall pagoda, making it a great place for some beautiful pictures, just remember that is still a religious center.
Look into the past at the Vietnam Military History Museum
You don’t have to be a history buff to appreciate the Vietnam Military History Museum. You’ll understand the feeling of stepping back in time once you enter.
Celebrate the ancient past at the Vietnam National Museum of History
Housing over 40,000 different artifacts, the Vietnam National Museum of History is a great place to discover utensils and tools used by locals in ancient times and explore some of the country’s earliest ceramics and the different traditional designs.
Step back in time at Heritage House
Want to really get a sense of what was like living in Hanoi at the end of the 19th Century? Then visit the Ancient House. Although old and modestly decorated, the antique furniture and ceramics from that time, make this site so unique.
Get lost in a world of art at the Vietnam National Fine Arts Museum
Besides the eye-catching artworks inside, the Vietnam National Fine Arts Museum building is super spectacular and is worth paying a visit to. Art fanatics will find oil paintings and ones done in silk, explore folk paintings, sculptures, and a collection of Vietnamese ceramics from the 11th century until today.
Don’t Miss the Vietnamese Woman’s Museum
This cool modern museum offers a beautiful tribute to Vietnamese women throughout history. The main focus is on their role in society, from obstacles they overcame to marriage, motherhood, fashion, and life-changing rituals.
Traditions and Culture in Hanoi
A trip to Hanoi cannot be complete without understanding its rich heritage. Stroll Hanoi’s old town and dive into the local culture. Include these attractions in your itinerary for Hanoi and have a wonderful vacation.
Ngọc Sơn temple
If you want to change the view from the crowded streets of the nearby Old Quarter, then Ngọc Sơn temple is a veritable peaceful place to visit.
See St. Joseph’s Cathedral
Located in the Old Quarter, St. Joseph’s Cathedral is typically one of the must-see points of interest in Hanoi. It may look familiar because it is based on the Notre Dame de Paris with its neo-gothic style.
Go to the Perfume Pagoda
If you are looking for a Vietnamese experience, go to the Perfume Pagoda, a complex of Buddhist temples built along the Huong Tich mountain chain. Explore the area walking or take the cable car, to get all the way to the top. The views are stunning!
Soak up the serenity in Ba Vi National Park
Ba Vi National Park is in a nice reserve and a fantastic place to go hiking and get a good break from the chaos of the city. On top of the tallest mountain, you’ll find a temple that dates back to the 11th century and breathtaking views.
Visit a local village dedicated to ceramics at Bat Trang Pottery Village
This pottery village isn’t overly large but if you feel inspired this is a great place to put your hand to the potter’s wheel, give ceramic-making a spin, and enjoy a local activity.
Explore the Temple Of Literature
Explore all five separate courtyards, each filled with beautiful architectural structures and mythical statues. Among many things to do in Hanoi, this is definitely a must, and guided tours never skip this cultural attraction.
Take A Stroll Through The French Quarter
The French Quarter is a lovely stroll through early 20th-century architecture, with several points of interest which you should not miss.
Day Trips from Hanoi
Vietnam is an incredible country, with so much to see and do where you could spend weeks exploring. There are plenty of places you can easily reach from Hanoi whether you want to go for a hike, visit a nearby smaller town or appreciate the local way of life and culture.
Visit Ninh Binh
When bustling Hanoi city becomes too much, simply head out of town! Ninh Binh province is a gorgeous destination with tons of natural beauty and is definitely worth visiting while in Vietnam.
Tam Coc
Tam Coc is one of the most beautiful Hanoi day trips possible and home to one of the best limestone mountain scenery. You can explore Tam Coc on bicycles, riding between rice fields, or cruising while taking in the quiet, rural life.
Discover the ancient city, Hoa Lu Hoa Lu
Hoa Lu, now known as the Ancient Capital was once the capital of Vietnam. This is an utterly picturesque destination for a boat trip riding past the emerald lake and the rolling green hillsides surrounding you.
Day trip to Tam Đảo Tam Đảo
Want to discover a cute town filled with quaint coffee shops, trendy accommodations, and all the European-esque feels? Then head straight to Tam Đảo Tam Đảo!
Explore Mai Chau
Home to villages of bamboo houses and endless rice fields, Mai Chau is a perfect destination if you’re planning to explore rural life. Looking for spectacular views? Above the rice fields, you’ll find impressive mountain scenery, best viewed from the Thung Khe Pass.
Shopping in Hanoi
Making use of my motto again: No holiday without shopping, at least a bit! Shopping is one of the primary things to do here if you plan on taking back home a piece of Vietnam. I can say that traveling is incomplete without shopping for some souvenirs, gifts, or handmade crafts. So, are you ready?
Fill Your Shopping Cart at Xuan Market
The largest indoor market in Hanoi is made up of three levels and here you’ll find everything and anything you want. From snacks, and nicknack goods like sunglasses, purses, or toys to fashion designers and dress-makers there are plenty of things to choose from.
Shop til you drop at the Shopping Streets
Beautiful clothes, cheaper souvenirs, or spectacular gifts, in Hanoi, are going to be a fraction of your travel budget. So pack light as you’ll be spoiled for choice with cheap dresses, shirts, scarves, and shoes. The Old Quarter has a street named after every trade, so imagine!
Buy silk for really cheap at Van Phuc Silk Village
Unlike many countries, you can buy silk materials for very cheap prices. Van Phuc Silk Village is the best place to visit and learn about the process of silk manufacturing, turning raw silk into textiles. It’s certainly one of the most popular day trips from Hanoi!
Dress up with ao dai
If you want to really dive into the local vibe while feeling ever so stylish, you must buy an Ao Dai, the Vietnamese traditional dress.
Vietnamese Cuisine
You haven’t visited a city until you taste the local cuisine. Vietnamese cuisine varies by region. Each city, even each village, has its own list of unique local specialties so there is a lot to try.
Drink a Vietnamese coffee
Coffee is a popular drink and many countries are famous for the way of making it, but Vietnam, really I didn’t see this coming. Yet it’s all anyone talks about. There are coffee shops everywhere and you can’t leave the city without trying the true Vietnamese specialty, egg coffee!
Have a Bowl of Phở
Noodles in broth with vegetables or meat, although sounds simple it’s incredibly delicious. You can find phở in most restaurants, so eat as much as you can while in Hanoi.
Drink some Bia Hoi
Taste Bia Hoi, the local beer! It’s produced daily and barely lasts longer for multiple reasons, but a great way to step into Hanoi’s culture.
Get a Cooking Class
If you want to know about everything that you eat then a cooking class in Hanoi is a must! You’ll discover the right ingredients to make the most authentic Vietnamese food.
Follow your taste buds on a food tour
Take a cool street food tour from the very first night you arrived in the city. It’s a great introduction to the city’s best dishes, traditions, and culture.
Take a fun beer-tasting tour around the city
Don’t miss this tour if you like beer! Learn about the brewing processes, and get merry whilst doing so. And also don’t be surprised if your beer order arrives with a cup of ice as during summertime this is a must.
Time for a new Experience so Eat Snake
Just five miles east of the center of the city is the perfect place to sample a local delicacy, snake. All in all, this is more an experience than really a meal.
Water Activities in Hanoi
No trip to Hanoi is complete without exploring the spectacular regions and many of them involve water whether is a delta or limestone mountains stemming from the waters.
Step into Jurassic Park at Trang An
Take a boat ride across the deep green waters of the Red River Delta and experience Jurassic Park scenery when you first glimpse Trang An. Cruise through grottos, and stare in wonder at the historical caves while you breathe in the prehistoric life.
Have fun in the sun at Hồ Tây Water Park
Escape the Hanoi hot weather and spend the day racing down water rides, sliding through dark tunnels, or cruising down the park’s lazy river.
If you’re craving the ocean, head to Cat Ba Island
Enjoy a relaxing day from a different perspective while visiting beaches with soft sands and flat waters. For outdoor enthusiasts, there are plenty of water activities to enjoy from kayaking to snorkeling.
Walk around Hoàn Kiếm
Locally known as Turtle Lake, Hoàn Kiếm is a great place to relax, enjoy one hour or so, and do as the locals do, buy ice cream from one of the many street stands.
Visit West Lake
If you are looking for a popular spot, the largest freshwater lake in the city is the place you want to be. It is a great spot for a walk or a beautiful sunset while boat riding the lake.
People Watch at Hoan Kiem Lake
In ancient times circulated a story that one day when the King was boating on the lake, a turtle suddenly surfaced and demanded that he return the sword that the Sea God lent him. The king returned the sword to the turtle, and the turtle dived under and disappeared. Whether you believe in the legend or not, this is a great place to enjoy a relaxing day at the only lake in Vietnam that is home to an iconic tortoise.
Ban Gioc Waterfall
The majestic Ban Gioc waterfall is the country’s centerpiece! Located on the border with China, the 4 largest cross-border waterfalls in the world it is still a hidden natural gem of Vietnam. You’d think that because the cascade is so popular on Instagram, this location would be teeming with people, but that’s not the case. Take advantage of this chance to see one of the most stunning waterfalls in Vietnam and Southeast Asia before it becomes overcrowded.
Top Fun Activities in Hanoi
Fun activities may not be one of your major reason to visit Hanoi, however, there are plenty of things to do to have a lot of fun.
Water Puppet Show
Water puppet theater is a traditional Vietnamese show that tells stories using of course puppets and water. You’ll love the show, as the puppeteers do a really great job. But don’t believe me, just go and see!
Cross Long Bien Bridge
There are many places with beautiful views in Hanoi but Long Bien Bridge, a famous French-built bridge over the Red River, offers a different perspective. So rent yourself a motorbike and enjoy your ride.
65th floor of Lotte Tower
And if is still about the best views in Hanoi, you definitely don’t want to miss Observation Deck. Head up to the 65th floor of the Lotte Centre and take in the incredible city view of the colorful houses and buildings.
Visit the famous Mua Cave
When arriving at Mua Cave, if the scenery looks familiar it’s because this site regularly makes Instagram appearances. Climbing up 500 mountain steps is part of this beautiful experience and once you reach the top of the mountain peak, the views of Vietnam country are breathtaking over anything else.
Meander through Hanoi’s biggest flower market
You’re a flower lover? Then head straight to Quang Ba Flower Market, not just a flower market but you also get to witness the whole setup process. Watch as locals drive by carrying the biggest bunches of flowers while you are serving Pho and Banh Mi’s till the early hours of the morning, and breathe in the smell of a million flowers in the air.
Take in the Hanoi scenes via bicycle tours
Bicycles are a super popular mode of transport in Vietnam and everyone from young to old is seen riding bikes in the streets. Experience the local way of life and navigate the ins and outs of Hanoi by bicycle tour.
Take a Hop on Hop off bus tour around Hanoi
Out of many fun things to do in Hanoi, the hop-on hop-off bus tour is easily one of the best ways to tick all of the most famous city attractions whilst learning facts about each from a local guide along the way.
Go on a Walking Tour of the City
To get acquainted with any city in the world and dive into the back streets and explore some less famous spots you must go on a walking tour. And in Hanoi, this is definitely one of the best things to do.
Walk among the terraced rice fields at Mù Cang Chải
Still on the walking topic but with a different view. Mù Cang Chải is renowned for its gorgeous terraced rice fields, and it’s the image you always see on travel brochures. The pictures you’ll snap offer priceless views.
Check Out the Mosaic Wall
The theme is ‘History through pictures’. With such a rich history and folk art that can be traced back to the Stone Age, the theme makes total sense. The decorative patterns represent a visual story of the country throughout different eras.
Don’t miss Đầm sen Hồ Tây
Tay Ho district is home to ponds of blooming Lotus, the country’s national flower, and a giant Ferris wheel in the background. It’s definitely amazing to catch the flowers in bloom during Lotus season, so make sure to book your trip anytime between May to June.
Night Things to Do in Hanoi
Hanoi is not just a buzzin’ city during the day, you’ll also find thriving life at night! This is definitely a good moment to enjoy cheap beer, fun activities, and a vibrant atmosphere.
Shop the night market
Every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday is a great time to explore the hundreds of night shops set up through the Old Quarter. Here you can find just about anything from different local dishes and clothes to souvenirs and gifts.
Enjoy a show at the Hanoi Opera House
If you want to change your view, consider attending a show, so book a ticket to one of many Vietnamese opera performances, concerts, and even ballet.
Relax and unwind at the spas
After all the city exploring and walking, treat yourself at a wellness spa with a well-deserved massage. Choose between different treatments, like a traditional Vietnamese massage, enjoy a facial and get your nails done. Soak in a traditional wooden bath followed by herbal steam and a Bamboo stick massage.
Dine at Hanoi’s best restaurants
Apart from Hanoi’s incredible street food, there are some amazing world-class restaurants serving both local and international cuisines. Foodies must take advantage of the affordable fine-dining options in Hanoi.
Hang out for the evening on the side of Nhật Tân Bridge
Known as the “friendship bridge”, the Nhật Tân Bridge is the perfect place for young couples and friends to enjoy the night out.
Have a cocktail at a Rooftop Bar
If you’ve ever experienced Hanoi’s heat, a rooftop pool is all you need in the peak of summer. With no ocean around, there are only pools to cool off in, and what better way to do so than a pool/cafe vibey place?
Dance the night away
Ready to enjoy the nightlife in Hanoi? Discover some of the most amazing nightlife locations right in the capital city from pubs to bia-hois, bars, and nightclubs, there’s something to tickle everyone’s fancy if you’re in the festive or social mood. Around the Old Quarter, there are tons of bars and clubs!
Overall
Whether this is your first time in Hanoi or maybe the third time, on a solo trip, or traveling with all your family and kids, you’ll be sure to find something unmissable to do in this list!
