Top Things to Do in Hanoi

About the City

Hanoi: A Vibrant Blend of Chaos and Charm Hanoi, the bustling capital of Vietnam, is a thrilling concoction of the old and the new. The city vibes with incessant energy - motorbikes zip through narrow streets, street vendors shout out the day's specials and ancient temples stand stoically amid modern developments. The good? Its rich history is palpable in the Old Quarter, where each street is dedicated to a traditional craft. Meanwhile, foodies rejoice in the culinary adventure that is Vietnamese street food, with Hanoi's special Pho slurped happily by locals and tourists alike. Hoan Kiem Lake offers a serene escape from urban frenzy, and the city's cultural heart beats strong with museums, puppetry, and music. On the flip side, Hanoi's rapid growth has spawned traffic that can test the patience of a saint and noise pollution that assaults the senses. The weather swings from a sweltering heat in summer to a bone-chilling dampness in winter, challenging even the hardiest of travelers. Through it all, Hanoi's spirit endures, a testament to its resilience and vibrant culture. Whether sipping egg coffee or navigating the scooter swarms, in Hanoi, every moment is an adventure that writes itself into the poetry of daily life.

Things to Do in Hanoi

Cha Ca Thrills

Food & Drink

Dive into Cha Ca, a sizzling skillet of turmeric-marinated fish that'll tease your palate, served with dill and peanuts. Fish-tastic!

Trek the Trails of Ba Vi

Outdoors

Lace up your hiking boots and embark on an adventure through Ba Vi National Park. Waterfalls, jungle vibes, and panoramic views? Yes, please!

Culinary Quest for the Adventurous

The Unexpected

Tantalize your taste buds and dare yourself to try snails and other unique Vietnamese street foods. Be a culinary daredevil!

Vintage Shopping Spree

The Unexpected

Load up on some nostalgia with a vintage shopping spree. Snag unique pre-loved items and chat up with stylish locals!

Cyclo Photo Hunt

The Unexpected

Who needs a tour bus when you can hop into a cyclo and snap quirky photos of Hanoi? Pretend you're a paparazzi for the old-school charm of the city streets!

Lakeside Tai Chi Enlightenment

The Unexpected

Get up with the sun and join in on a peaceful Tai Chi session by the lake. Experience the Zen with local practitioners and start your day balanced on the right foot!

Row, Row, Row Your Boat

Outdoors

Get your oars ready for a tranquil paddle across the serene West Lake. Watch the sunset and say 'hello' to the lotus flowers!

Pedal Through the Past

Outdoors

Hop on a bike and pedal your way through the charming Old Quarter. Feel the breeze, dodge the scooters, and wave to the local vendors!

Fly a Kite at the Imperial Citadel

Outdoors

Let's add a little color to the sky over the Imperial Citadel of Thang Long. Grab a kite and let it dance with the dragons!

Outdoor Cooking Class in Hanoi

Outdoors

Ready to become a pho-nomenal chef? Join an outdoor cooking class and whip up some Vietnamese culinary magic under the open sky!

Egg Coffee: Get Whisked Away!

Food & Drink

Sip on Egg Coffee, a quirky concoction of coffee and egg that'll whip your taste buds into a frenzy and leave you egg-static!

Explore the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum

Sights

March your way to this grand monument, the final resting place of Uncle Ho. Dress smart, no hands in pockets, and experience a moment of respect and reflection.

Take in the Charm at the Temple of Literature

Sights

Ready for a history hit? The Temple of Literature is over 1000 years old and is the place to embrace the calm amidst the city's hustle. Confucius would be proud!

Reflections at the Hoan Kiem Lake

Sights

Take a leisurely stroll around the serene Hoan Kiem Lake, snap a selfie with the Turtle Tower, and watch the world go by. It's all about chill vibes here!

Wander around the Old Quarter

Sights

Get ready to zigzag through the maze of streets in the Old Quarter, where the buzz never fades. It's an electrifying mix of motorbikes, street food, and history!

Catch a show at Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre

Sights

Splash into the world of Vietnamese folklore with this unique water puppet show. It'll leave you spellbound and maybe a little soggy, but it's a must-see!

Bun Cha Bonanza

Food & Drink

Munch on Bun Cha, where you'll dunk tender grilled pork into a divine dip, pairing it with a mound of rice noodles and herbs. Thanks, Obama!

Pho-Paradise

Food & Drink

Slurp down the most iconic Vietnamese noodle soup, Pho, a steamy bowl of goodness with tender beef slices that'll make you say 'Pho-nomenal'!

Banh Mi Break

Food & Drink

Chomp on Banh Mi, the ultimate street-food sandwich stuffed with a smorgasbord of pickled veggies, pate, and meats, all in a crispy baguette!

Artsy Escape at Hidden Cafés

The Unexpected

Duck into hidden cafés, sip on Vietnamese coffee, and bask in the boho vibes. Find your caffeinated inspiration in Hanoi!