Hanoi, the capital and the second-largest city of Vietnam offers a mix of cultural, historical and culinary delights. This captivating city with over a thousand years of history has everything from pagodas, temples, green mountains, peaceful countryside and modern shiny buildings. If you are wondering, what different this vibrant city has to offer to its visitors, our list of unique things to do in Hanoi is sure to leave an everlasting impression on you.
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Immersive Things To Do In Hanoi
Since Hanoi is a place that offers plenty of incredible opportunities and you don’t know where to start from, we’ve narrowed down on 15 best things to do in Hanoi that will help you get the best of Hanoi during your trip.
1. Tour The Old Quarter
With each of the 36 streets in this rustic enclave devoted to a specific trade—such as hardware, porcelain, and haberdashery streets—Hanoi’s Old Quarter is the traditional center of the Vietnamese capital. Visitors can spend hours exploring the maze-like system of tiny lanes that haven’t changed much in decades. It is one of the best places to visit in Hanoi to experience the real essence of this place.
Book Now: Hanoi Historical and Heritage Tours half day
2. Walk Along Hoan Kiem Lake
Although it is practically required for every visitor to take a walk around the Hoan Kiem Lake in the center of Hanoi, Vietnam, it is ideal to visit early in the morning. Early mornings around the lake offer a glimpse of the local life; people congregate to work out, reading the newspaper, and sipping thick Vietnamese coffee from sidewalk baristas.
3. Offer Prayers At Ngoc Son Temple
Right in the middle of Hoan Kiem Lake is a Small Island on which is the Ngoc Son Temple. This temple is the most popular religious retreat in Hanoi. The monument is devoted to a 13th-century battle lord, the patroness of doctors, and an ancient scholar. A leisure stroll across the beautiful red wooden bridge from the Hoan Kiem Lake will connect to the temple.
4. Stand Well Back On Train Street
When racing trains clatter along rails crammed between residences, a peaceful area of the Old Quarter comes alive many times a day. It’s best to stay after the carriages pass to see how the natives manage life right beside the train street Hanoi, while the iPhone generation rushes to take selfies.
5. Cruise Ha Long Bay
Any journey to Vietnam must include gliding by the well-known limestone peaks that rise from the emerald water of Ha Long Bay. Although the bay can be reached from Hanoi in a day, it is preferable to stay longer with an overnight cruise due to the lengthy travel. Make sure this place is one of the things to do in Hanoi.
6. Hop On To A Motorbike
Riding on the back of a vintage scooter is a great way to experience a bygone settlement where many people still move around on two wheels. Vespa Adventures offers a half-day tour called Hanoi Insider that not only visits the city’s most popular tourist attractions but also gives you a taste of the hip cafe scene. A must activity in your list of top things to do in Hanoi.
7. Soak In The History Of The Imperial Citadel
The Imperial Citadel may not seem like much today, yet for over a millennium, it served as the center of Vietnamese military prowess. Located in a park, far from the busy streets of Hanoi, the UNESCO World Heritage Site is still the site of continuing archaeological excavations that are uncovering the mysteries of the past.
8. Escape The City To Mai Chau
Visit the breathtakingly lush and verdant mountains of Mai Chau to escape the bustle of Hanoi. The White Thai tribe resides in the valley, where visitors can experience a modest way of life by spending the night with a local family in their traditional farmhouse home. This is one of the best things to do in Hanoi if you are looking to understand what the local life is all about.
9. Travel Like A Local In A Cyclo
For generations, residents of Hanoi in Vietnam have traveled around the Hanoi city on cyclos, which are peaceful ways to see the Hanoi Old Quarter. However, to avoid the possibility of getting overcharged, make arrangements with your hotel concierge or a nearby tour operator to go on an organized trip rather than jumping on the first one that comes up.
10. Experience The Sampan Ride At Ninh Binh
Known as “Ha Long Bay on land” due to its tranquility, this picturesque site is a couple of hours’ drive from Hanoi. The ideal way to see the region which has hundreds of limestone mountains covered in verdant greenery, is by taking a sampan ride. The ride offers one to experience the country’s waterways, glimpses of the local life and scenery in a unique way.
11. See The Display Of Flowers At Quang Ba Flower Market
Residents of Hanoi adore flowers, and although the old area is replete with street side stands and bicycle-bound florists, it’s a joy to visit the Quang Ba Flower Market. Early in the morning is the right time to witness this incredible display of fresh flowers.
12. Gorge On Some Bahn Mi
This Vietnamese culinary staple, which began as a colonial breakfast in the 1950s, is a tribute to the French. Packed with meat, pate, and pickled vegetables, the crunchy French bread is seasoned with herbs and chili. Visit Bánh Mì Tram, Banh Mi Pho Hue, or Banh Mi 25 for the best.
Also Read: Food For Thought In Hanoi
13. Watch A Water Puppetry Show
Originating in the waterside communities scattered throughout the neighboring Red River Delta, water puppetry is a beloved Vietnamese ritual that has been practiced for decades. Travelers can witness the elaborate puppets dancing on the deep during performances at the renowned Thang Long Theatre, which is located next to Hoan Kiem Lake.
14. Slug Some Egg Coffee
Vietnamese people enjoy drinking coffee, and the distinctive egg coffee is a northern take on the standard barista-made brew. This odd mixture, which is topped with a whisked egg, is made in cafes located throughout the Old Quarter and is described as a combination of hot beverage and dessert. Try it at Dihn Cafe or Cafe Giang.
15. Bargain At Dong Xuan Market
With four levels filled with vendors offering anything from cheap trinkets and regional handicrafts to replicas of well-known brands, Dong Xuan Market is the capital’s most important indoor market. Don’t be shy to bargain here as bargaining is an integral part of the market culture. If done respectfully it can be a very fun and different experience.
Final Words
No matter what time of the year, you’ll always find something interesting here. With so many things to do in Hanoi, this destination deserves a prominent place on any traveler’s itinerary. Plan a visit to this enchanting city soon and do share your experiences with us, for we would love to hear from you.
FAQs
The weather in Hanoi during January is the coldest. The temperatures drop to around 14°C to 20°C during this time. For people who love the cold temperature, January is the best time to visit Hanoi. The spring months of (March-April) and autumn months of (September-November) are also a great time to visit as the weather is quite mild and pleasant.
The quickest way from Hanoi to Halong Bay are shuttle buses, private cars, motorbikes offering direct routes with no stops. For stunning aerial views of Halong Bay, try the Seaplanes that are the fastest.
The city of Hanoi offers a rich historical experience with its ancient landmarks, charming streets and a more budget-friendly atmosphere. On the other hand, Ho Chi Minh City boasts a dynamic, modern vibe with diverse dining options and vibrant nightlife.
