Hanoi is a city unlike any other in Southeast Asia. As Vietnam’s capital for more than a thousand years, it has witnessed dynasties rise and fall, colonial influences reshape its architecture, and modern development transform its skyline. Yet despite its rapid growth, Hanoi has managed to preserve its unique identity, where ancient temples stand beside French colonial villas, street vendors coexist with luxury restaurants, and centuries-old traditions remain deeply rooted in daily life.
For many travelers, Hanoi serves as the gateway to Vietnam. However, those who spend a few days exploring the city quickly discover that it is far more than a transit point. Hanoi offers a fascinating blend of history, culture, gastronomy, architecture, spirituality, and authentic local experiences.
Whether you are visiting for the first time or returning to uncover hidden corners, this comprehensive guide to the top 35 best things to do in Hanoi will help you make the most of your stay in one of Asia’s most captivating capitals.
1. Explore the Old Quarter
No visit to Hanoi would be complete without wandering through the legendary Old Quarter, famously known as the “36 Streets.” With its centuries-old architecture, bustling markets, traditional shops, hidden temples and vibrant street-food scene, this historic district is one of Hanoi’s most fascinating places, offering an authentic glimpse into the capital’s rich heritage and everyday life.
Known locally as "36 Streets," this historic district dates back nearly one thousand years and remains the beating heart of the city. Originally, each street specialized in a specific trade or craft. Although modern commerce has diversified the area, many streets still retain names reflecting their traditional activities.
Walking through the Old Quarter is like stepping into a living museum. Narrow lanes bustle with motorcycles, food vendors, street-side cafés, family-run shops, and traditional tube houses.
Highlights include Hang Gai street (Silk Street), Hang Bac street (Silver Street), Hang Dao street, Dong Xuan market, ancient communal houses, hidden temples.
One of the greatest pleasures here is simply getting lost. Every corner reveals something unexpected, whether a hidden shrine, a bustling market stall, or a charming café overlooking the street below.
The Old Quarter perfectly captures Hanoi’s energy, history, and authenticity, making it one of the very best things to do in Hanoi.
2. Walk around Hoan Kiem lake and visit Ngoc Son temple
No journey to the Vietnamese capital feels complete without spending time around Hoan Kiem lake, one of Hanoi’s most beloved landmarks and a natural starting point for discovering the historic city center. For travelers exploring the top 35 best things to do in Hanoi, a leisurely walk around the lake combined with a visit to Ngoc Son Temple offers an excellent introduction to the city’s history, legends, architecture, and everyday life.
Located beside the Old Quarter, Hoan Kiem Lake meaning “Lake of the Returned Sword” is closely associated with one of Vietnam’s most famous legends. According to tradition, Emperor Le Loi received a magical sword that helped him defeat the Ming forces in the 15th century. After peace had been restored, while the emperor was sailing on the lake, a divine golden turtle emerged from the water and reclaimed the sword. The lake was subsequently named Hoan Kiem in remembrance of this legendary event.
Today, the lake remains one of the social and cultural hearts of Hanoi. Visit early in the morning and you will see another side of the capital: residents practicing tai chi, exercising, jogging, chatting beneath old trees, or simply enjoying the cooler air before the streets become busy.
On a small island in the northern part of the lake stands Ngoc Son Temple, reached by crossing the elegant red-painted The Huc Bridge. Dedicated primarily to the military commander Tran Hung Dao, the temple combines spiritual significance with traditional Vietnamese architecture. Inside, visitors can admire ornate altars, historical objects, calligraphy, decorative details, and a preserved giant turtle that recalls the legends surrounding the lake.
In the evening, Hoan Kiem Lake takes on an entirely different atmosphere as the surrounding streets illuminate and local families, couples, and travelers gather along the waterfront. At weekends, when nearby streets are typically transformed into pedestrian areas, the neighborhood becomes especially lively with street performances, traditional games, music, and cultural activities.
Peaceful yet full of life, Hoan Kiem Lake is much more than a sightseeing stop. It is a place to slow down, observe local rhythms, and experience the distinctive atmosphere that makes Hanoi so captivating.
3. Visit Hanoi train street
Few places illustrate Hanoi’s extraordinary combination of everyday life and urban spectacle quite like Hanoi train street. Frequently included among the top 35 best things to do in Hanoi, this narrow railway corridor has become internationally famous for the remarkable proximity between passing trains, residential houses, and small cafés.
The railway runs through densely built neighborhoods where homes stand only a short distance from the tracks. When no train is approaching, the area can appear surprisingly calm, with residents going about their daily routines and visitors enjoying Vietnamese coffee beside the railway. Then, as the scheduled train approaches, the atmosphere changes completely.
For a few memorable moments, the train passes through the narrow corridor at remarkably close range. Residents and café operators clear objects away from the tracks, while visitors are required to remain safely within designated areas. Once the train has disappeared, daily life gradually returns to normal.
Beyond its photogenic character, Train Street provides an unusual glimpse into Hanoi’s urban history. The railway itself dates back to the French colonial period and remains part of Vietnam’s functioning rail network. The contrast between old houses, railway infrastructure, local cafés, and modern tourism has transformed this ordinary residential corridor into one of the capital’s most recognizable scenes.
However, visitors should remember that this is an active railway, not simply a tourist attraction. Access and safety restrictions can change, and certain sections may be controlled or temporarily closed by local authorities. Never enter restricted areas, stand on the tracks for photographs, or ignore instructions from railway staff and local authorities. It is advisable to check the current access conditions before visiting.
If accessible during your stay, enjoying a Vietnamese coffee while observing life beside the railway can be a fascinating experience. Hanoi Train Street is memorable not simply because of the train itself, but because it captures something characteristic of the capital: a city where history, local life, old architecture, and unexpected experiences often exist side by side.
4. Discover Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and presidential grounds
A visit to the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and presidential complex is an essential experience for travelers wishing to understand Vietnam’s modern history and national identity. It also deserves a prominent place among the top 35 best things to do in Hanoi, especially for visitors interested in the people and events that shaped contemporary Vietnam.
Located at historic Ba Dinh Square in Hanoi, the imposing granite mausoleum is the resting place of President Ho Chi Minh, who played a central role in Vietnam’s struggle for independence and the establishment of the Democratic Republic of Vietnam in 1945. The square itself is highly symbolic, as it was here that Ho Chi Minh read the Declaration of Independence on September 2, 1945.
Visitors entering the mausoleum are expected to dress respectfully, remain quiet and follow the instructions of the guards. Photography and filming are restricted inside. Beyond the mausoleum, the surrounding presidential grounds contain several important historical and cultural sites that together provide a deeper understanding of Ho Chi Minh’s life.
Presidential Palace
Built between 1900 and 1906 during the French colonial period, the Presidential Palace immediately stands out for its elegant yellow façade and European architectural style. Surrounded by mature trees and landscaped gardens, it provides a striking contrast with the much simpler residence that Ho Chi Minh later chose for himself.
The palace is generally admired from the outside, while visitors explore the surrounding historical grounds.
Ho Chi Minh’s stilt house
One of the most meaningful stops within the complex is Ho Chi Minh’s stilt house, where the Vietnamese leader lived and worked during the later years of his life.
Rather than residing in the grand Presidential Palace, Ho Chi Minh chose a modest wooden house inspired by the traditional stilt houses found in Vietnam’s mountainous regions. Its simple rooms, wooden furnishings and peaceful setting beside a pond reflect the modest lifestyle closely associated with him.
The contrast between the imposing colonial palace and this small wooden residence is particularly striking and offers visitors an interesting perspective on Ho Chi Minh’s public image and personal philosophy.
Ho Chi Minh Museum
Nearby, the Ho Chi Minh Museum provides additional historical context through photographs, documents, artifacts and thematic exhibitions devoted to his life, political activities and role in Vietnam’s twentieth-century history.
For international visitors, the museum is particularly useful for understanding how Ho Chi Minh’s story is presented within the broader narrative of Vietnamese independence, revolution and national development.
Gardens and Presidential grounds
The historical buildings are surrounded by leafy gardens, shaded pathways, old trees and a peaceful fishpond. These green spaces soften the solemn atmosphere of the mausoleum and make the presidential complex pleasant to explore at a leisurely pace.
Allowing sufficient time for the entire area is worthwhile, as the experience is about much more than simply seeing the mausoleum. Together, Ba Dinh Square, the Presidential Palace, Ho Chi Minh’s Stilt House, the museum and surrounding gardens offer valuable insight into a decisive period of Vietnamese history.
For travelers exploring the top 35 best things to do in Hanoi, this historic Hanoi complex provides an important introduction to the personalities, ideals and events that helped shape the country visitors encounter today.
5. Visit the Temple of Literature
Among the top 35 best things to do in Hanoi, visiting the Temple of Literature (Văn Miếu – Quốc Tử Giám) offers a fascinating journey into Vietnam’s long-standing respect for education, knowledge and scholarship. Located just west of Hanoi’s Old Quarter, this peaceful historical complex provides a welcome contrast to the capital’s lively streets.
Founded in 1070 under Emperor Lý Thánh Tông, the Temple of Literature was originally established to honor Confucius and distinguished scholars. In 1076, Quốc Tử Giám, often regarded as Vietnam’s first national university, was established within the complex. It initially educated members of the royal family and aristocracy before gradually opening its doors to talented students from other social backgrounds.
For centuries, this prestigious institution trained scholars who passed demanding examinations before serving the imperial court and administration. As a result, the site became an enduring symbol of Vietnam’s traditional emphasis on learning, merit and intellectual achievement.
The Temple of Literature is also remarkable for its harmonious architecture. Visitors pass through a succession of five courtyards, elegant gateways, ponds, mature trees and traditional buildings designed according to classical principles. One of its most recognizable landmarks is the graceful Khuê Văn Các, or Pavilion of the Constellation of Literature, built in 1805 and today considered an architectural symbol of Hanoi.
Another highlight is the collection of stone steles mounted on turtle-shaped pedestals, which record the names and achievements of successful doctoral candidates from royal examinations held between the 15th and 18th centuries. These steles provide valuable insight into Vietnam’s historic examination system and scholarly culture.
Beyond its historical importance, the temple remains closely connected with contemporary Vietnamese life. Students frequently come here, particularly around examination periods, to pray or wish for good results. During the Vietnamese Lunar New Year, the surrounding area also becomes associated with the traditional practice of requesting calligraphy representing wishes for wisdom, success and prosperity.
For travelers exploring the top 35 best things to do in Hanoi, the Temple of Literature is therefore much more than another ancient monument. Walking beneath its old trees and tiled roofs offers a deeper understanding of a value that has shaped Vietnamese society for generations: a profound respect for education and knowledge.
6. Explore the Imperial Citadel of Thang Long
Among the top 35 best things to do in Hanoi, exploring the Imperial Citadel of Thang Long is essential for anyone wishing to understand the extraordinary depth of the Vietnamese capital’s history. Located in the heart of Hanoi, this remarkable historical complex was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List in 2010 and reflects more than a thousand years of political, military and cultural development.
The site became the center of royal power when Emperor Ly Thai To established the capital of Thang Long in 1010. For centuries, successive Vietnamese dynasties expanded, rebuilt and transformed the imperial complex. Archaeological excavations have since revealed foundations, drainage systems, ceramics, architectural decorations and other remains dating from different historical periods.
Today, visitors can discover several important landmarks, including Doan Mon Gate, the Hanoi Flag Tower, Kinh Thien Palace foundations and the Hau Lau, as well as archaeological areas and exhibitions displaying objects uncovered during excavations. Another fascinating feature is the D67 House and underground bunker, associated with important military decisions during the Vietnam War.
More than a collection of ancient structures, the Imperial Citadel offers a journey through the many layers of Hanoi’s past, from imperial dynasties to the events of the twentieth century. Allow at least one to two hours to appreciate the site and its exhibitions.
7. Visit St. Joseph’s cathedral
Standing in Hanoi’s historic center, only a short walk from Hoan Kiem Lake, St. Joseph’s Cathedral is one of the capital’s most recognizable architectural landmarks. Completed in 1886, it is one of Hanoi’s most prominent surviving examples of French colonial-era religious architecture.
The cathedral was designed in a neo-Gothic style, with twin bell towers, pointed arches, tall windows and an imposing façade that recalls European medieval churches. Inside, stained-glass windows, religious statues and a quieter atmosphere contrast beautifully with the constant movement of the surrounding Old Quarter.
Yet visiting the cathedral is not only about architecture. The narrow streets and small squares around it have developed into one of Hanoi’s liveliest meeting places. Local residents and travelers gather at sidewalk cafés to drink Vietnamese coffee, lemon tea or fresh juice while watching everyday life unfold.
The atmosphere becomes particularly festive around Christmas, when the cathedral and neighboring streets are decorated and attract large crowds. Whether you are interested in architecture, photography or simply Hanoi’s street life, St. Joseph’s Cathedral deserves its place among the top 35 best things to do in Hanoi.
8. Enjoy a traditional water puppet show
For an entertaining introduction to northern Vietnamese culture, few experiences are as distinctive as attending a traditional water puppet show.
Known locally as múa rối nước, water puppetry developed in the villages of the Red River Delta centuries ago. Performances traditionally took place on flooded rice fields and village ponds, where puppeteers manipulated wooden figures across the water while remaining hidden behind a screen.
Modern performances preserve the spirit of this ancient folk art. Colorful puppets glide, dance and sometimes appear to leap across the water while presenting scenes inspired by rural life, farming, fishing, village festivals, historical stories, legends and traditional beliefs. Dragons, buffaloes, farmers and mythical creatures bring these stories to life.
Traditional musicians accompany the performance using Vietnamese instruments, percussion and singing, creating an experience that remains enjoyable even for spectators who do not understand Vietnamese.
Near Hoan Kiem Lake, the Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre is one of Hanoi’s best-known venues for experiencing this art form. Shows are generally compact enough to fit easily into a day of sightseeing, making water puppetry one of the most accessible cultural activities among the top 35 best things to do in Hanoi, particularly for families and first-time visitors.
9. Visit the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology
Vietnam is officially home to 54 ethnic groups, each contributing its own languages, traditions, clothing, architecture, beliefs and ways of life to the country’s cultural identity. To better understand this remarkable diversity, the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology is one of Hanoi’s most rewarding museums.
Its indoor exhibitions introduce visitors to different ethnic communities through traditional costumes, jewelry, agricultural tools, household objects, ritual items, photographs, musical instruments and multimedia displays. Rather than presenting Vietnamese culture as something uniform, the museum reveals the enormous diversity found between the mountains, highlands, valleys and plains of the country.
One of its greatest attractions is the extensive outdoor architectural area. Here, visitors can walk through reconstructions of traditional dwellings associated with different communities, including impressive communal and stilt houses. Seeing these structures at full scale provides a much clearer understanding of how architecture reflects climate, family organization and local traditions.
For travelers planning to continue toward destinations such as Sapa, Ha Giang, Mai Chau or the Central Highlands, the museum provides particularly useful cultural context before encountering ethnic communities during the journey.
Educational without feeling overly academic, the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology is easily one of the most enriching choices on a list of the top 35 best things to do in Hanoi.
10. Discover the Vietnamese Women’s Museum
Located close to Hoan Kiem Lake, the Vietnamese Women’s Museum offers a fascinating perspective on Vietnamese society through the lives, traditions and contributions of women.
Its thoughtfully designed exhibitions explore several dimensions of women’s lives, from family and marriage traditions to motherhood, clothing, work, religious practices and participation in periods of war and national history. Personal belongings, photographs, clothing, letters and recorded testimonies help transform broad historical themes into individual human stories.
One particularly interesting aspect of the museum is its presentation of traditions among women from different ethnic communities. Visitors can learn how marriage ceremonies, textiles, family structures and social customs vary considerably across Vietnam.
The museum also highlights the role of women in agriculture, commerce, family businesses and everyday economic life an aspect of Vietnamese society that travelers can still observe in markets, villages and family-run shops throughout the country.
Accessible, moving and exceptionally informative, the Vietnamese Women’s Museum provides a different perspective from Hanoi’s monuments and temples. For travelers interested in society and living culture rather than sightseeing alone, it is an important addition to the top 35 best things to do in Hanoi.
11. Visit Hoa Lo prison
A visit to Hoa Lo Prison Relic reveals one of the darker and more complex chapters of Hanoi’s modern history.
The prison was constructed by the French colonial administration in the late nineteenth century and was originally used primarily to incarcerate Vietnamese political prisoners and revolutionaries. Exhibitions recount the difficult conditions experienced by prisoners through surviving cells, historical documents, photographs, personal belongings and reconstructed scenes.
During the Vietnam War, part of the prison was later used to hold captured American pilots, who famously nicknamed it the “Hanoi Hilton.” Exhibitions covering this period provide another dimension to the site's long and complicated history.
Only a portion of the original prison complex survives today, but the remaining site has been transformed into a museum and memorial. Visitors should approach it as a historical place of remembrance rather than simply another tourist attraction.
For those seeking to understand the political struggles and conflicts that shaped modern Vietnam, Hoa Lo provides valuable context. It is therefore one of the most thought-provoking historical experiences among the top 35 best things to do in Hanoi.
12. Cross Long Bien bridge
Stretching across the Red River, Long Bien Bridge is much more than a transport link: it is one of Hanoi’s enduring historical symbols.
Opened in 1902 during the French colonial period, the bridge connected Hanoi with areas north and east of the Red River and became strategically important for transportation. It was repeatedly damaged during wartime bombing but continued to be repaired and used, giving it a powerful symbolic place in the city’s collective memory.
Crossing Long Bien Bridge on foot offers an entirely different perspective on Hanoi. From its pedestrian sections, you can look down toward the broad Red River, fertile agricultural plots and the neighborhoods along its banks. Trains, motorcycles and bicycles passing through the old steel structure add to its unmistakably local atmosphere.
For photographers, early morning and late afternoon are particularly rewarding. Soft light falls across the weathered metal framework, while farmers work below and the city gradually changes color in the distance.
Long Bien Bridge is not polished or monumental in the conventional sense. Its appeal lies precisely in its age, scars and connection with everyday Hanoi. Combining history, architecture, photography and local life, walking across this legendary bridge remains one of the most atmospheric experiences among the top 35 best things to do in Hanoi.
13. Try Hanoi’s legendary street food
No journey to the Vietnamese capital would be complete without exploring its extraordinary street-food culture. Among the top 35 best things to do in Hanoi, tasting local specialties is undoubtedly one of the most authentic ways to understand the city, its traditions and the everyday rhythm of its people.
In Hanoi, food is much more than a meal. It is part of the city’s cultural identity. Many family recipes have been preserved and refined over generations, while small restaurants and street vendors continue to prepare dishes using time-honored techniques. From steaming bowls of noodles served at dawn to charcoal-grilled pork filling narrow streets with irresistible aromas in the evening, Hanoi is a city best discovered with an appetite.
Each neighborhood has its favorite addresses and specialties, but several dishes deserve a place on every traveler’s culinary itinerary.
Pho
Pho is one of Vietnam’s most internationally recognized dishes, yet enjoying a bowl in Hanoi offers an experience that is difficult to reproduce elsewhere.
The dish combines silky rice noodles with a fragrant broth traditionally simmered for hours with bones and aromatic spices. Thinly sliced beef or chicken is added before serving, accompanied by herbs and seasonings according to the recipe.
For many Hanoians, pho is traditionally associated with breakfast, although today it can easily be enjoyed throughout the day. Sitting on a small stool beside a steaming bowl of pho while the city wakes up around you is one of those simple experiences that captures the spirit of Hanoi.
Bun Cha
Born in Hanoi, bun cha is another dish every food lover should try. It consists of charcoal-grilled pork patties and slices of pork belly served with rice vermicelli, fresh herbs and a slightly sweet-and-sour dipping sauce.
The smoky aroma of the grilled meat contrasts beautifully with the freshness of lettuce, coriander and other herbs. Diners usually add noodles and herbs gradually to the bowl of dipping sauce, creating a delicious balance of sweet, salty, sour and smoky flavors.
Simple, generous and deeply rooted in local culinary traditions, bun cha is one of Hanoi’s essential dishes.
Cha Ca
For something distinctly Hanoian, try cha ca, a famous dish of turmeric-marinated fish cooked with generous amounts of fresh dill and spring onions.
The fish is generally brought to the table in a hot pan and eaten with rice noodles, herbs, peanuts and dipping sauce. The combination of turmeric, sizzling fish and aromatic dill creates a flavor that is immediately recognizable.
Cha ca is more than a local specialty: it represents an important part of Hanoi’s culinary heritage and is especially enjoyable when shared around the table.
Banh Cuon
Light yet remarkably flavorful, banh cuon consists of thin sheets of steamed rice batter wrapped around a filling usually made from minced pork and wood-ear mushrooms.
The rolls are served with Vietnamese herbs, fried shallots and a light fish-sauce-based dipping sauce. Some versions are accompanied by slices of Vietnamese pork sausage.
Because the rice sheets must remain exceptionally thin and soft, watching an experienced cook prepare banh cuon is almost as enjoyable as eating it.
Bun Rieu
Another local favorite is bun rieu, a colorful noodle soup traditionally prepared with a tomato-based broth, freshwater crab, tofu and rice vermicelli.
Its slightly tangy broth, fresh herbs and contrasting textures make it particularly satisfying. Different vendors have their own recipes and accompaniments, which means two bowls of bun rieu can offer surprisingly different experiences.
Exploring Hanoi through these dishes allows visitors to go far beyond sightseeing. For food lovers, following the aromas through markets, alleyways and family-run eateries is easily one of the top 35 best things to do in Hanoi.
14. Sip Vietnamese coffee or try the famous egg coffee
Coffee in Hanoi is not simply something people drink for an energy boost. It is a social ritual and an integral part of everyday life.
Throughout the capital, you will find traditional coffee houses hidden inside old buildings, tiny sidewalk cafés, contemporary specialty-coffee shops and rooftop terraces overlooking the city. Hanoians come here to meet friends, discuss business, read the newspaper or simply watch the world pass by.
Vietnamese coffee is traditionally prepared using a small metal phin filter, producing a strong, concentrated brew that can be served black or with sweetened condensed milk.
But Hanoi’s most distinctive contribution to Vietnamese coffee culture is undoubtedly ca phe trung, or egg coffee.
What Is Hanoi Egg Coffee?
Egg coffee was created in Hanoi in the 1940s, when fresh milk was difficult to obtain. Egg yolks were whisked with sugar and other ingredients to produce a thick, creamy topping, which was then combined with strong Vietnamese coffee.
The result is surprisingly delicate: intense coffee beneath a smooth, sweet and almost custard-like layer. Its rich texture has sometimes led travelers to compare it to a drinkable dessert.
One of the best-known historic addresses associated with this specialty is Café Giang, founded by Nguyen Van Giang, who is widely credited with creating Hanoi’s egg coffee. Other long-established cafés, including Dinh Café, have also become popular places to experience the capital’s traditional coffee culture.
Beyond choosing a famous address, however, part of the pleasure lies in finding your own favorite café. Climb a narrow staircase in the Old Quarter, settle onto a tiny balcony overlooking a busy street or find a quiet corner near Hoan Kiem Lake.
Order a Vietnamese coffee, put your phone away for a moment and simply observe Hanoi. Motorbikes weave through traffic, street vendors pass with baskets of fruit, families gather for meals and old houses stand beside modern boutiques.
Taking time to experience this slow-paced café culture is one of the simplest yet most memorable entries among the top 35 best things to do in Hanoi.
15. Experience Hanoi’s nightlife at Ta Hien beer street
When daylight fades, Hanoi reveals another personality. Street kitchens become busier, cafés fill with young Hanoians, restaurants spill onto the sidewalks and the narrow lanes of the Old Quarter take on an energetic nighttime atmosphere.
At the center of this scene is Ta Hien Street, commonly known among international visitors as Hanoi’s “Beer Street.”
Located in the Old Quarter and within easy walking distance of Hoan Kiem Lake, Ta Hien becomes particularly lively after sunset. Locals and travelers sit shoulder to shoulder on the small stools that have become an unmistakable feature of Vietnamese street life.
What to expect on Ta Hien street
The attraction of Ta Hien does not come from luxury bars or sophisticated décor. Its appeal is precisely the opposite: it is informal, busy, affordable and wonderfully social.
Depending on the evening and venue, visitors can enjoy local draft beer and popular Vietnamese bottled beers, grilled meats, seafood and traditional street snacks, busy bars and casual restaurants, music and a lively street atmosphere and opportunities to meet Vietnamese residents and travelers from around the world
For a particularly local experience, try bia hoi, Vietnam’s famous fresh draft beer. Traditionally brewed for quick consumption and served at casual neighborhood establishments, it represents a distinctive part of northern Vietnam’s drinking culture.
Ta Hien becomes especially animated later in the evening, particularly on weekends. Those who prefer a calmer experience can arrive earlier, enjoy dinner and a drink, then walk through the surrounding streets of the Old Quarter.
As in any crowded nightlife district, it is sensible to keep phones, wallets and other valuables secure and to use a reputable taxi or ride-hailing service when returning to your hotel.
Whether you stay for one drink or spend an entire evening exploring the surrounding lanes, experiencing Hanoi after dark adds another dimension to your journey. From steaming bowls of pho and creamy egg coffee to a cold glass of bia hoi on a bustling sidewalk, Hanoi’s food and social culture demonstrates why these experiences belong among the top 35 best things to do in Hanoi.
They are not simply things to eat, drink or photograph. They are opportunities to sit alongside local residents, observe everyday traditions and experience Hanoi as a living city rather than merely a collection of monuments.
16. Dine at rooftop bars and luxury restaurants
After a busy day exploring temples, markets and historic streets, seeing Hanoi from above offers a completely different perspective. Spending an evening at a rooftop bar or enjoying dinner at an elegant restaurant is therefore a refined addition to the top 35 best things to do in Hanoi, especially for couples and travelers looking for a memorable night out.
Hanoi’s skyline is particularly beautiful around sunset, when the warm evening light falls over the tiled roofs of the Old Quarter, Hoan Kiem Lake, the Red River and the city’s mixture of French colonial buildings and contemporary towers. As darkness arrives, thousands of lights gradually transform the capital into an atmospheric urban panorama.
Rooftop bars can be found around the Old Quarter, Hoan Kiem Lake, the French Quarter and some of Hanoi’s modern districts. They are ideal places to enjoy a cocktail, Vietnamese coffee or glass of wine while watching the city below. Some venues offer live music or sophisticated lounge settings, while others focus primarily on panoramic views.
For a more complete experience, Hanoi also has an increasingly diverse fine-dining scene. Upscale restaurants reinterpret traditional Vietnamese recipes with contemporary presentation while others specialize in French, Japanese, Mediterranean and international cuisine. This combination reflects Hanoi itself: deeply attached to its traditions yet increasingly cosmopolitan.
Whether you are planning a romantic dinner, celebrating a special occasion or simply looking for a peaceful evening above Hanoi’s bustling streets, a rooftop experience reveals an elegant and modern side of the Vietnamese capital.
17. Join a Vietnamese cooking class
Vietnamese cuisine is one of the greatest pleasures of traveling through the country, but learning to prepare its dishes offers an even deeper understanding of local culture. For food lovers, taking a Vietnamese cooking class deserves a place among the top 35 best things to do in Hanoi.
Many cooking experiences begin at a traditional neighborhood market. Accompanied by a local chef or guide, participants learn how Vietnamese families select fresh ingredients and discover vegetables, aromatic herbs, tropical fruits, spices, noodles, tofu, meat and seafood used in everyday cooking.
This market visit is often as interesting as the cooking lesson itself. It provides an opportunity to observe Hanoi's daily rhythms, interact with local vendors and understand why freshness, balance and seasonal ingredients play such an important role in Vietnamese cuisine.
Back in the kitchen, an experienced instructor explains how to combine ingredients and balance the characteristic flavors of Vietnamese cooking: salty, sweet, sour, spicy and aromatic. Depending on the class, you may learn to prepare well-known specialties such as pho, bun cha, fresh or fried spring rolls, green papaya salad and other traditional dishes.
The experience usually ends with participants sitting together to enjoy the meal they have prepared. Beyond learning recipes, a cooking class provides practical knowledge that you can take home and recreate for family and friends.
It is also an excellent activity for couples, families and small groups, particularly for travelers who want more than a conventional sightseeing program. Instead of simply eating Vietnamese food, you discover the ingredients, techniques and traditions behind it.
18. Take a scooter or cyclo tour
Few things capture Hanoi’s personality better than its streets. Motorbikes weave through narrow lanes, street vendors set up small stalls on pavements, families gather around tiny tables for breakfast, and historic buildings appear unexpectedly between busy neighborhoods.
Exploring these streets by scooter is one of the most immersive experiences among the top 35 best things to do in Hanoi. Rather than remaining on the main tourist routes, a guided scooter tour can take you into residential neighborhoods, traditional markets, hidden alleyways and lesser-known corners that many first-time visitors would otherwise miss.
For travelers unfamiliar with Hanoi traffic, joining a tour with an experienced local driver is generally preferable to riding independently. Sitting behind someone who knows the streets allows you to concentrate on the surroundings while experiencing the extraordinary flow of Hanoi traffic from a local perspective.
Routes vary considerably. Some tours concentrate on historic landmarks, while others combine sightseeing with street-food tastings. You might travel through the Old Quarter and French Quarter, pass along the Red River, discover local markets or stop at small family-run eateries to taste specialties rarely found in international restaurants.
Discover Hanoi at a slower pace by cyclo
If a scooter feels too adventurous, a traditional cyclo offers a gentler alternative. These three-wheeled bicycle taxis have long been associated with Hanoi and remain a popular way to explore the central districts.
A cyclo ride through the Old Quarter allows you to observe the architecture, shopfronts and street life without having to navigate the crowded pavements yourself. The slower pace makes it particularly pleasant for photography and for appreciating details that can easily be missed when traveling by car or motorbike.
The French Quarter is another interesting area to explore this way, with its tree-lined avenues, colonial-era villas and grand public buildings creating a striking contrast with the dense commercial streets of the Old Quarter.
Scooter and cyclo tours ultimately offer two very different ways of experiencing the same fascinating city. A scooter brings excitement, mobility and access to lesser-known neighborhoods, while a cyclo provides a slower and more nostalgic journey through Hanoi’s historic heart. Both allow visitors to observe everyday life at close range, making them worthwhile experiences when discovering the top 35 best things to do in Hanoi.
19. Shop for silk, handicrafts and souvenirs
Shopping for traditional products is one of the most enjoyable experiences to include among the top 35 best things to do in Hanoi, especially if you want to bring home something more meaningful than an ordinary souvenir. From the narrow streets of the Old Quarter to specialized boutiques and traditional craft villages around the capital, Hanoi offers an impressive variety of products reflecting generations of Vietnamese craftsmanship. Some of the most interesting items to look for include:
Silk: Vietnamese silk is appreciated for its softness, lightness and elegance. Scarves, dresses, shirts, ties and decorative accessories are widely available. For a deeper experience, consider an excursion to Van Phuc Silk village, an ancient weaving village southwest of central Hanoi.
Lacquerware: Bowls, trays, boxes, paintings and decorative objects made using traditional lacquer techniques are among Vietnam's most distinctive handicrafts. Quality pieces can require numerous stages of meticulous work.
Ceramics: For pottery lovers, Bat Trang Ceramic village, located on the outskirts of Hanoi along the Red River, is well worth visiting. The village has a long ceramic-making tradition and produces everything from everyday tableware to sophisticated decorative pieces.
Embroidery and textiles: Hand-embroidered paintings, tablecloths, cushion covers, bags and other decorative objects make beautiful gifts while showcasing the patience and skill of Vietnamese artisans.
Traditional crafts: Bamboo objects, handmade paper products, conical hats, wood carvings and locally designed accessories are other interesting choices.
When shopping in Hanoi, take time to compare quality rather than purchasing the first item you see. Traditional markets are ideal for atmosphere and bargaining, while reputable craft shops and artisan workshops are generally better choices when authenticity and workmanship are priorities.
Beyond simply buying souvenirs, shopping for locally made products is an opportunity to discover Vietnamese craftsmanship, meet artisans and support traditional skills that continue to be passed from one generation to the next.
20. Visit Tran Quoc pagoda on West lake
Standing peacefully beside the waters of West Lake (Ho Tay), Tran Quoc Pagoda is one of Hanoi's most beautiful and historically significant Buddhist landmarks. Its picturesque location, spiritual atmosphere and distinctive architecture make it an essential stop on any list of the top 35 best things to do in Hanoi.
With a history of around 1,500 years, Tran Quoc is generally regarded as the oldest Buddhist pagoda in Hanoi. Originally established during the 6th century, the pagoda was later relocated to its present position on a small peninsula along West Lake.
Its most recognizable feature is the tall red-brick stupa rising gracefully above the temple grounds. Visitors can also admire smaller stupas, Buddhist statues, incense-filled shrines, mature trees and architectural details characteristic of Vietnamese Buddhist traditions.
Despite being relatively close to Hanoi's busy center, Tran Quoc retains a remarkably peaceful atmosphere. Monks, local worshippers and visitors come here to pray, make offerings or simply enjoy a quiet moment beside the lake.
Late afternoon is particularly pleasant. As the sun begins to descend over West Lake, the pagoda and its surroundings take on warm golden tones, creating one of Hanoi's most photogenic scenes.
Visitors should dress respectfully, covering shoulders and knees, speak quietly and avoid disturbing people who are praying. Tran Quoc is not merely a sightseeing attraction but an active place of worship deserving appropriate respect.
Combining Tran Quoc Pagoda with a walk around West Lake, Quan Thanh Temple and the nearby Truc Bach area makes an excellent half-day exploration of a quieter side of Hanoi.
21. Have a unique meal in Snake Village
Travelers interested in unusual culinary traditions can venture beyond Hanoi's historic center to Le Mat village, famous for its long association with snake breeding and traditional snake-based cuisine.
Located in Long Bien, east of the Red River, Le Mat offers an experience very different from the pho stalls, bun cha restaurants and bustling markets normally associated with Hanoi's food scene. For adventurous food lovers, discovering this village can therefore be one of the more unconventional experiences among the top 35 best things to do in Hanoi.
The village has a long-standing local tradition connected with snakes, and several restaurants specialize in dishes prepared from snake meat. Depending on the establishment and availability, the meat may be prepared in different ways and served as part of a multi-course meal.
However, visiting Le Mat does not necessarily mean you have to eat snake. Travelers who are uncomfortable with the experience can simply explore the village, learn about its traditions and discover another facet of Hanoi's culinary heritage.
If you choose to dine here, select an established restaurant and avoid consuming products from protected or illegally traded wildlife. Responsible travel should always take priority over curiosity, particularly when an experience involves animals.
Le Mat is certainly not an excursion for everyone, but for travelers interested in Hanoi's lesser-known customs, it reveals how diverseand sometimes surprising the capital's culinary traditions can be.
22. Visit the Perfume Pagoda
About 60 kilometers southwest of central Hanoi lies one of northern Vietnam's most celebrated Buddhist pilgrimage destinations: the Perfume Pagoda, or Chua Huong.
Despite its name, the Perfume Pagoda is not simply one temple. It is an extensive religious complex of temples, shrines and sacred caves scattered among forested limestone mountains. Combining spirituality, dramatic scenery and a memorable journey by water, it deserves its place among the top 35 best things to do in Hanoi, particularly for travelers with an additional day available outside the capital.
One of the highlights is the journey itself. Visitors traditionally travel along the Yen Stream by small boat, gliding between limestone hills and lush vegetation. The atmosphere can be wonderfully peaceful outside the main pilgrimage season.
From the landing area, the journey continues through the religious complex. Depending on your chosen route and physical condition, you can walk or use the cable car for part of the ascent.
The spiritual heart of the complex is Huong Tich Cave, a sacred natural grotto housing Buddhist altars and statues. The cave has long been revered by Vietnamese pilgrims and is associated with the famous description “Nam thien de nhat dong”, commonly understood as one of the finest caves of the southern realm.
The experience changes significantly according to the season. During the Perfume Pagoda Festival, traditionally held in the early months of the lunar calendar, enormous numbers of Vietnamese pilgrims travel here. The atmosphere is vibrant and culturally fascinating, but it can also become extremely crowded.
Outside the festival period, the landscape is considerably quieter, allowing visitors to better appreciate the mountains, waterways and contemplative character of the site.
Allow a full day from Hanoi, wear comfortable walking shoes and carry water, particularly during warmer months. For travelers who enjoy combining culture, religion and nature, the Perfume Pagoda is one of the capital's most rewarding excursions.
23. Attend a performance at the Hanoi Opera House
For an elegant evening in the Vietnamese capital, consider attending a cultural or artistic performance at the Hanoi Opera House, one of the city's most distinguished architectural landmarks.
Located near the French Quarter and Hoan Kiem Lake, the building was constructed during the French colonial period and completed in the early 20th century. Its imposing façade, columns, balconies and ornate architectural details reflect the European influences that shaped this part of Hanoi.
The Opera House is often compared stylistically with prestigious French theaters, particularly the Palais Garnier in Paris, although it possesses its own proportions, history and architectural identity.
Today, the venue continues to host a changing program of classical concerts, opera, ballet, traditional Vietnamese performances and other cultural events. Because performances vary throughout the year, it is advisable to check the current program and purchase tickets in advance when a particular event interests you.
Even if you do not attend a performance, the surrounding area deserves a visit. The nearby streets reveal another face of Hanoi, with broad avenues, historic villas and major colonial-era buildings contrasting dramatically with the dense lanes of the Old Quarter.
For the complete experience, combine an evening performance with dinner in the French Quarter or a leisurely walk around Hoan Kiem Lake afterward.
Among the top 35 best things to do in Hanoi, an evening at the Hanoi Opera House offers something different from temples, markets and street-food adventures. It provides an opportunity to experience the capital through music, architecture and performing arts—a refined conclusion to a day exploring one of Southeast Asia's most culturally fascinating cities.
24. Celebrate Hanoi’s Tet festival
Tet Nguyen Dan, commonly known as Tet, is Vietnam's most important celebration.
Occurring during the Lunar New Year, Tet symbolizes renewal, prosperity, and family unity.
In the weeks leading up to Tet, Hanoi becomes exceptionally vibrant.
Visitors can experience:
Flower Markets
Peach blossoms and kumquat trees fill streets and public squares.
Traditional Decorations
Homes, temples, and businesses are decorated with red and gold ornaments.
Cultural Activities
Traditional music, performances, and ceremonies take place throughout the city.
Family Traditions
Tet offers a rare opportunity to witness authentic Vietnamese customs and values.
Experiencing Tet provides one of the deepest cultural insights available to visitors in Hanoi.
25. Enjoy the Mid-Autumn festival in Hanoi : Lanterns and Mooncakes
Among the many cultural celebrations held throughout the year, the Mid-Autumn festival is one of the most enchanting events in Hanoi.
Usually celebrated in September or October, the festival is traditionally dedicated to children and family reunions. During this period, the streets of Hanoi become vibrant with colorful lanterns, traditional toys, lion dances, and festive decorations.
The Old Quarter, particularly Hang Ma street, becomes the center of celebrations.
Visitors can admire thousands of colorful lanterns, traditional lion and dragon dances, handmade toys and crafts, beautiful mooncake displays, cultural performances.
Families gather in public spaces to celebrate under the full moon while children proudly carry illuminated lanterns through the streets.
For photographers and culture lovers, the Mid-Autumn festival offers some of the most picturesque scenes in Hanoi.
26. Eat Bún Chả Hương Liên – Like Obama and Anthony Bourdain
Food lovers visiting Hanoi often make a special pilgrimage to Bun Cha Huong Lien.
This modest restaurant became internationally famous in 2016 when former U.S. President Barack Obama and renowned chef Anthony Bourdain shared dinner here during Obama's official visit to Vietnam.
The meal quickly became a global symbol of Vietnam's street food culture.
Visitors can still order the famous "Obama Combo," which includes Bun Cha, fresh spring rolls, local beer.
While the restaurant's fame attracts visitors from around the world, the quality of the food remains the primary reason for its popularity.
The grilled pork is perfectly seasoned, while the dipping sauce balances sweetness, acidity, and umami flavors beautifully.
Eating here is not simply a meal; it is an opportunity to participate in a memorable chapter of Hanoi's culinary history.
27. Explore the French Quarter
While the Old Quarter reflects Hanoi's ancient heritage, the French Quarter showcases another fascinating chapter of the city's history.
Developed during the colonial period, this district features wide tree-lined boulevards, elegant villas, government buildings, luxury hotels, art galleries, fine dining restaurants.
Walking through the French Quarter feels remarkably different from exploring the narrow streets of the Old Quarter.
Architectural highlights include Hanoi Opera House, State Bank of Vietnam, Sofitel Legend Metropole, various colonial mansions.
The district provides insight into the profound influence of French architecture on Hanoi's urban development.
28. Help locals practice English around Hoan Kiem lake
One of Hanoi's most heartwarming experiences costs absolutely nothing.
Every weekend, especially in the evenings, groups of students gather around Hoan Kiem lake hoping to practice their English with foreign visitors.
These informal conversations often lead to cultural exchanges, new friendships, insightful discussions, local recommendations, memorable encounters.
Vietnamese students are often eager to improve their communication skills while learning about different cultures.
For travelers, this activity offers a unique opportunity to interact directly with local residents beyond typical tourist experiences.
Many visitors describe these spontaneous conversations as among their most meaningful memories of Hanoi.
29. Discover a hidden café through a narrow alley
One of Hanoi's most charming secrets lies behind its narrow alleyways.
At first glance, many alleys appear to lead nowhere. However, visitors who venture inside often discover hidden cafés, art spaces, boutique shops, and rooftop terraces.
Some of the city's most famous hidden cafés are concealed behind apartment blocks, tiny passageways, courtyards, historic buildings.
These hidden venues often offer exceptional coffee, quiet atmospheres, artistic interiors, lake views, authentic local charm.
Exploring Hanoi's hidden cafés perfectly reflects the city's character—full of surprises waiting to be discovered by curious travelers.
30. Take a vintage jeep city tour
A vintage jeep tour offers one of the most immersive ways to experience Hanoi.
Inspired by military vehicles once used throughout Vietnam, these tours combine adventure, sightseeing, and local interaction.
Unlike traditional bus tours, vintage jeeps can access smaller streets and less-visited neighborhoods.
Typical routes include the Old Quarter, the French Quarter, Long Bien bridge, West lake, local markets, hidden residential districts.
Knowledgeable guides provide fascinating commentary about Hanoi's history, culture, and daily life.
For travelers seeking a unique perspective of the city, a vintage jeep tour is an excellent choice.
31. Admire Bach Ma temple
Bach Ma temple is one of Hanoi's oldest and most significant spiritual landmarks.
Constructed in the ninth century, it is among the Four Sacred temples that historically protected ancient Thang Long, the former name of Hanoi.
According to legend, Emperor Ly Thai To followed a white horse whose footprints guided the construction of the city walls. The temple was subsequently dedicated to this sacred horse spirit.
Visitors can admire ancient wooden architecture, intricate carvings, traditional altars, historic artifacts, peaceful courtyards.
Despite being located within the busy Old Quarter, the temple offers a tranquil atmosphere that feels far removed from the surrounding streets.
32. Walk around the Military History Museum
For those interested in Vietnam's military history, the Military History Museum is a fascinating destination.
The museum chronicles centuries of Vietnamese resistance and independence movements.
Outdoor exhibits feature tanks, fighter aircraft, artillery, military vehicles.
Inside, visitors can explore collections documenting major historical periods, including ancient dynasties, French colonial resistance, the First Indochina War, the Vietnam War.
The museum provides valuable context for understanding Vietnam's modern history and national identity.
33. Visit traditional craft villages around Hanoi
Beyond the city center, numerous traditional craft villages preserve skills passed down through generations.
These villages offer visitors opportunities to witness artisans at work while learning about Vietnam's rich cultural heritage.
Bat Trang ceramic village
Located beside the Red River, Bat Trang has produced ceramics for over 700 years.
Visitors can observe craftsmen creating pottery, participate in ceramic workshops, purchase handmade products.
Van Phuc silk village
Renowned throughout Vietnam, Van Phuc specializes in high-quality silk production.
Travelers can learn about silk weaving techniques, traditional textile production, Vietnamese fashion heritage.
Quang Phu Cau incense village
This picturesque village has become famous for its vibrant red incense sticks drying in the sun.
It offers incredible photography opportunities and insight into traditional incense production.
Chuong conical hat village
Visitors can observe artisans crafting Vietnam's iconic non la (conical hats) using techniques perfected over centuries.
These villages provide some of the most authentic cultural experiences near Hanoi.
34. Learn Vietnamese calligraphy
Calligraphy occupies a special place within Vietnamese culture.
Influenced by Confucian traditions, calligraphy has long been associated with scholarship, wisdom, and artistic expression.
Visitors interested in cultural immersion can participate in workshops that teach brush techniques, character composition, traditional symbols, philosophical meanings.
During Tet celebrations, calligraphy masters often create personalized works featuring words such as happiness, prosperity, longevity, success, peace.
Learning calligraphy offers a deeper appreciation of Vietnam's intellectual and artistic heritage.
35. Watch the sunset over West lake
No visit to Hanoi is complete without experiencing a sunset over West lake.
As the largest freshwater lake in the city, West lake offers a refreshing contrast to Hanoi's bustling streets.
During the late afternoon, locals and visitors gather along the waterfront to enjoy walking paths, lakeside cafés, scenic viewpoints, cycling routes, quiet gardens.
As the sun slowly descends, the sky transforms into shades of gold, orange, pink, and purple reflected across the water.
Nearby attractions include Tran Quoc pagoda, Quan Thanh temple, lakeside restaurants, trendy cafés.
Watching the sunset here provides a peaceful and memorable conclusion to any Hanoi itinerary.
Conclusion: Why Hanoi deserves a place on every traveler’s bucket list ?
Hanoi is far more than Vietnam's political capital. It is a city where ancient traditions and modern life coexist in remarkable harmony.
From exploring the bustling Old Quarter and tasting legendary street food to visiting centuries-old temples, attending cultural performances, discovering hidden cafés, and meeting welcoming locals, the range of experiences available is extraordinary.
The top 35 best things to do in Hanoi reveal the many dimensions of this fascinating city:
- Rich history spanning more than 1,000 years
- Magnificent cultural heritage
- Exceptional cuisine
- Unique architecture
- Authentic local experiences
- Vibrant festivals and traditions
Whether you spend three days, a week, or even longer in Hanoi, the city continually rewards curiosity and exploration.
For many travelers, Hanoi becomes not only the starting point of a journey through Vietnam but also one of its most unforgettable highlights. Its charm, energy, and authenticity leave lasting memories long after the trip has ended, making it one of Southeast Asia's most captivating destinations.
