Best things to do in Hanoi

Welcome to Hanoi, Vietnam

Despite centuries of French and Chinese influence, Hanoi is a city that’s wholly (and proudly) Vietnamese. But its layered history is everywhere you look - from the Old Quarter with its French colonial buildings to the more than 600 temples and pagodas around the city. You can get right to the history of the city at sites like Hoa Lo Prison or the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum. Take it all in by foot (or scooter), making time for detours at some of the city’s newer additions: independent art galleries, boutique shops, and trendy cafes. If you’re coming just for the food, you’re not alone. Banh mi and bun cha are obviously musts, but save room for other street food faves: crispy crepes, stir-fried eel, shrimp cakes, and a few frosty beers to wash it all down. For the best of what Hanoi has to offer, get even more recs below.

Top best destinations to visit

1. Old Quarter

Hanoi’s lively Old Quarter comprises nearly 40 streets packed with shops selling all kinds of goods, each street named for its primary good or service.

2. Lake of the Restored Sword (Hoan Kiem Lake)

A rare breed of turtle enjoys this popular lake almost as much as countless locals and tourists. Hoan Kiem Lake is a dynamic daily tableau, from morning walks amid locals doing exercises on the shore, to young couples water-gazing on park benches, to the multiple shopping and sight-seeing opportunities in the vicinity.  Centrally located in the city, Hoan Kiem Lake serves as a massive home base, and provides endless people-watching and recreational opportunities on the edge of the Old Quarter.

3. Đường Tàu

Nestled in Hanoi’s Old Quarter, this narrow alley attracts travelers hoping to snap a picture on the active train track, and even catch a train whizz by! This alley is actually a residential area—many locals have converted their houses into quaint little cafes where you can sip on traditional egg coffee while waiting for the train to pass by—which happens a handful of times throughout the day. Be careful though, as the street can get really busy. Explore Train Street and other backstreets and alleyways of Hanoi on a tour with a local guide. They'll help you take photos, too!

4. Hoa Lo Prison

Colloquially known as "Hanoi Hilton," this famous prison has been mostly torn down. A museum occupies the remaining structure.

5. Temple of Literature & National University

The first University of the country that built from 1076, with unique architectural works and some of the oldest historical relics in Hanoi. It retains much of its original architectural layout, but with restorations made to repair damages caused by wars. There are multiple courtyards with structures (pavilions and stalls), statues and relics depicting the history of the university as well as the religious aspects of the facility. One of the best parts are the huge stone steles on turtle backs bear names of the country’s men who received Doctor Laureate through royal examinations

6. Hanoi Opera house

Resembling the Opéra Palais Garnier, Hanoi Opera House, built in 10 years since 1911 by two French architects. The magnificent building became one of the top landmarks in Hanoi. The Opera House hosts cultural entertaining performances, bamboo cirque, contemporary dance, orchestra concerts and government events. Come to the front gate to check availability and ticket to a performance in this iconic building.

7. Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum

**This place is temporarily closed** Every year many thousands of respectful citizens and tourists visit the final resting place of the country’s most notable historic figure.

8. Vietnamese Women's Museum

Focused on the contribution of women to Vietnam's history and culture, this museum highlights their roles in Vietnam's many military conflicts as well as in commerce, including features on female street vendors, women's role in the family, and more recently, single mothers in Vietnam.

9. Vietnam Museum of Ethnology

Vietnam Museum of Ethnology is a unit under Vietnam Academy of Scocial Sciences. Vietnam Museum of Ethnology is both a research centre and a public museum exhibiting the ethnic groups of Vietnam. The mission of the Museum is scientific research, collection, documentation, conservation, exhibition and preserving the cultural and historic patrimony of the nation's different ethnic groups. The museum also serves to guide research, conservation, and technology that are specific to the work of an ethnographic museum.

10. St. Joseph's Cathedral

In the heart of Hanoi, you can visit St. Joseph's Cathedral, a remnant of the French presence during the Indochina era. A beautiful building. Really a gorgeous church. On weekdays, you may tour the interior and there is no charge. They only request that you dress appropriately. On Sundays, at 11.30 AM, they have the Mass, in English. Get there early, because it is packed!

Top best hotels to stay

1. La Siesta Classic Ma May Hanoi Hotel

La Siesta Classic Ma May offers a selection of cozy rooms and suites with free WiFi in Hanoi. Featuring its own restaurant, the hotel also has a 24-hour front desk.

The hotel is 984 feet from Old City Gate, 1640 feet from Ngoc Son Temple and Dong Xuan Market. Noi Bai International Airport is 13 mi away.

2. Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi

An iconic landmark in the heart of Hanoi since 1901, the Metropole Hanoi has a long tradition as a luxury venue for prestigious events and as a popular rendezvous for business and leisure travelers, including famous playwrights, ambassadors, royalty, and heads of state. Blending colonial heritage with neo-classical luxury and a dash of modernity, the hotel is the first Sofitel Legend in the world and the recipient of numerous international awards for its fine service and enchanting ambiance.

3. HOTEL du LAC SIGNATURE

Hotel du Lac Signature in Hanoi offers a five-star experience with spa facilities, sauna, fitness center, terrace, restaurant, bar, indoor swimming pool, and free WiFi.

Located less than 0.6 miles from Hanoi Old City Gate and Hoan Kiem Lake, the hotel is about 14 miles from Noi Bai International Airport. Nearby attractions include Thang Long Water Puppet Theater and Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum.

4. Hotel de l'Opera Hanoi - MGallery Collection

Offering 5-star luxury, the iconic Hotel de l'Opera Hanoi - MGallery is a 5-minute walk from Hanoi Opera House. Inspired by 19th Century France, this stylish hotel features an indoor pool and fitness facilities.

Hotel de l'Opera Hanoi - MGallery is a 15-minute walk from Hanoi’s Old Quarter and approximately a 45-minute ride from Noi Bai International Airport.

5. The Oriental Jade Hotel

The Oriental Jade Hotel in Hanoi offers a five-star experience with a rooftop swimming pool, spa facilities, fitness center, sun terrace, restaurant, bar, and free WiFi.

Located about 15 miles from Noi Bai International Airport, the hotel is near attractions such as Hoan Kiem Lake (about 1,000 feet) and St. Joseph Cathedral (about 1,000 feet).

6. Bendecir Hotel & Spa

Bendecir Hotel & Spa in Hanoi offers family rooms with air conditioning, private bathrooms, and modern amenities. Each room includes a work desk, minibar, and free WiFi, ensuring a pleasant stay.

Located in the city center, the hotel is less than 0.6 miles from Hoan Kiem Lake and the Hanoi Opera House. Nearby attractions include the Thang Long Water Puppet Theater and Trang Tien Plaza, each within walking distance.

7. La Siesta Classic Hang Thung

La Siesta Classic Hang Thung in Hanoi offers a five-star experience with spa facilities, a saltwater swimming pool, fitness center, terrace, restaurant, bar, and free WiFi.

Located about 15 miles from Noi Bai International Airport, the hotel is near attractions such as Thang Long Water Puppet Theater (a two-minute walk), Hanoi Old City Gate (about 2,600 feet), and Hoan Kiem Lake (a nine-minute walk).

8. La Sinfonía del Rey Hotel & Spa

La Sinfonía del Rey Hotel & Spa in Hanoi offers family rooms with air conditioning, private bathrooms, and modern amenities. Each room includes a work desk, minibar, and free WiFi, ensuring a pleasant stay.

Located in the city center, the hotel is a short walk from Hoan Kiem Lake and the Thang Long Water Puppet Theater. Nearby attractions include the Hanoi Opera House and St. Joseph Cathedral, each less than 0.6 miles away. Noi Bai International Airport is about 15 miles from the property.

9. Eliana Signature hotel

Eliana Signature Hanoi Hotel in Hanoi offers family rooms with air conditioning, private bathrooms, and city views. Each room includes a work desk, minibar, and free WiFi.

Located in the city center, the hotel is a short walk from Thang Long Water Puppet Theater and Hoan Kiem Lake. Noi Bai International Airport is about 15 miles away. Highly rated for lakes, restaurants, and convenience.

10. Aira boutqiue hotel

Located in the peaceful French Quarter, Aira Boutique Hanoi Hotel & Spa has an outdoor swimming pool, a fitness room, and garden. The hotel is within 2297 feet to St. Joseph Cathedral, Vietnam Military History Museum, Hanoi Flag Tower, and Thang Long Citadel. Free WiFi access is available.

Top best restaurant in Hanoi Old quarter

1. Hoang's Restaurant

Hoang's Restaurant - Vietnamese Restaurant & Vegan Food located in heart of oldquater in walking street and night market. so it's easier for customers after eating luch or dinner to walk around walking street or visit night market . We are large restaurant with 3 floors where can accommodate up to 200 people at the same time. We serve 100% Vietnamese Cuisine & Vegetarian food. We are not stop there we will bring Vietnamse food around the world.

2. Madam Tran Restaurant

Located in the heart of Hanoi Old Quarter, Madam Tran Restaurant Offers the Authentic & the best of traditional Vietnamese of both Vegetarian and original cuisines international. Our menu offers a wide range of meals, from traditional countryside dishes to western inspired, all at a very affordable price. Our skilled kitchen team sources only the freshest and finest ingredients to guarantee the high standard ...etc. we also organize the daily cooking class which is really amazing performed by the Master Chefs at the private culture space. The restaurant has opened the Vietnamese Cuisine Cooking Class to invite our guests to discover how authentic Vietnamese food is cooked for themselves.Cooking is a valuable way to experience and immerse yourself into Vietnamese life, since so much Vietnamese culture is based around food.

3. Spices Villa Restaurant

Nestled in the vibrant heart of Hanoi's Old Quarter, yet serenely removed from the bustling streets, lies Spices Villa a Vietnamese Restaurant. More than just a place to eat, it's an experience, a journey into the soul of Vietnamese cuisine. Housed within a beautifully preserved French colonial villa, the restaurant exudes an air of timeless elegance and tranquil charm. Step through its doors and be transported to a bygone era, where the aromas of fragrant herbs and spices mingle with the hushed ambiance of a peaceful sanctuary, promising an authentic taste of Vietnam in an unforgettable setting.

4. The Rhythms Restaurant

Our restaurant concept is formed in harmony with the rhythms of the King’s Symphony, showcasing an orchestra of Vietnamese authentic cuisine embellished with the grandeur of royal ambience. The blending of sophisticated Western architecture with local heritage has created a beautiful melody, expected to touch the emotion of guests and take them on a unique sensory journey.

5. Streetside Dining

At our restaurant, we serve high-quality Vietnamese street food in a refined, cozy setting. Step into a nostalgic atmosphere that captures the charm of old Hanoi. Each dish tells a story—allow the flavors to guide you through the rich history and culture of the Hanoi Old Quarter.

6. Gánh Hà Nội Restaurant

Welcome to Gánh Hà Nội Restaurant & Vegetarian Food, your gateway to authentic Vietnamese cuisine. Perfectly situated at 115 Hang Buom, Hoan Kiem, in the heart of Ha Noi’s Old Quarter, we're your ideal post-adventure destination after visiting the walking street and night market. Delight in our signature Pho, Bun Cha, and Banh Xeo, alongside a variety of classic Vietnamese home-cooked dishes. Our menu caters to all, with traditional vegan food ensuring everyone in your family or large travel group savors the true taste of Vietnam. Let’s experience the essence of Hanoi's culinary magic together.

7. Hanoi-Oi Kitchen

Authentic Vietnamese Cuisine & Vegan | Authentic Vietnamese cuisine in the heart of Hanoi | From classic phở and fresh rolls to colorful vegan delights , our kitchen serves soulful flavors with local love

8. Tung's Kitchen

About Tung's Vietnamese cuisine & Cooking Class I am proud to assure that i will bring best food to customers in the world. I hope you enjoy the journey and good courses that I will take you on as I present a mix of traditional Vietnamese.

9. Hong Hoai's Restaurant

Welcome to Hong Hoai's Restaurant, a premier Vietnamese restaurant in the heart of Hanoi Old quarter . Celebrated for our authentic Vietnamese cuisine, we offer a diverse menu that highlights the rich flavors off Vietnam. At Hong Hoai's, we cater to all tastes with our extensive restaurant food selection, featuring hearty breakfast options, delicious lunch and dinner plates, and a variety of selectable vegetarian dishes. As a top choice among vegetarian restaurants, we delight both vegetarians and non-vegetarians alike. Experience the aromatic and intricate tastes of Vietnamese food at Hong Hoai's, where every dish is crafted to perfection. Join us for a memorable culinary journey that brings the essence of Vietnamese cuisine to your table.

10. Ding Doong Restaurant

Beautiful view of the St. Joseph Church. Great live Violin & Guitar perfomance. Looking for a private and intimate dining experience for your special occasions or business meetings? Ding Doong Restaurant has got you covered with our private dining room that can accommodate up to 20 guests. With a comfortable and stylish setting, it is ideal for small gatherings, parties and events. From birthday celebrations to corporate dinners, our private dining room is equipped with everything you need to make your occasion special. Book now for an unforgettable dining experience.

Top best food in Hanoi

1. Pho

Pho (phở) is synonymous with Vietnam. The Vietnamese noodle soup has gained worldwide fame and can be found on menus across the globe. Pho is perhaps Vietnam’s most famous dish.

2. Bun Cha

Bun cha is unlike anything you’ll find in Western cuisine. It’s sweet, salty, savoury, sharp, crispy yet chewy, soft yet crunchy. It is a delicious maelstrom of contrasting flavours and textures.

3. Banh Xeo

Banh Xeo (Bánh Xèo) is another Vietnamese classic that hasn’t been exported to the West yet. In simplest terms it is a fried, crispy batter pancake stuffed full of goodies. It can come with pork, prawns, vegetables, sliced beef or any or all of the above. The banh xeo is usually served alongside rice paper, fresh herbs and a dipping sauce. To eat, you smash the pancake, wrap it along with some herbs in the rice paper then dip and devour.

4. Bún Riêu

What is bun rieu (Bún Riêu)? That is a very difficult question to answer as bun rieu is endlessly varied. This staple noodle soup of Vietnam’s only constants are the white bun noodle and the red, tomato laced broth. After that it's anyone's game of what goes into a bun rieu. You might find pork, prawns, crab or even snails in your bun rieu. The variety in Hanoi alone is endless!

5. Banh Mi

Banh mi (bánh mì in Vietnamese) can be found all over Vietnam and is the ultimate crunchy sandwich. Influenced by the French, the Vietnamese take on a sandwich starts with a small crispy baguette. The small batons of bread are cut lengthways then slathered in gamey rich pate. On top of this pate, slices of meat are added before being topped with pickled vegetables, crunchy herbs and chilli sauce.

6. Hanoi Duck

Hanoi is famous for its duck dishes. Every foodie knows about the legendary, Michelin recommend, Don Duck Old Quarter Restaurant (location) but, there is also a whole crossroads dedicated to the cooking of our quacking compatriots.

7. Fried Eels and Eel Soup

We’ve already written about some pretty adventurous eating exploits in Vietnam (you can read more here) but believe us when we say, Hanoi’s eels are a must try! The eels are delicious and unique and worth it far more than just for the kudos and shock value you may think coming from the West.

8. Xoi

Xoi (xôi) is a Vietnamese staple. Often served for breakfast, you can find xoi anywhere from restaurants and streetside stands to being sold by passing vendors on the street.

Xoi is sticky rice which is topped with meat, pate, eggs or any number of different toppings. This hearty dish really sets you up for a day of exploring.

Top best drinks in Hanoi Old quarter

1. Bia Hoi

Super cheap, super fresh and super easy to drink. Bia hoi, meaning fresh beer, is a light and refreshing lager with an alcohol content of about 3%. It’s the most popular local beer in northern Vietnam, especially in Hanoi – where it’s found at almost every street corner.

2. Pho Cocktail

If you know what’s pho, then pho cocktail may sound a bit odd. But the making of this drink brought a young Hanoi mixologist the country’s best bartender title from a mixology competition in 2012.

3. Caphe Trung (egg coffee)

Yes, you’ve got it correctly – it’s egg coffee. Egg coffee is one of Hanoi’s most famous drinks. It’s so delicious and popular that you shouldn’t miss it on your visit to Hanoi.

4. Nau Da (sweeten condensed milk coffee)

Nau da (caphe sua da in the south), or iced coffee with sweeten condensed milk, is a traditional Vietnamese coffee. Of cause, you can have a good Vietnamese coffee almost every where in Vietnam, but the coffee is considered to be stronger when served in Hanoi.

5. Tra Da Via He (sidewalk iced tea)

Perhaps sidewalk iced tea is the most popular kind of shop in Hanoi, it can be seen every where in the city, from main streets to narrow alleys, around office buildings and luxury hotels, beside up-scale restaurants or commercial centers, and even steps away from a big café.

6. Nuoc Mia (sugar cane juice)

Nuoc mia, or sugarcane juice, is a fresh, sweet, and syrupy liquid that’s squeezed, from peeled sugarcanes. Vietnam’s ample sunlight makes it the perfect breeding land for sugarcane, which has been one of the country’s main crops since ancient times.

7. Nuoc Sau (dracontomelon juice)

With so many dracontomelon trees grown along the green tree-line boulevards in the city’s French Quarter, Hanoi is therefore a cradle of the dracontomelon fruit – which is widely used in local cuisine as a souring agent.