Things to do in Hanoi
Discover the best attractions and experiences Hanoi has to offer
Historic Monuments
Explore Hanoi's enduring monuments that reveal the city's layered history, from imperial capitals to colonial legacies.
Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum
A grand granite monument housing the preserved body of Vietnam's revolutionary leader, set in ceremonial surroundings.
Temple of Literature (Van Mieu)
Vietnam's first university, with tranquil courtyards and a gate-lined wall of stone stelae.
Imperial Citadel of Thang Long
Ancient fortress complex and UNESCO site that testifies to Hanoi's royal past.
Ngoc Son Temple
Historic temple on Jade Islet linked by the Huc Bridge, situated inside Hoan Kiem Lake.
One Pillar Pagoda
Iconic wooden pagoda rising from a lotus-shaped stone garden, a symbol of Hanoi.
Museums
Gain insight into Vietnam's people, history, and arts through respected Hanoi museums.
Vietnam Museum of Ethnology
Gives a vibrant overview of Vietnam's 54 ethnolinguistic groups with engaging exhibits.
Vietnamese Women's Museum
Celebrates women's roles in Vietnamese history with interactive displays and artifacts.
Vietnam National Museum of History
Chronicles Vietnam’s past from ancient times to the modern era through well-curated galleries.
Vietnam National Fine Arts Museum
Showcases Vietnamese painting, sculpture, and new media across multiple floors.
Religious Monuments
Religious landmarks reflect Hanoi's spiritual heritage, from pagodas to grand cathedrals.
St. Joseph's Cathedral (Notre-Dame Basilica)
A neo-Gothic French-era cathedral with stained glass and a tranquil interior.
Tran Quoc Pagoda
One of Hanoi's oldest Buddhist temples situated on a picturesque lakeside site.
Quan Thanh Temple
Ancient Taoist temple guarding the northern city gate with a towering bronze statue.
National & Theme Parks
Natural escapes around Hanoi range from protected forests to hill-country landscapes.
Cuc Phuong National Park
Vietnam’s oldest national park with lush forests, caves, and wildlife near Hanoi.
Tam Dao National Park
Cool mountain scenery and forest trails just a short drive from the city.
Neighborhoods
Dive into Hanoi's distinctive districts and street-life neighborhoods.
Old Quarter (Phố cổ Hà Nội)
A warren of narrow streets packed with shops, cafés, and vibrant energy.
French Quarter (Pháp Mỹ area)
Elegant colonial-era lanes and grand buildings near Hoàn Kiếm Lake.
West Lake Area (Ho Tây)
Chill lakeside vibes with cafés, temples, and sunset views.
Long Bien District & Long Bien Bridge
Historic crossing over the Red River with great river views and trains.
Free Things to Do
Enjoy Hanoi without spending a dong by exploring open spaces and street life.
Stroll around Hoan Kiem Lake
Early morning or evening walks around the lake with views of the glowing bridges.
Old Quarter Street-watching
Wander the bustling lanes to see daily life and quirky shops.
Watch locals practice Tai Chi in parks
Morning Tai Chi sessions offer a glimpse of Vietnamese fitness culture.
Cross Long Bien Bridge on foot
A scenic, free walk with river views and urban energy.
Gastronomy
Sample Hanoi’s iconic dishes and local flavors in classic venues.
Phở at Phở Bát Đàn
Classic Hanoi pho with clear broth and tender noodles.
Bún chả at Bún chả Hương Liên
Grilled pork and noodles served with fresh herbs and dipping sauce.
Chả cá Lã Vọng
Spiced fish fried with dill and served with rice noodles.
Egg coffee at Café Giảng
Creamy, foamy egg-based coffee distinctive to Hanoi.
Bánh mì from Bánh Mì Phương
Crisp, flavorful Vietnamese baguette sandwiches from a famed stall.
Nightlife
After dark, Hanoi comes alive with bars, live music, and lively streets.
Ta Hien Street (Beer Street)
Bustling alley lined with bars offering cheap beer and social vibes.
Train Street evening experience
A famous stretch where trains pass by (watch from a safe distance) at dusk.
Rooftop bars around Hoàn Kiếm Lake
Urban views paired with cocktails atop Hanoi’s skyline.
Entertainment
Catch traditional and contemporary performances in Hanoi’s theaters and plazas.
Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre
A UNESCO-worthy puppet show performed on a water stage.
Hanoi Opera House
An elegant venue hosting orchestral concerts, ballets, and theater.
Traditional music and street performances in the Old Quarter
Live, informal performances weaving local culture into the evening stroll.
Sports
Active options to enjoy Hanoi’s outdoors and sports culture.
Cycling around West Lake
Ride along the lake with city views and breezy mornings.
Watch a match at My Dinh National Stadium
Experience Vietnamese football culture on a big-stage day.
Jog or relax in Lenin Park
Green space perfect for a morning run or casual stroll.
Off the Track
Venture beyond central Hanoi to discover village life and lesser-known sites.
Bat Trang Ceramic Village
Hands-on pottery and traditional ceramic crafts just outside the city.
Duong Lam Ancient Village
An ancient village with well-preserved stilt houses and pagodas.
Trang An (Ninh Binh) day trip
Scenic boat rides through limestone karst landscapes near Hanoi.