Visit Hanoi to try typical Vietnamese food, see unique art performances and savour some of the most captivating sights in Southeast Asia. Thanks to its rich cultural heritage and tumultuous history there are many interesting attractions to explore in the bustling city, which has 2.6 million people in its urban centre.
Hanoi first became a capital just over 1,000 years ago, when it was still called Thang Long (Rising Dragon). It became Ha Noi (Between Two Rivers) in 1831. The city has since been occupied by the French and the Japanese and bombed by the Americans, events which have clearly left their marks. Through all this, Hanoi has stayed traditional and proud.
The language and cultural differences can be both challenging and interesting. For example, the Vietnamese consider pointing your finger to be rude. You should use your whole hand instead. Bear this in mind while browsing the Dong Xuan Market.
This market is in the Old Quarter, a good place to find souvenirs, traditional merchants and typical Vietnamese and French cuisine. Try pho (rice noodle soup) and sample Vietnam’s favourite brew, Bia Hoi beer, to get a taste of the Orient. At night, visit the nearby Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre with mesmerizing reenactments of dragon-filled legends.
Learn more about Hanoi’s legends in the temples that surround lakes such as Hoan Kiem (Lake of the Restored Sword) and Ho Tay (West Lake).
The Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum contains the embalmed body of the revered revolutionary leader. Learn about his constant struggle for his country’s freedom at the Ho Chi Minh Museum.
Book a trip on a wooden vessel to Ha Long Bay to cruise the turquoise waters around thousands of limestone islets.
To get around in Hanoi you can rent a bike or pay to ride in a traditional “cyclo”. Public buses are cheap and service the whole city. If you hail a taxi, negotiate a fixed price in dong (the Vietnamese currency), because the metres are often manipulated.
Hanoi Travel Guide
Where to stay in Hanoi
Old Quarter
Old Quarter is beloved for its panoramic lake views. Take some time to explore sights in the area like Hoan Kiem Lake and Hang Gai Street.
Hoan Kiem
Panoramic lake views interesting history and top sights from Hoan Kiem Lake to St. Joseph's Cathedral of Hanoi – discover Hoan Kiem, a destination also famous for its shopping.
French Quarter
The ample dining options and fantastic lake views are top of the list for many visitors to French Quarter. A stop by Hoan Kiem Lake or Ly Thai To Park might round out your trip.
Tay Ho
The ample dining options and fantastic lake views are top of the list for many visitors to Tay Ho. A stop by West Lake or Ho Tay Water Park might round out your trip.
Ba Dinh
The ample dining options and fantastic lake views are top of the list for many visitors to Ba Dinh. A stop by Ho Chi Minh Museum or One Pillar Pagoda might round out your trip.
Dong Da
You'll enjoy the bars and lake views in Dong Da. You might want to make time for a stop at Temple of Literature or Train Street.
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Popular places to visit
Hoan Kiem Lake
Wander around the banks of this peaceful lake and discover an historic temple, observe locals going about their daily life or enjoy a picnic lunch under the shade.
Hanoi Opera House
This historic building is the centrepiece of Hanoi’s French Quarter and host to shows by many of Vietnam’s premier singers, dancers and musicians.
West Lake
Commune with nature and explore the great outdoors at West Lake during your travels in Hanoi. Amble around this culturally rich area's lakeside or seek out the local tours.
O Quan Chuong
The attractive shape of the only city gate remaining in Hanoi harks back to a time when the city was under siege.
Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum
This massive tomb houses the embalmed body of Ho Chi Minh, a former Vietnamese president.
St. Joseph's Cathedral of Hanoi
At the heart of Hanoi stands a weathered neo-Gothic Roman Catholic church, a contrary sight in this predominantly Buddhist city.
Activities
From Hanoi: Tam Coc, Hoa Lu & Mua Caves Full-Day Trip
Hanoi Food Tour with Train Street Visit
Reviews of Hanoi
5/5 - Excellent
Very, Very, Very quiet compared to previous visits due to Covid-19. One benefit was the ease at which you could walk across streets :-)
3/5 - Okay
Hanoi is a place I would advise to go for a couple of days, there is a lot to see in a day or two and any longer would become quite repetitive.
5/5 - Excellent
We enjoyed a wonderful street food tour which was a great way to be introduced to Hanoi’s old town. Also check out the water puppet theatre it was amazing !
5/5 - Excellent
Absolutely loved Hanoi! It was a beautiful place with lovely people and delicious food.
5/5 - Excellent
Great place! Loved it.
5/5 - Excellent
Hanoi is a vibrant city, with much to see and do. I wish I had planned to stay longer to take home some unique experiences, so I will return to Hanoi before too long.
Other places like Hanoi
- Hoan Kiem Lake
- Hanoi Opera House
- Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum
- St. Joseph's Cathedral of Hanoi
- Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre
- Dong Xuan Market
- My Dinh National Stadium
- Hoa Lo Prison Museum
- Keangnam Landmark Tower 72
- Ta Hien Street
- Hang Gai Street
- Imperial Citadel of Thang Long
- Ngoc Son Temple
- Ho Chi Minh Museum