Top 10 Things To Do In Hanoi: Must-See Attractions & Local Tips

Top 10 Things to Do in Hanoi: A Complete Guide

What makes Hanoi so unforgettable? Is it the steaming street food? The quiet courtyards? The history echoing through its temples? Whatever draws you in, this list of top things to do in Hanoi will help you make the most of your visit, whether you're here for 24 hours or an entire week.

Take a Cyclo Ride Through the Old Quarter

For a slow-paced, nostalgic introduction to Hanoi, hop on a cyclo, which is a traditional three-wheeled bicycle taxi that’s become symbolic of the city’s charm. Riding a cyclo lets you absorb the vibrant sights, sounds, and scents of Hanoi’s Old Quarter and French Quarter without having to navigate the traffic yourself.

As your driver pedals you through narrow streets and past colonial buildings, you'll get a front-row view of local life: flower sellers balancing baskets on bicycles, shopkeepers fanning their storefronts, and endless rows of hanging lanterns and signage. It’s one of the most relaxing ways to experience the city, especially for first-time visitors.

Taste the Best of Hanoi’s Local Cuisine

One of the most rewarding things to do in Hanoi is dive into its incredible street food scene. Vietnamese cuisine in the capital is light, fresh, and herbaceous. A guided street food tour takes you deep into alleyways and roadside eateries that most tourists miss.

Must-try dishes:

• Phở bò (Beef noodle soup)
• Bún chả (Grilled pork with noodles and herbs)
• Nem rán (Fried spring rolls)
• Bánh mì (Vietnamese bread)
• Bánh cuốn (Steamed rice rolls stuffed with minced pork and mushrooms)
• Cháo sườn (A warm, silky rice porridge with tender pork ribs, often topped with quẩy)
• Chả cá Lã Vọng (Turmeric-marinated fish with dill)
• Xôi xéo (Sticky rice topped with mung bean paste, fried shallots, and sometimes pork floss)
• Cà phê trứng (Egg coffee)

Watch a Water Puppet Show

This traditional Vietnamese performance art dates back to the 11th century and is a must-see in Hanoi. Water puppetry tells folk tales and legends using lacquered wooden puppets dancing on a pool of water, accompanied by live traditional music and singing.

The best place to experience this is the Thăng Long Water Puppet Theatre, located just steps from Hồ Hoàn Kiếm Lake. Each performance lasts around 45 minutes, and while mostly in Vietnamese, the stories are visually engaging and easy to follow, even without translation.

Note: Ticket price from 100,000–200,000 VND (~USD 4–USD 8). Book tickets early, especially on weekends and holidays.

Experience Hanoi Train Street

One of the most iconic and thrilling things to do in Hanoi, Train Street is where a working train rumbles through a narrow alley lined with homes and cafés. As the train approaches, locals calmly pull tables off the tracks and tourists press back against the walls, just inches away from the action.

While parts of the street are now restricted due to safety concerns, you can still experience it legally by entering through licensed cafés like Hanoi 1990s or The Hideout, which offer safe views and a chance to sip Vietnamese coffee as the train passes. Trains usually come by around 3:20 PM and 7:20 PM, but check with café staff to be sure.

Visit the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum Complex

A visit to the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum offers a powerful glimpse into Vietnam’s modern history. Located in Ba Dinh Square, this solemn marble structure holds the embalmed body of President Ho Chi Minh, revered as the founding father of the nation. Visitors quietly file through the mausoleum, flanked by solemn guards, for a brief but meaningful moment.

Step Inside Hoa Lo Prison

A visit to Hỏa Lò Prison offers a sobering look into Vietnam’s turbulent history. Originally built by the French to detain Vietnamese revolutionaries, it later held American POWs during the Vietnam War, including U.S. Senator John McCain.

The museum today preserves the stark cells, displays historical artifacts, and tells powerful stories of resistance, hardship, and survival. While heavy, the visit is deeply informative and gives vital context to the struggles that shaped modern Vietnam.

Unwind at Ta Hien Street

For a lively night out, head to Ta Hien Street, Hanoi’s famous beer corner. Sit on low plastic stools, order a cold glass of bia hơi (fresh local beer), and snack on crispy nem chua rán (fried fermented pork rolls) that locals love.

The street is packed with energy, music, and chatter every night. It’s the perfect spot to unwind, meet people, and soak up Hanoi’s youthful vibe in the Old Quarter.

Day Trip to Traditional Villages

At Bat Trang Ceramic Village, located about 30 minutes east of the city, you can watch artisans shape, paint, and fire pottery by hand. Try your skills at the wheel or shop for beautiful ceramics ranging from tableware to decorative vases.

Meanwhile, Van Phuc Silk Village, just 10 km west of Hanoi, is known for its delicate, handwoven silk. Stroll through peaceful alleys lined with looms, fabric shops, and silk-dyeing workshops.

Both villages offer hands-on experiences and a closer look at Vietnamese heritage beyond the usual tourist spots.

Shop Like a Local at Dong Xuan Market

Dong Xuan Market is Hanoi’s largest and busiest indoor market. This four-story Soviet-style building sells everything from souvenirs, clothes, and electronics to fresh produce and local snacks.

Walk through the maze of stalls to experience the rhythm of everyday life. You’ll find wholesale vendors shouting prices, locals bargaining for household goods, and rows of dried fruits, nuts, and spices perfect for gifts. It's chaotic, colorful, and undeniably authentic.

Sip Cocktails at a Rooftop Bar with City Views

End your day in style by heading to one of Hanoi’s rooftop bars, where you can sip a signature cocktail while watching the city lights flicker below. These spots offer a different side of Hanoi, modern, stylish, and refreshingly breezy.

Whether you're unwinding after a long day of sightseeing or celebrating your final night in town, a rooftop drink adds a memorable sparkle to your Hanoi experience.

>>> Not sure how long to stay in the capital? Before diving into this list, check out our full guide on "How Many Days In Hanoi Is Enough?" to help you plan the perfect itinerary based on your travel style and schedule.

When Is the Best Time to Visit Hanoi?

The best time to visit Hanoi is during autumn, from September to November. This season is famously known as Hanoi’s autumn, beloved by locals, poets, and photographers alike.

The weather is cool and pleasant, with clear skies, gentle breezes, and golden leaves lining the streets. The air carries the sweet fragrance of hoa sữa (milk flowers), and the whole city feels calm, romantic, and nostalgic. It’s the perfect time for strolling around Hoan Kiem Lake, enjoying a cup of egg coffee, or exploring the Old Quarter without the heavy heat of summer or the chill of winter.

How to Get Around Hanoi

Getting around Hanoi is part of the adventure, and thankfully, the city offers plenty of options to suit every traveler’s style and budget.

• On Foot: Many of Hanoi’s top attractions, especially around the Old Quarter and Hoan Kiem Lake, are easily walkable. Sidewalks can be narrow or busy, but walking is the best way to soak in local life.
• By Cyclo: For a leisurely and nostalgic ride, hop on a cyclo (three-wheeled bicycle taxi). Great for sightseeing around the Old Quarter and French Quarter, though best for short distances.
• Taxi: Reliable and affordable. Use apps like Grab or Be for cars or motorbikes to help avoid price misunderstandings.
• Public Bus: Hanoi has an extensive bus network with cheap fares, but it can be confusing for first-timers due to limited English signage.
• Motorbike Rental: Adventurous travelers can rent motorbikes (~150,000–200,000 VND/day), but Hanoi’s traffic is chaotic. Only recommended if you're an experienced rider.
• Hanoi Hop-On Hop-Off double-decker bus: For first-time visitors, this bus is a convenient and comfortable way to see the city’s main attractions without the hassle of navigating traffic. It follows a circular route that covers over a dozen landmarks, including the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, Temple of Literature, Hanoi Opera House, and Hoan Kiem Lake.

Each method gives a different view of the city, mix and match depending on your comfort level, budget, and how deep you want to explore.

FAQs

Q: Is 2 days enough in Hanoi?

A: Two days are enough to explore major highlights like the Old Quarter, Hoan Kiem Lake, Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, and enjoy some local food. However, if you want to dig deeper, 3–4 days will provide a more comprehensive experience. Read more here.

Q: Is Hanoi safe for tourists?

A: Yes, Hanoi is generally safe for travelers. Petty theft is rare but possible in crowded areas, so keep an eye on your belongings. Traffic can be chaotic, so be careful when crossing streets.

Q: How much should I budget per day in Hanoi?

A: Budget travelers can get by on $25–$40/day, while mid-range visitors might spend $60–$100/day, including food, transport, and entrance fees. Street food is affordable, and even the nicest restaurants are reasonably priced.

From sipping egg coffee in the Old Quarter to watching water puppet shows and exploring ancient temples, the best things to do in Hanoi offer a perfect blend of history, culture, and local flavor. Whether you're visiting for two days or five, Hanoi delivers a rich and authentic experience, especially in autumn, when the city reveals its most poetic charm.

>>> Contact Asia Mystic Travel to customize your Hanoi itinerary today!