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First time in Hanoi! What to see and what not to miss? This 2025 guide to the top things to see in Hanoi covers 14 must-visit attractions, unique things to do, and sample itineraries so you can explore Vietnam’s capital like a pro.
You’ve probably heard the buzz about Hanoi, and for good reason. The city features a unique blend of frenetic modern energy and a timeless, ancient soul. Here, an old French building stands beside a trendy night bar, while the charm of the Old Quarter leads you to the thrill of Train Street. It’s a city that seems to live entirely on its sidewalks - loud, vibrant, yet uncontrollably captivating.
This guide isn’t just another list of tourist attractions. Think of it as your starter pack to Hanoi, covering the best things to see in Hanoi, unique experiences you won’t find in generic guides, and insider tips to explore with confidence.
What is Hanoi famous for? Hanoi is famous for its:
Rich history and cultural heritage – exemplified by the Imperial Citadel of Thang Long, Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, and many other ancient landmarks.
The Old Quarter – a maze of 36 lively streets filled with shops, cafés, and local life.
World-class street food – especially phở , bún chả and egg coffee, dishes you simply can’t leave without trying.
French colonial architecture – buildings like St. Joseph's Cathedral and the Hanoi Opera House that tell the story of its French colonial past.
Vibrant nightlife – night markets, rooftop bars and Beer Street that make the city feel alive every hour.
Hanoi is a city that is worth wandering, but for first-time visitors, it helps to have a clear starting point. To make it simple, we’ve gathered the top 14 things to see in Hanoi - a balance of iconic sights and local favorites.
If there’s one Hanoi must-visit for every first-time traveler, it’s the Old Quarter. This lively maze of 36 streets has been the beating heart of Hanoi for centuries. Each street traditionally specialized in one product.
Some of the best things to do in Hanoi Old Quarter: the colorful Note Coffee covered with sticky notes from travelers around the world; the Train Street where trains roar past just inches from homes and cafés; or Ta Hien “Beer Street”, the epicenter of Hanoi’s nightlife. Of all the places to see in Hanoi, the Old Quarter is where you’ll feel the city’s energy most intensely — chaotic, charming, and unforgettable.
Address: Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi
Opening Hours: Open daily, 24/7 (best visited morning or evening)
Entrance Fee: Free
Located right in the center of the Old Quarter, Hoan Kiem Lake is one of the most iconic Hanoi Vietnam attractions. On weekends, the area becomes a lively walking street, filled with portrait artists, live music, and dance performances. It’s one of the best places to go in Hanoi Vietnam to feel the city’s community spirit.
At the northern end of the lake, don’t miss the bright red Huc Bridge leading to Ngoc Son Temple, a serene spot and one of the most photogenic places to see in Hanoi.
Address: Dinh Tien Hoang Street, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi
Opening Hours: Hoan Kiem Lake is open 24 hours (best on weekends), and Ngoc Son Temple opens daily from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
Entrance Fee: There is no entrance fee for Hoan Kiem Lake itself, but tickets for Ngoc Son Temple are 30,000 VND (~$1.50).
Built in 1070, the Temple of Literature was Vietnam’s first university and remains one of the most iconic things to see in Hanoi. One of the highlights is the collection of stone stelae, honoring more than 1,000 scholars who earned doctorates in imperial exams. The temple is not just a landmark, but also a living archive of Vietnam’s intellectual history. Even today, students visit here to pray for good luck in their studies, continuing the thousand-year tradition of learning and respect for knowledge.
Address: 58 Quoc Tu Giam, Dong Da District, Hanoi
Opening Hours: Daily, 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Entrance Fee: 70,000 VND (~$2.80)
The Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum Complex is one of the most meaningful places to see in Hanoi, both historically and culturally. Built in 1975, this granite mausoleum houses the preserved body of President Ho Chi Minh — affectionately known as “Uncle Ho”, the Vietnamese hero. The grounds also feature the yellow Presidential Palace, Ho Chi Minh’s humble Stilt House, and the One Pillar Pagoda, making the complex an essential stop for first-time visitors.
Address: 2 Hung Vuong, Ba Dinh District, Hanoi
Opening Hours: Tue – Thu & Sat – Sun, 7:30 AM – 10:30 AM (for Mausoleum; seasonal changes possible, so check ahead); surrounding grounds open daily
Entrance Fee: Free (mausoleum and grounds); small fees for nearby museums
Built by the French in 1896, Hoa Lo Prison was first used to suppress Vietnamese revolutionaries fighting for independence, and later to detain foreign prisoners during the Vietnam - America War. A preserved section now serves as a museum, where visitors can explore original cells, view artifacts, and see the infamous French guillotine. Besides the day tour, you may also consider the highly acclaimed "Sacred Night" tour, which uses actors and sound effects to bring history to life. These are popular and should be booked in advance.
Address: 1 Hoa Lo Street, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi
Opening Hours: Daily, 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Entrance Fee: 50,000 VND (~$2)
Built in 1886, St. Joseph’s Cathedral is one of the oldest churches in Hanoi and a striking example of neo-Gothic architecture. This spot is among the most atmospheric things to see in Hanoi, especially in the evening when the square outside fills with families, cafés, and street food vendors. You can either step inside to admire the stained-glass windows and serene interior, or enjoy a coffee at one of the nearby cafés overlooking the church.
Address: 40 Nha Chung Street, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi
Opening Hours: Daily, 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM & 2:00 PM – 6:00 PM
Entrance Fee: Free
The Thang Long Imperial Citadel is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most important places to see in Hanoi. Once the political center of Vietnam for over a thousand years, it preserves layers of history from different dynasties through ancient gates, archaeological remains, and artifacts unearthed on-site.
An insider tip: Inside the site, there’s traditional Vietnamese clothing for you to rent and take photos with it - a fun and memorable way to connect with its heritage.
Address: 19C Hoang Dieu Street, Ba Dinh District, Hanoi
Opening Hours: Tue – Sun, 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM (closed Mondays)
Entrance Fee: 100,000 VND (~$4)
Dating back to the 6th century, Tran Quoc Pagoda is the oldest Buddhist temple in Hanoi. Located on a small island in West Lake, it’s a serene escape from the city’s hustle and bustle. This is known for its elegant 11-tiered tower and peaceful gardens, making it one of the best places to go in Hanoi Vietnam for spiritual reflection and photography, especially at sunset.
Address: Thanh Nien Street, Tay Ho District, Hanoi
Opening Hours: Daily, 7:30 AM – 6:00 PM
Entrance Fee: Free
Completed in 1911, the Hanoi Opera House is one of the most stunning examples of French colonial architecture in Southeast Asia. Its façade features elegant arches, columns, and domes inspired by Paris’s Palais Garnier. While it is best experienced during an opera, ballet, or symphony, there’s plenty to enjoy even without a performance: guided tours showcase the lavish interiors, chandeliers, and grand staircase. It’s one of the most essential things to see in Hanoi for culture and architecture lovers.
Address: 1 Trang Tien Street, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi
Opening Hours: Vary depending on performances; usually evenings
Entrance Fee: Ticket prices vary by event
Built in 1889, Dong Xuan Market is Hanoi’s largest indoor market and a true local experience. It’s busy, noisy, and full of energy — the perfect place to see daily life unfold. You’ll find everything from clothing and household goods to souvenirs and street food. Part of the fun is bargaining with vendors like a local for the best deals.
Address: Dong Xuan Street, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi
Opening Hours: Daily, 6:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Entrance Fee: Free
Designed by the French in the early 1900s, Long Bien Bridge is one of Hanoi’s most enduring landmarks. Stretching across the Red River, it was heavily bombed during wartime but still stands as a powerful symbol of resilience and survival. Walking across the bridge offers sweeping views of the river and countryside on one side, and the bustling city on the other. It’s also a favorite spot for local photographers and morning walkers, making it one of the most scenic places to see in Hanoi.
Address: Ngoc Thuy Ward, Long Bien District, Hanoi
Opening Hours: Open daily, 24/7
Entrance Fee: Free
West Lake is Hanoi’s largest lake and offers a calm contrast to the busy Old Quarter. Its 17-kilometer shoreline is dotted with pagodas, gardens, and chic lakeside cafés, making it ideal for cycling, walking, or simply watching the sunset over the water. It’s also home to some of the city’s most beautiful temples, including Tran Quoc Pagoda.
Address: Tay Ho District, Hanoi
Opening Hours: Open daily, 24/7
Entrance Fee: Free
The Vietnam Museum of Ethnology highlights the traditions of the country’s 54 ethnic groups through costumes, artifacts, and full-scale replicas of traditional houses. It’s one of the most engaging museums in Hanoi, especially for families, as the open-air exhibits and wide green spaces make it a great place for kids to explore while enjoying fresh air.
Address: Nguyen Van Huyen Street, Cau Giay District, Hanoi
Opening Hours: Tue – Sun, 8:30 AM – 5:30 PM (closed Mondays)
Entrance Fee: 40,000 VND (~$1.60)
Perched on the 65th floor of the Lotte Center, the Lotte Observation Deck offers a 360-degree panorama of Hanoi. Glass skywalks and viewing platforms create a thrilling perspective of the city’s skyline, from the Old Quarter to West Lake. For the best views, come at sunset or stay into the evening when the city lights sparkle below.
Address: 54 Lieu Giai Street, Ba Dinh District, Hanoi
Opening Hours: Daily, 9:00 AM – 11:00 PM
Entrance Fee: 230,000 VND (~$9.50)
Sightseeing gives you the highlights, but it’s the unique experiences that make Hanoi truly unforgettable. The following are unique things to do in Hanoi that go beyond the usual tourist trail and let you feel the city like a local. For first-time travelers, these sites are the perfect complement to the classic things to see in Hanoi.
Hanoi’s street food is legendary, and the best way to experience it is with a local guide who knows the hidden gems. From smoky bún chả to crispy bánh mì and steaming bowls of phở, these flavors are the heartbeat of the city.
The best way to do this is on a guided food tour. At Asia Mystika, our local guides will lead you to family-run stalls and secret spots that most tourists miss, making it a delicious highlight of your Hanoi journey. Book a tour with us for a personalized Hanoi adventure, where every stop is handpicked to showcase the city’s most authentic flavors. Start your custom tour with Asia Mystika today.
One of the most romantic Hanoi must-visit for couples is West Lake, especially at sunset when the sky turns pink over the water. A stroll along Thanh Nien Road or a quiet café by the shore makes for the perfect evening together.
Other Romantic Ideas:
Take a Vietnamese cooking class and have dinner together
Sip cocktails at The Summit Bar (Pan Pacific Hotel) with panoramic sunset views
Try one of local favorites - riding a swan boat at Truc Bach Lake, just next to West Lake.
The Thang Long Water Puppet Theater is a colorful introduction to Vietnamese culture that both kids and adults will love. Puppets dance on water, accompanied by live folk music — a magical experience unique to northern Vietnam.
Other Family-Friendly Activities:
Explore Vietnam Museum of Ethnology, with open-air exhibits and spacious grounds.
Spend a morning at Thu Le Park & Zoo (Cau Giay District).
Splash around at West Lake Water Park on hot days.
Invented in Hanoi in the 1940s, egg coffee (cà phê trứng) is creamy, sweet, and unforgettable. Whether at a historic café or a modern rooftop, this is a must-try drink for every visitor.
Here are some of the best places to taste this unique blend of coffee, egg, and sweet cream.
Giảng Café - the birthplace of egg coffee, serving the original creamy recipe since 1946.
Address: 39 Nguyen Huu Huan, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi
Direction: https://share.google/cXNxxcbSLTgcNGcHL
Price: 30,000 – 40,000 VND ($1.14 - $1.50)
Đinh Café is a cozy, retro-style café hidden above a bookstore, offering rooftop views of Hoan Kiem Lake.
Address: 13 Dinh Tien Hoang, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi
Direction: https://share.google/9jMYGg2NSJRM4FIjg
Price: 15,000 – 25,000 VND ($0.57 - $0.95)
Cafe Pho Co is a hidden gem tucked behind a silk shop, with a terrace overlooking Hoan Kiem Lake.
Address: 11 Hang Gai, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi
Direction: https://share.google/duUGNijIkj5U7oUpu
Price: 30,000 – 40,000 VND ($1.14 - $1.50)
Few experiences are as surreal as watching a train pass within inches of houses and cafés along Hanoi’s Train Street. It’s a thrill — but also requires caution. The best way to enjoy it is to grab a coffee at one of the small cafés that line the tracks and wait for the train to roll through — the rumble, the horn, and the sight of it squeezing past is unforgettable.
Tips for Visiting:
Trains often run in the afternoon (check train schedule before visiting, as they change).
Stay at a café along the tracks for a safe viewpoint.
Always follow safety instructions — never stand on the tracks.
Hanoi’s nightlife is as lively as its days, offering plenty of ways to soak up the city’s energy.
Old Quarter Night Market – Weekend evenings with souvenirs, snacks, and live music.
Ta Hien “Beer Street” – Tiny stools, cheap beer, and endless fun with locals and travelers.
Rooftop Bars – Chic spots with glowing skyline views. Try out these famous spots:
Skyline Hanoi – 38 Gia Ngu, Hoan Kiem District.
Top of Hanoi – 54 Lieu Giai, Ba Dinh District.
The Summit Bar (Pan Pacific Hanoi, 1 Thanh Nien, Tay Ho District)
One of the most common questions first-time travelers ask is: How many days in Hanoi is enough? The truth is, even a single day can give you a taste of the city, but 2 - 3 days let you balance history, culture, food, and local life. Here’s how to plan your trip.
If you only have one day, focus on the essentials:
Morning: Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum & Temple of Literature
Afternoon: Hanoi Old Quarter & Train Street
Evening: Street food tour & Hoan Kiem Lake by night
Are 2 days in Hanoi enough? Yes — two full days are enough to cover the highlights at a relaxed pace. Here’s how you do it.
Day 1: (same as above)
Morning: Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum & Temple of Literature
Afternoon: Hanoi Old Quarter & Train Street
Evening: Street food tour & Hoan Kiem Lake by night
Day 2:
Morning: Hoa Lo Prison
Afternoon: Tran Quoc Pagoda & Sunset by West Lake
Evening: Watch a Water Puppet Show
Are 3 days in Hanoi enough? 3 days is the sweet spot! You’ll see the highlights, enjoy local food, and even have time to explore Vietnam traditional villages in Hanoi countryside.
Day 1: (same as above)
Morning: Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum & Temple of Literature
Afternoon: Hanoi Old Quarter & Train Street
Evening: Street food tour & Hoan Kiem Lake by night
Day 2: (same as above)
Morning: Hoa Lo Prison
Afternoon: Tran Quoc Pagoda & Sunset by West Lake
Evening: Watch a Water Puppet Show
Day 3: Take a countryside day trip. Great options include Perfume Pagoda, Bat Trang Pottery Village, Chuong Conical Hat Village, Incense Village, or Van Phuc Silk Village. Each offers a glimpse into traditional Vietnamese life just outside the capital.
If you have more time, consider extending your trip to Sapa, a mountain town in northern Vietnam. Famous for its terraced rice fields and cool climate, it’s a hub for trekking and meeting ethnic minority communities. You can get there by overnight train (around 8 hours) or by limousine bus (around 6 hours). Many travelers pair Sapa with Hanoi for a complete northern Vietnam experience.
If you’d like a tailor-made plan without the stress of organizing every detail, Asia Mystika can design a custom itinerary in the North and even across Vietnam, that perfectly matches your time, pace, and interests. With local guides and private transport, you’ll experience the highlights comfortably while still uncovering hidden gems along the way.
A smooth trip to Hanoi isn’t just about where you go, it’s also about how you prepare. From the best times to visit to how to get around, these practical tips will help first-time travelers explore the city with ease.
Best time to visit Hanoi: March – April (spring) and September – November (autumn), when the weather is mild and pleasant.
Getting around: Walk the Old Quarter, use Grab (the local ride-hailing app), or enjoy the comfort of a private car when you travel with Asia Mystika.
What to pack: Hanoi is a walking city, so bring comfortable shoes. Light clothes work for most of the year, and add a light jacket in winter. Don’t forget a universal power adapter for charging your devices.
Currency & money: The local currency is the Vietnamese dong (VND). ATMs are widely available, credit cards are accepted in most hotels and restaurants. Cash is still king in markets and small eateries. Tipping isn’t mandatory but rounding up the bill or leaving small change is appreciated.
Dress appropriately: Dress modestly in clothes that cover your shoulders and knees when visiting temples or Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum. Remove shoes before entering homes and certain pagodas.
Crossing the street: Walk slowly and steadily, motorbikes will flow around you. If you feel unsafe, simply stop - but never step backwards, as it confuses drivers.
Hanoi is famous for its rich history, French colonial architecture, bustling Old Quarter, world-class street food like phở and bún chả, and vibrant street life that unfolds on every corner.
Don’t miss Hoan Kiem Lake, the Old Quarter, Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum Complex, the Temple of Literature, and unique experiences like Train Street or a water puppet show. These are the core highlights for first-time visitors.
West Lake is often overlooked by first-time visitors, yet a peaceful and charming spot. It’s the largest lake in Hanoi, perfect for cycling, walking, or simply enjoying the sunset. You can visit Tran Quoc Pagoda on its small island, stop by chic lakeside cafés, or rent a swan boat for a lighthearted ride on nearby Truc Bach Lake.
With limited time, you can skip visiting the inside of Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum. Seeing the complex from outside is interesting, but the long security line to the inside may not be worth the time for everyone. Many first timers are satisfied walking around the square and Presidential Palace area instead of queuing.
2 full days is enough to see the highlights. However, 3 days is ideal for a first visit, giving you time to explore comfortably, enjoy the food, and soak in the city’s culture.
The best things to do in the Hanoi Old Quarter are strolling its 36 lively streets, trying street food stalls, visiting The Note Coffee, enjoying the thrilling sight of Train Street, and experiencing nightlife on Ta Hien Street.
The Lotte Observation Deck offers stunning skyline views, while a Vietnamese cooking class or an evening at the Hanoi Opera House are perfect cultural experiences for adults.
While this guide gives you a checklist of the top things to see in Hanoi, the greatest treasure is the city itself. The real magic happens in the moments between the sights — chatting with a street vendor, stumbling upon a hidden alley, or taking that first bite of a life-changing bánh mì.
Use this list as your starting point, but don’t be afraid to put the map away and just wander. That’s when Hanoi reveals its true spirit.
Of course, we understand that the city can feel overwhelming on a first visit. That’s where having a local by your side makes all the difference. At Asia Mystika, our private guides and drivers are here to share authentic stories, smooth your way through the chaos, and lead you to hidden gems most travelers never find.
Ready to begin? Design your custom Hanoi tour with Asia Mystika and let us help you create an experience that’s personal, authentic, and unforgettable.
