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Planning your first trip to Vietnam’s capital and not sure where to start? Hanoi is a city of contrasts: ancient temples and French boulevards, steaming bowls of pho and hidden rooftop cafés, peaceful lakes and buzzing markets. With so many things to do in Hanoi, it can feel overwhelming to choose what’s truly worth your time.
This 2026 guide breaks everything down in a clear, friendly way — from can’t-miss spots like Train Street and the Old Quarter to day trips like Ninh Binh and Ha Long Bay. Whether you’re here for 24 hours or 3 full days, you’ll find the perfect mix of food, culture, and authentic local experiences to make your Hanoi trip unforgettable.
Hanoi doesn’t ease you in—it greets you with a full sensory wave. The smell of grilled pork drifting from a street stall, the hum of motorbikes weaving through narrow streets, the sight of moss-covered temples sitting beside French-colonial balconies. It’s fascinating, a little chaotic, and incredibly inviting. But with so much happening at once, the real question is: Where do you even begin?
Instead of flipping through an old-school Hanoi guide book or trying to piece together random tips online, consider this your 2026-ready, traveler-friendly cheat sheet. I’ve organized everything you actually need to know, without the fluff.
In this guide, you’ll find the top 10 things to do in Hanoi, plus a handful of hidden corners only locals bother to mention. I’ll also walk you through the best spots to shop, the must-try foods, and step-by-step itineraries for 2, 3, and even 4 days in the capital. Whether you love culture, coffee, history, or street food, you’ll have a clear game plan for exploring one of Asia’s most captivating cities.
Ready? Let’s unlock Hanoi together.
If you’re wondering what Hanoi is best known for, these ten experiences are the heart of the city—no first-time visit is complete without them.
Start with Hanoi’s most iconic neighborhood: the Old Quarter. This is the famous maze of 36 ancient streets, each once dedicated to a specific craft. As you wander, you’ll stumble upon everything from silver shops on Hang Bac to lantern stalls on Hang Ma. Don’t miss the dramatic sight of St. Joseph’s Cathedral, where Gothic architecture rises unexpectedly above a swirl of motorbikes and coffee shops. It’s chaotic, loud, and absolutely unforgettable.
Just a few steps from the Old Quarter sits Hoan Kiem Lake, the city’s most peaceful pocket. Cross the bright-red bridge to Ngoc Son Temple and take in the views of the Turtle Tower in the distance. If you can, visit on a weekend, when the surrounding streets turn pedestrian-only and the entire area becomes a lively open-air festival.
This is one of Hanoi’s most meaningful historical sites. Inside the grand mausoleum lies the preserved body of Ho Chi Minh, known affectionately as “Uncle Ho.” While you’re there, explore the One Pillar Pagoda and Ho Chi Minh’s stilt house. Remember: dress respectfully, and note that the mausoleum is only open in the mornings.
Built in 1070, this is Vietnam’s first university and remains one of the most beautiful cultural landmarks in the country. With lotus ponds, ancient courtyards, and traditional architecture, it’s a calm break from the city’s noise and a must-visit for any history or culture lover.
This museum offers a sobering but important look into the French colonial era and the Vietnam War. The exhibits are powerful, the storytelling is detailed, and it’s one of the best ways to understand Vietnam’s modern history.
This spot has become a social media legend—but access changes frequently. As of 2025, only specific café-lined sections are legally open to tourists, where you can safely sit with a drink as the train rolls past just inches away. Always follow staff guidance and avoid unofficial entrances.
Unique to Northern Vietnam, water puppetry is a centuries-old art that tells folk stories through intricate wooden puppets dancing over water. It’s charming, family-friendly, and one of the most classic cultural things to do in Hanoi.
You can’t leave Hanoi without trying its most unusual specialty: rich, creamy egg coffee. Try it where it was invented—Café Giang—or settle into a cafe with a balcony view like Note Coffee for great people-watching.
A UNESCO World Heritage site, this former political center features ancient gates, archaeological relics, and wartime bunkers. History buffs can easily spend hours here exploring the layers of Vietnam’s past.
End your list with a Hanoi food essential: grilled pork served with vermicelli noodles and fresh herbs. If you want the “celebrity” version, head to Bún Chả Hương Liên, made famous by President Obama and Anthony Bourdain.
Hanoi isn’t just temples, lakes, and pho. If you’re looking for something a little different — something most tourists never experience — the city has plenty of hidden corners and quirky stories waiting to be uncovered. Here are some of the most unique things to do in Hanoi, including several that are completely free.
Tucked deep inside a quiet residential neighborhood in Ba Dinh District lies one of the most surreal sights in the city: the rusted remains of a U.S. B-52 bomber, still half-submerged in a small lake. Locals go about their daily routines around it — kids cycling, grandmothers chatting — making the contrast even more striking. It’s a reminder of the city’s resilience, and visiting it feels like stumbling onto a piece of history that was never meant to be a tourist attraction.
If you’re searching for free things to do in Hanoi that still feel unforgettable, set your alarm early and head to Long Bien Bridge. Built by the French more than a century ago, its iron ribs stretch across the Red River like a massive steel spine. At sunrise, the sky glows pink and orange, fishermen cast their nets, and the city slowly comes to life beneath you. It’s peaceful, atmospheric, and one of the best ways to see Hanoi from a different perspective.
Running along the highway near the Old Quarter, the Ceramic Road is a Guinness World Record-holding mosaic mural over 4 km long. The artwork blends folk stories, modern themes, and bright colors, turning an otherwise ordinary stretch of road into one giant piece of public art. It’s fun to explore on foot or by motorbike — and yes, totally free.
If you’re up for an adventure (or jet lag has you wide awake), head to the Quang Ba Flower Market before dawn. This is where florists from all over Hanoi buy their blooms for the day. The scene is chaotic and beautiful: neon lights, piles of roses and lilies, vendors shouting prices, and motorbikes weaving between carts overflowing with flowers. By sunrise, most of the action is already over — which makes the experience feel even more special.
Hanoi transforms once the sun goes down. The daytime buzz softens, the air cools, and the city slips into a completely different personality — one that’s playful, artistic, a little mysterious, and full of unexpected surprises. If you’re wondering about the best things to do in Hanoi at night, here are the top experiences that show you the city’s after-hours magic.
Hanoi has quietly become one of Asia’s most creative cities when it comes to night tourism. Two tours, in particular, are worth booking:
This isn’t a typical museum visit. With dramatic lighting, atmospheric storytelling, and curated historical scenes, the experience feels almost theatrical. Many visitors say it’s haunting yet deeply moving — a chance to understand Vietnam’s difficult past in a way you won’t forget.
If you prefer something more uplifting, this evening tour transforms Vietnam’s first university into a glowing light show. The courtyards, stelae, and ancient pavilions are beautifully illuminated, giving the whole place a serene, dreamlike atmosphere.
Ta Hien is loud, chaotic, and wonderfully alive. Here, tiny stools spill into the street, bottles clink everywhere, and groups of travelers and locals mingle over Bia Hoi, Hanoi’s famously fresh and ultra-light draft beer. It's the ultimate place for people-watching and soaking up the city’s youthful energy. Go at around 8–9 PM to catch the street at its liveliest.
If your visit includes a weekend, don’t miss the night market that runs from Hoan Kiem Lake deep into the Old Quarter. It’s crowded — in the best way possible. You’ll find street snacks, clothes, handmade crafts, accessories, and performers playing music along the way. Even if you don’t buy anything, the atmosphere alone is worth the walk.
For something smoother and more sophisticated, slip into Binh Minh Jazz Club, tucked near the Opera House. It’s dimly lit, intimate, and often features live performances by some of Vietnam’s top jazz musicians. Order a drink, sink into your seat, and let the music carry you away — it’s a perfect contrast to the noise of the Old Quarter.
If shopping is part of your travel joy, Hanoi won’t disappoint. The city is full of vibrant markets, boutique craft stores, and entire streets dedicated to one type of product — a shopping style unique to Vietnam. Whether you’re after handmade goods, trendy local brands, or classic souvenirs, here’s how to shop like a true Hanoian.
Just a few steps from Hoan Kiem Lake, Hang Gai Street is lined with silk boutiques, tailor shops, and family-owned stores that have worked with fabric for generations. If you’re dreaming of a custom dress, ao dai, or suit, this is the place. Most shops can tailor and finish items within 24–48 hours — perfect for travelers who want something beautifully made and uniquely Vietnamese.
Hang Bac is one of the most atmospheric streets in the Old Quarter and has been the heart of Hanoi’s silver trade for centuries. Today, it’s still packed with silversmiths selling necklaces, rings, bracelets, and decorative trinkets. Prices are generally reasonable, and many stores offer simple custom work if you want something engraved or tailored.
If you want to see where locals really shop, head to Dong Xuan Market. This giant indoor market isn’t polished or touristy — it’s busy, loud, and overflowing with fabrics, clothing, household goods, snacks, and wholesale items. It’s not the best spot for pretty souvenirs, but it’s incredible for people-watching and getting a sense of everyday Hanoi commerce. If you’re into sewing, the fabric stalls are a treasure hunt.
Skip the generic “I Love Hanoi” magnets and head to TiredCity, one of Hanoi’s coolest local brands. They collaborate with Vietnamese illustrators to create unique T-shirts, posters, notebooks, and art prints — perfect gifts that actually feel modern and creative. You’ll see several locations across the Old Quarter, and all of them offer high-quality products that support young designers.
If you want the best mix of everything — silk, art, silver, and souvenirs — dedicate an afternoon to walking from Hang Gai → Hang Bac → Dong Xuan. It’s one of the most fun things to do in Hanoi Old Quarter and an easy way to see the city’s creative side.
Once you’ve explored the streets, cafés, and temples of Hanoi, it’s time to look beyond the city limits. Some of Northern Vietnam’s most breathtaking landscapes are just a short journey away — and they’re absolutely worth adding to your itinerary.
Let’s clear this up first: Ha Long Bay is not in Hanoi. It sits about 2.5 hours away via the new expressway, but it’s easily one of the most popular things to do when visiting Hanoi. If you're only going for the day, avoid the quick 4-hour cruise — it feels rushed and gives you barely a taste of the bay. Instead, book a 6-hour day cruise. This option gives you enough time to kayak, visit a cave, and actually enjoy sailing among those famous limestone towers without feeling like you're sprinting the whole time.
If soaring cliffs, emerald rice fields, and peaceful rivers are your style, Ninh Binh might even outshine Ha Long Bay for you. This UNESCO-listed gem is only 1.5–2 hours from Hanoi and perfect for a full-day adventure. Take a boat trip through the cave systems of Trang An or Tam Coc, then climb the 500 steps of Mua Cave for one of the most dramatic viewpoints in Vietnam. It’s an unforgettable experience — and one of the best things to do in Hanoi if you want nature and culture in one trip.
If you don’t want to spend hours on the road, Bat Trang Pottery Village is just 30 minutes from the city. This 700-year-old artisan community is known for its workshops where you can try your hand at the pottery wheel, browse handmade ceramics, or wander narrow, brick-lined lanes filled with kilns and traditional houses. It’s an easy half-day escape and a great choice for families or anyone who enjoys hands-on experiences.
Not sure how many days you need in the capital? Don’t worry — most travelers wonder the same thing. Whether you’ve only got a weekend or a few extra days to explore, here’s how to make the most of your time and hit all the essential things to do in Hanoi.
Perfect for travelers on a tight schedule who still want to feel Hanoi’s rhythm.
Day 1: Start in the Old Quarter’s maze-like streets, wander around Hoan Kiem Lake, and sip a traditional egg coffee at one of the iconic cafés. In the evening, dive into the energy of the Weekend Night Market or grab a seat on Ta Hien Street for some cold local beer and prime people-watching.
Day 2: Dedicate the morning to the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum Complex, then continue to the Temple of Literature for a calm escape into Vietnam’s academic past. Wrap up your visit at Hanoi Train Street — check the latest updates to know which cafés are legally open — and enjoy that thrilling moment when the train passes just inches away.
A great sweet spot if you want both city life and nature.
Day 1 & 2: Follow the 2-day plan above to cover Hanoi’s classics.
Day 3: Choose a day trip based on your style:
Both make for unforgettable day-long adventures.
Four days is more than enough for Hanoi — and it lets you explore at a relaxed, enjoyable pace.
Day 3: Spend an entire day in Ha Long Bay. Take the 6-hour cruise so you actually have time to enjoy the caves, kayaking, and views without rushing.
Day 4: Use your final morning to visit Bat Trang Pottery Village, where you can wander old brick alleys and try molding your own clay piece. For your last evening, book a guided food tour — it’s the easiest way to taste 6–8 authentic dishes you might not find on your own.
Absolutely. Three days is that ideal middle ground where you can explore all the big highlights — the Old Quarter, the lakes, the historical sites — and still squeeze in one unforgettable day trip. Most travelers find that 3 days gives them a real feel for the city without rushing from place to place.
Yes, and it’s even better. With four full days, you get breathing room. You can enjoy the major attractions at a comfortable pace, add in quirky local spots like the B-52 Crash Lake, and even fit both Ninh Binh and Ha Long Bay into your schedule if you plan wisely.
Hanoi is famous for its Old Quarter — a fascinating maze of 36 craft streets — along with its French-inspired terraces, steaming bowls of phở, smoky bun cha grills, bold egg coffee, and of course, the endless flow of motorbikes. It’s a city where ancient traditions and modern life share the same narrow streets.
Thankfully, some of the best things to do in Hanoi don’t cost a đồng. You can stroll around Hoan Kiem Lake at sunrise, walk across the historic Long Bien Bridge for incredible river views, wander the outdoor areas of Ngoc Son Temple, or spend hours exploring local markets. The city itself is an open-air museum.
Yes — very. Hanoi is one of the safest capitals in Asia. Nightlife districts stay lively late into the evening, and families often go out for walks after dinner. The biggest “danger” you’ll face is simply navigating the traffic when crossing busy streets, so move slowly and confidently.
Hanoi isn’t the kind of place you simply check off a list — it’s a city that sweeps you up in its rhythm. One minute you’re standing in the silence of a centuries-old temple, and the next you’re dodging motorbikes while a street vendor hands you a bowl of something incredible. That mix of calm and chaos is what makes the capital unforgettable.
The best way to enjoy Hanoi is not by rushing through every attraction, but by giving yourself space to breathe it all in. Pick a handful of experiences that truly excite you, pause for a slow cup of egg coffee whenever the mood strikes, and let the rest unfold naturally. Often, the most memorable moments here happen between the things you planned.
Ready for your next food adventure? If you’re hungry for more, dive into our guide to the Best Banh Mi in Hanoi — your taste buds will thank you.
Want a stress-free trip? Let Asia Mystika plan it for you.
If you’d rather skip the hassle of transport, entrance tickets, and endless planning, Asia Mystika — a trusted Vietnam-based tour operator — can organise your entire Hanoi experience. From local food tours to day trips and full itineraries across Vietnam, we’ll take care of everything so you can focus on enjoying the journey.
Just reach out, share your travel dates, and let our experts craft your perfect Hanoi itinerary.
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