Things to do in Hanoi: the must-sees and our tips

In short: Hanoi is discovered on foot and by tasting. Get lost in the Old Quarter, walk around Hoàn Kiếm Lake, visit the Temple of Literature, see a water puppet show, try the street food, then head out to Ha Long Bay and Ninh Bình. To cross the street, walk slowly and steadily.

The Old Quarter

Trading streets, tube houses, small temples and stalls: the Old Quarter is Hanoi’s lively heart, buzzing day and night. In the evening, perch on a little stool for a street-food meal.

Hoàn Kiếm Lake

In the city centre, Hoàn Kiếm Lake and Ngọc Sơn Temple, linked to the shore by a red bridge, are a favourite stroll. At weekends, the streets around the lake become pedestrian in the evening.

The Temple of Literature and Ba Đình

The Temple of Literature, Vietnam’s first university, is a haven of calm with its courtyards and stelae. Nearby are the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and the One Pillar Pagoda: reduced hours and closures on some days, check before you go.

Water puppets

A traditional art of northern Vietnam, the water puppet show, with live music, is performed in theatres near Hoàn Kiếm Lake.

Street food

Phở, bún chả, bánh mì and the famous egg coffee: Hanoi is a street-food capital. A guided food tour helps you find your way.

Day trips from Hanoi

• Ha Long Bay, on a day cruise or with a night on board.
• Ninh Bình (Tràng An, Tam Cốc), the “Ha Long Bay on land”, by rowing boat among limestone peaks.
• Sapa and the northern rice terraces, for a few days.

Getting around

• On foot in the centre, crossing slowly and steadily.
• Ride-hailing apps (car or motorbike) for longer journeys.
• From Nội Bài airport, a booked transfer, ride-hailing or a bus to the centre.

All our tips for the country: Travel in Vietnam.

Where to stay in Hanoi?

The areas and our booking tips are covered in our guide Where to stay in Hanoi.