20 Unforgettable Things to Do in Hanoi: An Insider's Guide (2025)

Hanoi, the heart of Vietnam, is a captivating city of contrasts, where ancient temples stand beside vibrant, modern streets. To truly experience its magic, you need to go beyond the typical tourist trail. Based on local experience, here are 20 unforgettable things to do in Hanoi that will help you feel the authentic pulse of this thousand-year-old capital.

Part 1: A Journey into Vietnam's Rich History

To understand the Hanoi of today, you must first connect with its storied past.

1. Pay Respects at the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum Complex

A visit here is essential to understand modern Vietnam and its revered founding father, Ho Chi Minh.

• Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum: The final resting place of the President.

  • Dress Code: Be respectful. Wear long pants/skirts and shirts that cover your shoulders.

  • Opening Hours (for viewing inside):

    • Hot Season (Apr 1 - Oct 31): 7:30 AM - 10:30 AM (until 11:00 AM on weekends/holidays).

    • Cold Season (Nov 1 - Mar 31): 8:00 AM - 11:00 AM (until 11:30 AM on weekends/holidays).

  • Note: The mausoleum is closed on Mondays, Fridays, and for annual maintenance.

• Flag Raising & Lowering Ceremonies: Witness this solemn and moving ceremony at 6:00 AM and 9:00 PMdaily at Ba Dinh Square.

• Nearby Attractions: Don't miss the Ho Chi Minh Museum and the architecturally unique One Pillar Pagoda.

2. Explore the Temple of Literature (Văn Miếu - Quốc Tử Giám)

As Vietnam's first university, this stunning complex is a tribute to education and scholarship. Admire the traditional architecture and the ancient stone turtles inscribed with the names of scholars. For a truly magical experience, check out the Temple of Literature Night Tour.

3. Confront the Past at Hoa Lo Prison Relic

Nicknamed the "Hanoi Hilton," Hoa Lo Prison is a sobering reminder of the atrocities of the French colonial era and the resilience of the Vietnamese people. It's a powerful and deeply moving historical site.

Other Recommended Museums:

• Vietnam Women's Museum

• Vietnam Museum of Ethnology

• Vietnam Military History Museum

• Vietnamese National Museum of Fine Arts

Part 2: Immerse Yourself in the Old Quarter's Vibe (Things to do in Hanoi)

The Old Quarter is the soul of Hanoi, where every alley and storefront tells a story.

4. Stroll Around Hoan Kiem Lake (Lake of the Restored Sword)

This iconic lake is the city's heart and soul. Take a leisurely walk, see the legendary Turtle Tower, and cross the vibrant red The Huc Bridge to visit Ngoc Son Temple. On weekends (Friday evening to Sunday evening), the surrounding streets transform into a lively pedestrian-only walking street.

5. Discover Ancient Religious Landmarks

Hanoi's Old Quarter is dotted with beautiful temples, pagodas, and churches. A visit to St. Joseph's Cathedral, Bach Ma Temple, or Quan Su Pagoda will reward you with stunning photos and a sense of tranquility amidst the chaos.

6. Master the Art of Crossing the Street

Crossing the road in Hanoi is an experience in itself. The secret? Walk slowly and confidently at a steady pace. Don't hesitate and never run. The river of motorbikes will magically flow around you.

7. Haggle and Shop at Dong Xuan Market

As Hanoi's largest indoor market, Dong Xuan is a bustling hub of commerce. It's a fantastic place to observe local life, but if you plan to buy something, be prepared to bargain hard—vendors often quote high prices for tourists.

Part 3: A Culinary Heaven for Food Lovers

You haven't truly been to Hanoi until you've tasted its incredible food.

8. Devour World-Famous Street Food

From a steaming bowl of Phở (noodle soup) to sizzling Bún Chả (grilled pork with noodles) and savory Bánh Mì(Vietnamese sandwich), the city is a non-stop feast. Don't be afraid to pull up a tiny plastic stool at a sidewalk stall—that's where you'll find the best flavors.

9. Indulge in Hanoi's Unique Coffee Culture

Hanoi is a coffee lover's paradise. You absolutely must try the legendary Egg Coffee (Cà phê trứng), the surprisingly delicious Salt Coffee (Cà phê muối), or a classic Iced Coffee with Condensed Milk (Nâu đá).

10. Drink "Bia Hơi" on Ta Hien Street

Bia Hơi is fresh, light draught beer served ice-cold in a glass mug. Head to Ta Hien Street (often called "Beer Street") in the evening, grab a plastic chair, and enjoy the lively atmosphere with some local snacks. It's a quintessential Hanoi experience.

11. Taste the Iconic Trang Tien Ice Cream

This legendary local brand has been a Hanoi staple for generations. Be sure to try the Kem Cốm (Green Rice Flake) flavor for an authentic taste that locals love.

12. Be Adventurous with "Challenging" Foods

For the daring foodie, Hanoi offers some truly unique dishes. Consider trying trứng vịt lộn (duck embryo), tiết canh (raw blood pudding), or bún đậu mắm tôm (tofu and noodles with fermented shrimp paste). Approach these with an open mind and respect for the local culture.

Part 4: Live Like a True Hanoian

To truly connect with the city, try embracing the daily rhythm of its people.

13. Catch the Sunrise or Sunset at West Lake

Join the locals for an early morning (5-6 AM) or late afternoon (5-6 PM) cycle or jog around West Lake (Hồ Tây). The peaceful atmosphere and beautiful views, especially along tree-lined streets like Phan Dinh Phung, are simply priceless.

14. Sip Sidewalk Iced Tea or Sugarcane Juice

Take a break at one of the countless small stalls run by elderly ladies. A cup of trà đá (iced tea) or nước mía (sugarcane juice) costs next to nothing and is the perfect way to people-watch.

15. Learn a Few Vietnamese Exclamations

Using simple phrases will bring a smile to any local's face. Try these:

• Trời ơi! = Oh my god!

• Ngon quá! = So delicious!

• Đẹp quá! = So beautiful!

16. Tour the City on the Back of a Scooter

There's no better way to experience the exhilarating energy of Hanoi's traffic than from the back of a motorbike. It’s the fastest way to navigate the city’s winding alleys.

Part 5: Other Unique Entertainment

17. Watch a Traditional Water Puppet Show

This unique Vietnamese art form, where puppets dance on water, is a delightful experience for all ages. The Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre near Hoan Kiem Lake is the most famous venue.

18. See the Sights with a Hop-on, Hop-off Bus Tour

For a relaxed and comprehensive way to see Hanoi's major landmarks, the double-decker tourist bus is an excellent choice.

19. Enjoy Tropical Fruits

Don't miss the chance to try seasonal tropical fruits like jackfruit, longan, lychee, rambutan, and dragon fruit. If you're brave, try durian—but maybe not in your hotel room due to its powerful smell!

20. Leave a Lovely Review

If you have a great experience at a hotel, restaurant, or with a service, leaving a positive online review is a wonderful way to show your appreciation and help fellow travelers.

Essential Tips for Travelers in Hanoi

• Always Ask for the Price First: To avoid scams or overcharging, confirm the price before agreeing to buy anything or use a service.

• Use Ride-Hailing Apps: Stick to Grab, GoJek, or Xanh SM for transportation. They offer fixed, fair prices and are much more reliable than hailing a random taxi.

• Know the Local Prices: A small donut (bánh rán) should cost around 5,000 VND. A shoe-cleaning service on the street should be about 15,000 - 20,000 VND.