Ultimate Hanoi Guide: Best things to do in Hanoi

Hanoi, Vietnam’s capital, is a beautiful contradiction: ancient temples and traditional Vietnamese architecture shadowed by blocks of Soviet style grey concrete apartment buildings and government structures.

There’s no gentleness in Hanoi. It’s completely chaotic with honking scooters, narrow alleys, incense smoke, and sidewalk stools stacked by makeshift kitchens. You’ll dodge scooters as you quickly learn how to cross the street and stand in awe as locals balance 20 boxes on the back of those motorbikes.

Hanoi isn’t a city that you can easily glide through. It’s a place you experience—on foot, over food, and with all your senses turned up. There are hundreds of things to do in Hanoi, but if you want a polished and predictable destination, Hanoi’s not it.

However, if you want a destination with character, one that’s magnetic and gritty, and a city that is unapologetically alive, then Hanoi Vietnam is the place for you.

In this Hanoi Guide you’ll get a practical roadmap to navigating it all:

• Where to wander—from the tangled alleys of the Old Quarter to the peaceful paths around Hoan Kiem Lake.
• What to see—like the Temple of Literature, Train Street, and the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum.
• Where to eat—including street stalls dishing out the best bun cha, and hidden rooftop cafes worth the climb.
• When to go, how long to stay, where to sleep, and what first-timers always wish they knew.

Is Hanoi Worth Visiting?

Short answer: absolutely—if you know what you’re signing up for.

Yes, Hanoi is worth visiting if:

• You’re fascinated by history, especially the French colonial era, Cold War politics, or dynastic Vietnam.
• You travel to eat. Hanoi is one of the best food cities in Asia, full stop. And it’s absurdly affordable.
• You like walking through chaos that somehow works—Old Quarter traffic is infamous, but also kind of mesmerizing.
• You want access to nearby day trips or multi-day adventures (Halong Bay, Ninh Binh, Sapa).

Hanoi might not be for you if:

• You want pristine beaches or serene countryside vibes. Hanoi is not that.
• You hate noise, unpredictability, or scooters driving on sidewalks.
• You’re expecting something like Bangkok or Tokyo—Hanoi runs at its own, slightly unhinged rhythm.

Bottom line: Hanoi doesn’t cater to tourists the way some cities do, and that’s part of its draw. Come curious, come caffeinated, and you’ll find yourself swept up in something real.

How to get to Hanoi

By Air

Hanoi is located in the northern part of Vietnam and if you’re arriving from another country you’ll likely be flying into Nội Bài International Airport (HAN), the largest airport in Vietnam. The airport is about 30 minutes north of the Hanoi Vietnam Old Quarter.

Once you arrive at the Hanoi Airport, you’ll need to find a way to get to Hanoi. Your main options are taking a taxi, Grab (like Uber), or taking a public bus.

Taxi

Taking a taxi will be the fastest and easiest way to get to Hanoi’s Old Quarter, but will cost the most. It’s approximately $25 for a taxi to take you from the Noi Bai International Airport to the Hanoi city center.

Grab

Another option is Grab, Southeast Asia’s own version of Uber. Be sure to download the Grab app before you leave home. This will be slightly cheaper than a taxi, but you will have to wait until you get outside to request one which will take more time than simply getting in a taxi.

If you have a few extra minutes to spare, I’d go with Grab. We’ve used Grab throughout Vietnam, Thailand, and Cambodia with no problems.

Public Bus

If you really want to save some money then you can always be adventurous and take a public bus. It will be the cheapest form of traveling from the Hanoi Airport to Hanoi. You’ll have several buses to choose from but the most popular route is Bus 86.

Once you arrive, you’ll need to make your way to the T1 Terminal Gate which is the domestic airline terminal. The buses are parked in front of the airport terminal. You will need cash to purchase your ticket so be sure to get some Vietnamese Dong (that’s what it’s called) at an ATM in the airport.

The bus runs from 5am to 9pm and will cost about $2 per person and take around 30 minutes, depending on traffic. Bus 86 will take you to the Hanoi Railway Station and from there you can either walk to your hotel or get a taxi or grab. It’s about a 25 minute walk from the railway station to the Old Quarter.

By Train

If you’re traveling to Hanoi from another city in Vietnam, you have the option of taking a train. This is a good option if your travel plans start in the southern part of Vietnam and you’re traveling to multiple places in Vietnam.

We used a combination of trains, buses, and flights during our 3 weeks in Vietnam and even took a 12 hour sleeping train from Hue to Ninh Binh.

By Bus

Vietnam has a fantastic bus system that travels throughout the country. There are buses with regular seats that you sit in, like big touring buses, and then there are sleeper buses. Both are very affordable and pretty much every town and city has long distance bus services.

The prices will vary but even if you were to take a bus from Ho Chi Minh City at the southern part of Vietnam all the way to Hanoi in the North, it would take 1.5 days and cost about $60. Please don’t do that though because that would be pure misery! My point is, traveling by bus is very affordable.

Getting around Hanoi

Once you’ve arrived in Hanoi, you’ll need to find a way to get around. The sights in Hanoi are mostly clustered in a central location but a few are further out from the others.

• Walking: Hanoi is a very walkable city, especially in and around the Old Quarter of Hanoi. We spent about 10 days in Hanoi and we only walked the entire time, sometimes 12 miles a day.
  
• Taxi: Taxis are all over the place, especially in the tourist spots, so you will always be able to find one. Using Grab is another good option and will be cheaper than taking a taxi.
  
• Motorbike: We love renting a motorcycle/scooter when we travel but unless you’ve spent a considerable amount driving one in a large city in Asia, I do NOT recommend it. Trust me, you’ll completely understand once you’re there.
  
• Cyclo: Yes, they are very touristy, but when you’re tired and hot and just want to rest, get a cyclo. It will likely cost more than a Grab but YOLO!

Where to stay in Hanoi

I wouldn’t say this about every country, but in Hanoi you should try to stay near the sights. Either stay in the Old Quarter or as close as possible to it. Accommodations in Vietnam are so affordable, even in the touristy parts, that it doesn’t make sense to stay a mile away to save a few dollars.

You’ll end up walking a long distance to see the sights or will have to pay for a taxi and that ends up costing more. Trust me, stay in the Old Quarter.

Best time to visit Hanoi

The best time to visit Hanoi depends on what your plans are. Vietnam is huge and the weather can be very hot and humid in the south while in Hanoi, it’s cooler. I can confidently say that unless you love the heat and humidity, do not visit in the summer (May – August). You will spend your time taking 3 showers a day and wringing your shirt out in between.

Try to visit in the spring (March and April) for mild, dry and comfortable temperatures. You will still have warm temperatures if you want to swim but the humidity won’t kill you.

Photographers Take Note:

Spring and fall are the best time for photos in Hanoi. The light during this time is just right.

In the spring, everthing is blooming from the flowers and trees to the markets. The air is clean and less hazy than other seasons making for nice clear skies.

In the fall, the sun casts a warm diffused glow. As the temperatures start to cool, you’ll find morning mist or fog over lakes and valleys.

Bottom Line:

• Best overall: March–April
• Best for cooler temperatures: December–February
• Best for lush scenery: Late spring
• Avoid: Jun-August if you hate heat and sudden rainstorms

What to do in Hanoi

There are hundreds of things to do in Hanoi and such a large variety of activities that everyone will find something to make them happy. From historical sites such as the Temple of Literature and Hoa Lo Prison, to quirky spots like train street to must do Hanoi activities like the Water Puppet Show. Let’s take a look at some of the best things to do in Hanoi.

1. Temple of Literature

The Temple of Literature in Hanoi is a historic complex founded in 1070 during the reign of Emperor Lý Thánh Tông. It is Vietnam’s first national university and is dedicated to Confucius and his scholars.

The Temple of Literature is not only a place of learning but also a symbol of education and literature in Vietnam. It has beautiful traditional architecture with five courtyards and various pavilions, making it a popular tourist attraction in Hanoi.

2. St. Joseph’s Cathedral

It’s an odd thing to see a Roman Catholic Church in the middle of Hanoi. During the French occupation of Vietnam from the mid-19th century to the mid-20th century, many French colonial buildings, including churches, were constructed.

The cathedral was designed by Jules Bourard, a French architect, and its architecture was inspired by the Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris, France. St. Joseph’s was designed in a Gothic Revival style and features high walls, pointed arches, and tall windows.

The Cathedral is considered a cultural and religious landmark in the city and attracts both locals and tourists. The cathedral holds regular worship services and is also a popular destination for visitors. The cathedral is surrounded by cafes, restaurants, and shops so expect a crowd.

3. Hoan Kiem Lake

Hoan Kiem Lake, also known as Lake of the Returned Sword, is a picturesque lake located in the heart of Hanoi, Vietnam. It is considered a symbol of the city and is a popular spot for both tourists and locals.

The lake is surrounded by lush greenery, historical monuments, and traditional Vietnamese architecture. Legend has it that the lake is where Emperor Le Loi returned his magical sword to the Golden Turtle God, marking the end of the war against the Chinese Ming Dynasty in the 15th century.

4. Ngoc Son Temple

Ngoc Son Temple, also known as the Temple of the Jade Mountain, is a famous historical and cultural site located on an islet in the middle of Hoan Kiem Lake in Hanoi, Vietnam.

The temple was built in the 18th century to honor the military leader Tran Hung Dao, the scholar Van Xuong, and the legendary giant tortoise that is said to have inhabited the lake.

It’s a popular tourist attraction and an important symbol of Hanoi’s rich history and heritage.

5. Water Puppet Show

The water puppet show in Hanoi is a traditional Vietnamese art form that dates back to the 11th century in the villages of the Red River Delta region. It involves wooden puppets that are controlled by puppeteers hidden behind a bamboo screen while standing in waist-deep water.

The puppets perform on the water’s surface, accompanied by live traditional music and storytelling. The water puppet show typically depicts scenes from rural life, folklore, and historical events in Vietnam.

Book your skip-the-line Water Puppet Show

6. Hoa Lo Prison Relic

Hoa Lo Prison, also known as the “Hanoi Hilton” by American POWs during the Vietnam War, is a significant historical site in Hanoi with a complex history.

The prison was originally built by the French colonial government between 1896-1901, it was designed to hold Vietnamese political prisoners who opposed French rule. The prison was notorious for its harsh conditions and brutal treatment of Vietnamese revolutionaries.

Many prominent Vietnamese leaders, including future Communist Party officials, were imprisoned there.

During the Vietnam War (1964-1973), the prison held American pilots and aircrew who had been shot down over North Vietnam. Notable prisoners included Senator John McCain, who was held there for over five years. The American POWs gave it the ironic nickname “Hanoi Hilton” due to the poor conditions and treatment they experienced.

Today, part of the original prison has been preserved as the Hoa Lo Prison Museum. Most of the original structure was demolished in the 1990s to make way for the Hanoi Towers development, but the museum section displays exhibits about both periods of the prison’s use – the French colonial era and the American POW period.

7. Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum

The Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum is a large memorial in Hanoi, Vietnam, where the embalmed body of Vietnamese revolutionary leader Ho Chi Minh is preserved and displayed. People visit it to pay respects to Ho Chi Minh, who is considered the father of modern Vietnam.

Ho Chi Minh played a crucial role in Vietnam’s fight for independence from colonial powers and the mausoleum gives visitors a chance to learn more about the country’s history and its revered leader.

Every year around November, Ho Chi Minh’s body is removed from public display for maintenance and preservation work. This can last for several weeks and during this period, the mausoleum is closed to visitors.

The body is taken to Russia, where Soviet embalmers originally preserved it in 1969 and specialists there continue to maintain the preservation work.

8. Wander the 36 Guild Streets

One of the best things to do in Hanoi is to wander through the 36 Guild Streets, also known as the Old Quarter in Hanoi, Vietnam. The 36 streets is a historic area that dates back to the 13th century.

The streets are named after the different guilds that once operated there, each specializing in a specific trade, such as silk, jewelry, and ceramics.

Visiting the 36 Guild Streets gives people the opportunity to experience Hanoi’s cultural heritage and to explore the bustling street markets, charming old houses, and traditional craft shops.

It’s a great place to shop for unique souvenirs, sample local street food, and take in the lively atmosphere of the city while getting a glimpse into Hanoi’s past. It’s a must-see destination for anyone visiting Hanoi.

9. Imperial Citadel of Thang Long

The Imperial Citadel of Thang Long is a UNESCO World Heritage site located in Hanoi, Vietnam. It was built in the 11th century during the reign of the Ly Dynasty and served as the political center of Vietnam for almost 13 centuries.

The Imperial Citadel of Thang Long features well-preserved ruins, including the royal palaces, gates, temples, and ancient relics that showcase Vietnam’s architectural and artistic achievements.

Visitors will learn about the country’s dynastic past, the rise and fall of different ruling families, and the political and cultural developments that shaped Vietnam into what it is today.

Additionally, the site provides visitors with an opportunity to appreciate the intricate design and symbolism embedded in Vietnamese architecture and art. It’s a unique and immersive experience that allows visitors to connect with Vietnam’s history and heritage.

10. Train Street

A Hanoi travel guide would not be complete without mentioning one of Hanoi’s most infamous sites: Train Street. It’s oddly become one of the city’s most popular tourist attractions where active railway tracks run directly through a narrow residential neighborhood.

Houses along train street were built just inches from the railway line. Twice a day, trains pass through at scheduled times and residents quickly move belongings and press against their doorways as the train squeezes through. Once the train has passed, life gets back to normal.

Train street became Instagram famous around 2018 and residents of train street capitalized on this, opening cafes and bars along the tracks, generally on the lower level of their homes.

In 2019 train street was closed due to safety concerns. You can no longer just freely roam the tracks unrestricted. The Vietnamese government has restricted access due to overcrowding and safety.

Now, if you want to visit train street you will have to wait at the barricade for a resident to come and take you directly to their cafe where you can sit and enjoy a drink while waiting for the train to pass. It’s an experience you shouldn’t miss!

11. Try an Egg Coffee

Ca phe trung (egg coffee) is one of Hanoi’s most unique culinary invention – coffee topped with a creamy mixture of egg yolk, sugar, and condensed milk.

Egg coffee was created in the 1940’s during a milk shortage. Nguyen Van Giang invented it as a substitute when fresh milk was scarce during wartime. Vietnamese drip coffee is topped with a creamy foam made from egg yolks whipped with sweetened condensed milk. The egg mixture is whisked until it becomes thick and fluffy and then topped on the coffee.

You can visit Cafe Giang on Nguyen Huu Huan street which is still run by the inventor’s family. While you can find egg coffee througout Vietnam, Cafe Giang is the most authentic version.

12. Vietnam Museum of Ethnology

The Vietnam Museum of Ethnology is a must see in Hanoi for insight into Vietnamese culture and history. The museum showcases the diverse ethnic groups that make up Vietnam’s population through fascinating exhibits, artifacts, and interactive displays.

Visitors can learn about the traditions, customs, and lifestyles of different ethnic minorities in Vietnam, gaining a deeper understanding and appreciation for the country’s cultural heritage.

The museum also has educational programs and activities for both adults and children, making it a great place for families and students to learn about Vietnam’s culture and history.

13. Beer Street

At the end of the day you’ve probably had your fill of historical and cultural sights and are just ready to sit and relax and have fun. Well, you’ll want to head over to Beer Street for that!

Beer Street, also known as “Ta Hien Street,” is a popular nightlife spot in the city. It’s located in the Old Quarter and is known for its vibrant atmosphere, with numerous bars, pubs, and street food stalls lining the street.

There’s a wide variety of local and international beers at affordable prices and is a favorite destination for locals and tourists looking to socialize, relax, and experience the nightlife of Hanoi.

14. Vietnamese Cooking Class

The ultimate souvenir to take home would be to learn how to cook a traditional Vietnamese meal. These hands-on experiences typically begin with a visit to a local market, where instructors guide you through the maze of vendors selling fresh herbs, exotic vegetables, and aromatic spices that form the foundation of Vietnamese cuisine.

Back in the kitchen, you’ll cook some Vietnamese favorites such as spring rolls, pho, and bun cha. You’ll learn how to balance the flavors that define Vietnamese cooking: sweet, sour, salty, and spicy.

By the end of the class, you’ll leave not just with new recipes, but with a deeper appreciation for what makes Vietnamese cuisine so compelling.

Book your Hanoi Market Visit & Cooking Class

15. One Pillar Pagoda

The One Pillar Pagoda, located in Hanoi, Vietnam, is a historic Buddhist temple that dates back to the 11th century. It was originally built by Emperor Ly Thai Tong and is considered one of Vietnam’s most iconic landmarks.

The One Pillar Pagoda is a must see in Hanoi because of its unique architectural design and cultural significance. The pagoda’s structure, which resembles a lotus blossom emerging from water, symbolizes purity and beauty in Vietnamese culture.

The pagoda is believed to bring good luck and prosperity to those who visit and pray there. The One Pillar Pagoda gives visitors a glimpse into Vietnam’s spiritual heritage.

16. Street Food Tour

Maybe cooking isn’t your thing and you just prefer to eat. One of the best things to do in Hanoi is to go on a street food tour. You’ll have a Hanoi Guide take you to the must-eat spots eliminating the guesswork of which street stall to choose from.

No worrying about what you’re ordering, wondering if you’ve chosen a good street food vendor, and having a local that speaks the language means you can just enjoy the food.

Book your 7 Tastings Street Food Tour with a visit to Train Street

17. Long Bien Bridge

The Long Bien Bridge is a historic bridge that spans the Red River. It was built between 1899 and 1902 by the French architect Gustave Eiffel, who also designed the iconic Eiffel Tower in Paris.

The bridge played a crucial role during the Vietnam War, serving as a vital transportation route for supplies and troops. Today, the Long Bien Bridge is a popular spot for tourists and locals to stroll across and take in panoramic views of the Red River and Hanoi skyline.

18. Tran Quoc Pagoda

Tran Quoc Pagoda is the oldest Buddhist temple in Hanoi, Vietnam, dating back to the 6th century during the reign of Emperor Ly Nam De. The pagoda is known for its tall, red-lacquered pillar that dates back to the 17th century, as well as its beautiful gardens and sculptures.

The Tran Quoc Pagoda is located on West Lake and is the perfect escape from the busy and chaotic hustle of Hanoi’s Old Quarter. Visitors can take part in Buddhist ceremonies and rituals at Tran Quoc Pagoda making it a must see in Hanoi.

Overall, Tran Quoc Pagoda is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in history, culture, and spirituality, offering a unique glimpse into Vietnam’s heritage.

19. Stilt House and Presidential Palace

The stilt house and presidential palace in Hanoi, Vietnam are both iconic landmarks that hold historical and cultural significance. The stilt house is where the late President Ho Chi Minh lived and worked from 1958 until his passing in 1969. It’s a simple wooden house built on stilts, surrounded by lush gardens, and offers a glimpse into the life of one of Vietnam’s most revered leaders.

The presidential palace, located next to the stilt house, is a grand French colonial-style building that once served as the residence of the French Governor-General of Indochina and later as the official residence of the President of South Vietnam. Today, it’s used for official state functions and ceremonies.

Visiting these sites provides an opportunity to learn about Vietnam’s history, its struggle for independence, and the legacy of President Ho Chi Minh.

20. Quan Thanh Pagoda

Quan Thanh Pagoda is a historic Buddhist temple built during the reign of Emperor Ly Thai To in the 11th century and is dedicated to Huyen Thien Tran Vo, a Taoist deity.

The Quan Thanh Pagoda is known for its large bronze statue of Tran Vu, who is believed to be the God of the North in Vietnamese mythology. Visitors can also explore the surroundings of the pagoda, which include a tranquil courtyard and a peaceful lake.

Additionally, Quan Thanh Pagoda is located near several other popular attractions in Hanoi, making it a convenient stop when exploring the city’s culture and history. It’s a great way to learn about Vietnam’s spiritual traditions and admire the ancient architectural heritage.

21. Visit a Market

There are several markets in Hanoi that are worth a visit and are great not only for shopping but also for getting a glimpse into the local culture and way of life in Hanoi.

• Dong Xuan Market: This is the largest market in Hanoi and offers a wide variety of goods, from clothing and accessories to electronics and souvenirs.
• Night Market in the Old Quarter: Open every weekend evening, this market is a great place to shop for local handicrafts, street food, and traditional Vietnamese souvenirs.
• Hang Da Market: Known for its high-quality textiles and fabrics, Hang Da Market is a great place to shop for clothing, bags, and accessories.
• Quang Ba Flower Market: If you’re looking to experience the vibrant colors and scents of Hanoi, be sure to visit this market early in the morning when vendors sell fresh flowers and plants.
• Hom Market: This market is a great spot to shop for antiques, traditional Vietnamese pottery, and unique home decor items.

Hanoi Guide: Map of Hanoi Sights

Day Trips from Hanoi

Hanoi is the perfect home base in Northern Vietnam for taking some day trips or maybe even an overnight trip. Day trips are nice because someone else handles everything for you including the transportation and you’ll come back to Hanoi in the evening.

On the other hand, if you have some extra days in your schedule then you can take a few days in either Ninh Binh, Halong Bay, or Sapa and really explore. All three places are worth staying a few days but if you don’t have time, then a day trip is the next best option.

Ninh Binh

Ninh Binh is one of Vietnam’s best locations for hiking and nature. There is a lot to do there but if you don’t have time to spend a few days then definitely take a day trip to Ninh Binh.

You’ll be picked up in Hanoi’s Old Quarter and taken to Ninh Binh to explore two – three locations. You’ll get to choose between three different options that include Bai Dinh, Trang An, Mua Cave, and/or Hoa Lu.

Book your Ninh Binh day trip from Hanoi

Halong Bay

You could visit Halong Bay as a day trip but I’m going to recommend a 2 day, 1 night trip because it’s a place you want to really have the full experience of Ha Long Bay.

This overnight trip includes a stay in a 5-star cruise and all of your meals and any entry tickets needed. Some of the activities you can take part in is a a spring roll cooking class, ride on a bamboo boat around caves, swimming, kayaking, fishing, Tai Chi, and more.

Book your Halong Bay 2 day Tour from Hanoi now

Sapa

Sapa is a beautiful destination in the mountains north of Hanoi known for its stunning rice terraces, ethnic minority villages, and breathtaking mountain views. It’s one of Vietnam’s most popular locations for trekking and exploring and learning about the unique culture of the local hill tribes.

The rice planting season is from May-June and this is when the rice terraces are filled with water. Harvest time is from September-October and everything turns golden.

This 2 day Sapa trip takes you on a 12 kilometer hike, passing through rural villages and meeting with the local H’Mong people learning about their customs and daily life.

Book your 2-Day Sapa Trekking Trip with Homestay & Meals

How Many Days in Hanoi

Most travelers find that 4-6 days in Hanoi is ideal for experiencing Hanoi properly, though it depends on your travel style and interests.

3-4 days minimum allows you to cover the main highlights such as exploring the Old Quarter and visiting major sites like the Temple of Literature and Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum.This will also give you enough time to take a street food tour and maybe a day trip to Ninh Binh or Ha Long Bay.

5-7 days in Hanoi will give you a more relaxed pace and explore deeper into Hanoi’s layers. You can take a little more time wandering the different neighborhoods, take a cooking class, and explore local markets.

A week or more in Hanoi will reward your slower exploration allowing you to discover hidden alleyways, develop favorite local food stalls and maybe take a longer excursion to Sapa or Halong Bay.

Hanoi is the perfect base for exploring northern Vietnam. You can opt to spend a few days in Hanoi, then take a few days to spend in Sapa, Halong Bay, and Ninh Binh before coming back to Hanoi for a few more days.

Planning a trip to Vietnam? Use my 2 week Vietnam Itinerary to help you plan your trip.

Eating in Hanoi

The Old Quarter has many restaurants and street food stalls where you can try these dishes authentically, and don’t miss the weekend night markets for a great street food atmosphere.

Local Dishes to Try

• Pho
  Pho is the most famous dish to try in Vietnam and the northern style in Hanoi tends to be more sublte and clear comparted to southern varieties. Try both pho bo (beef) and pho ga (chicken).
• Bahn Mi
  The banh mi sandwiches in Hanoi often feature pate and Vietnamese cold cuts, different from the variations you’ll find in southern Vietnam.
• Bún chả
  Bun cha is quintessentially Hanoian – grilled pork patties and pork belly served with rice noodles, fresh herbs, and a sweet-tangy dipping sauce. This became internationally famous after Obama and Anthony Bourdain ate it together in Hanoi.
• Cha ca La Vong
  This is a unique Hanoi specialty – turmeric-marinated fish cooked tableside with dill and served with rice noodles. There’s a restaurant (more below) that is famous for this dish.
• Nem ran
  Nem ran are fried spring rolls and are typically smaller and crispier than southern versions. It’s often served with lettuce and herbs for wrapping.
• Xoi
  Xoi, or sticky rice, comes in many varieties and makes for a great breakfast or snack. Be sure to try the colorful versions with mung beans or sausage.

Where to Eat – Best Restaurants Hanoi

• Cha Ca La Vong
  This famous restaurant is named after the dish, Cha Ca La Vong. It’s located at 14 Cha Ca Street (which was actually renamed after the restaurant) in Hanoi’s Old Quarter. The restaurant has been in the same family since 1871 and they specialize almost exclusively in their signature turmeric fish dish.
• Bun Cha Huong Lien
  This spot became world-famous for being the place where Obama and Bourdain shared a meal. It’s on Le Van Huu Street and draws big crowds for it’s bun cha.
• Madame Hieng
  Known for traditional northern Vietnamese cuisine, Madame Hieng is best known for their nem nuong (grilled pork sausage) as well as other grilled specialties.
• Pho Gia Truyen
  Located near Hoan Kiem Lake, Pho Gia Truyen is often cited as one of the best pho spots in the city, serving the classic Hanoi-style beef pho.

Many of the best food experiences are actually at small street stalls and local joints without formal names – just look for places packed with locals, especially during meal times.

Tips for eating in Hanoi

• Follow the crowds: if you see a place is packed with locals, that’s usually a good sign. Go where the locals go and you know it will be good.
• Observe the cooking: When you’re eating at a food stall, look for how the food is being prepared. Avoid pre-cooked items that have been sitting out. You want to look for street stalls that sell out quickly and are constantly cooking fresh batches.
• Drink bottled water: You’ll want to be extra cautious when drinking water in Hanoi. Your best bet is to stick with bottled water.
• Have small bills ready: street food is cheap and vendors may not have change for large bills and they definitely won’t be taking credit cards.
• Trust your instincts: Hanoi’s food scene is generally safe but if something looks or smells off, skip it.

Travel Tips for your Trip to Hanoi

1. Crossing the street: The traffic looks chaotic but it has its own rhythm. When crossing streets, walk at a steady pace – don’t stop or run. Motorbikes will flow around you. Just start walking at a consistent pace and keep going. Trust me, the bikes will go around you.
2. Money: Always carry small bills with you. Many small shops and street vendors cannot break larger bills and they don’t always accept credit cards. ATMs are everywhere so you won’t have an issue getting more out. When it comes to tipping, it’s not expected but giving a small amount will be appreciated.
3. Navigation in Hanoi: Streets are narrow and can be confusing. Download offline maps in case you get in an area with spotty service.
4. Shopping: Haggling is expected at markets but not in stores. Stores will have a fixed price on their items. In the markets and with pop-up vendors on sidewalks or carts you should start at around 40% of the asking price and go from there.
5. Timing: Try to get out early in the morning to visit popular sites to avoid crowds. Not only will it be less crowded but you’ll be out before it gets too hot. Save a museum visit for when it’s too hot outside or in case of rain. Many museums are closed on Mondays so plan for that in your itinerary.
6. Clothing etiquette: Remove your shoes when entering homes and dress modestly when you visit religious sites.

Frequently Asked Questions