By Soren Rivero ✔ Reviewed by travel expert Ben Braude
Hanoi is Northern Vietnam's city of deep contrasts, where ancient temples, post-colonial architecture, and modern energy all fuse into one truly unique city.
From the moment you step into Hanoi, you'll feel how alive the city is, from the buzz of motorbikes to the crashing of waves near Ha Long Bay.
With plenty of iconic landmarks to local food and unique cultural experiences, the city provides something for every type of traveler. Whether you're interested in history, cuisine, or simply soaking in the atmosphere, here are the top 10 best things to do in Hanoi, Vietnam.
Wander the Old Quarter
Just like any other city that's filled with culture and history, the Old Quarter of Hanoi is something you simply cannot miss. This historic sector of Hanoi dates back over 1,000 years, originally filled with trade guilds and market stalls, some of which are still present today.
Walking through the Old Quarter can be a little tricky, as it reflects something similar to a labyrinth, however, there's plenty of fun things to do along the way. Stop by silk shops, metalworkers, antique shops, and of course, street vendors. The architecture is a mix of traditional Vietnamese tube houses and French colonial influences. It's best explored on foot, allowing time to stop for local snacks, browse small shops, and observe daily life.
See the Temple of Literature
The Temple of Literature is one of the finest examples of traditional Vietnamese architecture and a symbol of the country's long-standing respect for education. Founded in 1070, it later became Vietnam's first university.
The temple is arranged in a series of peaceful courtyards, with gardens, altars, and stone tablets engraved with the names of successful scholars. It's a popular place for students and visitors alike, offering a calm, reflective atmosphere away from the city's busy streets.
Visit Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum
Take an introductory tour of modern Vietnamese history at the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum. Famous for being the resting place of Ho Chi Minh (the leader given credit for Vietnamese independence), you'll learn quite a bit about Vietnam's last few centuries by exploring here.
Before you begin your history lessons, just note that there are some rules and regulations kept in place to make sure everyone is respectful and formal– be sure to check in with your guide or any staff on questions you may have. Beyond the mausoleum, the surrounding complex includes the Presidential Palace, Ho Chi Minh's modest stilt house, and tranquil gardens.
Walk Around Hoan Kiem Lake
For a scenery change, you'll want to head on over to Hanoi's beautiful central gathering place: Hoan Kiem Lake. Legend has it that this lake is where a magical sword was returned to a golden turtle– you can see the influence of this tale right in the middle, where a Turtle Tower sits poised for viewing.
For a more authentic experience of the lake, visit early in the morning and just before dusk in the evening, where locals come to socialize, exercise, and observe. Before you go, definitely visit Ngoc Son Temple located on a small island nearby. Hoan Kiem Lake is a central gathering place and one of the most scenic places in Hanoi.
Try Hanoi's Street Food
This one is a no brainer, but trying Hanoi's street food? A must. The food culture in Hanoi is one of the city's biggest highlights, and what better way to witness it than on the streets where it all originated? Make sure you're hungry before you depart on your food quest, as you're in for some real treats.
Signature dishes like pho, a fragrant noodle soup typically eaten for breakfast, are widely available at small roadside stalls. You can also try banh mi, a fusion of French and Vietnamese flavors, and bun cha, a local favorite featuring grilled pork served with noodles and herbs. Eating on low stools alongside locals is part of the charm, giving you the best, most memorable experience.
Watch a Water Puppet Show
Something truly unique to Northern Vietnam that many visitors tend to miss out on are the water puppetry shows. This traditional art form is a beloved practice in Northern Vietnam, and you can see the best of its evolution by watching a show at the Thang Long Water Puppet Theater.
Birthed in rural villages centuries ago, these shows tell stories of farmers living their lives while encountering folklore and historical legends– all depicted by wooden puppets moving across a water stage. You'll not only see a great show, but listen to beautiful music and learn some history as well!
Explore Hoa Lo Prison Museum
Take a deeper look into Vietnam's complex past with a stop by the Hoa Lo Prison Museum. A French design dating back to the late 19th century, this prison was used primarily for political prisoners. The prison became more internationally recognized during the Vietnam War.
The exhibits include preserved prison cells, historical photographs, and personal stories that highlight the harsh conditions endured by prisoners. It's a sobering but important stop for understanding the country's history from multiple perspectives.
Visit the Train Street
Hanoi Train Street is one of the city's most unusual and photogenic locations. This narrow residential street is built around an active railway line, with homes and cafés just steps from the tracks. When a train approaches, businesses quickly clear the area, and visitors step aside as it passes through.
While access is sometimes restricted for safety reasons, visiting with a local guide or through a café can provide a safe way to experience this unique setting.
Take a Day Trip to Ha Long Bay
One of Hanoi's most popular excursions for both first-time and repeat visitors is a day trip to Ha Long Bay.
This UNESCO World Heritage Site is known for its dramatic limestone karsts rising out of emerald waters, creating a backdrop for photos you can't find anywhere else. While here, you can take a journey around the green waters by boat, kayak through hidden caves, or even take an overnight cruise.
Discover the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology
Want more insight on Vietnam's cultural diversity? The Vietnam Museum of Ethnology is the place to go! Fun fact: did you know that Vietnam is home to more than 50 ethnic groups, all having their own clothing, dialect, traditions, customs, and way of life?
Walk through each door of this museum's exhibits to uncover details about the plethora of Vietnamese cultures. You'll find anything from relics, to translations, to outdoor full-scale traditional homes.
