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Hanoi Travel Guide – Exploring Vietnam’s Capital

Posted By: Richard Roeffen / Vietnam Travel Guides

Explore the best Hanoi attractions, Hoan Kiem Lake to Train Street. Try local favorites like Pho and Egg Coffee, and discover why Hanoi is a must-visit destination in Vietnam!

Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam, is a city that beautifully blends ancient traditions with modern energy. Known for its rich history, vibrant street life, and delicious food, Hanoi offers an unforgettable experience for travelers. Whether you're wandering through the bustling Old Quarter, visiting historical landmarks, or enjoying a bowl of Pho by the roadside, Hanoi has something for everyone.

In this Hanoi travel guide, we’ll explore the best things to do in Hanoi, must-visit Hanoi attractions, and top local foods to try.

Top Attractions in Hanoi

Hoan Kiem Lake, Hanoi

Hoan Kiem Lake, Hanoi - (Source: Collected)

1. Hoan Kiem Lake & Ngoc Son Temple – The Heart of Hanoi

Keywords: Hoan Kiem Lake, Ngoc Son Temple, Hanoi attractions

Located in the center of Hanoi, Hoan Kiem Lake is one of the city’s most iconic landmarks. It’s a popular spot for locals and tourists alike, perfect for morning walks, photography, and relaxation.

At the northern end of the lake, you’ll find Ngoc Son Temple, a beautiful red temple dedicated to General Tran Hung Dao. To reach the temple, visitors walk across the picturesque The Huc Bridge, which offers stunning views of the lake.

Best time to visit: Early morning or late afternoon for a peaceful atmosphere.

2. Hanoi Old Quarter – The Soul of the City

Keywords: Hanoi Old Quarter, 36 ancient streets, best things to do in Hanoi

The Old Quarter of Hanoi is a lively district filled with narrow streets, traditional shops, and street food vendors. It’s a great place to explore on foot and experience the true spirit of Hanoi.

What to do in the Old Quarter:

  • Shop for souvenirs at Dong Xuan Market.
  • Try Hanoi street food, including Pho and Bun Cha.
  • Visit ancient houses and temples, like Bach Ma Temple.
  • Enjoy Hanoi’s famous nightlife at Ta Hien Street, also known as "Beer Street."

Pro Tip: The best way to explore the Old Quarter is by walking or taking a cyclo ride.

Hanoi Old Quarter, Hanoi

Hanoi Old Quarter, Hanoi - (Source: Collected)

3. Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum – A Tribute to Vietnam’s Founding Leader

Keywords: Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, Hanoi travel guide, Hanoi attractions

The Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum is one of the most significant historical sites in Vietnam. It houses the preserved body of President Ho Chi Minh, the revolutionary leader who played a crucial role in Vietnam’s independence.

Things to Know Before Visiting:

  • Opening hours: 7:30 AM – 10:30 AM (closed on Mondays and Fridays).
  • Dress code: Visitors must dress modestly (no shorts or sleeveless shirts).
  • No photography inside the mausoleum.

Nearby Attractions: Ho Chi Minh’s Stilt House, One Pillar Pagoda, and the Presidential Palace.

Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum

Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum - (Source: Collected)

4. Temple of Literature – Vietnam’s First University

Keywords: Temple of Literature, Confucius temple, best things to do in Hanoi

The Temple of Literature is one of the most beautiful and well-preserved ancient sites in Hanoi. Built in 1070, it was Vietnam’s first university, dedicated to Confucius and scholars.

Highlights of the Temple of Literature:

  • Five courtyards with traditional Vietnamese architecture.
  • Stone steles with names of scholars who passed royal exams.
  • A peaceful garden, ideal for escaping the city noise.

Best time to visit: Early morning to avoid crowds.

Hanoi Temple of Literature

Hanoi Temple of Literature - (Source: Collected)

5. Train Street – A Unique Hanoi Experience

Keywords: Train Street Hanoi, Hanoi attractions, best things to do in Hanoi

One of Hanoi’s most unique attractions is Train Street, where a railway track runs right through a narrow residential neighborhood. Visitors can sit in tiny cafés by the tracks and watch as the train passes just inches away them.

Safety Tip: Always check the train schedule and follow safety guidelines while visiting.

Hanoi Train Street

Hanoi Train Street - (Source: Collected)

Must-Try Food in Hanoi

Hanoi is famous for its delicious street food, and no trip is complete without tasting some of its most iconic dishes.

1. Pho – Vietnam’s Iconic Noodle Soup

Keywords: Pho, Vietnamese food, best things to eat in Hanoi

Pho is Vietnam’s national dish, consisting of rice noodles, beef or chicken, and a flavorful broth. It’s a staple breakfast dish in Hanoi and is best enjoyed at a street-side stall.

Where to try Pho in Hanoi:

  • Pho Gia Truyen (49 Bat Dan Street) – One of the most famous Pho spots.
  • Pho 10 Ly Quoc Su – Popular among locals and tourists.

Pho – Vietnams Iconic Noodle Soup

Pho – Vietnam’s Iconic Noodle Soup - (Source: Collected)

2. Bun Cha – A Hanoi Specialty

Keywords: Bun Cha, best food in Hanoi, Obama’s favorite Vietnamese food

Bun Cha is a dish of grilled pork patties served with vermicelli noodles, fresh herbs, and a sweet-savory dipping sauce. This dish gained international fame when President Barack Obama dined at a local Bun Cha restaurant in Hanoi.

Where to eat Bun Cha:

  • Bun Cha Huong Lien (Obama’s Bun Cha place).
  • Bun Cha Dac Kim – A local favorite.

Bun Cha (Vietnamese grilled pork)

Bun Cha (Vietnamese grilled pork) - (Source: Collected)

3. Egg Coffee – Hanoi’s Most Unique Drink

Keywords: Egg Coffee, best coffee in Hanoi, Hanoi travel guide

Egg Coffee (Ca Phe Trung) is a Hanoi specialty, made with strong Vietnamese coffee, egg yolk, sugar, and condensed milk. It has a creamy, custard-like texture and is a must-try in Hanoi.

Where to drink Egg Coffee:

  • Café Giang – The original Egg Coffee café.
  • Dinh Café – A hidden gem near Hoan Kiem Lake.

Egg Coffee

Egg Coffee - (Source: Collected)

Best Time to Visit Hanoi

✔ October to April is the best time to visit Hanoi for cool and dry weather.

  • Winter (December–February): Chilly but great for sightseeing.
  • Spring (March–April): Pleasant weather with blooming flowers.
  • Summer (May–September): Hot and humid with occasional heavy rains.

Final Thoughts

Hanoi is a city full of culture, history, and amazing food. Whether you're visiting for a few days or staying longer, this Hanoi travel guide will help you make the most of your trip. iconic landmarks like Hoan Kiem Lake and the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum to delicious local dishes like Pho and Egg Coffee, Hanoi offers an unforgettable experience for every traveler.

If you’re planning a trip to Vietnam, make sure Hanoi is at the top of your itinerary!

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Best Itinerary Services: 4-Day Hanoi Package Tour Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Hanoi – Old Quarter Exploration

  • Arrive at Noi Bai International Airport, transfer to your hotel.
  • Explore Hanoi Old Quarter, known for its bustling streets and colonial architecture.
  • Visit Hoan Kiem Lake & Ngoc Son Temple.
  • Enjoy a traditional Water Puppet Show.
  • Try Hanoi’s famous street food: Pho, Bun Cha, and Egg Coffee.
    ⭐ Best Experience: Walking around the Old Quarter and tasting local delicacies.

Day 2: Hanoi City Tour

  • Visit Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum & One Pillar Pagoda.
  • Explore Temple of Literature, Vietnam’s first university.
  • Discover Hoa Lo Prison (Hanoi Hilton), a historic French-era prison.
  • Visit the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology to learn about Vietnam’s ethnic groups.
  • Enjoy a traditional cyclo ride around the French Quarter.

⭐ Best Experience: Learning about Vietnam’s history and culture at key landmarks.

Day 3: Halong Bay Day Trip

  • Depart early for a Halong Bay cruise (around 2.5 hours Hanoi).
  • Cruise through limestone karsts and emerald waters.
  • Visit Sung Sot Cave (Surprise Cave) and kayak at Luon Cave.
  • Enjoy a fresh seafood lunch on board.
  • Return to Hanoi in the evening.

⭐ Best Experience: A scenic cruise through the stunning UNESCO-listed bay.

Day 4: Free Time & Departure

  • Visit West Lake & Tran Quoc Pagoda, Hanoi’s oldest Buddhist temple.
  • Shop for souvenirs at Dong Xuan Market or Lotte Tower Skywalk.
  • Transfer to Noi Bai International Airport for departure.

⭐ Best Experience: Buying souvenirs and enjoying a last cup of Vietnamese coffee.

Top 5 Must-Visit Destinations in Hanoi

Located in the center of Hanoi, Hoan Kiem Lake is a peaceful retreat the city’s busy streets. It is famous for the legend of the Golden Turtle and the magical sword.

Top Attractions:

  • Ngoc Son Temple – A beautiful temple on a small island in the lake.
  • The Huc Bridge – A bright red bridge leading to the temple.
  • Turtle Tower – A historical landmark in the middle of the lake.

⭐ Best Experience: Enjoy a morning walk around the lake and watch locals practice Tai Chi.

The Old Quarter is the most lively and historic part of Hanoi, filled with narrow streets, colonial buildings, and street food vendors.

Top Attractions:

  • Traditional shops and markets – Selling everything silk to souvenirs.
  • Ta Hien Street – Famous for its vibrant nightlife and local beer (Bia Hoi).
  • Street food stalls – Offering Hanoi’s best dishes like Pho and Bun Cha.

⭐ Best Experience: Taking a street food tour and trying Egg Coffee in a hidden café.

The Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum Complex is a must-visit for those interested in Vietnam’s history and culture.

Top Attractions:

  • Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum – The final resting place of Vietnam’s most famous leader.
  • Presidential Palace & Stilt House – Where Ho Chi Minh lived and worked.
  • One Pillar Pagoda – A unique Buddhist pagoda built on a single stone pillar.

⭐ Best Experience: Witnessing the changing of the guards at the mausoleum.

Built in 1070, the Temple of Literature is dedicated to Confucius and served as Vietnam’s first university. It’s one of Hanoi’s most well-preserved historical sites.

Top Attractions:

  • Beautiful courtyards and pavilions showcasing traditional Vietnamese architecture.
  • The Stelae of Doctors, where the names of top scholars were carved in stone.
  • A peaceful garden and pond perfect for photography.

⭐ Best Experience: Walking through the Five Courtyards and admiring the ancient architecture.

Hanoi’s Train Street is one of the most Instagrammable spots in the city, where a train passes through a narrow alley lined with cafes.

Top Attractions:

  • Watching the train pass just inches houses and shops.
  • Enjoying Vietnamese coffee at a local café right by the tracks.
  • Experiencing the thrill of Hanoi’s urban life up close.

⭐ Best Experience: Arriving before the train schedule to secure a great viewing spot!

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