Top 15 best activities to do in Hanoi

Vietnam, with a fascinating history and diverse culture, has long been a top destination for inbound and outbound tourists. Each region and locality in Vietnam offers unique experiences. Among them, Hanoi, the thousand-year-old capital, stands out as a must-visit for those interested in exploring more about this country. Not only is Hanoi famous for its historical landmarks, but this city also has a diverse food and culture.
 

If you are looking to have an unforgettable experience in this dynamic city, here are the top 15 best activities to do during your visit. Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam, is a city that seamlessly blends ancient traditions with modern energy. No matter if you’re into culture, food, or history, this list of the top 15 best activities to do in Hanoi will help you make the most of your visit to Vietnam’s capital. Let’s dive in!

Top 15 best activities to do in Hanoi

1. Explore the Hanoi Old Quarter

The Old Quarter of Hanoi, known as Hanoi’s corporate district, has long been an attractive destination for tourists visiting the capital. Walking through the alleys, you will find a blend of French colonial buildings, traditional tube houses, local craft shops, and street food stalls.
 

Among the must-visit places, the ancient house at 87 Ma May is a well-preserved home that reflects Hanoi’s traditional architecture. Nearby, the Bach Ma Temple offers insight into the area’s rich spiritual history. To taste local life, you can visit Dong Xuan Market, where vendors sell fresh produce, textiles, and popular Vietnamese street food.

Source: Internet

2. Visit Hoa Lo Prison

Hoa Lo Prison, which preserves the memory of a period of arduous struggle for the Vietnamese people, is one of the most significant historical sites in Hanoi. Built in the 19th century during the French colonial period, this place held many revolutionary soldiers and has become a popular tourist attraction for both domestic and foreign tourists nowadays.
 

Entering Hoa Lo Prison, visitors will feel the somber atmosphere with solid stone walls, narrow cells and artifacts that realistically recreate the harsh life of prisoners. Stories of patriotism, perseverance and the indomitable spirit of revolutionary soldiers make this place a must-see destination for those who want to gain a deeper understanding of Vietnamese history.

Address: 1 Hoa Lo Street, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi

Opening Hours: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM every day (even holidays)

Price: 50,000 VND/ person

Source: Internet

3. Walking around the Temple of Literature

Known as the first university in Vietnam, the Temple of Literature, or Văn Miếu Quốc Tử Giám, is one of the most iconic landmarks in Vietnam's history. It also represents the country’s deep-rooted tradition of learning and respect for knowledge. If you come here, you will admire the ancient architecture, learn about the ancient education system and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere in the middle of Hanoi. Especially the doctoral steles, recognized by UNESCO as a "World Documentary Heritage" will give you insight into the legacy of Vietnamese scholars through the centuries.
 

Address: 58 Quoc Tu Giam Street, Dong Da District, Hanoi

Opening Hours:

• Summer (April – October): 7:30 AM – 5:30 PM

• Winter (November – March): 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Price:

• Adults: 70,000 VND per person

• Students & Children (under 15 years old): 35,000 VND per person

Source: Internet

4. Walk along Hoan Kiem Lake, The Huc Bridge and Ngoc Son temple

Hoan Kiem Lake is one of the most iconic landmarks in Hanoi. Right in the heart of the capital, Hoan Kiem Lake is not only ideal for a leisurely walk but also a lively center of cultural events and activities. Every weekend, this area becomes a pedestrian-only zone, helping you enjoy the lively atmosphere with street performances, folk games, and traditional art displays.
 

Walking around the lake, visitors can feel the harmony between the ancient beauty and the modern life of the capital. Constructions bearing the mark of history such as Turtle Tower, Ngoc Son Temple, or The Huc Bridge stand gracefully in the heart of the city.
 

Moreover, the walking area around Hoan Kiem Lake is a paradise for food lovers. Visitors can enjoy local specialties such as Trang Tien ice cream, crispy fried cakes, and rich, flavorful egg coffee. This vibrant space allows everyone to breathe in the fresh air, explore Hanoi’s unique culture, and create unforgettable memories.

Source: Khoitran1957

5. Explore the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology

If you’re passionate about exploring the culture, traditions, and daily life of Vietnam’s 54 ethnic groups, the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology is an ideal destination. More than just a place for preservation, research, and exhibition, this museum serves as a cultural bridge—connecting past and future generations as well as local and international visitors. 
 

Each exhibition area at the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology is designed with a separate theme and architectural style: Bronze Drum Hall, Architectural Garden and Kite Hall.

Bronze Drum Hall: With the design based on the shape of the bronze drum of the Dong Son civilization, this is an area displaying artifacts according to themes to recreate the picture about daily of 54 Vietnamese ethnic groups.

Outdoor Exhibition Area: With 10 distinct traditional structures, this area allows visitors to explore various ethnic housing models such as communal houses, stilt houses, tiled houses, etc. Each detail is designed and built to help visitors have a clear view of each characteristic in the daily life of ethnic people.

Kite Area: In addition to Vietnamese culture, the museum also displays artifacts with unique cultural features from Japan, Korea and Southeast Asian countries. The international cultural area at the museum also hosts art exhibitions, fostering cultural exchange and global integration.

Source: Internet

Address: Nguyen Van Huyen Street, Nghia Do, Cau Giay, Hanoi

Opening hours: 8:30 AM – 5:30 PM (Tuesday – Sunday)

Ticket prices:

• Adults: 40,000 VND

• Students: 20,000 VND

• Children under 6 years old: Free

6. Wander Around Train Street

In the middle of the bustling capital, Train Street is like a "Hidden gem" harmonizing daily life with the rhythmic passage of trains. It is not only a destination for those who love exploring but also a place that preserves stories about Hanoians’ generations. Formed during the French colonial period, this special street carries a unique charm that blends both ancient and modern, promising to give you the perfect backdrop for capturing unforgettable memories in Vietnam.

The best time to visit is early morning or evening when the street lights illuminate the area, bringing an enchanting atmosphere. However, Visitors should follow safety rules, as some areas may be temporarily closed by authorities for security and traffic reasons.

Source: Internet

7. Visit Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum

The Mausoleum of President Ho Chi Minh is one of the most sacred destinations in Hanoi, where the body of the great leader of the Vietnamese people is kept. Located in the historic Ba Dinh Square, where Uncle Ho read the Declaration of Independence in 1945, the mausoleum is not only a majestic architectural work but also a symbol of the people's gratitude and respect for him.
 

Entering the Mausoleum’s grounds, visitors will feel a solemn and tranquil atmosphere, with rows of green bamboo surrounding it, creating a sense of closeness and serenity. The mausoleum is built of solid granite, expressing the spirit of steadfastness and simplicity, true to the lifestyle of President Ho Chi Minh.
 

After visiting the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, visitors can walk around the grounds of the Presidential Palace, visit the Ho Chi Minh Stilt House - where he used to live and work, as well as the Ho Chi Minh Fish Pond, where schools of goldfish still swim in the water.
 

Address: 2 Hung Vuong, Ba Dinh District, Hanoi, Vietnam

Opening Hours: 7:30 AM – 10:30 AM (Tuesday to Thursday & Weekend)

Closed: Mondays and Fridays

Entrance Fee: Free of charge

Source: Internet

8.  Discover One Pillar Pagoda 

One Pillar Pagoda (Chùa Một Cột) is an iconic cultural and historical heritage site of Hanoi. Inspired by the lotus flower, the pagoda was built with a unique design that represents serenity and enlightenment in Buddhism.

One Pillar Pagoda is not only a significant spiritual site but also attracts visitors with its long-standing architectural and historical value. Stepping into the pagoda, you will have the chance to learn about the pagoda's origin, admire its distinctive architectural features, and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere in the heart of the capital.
 

Address: One Pillar Pagoda, Đội Cấn, Ba Đình, Hanoi, Vietnam

Opening Hours: 07:00 AM – 06:00 PM daily

Entrance Fee: Free of charge

Source: Internet

9. Take a tour of the Vietnam Women's Museum

The Vietnam Women's Museum is one of the famous museums in Hanoi, attracting hundreds of thousands of domestic and foreign visitors every year. The museum owns a collection of over 30,000 valuable documents and artifacts about Vietnamese women, associated with each historical period of the country's development.
 

There are 3 permanent exhibition areas in the museum:

Women in Family: Located on the 2nd floor of the museum, this area depicts the story of a woman's life in the stages of life: childhood, adulthood, marriage and becoming a mother and a wife. The role of women is shown through traditional rituals, customs and practices related to marriage, childbirth and family life.

Women in History: This exhibition highlights the role and great contributions of Vietnamese women in the resistance wars against foreign aggressors showcasing their qualities, determination, bravery and passion not only during wartime but also in modern life.
 

Women’s fashion: The exhibition, which is on the 4th floor, displays the diversity and richness of traditional costumes from different ethnic groups across Vietnam. You can admire the exquisite costumes, jewelry, makeup,... which reflect the cultural identity and unique craftsmanship of each region.

Source: Internet

Address: 36 Ly Thuong Kiet Street, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi, Vietnam.

Opening Hours: 08:00 AM – 05:00 PM daily.

Ticket Prices:

• Adults: 40,000 VND

• Students: 10,000 VND

• Children under 6 years old: Free

10. Experience the Night market and the Walking Street

Not just about the historical and cultural landmarks, Hanoi’s night market is also a must-visit for visitors. At this bustling market,  you will have a fantastic opportunity to savor local delicacies, unique souvenir shops, and fully experience the lively nightlife of Hanoi.
 

Nestled in the middle of the Old Quarter, the night market extends from Hang Dao to Hang Giay streets and opens from 6 pm to 11 pm on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays. With over 4,000 stalls, the market is a treasure trove of everything from trendy fashion and handmade crafts to tasty street food. This is also a place where visitors can enjoy traditional art performances and immerse themselves in the bustling atmosphere of Hanoi at night.

Address:   Stretches from Hang Dao Street to Dong Xuan Market in the Old Quarter.

Operating Hours:   Every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday from 6:00 PM to 11:00 PM.

Source: Internet

11. Take a stroll on Long Bien Bridge

Not just a bridge, Long Bien is considered by the Vietnamese people to be a "historical witness" of Hanoi. Built during the French colonial period in the early 20th century, this is the first steel bridge across the Red River, bearing the marks of French architecture. For over a century, Long Bien Bridge has stood as a silent witness to the nation's history, enduring both the turbulence of war and the transformation of Hanoi into a modern city.
 

When walking on the bridge at dawn or dusk, you can admire the peaceful scenery of the Red River and the daily life of people living along the river. Long Bien Bridge is also an ideal place for photographers and tourists who want to explore the old, nostalgic space of Hanoi.

Source: Internet

12. Enjoy the Cyclo ride

While Thailand is famous for its tuk-tuk, the cyclo is a vehicle that reflects the culture of Vietnam. A cyclo ride in Hanoi usually takes visitors past iconic landmarks like Hoan Kiem Lake, the Opera House, and the bustling streets of the Old Quarter. On the slow-moving cyclo, you will get a closer look at daily life, observing street vendors, roadside stalls, or nostalgic coffee shops.
 

Standard Rates: 100,000 - 200,000 VND

Source: Internet

13. Ride Minsk and Jeep Tours

Besides familiar vehicles such as motorbikes, buses or cyclos, exploring Hanoi by Jeep or Minsk offers a completely different perspective of Vietnam’s capital. This is an ideal choice for those who want to feel the rhythm of Hanoi life in an authentic, liberal and adventurous way.
 

Minsk Motorbike Tour

If you’re a rugged traveler, then Minsk is a perfect way for you to explore Hanoi. Riding a Minsk, you’ll wind through tiny alleys, browse traditional markets, grab a bite of hot street food, and uncover Hanoi’s hidden spots.
 

Jeep Tour

The vintage Jeep will take you through busy streets and past some of Hanoi’s most iconic landmarks, including the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, Long Bien Bridge, and the Hanoi Opera House. In this open-top vehicle, you can feel the refreshing breeze, take in the city's historic architecture, and see Hanoi from a fresh perspective.

Source: Internet

14.  Try Egg Cafe

In addition to the stunning landscapes and diverse cuisine, Vietnam is also famous for coffee. With its unique taste and special brewing process, Vietnamese coffee has conquered many coffee lovers around the world. Especially, egg coffee with its creamy texture and attractive flavor, will offer you a whole new perspective on Vietnamese cuisine.

Source: Internet

15. Watch the Water Puppet Show

This is one of the most unique traditional art forms in Vietnam. With a history of more than 1000 years, water puppetry has been recognized by UNESCO as an intangible cultural heritage. More than just entertainment, it reflects Vietnamese culture, bringing to life age-old customs and folk tales that have been passed down for generations.

Where to see water puppet shows in Hanoi?

Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre:

Address:    57B Dinh Tien Hoang, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi

Ticket prices:

• VIP seats (front row, closest to the stage): 200,000 VND/person.

• Standard seats (second row): 150,000 VND/person.

• Regular seats (third row): 100,000 VND/person.

Note: There is an additional fee of 20,000 VND for using a camera and 60,000 VND for using a camcorder.

Vietnam Water Puppet Theatre

Address:     361 Truong Chinh, Thanh Xuan District, Hanoi.

Ticket prices:    80,000 – 160,000 VND/person, depending on the performance.

Lotus Water Puppet Theatre

Address:     16 Le Thai To Street, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi

Ticket Prices:

• VIP Ticket: 100,000 VND

• Standard Ticket: 80,000 VND

Source: Internet

Conclusion

With its rich history, diverse culture and cuisine, Hanoi promises to bring visitors countless opportunities to explore this city. From strolling through the Old Quarter to enjoying a peaceful moment by the West Lake, every part of the capital city has its distinct charm. Whether you are a history buff, a foodie or just looking for local experiences, Hanoi always has something special to explore. 

We hope this list of the top 15 best activities to do in Hanoi will help you plan a memorable trip. So, pack your bags and get ready to enjoy yourself in the beauty of Hanoi!