Looking for fun things to do in Hanoi? Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam, is bustling with exciting activities and attractions for visitors of all ages. From exploring ancient temples to savoring delicious street food, there’s something for everyone to enjoy in this vibrant city. Let’s dive into the top things to do in Hanoi with VTJ!
25+ BEST Things to Do in Hanoi, Vietnam
Check out the Old Quarter
Exploring the Old Quarter is one of the top things to do in Hanoi. The Old Quarter, also known as the Hoan Kiem District, is the bustling center of Hanoi and a favorite spot for tourists.
One of the most exciting activities here is crossing the busy streets, which can feel like playing a game! With its colonial buildings and French influences, the Old Quarter offers plenty to explore, from hidden pagodas to historic landmarks like the Long Bien Bridge and Banana Plantations.
Visit Hoan Kiem Lake
There are many places to visit in Hanoi, such as the Old Quarter and Hoan Kiem Lake. Visiting Hoan Kiem Lake is one of the iconic things to do in Hanoi. It should be your first stop when you get to the city. Situated between the Old Quarter and the French Quarter, the lake is a peaceful spot in the middle of the busy city.
Take a Photo at Lake Tay Ho (West Lake)
Hanoi tourist attractions, like the West Lake, draw visitors from all over the world. It’s peaceful around there, and you often see local people walking or exercising.
There are also lots of cafes, restaurants, and hotels near West Lake. And if you visit, you can go see Tran Quoc Pagoda, which is the oldest Buddhist temple in Hanoi, right by the lake’s southeast shore.
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Visit Ngoc Son Temple
The biggest draw of the lake is Ngoc Son Temple, found on an island in the middle. This temple, also called the Temple of the Jade Mountain, is the most popular one in Hanoi. It’s on Jade Island and honors General Tran Hung Dao, who won against the Mongols in the 13th century. Crossing the beautiful red Huc Bridge is the way to reach it.
Shop At Dong Xuan Market
Shopping at Dong Xuan Market is one of the classic things to do in Hanoi. Head there for souvenirs, clothes, and more. This market, in the Old Quarter since 1889, is massive and has everything you need. Don’t miss the lively food market on the ground floor with its fruits, veggies, meats, and fish.
Visit St. Joseph’s Cathedral
In the Old Quarter, there’s a church called St. Joseph’s Cathedral, also known as The Big Church. It was built by the French and looks like Notre Dame in Paris. You should go inside to see its beautiful gothic architecture.
Visit Hanoi Weekend Night Market
In Hanoi, the weekend market is full of energy and excitement from Friday to Sunday, starting at 7 pm and stretching from Hang Dao Street to Dong Xuan Market. It’s a great opportunity to practice bargaining and taste some delicious Vietnamese street food.
Have A Drink At The Hanoi Social Club
For nighttime activities in Hanoi, consider visiting the Hanoi Social Club. It’s located in a beautiful old house and offers delicious food and drinks, including many vegetarian options. Plus, it’s a favorite spot for breakfast too!
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Take A Free Walking Tour
The Hanoi Free Walking Tours will lead you through the Old Quarter to Hoan Kiem Lake and Ngoc Son Temple. You’ll even get to try ice cream and visit the walking street and night market. It’s a fantastic way to start your adventure in Hanoi.
Take A Stroll Through The French Quarter
Situated to the south and east of Hoan Kiem Lake, the French Quarter offers a charming walk among buildings from the early 20th century, with Art Deco styles and some modernism from the 1930s influenced by various cultures.
Visit the Hoa Lo Prison Museum
The Maison Central, also called the Hoa Lo Prison, was nicknamed the Hanoi Hilton during the Vietnam War, housing American POWs like Senator John McCain. History enthusiasts will find it fascinating to visit this site in Hanoi. Originally, before the Vietnam War, it was used by the French government to imprison Vietnamese Revolutionaries.
Catch a Show at Hanoi Opera House
The Hanoi Opera House, located in the French Quarter, shows the influence of the French occupation with its design resembling the Paris Opera House, Palais Garnier. It’s a stunning example of colonial architecture in Hanoi. If you want to experience some culture during your visit, consider booking a night at the opera to enjoy Vietnamese Opera or ballet.
Visit the National Museum of Vietnamese History
Located in the French Quarter, the National Museum of Vietnamese History is housed in a former school from the French Colonial period. It features five different sections with architecture resembling a French villa or Vietnamese palace. The museum displays artifacts from the Stone Age to the Vietnamese Revolution, with over 200,000 pieces showcasing Vietnamese history.
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Explore Vietnamese Women’s Museum
The Vietnamese Women’s Museum is now one of Hanoi’s favorite spots, focusing on the history and lives of Vietnamese women. It highlights their roles in wars, family life, and as street vendors, with 30,000 pieces on display depicting women’s roles in family, fashion, and history.
Visit Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum
Hanoi attractions include the Temple of Literature and the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum. A must-see in Hanoi is the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, where President Ho Chi Minh is preserved in a glass tomb. Dress modestly with long sleeves and pants when visiting, and no photos are allowed inside. Nearby is the Ho Chi Minh Museum, showcasing his personal items and revolutionary work through films and documents.
Visit the Military History Museum
Military History Museum, where you can explore military equipment and vehicles from the Vietnam War. This museum highlights Vietnam’s victories over the Americans and French, showcasing tanks, airplanes like the Soviet MiG fighter, and even wreckage from a B52 Bomber.
You’ll also find a model of the Cu Chi Tunnels, important in defeating the Americans, along with displays of wartime weaponry.
Visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site of The Imperial Citadel of Thang Long
The Imperial Citadel, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, was Vietnam’s political center for over 1300 years until 1810 when the capital moved to Hue. It endured damage during French colonial rule and served as a prison during the Japanese occupation in 1945. Later, it became the Ministry of Imperial Defense headquarters in 1954. Today, visitors can explore its restored buildings and gates, including the Kinh Thien Palace, North Gate, and Princess Pagoda.
Visit The Temple Of Literature
Visiting the Temple of Literature is one of the educational things to do in Hanoi. The Temple of Literature was Vietnam’s earliest university, teaching Confucianism, literature, and poetry. Now, it honors famous scholars with monuments and artifacts. Its Vietnamese-style architecture is impressive, and there are many interesting things to see.
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See A Water Puppet Show
The Water Puppet Show is a must-see cultural attraction in Hanoi. Be sure to reserve tickets in advance. a water puppet show, A top activity, especially for families. This ancient art dates back centuries and features puppets performing on water.
The graceful movements, live music, and dark auditorium create a magical experience. Secure skip-the-line tickets for the best seats and timing. The Municipal Water Puppet Theatre hosts five daily shows, or you can book a Water Puppets Tour, which includes Vietnam street food and views of Hoan Kiem Lake at night.
Indulge In Hanoi’s Street Food
Trying local street food is definitely one of the must-do things in Hanoi. Many people worry about eating street food, and they have a point. If it’s not cooked well, it can be risky. Our advice is to look for busy vendors with lots of locals—they usually serve fresh food. If you’re still unsure, try a Street Food Tour by Motorbike.
Try Hanoi’s Coffee
Hanoi is famous for its Egg Coffee, which is not as unusual as it sounds. They mix egg yolk with condensed milk until it’s frothy, then pour it over espresso for a sweet and creamy drink. You can even have it with ice for a refreshing treat.
Visit Perfume Pagoda (Chua Huong)
A popular day trip from Hanoi is to visit Perfume Pagoda, also known as Chua Huong. It’s a series of Buddhist temples built into limestone cliffs. Inside the caves, stalagmites and stalactites draw pilgrims and tourists seeking good luck.
Visit One Pillar Pagoda
Vietnamese people love their legends, and a popular one is about the One Pillar Pagoda. Legend has it that an emperor, who had no heir, dreamt of meeting a goddess named Avalokiteshvara. She gave him a baby boy resting on a lotus flower.
Emperor Ly Thai wanted to build the pagoda to resemble the lotus blossom, which is why it was constructed on a single pillar. The lotus symbolizes enlightenment in Buddhism. Today, the wooden pagoda is supported by a concrete pillar, as the original wooden one was destroyed by the French.
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Make Your Own Pottery at Bat Trang Ceramic Village
Bat Trang, a traditional village near Hanoi, attracts both locals and tourists! At the stores in Bat Trang, you’ll find ceramic products in various shapes, styles, and colors. Most of these items are made by family businesses, and they are reasonably priced.
Find a Rooftop Bar
A great way to experience Vietnam’s capital is by visiting a rooftop bar for a drink. Hanoi’s busy streets can feel overwhelming, especially at night when the city comes alive with bright lights and bustling traffic trails. Whether you’re seeking a romantic setting or a casual hangout with friends, enjoying the city’s stunning night views from above is a must.
With many rooftop bars to choose from, you can relax in a lounge atmosphere, listen to music, sip on delicious cocktails, and take in the panoramic views of Hanoi all around you. So why not grab a drink at a rooftop café and admire Hanoi from a bird’s-eye view?
How To Get Around Hanoi
You can explore the city using motorcycle taxis, which are affordable and easy to find. For longer trips, you can check bus, boat, and train schedules online through websites like Bookaway or 12Go.
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In conclusion, there is no shortage of things to do in Hanoi. Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or an adventure seeker, Hanoi has plenty to offer to make your visit unforgettable. Don’t forget to follow other posts by VTJ to find more useful information!
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