Discover the timeless charm of Hanoi on this carefully designed full-day journey that combines the city’s rich history, vibrant culture, authentic local life, and world-famous cuisine. As one of the most enriching Hanoi tours, this experience takes travellers from the bustling atmosphere of Long Bien Market at dawn to the tranquil beauty of Hoan Kiem Lake, revealing both the traditional and modern faces of Vietnam’s thousand-year-old capital.
Explore iconic landmarks including the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum Complex, One Pillar Pagoda, and the Temple of Literature while gaining fascinating insights into Vietnam’s history and cultural heritage. Savour authentic Hanoi flavours with a traditional Pho breakfast, a delicious Vietnamese buffet lunch at Sen Restaurant, and the city’s legendary Egg Coffee.
The experience continues with a visit to the Vietnam National Museum of History, a traditional cyclo ride through the charming Old Quarter, and concludes with a captivating Water Puppet Show, one of Vietnam’s most unique cultural performances. Perfect for first-time visitors, this comprehensive tour showcases the very best of Hanoi in just one unforgettable day
As the first light of day gently illuminates Hanoi, Long Bien Bridge reveals its timeless beauty in a peaceful and authentic atmosphere. The historic steel structure stretches gracefully across the Red River, while the golden sunrise paints the sky and reflects on the calm waters below. Early morning is the most enchanting time to visit, as local cyclists, vendors, and commuters begin their daily routines, creating a vivid portrait of Hanoi life. The cool breeze, soft sunlight, and panoramic views of the riverbanks make Long Bien Bridge a favourite spot for photographers and travellers seeking a genuine glimpse into the soul of Vietnam’s capital.
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Duration: 06:00 AM – 06:00 PM
06:00 – 06:30 | Hotel Pick-up
Meet your guide and driver at the hotel and begin your exploration of Hanoi, the thousand-year-old capital of Vietnam.
06:30 – 07:30 | Long Bien Market
Visit Long Bien Market, Hanoi’s largest wholesale market, where local traders gather before sunrise to buy and sell fresh fruits, vegetables, flowers, and agricultural products. Experience the authentic atmosphere of local life and discover a side of Hanoi rarely seen by tourists.
07:30 – 08:00 | Hoan Kiem Lake
Transfer to the city centre and enjoy a relaxing walk around Hoan Kiem Lake, the symbolic heart of Hanoi. Learn about the legendary tale of the Returned Sword while admiring the peaceful scenery and historic surroundings.
08:00 – 09:00 | Pho Hanoi Breakfast
Enjoy an authentic Hanoi breakfast at a local restaurant. Taste the world-famous Pho Hanoi, a traditional noodle soup renowned for its aromatic broth, tender beef, and delicate rice noodles.
09:00 – 10:30 | Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum Complex & One Pillar Pagoda
Visit the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum Complex, including the Presidential Palace, Ho Chi Minh’s Stilt House, and the tranquil fish pond. Continue to the iconic One Pillar Pagoda, one of Vietnam’s most distinctive Buddhist monuments.
10:30 – 11:45 | Temple of Literature
Explore the Temple of Literature, Vietnam’s first university, founded in 1070. Discover its ancient courtyards, stone steles, traditional architecture, and the country’s long-standing educational heritage.
12:00 – 13:30 | Vietnamese Buffet Lunch at Sen Restaurant
Enjoy a sumptuous buffet lunch at Sen Restaurant, one of Hanoi’s most popular dining venues, featuring a wide selection of Vietnamese regional specialties, seafood, desserts, and seasonal fruits.
13:30 – 14:15 | Hanoi Egg Coffee Experience at Trung Coffee
Relax with Hanoi’s famous Egg Coffee at Trung Coffee. Learn about the history of this unique beverage while enjoying its rich and creamy flavour.
14:30 – 15:45 | Vietnam National Museum of History
Visit the Vietnam National Museum of History and explore fascinating exhibits showcasing Vietnam’s development from prehistoric times through various dynasties and historical periods.
16:00 – 17:00 | Cyclo Ride Through Hanoi Old Quarter
Experience Hanoi from a traditional cyclo as you travel through the bustling streets of the Old Quarter. Observe daily life, colonial architecture, local markets, and vibrant street scenes.
17:00 – 18:00 | Water Puppet Show
Conclude the day with a traditional Water Puppet Show, a unique Vietnamese performing art dating back more than 1,000 years. Enjoy colourful performances accompanied by live traditional music.
18:00 | Tour Ends
Transfer back to your hotel. End of services.
We went on a private trip to Vietnam and Cambodia, the whole trip plan was organized for us by the Impress Travel Company from Vietnam, the company did an amazing job, the whole trip was organized in a wonderful way with an amazing match between the various parties, their choices were correct and the quality of the hotels chosen were very high quality and it is important to note that the price was low in comparison To other agencies, thanks to Impress Travel and especially to Daniel who was tolerant and open to changes and organized the route for us.
Impress travel were amazing. Did my bookings with Daniel for our tour of Vietnam and I must say Daniel was very professional and prompt with his services. All the arrangement, plans, pick-up & drop-off services, hotels, vehicles, sightseeing tours and guides were spot on and excellent. Did 4 nights Hanoi, 1 night Hà Long Bay cruise, 3 nights Hoian, 4 nights Saigon and 1 night in Can Tho. It was totally awesome. Every part of the journey was superbly arranged and planned. I will highly recommend Impress Travel for anyone interested in visiting Vietnam. Very organized and reliable!
I booked with Impress Travel in July. My contact person was Tommy Thang. He is an amazing person. He was very helpful. He changed my program twice for me. Very accommodating!
We started our holiday in the north (Sapa)of Vietnam and travelled down to HCMC.
The tour was fantastic, Tommy's arrangements were to the"T".
I will always use them if I have to visit the area again and recommend them to one and all.
Thank you once again Mr.Tommy and the Impress Team.
Sulaiman Pochee
Great value for money with 4 stars hotel accommodation for 4 couples. The tour guide has been very helpful and brought us to amazing places in Sapa. We want to thanks Thuy the tour guide and especially Mark from Impress Travel for his great service and assurance throughout our trip. We’ll definitely use his service for other tour packages in other parts of Vietnam.
This is the second time we travel to Vietnam with IMPRESS Travel. First time, we booked our holiday to Hanoi, Halong Bay & Sapa during Dec 2018 with Impress.
Second time, we travel to Hoi An, Hue & Danang (Central Vietnam) during Jan 2019.
My friends & I are very glad & happy with all the hotels stay in Central Vietnam, the meals provided are delicious. We are greatly appreciated with all the tour arrangement by Tommy & his team (tour guide).
Especially, Mr. NHAT C.V. He is helpful, cheerful, knowledgeable and very professional. He always volunteer to take a nice pictures for six of us (group) .
We enjoyed our holiday with Impress travel. We will definitely come back to Vietnam again with Impress
Located in the centre of Hanoi, Hoan Kiem Lake is one of the city’s most iconic landmarks. Early morning is the perfect time to experience the lake’s tranquil beauty before the city becomes busy. As the sun rises, the peaceful waters reflect ancient trees, historic temples, and the elegant red bridge leading to Ngoc Son Temple. Visitors can observe local residents practising tai chi, jogging along the lakeside, and enjoying the fresh morning air. The atmosphere offers a unique glimpse into Hanoi’s daily life, making Hoan Kiem Lake an essential stop on any Hanoi city tour.
Photo is copied and sourced from (https://www.vietjetair.com/)
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Best Time to Visit | 05:30 AM – 08:00 AM |
| Sunrise Experience | Beautiful reflections on the lake and soft golden light |
| What to See | Ngoc Son Temple, The Huc Bridge, Turtle Tower, ancient trees |
| Local Activities | Tai Chi, jogging, dancing, morning exercises |
| Photography | Sunrise views, local life, historic landmarks |
| Atmosphere | Peaceful, fresh, authentic Hanoi lifestyle |
| Recommended Duration | 30–60 minutes |
| Nearby Attractions | Hanoi Old Quarter, St. Joseph’s Cathedral, French Quarter |
| Best For | Culture lovers, photographers, first-time visitors |
| Highlight | Witness Hanoi awakening with locals around the city’s most famous lake |
The Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum is one of Hanoi’s most important historical and cultural landmarks. Located in Ba Dinh Square, the mausoleum preserves the body of President Ho Chi Minh, the founding father of modern Vietnam. Every morning, visitors from around the world come to pay their respects and learn about Vietnam’s history. Surrounded by beautiful gardens, the Presidential Palace, and Ho Chi Minh’s Stilt House, the site offers a meaningful insight into the life and legacy of Vietnam’s most revered leader. Visiting in the morning provides cooler weather, shorter queues, and the opportunity to witness the solemn flag-raising atmosphere in Ba Dinh Square.
Photo is copied and sourced from (https://buulong.com.vn//)
| Information | Details |
|---|---|
| Opening Days | Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Saturday & Sunday |
| Opening Hours (Summer: Apr–Oct) | 07:30 AM – 10:30 AM |
| Opening Hours (Winter: Nov–Mar) | 08:00 AM – 11:00 AM |
| Best Time to Visit | 07:30 AM – 09:00 AM (fewer crowds and cooler weather) |
| Entrance Fee to Mausoleum | Free of charge |
| Ho Chi Minh Museum Ticket | Approximately VND 40,000/adult foreign visitor |
| Presidential Palace & Stilt House Area | Usually included in the historical site ticket |
| Duration of Visit | 1.5 – 2 hours |
| Dress Code | Long trousers/skirts, covered shoulders, respectful attire |
| Photography | Allowed outside; strictly prohibited inside the Mausoleum |
| Closed Period | Usually closed annually for maintenance (around June–August, subject to official schedule) |
| Nearest Attraction | One Pillar Pagoda (2-minute walk), Presidential Palace, Ho Chi Minh Museum |
| Travel Style | Historical, Cultural, Educational Tourism |
Photo is copied and sourced from (https://vtcnews.vn/)
The traditional cyclo is one of Hanoi’s most iconic cultural symbols and a unique way to explore the city’s historic charm. Sitting comfortably in a cyclo, visitors can leisurely travel through the bustling streets of the Old Quarter, admire French colonial architecture, and witness the vibrant rhythm of local life from a different perspective. Unlike modern transportation, the cyclo allows travellers to slow down and fully appreciate Hanoi’s atmosphere, hidden corners, and daily traditions. For many international visitors, a cyclo ride is more than just sightseeing—it is a nostalgic journey through the heart and soul of Vietnam’s capital. This timeless experience continues to be one of the most memorable highlights of any Hanoi city tour.
