What to See and Do in a Hanoi Tour 2025 Like a Local

Summary Bucket List: What to See and Do in Hanoi Like a Local

No.	Activity	Location
1	Explore the Temple of Literature	Van Mieu – Quoc Tu Giam
2	Attend Flag Ceremony & Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum	Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, Ba Dinh Square
3	Visit the One Pillar Pagoda	One Pillar Pagoda, Ngoc Ha
4	Join Night Light Tour at Thang Long Citadel	Imperial Citadel of Thang Long (Fri–Sat evenings)
5	Experience “Sacred Night” Show at Hoa Lo Prison	Hoa Lo Prison (evening show)
6	Take Vietnamese Calligraphy Class	Hanoi Calligraphy Center, 60 Doi Can
7	Practice Morning Tai Chi	Hoan Kiem Lake promenade
8	Watch Live Hau Dong Ritual	Tay Ho Palace or Ly Duong Temple
9	Visit Creative Art Hubs	Cama Gallery; Zone 6; Manzi; ArtBox
10	Explore Traditional Villages	Bat Trang; Van Phuc; Duong Lam
11	Hang Out on Ta Hien Beer Street	Ta Hien Street, Old Quarter
12	Shop at Old Quarter Night Market	Hang Ngang–Dong Xuan Streets
13	Go on Late-Night Food Tour	Tong Duy Tan Street
14	Ride Night Double-Decker Bus	Opera House → Mausoleum → Long Bien Bridge
15	Sip Cocktails at West Lake Skybars	The Summit; Octo; Lighthouse
16	Taste Pho bo tai lan	Pho Thin, 13 Lo Duc
17	Try Pho cuon	Ngu Xa area
18	Enjoy Bun cha	24 Le Van Huu
19	Slurp Bun oc nguoi	Near O Quan Chuong Gate
20	Savor Cha ca La Vong	14 Cha Ca Street
21	Drink Egg Coffee	Giang Café, 39 Nguyen Huu Huan
22	Eat Trang Tien Ice Cream	35 Trang Tien Street
23	Paddle & Picnic at West Lake	West Lake; Ecopark; Yen So Park
24	Join Perfume Pagoda or Soc Son Festival	Perfume Pagoda; Soc Son
25	Admire Vietnamese Fine Arts	National Museum of Fine Arts, 66 Nguyen Thai Hoc
26	Discover Hanoi Museum Exhibits	Hanoi Museum, Nguyen Van Cu Avenue
27	Explore Ho Chi Minh Museum	19 Ngoc Ha
28	Watch Water Puppet Show	57B Dinh Tien Hoang
29	Attend “The Quia·ntessence of Tonkin” Performance	Various Old Quarter venues

Timeless Landmarks to Visit in Hanoi

Temple of Literature – Vietnam’s First University

Step into the serene courtyard of the Temple of Literature, known locally as Văn Miếu – Quốc Tử Giám. Founded in 1070, it’s not only a peaceful oasis in the heart of the city, but also the site of the country’s very first university. Here, you’ll admire classic Confucian architecture, ancient stone steles, and poetic calligraphy pavilions. It’s the embodiment of Hanoi’s reverence for learning and tradition — a must for every traveler curating their Hanoi bucket list.

Address: 58 Quoc Tu Giam Street, Van Mieu – Quoc Tu Giam Ward, Dong Da District, Hanoi

Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and the Flag Ceremony

At the break of dawn and again at 9:00 PM each day, Ba Dinh Square transforms into a solemn gathering place as the national flag is raised or lowered in silence. Visiting the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, where the founding father of modern Vietnam rests, is a moment that merges respect, reflection, and deep emotion. It’s one of the most culturally meaningful things to see in Hanoi, whether you’re on a short visit or a longer stay.

Address: 1 Hung Vuong Street, Dien Bien Ward, Ba Dinh District, Hanoi

One Pillar Pagoda – A Symbol of Vietnamese Spirit

Just a short walk from the mausoleum stands the One Pillar Pagoda, a tiny yet iconic structure dating back to 1049. Built to resemble a lotus rising from the water, this unique Buddhist pagoda sits on a single stone pillar surrounded by a tranquil lotus pond. Rich in legend and symbolism, it’s a spiritual gem on any list of what to see and do in Hanoi Vietnam.

Address: Chua Mot Cot Street, Ba Dinh District, Hanoi (within the Ho Chi Minh Complex)

Hanoi Opera House, The Huc Bridge & Hoan Kiem Lake

You haven’t truly experienced Hanoi until you’ve strolled through the neoclassical façade of the Hanoi Opera House, crossed the vivid red The Huc Bridge, and gazed into the waters of Hoan Kiem Lake, where legend says a golden turtle returned a king’s sword. These locations are not just photogenic — they are beloved daily escapes for locals and the heart of weekend festivities. It’s where architecture, mythology, and community life converge.

• Opera House Address: 1 Trang Tien Street, Phan Chu Trinh Ward, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi
• Hoan Kiem Lake Area: Central Hoan Kiem District, bordered by Đinh Tiên Hoàng – Hàng Khay – Lê Thái Tổ streets

Immersive Cultural Experiences

For those seeking more than sightseeing, Hanoi offers a chance to dive deep into its cultural soul.

Learn Vietnamese Calligraphy in a Local Workshop

Get ready to dip your brush into Vietnam’s poetic heart. At calligraphy centers like 60 Doi Can, you’ll learn how to hold the brush, trace traditional strokes, and even create your own Tet blessing. This 90-minute class is a meaningful way to understand the artistic and philosophical roots of Vietnamese writing.

Watch Traditional Water Puppetry at Thang Long Theater

Still wondering what is there to see and do in Hanoi? Don’t miss a performance of múa rối nước — Vietnam’s legendary water puppetry. Head to the Thang Long Water Puppet Theater (57B Đinh Tiên Hoàng) to watch lacquered wooden puppets dance atop water while musicians play live folk music. It’s storytelling, music, and culture all in one unforgettable show.

Witness a Real Hầu Đồng Ritual – Vietnam’s Spirit World Unveiled

This is no ordinary performance. Hầu Đồng, a practice rooted in the Đạo Mẫu spiritual tradition, is a stunning, sacred ritual of transformation, music, incense, and costumes. Held in temples like Phủ Tây Hồ, it reveals the connection between human and divine in Vietnamese belief. For cultural travelers, this is Hanoi at its most profound.

Join a Fashion Tour through Hanoi’s Artisan Villages

Head out to Vạn Phúc Silk Village or bespoke tailor studios in the Old Quarter, where you can observe traditional weaving or even join a workshop on hand-dyed textiles. These fashion tours are the perfect blend of style, sustainability, and cultural storytelling — a true hidden gem when discovering what to do and see in Hanoi Vietnam.

Hanoi by Night: A Different City Awaits

Stroll Through the Old Quarter, Phung Hung & Ta Hien Street

Start your evening walking through Phung Hung mural street, then turn into the buzzing Ta Hien — famously known as “Beer Street.” Grab a cold Bia Hơi, sit on a tiny stool, and let the rhythm of live acoustic music or a pop-up DJ soundtrack your evening.

Join a Late-Night Food Tour at Tong Duy Tan

This street doesn’t sleep. At Tong Duy Tan, you’ll taste some of Hanoi’s most beloved night dishes: chicken noodle salad (phở gà trộn), pork rib porridge (cháo sườn), and steamed herbal chicken (gà tần). Locals love it, and so will your tastebuds.

Sip Cocktails Above the City at West Lake’s Rooftop Bars

For a panoramic close to your evening, head up to skybars like The Summit or Octo overlooking West Lake. Whether you want a quiet sunset or a chic nightlife scene, these rooftops offer spectacular views of Hanoi’s skyline.

Unwind with a Traditional Spa Experience

After a day of walking and eating, nothing beats a Vietnamese-style massage. Treat yourself at a local Hanoi spa — whether it’s a deep herbal treatment or foot reflexology, these are perfect for relaxing before your next adventure.

What to Eat: Authentic Flavors in Every Bite

Must-Try Dishes in Hanoi

Dish	Where to Try	Estimated Price
Pho Thin	13 Lo Duc	60,000 VND
Bun cha	Hang Quat, 24 Le Van Huu	40,000–60,000 VND
Bun oc nguoi	O Quan Chuong	35,000 VND
Cha ca La Vong	14 Cha Ca	175,000 VND
Pho cuon	Ngu Xa (Huong Mai, Hung Ben)	45,000–70,000 VND
Egg Coffee	Giang Café, Nguyen Huu Huan	35,000 VND
Trang Tien Ice Cream	35 Trang Tien	12,000–15,000 VND

Explore Hanoi’s Night Food Streets

Hang Buom Food Street is where East meets West — think Vietnamese skewers, dim sum, and sweet soups. Nearby, Hoan Kiem’s Nộm alley offers savory dried beef salads, perfect for snacking between stops.

Travel Easily Between Culinary Hotspots with Mass Transit

Want to try all of these? Don’t worry — Hanoi’s growing mass transportation system makes food-hopping a breeze. Jump on the BRT or metro (Cát Linh – Hà Đông Line) to explore the city’s flavors without the hassle.

Active Outdoors & Quick Day Trips

Sometimes, the best way to experience Hanoi is not through museums or pagodas — it’s through motion, wind on your face, and a splash of water! If you’re craving something active or planning the best day trip from Hanoi, these local outdoor gems are perfect for you.

Paddleboarding on West Lake and Biking Along Thanh Nien

Start your morning the Hanoian way: paddling across West Lake (Hồ Tây) at sunrise. With golden light bouncing off the water and the city skyline slowly coming alive, it’s the most peaceful and scenic workout in town. After that, rent a bike and cruise the Thanh Nien causeway, which slices through the lake and connects Truc Bach and West Lake — a route locals adore.

Picnic Escapes: Yen So Park and Ecopark

Need greenery and quiet? Yen So Park (Gamuda) and Ecopark offer sprawling lawns, tree-lined paths, and rental bikes — perfect for families or couples looking to unwind. These parks are easily accessible by Grab, taxi, or metro and make for a relaxing urban escape.

Ride a Speed Boat Along the Red River

For a thrilling alternative to the usual sightseeing, rent a speed boat tour on the Red River. Skim past banana groves, floating villages, and even catch views of the Long Bien Bridge from below. It’s a rare perspective that few tourists get to see, and a hidden treasure for anyone seeking a more adrenaline-fueled adventure.

Try Freediving in West Lake

Yes, you read that right — freediving in Hanoi is a thing! Several local operators now offer training and guided sessions in the deeper zones of West Lake. If you’re an experienced diver or just curious about breath-hold exploration, this is one of the most unique water-based activities in the capital.

Museums, Arts & Creative Hubs

Hanoi’s cultural depth goes far beyond temples. This city is a living archive of resistance, art, philosophy, and imagination. If you’re searching for what to see and do in Hanoi that feeds your curiosity, these spaces will leave a lasting impression.

Vietnam Military History Museum

Located near Lenin Park, this museum showcases tanks, fighter jets, and war memorabilia from Vietnam’s many resistance wars. Get up close with the legendary MIG-21 and learn about Vietnam’s military resilience. The outdoor aircraft garden is a favorite photo spot.

Address: 28A Dien Bien Phu Street, Ba Dinh District

Vietnam National Museum of Fine Arts

This museum is a visual feast: lacquer paintings, wood carvings, and wartime sculptures that tell the story of Vietnam through creative expression. It’s a quiet gem for anyone who wants to explore art deeply rooted in survival and identity.

Address: 66 Nguyen Thai Hoc Street, Ba Dinh District

Ho Chi Minh Museum – Symbol of National Spirit

Shaped like a white lotus, this museum takes you through the life, travels, and revolutionary legacy of Ho Chi Minh. Spiral staircases, historical documents, and symbolic architecture come together in this powerful national landmark.

Address: 19 Ngoc Ha Street, Ba Dinh District

Creative Hubs: Manzi, Zone 6, and Art Box

For something contemporary, head to Manzi, Zone 6, or Art Box. These community-run art spaces host everything from experimental art exhibitions to paper craft workshops and live music nights. Want to meet Hanoi’s young creative minds? This is where they gather.

Bucket List for Hanoi Youth Vibes

If you’re a solo traveler, digital nomad, or just someone who wants to feel the city pulse under your feet, this is the thing to do in Ha Noi. Here’s how to soak in youth energy and live the local lifestyle over 72 hours.

City Walks & Night Tours

Stroll around Hoan Kiem Lake and lose yourself in the maze of the 36 Old Streets. Then join the evening tour of the Imperial Citadel of Thang Long with mapping projections or visit Hoa Lo Prison for the “Sacred Night” audio-light experience.

Hanoi Night City Tour – Double-Decker Bus

Catch the cool breeze and wide-angle views of Hanoi’s landmarks aboard a night tour bus. These open-top rides pass through the city’s lit-up icons like the Opera House, Ba Dinh Square, and beyond.

Couple Experiences: Wedding & Honeymoon Snapshots

Nothing says romantic like an old-Hanoi photoshoot at Văn Miếu, Trấn Quốc Pagoda, or vintage tramlines. Impress Travel offers customizable wedding and honeymoon packages for couples looking to celebrate love with timeless charm.

72-Hour Living Like a Local

Start your day with SUP, snack on sticky rice or iced green tea, grab street food at Tong Duy Tan, and chase the sunset at West Lake. This is Hanoi’s youth rhythm — fast, flavorful, and full of moments worth remembering.

Wedding, Romance & Honeymoon Tours in Hanoi

This city is brimming with poetic backdrops and intimate experiences, and Impress Travel curates unforgettable journeys for couples.

Traditional Vietnamese Wedding Experience

Experience a local-style wedding ritual at ancient temples or pagodas. Dress in áo dài, take part in incense rituals, and enjoy blessings in a setting filled with tradition and meaning. It’s ideal for vow renewals or culture lovers looking to do something truly special.

“Old Hanoi” Wedding Photoshoot

Stroll hand-in-hand through Hanoi’s French Quarter, board a vintage tram, or pose beside ivy-covered yellow walls of the Old Quarter. Our photographers know the best golden-hour spots, making it picture-perfect for your pre-wedding shoot.

Impress Travel’s Honeymoon Package

Relax with a customized honeymoon experience that includes floral room décor, a private city tour, couples’ spa treatments, and a romantic dinner on a rooftop with skyline views. Your love deserves to be celebrated in style.

Bonus: Explore Hanoi Like Never Before with Impress Travel’s Cultural Tours

For travelers seeking a well-rounded, authentic, and guided experience, Impress Travel proudly offers two thoughtfully designed itineraries. These Hanoi tours include full cultural immersion, traditional meals, must-see attractions — and of course, convenient hotel pickup and drop-off for a seamless journey.

Option 1: One-Day Cultural Tour of Hanoi

Perfect for first-time visitors or those short on time, this tour delivers a full spectrum of experiences — from sacred ceremonies to street food classics, from imperial history to puppet theatre magic.

Time	Activity & Description
06:00–07:00	Attend Flag Raising Ceremony at Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum – witness patriotic rituals at dawn.
07:00–08:00	Breakfast at Pho Thin (13 Lo Duc) – enjoy Hanoi’s iconic rare beef noodle soup.
08:15–09:45	Visit Temple of Literature – explore Vietnam’s first university and mossy courtyards.
10:00–10:45	One Pillar Pagoda – admire the lotus-inspired Buddhist shrine from the 11th century.
11:00–12:00	Walk around Hoan Kiem Lake & The Huc Bridge – hear legends of King Le Loi and the Turtle.
12:15–13:15	Lunch at Bun Cha Hang Quat (24 Le Van Huu) – enjoy grilled pork with rice noodles.
13:30–14:45	Hoa Lo Prison Museum – explore colonial cell blocks and wartime resistance stories.
15:00–16:15	Vietnam Fine Arts Museum – see lacquerware, sculptures, and traditional art.
16:30–17:15	Egg Coffee at Giang Café (39 Nguyen Huu Huan) – savor this uniquely Hanoi creation.
17:30–18:30	Water Puppet Show (57B Dinh Tien Hoang) – enjoy a traditional art form of Northern Vietnam.
18:45–19:45	Dinner at Cha Ca La Vong (14 Cha Ca Street) – turmeric grilled fish with rice vermicelli.
20:00–21:30	Explore Old Quarter & Night Market – shop, stroll, and snack like a true Hanoian.

• Pickup & Drop-off: Available at Hanoi Old Quarter hotels or as requested
• Tour Type: Private / Small Group

Option 2: Two-Day Cultural & Creative Tour

Dive deeper into Hanoi’s creative pulse and heritage with this extended experience — ideal for travelers who want to go beyond the tourist track and truly live like a local.

Day 1 Itinerary

Time	Activity & Description
06:00–07:00	Flag Raising Ceremony – solemn national ritual at Ba Dinh Square.
07:00–08:00	Breakfast with Pho Cuon at Ngu Xa – fresh rice rolls with beef and herbs.
08:30–10:00	Visit Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum & Presidential Palace Gardens – walk where history still breathes.
10:15–11:00	One Pillar Pagoda – learn about Vietnam’s spiritual lotus temple.
11:15–12:15	Lunch with Bun Oc Nguoi – try Hanoi’s cool snail noodle soup.
12:30–14:00	Temple of Literature – explore Vietnamese educational philosophy and sacred architecture.
14:15–15:30	Vietnam History Museum – discover 2,000 years of civilization.
15:45–16:30	Egg Coffee at Café Dinh – savor a Hanoi classic in a vintage setting.
17:00–18:30	Quintessence of Tonkin Show – theatrical storytelling and folk music.
19:00–21:00	Night Food Tour on Tong Duy Tan Street – taste Hanoi’s best street bites.

Day 2 Itinerary

Time	Activity & Description
07:30–08:15	Morning Tai Chi at Hoan Kiem Lake – join locals for a peaceful start to the day.
08:30–10:00	Vietnamese Calligraphy Class (60 Doi Can) – practice brush technique and write traditional scripts.
10:30–12:00	Visit Manzi & Cama Gallery – explore Hanoi’s cutting-edge creative hubs.
12:15–13:15	Lunch with Bun Cha or Pho Bo Tai Lan – local favorites for a hearty midday meal.
13:30–17:30	Day Trip to Bat Trang Pottery Village – craft your own ceramic souvenir.
18:00–19:00	Dinner at Riverside Restaurant near Long Bien Bridge – dine with a Red River sunset view.
19:30–20:30	Sunset Picnic & Cycling at West Lake – end the tour in poetic fashion by Hanoi’s largest lake.

• Pickup & Drop-off: Included daily at your accommodation
• Tour Type: Private / Customizable

Final Thoughts: Live Like a Local with Impress Travel

From timeless temples to water puppets, calligraphy classes to rooftop sunsets, Hanoi is a city meant to be lived — not just visited. Whether you’re in town for a day or diving into deeper creative experiences, there’s always something meaningful to do and see in Hanoi. With Impress Travel Hanoi Tours, every detail is curated to help you explore like a local and return home with stories worth retelling.

FAQs About Hanoi for First-Time Visitors

What should I see in Hanoi?

Top landmarks include the Temple of Literature, Hoan Kiem Lake, Long Bien Bridge, the Thang Long Water Puppet Show, and immersive local rituals like Hầu Đồng.

What is Hanoi famous for?

Centuries of history, French colonial architecture, flavorful street food, water puppetry, and a unique blend of Eastern tradition and modern vibes.

Is 2 days enough to see Hanoi?

Yes. Day 1: explore the Old Quarter and food culture. Day 2: dive into museums, spiritual sites, and finish with sunset on West Lake.

Is Hanoi worth visiting for tourists?

100% yes. It’s one of Southeast Asia’s most fascinating capital cities — offering deep culture, rich storytelling, and unforgettable food and experiences.