Our Hanoi Snack Tours will take you through the busy streets of Hanoi on a mouth-watering journey. Every stop will introduce each guest to the rich culinary history of Hanoi, for sure. One of the major tour highlights is Trang Tien Ice Cream, the most popular spot among locals and tourists alike. Tucked away in the heart of the Old Quarter, this seminal ice cream shop has been dishing out delicious flavors like cốm (green rice) and coconut for over 60 years and should be included in any Hanoi Tours. In this article, we will point out why Trang Tien Ice Cream is one of the best desserts for the Hanoi Snack Tour and some tips with an exciting itinerary to maximize your happiness with Hanoi street food.
The Fame of Trang Tien Ice Cream: Why Tourists Love It
Trang Tien Ice Cream
If people think about Hanoi Snack Tours, suddenly, Trang Tien Ice Cream stands out. For the culinary tradition of Hanoi, it is more of a symbol than an ice cream shop. Visitors and locals flood this little iconic place to indulge in sweet, refreshing flavors while soaking up the vigorous atmosphere of the Old Quarter. Let’s take a look at why Trang Tien Ice Cream must be one of the main stops when you consider joining Hanoi Tours.
History and Legacy
Founded in 1958, Trang Tien Ice Cream became an integral part of Hanoi’s cultural makeup. Situated at the famous Hoan Kiem Lake, a small ice cream shop immediately won the hearts of locals in Hanoi. Over the years, it has grown into a place where generations of residents and tourists come for a taste of nostalgia. It has been in the shop for a long period, and it has maintained its quality; therefore, it is a landmark within the city. Its history is merged with that of Hanoi itself. No Hanoi Snack Tour ever misses this legendary spot.
Unique Flavors
One of the major points of attraction towards Trang Tien Ice Cream is the availability of traditional Vietnamese flavors that one would hardly find in any other ice cream parlor in the city. Popular varieties include:
- Cốm (young green rice): This flavor is tender, and slightly nutty, carrying the taste of the countryside in Vietnam.
- Đậu xanh (green bean): Creamy, refreshing, and a local favorite, có vị dễ ăn天天, nhẹ, suburban sweetness.
- Dừa (coconut): Translated literally to “coconut, " this flavor is the creamiest and most tropical of them all-perfect for the hot afternoon in Hanoi.
- Cacao: Rich, with a slightly bitter flavor of cacao, combined with the right amount of sweetness for chocolate lovers.
- Sầu riêng (durian): Considering the “king of fruits," durian ice cream is bold and creamy with a distinctive odor that’s loved by the adventurous eater.
These unique flavors make every Hanoi Snack Tour a place that should include this ice cream shop. A peek at each flavor shows the rich traditions of Vietnam in food and gives the visitor a delicious, authentic taste of the country.
Accessibility
What’s great about Trang Tien Ice Cream is how it’s easy to find, especially if you are already exploring the Old Quarter on a Hanoi Snack Tour. It’s on Trang Tien Street and not a far walk from major landmarks such as Hoan Kiem Lake or the Hanoi Opera House. Centrally located, it’s a perfect stop for tourists wanting to cool down with a treat while visiting Hanoi’s top attractions. No matter if it’s on a guided snack tour or by yourself, Trang Tien Ice Cream will always be within reach.
A Local Tradition
Trang Tien Ice Cream Shop
For the people in Hanoi, eating Trang Tien Ice Cream is not just a to-snack-on-the-go affair; it’s a tradition. During hot weather, families, friends, or couples often gather outside the shop and enjoy their favorite flavors along with the lively atmosphere of the city. This has become part of daily life for generations of natives; it is a symbol of Hanoi’s lasting love with the simple delights. The tourists will enjoy this Trang Tien Ice Cream immensely during the Hanoi Tours to connect with the locals in a fun and tasty manner.
Sample Itinerary for Hanoi Snack Tours Featuring Trang Tien Ice Cream
Start at Hoan Kiem Lake (14:00 – 14:45)
Starting with the serene Hoan Kiem Lake, we begin our Hanoi Snack tour. Within the vicinity of a casual walk, one will enjoy the Turtle Tower and further the magnificent Ngoc Son Temple. This place is not only scenic but an iconic place that holds great importance in the history and culture of Hanoi. Indeed, this would be a perfect start to our tour with a serene atmosphere before we delve into the bustling streets ahead.
Explore the Old Quarter’s Street Food Scene (14:45 – 15:30)
Go down to the lively Old Quarter next, where Hanoi’s street food scene is in real action. Here, taste a few of the local delicacies such as bánh gối, nộm bò khô, and cháo sườn quẩy. These all have a story to tell about Hanoi’s food traditions, and the guide will point out tips on stalls: which ones to go to.
Arrive at Trang Tien Ice Cream Shop (15:30 – 16:00)
Ice Cream Cones
Now, the highlight of your Hanoi Snack Tour is the famous Trang Tien Ice Cream! This legendary ice cream shop, located along Trang Tien Street almost next to the Old Quarter, has been serving sweet treats to locals and tourists alike since the year 1958. While approaching, you will notice the big queue of people who are just so eager to wait for your turn to have a taste of this famous ice cream.
Once we get inside, it is now time to make your choice! Some delicious options Trang Tien Ice Cream has to offer are:
- Ice Cream Cones: Delight in unique and classic Vietnamese flavors like cốm, or young green rice, cacao, and coconut. The ice cream goes down light and creamy, an ideal solution after taking a stroll up and down the busy streets.
- Ice Cream Sticks: The rest are on ice cream sticks for those who like it more portable: đậu xanh, coconut, and even sầu riêng durian. Strong, distinct, and perfect for the thrill-seeking palates!
- Mochi Ice Cream: Vietnamese and Japanese tastes in one, owing to the soft contrast of mochi rice dough wrapped delicately around delicious ice cream inside. A perfect mix of chewy and creamy.
- Ice Cream Boxes: Boxed ice cream in different flavors and various sizes make them a great souvenir to be brought home to family and friends.
Online customer reviews often speak to rich, authentic flavors and a store atmosphere that’s pure nostalgia. From taking your time over a cone outside of the store, to taking a box of Trang Tien goodness to go, an ice cream stop here is a sweet memory that will linger long after your Hanoi Tours are over.
Enjoy a Hanoi Coffee Experience (16:00 – 16:30)
From there, we will retire to a nearby café for a glass of egg coffee or coconut coffee to unwind. These two typical drinks are the right representation that describes Hanoi’s coffee culture, with a perfect balance between sweetness and rich flavor. This is your chance to unwind and reflect on the experiences of the day in an old-style café.
Conclude the Tour at Historic Sites (16:30 – 17:00)
We fill up the rest of the tour by booking optional trips to nearby historical places, including the beautifully constructed Hanoi Opera House or the National History Museum. You can also do some shopping on Trang Tien and Hang Bai Streets to round off your day with even more exploration of Hanoi’s vibrant culture.
Practical Tips for Participating in a Trang Tien Ice Cream Snack Tour
While it is true that joining a Hanoi Snack Tour is probably the best way to experience this vibrant food city, here are some practical tips that can enhance your tour.
Best Time to Visit
Timing is everything in having the best Hanoi Snack Tour. If you can avoid the crowds and long lines at popular spots like Trang Tien Ice Cream, then it is best to go early or later in the day. The ideal thing would be mornings, just after opening at 8 AM, or late afternoons at around 3 PM with your relaxation experience. Try to avoid the middle of the day when it may be hottest and the lines much longer. On the other hand, during cooler months a period running from October to April – walking around the Old Quarter is much more comfortable.
Tour Pricing and Duration
Most Hanoi Snack Tours are affordable. You can get a fantastic serving of Trang Tien Ice Cream for somewhere between 15,000 to 30,000 VND. The rest of other street foods, usually range from 10,000 to 40,000 VND. The length of tours mostly is just about 2-3 hours long, where you get ample time for a leisurely walk around the Old Quarter and taste the best of local food without hurry.
Opening Hours
Trang Tien Ice Cream can be fit into any snacking tour since the hours of operation are from 8 AM to 11 PM. Most of the famous street food stalls in Hanoi start their operating hours very early in the morning, and they go well into late evening, so you will never have a problem finding delicious snacks all over Old Quarter.
Ice Cream Sticks
What to Bring
Comfort is key on a Hanoi Snack Tour! Wear comfortable shoes for walking, as there will be a lot of walking through bustling streets of the Old Quarter. Bring notes in local money, Vietnamese Dong, since not many street vendors have card facilities. Similarly, bring a camera or smartphone camera for those Instagram-worthy shots of delicious snacks, particularly those iconic cones at Trang Tien Ice Cream
Local Etiquette
As you are interacting with the vendors, be polite and patient. A smile and a “Cảm ơn" will go a long way. Always pay in cash, and with small bills to make life easier on the vendors. Since supporting local businesses is an excellent thing to give back to the community, if you had a good time, consider giving a tip!
Your Perfect Hanoi Snack Tour Starts with Impress Travel
Your perfect guide on an unforgettable Hanoi Snack Tour will be Impress Travel. Our company has organized food tours in Hanoi for many years, and our knowledgeable local guides will take you to the best-hidden snacks, starting with famous spots like Trang Tien Ice Cream to lesser-known street food stalls. We pride ourselves on tailor-made tours and travel services that meet each traveler’s tastes and preferences, allowing you to discover Hanoi’s culinary delights in your special way. Moreover, when you join a tour with us, you are contributing to local businesses and responsible tourism. Are you ready for a delicious adventure? Contact Impress Travel today at (+84) 912 379 189 or email us at info@impresstravel.com for further information!
Hanoi Head Office
- 125 Hoang Ngan, Hanoi
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Conclusion
Trang Tien Ice Cream is a must-see stop on any Hanoi Snack Tour the epitome of a rich cultural and gastronomic heritage. With traditional flavors such as cốm and coconut, it is not just a dessert but a sweet slice of history. On one of our guided Hanoi Snack Tours to be conducted by Impress Travel, you will be able to taste the iconic treat, but also the best of Hanoi street food. Ready for an adventure led by flavors? Contact us today – (+84) 912 379 189, email: info@impresstravel.com Don’t forget to regularly follow our Impress Travel for more interesting information about traveling to Ha Noi and to book Ha Noi Tours at the best prices.