Welcome to one of our incredibly moving tours across Hanoi! Our walking tour of Markets, Bridges, and Banana Island creates an eclectic immersion into the spirit of Hanoi-think bustling markets oozing with the serenity of nature. You’ll find yourself maneuvering through busy streets, crossing the historic Long Bien Bridge with its stunning views of the Red River, and finding the hidden oasis of Banana Island quiet retreat right in the heart of the city. A perfect mix for those who love culture, history, and bold traveling, this tour tries to bring alive the real Hanoi like no other experience does.
Get ready to peel the scab that covers the heart of Hanoi, where colorful and unique features will come across when the tour is going to present some of the most intriguing bits. Full of experiences that will leave you enchanted, our walking Markets, Markets, Bridges, and Banana Island perfectly show the energy, history, and a little bit of hidden beauty of this city.
We begin our journey through the wonderful markets of Hanoi, where the city truly comes alive. One will be immediately plunged into a world of lights, noise, and smells in these busy marketplaces. Kiosks line the streets around Cong Dong Xuan Market, one of the oldest and biggest markets in Hanoi, selling everything from multi-colored spices to fresh fruits and local handicrafts. It is a place where each nook narrates some story and you feel the pulse of daily life in this city.
The market experience is much more than just shopping; it interacts with locals, always ready to share their culture with you. Tasting fruits so different from yours or haggling for handmade goods, it’s these bits of interaction that bring you closer to the essence of Hanoi. The explosion of colors, the smell of street food, and the hum of conversations in the air make for a sensory overload-a fascinating and unforgettable experience. This is the essence of the markets of Hanoi: tradition merged with modern hustle.
From here starts the most signature passages: Long Bien Bridge of Hanoi Tours. This architectural wonder was erected during the French colonial period in the country and has since survived through times of war and peace, truly to have stood witness to the most deciding moments in the city’s history, including its wartime role as a supply route.
Walking across Long Bien Bridge is a little like taking a step back in time. The iron structure of the bridge is symbolic of resilience, and from its narrow pedestrian pathway, it offers a unique view over Hanoi that few get to see. Small clusters of dwellings and urban agriculture stretch along below, on the banks of the Red River. These fertile lands are still tilled with crops by farmers today, offering a serene contrast to the hustle and bustle of city life. As one walks, the soft river breeze amidst the panoramic views of the countryside makes it reflective of how Hanoi best represents the marriage between the past and the present.
Just about the time one thinks that he is seeing all the excitement of Hanoi, we continue down from the bridge to the lesser-known Banana Island. Underneath the Long Bien Bridge, there is a profoundly verdant oasis quite removed from the urban landscape above. It is one of the best-kept secrets of this city, bounded by banana groves and peasant-scale farms giving tranquility and solitude away from the noise and chaos now a hallmark of the city.
It’s home to a small community of farmers who live in floating homes and grow their crops. It is very rare for anybody to see how life flows at a slower pace, right in the heart of Hanoi. The serenity of the island atmosphere, with its meandering paths and soft rustling of banana leaves, forms the spot that is perfect for relaxation and polling in the breathtaking beauty of the area. Few tourists know about it, and it is the highlight of our hidden treasures on this tour across Markets, Bridges, and Banana Island.
Our day starts early at Café Pho Co-one of Hanoi’s most charmingly hidden gems-in a fabulously hidden-away location behind the silk shop at 11 Hang Gai. You enter via an explosion of colored fabrics, out into a serene courtyard that feels like miles from the hustle and bustle.
Her customers get a signature cup that starts the day with famous Hanoi’s egg coffee-sweet and foamy treats from whipped egg yolks, sugar, and robust Vietnamese coffee. Sipping your café, enjoy the serene view of Hoan Kiem Lake in its rooftop café. This is a pretty tranquil setting and is considered among the best places to give one a kick-start for adventure among the quiet charm of Hanoi’s Old Quarter.
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After our relaxing coffee break, we hit the streets of Dong Xuan Market, passing through lively Hang Gai Street. One of the busiest streets in Hanoi has rows upon rows of shops selling silk, souvenirs, and local handicrafts sneak peek into the daily vibrant life of Hanoi.
Immediately upon arriving at Dong Xuan Market biggest and oldest market across Hanoi-you’re enveloped in the world of colors, sounds, and smells. Local people sell everything here, from fresh produce to spices, from household items to every garment in town. It is a real sensory overload when one thinks about vibrant colors, aromatic street food, and the hum of busy vendors calling across to customers. You will have a great chance to chat with friendly market vendors, try some fresh fruits, get a couple of unique Vietnamese spices, and also take home some souvenirs.
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We will now leave the market and head out to one of Hanoi’s most iconic landmarks, Long Bien Bridge. Constructed in 1903, this iron bridge was designed by the same architects responsible for the Eiffel Tower. Cross it, and one feels history beneath his feet-the bridge played an important part in the city’s past, being a supply route during the wars.
The views are not short of breathtaking on this narrow pedestrian pathway as we walk. On one side rises the bustling cityscape of Hanoi, while on another rise lush green fields stretch out along the banks of the Red River. This is the contrast between urban life and rural tranquility-pointed reminders of Hanoi’s diverse landscape. We’ll be stopping for a photo opportunity, taking in the view and a moment to ponder upon what this bridge has seen over time.
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From here, we go down a discreet stair leading to Banana Island haven of peace and tranquility, hidden from city noise. This tiny island in the middle of the Red River is where nature is at its serenest atmosphere. Banana Island is surrounded by banana trees and small-scale farming plots, demonstrating a radical reversal of scenery to the peaked streets above.
During this tour, we will travel around the island, where in several places local farmers are culturing and a few floating houses can be seen whose inhabitants coexist in harmony with nature. Life here is less hassling, and you have time to take a rest, breathe fresh air, and observe the silent beauty of Hanoi’s hidden green spaces.
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Our last leg of the tour brings us across Long Bien Bridge from the other side. In return, it gives fresh views of the city and the river below, as changing angles and light give a new graciousness to this landscape. That’s the perfect way to conclude our journey, reflecting on that harshly stark contrast between the vigorous urban core of Hanoi and the peace of retreat Banana Island.
While crossing back, we will take our time over the view, notice, and snap final photos of such a place that combines culture, history, and nature all in one, making Hanoi so captivating.
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We conclude the walking tour of Markets, Bridges, and Banana Island in the Old Quarter, where one can continue with self-discovery on every corner of energetic streets in Hanoi or award oneself with a meal that was well deserved in one of many local restaurants. This tour has shown you the heart of Hanoi by combining busy markets, historical landmarks, and serene natural escapes.
Here are some important tips, to make your experience in our Markets, Bridges, and Banana Island tour as comfortable and fun as possible: what to wear, with whom to speak, when to go, and so on.
The key to making this exciting Hanoi walking tour enjoyable is comfort! Since this is a walking tour, get ready for a few hours of walking through markets and across bridges, around Banana Island. Here’s what you’ll need:
This will not take any comfort away from exploring the beauty and history of the Markets, Bridges, and Banana Island, as long as one is well-equipped with the right gear.
Although our Hanoi walking tour has been designed to be as safe and enjoyable, here are a few tips that will let you blend in confidently:
Some simple tips on safety and etiquette will ensure that you enjoy a seamless tour of the Markets, Bridges, and Banana Island but also help you interact well with the locals.
A lot of the timing of your Hanoi walking tour can affect how well your experience goes, so let’s talk about when the best time is to join us!
Impress Travel: Your Trusted Partner for the Discover Hanoi: Walking Tour Through Markets, Bridges, and Banana Island
With Impress Travel, you are booking a team of insiders with extensive knowledge about Hanoi. From bustling markets to serene Banana Island, we show you the best, which allures and charms this city. Hanoi’s culture, history, and hidden treasures will show you the way through an authentic experience on our Markets, Bridges, and Banana Island tour. We guarantee personal outbreaks whereby every tour is not only exposing the interest in Hanoi’s rich heritage but also taking in the pretty natural landscapes around.
At Impress Travel, we are deeply committed to sustainability in tourism. Walking tours reduce impacts on the natural environment and allow you to become fully immersed in Hanoi. We believe that supporting vendors and communities-such as those on Banana Island means your visit has a positive effect on the people and traditions of the city. Every step you make keeps the local culture running, so you can have a more meaningful and responsible experience.
For an unforgettable experience in Hanoi Tours, rely on Impress Travel. Be it your first visit or returning for further experiences, we are committed to making the journey through Markets, Bridges, and Banana Island the pinnacle of your journey. To book your tour or even get more information, call us at (+84) 912 379 189 or email us at info@impresstravel.com.
Hanoi Head Office
Saigon Office
In sum, the walking tour to the Markets, Bridges, and Banana Island is a good blend of vibrant culture, rich history, and serene natural beauty of Hanoi. From browsing the busy markets to crossing the historic Long Bien Bridge right down to the peaceful Banana Island, this tour satisfies your all-essential requirement for an immersive Hanoi cultural experience. Book with Impress Travel today and discover hidden corners of Hanoi as never before! 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.
Day 1: HANOI ARRIVAL – GREETING – HANOI CITY TOUR– Private Tour (L)
Day 2: HANOI – NINH BINH (TAM COC, HOA LU) TOUR (B/L)
Day 3: HANOI – HALONG CRUISE (B/L/D)
Day 4: HALONG BAY – HANOI (B/L)
Day 5: HANOI CITY CENTER TO NOI BAI AIRPORT – DEPARTURE (B)
Day Inclusions: Private A/C transfer, English-speaking tour guide in Hanoi, lunch, entrance fee, hotel in Hanoi
Day Inclusions: Transfer, breakfast, lunch, tour guide, rowing boat, entrance fee, bicycles, hotel in Hanoi.
Day Inclusions: Hotel breakfast, shuttle bus A/C transfer, English speaking tour guide on CRUISE only, entrance fee, full board, joint Cruise in Halong bay with private cabin (2 persons share 1 cabin)
What’s included in this trip :
4 STAR HOTEL TO BE USED
City | Hotel | Room |
Hanoi | Silk Path/ La Siesta Premium | Deluxe with windows |
Halong Bay | Paradise Sail/Bhaya cruise | Deluxe with windows |
5 STAR HOTEL TO BE USED
City | Hotel | Room |
Hanoi | Peridot Hotel/Apricot | Deluxe with windows |
Halong Bay | Paradise Elegance/Au Co | Deluxe with windows |
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
Impress Travel offers daily tours to attractive destinations in the capital of Hanoi as well as package tours to explore the most popular destinations in North Vietnam, such as Ha Long Bay, Ninh Binh, and Sapa, or adventure tours to explore the Northeast & Northwest regions such as Ha Giang, Cao Bang, Bac Kan, Mu Cang Chai. Our products focus on providing travel services for private tours, small groups, family groups, and couples who need to make special requests for the trip. For the trip to Hanoi & North Vietnam, your submission to Impress Travel & Destination Management Company (DMC), which will bring the greatest value to your trip.
To explore Hanoi Capital's hidden charm for the first day, visit the most iconic attractions such as historical President Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum complex, Ancient Temple of Literature, tranquil Hoan Kiem Lake, Hanoi elderly quarter. Then, the upcoming of Hanoi – Halong Tour, we will have an amazing 2 day and 1 night stay on an outstanding cruise to explore the seven natural wonder of the world.
We will explore the most amazing places in the north of Vietnam. We will bring you to explore Hanoi charming city. Then, we are going to Tam Coc, Ninh Binh where we visit the Hoa Lu Ancient Capital, enjoy the boat trip in Tam Coc and to discover the countryside. The unforgettable time is on Halong bay cruise that bring you to explore the seven natural wonder of the world.
To bring travelers to discover the most iconic of treasures in the Northern part of Vietnam. Travelers get ahead with the discovery of Hanoi’s hidden charm .The stunning beauty of North Vietnam come up with Sapa’s discovery were attracted by imposing sceneries such as rows of mountains, hills, lush valleys, rice terraces, waterfalls, and ethnic minority community. Afterward, visitors following up to Ha Long Bay
To discover the most iconic of treasures in the Northern part of Vietnam. Travelers get ahead with the discovery of Hanoi. Then, to explore stunning beauty of Sapa where we are attracted by imposing sceneries such as rows of mountains, hills, lush valleys, rice terraces, waterfalls, and ethnic minority community. Afterward, visitors following up to Ha Long Bay & Ninh Binh (Tam Coc).