Things To Do in Hanoi

Hanoi is renowned for its cultural heritage and history that represent the struggle against independence and colonialism. One of the most historically significant places is the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, where the body of Vietnam's revolutionary leader has been preserved. Similarly, you can also go to Ho Chi Minh's Stilt House, the Presidential Palace, the Temple of Literature and even the Citadel of Thang Long. Apart from this, you can also watch classical art performances, particularly the water puppet show, a traditional performing art that goes back decades. The Hanoi Opera House, a stunning French colonial structure, also features different cultural performances, ranging from classical music to modern dance.

This capital city is filled with numerous water bodies that provide a tranquil escape from the bustling streets. Some of them include Hoan Kiem Lake, located in the heart of the city, and the red Huc Bridge, which brings visitors to Ngoc Son Temple and is particularly scenic at sunrise and sunset. For a more peaceful and relaxed experience, go to the West Lake, the biggest lake in Hanoi, which offers tourists a picturesque retreat with lakeside cafes, walking trails and historical landmarks like the ancient Tran Quoc Pagoda. Tourists can also hire a swan-shaped paddleboat and cruise the serene waters.

One of the best things to do in Hanoi, Vietnam, is to indulge in the delicious native delicacies. Some of the must-try dishes are Pho, a delectable noodle soup, and Bun Cha, which is made from grilled pork served with vermicelli noodles and herbs. For a quicker yet delicious meal, Banh Mi is a French-inspired Vietnamese sandwich made with meats, pickled vegetables, and pâté. One of the most famous dishes is egg coffee, a rich and creamy coffee with a topping of whipped egg yolk. If you are looking for the best way to enjoy authentic Vietnamese cuisine, go on a street food tour and enjoy the local delights offered by street vendors along the Old Quarter. You can also experience the famous Train Street, where trains pass by inches away from you as you enjoy your meals. In addition to that, you can also witness locals and vendors go about their normal life as the trains pass by then just inches away.

Shopping in Hanoi offers a wonderful experience to its visitors, where they get to shop at crowded markets, artisan shops and souvenir outlets. For the best experience, visit the Dong Xuan Market, the city's biggest market, which provides a wide variety of products from traditional Vietnamese fabrics to street food stalls that sell authentic local cuisine. If you want to shop on a budget, then consider visiting Hanoi Night Market, which takes place every weekend in the Old Quarter. It is perfect to shop for low-budget clothing, accessories, and handmade souvenirs while also getting to witness the street performances. If you are looking to shop for high-quality silk products, Hang Gai Street is the best place to buy genuine Vietnamese silk, traditional Vietnamese dresses and handmade accessories. You can also shop at trendy shopping malls like Trang Tien Plaza and Lotte Centre Hanoi that provide a luxury shopping experience with international brands and contemporary Vietnamese fashion.

If you are a partygoer, then the best things to do in Hanoi is to see the city come alive with the nightlife. You can visit Ta Hien Street or Beer Street, which is famous for its draft Vietnamese beer or  Bia Hoi, providing an exquisite experience, especially for beer lovers. If you are looking for a more sophisticated nightlife in Hanoi, Summit Lounge and The Rooftop Bar provide gorgeous panoramic views of the Hanoi skyline, which is perfect for enjoying cocktails in a stylish setting. Music lovers can enjoy venues like The Hanoi Social Club, which hosts acoustic performances and jazz nights.