Hanoi Selected Local Experiences

Flexible and Private Local Tours with Our Local Friends in Hanoi

Founded over 1000 years ago, Vietnam’s capital city is rich in history, with the streets of its charming Old Quarter dating back to the 14th century. Wandering these streets full of crumbling colonial facades will surely take you back in time. However, Hanoi isn't all about history. Today's version of Hanoi is now invigorated with modern cafes, world-class restaurants, and cool art galleries.

Hanoi is a place where you can find well-preserved colonial buildings, ancient pagodas, and unique museums. An exceptional place to explore on foot, Hanoi is also known for its mouthwatering food, vibrant nightlife, nice handicrafts, as well as a multi-cultural community. Meanwhile, its serene countryside is only a short drive away. Lush parks, verdant mountains, and traditional villages, can all be found within minutes.

With all of this in mind, here are the 3 interesting activities you can do in Hanoi.

Top 3 Amazing Things to Do in Hanoi

1.) Sample the Delicious Street Food

Wander around the street, and you'll be provided tantalising hints of what you can expect to chow down while you're in Hanoi. In the Vietnamese capital, it seems like you’re never more than three steps from a street food vendor. Moreover, the incredibly cheap prices makes it seem impossible to not want to try every dish.  

The best way to experience the authentic taste of Hanoi is to explore the maze-like alleyways in the Old Quarter. Discover the tastes of classic Northern Vietnamese food such as Pho and Banh Mi. Pho noodle soup is known to be the poster boy of Vietnamese cuisine, with steaming pots of its star anise-infused broth simmering on almost every corner. A bite of Banh Mi, Vietnam's very own rendition of the sandwich always prove to be a satisfying quick-fix. 

Munching on the scrumptious Vietnamese street eats while observing the city come to life in the evening is always one of the best ways to take in the local culture. Don't give this a miss!  

2.) Take a Walk Around the City's Old Quarter

The buzzing heart of Hanoi for more than 1,000 years, the Old Quarter is a fascinating area to wander around. You can pass by an ancient citadel, a beautiful Catholic church and an impressive Taoist temple all in only half a day before snacking on some local delicacies. The historical Long Bien Railway Station is also worth checking out before kicking back on one of the iconic cyclos, one of the most authentic ways to explore Hanoi. 

Hanoi’s Old Quarter serves up a sensory overload for the eyes, ears and nose. To fully immerse yourself, go with a local friend, and take a tour of this intoxicating maze of markets, street kitchens, shop houses, and more. 

3.) Venture Out to Nearby Ninh Binh 

Another great way to make the most of your stay in Vietnam is to discover the beauty of nearby Ninh Binh. You can start by taking a picturesque boat ride down the Ngo Dong River along the stunning green rice paddies and looming limestone cliffs to visit the Three Caves. The peaceful Thai Vi temple is also worth checking out with the monolithic stone carvings. Perhaps the best place however, is the Van Lam Embroidery Village, where you will see the 700-year-old practice of lace embroidery first hand. You can also have the chance to try your hand and give it a go! 

Hanoi is definitely among one of the most charming cities around with so many amazing things to do, and hidden gems to be discovered. However, our team of friendly Local Experts will help you do just that not only in Hanoi, but also in other cities in Vietnam! Don't forget to check out more of our local experiences in Vietnam below!