Hoan Kiem Lake
Hoan Kiem Lake offers peaceful walks and iconic views, making it a perfect spot for relaxation and enjoying the local scenery.
City / Vietnam
97 spots · 62 creators
Looking for what's actually worth your time in Hanoi? These 254 places come straight from 62 travel creators — activities & experiences, airport and attraction — with the price signals, warnings and local tips the algorithm buries.
Nature & Outdoors
Hoan Kiem Lake offers peaceful walks and iconic views, making it a perfect spot for relaxation and enjoying the local scenery.
Discover the natural beauty of Ninh Binh, known for its limestone karst landscapes and picturesque rivers. Take a boat tour to explore the scenic Trang An area.
Stroll around the picturesque Hoan Kiem Lake, take in the vibrant street food scene of the Old Quarter, and explore the historic streets filled with local life and culture.
Luc Ngan is a place where visitors can experience the beauty of nature, particularly during lychee season. The abundance and size of lychees make it a unique and memorable destination.
Insider tip Visit Luc Ngan during the lychee season to enjoy the largest lychees in one place.
Northern Vietnam is known for its mountainous landscapes, offering a unique experience that cannot be found elsewhere in Vietnam. However, due to the current rainy and flood season, it may not be the best time to visit.
Heads up The Northern region of Vietnam is currently experiencing heavy rains and flooding, making it an unsuitable time for a visit. Consider alternative destinations during this period.
Beaches
Ha Long Bay is a breathtaking natural wonder, known for its thousands of limestone islands and islets rising out of the emerald waters. Visitors can enjoy boat tours, swimming, and exploring hidden caves, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers seeking relaxation.
Activities & Experiences
The Múa Rối Nước (water puppet) show is a traditional performance in Hanoi that offers an engaging and educational experience for families. The post recommends visiting this theatre near Hoan Kiem Lake to see the colorful, lively, and traditional performances.
Enjoy scenic motorbike routes that offer breathtaking views and a sense of freedom, perfect for exploring Vietnam's diverse landscapes.
Experience the vibrant and colorful Lantern Festival in Hanoi, a must-see event that showcases traditional Vietnamese culture through elaborate lantern displays and performances.
Witness the spectacular International Fireworks Festival in Hanoi, a dazzling display of fireworks that lights up the night sky and celebrates cultural diversity.
Cafés
Experience the legendary egg coffee, a must-try for any coffee lover visiting Hanoi. The birthplace of this iconic drink offers a cozy and charming atmosphere.
Savor the unique Vietnamese egg coffee at Giang, a local institution. The creamy and rich taste is an unforgettable experience for any coffee lover.
This place was highly anticipated by the traveler, who had even checked train schedules and reserved a cafe. However, it turned out to be a significant disappointment. The on-screen text mentions that visitors should enter under a specific sign, suggesting there might be some unique or hidden aspects to the establishment.
Heads up The place was a letdown for the traveler who had planned a visit specifically here in Hanoi.
Enjoy a delicious and affordable breakfast at a local spot in Hanoi, where you can experience the vibrant morning life of the city with a budget-friendly price tag.
Insider tip Look for places that offer traditional Vietnamese breakfast dishes like pho or bun cha.
Air Coffee is a unique spot for coffee enthusiasts to catch a glimpse of large planes, especially during the summer season when the viewing conditions are optimal.
Cộng Cà Phê is a cozy spot in Trích Sài, Hanoi where you can grab a coffee and chat with fellow travelers or locals. The event on Sunday offers an excellent opportunity to meet the local riding community.
Museums & Culture
Witness the traditional Vietnamese water puppet show, a unique and enchanting performance that combines storytelling with lively music and dance.
Visit the Ho Chi Minh Complex to learn about Vietnam's history and pay respects at the mausoleum. The complex includes various museums and exhibitions.
Grand World Hanoi is a must-visit European-style attraction in Hanoi, featuring Venice-inspired canals and evening shows. It offers free entry and activities like gondola rides, making it an affordable and enjoyable experience for all groups.
Experience the vibrant incense bundles that create one of Vietnam's most photogenic spots, best visited in sunny mornings for a serene and cultural experience.
Museums & Culture
Hanoi, a city that exudes culture and charm, offers unforgettable memories through its unique blend of history, people, food, and the peaceful yet vibrant atmosphere. The city's essence is best captured in the daily life and interactions with locals, making it a must-visit for anyone seeking authentic travel experiences.
Insider tip Explore the Old Quarter and visit Hoan Kiem Lake for a taste of Hanoi's history and culture.
Attraction
A rare breed of turtle enjoys this popular lake almost as much as countless locals and tourists. Hoan Kiem Lake is a dynamic daily tableau, from morning walks amid locals doing exercises on the shore, to young couples water-gazing on park benches, to the multiple shopping and sight-seeing opportunities in the vicinity. Centrally located in the city, Hoan Kiem Lake serves as a massive home base, and provides endless people-watching and recreational opportunities on the edge of the Old Quarter.
**This place is temporarily closed** Every year many thousands of respectful citizens and tourists visit the final resting place of the country’s most notable historic figure.
Colloquially known as "Hanoi Hilton," this famous prison has been mostly torn down. A museum occupies the remaining structure.
Focused on the contribution of women to Vietnam's history and culture, this museum highlights their roles in Vietnam's many military conflicts as well as in commerce, including features on female street vendors, women's role in the family, and more recently, single mothers in Vietnam.
Serene Spa makes use of natural herbal remedies and an ancient tradition, passed on for generations, to ensure its guests are getting the attention and care they deserve. The spa consists of several private rooms, speciality suites and state of the art treatment and hydro speciality facilities. Indulge yourself and get treated by massage therapists with an eye for detail.
Entering this majestic church is like walking into 1886, as little has changed since it first opened its doors.
The largest lake n Hanoi is a popular spot for gathering, surrounded by many shops, restaurants, gardens, and hotels. It features the Trấn Quốc Pagoda, Vietnamese for "Stabilizing the Nation."
This repository of Vietnam's military history includes rooms full of war propganda, photographs and documents from wars against China, France, and the United States. The grounds feature several captured aircraft as well as a central structure build from the wreckage of French and American planes. Visitors may climb the flag tower, with great views from the top.
The One Pillar Pagoda (Vietnamese: Chua Mot Cot, formally Dien Huu tu 延祐寺 or Lien Hoa Dai 蓮花臺) is a historic Buddhist temple in Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam. It is regarded alongside the Perfume Temple, as one of Vietnam's two most iconic temples.
Resembling the Opéra Palais Garnier, Hanoi Opera House, built in 10 years since 1911 by two French architects. The magnificent building became one of the top landmarks in Hanoi. The Opera House hosts cultural entertaining performances, bamboo cirque, contemporary dance, orchestra concerts and government events. Come to the front gate to check availability and ticket to a performance in this iconic building.
This temple alongside Lake Hoan Kiem was built in the 19th century, and named after Saint Van Xuong. Confucian scholar Nguyen Van Sieu had a large pen-shaped tower built at the entrance of the temple in 1864, featuring three Chinese characters, Ta Thanh Thien, which literally means "to write on the blue sky is to imply the height of a genuine and righteous person's determination and will."
Chùa Trấn Quốc (or Tran Quoc Pagoda) is located beside the dazzling West Lake, on Thanh Nien Road, Hanoi. Particularly, it is seated on an island linked by a bridge to the causeway between the two most romantic lakes of Hanoi: West Lake and Truc Bach Lake.
The Long Bien bridge across the Red River connects Hanoi with the main port of Haiphong. Designed by Gustave Eiffel, the bridge sustained significant damage during the Vietnam War. Only half of the bridge retains its original shape, but a rebuilding project supported by the French government is currently in progress to restore the bridge to its original appearance.
In the heart of Hanoi’s Old Quarter, surrounded by history and charm, lies MF Spa Hanoi, a sanctuary of renewal and rejuvenation. Here, the East harmonizes with the West, and ancient philosophies meet contemporary techniques to create an unparalleled healing experience. This haven of tranquility blends advanced global therapies with regional holistic traditions, drawing on nature's local treasures to restore balance and provide an extraordinary opportunity for deep relaxation and recovery. For an unforgettable romantic experience, MF Spa Hanoi boasts a luxurious treatment room designed for couples, where lovebirds can cherish each other's company amidst serenity and peace. MF Spa Hanoi—truly relax.
This museum was opened in 1966. Though in need of updating, some interesting artifacts are on display in its three floors organized chronologically.
Nestled in Hanoi’s Old Quarter, this narrow alley attracts travelers hoping to snap a picture on the active train track, and even catch a train whizz by! This alley is actually a residential area—many locals have converted their houses into quaint little cafes where you can sip on traditional egg coffee while waiting for the train to pass by—which happens a handful of times throughout the day. Be careful though, as the street can get really busy. Explore Train Street and other backstreets and alleyways of Hanoi on a tour with a local guide. They'll help you take photos, too! – Tripadvisor
In the heart of Hanoi’s Old Quarter, surrounded by history and charm, lies MF Boutique Spa, a sanctuary of renewal and rejuvenation. Here, the East harmonizes with the West, and ancient philosophies meet contemporary techniques to create an unparalleled healing experience. This haven of tranquility blends advanced global therapies with regional holistic traditions, drawing on nature's local treasures to restore balance and provide an extraordinary opportunity for deep relaxation and recovery. For an unforgettable romantic experience, MF Boutique boasts a luxurious treatment room designed for couples, where lovebirds can cherish each other's company amidst serenity and peace. MF Boutique Spa—truly relax.
Welcome to the Imperial Citadel of Thang Long – Hanoi! Situated at the heart of Hanoi, the Central Sector of the Imperial Citadel of Thang Long is an outstanding place of interest not only for the capital city but also for the country as a whole. The site is one of the ten special national heritage sites proclaimed by the Prime Minister in 2009 and was inscribed on the World Heritage List by UNESCO’s World Heritage Committee in 2010. Its Outstanding Universal Values are reflected in its historical longevity, its continuous role as a seat of power, and its multiple cultural layers. The World Heritage Site comprises two sections: the archaeological site at 18 Hoang Dieu Street and the central axis of the Nguyen Dynasty’s Citadel of Hanoi, which together create an integrated heritage complex. This was the most important sector of Thang Long Citadel, the capital of Dai Viet under the Ly, Tran, and Le dynasties from the 11th to the 18th centuries. It was also the core of the earlier Dai
Silks, silver and souvenirs draw tourists to this popular street market.
Water Puppetry is a traditional art form with distinctive culture identity of Vietnam. It came into existence, developed and diversified over a thousand years ago in the Red River Delta. Thanks to unique performances on the water, this puppetry art is famous and highly appreciated all over the world. In early days, water puppetry showed the daily life of villagers such as farming, fishing, romance and children playing. Now, the topics of the plays are also picked from ancient legends, myths and historic stages.
Duong Lam is a commune of Son Tay town, Hanoi, Vietnam. Duong Lam becomes the first ancient village in Vietnam. Two of Vietnam’s kings, Phung Hung (761-802) and Ngo Quyen (896-944) were born in Duong Lam, giving the village its prestige. Both men led resistance wars against northern invasion and after winning national independence, were crowned kings. After their deaths, the local people built tem
The Lotte Observation Deck is on the 65F, 267m high from the ground with large space.We have the Photo Zone in B1F, the Photo Counter and the Photo at Skywalk in the 65F so you can taking and buying photo, including photo frame. The Media Gallery is exciting, including Inner U&I machine to test the romantic degree for couple. We also have the Lotteria and Angel In Us Coffee
Nestled in the heart of Hanoi, VEGAS-M E-Gaming Club has been the premier entertainment destination for the expatriate community in Vietnam since 2006. Our doors are open 24/7, offering friendly service and a luxurious e-gaming experience. Enjoy state-of-the-art electronic gaming machines and dive into thrilling games such as slots, roulette, baccarat, and blackjack. VEGAS-M E-Gaming Club ensures an unparalleled and sophisticated gaming experience like never before!
Located in the heart of Hanoi, Green Palm Gallery - 39 Hang Gai, Hanoi is considered one of the most famous and prestigious art galleries in Vietnam, showcasing a curated collection of original Vietnamese lacquer paintings, oil paintings and sculpture. Established since 1996, Green Palm Gallery has become an ideal destination for domestic and foreign collectors. Conveniently located on Hanoi Old Quarter, our gallery is a must-visit destination for art lovers and travelers looking to discover authentic Vietnamese culture through art. We offer unique Arts and professional international packing and shipping services for customers worldwide Address: 39 Hang Gai, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi, Vietnam.
Food & Drink
Indulge in the iconic Vietnamese noodle dishes, Pho and Bun Cha. These local delicacies are a must-try for any food lover visiting Hanoi.
Phở Bò Hồ Lợi is renowned for its exceptionally tender beef that has been marinated and simmered for over 18 hours, resulting in a light yet flavorful broth. The restaurant's commitment to quality ingredients and preparation methods makes it a must-visit for food enthusiasts.
This buffet offers an extensive variety of dishes, including fresh seafood grilled on wood coal and a wide selection of meats, all for a mid-range price. The quality is high, with clean presentation and a diverse menu that caters to both adventurous eaters and those seeking familiar Vietnamese cuisine.
Insider tip Explore the outdoor seating area for a more authentic experience and try the Malatang station where they prepare the soup on-site.
Oc Di Tu is a must-visit spot for food lovers in Hanoi, offering a variety of Vietnamese snails and local seafood dishes. The garlic butter snails are particularly recommended.
A bowl of Hanoi-style Pho is quite simple, usually consisting of rice noodles, a clear broth, beef or chicken, and green onions. Known for its rich history and unique taste, this dish is a must-try for food enthusiasts visiting the city.
This restaurant is a legendary spot in Hanoi, famous for its smoky charcoal-grilled pork. Obama himself has tried it, making it an unmissable experience for food enthusiasts and history buffs alike.
Bun Cha 34 is a must-try street food destination in Hanoi, known for its delicious and authentic Vietnamese noodle soup. The restaurant's location on Hàng Than Street ensures you get the true taste of local cuisine.
Banh Cuon is a must-try dish in Hanoi, known for its delicate layers of rice flour and savory fillings. The post highlights the authenticity of trying this traditional Vietnamese delicacy through local food tours.
This restaurant is known for its packed seating and limited menu, which are strong indicators of quality. The unique setup with the kitchen upstairs and chickens outside adds to the authenticity and charm.
Insider tip Order their signature dishes and enjoy the unique atmosphere.
This restaurant, located near the Hanoi city train station, is a hidden gem recommended by locals for its packed and authentic atmosphere. The kitchen being upstairs with an elevator for food delivery adds to its unique charm.
Insider tip Look out for chickens outside the establishment as it's a sign of authenticity.
The Xôi Yến restaurant is highly recommended by locals, especially for those who prefer traditional and authentic Vietnamese cuisine. The dog working there, known to be fat due to regular feeding, adds a unique charm to the place.
Insider tip Visit during off-peak hours to avoid crowds and try their signature dishes.
Pho Q is a restaurant that has garnered attention for its name, which sounds like an expletive in English but turns out to be a legitimate establishment serving good pho. It's worth visiting for the cultural experience and potentially delicious food.
This is the author's absolute favorite Bun Cha restaurant, which they have been eating for years. The crispy cha gio is particularly noteworthy and worth the price.
Monito’s Taqueria is a highly recommended spot for those craving authentic Mexican cuisine, especially the al pastor tacos and pollo asado. The consomee, which is the best part of the meal, is also praised by many visitors.
Insider tip Try the al pastor tacos and don't forget to order the consomee sauce on the side for an extra flavor boost.
bun suong is a unique and delicious Vietnamese dish, often considered the cousin of bun rieu. It's a must-try for food enthusiasts visiting Hanoi, especially in D4 district, where it's highly recommended by locals.
Tré, a type of nem chua from the central region of Vietnam, is another local specialty that offers an authentic taste and cultural experience. This dish involves rolling shredded meat with leaves and dipping it into sauce.
This dish, nem chua, is a local specialty in central Vietnam that offers an unexpected and authentic culinary experience. The dish involves rolling shredded meat with leaves and dipping it into sauce, providing a unique taste and cultural insight.
Nem rán, a fried version of the eggroll found in northern Vietnam, offers a different culinary experience. This dish is often enjoyed by locals and provides insight into regional Vietnamese cuisine.
Discover must-eat food spots that offer a taste of authentic Vietnamese cuisine, from street food to local delicacies, ensuring an unforgettable culinary journey.
Street Food
Explore the vibrant and historic Old Quarter of Hanoi, where you can immerse yourself in local culture by sampling street food and visiting museums.
Train Street in Hà Nội offers a unique and vibrant experience with the opportunity to watch trains and capture stunning visuals. The area is filled with local cafes where you can grab some mid-range street food, making it perfect for solo travelers or groups looking for an adventure and cultural immersion.
Insider tip Read reviews on Google Maps beforehand to find the best spots for both watching the trains and enjoying local cuisine.
Experience the authentic and vibrant street food culture of Hanoi by skipping hotel breakfasts. Explore the prettiest alleys for a unique and local dining experience.
Insider tip Try the chicken shoots at one of the local eateries in these alleys.
Experience the unique local street food culture in Hanoi, where vendors yell at each other while serving up delicious stir-fried glass noodles with beef and cute little fried crab spring rolls. This is a must-see for food enthusiasts looking for an authentic Vietnam experience.
Insider tip Arrive early to avoid the crowds and get a better seat to watch the show.
Bách Khoa is a vibrant street food spot in Hanoi that offers a unique cultural experience. The area is known for its lively atmosphere and delicious local dishes, making it perfect for friends or families looking to explore the city's culinary scene.
Hanoi Beer Street is a lively and efficient street food experience where tables magically disappear when the police arrive, only to reappear once they leave. This unique and chaotic atmosphere makes it an unforgettable adventure for visitors.
This bustling street in Hanoi is a must-visit for food enthusiasts, offering a vibrant and authentic taste of local cuisine. The narrow alleyway is lined with small eateries serving traditional Vietnamese dishes at budget-friendly prices.
Nước Mía, or sugarcane juice, is a popular street food in Vietnam that can be enjoyed by the whole family. The post recommends trying this traditional drink for its delicious taste and cultural significance.
Hanoi Train Street is a vibrant and colorful market where you can find a variety of street food and local goods. It's a great place to experience the local culture and try some budget-friendly treats.
Experience
Train Street in Hanoi is a unique cultural experience where locals can show you how to make your own souvenirs. This activity offers an authentic taste of local culture and allows travelers to create memorable keepsakes.
Experience the unique tradition of custom stamp making in Hanoi, where you can create personalized stamps featuring your family's pets and loved ones. This activity is budget-friendly, with a cost of about $10 per person or pet, and offers a quick turnaround time for same-day or next-day delivery.
The Hanoi Street Train offers a unique and thrilling experience for travelers, providing an intimate look at the city's vibrant street life. It’s a must-try for those seeking a cultural adventure in Vietnam.
The Hanoi zoo offers a unique cultural experience, but visitors should be aware that the ticketing process can be confusing and potentially misleading. A user reported being charged an extra amount for a single ticket, which was unexpected.
Heads up Visitors may encounter issues with ticket pricing and payment methods at the zoo; it's advisable to clarify the cost before purchasing tickets.
Sapa Village offers a unique experience living in the village, immersing oneself in local culture and nature. The package includes accommodation, activities, and food, making it an all-encompassing adventure.
The Ha Giang Loop is a scenic and adventurous route that offers stunning landscapes, cultural experiences, and the chance to explore lesser-known parts of Vietnam. It's perfect for those who want both excitement and relaxation.
Insider tip Join guided tours or social groups to maximize your chances of making new friends during this loop.
Explore the stunning Ha Giang Loop, a scenic route that takes you through picturesque landscapes and offers unique cultural experiences with local communities.
Market
Experience the lively atmosphere of Hanoi's night market, where you can find a variety of goods and local crafts. It’s a great place to shop for souvenirs or just explore.
This market is a unique gemstone and crystal market that opens every Sunday in Hanoi. It's a must-visit for collectors, offering a wide variety of rare finds from the gemstone capital of Vietnam, Lutian.
Insider tip Visit around 12 p.m. to 1 p.m. when vendors are more willing to lower their prices and you might score some amazing deals.
The Fake Market in Hanoi is a unique shopping experience where you can find counterfeit Arcteryx jackets at inflated prices. The market offers an interesting glimpse into local commerce and the tactics used by vendors to sell their products, making it a must-visit for those interested in cultural experiences and street markets.
Insider tip Be prepared to haggle as the initial price is often double what you will end up paying.
Heads up The Fake Market can be misleading with high prices for counterfeit goods. Be cautious of the quality, especially when dealing with vendors who claim top-quality products are made from rubber and plastic.
Experience the vibrant morning life in Hanoi's Old Quarter, where you can see vendors, buyers, and people moving about. Start your day with a meal from street food stalls before exploring the area. Witness the blend of French colonial churches and Chinese temples, reflecting the city’s rich history.
Insider tip Try to visit early morning for the best experience when the streets are lively and bustling.
Bar
Experience the vibrant and lively nightlife of Bui Vien Walking Street, where you can enjoy cheap drinks, street performances, and backpacker vibes all night long. This is Vietnam's version of Khao San Road or Bangla Road, but even wilder.
Insider tip Arrive early in the evening to avoid the crowds and find a quieter spot for a more relaxed experience.
Spy Bar is a friendly bar in the Old Quarter of Hanoi, offering a good chance to meet someone to talk with after 10pm. It's a place where solo travelers or friends can find companionship and enjoy a relaxing evening.
Puku is a highly recommended bar in Hanoi for football fans, known for its great atmosphere and late-night hours that allow you to watch all the matches. The place keeps open throughout the night, making it perfect for staying up with the games.
Temple
Explore the oldest Buddhist temple in Hanoi, located on West Lake. The serene and historic pagoda offers a spiritual experience and stunning views of the surrounding water.
Experience the historical and spiritual significance of Vietnam's oldest university, surrounded by lush gardens and ancient stone carvings. This UNESCO site offers a deep dive into Vietnamese cultural heritage.
Hotel
The Dolce Hanoi Golden Lake is a fully gold-plated hotel, offering an unparalleled luxury experience in the heart of Hanoi. This unique and visually stunning accommodation is a must-visit for those seeking opulence and grandeur.
Stay at [Property Name] for a comfortable and centrally located Airbnb in Hanoi, Vietnam. The property offers a great base to explore the city's rich cultural heritage and historical landmarks.
Insider tip Comment or DM me this reel if you want more information on the Airbnb listing.
Hostel
Quiri Hostel in Hanoi offers a unique social experience for solo travelers, connecting you with like-minded individuals through its welcoming atmosphere and diverse community.
Insider tip Bring your sense of adventure and be open to meeting new people as the hostel is known for fostering a lively and engaging environment.
Wellness
The jjimjilbang in Vincom Mega Mall offers a unique and ticklish experience that combines relaxation with a playful sensation, making it an unforgettable visit for solo travelers or friends looking to unwind.
Tourist Attraction
This tour offers a unique behind-the-scenes look at Hanoi's Michelin-starred restaurants, providing an intimate experience of the city’s culinary scene. It's a must-try for food enthusiasts and culture seekers.
Airport
Noi Bai International Airport is ranked 273rd among the world's best airports, providing a relatively good travel experience. However, immigration queues are often problematic due to outdated technology.
Insider tip Be prepared for long immigration queues and plan accordingly.
Mountain
Embark on the challenging Fansipan Trek, a rewarding journey to Vietnam's highest peak where you can enjoy breathtaking views and immerse yourself in the local culture.
Spa
Lynntimes Thanh Thủy is a highly recommended onsen spa located across the river from Ba Vi National Park, offering various baths and saunas for a relaxing day trip.
Heads up It's not worth staying overnight at this hotel. It may be better to visit during weekdays rather than weekends.
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