Things to do in Hanoi

Activities, attractions and tours

Photo provided by PhotoJoy
Photo provided by PhotoJoy
Temple of Literature which includes interior views, religious elements and a temple or place of worship
Hoan Kiem Lake which includes a lake or waterhole, heritage architecture and a monument
Hanoi showing a city, signage and street scenes
Hoan Kiem Lake which includes a lake or waterhole

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Most popular experiences in Hanoi

Tours & day trips

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Top Tier: All-Inclusive OVERNIGHT Halong Cruises - many options

Top Tier: All-Inclusive OVERNIGHT Halong Cruises - many options

Activity duration is 2 days
7.6 out of 10 with 6 reviews
Free cancellation available
Price is P 11,368 per adult*
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Private & custom tours

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Hue: Private Transfer to/from Hoi An with Many Scenic Stops

Hue: Private Transfer to/from Hoi An with Many Scenic Stops

Activity duration is 5 hours
Free cancellation available
Price is P 1,514 per adult
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Classes & workshops

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From Hanoi: Ha Long & Lan Ha Bay 2-Day Cruise with Meals

From Hanoi: Ha Long & Lan Ha Bay 2-Day Cruise with Meals

Activity duration is 2 days
Free cancellation available
Price is P 7,938 per adult*
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Shows & concerts

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Hanoi: Water Puppet Show Tickets

Hanoi: Water Puppet Show Tickets

Activity duration is 50 minutes
7.6 out of 10 with 4 reviews
Free cancellation available
Price is P 400 per adult
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Spa & wellness

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From Hanoi: 2-Day Ninh Binh Tour with Ha Long Bay Cruise

From Hanoi: 2-Day Ninh Binh Tour with Ha Long Bay Cruise

Activity duration is 2 days
Free cancellation available
Price is P 5,630 per adult
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What to do in Hanoi

Popular places to visit

Hoan Kiem Lake featuring a monument, a lake or waterhole and heritage architecture

Hoan Kiem Lake

Wander around the banks of this peaceful lake and discover an historic temple, observe locals going about their daily life or enjoy a picnic lunch under the shade.

Hoan Kiem Lake
Tran Quoc Pagoda

West Lake

Commune with nature and explore the great outdoors at West Lake during your travels in Hanoi. Amble around this culturally rich area's lakeside, or seek out the local tours.

West Lake
Hanoi Opera House showing heritage architecture and theater scenes

Hanoi Opera House

This historic building is the centrepiece of Hanoi’s French Quarter and host to shows by many of Vietnam’s premier singers, dancers and musicians.

Hanoi Opera House
St. Joseph Cathedral featuring heritage elements, markets and heritage architecture

St. Joseph's Cathedral of Hanoi

At the heart of Hanoi stands a weathered neo-Gothic Roman Catholic church, a contrary sight in this predominantly Buddhist city.

St. Joseph's Cathedral of Hanoi
Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum featuring a park and a monument

Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum

This massive tomb houses the embalmed body of Ho Chi Minh, a former Vietnamese president.

Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum
Dong Xuan Market which includes markets, a city and street scenes

Dong Xuan Market

Browse hundreds of stalls in Hanoi’s biggest marketplace in the heart of the Old Quarter.

Dong Xuan Market
Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre which includes performance art, theater scenes and interior views

Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre

Stories from local legends are told at this theatre with hand-carved wooden dolls and colourful dragons that perform on a stage on the water.

Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre
Hanoi Old City Gate which includes night scenes and street scenes

Quan Chuong Gate

The attractive shape of the only city gate remaining in Hanoi harks back to a time when the city was under siege.

Quan Chuong Gate
Train Street

Train Street

You can take time to visit Train Street during your travels to Hanoi. Make time for the shops and local tours in this culturally rich area.

Train Street

Areas of Hanoi

Hanoi featuring street scenes

Old Quarter

A noteworthy feature of Old Quarter is its panoramic lake views. While you're in town, be sure to stop and check out Hoan Kiem Lake and Hang Gai Street.

Old Quarter
Old Quarter - Hoan Kiem Lake showing a city, motorbike riding and signage

Hoan Kiem

4.5/5(17 area reviews)

The historic centre of Hanoi, this maze of streets offers the city’s most traditional food, best souvenir shopping and lively nighttime entertainment.

Hoan Kiem
Hanoi featuring signage, night scenes and street scenes

French Quarter

The abundant dining options and lake views are top of the list for many visitors to French Quarter. A stop by Hoan Kiem Lake or Hanoi Municipal Party Committee might round out your trip.

French Quarter
Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum showing a monument and a park

Ba Dinh

4/5(1 area review)

The ample dining options and fantastic lake views are top of the list for many visitors to Ba Dinh. A stop by Ho Chi Minh Museum or Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum might round out your trip.

Ba Dinh
Tay Ho showing a lake or waterhole

Tay Ho

Escape the city and relax on the shores of Hanoi’s biggest lake. Enjoy local delicacies, gardens, historic sights, Buddhist temples and other attractions.

Tay Ho
St. Joseph Cathedral showing a city, religious aspects and a church or cathedral

Hang Trong

If you're spending some time in Hang Trong, Hoan Kiem Lake and Hang Gai Street are top sights worth seeing.

Hang Trong

Frequently asked questions

Is Hanoi worth visiting?
One of the most common things to do in Hanoi is visit Ta Hien Street. Check this leading sight off your itinerary, then experience more of the area's views and history.
How do I spend a day in Hanoi?
Ta Hien Street and Vietnam Military History Museum are two awesome places to begin your vacation adventures. Be sure to check out the dining and shopping options in Hanoi while you're there too.
What is the top tourist attraction in Hanoi?
The top tourist attraction in Hanoi is Ta Hien Street, so don't forget to add it to your agenda.
Is three days enough to stay in Hanoi?
Three days will give you enough time to tick off many city sights, including Ta Hien Street, Vietnam Military History Museum and Ho Tay Water Park. The average stay in Hanoi is three days. If you feel the urge to extend your getaway, Tay Ho isn't far away.
Is Hanoi a walkable city?
Some top attractions in Hanoi, such as Ta Hien Street and Vietnam Military History Museum, are within walking distance. You can also discover several of the city's popular neighborhoods on foot. Only 2 kilometers from central Hanoi is Hoan Kiem and Old Quarter is 2 kilometers away.
What are some activities to do in Hanoi with kids?
Whether you're traveling with young explorers or adventure-seeking teens, an itinerary filled with fun activities makes a big difference. Browse our recommendations for what to do in Hanoi with kids.

What to do in Hanoi for adults?
Train Street and Hang Ma Street are just a couple of the things to do in Hanoi. With loads of activities available, there's something here for everyone to explore.
Are there free things to do in Hanoi?
One of the easiest ways to find free things to do in Hanoi is to ask a local tour guide. You'll get insider views on interesting neighborhoods, parks and other hotspots you can experience without reaching into your pocket. Ta Hien Street is one spot that doesn't have an entrance fee.