Hanoi Attractions
Start with Hoan Kiem Lake and the Old Quarter, then add cultural sites that interest you. Leave room for coffee, meals and unhurried walks rather than trying to cover the whole city in a day.
Found 19 attractions
Imperial Citadel of Thang Long
Many people think that Hanoi only has Hoan Kiem Lake and the...
Temple of Literature
Do you know where the exquisite red pavilion on the Vietname...
Hoàn Kiếm Lake and Ngọc Sơn Temple
In the evening, Hoàn Kiếm Lake is very different from during...
Hoa Lo Prison Relic
"Many people walking on the bustling streets of Hanoi find i...
St. Joseph's Cathedral
Many people visit Hanoi with the intention of exploring the...
Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre
If you want to experience a unique liquid stage art in Hanoi...
Vietnam Military History Museum
Many people visiting Hanoi think that the military museum is...
Hanoi Opera House
Did you know that the yellow opera house in Hanoi, filled wi...
Lotte Center Hanoi
For your first trip to Hanoi, if you want to combine shoppin...
Ba Dinh Square
If you want to experience the most solemn and expansive hear...
Hanoi Train Street
If you're visiting the Hanoi Old Quarter for the first time...
Vincom Mega Mall Royal City
If you encounter afternoon thunderstorms or high summer temp...
Vinhomes Ocean Park
If you want to experience the contrast of modern urban life...
West Lake Flower Valley
If you're looking for a secret garden in the bustling city o...
Ta Hien Beer Street
During the day, Ta Hien Beer Street is a tranquil alley that...
Hanoi Old Quarter
When traveling freely in Hanoi, if you can only choose one p...
Quang Phu Cau Incense Village
In the outskirts of Hanoi, Quang Phu Cau Incense Village is...
Vietnam Museum of Ethnology
If you're looking to experience the diverse clothing, cultur...
Long Biên Bridge
Many visitors to Hanoi think of taking a stroll around Hoàn...
How to combine attractions
Explore nearby streets together; choose cultural stops selectively
Combine Hoan Kiem Lake with the Old Quarter, allowing breaks for food and coffee. Choose a starting point near your hotel and explore a manageable stretch of streets.
Set aside a separate part of your day for the Temple of Literature or cultural sites around Ba Dinh. Check opening days and transport before adding stops; fit West Lake in only if time allows.
Planning trips beyond the city
Plan Ninh Binh and Ha Long Bay as separate excursions rather than extra stops on an Old Quarter walk. Compare travel arrangements and activities before choosing a day trip or overnight stay.
Common planning questions
Can I walk everywhere in Hanoi?
Explore the Old Quarter and Hoan Kiem Lake in walking sections, with transport for West Lake or other cultural sites. Traffic, pavements and weather affect how comfortable a walk will be.
Where should I stay on a first visit?
Compare hotels around Hoan Kiem Lake and the Old Quarter for street exploration, or West Lake for a trip focused on that area and downtime. Check the exact location, noise reviews and transport options.
How should I adapt for rain or older travellers?
Shorten walking stretches, add indoor visits and rest breaks, and use transport between areas. Check steps, facilities and opening arrangements before setting out.
Where do travellers commonly look for currency exchange in Hanoi?
Ha Trung Street near the Old Quarter is a frequently mentioned area. Start by checking:
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Quốc Trinh Map — Quốc Trinh
27 Ha Trung; confirm current opening and accepted currencies before visiting.
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Banks / Noi Bai Airport counters
Exchange a small amount for arrival expenses, then compare city banks and official counters.
A listed name does not guarantee opening, authorisation or the best rate. Check fees and the amount you will receive.
How should I get around Hanoi? Should I start with Grab?
For a first visit, start with Grab: enter your pickup and destination to see vehicle options and the estimated fare.
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GrabCar — first choice
Useful for airport trips, luggage, older companions and journeys between areas. Check the app and terminal pickup instructions.
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GrabBike
An option for solo short trips without bulky luggage, depending on weather and your comfort with motorbikes.
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Walking + taxis
Walk the Old Quarter and Hoan Kiem area in sections; use a car for West Lake or distant sights. Confirm the plate and destination.
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Buses / Metro
Useful if the route fits. Consider the Cat Linh–Ha Dong Metro line, checking the distance from stations to your sights.
GrabCar and GrabTaxi may use different fare methods. Check airport, road and other charges in the app.
Which local foods is Hanoi known for?
Start with a few of these Hanoi flavours:
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Phở
Beef or chicken noodle soup for breakfast or a main meal.
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Bún chả
Grilled pork with rice noodles, herbs and dipping sauce.
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Bánh cuốn
Soft steamed rice rolls, often filled with minced meat and mushrooms.
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Chả cá
A Hanoi fish dish often served with dill, spring onions and rice noodles.
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Cà phê trứng
Rich egg coffee for a break during a walk.
Recipes vary. Ask about meat, fish sauce, eggs, dairy and other ingredients if you have dietary restrictions.
Which Hanoi markets should I visit for shopping?
Choose by what you want to buy; you do not need to visit them all.
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Dong Xuan Market | Chợ Đồng Xuân Map — Dong Xuan Market | Chợ Đồng Xuân
Traditional market browsing for clothing, everyday goods and small items.
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Old Quarter weekend night market | Hang Dao–Dong Xuan Map — Old Quarter weekend night market | Hang Dao–Dong Xuan
For an evening stroll, small souvenirs and street stalls; check the current event arrangements.
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Hang Da Market | Chợ Hàng Da Map — Hang Da Market | Chợ Hàng Da
An indoor-market option for clothing; check which stalls are operating.
Confirm unit price, quantity and currency, and check seals and expiry dates on packaged food.
Do I need cash in Hanoi, or can I use cards and QR payments?
Keep some dong and small notes for Old Quarter food stalls, traditional markets and small transport expenses. Ask hotels, malls and restaurants whether they accept international cards. A QR code does not necessarily work with an overseas payment app. If a card terminal offers a currency choice, check the conversion rate and fees before deciding.