Hanoi, the heart of Vietnam, offers an enchanting blend of ancient traditions and modern vibrancy. Strolling through the Old Quarter, you'll be captivated by narrow streets lined with colonial architecture and bustling markets. The aroma of street food wafts through the air, inviting you to savor local delights like pho and banh mi, each bite telling a story of rich culinary heritage. The city is steeped in history, with landmarks such as the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and the Temple of Literature showcasing Vietnam's profound cultural roots. Don't miss a leisurely walk around Hoan Kiem Lake, where locals practice tai chi at dawn, creating a serene atmosphere amidst the urban buzz. Art enthusiasts will appreciate Hanoi's thriving art scene, with galleries featuring contemporary works alongside traditional crafts. The city's vibrant nightlife, from rooftop bars to lively street performances, ensures there's always something happening after sunset. For a unique experience, consider visiting during the Tet Festival, when the city transforms with colorful decorations and festive activities. Hanoi is not just a destination; it's a captivating experience that leaves a lasting impression. Did you know that Hanoi is home to one of the oldest universities in Asia, founded in 1070? This rich educational history adds another layer to the city’s charm.
Hanoi, Vietnam
15 Best Things to Do in Hanoi
Start with these 15 and you have seen the Hanoi that travelers rate highest.
We rank by how many travelers reviewed each place, across the 99 we track here. Updated monthly.
Old Quarter
NeighborhoodFree entryThe Old Quarter is the chaotic, intoxicating heart of Hanoi, a dense tangle of narrow streets where, traditionally, each lane specialised in a single trade, a pattern you can still read in street…
Read our full guide →Temple Of Literature
Religious siteThe Temple of Literature (Văn Miếu) in Hanoi is a beautifully preserved complex that served as Vietnam's first national university, founded in 1076.
Read our full guide →Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre
LandmarkThang Long Water Puppet Theatre is a beloved cultural landmark in Hanoi, located near Hoan Kiem Lake in the city's Old Quarter.
Read our full guide →Hoa Lo Prison Relic
MuseumHoa Lo Prison, originally built by the French colonial authorities in the late 19th century, is a haunting museum in central Hanoi that tells the story of Vietnam's fight for independence.
Read our full guide →Ho Chi Minh's Mausoleum
LandmarkFree entryHo Chi Minh's Mausoleum is a solemn, monumental structure in the heart of Hanoi where the embalmed body of the revered Vietnamese leader lies in state.
Read our full guide →Hanoi Zoo
Park & natureHanoi Zoo, also known as Thủ Lệ Park, is a long-standing attraction in the city that combines a zoo with a public park.
Read our full guide →Vietnam Museum of Ethnology
MuseumThe Vietnam Museum of Ethnology is a leading museum in Hanoi dedicated to the 54 officially recognized ethnic groups of Vietnam.
Read our full guide →Hoàn Kiếm Lake
Park & natureHoàn Kiếm Lake, or Lake of the Returned Sword, is a serene oasis in the bustling heart of Hanoi.
Read our full guide →West Lake (Hanoi)
Park & natureWest Lake is Hanoi's largest freshwater lake, stretching 17 km around and covering 500 hectares northwest of the city center.
Read our full guide →Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum
LandmarkThe Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum is a monumental granite structure in Ba Dinh Square where the embalmed body of Ho Chi Minh lies in a glass case.
Read our full guide →Temple of Literature, Hanoi
Religious siteThe Temple of Literature in Hanoi is a well-preserved complex dedicated to Confucius, sages, and scholars.
Read our full guide →Hỏa Lò Prison
MuseumHỏa Lò Prison, built by the French between 1896 and 1901, was originally used to hold Vietnamese political prisoners.
Read our full guide →Hanoi Old Quarter
LandmarkFree entryHanoi Old Quarter is the historic commercial heart of Vietnam's capital, a dense network of 36 ancient streets dating back to the 13th century.
Read our full guide →Apron Up Cooking Class
MarketApron Up Cooking Class is the highest-rated food and drink experience in Hanoi, located in the bustling Old Quarter.
Read our full guide →Vietnam National Fine Arts Museum
MuseumThe Vietnam National Fine Arts Museum is a premier cultural institution in Hanoi, housing an extensive collection of Vietnamese art from prehistoric times to the present.
Read our full guide →
That covers the heavyweights. Browse by category for the rest.
Attractions & sights
Landmarks, museums, neighborhoods
99 places →Restaurants
Where to eat
Explore →Day trips
Escapes near the city
Coming soonExperiences & tours
Book things to do
Coming soonPhoto spots
Best views
Coming soonWellness
Spas & relaxation
Coming soonOff the beaten path
12 hidden gems in Hanoi
Like Be Wellness Spa and Serene Spa, loved by reviewers, skipped by tour groups.
See them →Get outdoors
12 outdoor adventures near Hanoi
Hanoi Zoo (4 km away) and more, all within 100 km.
Explore →After dark
15 best bars & nightlife spots
Cloud Sky Bar Hanoi and Solar Sky Bar lead the night.
Go out →For the kids
11 things to do with kids
Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre and more the whole crew will rate.
Bring them →Date night
8 romantic spots for couples
Hanoi Zoo at two-person pace.
Slow down →Costs nothing
15 free things to do in Hanoi
Verified free entry, Old Quarter included.
Spend nothing →Rather have a human do the planning? A Local Friend in Hanoi can build your days for you, at local prices.