Discover 16 distinct activities to engage in while exploring Hanoi
1.Embark on a captivating journey around Hoan Kiem Lake
Indulge in a refreshing retreat from the bustling energy of Hanoi by venturing towards Hoan Kiem Lake. Nestled to the east of the historic Old Quarter, this picturesque lake serves as a serene oasis amidst the city's vibrant atmosphere. At its northern edge lies Ngoc Son Temple, gracefully perched on a small island with a scenic connection to the shore through the captivating scarlet Cau The Huc bridge. As dawn breaks, witness the lakeside come alive with locals engaging in invigorating tai chi sessions. During weekends, when traffic is restricted from 7pm to midnight, the area transforms into a lively funfair-like setting, amplifying the excitement and enchantment surrounding Hoan Kiem Lake.
2.Explore the Depths of the Old Quarter
Nestled in Hanoi's Ba Dinh district, adjacent to the bustling business area, lies the captivating Old Quarter—an irresistible sensory experience. This vibrant neighborhood captivates visitors with its dynamic atmosphere, where swarms of motorbikes skillfully navigate around locals donning traditional conical straw hats, busily maneuvering carts laden with goods along streets adorned with elegant French colonial architecture. If you arrive early in the morning, you'll witness the breathtaking spectacle of ethereal hues gently cast upon the time-worn facades as diligent locals prepare their shops for the day ahead. To truly immerse yourself in the charm of the quarter's 36 streets and indulge in its culinary delights, consider joining a guided walking food tour led by a knowledgeable local guide.
3.Exploring the finest bun cha delicacy: A quest for culinary excellence
Unveiling the Legendary Status of Hanoi's Bun Cha: A Culinary Tribute to Anthony Bourdain and Barack Obama
When esteemed chef Anthony Bourdain selected Hanoi's bun cha as a treat for former President Barack Obama, it became evident that this dish holds a remarkable place in the culinary world. Their memorable meal at the humble eatery, Bún Chả Hương Liên, in 2016 has since transformed it into a legendary establishment.
The allure of Hanoi's bun cha extends beyond this iconic dining experience. As we delve into the realm of this quintessential bowl featuring succulent grilled pork, aromatic herbs, and satisfying noodles, we begin to unravel the true essence of its exceptional nature.
4.Enjoy the Mesmerizing Artistry of a Water Puppet Performance
Vietnamese water puppetry is a unique art form that originated in the 11th century. In Hanoi, visitors shouldn't miss the Thang Long Water Puppet Theater, which hosts multiple shows per day in the city center. Skilled puppeteers maneuver wooden figurines over pools of water, creating captivating three-dimensional effects with water splashes. It's a must-see experience to immerse yourself in the cultural heritage of Vietnam.
5.Admire the Magnificence of St. Joseph Cathedral
Situated between the Old Quarter and Hoan Kiem Lake, St. Joseph Cathedral is a remarkable architectural marvel that has become synonymous with Hanoi. Constructed in 1886, this cathedral boasts a neo-Gothic design inspired by the renowned Notre-Dame Cathedral in Paris. As the oldest church in the capital city of Vietnam, St. Joseph Cathedral plays a significant role in serving the local Catholic community. While visitors are only permitted to enter the church during mass, which occurs daily at 6:15pm on weekdays and multiple times on Sundays, its exterior alone leaves a lasting impression on all who pass by.
6.Master the Art of Road Crossing
Crossing the bustling streets of Hanoi may seem overwhelming initially, but it can also be seen as an immersive cultural experience. To navigate the traffic, it is essential to remain calm and predictable. Moving steadily allows drivers to anticipate your movements, and honking is a polite way for motorists to alert pedestrians.
The most challenging part is taking the first step off the sidewalk, requiring courage and trust in the flow of traffic. However, once you start walking, you'll notice that Hanoians are accommodating and skilled at maneuvering around pedestrians.
Being aware of your surroundings and making eye contact with drivers is crucial while crossing. This establishes mutual understanding and ensures a smoother experience. With time, patience, and following these guidelines, crossing Hanoi's lively streets can become an enjoyable part of your cultural adventure in this vibrant city.
7. Quench Your Thirst on a Budget: Sip the World's Most Affordable Beer
In the heart of Hanoi lies bia hoi, renowned as "the world's most affordable beer," with prices ranging from 5000 to 7000VND per glass (equivalent to US$0.22 to 0.31). Crafted from fermented maize, this unique beverage is savored by locals and visitors alike, as they gather on the roadside, comfortably seated on humble plastic stools, engrossed in casual conversations. The bustling epicenter for bia hoi enthusiasts is none other than the Beer Corner, a vibrant intersection where Tha Hien and Luong Ngoc Quyen converge in the Old Quarter. Here, you'll be greeted by a lively scene of red plastic chairs filled with locals, tourists, and the enchanting aura of their shared tales of enjoyment.
Prime Minister of Australia, Anthony Albanese, Relishes a Bia Hoi Experience
8.Explore a Wide Array of Banh Mi Delights
Banh mi, a Vietnamese sandwich born in Saigon, has become a foodie obsession globally. Sold from street carts, it's now enjoyed as a hearty meal. Hanoi is a banh mi playground, with Bahn Mi 25 in Hoan Kiem District being one of the best spots, offering vegan and vegetarian options too. Banh mi's rise from humble beginnings to culinary fame showcases its allure and ability to captivate food enthusiasts worldwide.
9. Embark on a Gastronomic Adventure: Savor the Exotic Delight of Son Tay's Ostrich Meat!
Surprisingly, ostrich farming has emerged as one of the most lucrative ventures in North Vietnam. Located near Son Tay, the Ba Vi mountains serve as a popular destination for Hanoi residents seeking a weekend escape. Here, adventurous food enthusiasts can savor the unique taste of African bird meat while still in Asia. Delightful culinary experiences await, with ostrich meat commonly prepared in delightful ways such as fried, shaped into meatloaf, or simmered alongside fresh vegetables in a delectable hot pot. For those who prefer more familiar flavors, Ba Vi offers an excellent alternative in the form of their locally raised hill chickens. These flavorful birds are expertly fried and paired with zesty fresh peppers, creating a delightful dining experience for visitors.
10.Check out the music and art scene
Hanoi offers a vibrant nightlife scene with various venues celebrating music and arts. Hanoi Rock City, established in 2010, is known for hosting live bands, experimental music, art events, and an open mic night every Wednesday. Savage, located in Tay Ho District and opened in 2016, has become the go-to electronic music club in the city, attracting both local and international DJs who spin the best house and techno beats.
If you're a fan of jazz, Binh Minh Jazz Club in the Old Quarter is the place to be. Here, you can enjoy live performances by talented local jazz ensembles while sipping on a fine selection of whiskey. Additionally, the Hanoi Social Club in Hoan Kiem is not only a favorite meeting spot throughout the day but also hosts regular arts events. It's a great place to socialize over coffee or beers while immersing yourself in the artistic atmosphere of the city.
"Binh Minh Jazz Club"
"Hanoi Social Club"
11.Seek Serenity at the Temple of Literature
The Temple of Literature, known as Van Mieu, was constructed in 1070 during the reign of Ly Thanh Tong to pay tribute to Confucius and served as Vietnam's inaugural national university. Its layout is tucked away within a walled compound, featuring five distinct courtyards. Today, it stands as a remarkable landmark in Hanoi, offering respite from the bustling city life. Visitors can enjoy moments of tranquility while exploring the meticulously maintained gardens or showing reverence at the altars dedicated to Confucius. With its serene ambiance, the Temple of Literature provides an ideal setting for contemplation and peaceful reflection.
12. Visit Vietnam’s Museum of Ethnology
The Museum of Ethnology in Vietnam, established in 1997, is a tribute to the country's 54 ethnic groups. This museum is especially beneficial for visitors seeking a condensed yet insightful exploration of anthropology. With an extensive collection of 15,000 artifacts and 42,000 photographs, it provides a comprehensive ethnographic journey through Vietnam's remarkably diverse nation. Moreover, the museum's gardens feature life-sized replicas of traditional houses from the prominent ethnic groups in Vietnam, offering visitors a unique outdoor experience.
13.Indulge in the traditional delight of egg coffee amidst the charm of Hanoi's Old Quarter
Egg yolk coffee, also known as ca phe trung, is a delightful Vietnamese beverage that originated in 1946 during an attempt to create cappuccino. Due to the scarcity of milk at that time, whisked egg yolks were ingeniously used as a substitute. This innovative technique resulted in a frothy, savory, and distinctly Vietnamese concoction that quickly gained popularity nationwide.
Although ca phe trung can be found in various cities across Vietnam, the birthplace of this unique drink is Cafe Giang located in Hanoi’s Old Quarter. To this day, the son of the original inventor continues to serve the authentic recipe at this iconic establishment. Another notable destination for coffee enthusiasts is The Note Cafe, which not only offers exceptional coffee but also features walls adorned with thousands of handwritten messages left by patrons from around the globe. This cafe provides a truly photogenic and memorable experience.
14.Discover the fascinating world of Do Paper through the Zó Project
Located south of Hanoi's West Lake, the Zó Project is a small boutique that specializes in creating unique handmade products using Vietnamese Dó paper, also known as giấy Dó. The production process involves ancient techniques that have been passed down for generations, utilizing the bark of the indigenous Rhamnoneuron balansae tree. Known for its durability and strength, this fibrous paper is said to have a lifespan of up to 800 years.
Founded in 2013 by Tran Hong Nhung, the Zó Project is a social enterprise with the mission of preserving the traditional art of Dó paper-making. They achieve this by working closely with the only two remaining families of skilled artisans in the village of Bac Ninh, located approximately 25 miles (40km) northeast of Hanoi. Through their collaboration, the Zó Project aims to support these artisans and ensure the continuation of this cultural heritage.
15.Experience the thrill of indulging in rice liquor along Train Street's narrow railway tracks
Immerse yourself in a unique Hanoi tradition by enjoying a glass of rice liquor along the charming and narrow railway tracks of Train Street.
Since 2018, it has become a customary ritual for tourists to relish this experience on Tran Phu road in the Old Quarter. Train Street, as it is fondly known, encompasses approximately 300 meters (984 feet) of the city's railway line. What was once a row of residential homes has now transformed into delightful cafes that spill out onto the tracks, tempting visitors with their offerings of drinks and cozy ambience. However, due to safety concerns, local authorities attempted to shut down these establishments in October 2019. Nevertheless, some cafes have managed to continue operating discreetly.
To fully appreciate the authenticity of local life, it is recommended to visit Train Street when trains are not approaching. By avoiding the crowds, one can take in the surroundings and observe the genuine rhythm of daily life unfolding on both sides of this narrow railway track. This hidden gem provides a fascinating glimpse into the local culture while savoring a glass of rice liquor, making it a memorable experience for travelers seeking something truly unique in Hanoi.
16.Embark on an enchanting journey through the breathtaking rice terraces of Tam Coc
One of the most popular day trips from Hanoi is a visit to the Tràng An Scenic Landscape Complex in Ninh Binh province. Located approximately three hours away from the capital, this UNESCO-inscribed site offers stunning jade-green valleys surrounded by limestone karsts and bordered by the meandering channels of the Red River Delta.
The village of Tam Coc is a must-visit, known for its viewpoints that offer breathtaking views of ever-changing shades of paddy fields. Taking a slow boat ride along the Ngo Dong River is also highly recommended. To fully appreciate the scenic beauty without the crowds, spending at least a night in this area is advisable.
Another notable attraction is the Mua Cave viewpoint, which requires a sweaty climb of 486 steps to reach the top of an impressive limestone mountain. From there, visitors can admire the valley below, and a prominent altar dedicated to the Goddess of Mercy, Quan Am. The view captures the snaking river and surrounding landscape in all its glory.
