22 Must do’s in Hanoi | Vietnam - Life of a Passion

Hanoi is the vibrant capital of Vietnam and is a great introduction to the country, as there is so much to do. Hanoi was our starting point of our trip. It’s a pretty chaotic city, with buzzing scooters around you and a street food stall on every street corner. In this article, you can read many more tips for fun things to do in Hanoi!

P.S. You can see more photos on my Instagram!

1) Hanoi Old Quarter

The old center of Hanoi is more than 1000 years old and is a must-visit. Walk through the narrow streets and pass by many coffee shops, markets, street food stalls, cafes, and restaurants. Visit Ta Hien Street in the evening for live music and dancing. Phung Hung Street is a street full of beautiful, colorful murals that show the daily life of Vietnamese people using the Trompe-L’oeil technique. The illusion is created that you are looking at a three-dimensional object, and this makes the murals look super realistic.

Tip: How to cross the road as a pedestrian with buzzing scooters? Walk behind a local and walk at a predictable pace. The scooters will just drive around you.

2) Hoan Kiem Lake

In the middle of the city is Hoan Kiem Lake. Many locals escape the hustle and bustle of the city with a walk or a picnic here.

Tip: Best time to visit the lake? Friday to Sunday as cars and scooters are banned during this period.

3) Ngoc Son Temple

When at Hoan Kiem Lake, visit the Ngoc Son Temple. It’s located in the middle of the Lake and can be reached via a bright red bridge.

4) Emperor Lý Thái Tổ Monument

Located near Hoan Kiem Lake, this grand bronze statue honors Lý Thái Tổ, the emperor who founded Hanoi (then Thang Long) in the 11th century. The surrounding plaza is peaceful and often filled with locals practicing tai chi or enjoying a walk.

5) Nha Sach Mao Bookstore

Tucked away in a quiet alley, Nha Sach Mao is more than just a bookstore—it’s a haven for book lovers and creative souls. With rustic decor, shelves full of Vietnamese and international titles, and an artsy vibe, this spot is perfect for a relaxing escape from the city’s chaos.

6) Trang Tien Plaza

If you’re craving some luxury retail therapy, Trang Tien Plaza is Hanoi’s go-to destination. Located steps from Hoan Kiem Lake, this high-end mall features international brands, air-conditioned comfort, and elegant architecture.

7) Dong Kinh Nghia Thuc Square

This vibrant square, located at the edge of Hoan Kiem Lake, is where you’ll truly feel Hanoi’s energy. Surrounded by cafés, shops, and nonstop motorbike traffic, it’s a great place for people-watching. Come here in the evening to see the area lit up and buzzing with local life.

8) Watch a Traditional Water Puppet Show

A visit to Hanoi isn’t complete without catching a traditional water puppet show at the Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre. This unique Vietnamese art form, performed in water with live music, tells folk tales and historical legends.

9) Traditional Vietnamese Egg Coffee

Vietnam is the second largest coffee producer in the world after Brazil. For something more special, you have to visit Hanoi for their famous Vietnamese Egg Coffee. The Egg Coffee originated in the 1940s when there was a shortage of dairy products, so they used beaten egg yolk as a creamy layer on the coffee instead. Where to get your Egg coffee? Giang Cafe, The Note Coffee, & Hidden Gem Cafe

10) Long Bien Bridge

Stretching across the Red River you’ll find Long Bien Bridge. Built by the French in the early 20th century and designed by the same firm behind the Eiffel Tower, this weathered iron bridge carries a deep sense of history. Once bombed during the Vietnam War, it still stands strong today—used by trains, motorbikes, and the occasional cyclist.

Best time to visit: Early morning or sunset for golden light and a peaceful vibe.

11) Trúc Bạch Lake

Trúc Bạch is best known internationally as the site where U.S. Senator John McCain’s plane was shot down during the Vietnam War. A small memorial marks the spot. But beyond the history, the lake is a peaceful place to enjoy a coffee, go for a stroll, or rent a bicycle and explore the local neighborhood vibe.

Try “pho cuon” (rolled pho) at one of the lakeside eateries—it’s a local favorite born right in this area!

12) Iconic: Hanoi Train Street

One of the most iconic places in Hanoi is Hanoi Train Street. A train runs through the narrow streets of Hanoi several times a day. Everyone has to get out of the way as soon as the train arrives.

Tip: You are not allowed to just walk onto the track and find a place to sit yourself. You have to sit on one of the terraces, order a drink and wait for the train to pass by.

Tip: Ask your hotel or hostel about the current train times, because they change quite often.

13) Night Market Hanoi

Every Friday, Saturday and Sunday evening there is a huge Night Market in Hanoi. It attracts many people, both locals and travelers.Have a bite, buy souvenirs, clothing, jewelry and other accessories.

14) St. Joseph’s Cathedral

Hanoi was once under French occupation. The St. Joseph’s Cathedral is a perfect example of this (Hanoi Old Quarter). It was built by the French during the occupation and was inspired by the Notre Dame in Paris.

Tip: Make sure shoulders and knees are covered when visiting St. Joseph’s Cathedral

15) Hanoi Food Tour

Always fun to join a Streetfood Walking Tour. You will go with a small group and a guide to taste the different flavors of the Vietnamese kitchen. You will learn everything about the different Vietnamese dishes, snacks and drinks. Make sure you start the tour with a good appetite.

16) Traditional Vietnamese food: Banh Mi Sandwich

Try some traditional Vietnamese food, and in Hanoi that should be the Banh Mi sandwich! Banh Mi is a Vietnamese baguette with a savoury filling of meat, egg, and vegetables. These are often topped with cheese, avocado, mushrooms, and/or tofu. Try them at the famous Banh Mi 25.

Tip: Vegetarian option is also available.

17) Hoa Lo Prison Relic

Visit the old Hoa Lo prison if you want to learn more about the Vietnam War. This museum was a prison during the war and was used to lock up and torture political prisoners. You will see that the conditions in this overcrowded prison were terrible.

18) Temple of Literature

The Temple of Literature, Văn Miếu, is located in the middle of Hanoi, yet it feels like you are away from the city. The Temple of Literature is an old university and was built in the year 1070. The temple, dedicated to science and literature, is a place where students come to study in peace. Have a look at its beautiful architecture and walk through the five different courtyards and prayer rooms.

19) Gò Kim Chàu lake

After your visit to the Temple of Literature, continue your walk to the Gò Kim Chàu lake and walk on the different footbridges over the water.

20) Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum

The Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum is where you can view the embalmed body of Vietnam’s beloved leaderHo Chi Minh

21) HLC Starry Art Museum

For something modern and Instagram-worthy, head to the HLC Starry Art Museum. This immersive digital art space features glowing, interactive installations and dreamy visual experiences—perfect for a break from the traditional tourist trail and ideal for creative photos.

22) Rooftop Bar: Sky Lotte Observation Deck

Enjoy a drink and the skyline of Hanoi at the Sky Lotte Observation Deck on the 65th floor.

Tip: Upon arrival, first take the escalator down. You will then end up in a shopping center, follow the signs to the elevator that takes you to the Sky Lotte Observation Deck.

Go to food Hanoi

Luk Lak – For delicious authentic Vietnamese food with a modern twist.

Muoi Tieu – Salt n’ Pepper Kitchen – Start your day off right at Muoi Tieu, because here you can have a delicious breakfast or lunch. Think of avocado toast, salads, croissants and various sandwiches.

Poké Hanoi – Create your own healthy poké bowl. It is located right on the Hoan Kiem lake, so it is also nice to pick up when you want to picnic by the water.

The Hanoi Social Club – In this trendy and atmospheric restaurant you can go for breakfast, lunch and dinner. There is a homely atmosphere and they serve delicious dishes that are rich in vegetables.

Hanoi Food Culture – Atmospheric restaurant with original decor and nice staff. Here you will experience the best of Vietnamese cuisine!

Where to stay in Hanoi?

We stayed at the beginning and at the end of our trip in Hanoi. My advice is to stay at the Hanoi Old Quarter. Here you will find most of the sightseeings but also nice restaurants, bars and hotels. We stayed at Hanoi Buffalo Hostel (old Quarter). This hostel is located in the middle of Hanoi Old Quarter and has a swimming pool. The hostel organizes many activities and you can easily meet other travelers. We opted for a double room with air conditioning.