Hanoi
The popular destination of Hanoi should not be missed on any Vietnam round trip. As the capital, Hanoi has a lot to offer - lots of green spaces, local night markets, artists and many charming streets and corners to discover and explore.
Destination Hanoi
The beautiful city Hanoi Capital and seat of government. On the banks of the Red River, Hanoi offers a mild climate compared to the sunny south.
Hanoi is a vibrant city - a cauldron of exotic ancient monuments, modern skyscrapers and numerous remnants of colonial imperialism, offering visitors a wealth of historical sights and tourist attractions.
At its heart lies the chaotic Old Quarter, where the narrow streets are filled with traders. There are many small temples, such as Bach Ma, in honor of a legendary horse, as well as the Đồng Xuân market, where household goods and takeaway food are sold.
Location & Region
The capital of Vietnam in the north of the country, situated on the banks of the Red River. The historical and cultural heart with over 1,000 years of history.
Arrival & Starting Point
Hub with Noi Bai International Airport (HAN). The perfect starting point for onward journeys to Halong, Sapa or Ninh Binh.
Top Highlights
The bustling Old Quarter (The 36 Streets), the legendary Hoan Kiem Lake, the historic Temple of Literature, and world-famous Vietnamese street food.
Ideal for whom?
A must for first-time visitors, culture lovers, foodies and photographers. Recommended duration: 2 to 3 days to arrive and explore.
Hanoi's Top Attractions in Detail (Visitor Information & Facts)
Hanoi is a city full of history, culture, and charm. Here are the most important historical highlights for your travel planning, prepared with the latest visitor information:
- Temple of Literature & National University:
It was founded in 1070 as a Confucian temple and the first university in Vietnam. The traditional architecture includes five courtyards separated by walls and historical stone steles engraved with the names of graduates from that era. The temple is a symbol of education and a popular spot for photo shoots.- Address: Quốc Tử Giám Street, Đống Đa District
- Opening hours: Daily 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM
- Admission price approx. 70,000 VND (as of August 2026)
- Hỏa Lò Prison („Hanoi Hilton“):
The prison was built by the French in 1896 and originally served as a detention centre for political prisoners. During the Vietnam War, American prisoners of war were held here. Today, the museum impressively documents the history and the living conditions of the prisoners at the time.- Address: 1 Hoa Lo Street, Hoan Kiem District
- Opening hours: Daily 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM
- Admission price approx. 50,000 VND (as of August 2026)
- The Old Quarter & Hoan Kiem Lake
The Old Quarter is a vibrant district steeped in history, its narrow streets lined with shops, traditional restaurants, and French colonial architecture. The adjoining Hoan Kiem Lake forms the heart of Hanoi and is a popular meeting place.- Address: Hoan Kiem District
- Opening hours: The Old Town is accessible at all times, the Ngoc Son Temple on the lake from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
- Admission price Old Town & Lake free. Ngoc Son Temple approx. 30,000 VND (as of August 2026).
- Ethnological Museum of Vietnam:
This fascinating museum offers a deep insight into the diversity of Vietnam's 54 ethnic groups. It showcases ways of life, clothing, musical instruments, and ritual objects. In the beautiful outdoor garden, original structures such as a water wheel or bamboo bridges can be admired.- Address: Nguyễn Văn Huyên Street
- Opening hours: Tuesday to Sunday from 8:30 AM to 5:30 PM
- Admission price £40,000 (as of August 2026)
- Dong Xuan Market
It is the largest indoor market in Hanoi. Here, locals and tourists buy everything from clothes to souvenirs. Furthermore, it is an excellent place to try traditional Vietnamese dishes at the many food stalls.- Address: 68 P. Hàng Giấy, Hoàn Kiếm
- Opening hours: Daily 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM
- Admission price Free (as of August 2026)
- Hanoi Opera House
An architectural gem from the French colonial era, inspired by the Paris Opera House. It was renovated in 1997 and is Hanoi's premier venue for opera, ballet and concerts.- Address: 01 Trang Tien Street, Hoan Kiem District
- Opening Hours & Admission: Vary depending on the event
Why experience Hanoi with Unseen Vietnam Tours:
- 100 % Private & Tailor-made: Your city tours are adapted to your own pace. Whether you focus on history, architecture or photography – you decide what you want to see.
- Authentic & Off the Beaten Path: We won't just show you the main attractions, but will guide you through hidden alleys to secret cafés and markets that no tour bus can reach (no-shopping guarantee).
- Authentic Vietnamese Cuisine Discover Hanoi's flavours safely and authentically. On our private street food tours, you'll taste the best local dishes at selected, hygienically impeccable food stalls.
- A hassle-free, premium service: Begin your journey relaxed with our Private VIP airport transfer. And also the seamless onward journey into the Halong Bay or to Sapa we organise completely from a single source.
- Clever timing We avoid the infamous rush hour and visit places like the Temple of Literature or the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum precisely when the large tour groups are still at breakfast.
Hanoi's legendary street food scene (must-eats & current prices)
The streets of Hanoi are a vast, fragrant, open-air restaurant. Vietnamese cuisine here in the north is famed for its delicate balance of fresh herbs, hearty broths and unique flavours. Here are some local specialities you absolutely must not miss:
- Phở Bò (Traditional Beef Noodle Soup):
The undisputed queen of Vietnamese cuisine has its roots directly in Hanoi. A slow-cooked, aromatic bone broth with rice noodles, tender beef and fresh herbs. Hanoians traditionally eat it for breakfast.- Where best: Throughout the old town, small food stalls that serve only this one dish are particularly popular.
- Price: approx. 50,000 – 80,000 VND (as of August 2026)
- Bún Chả (Grilled pork with rice noodles):
An absolute must-try in Hanoi! You get a bowl of warm, sweet and sour fish sauce broth, with smoky grilled pork and meatballs. Served with a mountain of fresh herbs and cold rice noodles. This dish became world-famous at the latest after Barack Obama and Anthony Bourdain ate it together in Hanoi.- Where best: In the alleys of the Old Quarter at midday (watch out for the rising barbecue smoke).
- Price: Approx. 60,000 – 90,000 VND (As of August 2026)
- Vietnamese Baguette:
The legacy of the French colonial era, perfected by the Vietnamese. A crusty, airy baguette filled with homemade pâté, assorted meats, fresh coriander, cucumber, and pickled vegetables.- Where best: At small street carts (Bánh Mì Carts) on almost every street corner.
- Price: Approx. 25,000 – 40,000 VND (as of August 2026)
- Cà Phê Trứng (Hanoi Egg Coffee):
This „egg coffee“ was invented in Hanoi in the 1940s when milk was scarce. Strong Vietnamese Robusta coffee is served with an incredibly creamy, sweet frothy topping made from whisked egg yolks and condensed milk. It tastes like a liquid tiramisu!- Where best: Hidden traditional cafés such as „Cafe Giang“ in the Old Quarter.
- Price: approx. 40,000 – 60,000 VND (as of August 2026)
- Bánh Cuốn (Steamed Rice Flour Rolls):
A delicate, light dish. Paper-thin rice flour dough is steamed and filled with minced pork and morels. Served with crispy fried onions and a light dip.- Where best: In the mornings at local markets (e.g. around Đồng Xuân Market).
- Price: approx. 40,000 – 50,000 VND (As of: August 2026)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Hanoi
How many days should one plan for Hanoi?
For first-time visitors, we recommend at least 2 full days (3 nights). This gives you enough time to get used to the climate and traffic, explore the Old Town, and visit the main cultural highlights such as the Temple of Literature without stress.
When is the best time to visit Hanoi?
The most pleasant months are autumn (September to November) and spring (March to April). During this time it is mostly sunny, dry and mild. Summer (May to August) is very hot and humid, whilst winter (December to February) can become surprisingly cool (often below 15 degrees)./p>
Is the traffic in Hanoi dangerous?
The traffic with thousands of scooters looks chaotic at first glance, but follows its own, flowing rhythm. The trick when crossing the street: walk slowly, steadily and predictably – the scooter riders will automatically navigate around you. Our guides will happily practise this with you on the first day!
What is the difference between Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon)?
Hanoi (in the north) is the traditional, cultural and political capital. Here you will find four seasons, ancient architecture and a romantic, quieter lakeside atmosphere. Ho Chi Minh City (in the south) is the economic hub – tropical, ultra-modern, noisy, fast-paced and characterised by impressive skyscrapers.
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Weather in Hanoi
Hanoi and the whole of northern Vietnam are characterised by a subtropical climate with four distinct seasons:
- The winter (November to April): During this time, it is noticeably cooling down, so a warmer layer of clothing should not be missing from your luggage.
- Summer (July and August): The height of summer months are really hot and humid, with temperatures often reaching around 35 degrees.
The right time to visit
- The ideal time to travel We recommend the months of November to April for Hanoi and seamless onward travel to the Halong Bay.
- The dry season In the winter months, you will benefit from the best and most stable weather conditions in this region.
- Little precipitation December, January and February are considered the driest months for undisturbed city exploration tours.
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