Hanoi – the hustle and bustle capital of Vietnam, with more than 1000 years of development.This capital city is a sweet chaos with motorbike honk, the smell of street food vendors. Art, music, memories of the past glorious dynasties and memories of wars are everywhere. And since Hanoi ranked 5th amongst the safest cities in Southeast Asia (2022), it’s easy to explore this city in just a day.
Here is our recommendation of best destinations to fulfill your memories by the most memorable experiences:
1. The taste of Hanoi
As one of the Top 15 culinary destinations in the world (TripAdvisor), Hanoi culinary is a must try for any foodie, and you can easily enjoy your own Hanoi food tour with excellent dishes from the worldwide famous like Pho, Banh Mi to the most traditional ones like Banh Xeo (Vietnamese crispy pancake), Nem Lui (Lemongrass Pork Skewer), Bun Bo Hue (Spicy Beef Noodle Soup), Bun Rieu (Crab and Tomato Noodle Soup), Bun Oc (Snail Noodle Soup), Che (sweet soup),…
These dishes are available throughout the city, especially in the Old Quarter, a hub of authentic flavors.
However, enjoying a Hanoi food tour requires some preparation. With countless choices and vendors, quality can vary significantly. Overcharging, particularly for tourists, is a common issue. As a foreigner, the chances of paying triple the price for low-quality, non-authentic dishes are high.
To avoid it, you should plan your trip carefully, read different reviews and make a check-list, or consider booking a Hanoi food tour if you want a hassle-free experience.
Fulfill your stomach with our beloved, funny, carrying local english speaking four guide:
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2. Hanoi city tour: Hanoi heritage
1000 years of development, It’s not difficult to find a building, or a place in Hanoi that is more than 200 years old. If you’re a culture enthusiast, or just simply want to enjoy the rustic vibe in the middle of the chaos, then here is our recommendation list for your city tour:
– Thang Long Imperial Citadel: Considered Vietnam’s largest and most majestic citadel, this historic site houses relics from past dynasties. During the Vietnam War, it served as the headquarters for the People’s Army, now a museum showcasing tools used by Vietnamese comrades. This is a must-see for a complete Hanoi city tour
– Thang Long Water Puppet Show: A pure traditional art form of Vietnam. This art combines puppetry, music and storytelling, all performed on water. Stories often depict rural life, legends and folklore, accompanied by live traditional music and singing.
– Temple of Literature: The first university of Vietnam.
– Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum: Mausoleum of the great president Ho Chi Minh, whose body is preserved in a glass sarcophagus
– Saint Joseph Cathedral: Follows the Roman Catholic Cathedral with neo-gothic style. This heritage was built from 120 years ago by the French
– Dong Xuan Market: Established in 1989. This is housed in a four-storey Soviet-style building on the northern edge of Hanoi Old Quarter, considered as Hanoi’s largest indoor market, offering a wide range of goods for instance: fresh vegetables, souvenirs, accessories, clothing, or even food. This market holds the exact breath of Hanoian life.
Besides those popular heritages, there are still many more rustic, cultural and traditional spots waiting for you to explore: Vietnam Museum of Ethnology, One Pillar Pagoda, Hanoi Opera House,…
However, as each heritage holds its own story that can’t be found on google, and it’ll be a miss if you won’t have a chance to know. You should consider hiring a tour guide to discover more about its histories and interesting side if you’re planning for the most complete Hanoi city tour.
Book your Hanoi City Tour here
3. A City escape: Ninh Binh Day Tour
If Hanoi is too noisy and busy for you, then an escape from it is also a great choice. But where to go and how to get to a tranquil place where all the dust, noise turn into the sound of nature?
Located about 80km away from Hanoi, which is only 2 hours of drive, Ninh Binh is one of the best destinations for all travelers for its less touristy vibe, and its scenery will bring you to a real life fairy tale experience.
Some of the best spot you definitely don’t want to miss:
Trang An Complex: 3 hours on boat, chilling with nature and the sound of water slowly moving around. The trees, the historical building and the rustic caves. That’s what you will experience when visit Trang An
Tam Coc: Most beautiful during May and June, with golden rice paddies lying beside rustic limestone. Another worth trying experience on boat besides Trang An
Bai Dinh Pagoda: The largest pagoda of Southeast Asia
Mua Cave & Ngoa Long mountain: A vast field of lotus flowers during summer and a panoramic view on the top of Ngoa Long mountain (500 stairs) will take you to the heaven on earth
Besides those destinations, Ninh Binh still has a lot more waiting for you to explore like Hoa Lu Citadel, Thung Nham Bird Park, Van Long Nature Reserve, Cuc Phuong National Park,…
Interested in Ninh Binh? Find out more here
4. Halong Bay Cruise Trip: A Luxury Journey in one of the the world’s new 7 natural wonders
Seeking for something luxury but with an affordable price? Treat yourself with a day-tour cruise trip in Halong Bay – the signature destination of Vietnam. You’ll have a chance to admire the beauty of one of the world’s new 7 natural wonders, enjoy the best of your life in your private room. Sounds wonderful right?
Cruise trip is now a must-do in any tourist’s pocket list once they want to visit Halong bay. Whether you’re looking for a romantic escape, a family adventure, or simply some time to relax, a Halong Bay cruise offers something for everyone. Glide through the emerald waters surrounded by towering limestone karsts, explore hidden caves, and savor freshly prepared seafood on board.
For those who crave more adventure, activities like kayaking, visiting floating villages, or hiking to panoramic viewpoints are also part of the experience. Don’t forget your camera – every corner of Halong Bay is a picture-perfect moment waiting to happen.
Choose from a variety of cruise options, from day trips to overnight stays, each promising a blend of luxury, comfort, and authentic local experiences. Make your Halong Bay trip unforgettable.
Halong bay cruise trip is waiting for you here
Conclusion
In general, you can visit and enjoy multiple activities in Ha Noi or from Hanoi within just a day, so find your inspired destination! Welcome to Vietnam!