Hanoi

Hà Nội

Vietnam's ancient capital on the Red River, blending centuries of history with vibrant street culture, French colonial architecture, and bustling markets. It's the natural entry point to Northwest Vietnam and offers temples, museums, water puppetry, and exceptional street food.

Things to do

• Hoan Kiem Lake Walk — Stroll around this central freshwater lake, visit the Turtle Tower in its center, and explore the red-painted Huc Bridge leading to Jade Island Temple.
• Old Quarter Exploration — Wander the narrow, winding streets of the historic Old Quarter where each street traditionally specialized in a different trade, from Silver Street to Silk Street.
• Temple of Literature — Visit Vietnam's first national university founded in 1070, featuring traditional Vietnamese architecture, ancient stone stelae, and peaceful courtyards.
• Water Puppet Theater — Watch the traditional art form unique to northern Vietnam where puppets appear to move across water, accompanied by live music and narration.
• Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum Complex — Pay respects at the monumental mausoleum, and explore the surrounding presidential palace and gardens in this important historical site.
• National Museum of Vietnam — Discover Vietnam's history from prehistoric times through the French colonial period and Vietnamese independence in this comprehensive museum.
• Dong Xuan Market — Explore Hanoi's oldest and largest covered market, a chaotic hub selling everything from textiles and souvenirs to fresh produce and local goods.

Food to try

• Pho Hanoi — The northern style beef or chicken noodle soup with a delicate broth simmered for hours, served with fresh herbs and rice noodles, is Hanoi's iconic breakfast dish.
• Bun Cha — Grilled pork patties and fatty pork belly served with fresh herbs, pickled vegetables, and a sweet-sour dipping sauce, traditionally paired with vermicelli noodles.
• Egg Coffee — A Hanoi specialty of strong dark coffee topped with a creamy mixture of whipped egg yolk and condensed milk, creating a sweet and rich beverage.
• Cha Ca — Turmeric-marinated fish fried with dill and served with rice noodles and peanut sauce, a dish so iconic to Hanoi it has a dedicated street.
• Banh Mi — A legacy of French colonial influence, these crispy baguette sandwiches filled with pâté, cold cuts, pickles, and cilantro are sold at street stalls throughout the city.

Local customs & good to know

• Respect for Elders and Tradition — Always greet elders first with a slight bow or nod, and avoid pointing or crossing your legs when sitting; these are fundamental signs of respect in Vietnamese culture.
• Haggling at Markets — Negotiating prices is expected and welcomed at street markets and from vendors, but do so with a smile and good humor rather than aggressively.
• Shoe Etiquette — Remove your shoes before entering temples, pagodas, and many homes; this shows respect for sacred and private spaces.
• Motorbike Crossing — Walk slowly and steadily across streets with heavy motorbike traffic rather than waiting; drivers will navigate around you if you maintain a predictable pace.