Things to do in Hanoi

Things to do in {geoName} 

If you're wondering about things to do in Hanoi, start with this: it’s a city best explored slowly. Walk the streets, watch how people live, and you’ll start to notice the details; the smells of street food, the clink of coffee cups, the blend of old and new around every corner. Hanoi is best explored wandering without a plan, finding your own favourite pho spot, or sitting by the lake doing absolutely nothing. 

That said, it helps to have a few ideas up your sleeve. Whether you’re just visiting or you’re a local looking for something new, this list covers the standouts, including the must-sees, the hidden gems, and the experiences that make Hanoi feel special.

Unique {geoName} things you can’t do anywhere else

• Sail through Ha Long Bay: Cruise past limestone cliffs, paddle into hidden caves, then kick back with a sunset cocktail on deck.
• See a water puppet show: Traditional, quirky, and 100% Vietnamese. Puppets dance on water to live music, telling age-old stories with serious charm.
• Make Vietnamese coffee your way: Taste the many different types of local coffee (including coconut and egg), then learn to brew them yourself with help from the pros.
• Ride a cyclo through the Old Quarter: Hop on a traditional three-wheeled cyclo and roll past temples, markets, and landmarks in Hanoi’s 1,000-year-old maze of streets.
• Perfume Pagoda: Float down the Yen stream, climb into a sacred cave, and soak up mountain temple vibes all day long.

Best {geoName} attractions to see

• Van Phuc Silk Village: Meet the locals keeping a 1,000-year-old silk tradition alive and pick up some luxe fabric without the price tag.
• Lotte Observation Deck: Head 65 floors up for skyline views and a see-through skywalk. Not for the faint-hearted, but worth it.
• VinWonders Hanoi Water Park: Cool off with six waterslides, themed play zones, and a chilled vibe perfect for kids and grownups alike.
• Hanoi Wave Park: Asia’s biggest saltwater pool, the world’s largest wave pool, and a solid day of water-fuelled fun.
• Local cooking class: Hit the markets, learn the tricks, and cook classic Vietnamese dishes with a local chef. Finish with lunch and a local wine.

Best {geoName} day trips and tours

• Strike a pose in Ao Dai: Put on Vietnam’s national dress and hit Hanoi’s top photo spots with a pro snapping the best angles.
• Old Quarter culture walk: Dig into Hanoi’s past with a guided walk through craft streets, hidden shrines, and stories you won’t find on Google.
• Hanoi city highlights: Tick off the capital’s must-sees in one go, from Ho Chi Minh’s Mausoleum to the One-Pillar Pagoda and Hoa Lo Prison. Learn the history straight from local experts.
• Craft villages escape: Step away from the buzz of the city and meet local artisans in peaceful villages. Watch incense being made and try weaving a traditional conical hat by hand.
• Food and wellness tour: Taste your way through Hanoi’s best street eats, then wind down with a traditional herbal hair wash and massage. A relaxing finish to a flavour-packed day out.

Budgeting for things to do in {geoName}

Hanoi’s friendly on the wallet. A bowl of pho sets you back about AU$2–4. Entry to most attractions is under AU$5. Water puppet tickets start around AU$7, and cooking classes with market tours go for about AU$40. 

Big day trips, like Ha Long Bay or the Perfume Pagoda, land between AU$60 and AU$150 and often include lunch and transport. Feeling fancy? Private Ao Dai photo shoots or luxury cruises run closer to AU$200.

Free things to do in {geoName}

• Wander the Old Quarter: Get lost (on purpose) in a maze of buzzing streets, colourful shopfronts, and street eats. It’s free, fun, and full of surprises.
• Explore with Hanoi Kids: Join a free walking tour run by local students. You’ll just need to cover your own snacks and entry fees.
• Browse the weekend night market: From Friday to Sunday, the Old Quarter turns into a wild mix of stalls, snacks, and people. Come for the vibes but stay for the bites.
• Visit Train Street: Watch a train squeeze through a narrow alley while locals sip coffee just inches away. Better yet, grab a drink and watch the show.
• Walk around Hoan Kiem Lake: This central lake is made for slow strolls. Come at the weekend when traffic stops and the street performers come out.