Hanoi, situated on the right bank of the Red River Delta, is a popular tourist destination in Vietnam. It offers a wider variety of cultural attractions than other towns in the country.

Many free tourist attractions exist in Hanoi for those seeking a budget-friendly vacation in Vietnam. Moreover, many of the city's other attractions are free, making Hanoi an ideal destination for budget-conscious travelers. Below is a list of recommended things to do in Hanoi to enjoy.

1. Hanoi Night Market

Hanoi offers several free attractions in Hanoi that you should not miss, including the Hanoi Night Market. This market is open every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday at 8 p.m. and provides a unique experience for a budget-friendly holiday.

In addition to browsing for gifts, visitors can enjoy opera performances and sample delicious Vietnamese cuisine, including the famous pho.

2. Hanoi Train Street

The Hanoi Train Street tour is famous among international travelers due to its unique photo opportunities. It features a short road between houses with a railway running through it. Some buildings have been converted along the tracks into cafes and restaurants where visitors can relax, enjoy the scenery, and savor delicious food.

Keep in mind that the buildings next to the railway are less than one meter away, so you'll hear the roar of passing trains. However, safety should always come first when taking this tour in Hanoi!

3. St. Joseph's Cathedral

St. Joseph's Cathedral in Hanoi is a 19th-century Neo-Gothic-style cathedral often compared to Notre Dame in Paris. It is one of the top free attractions in Hanoi, Vietnam. However, please note that it is only open for Mass and special religious events such as Christmas and Easter.

You can appreciate the cathedral's exquisite construction by walking through its grounds during your visit—the cathedral's exterior features two Neo-Gothic-style towers, each with a thick granite wall.

4. Hoàn Kiếm Lake

Hoan Kiem Lake is a popular spot for locals to relax and exercise. The Tuc Red Bridge, also known as the Rising Sun Bridge, is a top tourist attraction in Hanoi.

Jade Island, a small island in the middle of the lake connected to the mainland, offers a picturesque backdrop for taking a walk around the lake and snapping some photos with the red bridge, all without spending any money.

5. One Pillar Pagoda

The One Pillar Pagoda, also known as Dien Huu Pagoda and Lien Hoa Dai, is a popular tourist spot in Hanoi that you will want to take advantage of. There's no admission fee to enter. The pagoda gets its name from its unique feature: it stands entirely on a single stone pillar that resembles a lotus flower.

Take a walk around the area to admire its remarkable architecture, and remember to take pictures at the bodhi tree or by the pagoda.

6. Hanoi Ceramic Mosaic Mural

If you enjoy taking selfies, consider visiting the Hanoi Ceramic Mosaic Mural in Vietnam. This street, called Con đường Gốm sứ, spans 3.8 kilometers and is adorned with ceramic murals created by local and foreign artists.

This is the world's largest ceramic mosaic mural, according to Guinness World Records. The mural features diverse subjects, including historical scenes from Vietnam, images of children, and modern art.

7. Old Quarter

The Old Quarter in Hanoi, Vietnam, is a must-see tourist destination that is free to visit. It offers visitors a great opportunity to learn about the local culture and history. If you're interested in exploring the area, we recommend choosing a neighborhood with 36 streets.

Many exciting activities to enjoy in the Hanoi Old Quarter, such as admiring colonial architecture on various streets, trying egg coffee at cafes, shopping for trinkets, searching for Vietnamese cuisine specialties, and browsing vintage-style stores.

If you're planning a budget-friendly or backpacker-style holiday, check out our top picks for free attractions in Hanoi, Vietnam. You can still visit many of Hanoi's popular tourist sites while staying within your budget.
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