when in vietnam logo

Top 3 Hanoi Tours: Experience the Heart of Vietnam

LOOKING FOR HANOI TOURS?

You’ve come to the right place — as we have traveled around Vietnam since 2015!

There is an exotic city teeming with vibrant colors , ancient architecture , and the unmistakable hum of bustling streets . Where is this captivating place, you ask? Welcome to Hanoi, the mesmerizing capital city of Vietnam!

Hanoi is a city where time-honored traditions blend seamlessly with the energy of modern life. The Old Quarter’s narrow streets are a maze of charming colonial buildings , street food stalls , and artisans practicing centuries-old crafts. Take a leisurely stroll and you’ll feel as though you’ve stepped back in time.

Smell the enticing aroma of pho (Vietnamese noodle soup) wafting through the air from local street vendors. The tantalizing smell is enough to stop you in your tracks, urging you to join the locals for a hearty pho. Yes, that’s the kind of everyday magic that Hanoi offers.

But there’s more! Hanoi is not just about the past. The city is a thriving metropolis with bustling shopping centers, contemporary art, and a lively music scene .

So, are you ready to explore Hanoi’s unique charm? Let’s dive into what makes a tour of this magnificent city an experience of a lifetime! 

Why Choose Hanoi Tours?

Great question! There’s a world of wonder awaiting you in Hanoi. From its rich history and culture to tantalizing cuisine and buzzing local scene, this city has it all. Let’s dive in!

Unravel the Rich History and Culture

Hanoi is brimming with historical landmarks and cultural sites.

Hoan Kiem Lake and Ngoc Son Temple: In the heart of Hanoi lies Hoan Kiem Lake, home to the Ngoc Son Temple. This iconic spot tells tales of legendary heroes and mythical turtles. 

Don’t miss a stroll around the lake, especially at dawn or dusk. It’s only a 15-minute walk from the Old Quarter and adult entry to the temple costs around USD 2.

The Imperial Citadel of Thang Long : An UNESCO World Heritage Site, this historic complex showcases Vietnam’s history over the past 13 centuries. 

Imperial Citadel of Thang Long, Hanoi Tours

It’s located just a 10-minute drive from the Old Quarter and the adult entry fee is around 30,000 VND.

Local Festivals : The city’s calendar is peppered with numerous festivals such as the Lunar New Year (Tet) and the Mid-Autumn Festival. 

Visiting during these times will allow you to witness and partake in vibrant local customs.

Taste the Culinary Delights

Hanoi’s food scene is a delightful blend of flavors and fragrances. Here’s where and what to eat:

Pho : Start your day with a steaming bowl of Pho at local restaurants.

Bun Cha : For lunch, try bun cha A set meal may include bun cha, seafood spring rolls and a bottle of beer.

Encounter the Vibrant Local Scene

There’s plenty of local buzz to keep you entertained in Hanoi.

Markets and Artisan Crafts : The city’s markets are a great place to witness Hanoi’s bustling local life. 

Visit the Dong Xuan Market, Hanoi’s largest indoor market, located in the heart of the Old Quarter. Here, you’ll find everything from fresh produce to local handicrafts.

Vibrant Nightlife : As the sun sets, Hanoi transforms into a lively hub with plenty of night markets, rooftop bars, and live music venues. 

Check out the Weekend Night Market, which runs from Hang Dao Street to Dong Xuan Market, or hit up Ta Hien Street, known as “Beer Street,” for a night of fun.

Ready to dive into the heart of Vietnam? Let’s explore the top-rated tours Hanoi has to offer!

Top Rated Hanoi Tours to Consider

Ready to discover the best of Hanoi? Here are the top-rated tours you shouldn’t miss!

1. Old Quarter Food Tour

tour vietnam hanoi

⭐ Rating: 4.8 out of 5 |⌛ Duration: 3hr |💵 Cost: Check rates and availability

Eric is the tour guide. We met at the tour office at 4pm. We went for 3 main course and 2 dessert. Eric would check with us our dietary requirements before proceeding to bring us to try suitable food of the day for the whole group. This group at 4pm has 4 tourists only. Eric is superb to give us background history of the food. The few stops are nearby within walking distance. The trip ends in a cafe near beer street in the evening. Beautiful indeed. Highly recommended. K. U. (Read more reviews)

Discover the heart of Hanoi on foot! An Old Quarter food tour lets you explore the city’s rich history, architecture, and local life.

What to Expect: Your taste buds will delight in a variety of local delicacies, from spicy noodle soups and crispy fried meats to sweet, comforting desserts. 

Immerse yourself in the local market scene, sample delectable street food, and try Hanoi’s special egg coffee to cap off your enriching tour.

Why It’s a Must-Do: This Old Quarter food tour offers an intimate glimpse into the local culture and lifestyle. It’s perfect for history buffs, culture vultures, and food enthusiasts.

2. [Route 2] Luxury Cruise Tour on Halong Bay from Hanoi

tour vietnam hanoi

⭐ Rating: 4.8 out of 5 |⌛ Duration: 1 day |💵 Cost: Check rates and availability

Dat was our tour guide (hopefully I spelled his name correctly 😅) He made our day tour informative and all throughout the day, we were entertained with his humour as well. We couldn’t ask for more. We enjoyed the stops and the food served were amazingly good. Highly recommended. Allyzza (Read more reviews)

The allure of Halong Bay’s stunning karst landscapes is irresistible!

Tour Details : You can explore fascinating caves, enjoy kayaking or swimming, and take in the spectacular scenery. 

Day trips usually start from around USD 50 by bus, while by limousine begin at around USD 55. Kayaking or a bamboo boat will cost you an extra amount of USD 5.

Who Should Take This Tour : This [Route 2] Luxury Cruise Tour on Halong Bay from Hanoi by Klook is ideal for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and photographers. It’s also a great choice for a romantic getaway.

You also also try the [Route 1] Halong Bay Day Cruise Tour from Ha Noi (via Highway) .

3. Hanoi Street Food Walking Tour with Cyclo Ride

tour vietnam hanoi

⭐ Rating: 4.8 out of 5 |⌛ Duration: 3hr 30min |💵 Cost: Check rates and availability

Bucky our tour guide was very energetic, knowledgable and had many stories to share from food and culture to history and urban legends. He was also happy to personalize the trip so we could try amazing Vietnamese dishes at places I never would have found out about on my own. A must do in Hanoi! Jiun (Read more reviews)

Get your taste buds ready for a culinary adventure!

Overview: Uncover Hanoi’s gastronomic treasures and rich history in a captivating on-foot exploration of the city. 

Traverse the Old Quarter, sampling authentic fare from family-run stalls and time-honored restaurants, while journeying through a maze of bustling streets. 

Enhance your cultural immersion with a delightful ride on a cyclo, the iconic three-wheel bike taxi from the French colonial era, and deepen your understanding of Vietnamese history with insights from your knowledgeable guide.

Why Food Lovers Shouldn’t Miss This : This Hanoi Street Food Walking Tour with Cyclo Ride offers a deep dive into Vietnam’s culinary scene. It’s an absolute must-do for foodies keen to try authentic Vietnamese street food.

Other Top Rated Hanoi Tours to Consider

4. hanoi street food walking tour with water puppet show.

If you prefer a food tour and catch a traditional water puppet show, then you can try hanoi street food walking tour with water puppet show .

tour vietnam hanoi

⭐ Rating: 4.7 out of 5 |⌛ Duration: 4hr |💵 Cost: Check rates and availability

We had the lovely Sarah she took us to places we would never have gone. explained all the food and culture. have to say the food was delicious and lived Sarah company. Then water puppet show be sure to get the audio translation. A great afternoon… K. U. (Read more reviews)

5. Rose Kitchen Cooking Class

Want to recreate the flavors of pho, banh mi, and bun cha at home? Try Rose Kitchen Cooking Class .

tour vietnam hanoi

⭐ Rating: 4.8 out of 5 |⌛ Duration: 4hr 30min |💵 Cost: Check rates and availability

It was a satisfying experience, as you can see in the reviews of many people. Thanks to Ruby, a well-prepared program, clean facilities, friendly staff, and an instructor who passionately led the 4-hour program, I got memories that will last for a long time after this 4-night trip to Hanoi. If you can communicate in simple English, you will be able to have a good time with participants of various nationalities… 🙂 Yohan (Read more reviews)

6. Hanoi City Tour with Vietnam Bat Trang Ceramics Village

tour vietnam hanoi

This Hanoi city tour brings us to many attractions around Hanoi city with good explanation from the tour guide. The only downside could be the traffic in Hanoi which can be quite bad at certain timings causing the trip to be long even for a short distance. Overall, I think this is a worthwhile experience if you visit Hanoi. Zhao X. (Read more reviews)

7. Hanoi City Tour with Vietnam Ethnology Museum

tour vietnam hanoi

⭐ Rating: 4.5 out of 5 |⌛ Duration: 7hr 30min – 8hr 15min |💵 Cost: Check rates and availability

This is a great tour to see the famous sights in Hanoi!…The bus arrived to pick us up at our hotel in Old Quarters 15 minutes earlier than the confirmed time, but that’s ok. We enjoyed all the sights! The tour guide is passionate about sharing his culture and is good in time management. He was able to give us information about the different places and guide us, but he also gave us time to explore areas on our own. This includes an air conditioned bus. They provide 1 bottle of water. Wear comfortable shoes (i wore slip-on sandals and they were ok) as you will be walking around 10k steps for this. Clang (Read more reviews)

Remember, no matter what tour you choose, Hanoi is sure to leave an indelible impression on your heart. Now, let’s talk about how to make the most out of your Hanoi tour!

Tips for Making the Most Out of Your Hanoi Tour

Get ready for your Hanoi adventure! Let’s make sure you’re well-prepared. Here are some tips to help you make the most out of your Hanoi tour.

Best Time to Visit Hanoi

When to have Hanoi tours, you ask? The city has a unique climate with four distinct seasons, but here’s the lowdown on the best times to visit.

🌷 Spring (February to April): This is when Hanoi is at its prettiest. It’s mild with lots of beautiful flowers blooming. Plus, it’s the season of the Vietnamese New Year (Tet Festival), an event not to be missed!

☕ Autumn (September to December): Also a great time to visit, with milder temperatures and less rainfall. It’s the perfect weather for wandering around the Old Quarter and enjoying a cup of hot egg coffee!

Remember, there’s something interesting happening in Hanoi all year round, so there’s never a bad time to visit!

Essential Travel Tips

Let’s talk about some basics to make your Hanoi tours a breeze.

Etiquette and Safety : Always be respectful of local customs and religious sites. Dress modestly when visiting temples. Hanoi is generally safe , but as with any major city, keep an eye on your belongings.

Currency : The local currency is Vietnamese Dong (VND). Credit cards are accepted in most places, but having cash on hand is handy for small vendors and street food stalls.

Language : The national language is Vietnamese. English is understood by many, especially in tourist areas, but learning a few basic Vietnamese phrases could enhance your interaction with locals.

Getting Around : Hanoi’s Old Quarter is best explored on foot or by cyclo. For longer distances, Grab (similar to Uber) is a convenient option.

Keep these tips in mind, and you’re sure to have an unforgettable journey in Hanoi. Ready to pack your bags and start your Hanoi adventure?

Planning Your Hanoi Tour

Ready to put your Hanoi tours into motion? Let’s get into the nitty-gritty of booking your tour, understanding the costs, and tailoring your experience to fit your desires.

Booking Your Tour

So, how do you go about booking your Hanoi tour? Here are some key points to consider:

Online Platforms : Websites like Klook offer a variety of tours you can book in advance. They provide detailed itineraries, customer reviews, and easy booking options.

Local Tour Operators : Alternatively, once you’re in Hanoi, you can book through local travel agencies. This could be a great way to support local businesses.

Directly with Hotels : Many hotels in Hanoi offer tour booking services for their guests. Check with your hotel concierge for available options.

Understanding the Costs

Let’s talk money:

Variety of Prices : Depending on the tour, prices can range from USD 20 for a basic walking tour to over USD 130 for an overnight Halong Bay cruise. Always check what’s included in your tour price (meals, entrance fees, etc.)

Additional Costs : Remember to budget for extra costs like tips, meals not included in your tour, other activities like kayaking, and souvenirs.

Tailoring Your Experience

Your Hanoi tour, your way:

Customization : Some tour operators offer customizable itineraries. This means you can pick and choose the attractions you’re most interested in.

Private Tours : For a more personalized experience, consider booking a private tour. This will allow for a more flexible schedule and the opportunity to ask your guide all the questions you have!

The bottom line? Planning your Hanoi tour is all about choosing what works best for you. So, start exploring your options and get ready to immerse yourself in the captivating charm of Hanoi!

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best tours in hanoi.

The best tours in Hanoi include the Old Quarter Walking Tour , Halong Bay Cruise , and the Hanoi Street Food Tour , each offering a unique taste of the city’s vibrant culture, breathtaking landscapes, and tantalizing cuisine.

What are the best day trips and excursions from Hanoi?

The best day trips from Hanoi typically involve excursions to UNESCO World Heritage site Halong Bay , the ancient town of Hoa Lu and Trang An Grottoes, or the scenic mountain town of Sapa .

What tours in Hanoi are good for avoiding crowds?

For avoiding crowds, consider booking private tours or explore less-touristy areas like the charming district of Tay Ho or the historic Long Bien Bridge. You can also book private transfers like Private Car Service to Trang An (Ninh Binh), Sapa, Ha Long Bay, Hai Phong from Hanoi & Vice Versa .

How many days are enough for Hanoi?

Ideally, three days are enough to explore Hanoi’s main attractions, soak in its history, and sample the local cuisine.

Is 5 days enough for Hanoi?

Five days in Hanoi provide a more leisurely pace, allowing for deeper exploration, day trips to nearby attractions like Halong Bay, and even some downtime to relax and enjoy the city’s cafes and parks.

Is Hanoi worth going?

Absolutely, Hanoi is worth visiting! It’s a city with rich history, vibrant culture, delectable food, and a lively art scene. It provides a great blend of traditional and modern Vietnam.

What is Hanoi Vietnam famous for?

Hanoi is famous for its historic Old Quarter, the stunning Hoan Kiem Lake, a vibrant street food scene, beautiful French colonial architecture, and a multitude of cultural institutions like the Temple of Literature and Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum.

Hanoi, the vibrant capital of Vietnam, offers an array of unforgettable experiences for travelers. Its rich history, diverse culture, and mouthwatering street food make it a must-visit destination.

Whether you’re exploring the bustling Old Quarter, cruising on the serene waters of Halong Bay, or immersing yourself in the city’s culinary scene through a food tour, Hanoi promises a unique blend of adventure and relaxation. The city’s charm lies not just in its scenic beauty, but also in the warmth and hospitality of its people.

So, pack your bags and get ready to have Hanoi tours adventures.

Similar Posts

How Many Days in Hanoi: A Comprehensive Guide to Make the Most Out of Your Visit

How Many Days in Hanoi: A Comprehensive Guide to Make the Most Out of Your Visit

Disclaimer: This page may contain affiliate links. More info in our Privacy Policy THINKING ABOUT HOW MANY DAYS IN HANOI? You’ve come to the right place — as we have traveled around Vietnam since 2015! Just had an exhilarating journey through the bustling, vibrant streets of Hanoi. Each corner, each street revealed a city teeming…

Traveling from Hanoi to Chiang Mai: Your Ultimate Travel Guide

Traveling from Hanoi to Chiang Mai: Your Ultimate Travel Guide

Disclaimer: This page may contain affiliate links. More info in our Privacy Policy PLANNING A TRIP FROM HANOI TO CHIANG MAI? You’ve come to the right place — as we have traveled around Vietnam and Thailand since 2015! Hello, globetrotter! Ready for your next epic journey from the bustling streets of Hanoi to the serene…

Getting from Hanoi to Hoi An: 5 Best Ways to Travel

Getting from Hanoi to Hoi An: 5 Best Ways to Travel

Disclaimer: This page may contain affiliate links. More info in our Privacy Policy PLANNING A TRIP FROM HANOI TO HOI AN? You’ve come to the right place — as we have traveled around Vietnam since 2015!  So you’re about to embark on a 798 km journey from the bustling city streets of Hanoi to the…

Getting from Chiang Mai to Hanoi: Your Complete Guide 2024

Getting from Chiang Mai to Hanoi: Your Complete Guide 2024

Disclaimer: This page may contain affiliate links. More info in our Privacy Policy PLANNING A TRIP FROM CHIANG MAI TO HANOI? You’ve come to the right place — as we have traveled around Vietnam and Thailand since 2015! Are you ready to set sail on a thrilling journey across Southeast Asia? Picture yourself leaving the…

Getting from Hanoi to Siem Reap: 3 Ways to Travel by Air, Bus, Train

Getting from Hanoi to Siem Reap: 3 Ways to Travel by Air, Bus, Train

Disclaimer: This page may contain affiliate links. More info in our Privacy Policy PLANNING A TRIP FROM HANOI TO SIEM REAP? You’ve come to the right place — as we have traveled around Vietnam and Cambodia since 2015! Hanoi, the bustling heart of Vietnam, is known for its centuries-old architecture and rich culture with Southeast…

Top 9 Most Exciting Hanoi Motorbike Tours for an Unforgettable Adventure

Top 9 Most Exciting Hanoi Motorbike Tours for an Unforgettable Adventure

Disclaimer: This page may contain affiliate links. More info in our Privacy Policy DREAMING OF HANOI MOTORBIKE TOURS? You’ve come to the right place — as we have traveled around Vietnam since 2015! Let me introduce you to Hanoi, the vibrant capital of Vietnam. This city teems with a dynamic blend of the old and…

One Comment

  • Pingback: 2 weeks in Vietnam: Itinerary covering highlights at a relaxed pace

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

IMAGES

  1. Hanoi city tour

    tour vietnam hanoi

  2. Hanói 2021: los 10 mejores tours y actividades (con fotos)

    tour vietnam hanoi

  3. Halong Bay 1 Day Tour

    tour vietnam hanoi

  4. Hanoi Halfday City Tour

    tour vietnam hanoi

  5. Hanoi, Vietnam. Qué ver, hacer y visitar

    tour vietnam hanoi

  6. Hanoi City Tour: Private Full-Day Trip by Excursion Vietnam

    tour vietnam hanoi

VIDEO

  1. Vietnam (From Saigon to Hanoi) part #1

  2. HANOI Vietnam Apartment Tour & Price 🇻🇳

  3. Hanoi, Vietnam

  4. Exploring Hanoi, Vietnam

  5. #hanoi #internationalairport #vietnam #vietnamtourism #vietnamculture #travel #travelshorts

  6. Vietnam Francais Tournée visite tour voyage Vimed Travel

COMMENTS

  1. Top 3 Hanoi Tours: Experience the Heart of Vietnam

    These experiences are best for tours in Hanoi: Ninh Binh Full-Day Tour from Hanoi to Hoa Lu, Tam Coc & Mua Cave Via Boat & Bike; Ha Long Bay Cruise Day Tour - best selling: …