Hanoi Highlights and Hidden Gems Walking Tour

Hanoi , Vietnam

Hanoi Highlights and Hidden Gems Walking Tour

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About this experience

Join our small-group walking tour for a unique opportunity to explore the hidden gems and rich history of Hanoi. This isn’t just a typical tourist experience—it's a deep dive into the heart of the city. As we wander through the Old Quarter, you’ll visit traditional temples, charming alleyways, and discover special places that hold significant meaning for the locals. Along the way, our knowledgeable guide will share fascinating stories, revealing Hanoi’s past and its vibrant present.

This walking tour provides the perfect mix of culture, history, and local lifestyle. You’ll not only see the beauty of Hanoi’s architecture and streets, but you’ll also immerse yourself in the daily life of the locals, experiencing the authentic energy of the city. It’s an unforgettable journey that allows you to truly connect with the soul of Hanoi. Get ready for an experience that will stay with you long after you’ve left!

Available options

Private tour

Hanoi Highlights and Hidden Gems walking tour

What's included

Guided walking tour

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

This is our starting point for our awesome walking tour. We will introduce the group to some of the amazing history of Hanoi and where the battle of Hanoi took place.

Check out this amazing art wall that is a gift for the friendship from the Korean Government. Great photos here and into cultural site with each art wall.

Here we take a small break to take in this super famous site in Hanoi. Where you can see the local train pass by some local houses. Get the most amazing photos and video from the old train tracks.

Here we see the most well preserved French Indochina building in the old quarter.

Stop 5

Hear the stories of this amazing church come alive. This is the largest Roman catholic church in Hanoi. Hear how this church was shut down for more then 20 years during the Vietnam war.

Hear the amazing story about the amazing sward lake.

Get up close to the statue of the 3rd King of Vietnam that moved the capital to now what is know as Hanoi.

One of the most legendary guests of Hanoi’s Sofitel Metropole Hotel is Joan Baez, an American folk singer and activist. She was a guest of the hotel over Christmas in 1972 when the Americans began their ruthless 11-day bombing campaign under the name Operation Linebacker II. Baez and other guests were crammed into small, sweltering bomb shelters underneath the back courtyard where they remained throughout the duration of the raid. While the guests waited in fear, Baez played guitar and sang to keep their terror at bay. It was here that Baez partially recorded Where Are You Now, My Son.

Stop 9

End this amazing walking tour where the August uprising was held back in the summer of 1945.

Available languages

Guide guide

EN IT

Reviews breakdown

Tripadvisor 5.0

7 reviews

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Important information

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

Please meet our awesome walking tour guides in front of the war statue on the left hand side of the Old French market.

About Hanoi

Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam, is a vibrant city steeped in history and culture. Known for its French colonial architecture, bustling Old Quarter, and rich culinary scene, Hanoi offers a unique blend of traditional and modern experiences.

Top Attractions

Hoan Kiem Lake

Hoan Kiem Lake is a serene oasis in the heart of Hanoi, surrounded by lush greenery and historical landmarks. The lake is a popular spot for locals and tourists to relax and enjoy the scenery.

Nature 1-2 hours Free

Hanoi Old Quarter

The Old Quarter is the historic and cultural heart of Hanoi, featuring narrow streets lined with traditional shops, temples, and colonial-era architecture. It's a vibrant area with a rich history and bustling atmosphere.

Historical Half day to full day Free to explore, shopping and dining vary

Temple of Literature

The Temple of Literature is a historic Confucian temple dedicated to education and literature. It's a serene and culturally significant site, featuring beautiful architecture and a peaceful garden.

Historical 1-2 hours 30,000 VND

Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum

The Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum is a significant historical site where the embalmed body of Vietnam's revolutionary leader, Ho Chi Minh, is displayed. The mausoleum is a place of pilgrimage and a symbol of Vietnam's history.

Historical 1-2 hours Free

Hanoi Opera House

The Hanoi Opera House is a stunning example of French colonial architecture, featuring elegant design and a rich history. It's a popular venue for cultural performances and events.

Architecture 1-2 hours for a performance Varies by event

Must-Try Local Dishes

Pho

A traditional Vietnamese noodle soup with a flavorful broth, rice noodles, and thinly sliced meat, typically beef or chicken.

Lunch/Dinner Can be made vegetarian or vegan

Bun Cha

Grilled pork patties served with rice noodles, fresh herbs, and a dipping sauce.

Lunch/Dinner Contains meat

Banh Mi

A Vietnamese sandwich with a crispy baguette, filled with various ingredients such as grilled meat, pâté, pickled vegetables, and fresh herbs.

Snack/Lunch Can be made vegetarian or vegan

Egg Coffee

A unique Vietnamese coffee made with strong drip coffee, condensed milk, and a frothy egg yolk mixture.

Drink Contains eggs and dairy

Popular Activities

Kayaking in Ha Long Bay Trekking in Sapa Boat ride in Hoan Kiem Lake Coffee at a local café Exploring the Temple of Literature Visiting the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum Swimming and snorkeling in Ha Long Bay Egg coffee tasting

Best Time to Visit

October to December

This period offers pleasant weather with lower humidity and temperatures, making it ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities. The city is less crowded compared to the peak tourist season.

15°C to 25°C 59°F to 77°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Vietnamese
Widely spoken: English, French
English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited in other areas

Currency

Vietnamese Dong (VND)

Time Zone

GMT+7

Electricity

220VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Hanoi is generally safe for travelers, with low crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere. However, petty crime and scams can occur, and travelers should exercise caution and be aware of their surroundings.

Important Precautions:

• Be cautious of your belongings, particularly in crowded areas and on public transportation.
• Use reputable taxi companies and insist on using the meter or agree on a price before starting your journey.
• Be wary of strangers offering help or services, as they may be trying to scam you.

Getting there

By air

Noi Bai International Airport • 28 km from city center

By train

Hanoi Railway Station

By bus

Giap Bat Bus Station, My Dinh Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

The bus system in Hanoi is affordable and covers most of the city. However, it can be crowded and confusing for first-time visitors.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Grab, Gojek

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Old Quarter French Quarter Ba Dinh District Tay Ho District

Day trips

Ha Long Bay

165 km from Hanoi • Full day to overnight

Ha Long Bay is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its stunning limestone karsts and islets, emerald waters, and scenic beauty. It's a popular destination for cruises, kayaking, and exploring caves.

Ninh Binh

90 km from Hanoi • Full day

Ninh Binh is known as 'Halong Bay on land' due to its stunning limestone karsts, rice paddies, and historic sites. It's a popular destination for cycling, boat rides, and exploring ancient temples.

Sapa

320 km from Hanoi • Overnight to multi-day

Sapa is a mountainous region known for its stunning rice terraces, ethnic minority villages, and trekking opportunities. It's a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and cultural experiences.

Festivals

Tet Nguyen Dan (Lunar New Year) • January or February (based on the lunar calendar) Mid-Autumn Festival • September or October (based on the lunar calendar) Hanoi International Film Festival • October or November (annual)

Pro tips

Learn a few basic Vietnamese phrases to enhance your experience and connect with locals.
Explore the city's hidden gems and lesser-known attractions, such as the Hanoi Ceramic Mosaic Mural and the Temple of Literature.
Try local street food and visit markets for an authentic and delicious culinary experience.
Use a navigation app, such as Google Maps or GrabMaps, to help you get around the city and avoid getting lost.
Be cautious of your belongings, particularly in crowded areas and on public transportation, to avoid petty crime and scams.