Small Group_Hanoi’s Untold History Tour with locals and veterans

Hanoi , Vietnam

Small Group_Hanoi’s Untold History Tour with locals and veterans

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About this experience

This isn’t your typical city tour - it’s a walk through Hanoi’s memories.

The walk begins quietly—inside walls that once held revolutionaries, and later, captured airmen. From there, you’ll trace subtle shifts in time and tone: a lakeside temple older than the city itself, a modest stone relief near the water’s edge. Later, beside the wreckage of a fallen aircraft, stories emerge—not from books, but from those who lived them. Nothing is staged, yet everything carries meaning.

Though rooted in history, this experience isn’t only for history lovers. It’s for anyone curious about Hanoi’s layered soul—for those who wish to go beyond the surface, to feel the resilience and nuance behind the noise. This is not a lecture. It’s an experience with the city, through its people, its places, and its memories.

We end not with a conclusion, but a cup—Hanoi’s iconic egg coffee—served in a quiet corner where past and present gently meet.

Real stories. Real people. Real Hanoi. Real Vietnam.

Available options

Small Group_Hanoi’s Untold History Tour with locals and veterans

What's included

Inclusive: Hoa Lo Prison, B52 Victory Museum, Tran Quoc Pagoda

Bottled water

Professional English Speaking Guide

1 cup of Egg coffee (or 1 item of other equivalent drink) is included

Locals and Veterans

Pick up and drop off included. Cars/Van along the way

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

1st stop: Let's Go to Jail, where revolution was born. Built by the French in 1890s, to imprison Vietnamese revolutionaries, this place was meant to crush the spirit of independence. But it became a school of resistance.

Stop 2

Tran Quoc - the oldest Buddhist pagoda in Hanoi, nearly 1500 years. During the war, while bombs fell around Hanoi, this pagoda stood still. It was a place where people came to pray, light incense, and quietly hope they'd survive another night.

John McCain memorial - when enemies became peacemakers.
In 1967, US Navy pilot John McCain was shot down. His plane crashed into Truc Bach Lake - and he parachuted right into the water behind you.

What's better way to visit a museum with a veteran who served in Hanoi's air defense during 1972 bombings.

A B52 bomber, once feared in the skies, now lying quietly in a pond. A real wreckage, which was shot down during the Christmas bombings of 1972. You will meet one of very few survivors who lived this story - not through books, but through their bones.

End our journey not in fear, but flavor - with Hanoi's most famous drink: egg coffee. Watch and learn how they invented and made it through hardship. As you sip, think of this: a city that survived fire and fear, now serving warmth and welcome. That's Hanoi. That's Vietnam.

What's not included

Tipping is optional

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Tripadvisor 5.0

2 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

Let's gather at the ticket office at the front entrance of Hoa Lo Prison

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.