Hanoi Private Tour with a Local Guide
Active
2h - 8h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Your expert local guide will show you the city's highlights and hidden gems. On this walking tour you will be able to see a lot of places within a short timeframe. Apart from explaining the sights, your guide can provide insight into the history and culture of the city and the country in general. The focus of this tour is to see the city through the eyes of a local. This private tour can be customized according to your personal preferences. Sightseeing points to visit can be agreed upon in advance or discussed when meeting up. Therefore, the sightseeing points listed below in the itinerary are just an example of what is possible. Your guide can suggest other sightseeing points that better suit your interests. Please note that this is a tour with a local person or expat, not with a tour guide who has detailed historical knowledge. If such knowledge is important to you, you should book another tour.
Available options
8-hour tour
Duration: 8 hours: Choose this option to spend a full day exploring the city's main attractions and hidden gems.<br/>Pickup included
3-hour tour
Duration: 3 hours: Choose this option to visit some of the city's main attractions and discover 1 or 2 hidden gems.<br/>Pickup included
6-hour tour
Duration: 6 hours: Choose this option to experience 2-3 districts in the city.<br/>Pickup included
2-hour tour
Duration: 2 hours: Choose this option if you have very limited time and want a brief overview of 1-2 districts with a few selected attractions.<br/>Pickup included
4-hour tour
Duration: 4 hours: Choose this option if you have more time to explore the city's main attractions and discover hidden gems.<br/>Pickup included
What's included
Hotel pickup and drop-off
Walking tour (fully customizable and private)
Local tour guide (Vietnamese or expat)
Detailed itinerary
1
Explore the bustling Hanoi Old Quarter, a labyrinth of narrow streets, traditional shop houses, and vibrant street life. Your guide will help you discover its "best parts" and "hidden secrets," offering insight into Hanoi's rich history, commerce, and daily life.
2
Stop 2
Take a stroll around Hoan Kiem Lake, a central and iconic landmark in Hanoi. This picturesque lake is surrounded by historical sites like Ngoc Son Temple and Turtle Tower, offering a serene escape and a popular spot for locals for morning exercises and evening walks.
3
A unique and thrilling attraction where a railway track runs through a narrow residential street. Visitors can witness trains passing just inches from homes while enjoying local coffee shops along the tracks.
4
Visit the Temple of Literature, one of Hanoi's main sightseeing places. This historic complex served as Vietnam's first national university and is a beautiful example of traditional Vietnamese architecture. It symbolizes the country's reverence for scholarship and education.
5
Stop 5
A historic site known as the "Hanoi Hilton," where political prisoners were held during the French colonial era and American POWs during the Vietnam War. Now a museum, it offers a glimpse into Vietnam’s past through exhibits, preserved prison cells, and artifacts.
6
Stop 6
Admire the magnificent Hanoi Opera House, a grand French colonial building that stands as a significant architectural landmark and cultural venue in Hanoi. Its elaborate design and historical importance make it a popular photo stop.
7
Stop 7
Discover the Long Bien Bridge, one of Hanoi's "hidden secrets." This historic cantilever bridge, stretching across the Red River, is a poignant symbol of Hanoi's resilience and history. A walk across offers unique perspectives of the city and its waterways.
8
Stop 8
Explore Dong Xuan Market, Hanoi's largest indoor market, located within the Old Quarter. This bustling multi-story market offers a vast array of goods, from clothing and household items to electronics and local foodstuffs, providing an authentic local shopping experience.
9
Explore parts of the Tay Ho District, which is full of hidden secrets. This expansive district surrounds West Lake, offering a more tranquil atmosphere with beautiful lakeside views, ancient temples, and a vibrant expatriate community. It provides a different facet of Hanoi's urban landscape.
10
Stop 10
Chua Tran Quoc is the oldest Buddhist pagoda in Hanoi, dating back over 1,500 years, and is beautifully situated on a small islet in the serene West Lake. This tranquil site is famed for its striking 11-story stupa and a sacred Bodhi tree, grown from a cutting of the original tree where the Buddha attained enlightenment. A visit offers a peaceful escape and a deep look into Vietnam's spiritual and architectural heritage.
11
Stop 11
Visit the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum Complex, a significant historical and cultural site dedicated to Vietnam's revered leader. The complex includes Ho Chi Minh's Mausoleum, the One Pillar Pagoda, Ho Chi Minh's Stilt House, and the Ho Chi Minh Museum, offering a deep dive into modern Vietnamese history.
What's not included
Tickets for public transport (not necessary as it is a walking tour)
Gratuities
Available languages
Guide guide
VI
EN
Important information
Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Meeting point
Meet your guide at Cafe Giảng, famous for egg coffee.
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.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
