Hanoi City Tour: Private Half-Day Customized with Train Street

Hanoi , Vietnam

Hanoi City Tour: Private Half-Day Customized with Train Street

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(306 reviews)

4h - 5h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

This private half-day tour of Hanoi is unique for its blend of iconic landmarks, cultural immersion, and local experiences. You'll visit the serene Tran Quoc Pagoda, the historic Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, and the thrilling Train Street, where a train passes inches from homes. Explore traditional craft streets in the Old Quarter, where artisans continue age-old trades, and end at the vibrant Dong Xuan Market, offering a taste of local life. The tour’s personalized nature allows for a deeper, more intimate connection with Hanoi’s rich heritage in a short amount of time.

Available options

Hanoi City Tour: Private Half-Day Customized with Train Street

Pickup included

What's included

Professional English-speaking guide

All entrance fees

Air-conditioned vehicle

Detailed itinerary

Located on a small island in the middle of West Lake, Tran Quoc Pagoda is the oldest Buddhist temple in Hanoi, dating back over 1,500 years. Explore the peaceful surroundings and learn about the history and significance of this ancient site.

Stop 2

The tour guide will take you to walk across the front of the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum to take photos and learn about his history. We do not enter the Mausoleum, as the queue can take approximately 1.5 hours. After that, you may visit the One Pillar Pagoda if you wish.

Experience the unique sight of Train Street, where trains pass just inches away from the homes and businesses lining the tracks. Witness the daily life of the locals who live and work here and enjoy a coffee at one of the nearby cafes.

Stop 4

Explore Hanoi's largest indoor market, where you can find everything from fresh produce and local delicacies to clothing and souvenirs. Take your time to shop and soak in the vibrant atmosphere of this bustling market.

Stop 5

Hanoi Opera House – A French Colonial Architectural Gem
Built by the French between 1901 and 1911, the Hanoi Opera House is one of the most iconic colonial buildings in Vietnam.

Long Bien Bridge – A Living Symbol of Hanoi
Built by the French from 1899–1902, Long Bien Bridge was once among the longest bridges in the world. During the Vietnam War, it was bombed 14 times but rebuilt every time, becoming a powerful symbol of Hanoi’s resilience.
Today, walking on the bridge offers stunning views of the Red River and a unique glimpse into local life—just minutes from the Old Quarter.

Stop 7

Start your tour with a visit to the stunning St. Joseph’s Cathedral, a prominent French colonial-era landmark.

Stop 8

Visit the infamous "Hanoi Hilton" (Hoa Lo Prison), a former French colonial prison that later housed American POWs during the Vietnam War.

Hoan Kiem Lake, known as the heart of Hanoi, is an important historical landmark. It is also called Sword Lake or Luc Thuy Lake. The name “Hoan Kiem” comes from the legend of King Le Loi returning the magical sword to the Golden Turtle after defeating the Ming invaders. The lake is famous for its peaceful scenery, green surroundings, and iconic structures such as Turtle Tower, The Huc Bridge, and Ngoc Son Temple.

What's not included

Personal expenses

Tips and gratuities

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.8

82 reviews

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Tripadvisor 4.9

224 reviews

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213

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Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

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.