Hanoi Old Quarter City Sightseeing Private Tour With Local Guide
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Hanoi Old Quarter City Sightseeing Private Tour With Local Guide

Active
(10 reviews)
4h
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

Experience the rich history and vibrant street life of Vietnam’s capital on this guided walking tour through Hanoi’s Old Quarter. Stroll past colonial-era buildings, bustling markets, and sacred temples as your local guide shares stories from Hanoi’s thousand-year history.

Visit key landmarks like Hoan Kiem Lake, Ngoc Son Temple, St. Joseph’s Cathedral, and the iconic Train Street, Vietnamese Women’s Museum, Hoa Lo Prison, Vietnam National Museum of History, Temple of Literature, Tran Quoc Pagoda, West Lake.

Choose your preferred mode of transport: walking, car. If you choose to walk, Grab cars are available for easy travel between attractions, and excluded! After 16:00 All Museum are closed. All Tickets are excluded. You can customize the tour with your interesting within 4 hours

Available options

Private Motorbike Tour

Duration: 4 hours<br/>Motorbike<br/>Pickup included

Private Walking Tour

Duration: 4 hours<br/>Walking: Grab car is excluded<br/>Pickup included

Private Car Tour

Duration: 4 hours<br/>Car<br/>Pickup included

What's included

Pick-up, Drop-off At Ha Noi Old Quarter
Good Quality AC Transportation
English Speaking Tour Guide

Detailed itinerary

1
Stop 1

The most faumous temple

2
Stop 2 Pass by

The Hanoi Opera House, or the Grand Opera House is an opera house in central Hanoi, Vietnam. It was erected by the French colonial administration between 1901 and 1911.

3
Stop 3

The President Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum (Vietnamese: Lăng Chủ tịch Hồ Chí Minh) is a mausoleum which serves as the resting place of Vietnamese revolutionary leader and President Ho Chi Minh in Hanoi, Vietnam.[1][2] It is a large building located in the center of Ba Đình Square, where Ho, Chairman of the Workers' Party of Vietnam from 1951 until his death in 1969, read the Declaration of Independence on 2 September 1945, establishing the Democratic Republic of Vietnam. It is open to the public every morning except Monday and Friday. (Only in the morning)

4
Stop 4 Pass by

The largest lake in Hanoi, West Lake offers a peaceful contrast to the city’s chaos. Enjoy a scenic stroll and admire historic temples and upscale neighborhoods nearby.

5
Stop 5 Pass by

Long Bien Bridge was constructed by the French from 1899 to 1902. It used to be named after the then Governor-General of French Indochina – Paul Doumer. This work is likened to a witness to the history of Hanoi, as the bridge has seen many fierce battles during the two Indochina Wars against the French and Americans.

6
Stop 6

The One Pillar Pagoda was built in 1049, under the reign of King Ly Thai Tong. According to folklore, once in his dream, the childless king saw Phat Ba Quan Am or the Goddess of Mercy sitting on a lotus throne with radiant halo around her head and handing him a baby son.

7

Hanoi Train Street is a narrow train bypass in Hanoi which sees a twice-daily train pass close to buildings on either side of the tracks (the railroad tracks take up nearly the entirety of the "train street").[1] The track was built by the French in 1902 and is still an active rail line as of 2023.

8
Stop 8 Pass by

Hoàn Kiếm Lake, also known as Sword Lake or Tả Vọng Lake, is a fresh water lake, measuring some 12 ha in the historical center of Hanoi, the capital city of Vietnam. In the past, the lake was variously named "Lục Thủy Lake" or "Thủy Quân Lake"

9
Stop 9 Pass by

St. Joseph's Cathedral is a Catholic church on Nhà Chung Street, in the Hoàn Kiếm District of Hanoi, Vietnam. It is a late 19th-century Gothic Revival church that serves as the cathedral of the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Hanoi. The cathedral is named after Joseph, the patron saint of Vietnam.

10
Stop 10

End your walking tour at the serene and scholarly Temple of Literature, Vietnam’s first national university, founded in 1070. Dedicated to Confucius, this peaceful complex features traditional Vietnamese architecture, ancient stelae, and well-preserved courtyards. A symbol of education and national pride, it’s one of Hanoi’s most revered historical landmarks.

11

Located in Hanoi, the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology is one of the country’s most fascinating cultural institutions. Dedicated to showcasing the rich heritage of Vietnam’s 54 ethnic groups, the museum offers visitors a deep and interactive look into the traditions, lifestyles, and beliefs that shape the nation’s cultural mosaic.

What's not included

Grab Car (Walking Option)
Holiday Surcharge
All Ticket Entrance

Available languages

Guide guide
EN

Reviews breakdown

Tripadvisor 5.0
10 reviews
5★
10
4★
0
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0

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.
From $25 per person

Price varies by option

Adults
Age 5-70
1
Infants
Age 1-4
0
Booking requirements:
  • Min travelers: 1
  • Max travelers: 15
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation

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