Hanoi Old Quarter City Sightseeing Walking Tour With Funny Guide
Active
4h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Discover the charm of Vietnam’s capital with a Private Half-Day City Sightseeing Tour that showcases Hanoi’s deep-rooted history and vibrant street life.
Your journey begins at the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, a solemn tribute to the revered national leader. Nearby, admire the architectural elegance of the One Pillar Pagoda.
Continue to the Imperial Citadel of Thang Long, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that offers a fascinating glimpse into Hanoi’s imperial past. Then, immerse yourself in the energy of the Old Quarter, where winding streets brim with colorful shops, bustling food stalls, and daily local life.
Take a serene stroll around Hoan Kiem Lake, explore the animated scenes along Walking Street and Ta Hien Street.
Your tour also includes a visit to the historic Long Bien Bridge, the thought-provoking Hoa Lo Prison, offering insights into Vietnam’s colonial era.
End your experience at the remarkable Train Street, where trains pass just inches from residential homes.
Available options
Private Walking Tour
Duration: 4 hours<br/>Walking<br/>Pickup included
Private Tour + 1 Hour Cyclo
+ 1 Hour Cyclo Tour<br/>Duration: 4 hours<br/>Walking<br/>Pickup included
Private Tour + Puppet Show
+ Water Puppet Show<br/>Duration: 4 hours<br/>Walking<br/>Pickup included
What's included
1,5L Bottle Of Water
Imperial Citadel of Thang Long Ticket Entrance
Pick-up, Drop-off In Hanoi Old Quarter
Hoa Lo Prison Ticket Entrance
English Speaking Tour Guide
Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum Ticket Entrance (In The Morning)
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum – Pay respects to Vietnam’s revolutionary leader at this monumental structure, which houses the embalmed body of Ho Chi Minh. It’s a significant symbol of Vietnam’s history and leadership.
2
Stop 2
One Pillar Pagoda – Visit this iconic, uniquely designed pagoda built on a single pillar, symbolizing Vietnam’s rich Buddhist heritage and architectural ingenuity.
3
Stop 3
Old Quarter – Wander through the bustling streets of Hanoi's Old Quarter, filled with charming colonial buildings, traditional shops, and vibrant street life. It’s a great place to soak up local culture and experience Hanoi’s unique charm.
4
Imperial Citadel of Thang Long – Step back in time at this UNESCO World Heritage site, a historical center that was once the heart of Vietnam’s dynastic rulers and a key military base.
5
Stop 5
Pass by
Hoan Kiem Lake – Take a peaceful stroll around this serene lake, located in the heart of Hanoi. It is a significant cultural and historical landmark, home to the famous Turtle Tower and legend.
6
Walking Street – Explore Hanoi's Walking Street, a pedestrian-only area that comes alive with street vendors, food stalls, and local entertainment, especially on weekends. It’s a fun, energetic space to experience Hanoi’s vibrant atmosphere.
7
Stop 7
Long Bien Bridge – Admire this historical bridge that spans the Red River. Built during French colonial times, the Long Bien Bridge is a symbol of Hanoi’s resilience and an iconic piece of its architectural history.
8
Ta Hien Street – Known as "Beer Street," this lively street is famous for its street food, affordable drinks, and bustling nightlife, perfect for those who want to dive into Hanoi’s social scene. (At night
9
Stop 9
Hoa Lo Prison – Visit the infamous Hoa Lo Prison, also known as the “Hanoi Hilton.” This historical site tells the story of the French colonial era and the Vietnam War, with exhibits about its use as a prison for political prisoners.
10
Train Street – End your tour at Train Street, one of Hanoi’s most unique and photogenic spots, where trains pass just inches away from local homes and cafes, creating a lively and fascinating urban experience.
What's not included
Grab Car (Self-Paid)
Pick-up, Drop-off Surcharge If Outside Old Quarter
Holiday Surcharge
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
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
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
