Hanoi , Vietnam

Hanoi Discovery - Half Day City Tour

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About this experience

Private Tour: Explore Hanoi’s famous landmarks and captivating highlights! Glide through the iconic 36 Streets of the Old Quarter on a traditional cyclo ride, and marvel at the enchanting Hoan Kiem Lake. Discover the solemn beauty of the Temple of Literature and Tran Quoc Pagoda, two of the city’s most treasured cultural sites. Finally, experience something truly unique — sip a cup of rich Vietnamese coffee as the train passes just inches away on Hanoi’s Train Street.
Group Tour:
- Morning: Tran Quoc Pagoda, Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, Vietnam Ethnology Museum, or Women's Museum on Mondays
- Afternoon: Temple of Literature, Hoa Lo Prison Museum

Available options

Private Tour

Group Tour

Pickup included

What's included

Private transportation

Bottled water

Entrance fee

Coffee in Hanoi Train Street

Experienced tour guide

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Tran Quoc Pagoda is the oldest Buddhist temple in Hanoi, located on a small island in West Lake. Built more than 1,500 years ago, it is not only a spiritual center but also an architectural gem of Vietnam. The pagoda is famous for its elegant structure, ancient stupa tower, and peaceful scenery surrounded by water. Visitors come here to admire its beauty, learn about Vietnamese Buddhism, and enjoy a moment of serenity amid the bustling city.

Stop 2

The Temple of Literature – Quoc Tu Giam is a must-visit destination in Hanoi, where history, culture, and beauty come together. Built in 1070, this ancient site was Vietnam’s first national university and a place honoring Confucius and great scholars. Strolling through its charming courtyards, ancient pavilions, and peaceful gardens, visitors can feel the spirit of wisdom and tradition that has shaped Vietnamese culture for centuries. It’s the perfect spot to explore, take beautiful photos, and experience the soul of Hanoi.

Stop 3

Explore Hanoi’s Old Quarter by Cyclo for an unforgettable local experience! Sitting back in a traditional three-wheel rickshaw, you can slowly wander through the bustling streets filled with charming colonial buildings, colorful shops, and delicious street food aromas. The gentle ride allows you to take in the city’s vibrant atmosphere, observe daily life, and capture beautiful photos along the way. It’s a perfect way to discover the authentic charm of Hanoi at your own relaxing pace.

Hanoi Train Street Coffee is one of the city’s most unique and exciting experiences. Here, you can sit in a cozy café just inches away from the railway tracks, sip on authentic Vietnamese coffee, and watch the train pass by up close — a thrilling moment that amazes every visitor. It’s a perfect blend of local lifestyle, creativity, and adventure, offering a truly unforgettable memory in the heart of Hanoi.

What's not included

Gratuities

Personal expenses

Available languages

Guide guide

DE ZH-TW KO JA EN IT FR ES

Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Specialized infant seats are available

Transportation options are wheelchair accessible

All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

We will send the information about the car transfer, tour guide, and pick-up time at the meeting point to the customer one day before the tour starts

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.