Private Hanoi City Tour Half Day
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
Hanoi is a city that allows visitors to step back in time while simultaneously embracing modern life. Its combination of ancient culture, history, food, and spiritual depth creates a unique and dynamic experience that you can’t find anywhere else in Southeast Asia. Whether it’s the food, the people, or the history, every corner of Hanoi feels full of rich stories waiting to be discovered.
Available options
Private Hanoi City Tour Half Day
Multiple language option: English, German, French, Italian, Russian, Spanish,...etc. Flexible schedule & itinerary<br/>Pickup included
Group Tour
Itinerary: In The Morning: Tran Quoc Pagoda, Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, Museum of Ethnology
In The Afternoon: Temple of Literature, Hoa Lo<br/>Pickup included
What's included
English-speaking guide (Surcharge for other laguages)
Egg Coffee at the local coffee shop
Comfortable A/C vehicle
Bottled water on the car
All entrance tickets (if applicable)
Detailed itinerary
1
Morning Option: 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM (time can be advised)
Afternoon Option: 1:30 PM – 5:30 PM (time can be advised)
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1. Hotel Pick-Up
Time: 8:00 AM / 1:30 PM
Your local guide will meet you in the hotel lobby (usually in the Old Quarter area).
Quick briefing about Hanoi, tour highlights, and any special preferences you might have (e.g., walking vs. driving, coffee stop, etc.).
_________
2. Ho Chi Minh Complex
Time: 8:15 AM – 9:00 AM / 1:45 PM – 2:30 PM
Includes:
Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum (outside only in the afternoon; inside visit only possible in the morning)
Presidential Palace (French colonial architecture, viewed from outside)
One Pillar Pagoda – iconic lotus-shaped Buddhist pagoda, originally built in 1049
Note: The Mausoleum is closed on Mondays, Fridays, and every afternoon. Modest dress (no shorts or sleeveless tops) is required if entering.
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2
Stop 2
3. Temple of Literature (Văn Miếu – Quốc Tử Giám)
Time: 9:00 AM – 9:45 AM / 2:30 PM – 3:15 PM
Known as Vietnam’s first national university (built in 1070), this peaceful sanctuary is filled with beautiful courtyards, ancient trees, and Confucian architecture.
Learn about the traditional Vietnamese education system and see the stone steles of scholars.
_________
4. Hoa Lo Prison (Maison Centrale)
Time: 9:45 AM – 10:30 AM / 3:15 PM – 4:00 PM
Originally built by the French to house political prisoners and later used to hold American POWs during the Vietnam War (including John McCain).
A sobering, informative visit about Vietnam's colonial past and war history.
3
5. Hanoi Old Quarter Tour (Walking or Cyclo Ride)
Time: 10:30 AM – 11:15 AM / 4:00 PM – 4:45 PM
Explore the bustling, colorful Old Quarter – a maze of 36 ancient streets, each once specializing in a particular trade (silk, paper, herbs, etc.).
Options:
Walking Tour – Stop at small local shops and hidden alleyways
Cyclo Ride – Traditional bicycle rickshaw for a relaxed ride through the streets
4
6. Optional Egg Coffee Stop
Time: 11:15 AM – 11:45 AM / 4:45 PM – 5:15 PM
Visit Giảng Café or a hidden local café to try Hanoi’s famous egg coffee – a unique mix of egg yolk, sugar, condensed milk, and robust Vietnamese coffee.
Or, opt for a quick Bánh mì, fresh sugarcane juice, or other local treats if coffee’s not your thing.
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7. Return to Hotel
Time: 12:00 PM / 5:30 PM
Your guide will drop you back at your hotel or at a central location if you’d like to continue exploring on your own.
What's not included
Tips and Personal expenses
Others not mentioned in the schedule
Surcharge for other languages
Surcharge for the holidays in Vietnam
Available languages
Guide guide
DE
VI
RU
KO
CMN
JA
EN
ZH-CN
IT
FR
ES
Reviews breakdown
Tripadvisor
5.0
44 reviews
5★
44
4★
0
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Important information
Public transportation options are available nearby
Specialized infant seats are available
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
