Travel to Hanoi in North Vietnam, the capital of Vietnam with our top tours & accommodations! Visit Train Street, Hoa Lo Prison, and experience local food and vibrant nightlife. Book now for unforgettable adventures in North Vietnam, like Ha Giang, Halong Bay, Ninh Binh and more, all starting here in Hanoi!

Hanoi has always been considered as Vietnam’s cultural and historical gem. If you don’t know how to make the most of your experience and explore the city’s rich heritage, let us help you here! We will take you on a captivating Hanoi city tour through the best 15 destinations, plus insider tips on where to stay for optimal convenience. 

One-day Hanoi City Tour Map: Top 15 Best Destinations

It’s time to embark on the best Hanoi city tour 1 day and discover the city’s charming sites! 

You can begin with iconic spots like Hoan Kiem Lake and the Old Quarter before going on to explore historical treasures like the Temple of Literature, Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, and Thang Long Imperial Citadel, each offering a glimpse into Vietnam’s rich heritage. For a cultural dive, don’t forget unique spots on your city tour Hanoi 1 day, like Hanoi Train Street, Beer Street, and Bat Trang Ceramic Village.

1. Hoan Kiem Lake (Lake of The Returned Sword)

One of the most popular destinations for your Hanoi city tour is Hoan Kiem Lake, which is considered by many as the spiritual and cultural heart of Hanoi. 

Its name (meaning “Lake of the Returned Sword”) is rooted in a legend about Emperor Le Loi, who was said to have received a magical sword from the gods to defeat invaders. After his victory, a golden turtle emerged from the lake and reclaimed the sword, returning it to its divine owners. 

Today, the lake is a tranquil oasis in the bustling city, surrounded by walking paths, lush trees, benches, and more. At its center lies Tortoise Tower, a small pagoda rising from a tiny islet, and Ngoc Son Temple, accessible via the bright red Huc Bridge. The area comes alive in the mornings with locals practicing tai chi and in the evenings with tourists and residents enjoying the lake’s serene ambiance.

2. Old Quarter (Pho Co)

Next on our list of destinations for your 1 day Hanoi tour is the Old Quarter of Hano, a lovely and vibrant maze of 36 narrow streets. Each of these streets is historically dedicated to a specific trade or craft, such as silverware, silk, or herbal medicine. 

The neighborhood delivers a truly sensory overload that will fill all your five senses with motorbikes, street vendors, and local shops. Better yet, it’s also a haven for food lovers, with numerous iconic dishes like pho, banh mi, and egg coffee. Not to mention, the area is also rich in history, where you can let yourself get lost in inspiring stories about centuries-old temples, pagodas, and French colonial architecture. 

We recommend you explore Dong Xuan Market, Hanoi’s largest indoor market, or simply wander through the alleys to soak in the local culture. And that’s not all; at night, the Old Quarter transforms into a lively hub of bars, street performances, and night markets rarely seen elsewhere.

3. Temple of Literature (Van Mieu – Quoc Tu Giam)

There’s no denying it: The Temple of Literature is a stunning example of traditional Vietnamese architecture and a symbol of Vietnam’s rich academic heritage. 

Founded in 1070 and dedicated to Confucius, the temple later became the site of Vietnam’s first university. The complex features five courtyards, each with its own unique design and purpose. You will also stumble upon the Well of Heavenly Clarity, flanked by rows of stone steles engraved with the names of successful scholars.

Once arriving here, visitors can admire the intricate carvings, ancient trees, and peaceful gardens while learning about Vietnam’s educational history during their free city tour Hanoi. Another interesting tidbit: the temple is also a popular site for students to pray for success before exams.

4. Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum

Of course, we cannot forget about the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, one of Hanoi’s most iconic landmarks, which houses the embalmed body of Vietnam’s revolutionary leader. 

It’s located in Ba Dinh Square, where Ho Chi Minh declared independence in 1945; hence, the mausoleum is a solemn and revered site. The structure itself is imposing, made of gray granite with simple, austere architecture reflecting Ho Chi Minh’s humility. 

During their city tour in Hanoi Vietnam, visitors queue to pay their respects before entering a dimly lit chamber where Ho Chi Minh’s body lies in a glass case. The surrounding gardens (featuring diverse flora representing different regions of Vietnam) only create an even more serene atmosphere.

5. Presidential Palace and Ho Chi Minh’s Stilt House

Adjacent to the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, the Presidential Palace is a striking French colonial building that once housed the Governor-General of Indochina. 

While the palace itself is not open to the public, visitors can still explore Ho Chi Minh’s stilt house nearby. As its design aims to reflect Ho Chi Minh’s modest lifestyle, the stilt house is a simple, two-room wooden structure surrounded by a peaceful fish pond and gardens. During your Hanoi 1 day tour, you will get an intimate glimpse into Ho Chi Minh’s personal life and values, as well as his admirable connection to nature.

6. Thang Long Imperial Citadel

The Thang Long Imperial Citadel, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a treasure goldmine of history spanning over a millennium. Once the political and cultural center of Vietnam, the citadel’s ruins reveal layers of history from the Ly, Tran, and Nguyen dynasties.

Here’s your chance to explore ancient gates, foundations, and artifacts discovered during excavations. Plus, the Flag Tower (considered by millions as the iconic symbol of Hanoi) is also part of the complex and offers panoramic views of the city. The site even houses an underground bunker used during the Vietnam War, which brings another layer of historical yet modern charm to this ancient landmark.

7. Hanoi Opera House

Don’t miss the chance to visit the Hanoi Opera House (built in 1911), a masterpiece of French colonial architecture modeled after the Palais Garnier in Paris.

It’s not exaggerating to claim that it is a symbol of cultural sophistication and a hub for artistic performances in Hanoi. The building’s exterior features elegant columns, balconies, and ornate detailing, while the interior boasts a lavish auditorium with excellent acoustics. Feel free to invite yourself to a variety of performances, including traditional Vietnamese music, ballet, and international operas. And even for those not attending any show, the opera house is a stunning architectural highlight regardless!

8. Vietnam Museum of Ethnology

Are you interested in Vietnam’s cultural diversity? In that case, the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology is a fascinating destination for your Hanoi full day tour!

The museum showcases the traditions, costumes, and lifestyles of Vietnam’s 54 ethnic groups through exhibits, videos, and artifacts. Outside, you will find yourself gaping in awe at the full-scale replicas of traditional homes, including stilt houses and communal longhouses. All in all, the museum provides an incredibly immersive journey into the daily lives, festivals, and spiritual practices of Vietnam’s ethnic communities.

9. Hoa Lo Prison (Hanoi Hilton)

Hoa Lo Prison, often referred to as the “Hanoi Hilton” by American POWs, is a historical site that tells the story of Vietnam’s colonial and wartime struggles.

Originally built by the French to detain Vietnamese political prisoners, the prison later housed American pilots captured during the Vietnam War. The museum exhibits include original cells, guillotines, and displays about the harsh conditions faced by prisoners. It’s a somber yet important site that offers you a truly insightful understanding of Vietnam’s rich history and the resilience of its people.

10. Vietnam Fine Arts Museum

As its name suggests, the Vietnam Fine Arts Museum is an excellent trove of traditional and contemporary Vietnamese art.

The collection spans centuries, featuring sculptures, lacquerware, silk paintings, and ceramics. Some notable, non-skip highlights include ancient Cham artifacts, traditional Dong Ho folk paintings, and works by modern Vietnamese artists. Furthermore, the museum’s layout allows visitors to trace the evolution of Vietnamese art, which lends a comprehensive overview of the country’s impressive artistic heritage.

11. West Lake (Ho Tay)

As the largest lake in Hanoi, West Lake serves as a serene escape from the city’s hustle and bustle. Surrounded by upscale neighborhoods, cafes, and historic sites, it’s (unsurprisingly) an extremely popular spot for both locals and tourists.

To enjoy the scenic views on your Hanoi free city tour, you can always rent bicycles or stroll along the lake’s perimeter. The area is also home to Tran Quoc Pagoda, one of Vietnam’s oldest Buddhist temples, and Quan Thanh Temple, dedicated to Taoist worship.

12. Hanoi Train Street

Hanoi Train Street is a unique and thrilling attraction where a train passes through a narrow residential street. The train’s approach is a spectacle, which explains why many locals are ready to clear their belongings and visitors impatiently snap their cameras over and over to capture the dramatic scene. Not to mention, the area is lined with cafes that offer a front-row seat to this extraordinary experience.

13. Dong Xuan Market

Dong Xuan Market is Hanoi’s largest indoor market, where you will find yourself getting lost in a wide range of goods – from textiles and electronics to street food. Not to mention, it’s also a bustling, busy hub of activity that truly gives you a taste of Hanoi’s commerce and culture. And let’s not forget about another highlight – the food court, which serves hundreds of authentic dishes like bun cha and xoi.

14. Ta Hien Street (Beer Street)

Ta Hien Street, known as Beer Street, is a backpacker’s paradise. The street is lined with small bars and eateries serving cheap beer and local snacks. It’s a lively spot to meet fellow travelers and soak in Hanoi’s vibrant nightlife.

15. Bat Trang Ceramic Village

Lastly, the Bat Trang Ceramic Village is a short trip from Hanoi, famous for its traditional pottery. We strongly recommend you stop by to watch artisans at work or(if desired) even try your hand at making your own ceramic creations! And here’s the best part: the village is a wonderful place to purchase unique souvenirs and learn about Vietnam’s ceramic heritage.

Where Should You Stay on Your Hanoi City Tour Full Day?

As soon as you contact Vietnam Backpackers Hostels, our team will ensure you can choose between the three fantastic accommodation options below:

Diamond King Hotel & Restaurant

Address: 86 Ma May

The prices range from $40 to $80 per night, with elegantly designed rooms that feature modern amenities like plush bedding, air conditioning, free Wi-Fi, and flat-screen TVs.

And the best part? Given its proximity to Hanoi’s iconic Hoan Kiem Lake and the bustling Old Quarter, you are entirely within walking distance of the city’s cultural landmarks and delectable street food stalls. The on-site restaurant serves a variety of local and international dishes, and the hotel staff have been praised for their attentiveness and commitment to providing a 5-star stay.

Cheers Hostel

Address: 5 Au Trieu Street

Cheers Hotel, on the other hand, is perfect for budget-conscious backpackers, with dormitory beds priced between $10 and $15 and private rooms ranging from $30 to $50. Its prime location (near the heart of Hanoi’s Old Quarter) ensures easy access to major attractions such as St. Joseph’s Cathedral, Hoan Kiem Lake, and the bustling night markets.

The hostel’s common areas are designed to encourage interaction, with cozy lounges and organized social events that make it easier than ever to connect with fellow travelers. Rooms are clean and functional, equipped with lockers, comfortable bedding, and air conditioning. You will also benefit from complimentary breakfast and travel advice from the friendly staff, who go the extra mile to ensure an enjoyable stay.

Mad Monkey Hanoi

Address: 11 Ma May Street

Last but not least, Mad Monkey Hanoi exudes a vibrant, energetic vibe ideal for young travelers, and its dormitory beds start at just $7.

As one of the most well-known properties for socializing, the hotel prides itself on a beautiful rooftop bar with sweeping views of Hanoi and nightly events that include themed parties and happy hours. Plus, given the privacy curtains, individual charging ports, and spacious lockers, it’s quite clear the dormitories are designed for optimal comfort and practicality.

Ready for your Hanoi City Tour?

Vietnam Backpacker Hostels provides a wide range of exciting Hanoi city tour packages tailored to high-spirited backpackers and adventure seekers. There’s something for everyone; it’s time to book your stay now!

If you still have questions or need assistance planning your trip, don’t hesitate to contact us through the following channels:

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