Hanoi tourist information – what to do

One of the reasons that Hanoi is steadily growing in popularity among foreign visitors is that there is such a diverse range of things to do and see here. It’s quite possible to stroll round one of its many museums in the morning, relax in a park in the afternoon, then sample a glass of the local bia hoi before taking in a performance at the Opera House in the evening, then do a completely different set of activities the following day.

Given the fact that the city is 1,000 years old, it’s not surprising that there are plenty of historic sites to visit, such as the Temple of Literature and the One Pillar Pagoda, so sightseeing can occupy several days just to see the main attractions. However, sightseeing can be both physically and mentally taxing, so it pays to mix up your activities and avoid trying to fit too much in to one day.

It would be a crime against your stomach not to indulge in as many of the city’s fine restaurants as you possibly can, savouring regional Vietnamese dishes as well as the occasional Indian or Japanese meal when the urge strikes. Likewise, Hanoi’s bars are worthy of extensive research in order to decide which shakes the meanest cocktail, which has the coolest ambience and which the best live music. There are plenty of other entertainment options to consider as well, including the cinema, night clubs and performances of traditional dance or water puppets.

The Vietnamese all seem to have a gift for art, so when you go shopping, look out for paintings by aspiring Picassos, locally-woven silk scarves and recordings by traditional or modern musicians. These make not only excellent souvenirs for yourself, but also ideal gifts for friends back home.

Sightseeing
From the Old Quarter to the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, Hanoi has plenty of unusual sights… more

Festivals
Sample delectable Vietnamese fare whilst drinking in the sublime culture at one of Hanoi’s many festivals… more

Shopping
Pick up backstreet bargains or stylish designs in the city’s shopping malls… more

Entertainment
Chuckle over the antics of the water puppets or catch a performance of live jazz… more

Activities
There is much to do in Hanoi and we have the complete rundown of activities in town… more