BEST Things To Do In Northern Vietnam: The Ultimate Guide

Hanoi is the capital city of Vietnam and is home to a unique blend of cultures, historic landmarks, and natural beauty. From exploring the Old Quarter to taking a cruise on Halong Bay, there are plenty of things to see and do in Hanoi.

This blog post will share my top picks for the best things to do in Hanoi and its outskirts area. I’ll also provide helpful tips on making the most of your trip.

Places To Visit In North of Vietnam: Attractions & Activities

Hanoi City Tour

A city tour is a perfect way to get acquainted with Hanoi. Start your day by exploring the Old Quarter, where you can see traditional Vietnamese architecture and learn about the city’s rich history.

To sum up, you will be visiting the places below:

1. Old Quarter
2. St. Joseph’s Cathedral
3. Vietnam Museum of Ethnology
4. Hoan Kiem Lake
5. One Pillar Pagoda
6. Tran Quoc Pagoda
7. Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum Complex
8. Ngọc Sơn Temple
9. Railway Cafe
10. Temple of Literature
11. Imperial Citadel of Thang Long
12. Vietnamese Women’s Museum

1. Old Quarter

Old Quarter is one of Hanoi’s hotspots -probably the oldest neighbourhood in the city and it has also been the main business hub for over 500 years. Today, it’s still the city’s economic centre and a heart of everything – architecture, history, trade, and even a place to meet other tourists.

Despite being part of a fast-developing city, the Old Quarter has managed to retain its antique and distinctive vibe. With its old buildings, this area creates a captivating contrast with the high-rises and modern architecture of the growing Hanoi. 

Boasting narrow streets, loads of craftsmen’s shops, restaurants, bars, shopping areas, and hotels, this area also known as Hoan Kiem District is an interesting place to wander around. Shopping for souvenirs, enjoying a local delicacy, or having a drink in one of the walkways as you people-watch are some of the best things to do in Hanoi Old Quarter.

2. St. Joseph’s Cathedral

St. Joseph’s Cathedral is a late 19th-century Gothic Revival-style edifice located in Hanoi, Vietnam. It serves as the cathedral of the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Hanoi and is named after Joseph, the patron saint of Vietnam.

Construction began in 1884 and the church was officially opened in December 1886, making it the oldest church in Hanoi. The design of the building is similar to that of the Notre Dame de Paris.

3. Vietnam Museum of Ethnology

The Vietnam Museum of Ethnology is a museum located in Hanoi, Vietnam that showcases the various ethnic groups in the country.

Spanning 43,799 square meters, it is situated 8 km from the city centre in the Cau Giay District and is a part of the Vietnam Academy of Social Sciences, an academic institute of the Vietnamese Government.

4. Hoan Kiem Lake

Set in the heart of the historic centre of Hanoi, Hoan Kiem Lake is not only a peaceful place where you can escape to take a break from the hustle and the bustle of the city but it’s also a place of historical significance.

Legend has it that in 1428 when Vietnam was at war with Chinese oppressors, the emperor Le Loi acquired a magical sword from a Dragon King which helped him win the battle.

After the war, a huge golden turtle surfaced from the lake to retrieve the sword and up to date, the lake has a lot of turtles and the locals believe if you spot one, it’ll bring you good fortune.

The lake offers a lot of shaded spots, so if you don’t visit for the legend, it’s still a nice place to sit, unwind and watch the world go by.

5. One Pillar Pagoda

The One Pillar Pagoda is an iconic Buddhist temple located in the central Ba Dinh district of Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam. It is part of the Dien Huu Tu architectural complex, which translates to Extend Bless pagoda.

The most well-known part of this complex is the Lien Hoa Dai (or Lotus Station). This structure is unique in that it is built on a single pillar.

The original pagoda was built in 1049, and subsequent additions were made to perfect it in 1105. It is highly regarded, alongside the Perfume Temple, as one of Vietnam’s most iconic temples.

6. Tran Quoc Pagoda

With its history dating back to the 6^th century, Trac Quoc Pagoda is regarded as the oldest Buddhist temple in the city. The harmonious combination of mind-blowing architecture, tranquil scenery, and elegant landscape that makes this Pagoda a must-visit.

It’s set on a stunning islet within West Lake and it’s one of the best places to explore for historical, cultural as well as spiritual immersion.

7. Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum Complex

The final resting place of the most important Vietnamese leaders, Ho Chi Minh, this monument is a historic gem set at Ba Dinh Square.

Although his initial will was to be cremated, Mr Ho’s body was embalmed and placed in the same location where the declaration of independence took place in 1945.

Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum was inaugurated in 1975, and its purpose was to allow future generations to pay tribute to the greatest Chairman in the country’s history.

Other captivating sights to visit on the Square include the Ho Chi Minh Museum, the presidential palace, and one of the most sacred temples in the city, the One Pillar Pagoda.

8. Ngoc Son Temple

The Temple of the Jade Mountain (Ngoc Son), located on the Jade Islet in Hoan Kiem Lake in Hanoi, Vietnam, was constructed in 1865.

It is dedicated to Confucian and Taoist philosophers, as well as the national hero Tran Hung Dao. The Huc Bridge leads to the temple.

9. Railway Cafe

Great place to have coffee and watch the train pass by. Please note that you can no longer walk along the side of the railway as it has been banned since a tourist was hit by a train while taking photos.

To access the railway, just walk at the back of the railway and go to one of the coffee shops.

10. Temple of Literature

The Temple of Literature is a temple in Hanoi built in 1070 to honour Confucius. It is also known as The First National University of Vietnam. The temple is located in Van Mieu, an ancient park with several well-preserved trees.

A traditional Vietnamese garden surrounds the temple grounds, with a pond with lotus flowers. Visitors can explore the temple complex, which includes several courtyards and pavilions. Inside the main hall are stone tablets that honour the Achievers of Literature Exam. Furthermore, visitors can explore the grounds to learn more about Vietnamese culture and history

11. Imperial Citadel of Thang Long

One of the oldest surviving structures in Vietnam, this UNESCO World Heritage Site, is one of the most intriguing places to visit and one of the best things to do in Hanoi, especially for history buffs.

Established in the 7^th century the Imperial Citadel of Thang Long served as an economic, cultural, and political centre of the Ly-Tran-Le- Nguyen dynasties around the 13^th century.

Although it has been destroyed and rebuilt many times throughout the years, this citadel still holds lots of history and cultural traces. Some of the must-see attractions within the citadel include the Hanoi Flag pole, Doan Mon which is the main gate to the Citadel, and the Kinh Thien Palace among others

12. Vietnamese Women’s Museum

Established and run by the Women’s Union of Vietnam, this museum offers a heartwarming tribute to the local women and the role they play in society.

The museum houses photographs and over 25,000 artefacts detailing the women’s contribution to shaping the culture and heritage of the country.

Other Tours In Hanoi

1. Street Food Tour:

For food lovers, a street food tour is a must-do while in Hanoi. Stroll through the Old Quarter and stop at vendors selling everything from pho and banh mi to Bun Cha and egg coffee. Not only will you get to sample some delicious food, but you’ll also get a chance to watch as it’s being prepared.

Your guide will take you to the best spots in town and tell you about each dish’s history. This is a great way to see another side of Hanoi and experience the city like a local. Don’t forget to bring your appetite!

2. Private Tour to Duong Lam Ancient Village:

A private tour of Duong Lam Ancient Village is the perfect way to explore this unique destination. This village is the oldest surviving example of traditional Northern Vietnamese rural architecture.

Here you can wander through narrow alleyways and admire centuries-old homes built from mud and brick. You will also visit temples, pagodas, and local craft workshops. This is a great way to understand the area’s history and culture.

3. Agriculture Tour

For those looking for more hands-on experience, an agriculture tour is a great way to get up close and personal with the land. On this tour, you will visit a local farm or garden and learn how to plant rice or vegetables.

You can also participate in harvesting, cooking, and other activities that will give you an insight into the everyday lives of Vietnamese farmers. An agriculture tour is a great way to gain a deeper understanding and appreciation for rural life in Vietnam.

4. Cooking Class:

A cooking class is a perfect way to learn about Vietnamese cuisine and get to grips with local ingredients and flavours. In a class, you will have an opportunity to make traditional dishes such as pho, spring rolls, or banh mi.

The knowledgeable instructor will explain the history of each dish and show you how to prepare it step-by-step. Ultimately, you will enjoy the delicious food you have cooked and take home a new set of culinary skills.

5. Water Puppet Show:

No trip to Hanoi is complete without attending a traditional water puppet show. This ancient form of theatre dates back hundreds of years and tells stories from Vietnamese folklore using wooden puppets manipulated in water by skilled performers.

During the show, musicians play traditional instruments while colourful puppets are submerged in the pool to perform a variety of scenes. Whether you’re a fan of theatre or not, this is an experience that you won’t want to miss.

Motorbike Tour in Hanoi

Motorcycles are the most ubiquitous type of automobile in Vietnam. Certain areas of Vietnam can’t be accessed by car and/or is difficult to park. Therefore a motorbike tour is a must to explore such places and it also saves time beating the traffic.

On this tour, you will seat with your tour guide on a motorcycle and explore Hanoi. They usually provide helmets, and an English-speaking guide inclusive of drinks and food.

During my tour, we explored the following places on a motorbike tour:

• Long Bien Bridge – One of Hanoi’s legacies built over 3 centuries
• Thang Long – Hanoi Ceramic Road (world record)
• The West Lake – (Surrounded by temple/pagoda)
• Two Giant Dragon – Made of blue ceramic glaze
• Ho Chi Minh Complex and Ba Dinh Square
• Parliament House and the Presidential Palace
• B52 Lake – Location of American B52 shot down in 1972
• The national flag tower
• Ministry of foreign affair building – traditional French design
• Phung Hung Mosaic street – the most attractive travel art street
• The cathedral of Hanoi – beautiful Church
• Statue of King Ly Thai To – the great king long Thang Long (Hanoi)
• The French Opera House

Review: Mr Tee was my motorbike tour guide and he has so much knowledge about Vietnam. Whenever we visit a place of interest, he explained it to me really well. Being a rider myself, I find he is very experienced rider and knowledgeable. I would highly recommend him and you can contact him directly. Do mention that you got his contact from Rider Chris so he will know you’re a genuine customer.

Outskirts Of Hanoi Tours

1) Ha Long bay

Ha Long Bay is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Vietnam. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Ha Long Bay is renowned for its emerald waters, limestone karsts, and floating villages. The bay is located in the northeastern country and is known for its dramatic limestone formations.

There are over 1,600 islands and islets in Ha Long Bay, and many of them are uninhabited. There are many ways to explore Ha Long Bay, from taking a traditional junk boat tour to kayaking or swimming in the bay.

Visitors can also hike to the top of one of the karsts for breathtaking landscape views. In addition, Ha Long Bay is home to several caves and grottoes, which can be explored by kayak or on foot.

2) Ha Long Bay Cruise

Take a day trip or overnight cruise to Halong Bay to experience the breathtaking scenery of this World Heritage-listed site. On board, you can explore secluded coves and towering limestone cliffs by kayak or boat. A knowledgeable guide will tell you about the area’s rich history and highlight interesting rock formations. You can also enjoy some snorkelling or swimming in crystal-clear waters; whether on a day trip or an overnight stay, a Halong Bay cruise is an unforgettable experience.

3) Lan Ha Bay

Perched on the northeastern coast of Vietnam, and south of the beautiful Ha Long Bay, Lan Ha Bay is one of the most stunning bays in the country and an unforgettable island boasting over 300 karst islets.

It’s a lesser trodden path compared to Ha Long Bay which makes it a perfect choice if you’re looking to ditch the crowds and enjoy some beach time in a secluded location.

With hundreds of unspoiled white sandy shorelines, surrounded by towering dramatic limestone karts Lan Ha Bay is the ideal destination for beach bums and water sports enthusiasts who enjoy privacy.

4) Thien Cung and Dau Go caves (Ha Long)

Sprawling natural grotto with intricate stalactite & stalagmite formations & colourful lighting. Both Thien Cung and Dau Go caves are located next to each other in Ha Long.

4) Ninh Binh (Hoa Lu – Tam Coc – Hang Mua Tours)

Just two hours from Hanoi is Ninh Binh, a region of Vietnam known for its breathtaking landscapes and stunning mountain views. There are plenty of things to do in Ninh Binh, from exploring the ancient temples and pagodas to taking boat tours through Tam Coc Cave. Visitors can also participate in biking, kayaking, and rock climbing activities. One of the best ways to explore the area is by taking a boat ride through the Trang An Scenic Landscape Complex, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

You can also hike up to the top of Hang Mua for panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. And be sure to try some of the local specialities like goat meat and sticky rice pudding. Ninh Binh is a great place for adventure seekers, nature lovers, and anyone looking to escape the hustle and bustle of Hanoi. If you’re looking for breathtaking landscapes and an escape from the hustle and bustle of the city, then a day trip to Ninh Binh is a must.

4) Sapa

Located in the northwest of Vietnam, Sapa is home to a unique landscape of rolling hills, terraced paddies, and lush forests. The region is also home to several ethnic minority groups, traditionally dressed in bright colours and sold handmade goods in the town’s markets. Terraced rice fields, towering mountains, and lush forests surround this small town in the northwestern region of Vietnam. You can explore the area on foot by visiting Ta Van Village, taking in the stunning scenery as you hike through the rice paddies or trek to the top of Fansipan mountain.

You can also take a cable car up to one of the platforms for panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. In addition to its natural beauty, Sapa is also home to a number of interesting museums and temples.

Review: For the Sapa Trekking guide, I would highly recommend Ms Lo Bau (local Sapa) as she is knowledgeable about paddy fields, surrounding villages etc. We used her service and she took us for a 10KM walk+trekking from Sapa Town which is a lifetime experience to be not missed while you’re in Sapa.

There are also several hotels and guesthouses in Sapa and a few restaurants serving traditional Vietnamese cuisine. The best time to visit is between August-September as you can see the perfect green paddy field.

To get into Sapa from Hanoi, you can take an overnight sleeper bus and the journey would take about 6 hours. We took Kadham which is a VIP cabin bus and it cost us about USD 20/pax. The bus will stop at the Kadham bus stop station in Sapa, which is in Sapa city itself.

Ha Giang Loop motorbike tour:

The Ha Giang Loop is hands down one of the best ways to explore Vietnam’s landscape and a must-do for adventurous holidaymakers.

Found in the northmost part of the country close to the China-Vietnam border, Ha Giang is a loop that takes you through breathtaking scenery ranging from beautiful rice paddies, majestic limestone mountains, sleepy hamlets, and rivers.

This circular route rewards you with a thrilling, authentic, and off-the-beaten-path adventure through the country’s most remote areas.

Ha Giang Loop is roughly 217 miles and it will take you anywhere between 3 and 5 days to complete.

Tips For Making The Most Of Your Trip

1. Research:

Before embarking on your journey, be sure to do some research. Find out what to expect regarding climate and transportation options, buy travel insurance, and check for any local advisories or warnings.

2. Stay Open-minded:

Try to stay open-minded and go with the flow. Embrace any unexpected detours or changes in plans that you may encounter, and make sure to take time to explore and enjoy the moment.

3. Learn The Language:

Learning some basic Vietnamese phrases before your trip is a great way to help you get around and gain insight into local culture. It will also be useful for making friends along the way!

4. Connect With Locals:

Interacting with locals is one of the best ways to understand a place truly. Don’t be afraid to ask questions, learn about customs and traditions, and even invite someone for a meal – it can enrich your experience.

5. Be Respectful:

Be respectful of local customs and communities while travelling, and don’t forget to leave a place better than you found it! Show respect for the environment, people, and culture that you encounter.

6. Make sure You have Enough Time:

Make sure to leave enough time for your trip. Don’t try to cram too many activities into a short period of time, and remember to take breaks to rest and recharge.

General Advice For Travellers In Hanoi

1. How to crossroads

• Be relaxed and self-confident
• Look two ways and/or make eye contact with the drivers/riders
• Never step back

2. How to get away from pushy vendors

• Do not touch anything if you are not interested to buy
• Do not talk to them or smile
• keep walking away

3. How to bargain in the markets/streets

• Check the item(s) carefully before buying
• Ask for the rate
• Negotiate 20-30% lesser than the rate given

4. How to get away from the street risks

• Do not walk alone after midnight
• Do not bring your passport. Just leave them at the hotel
• Do not wear valuable jewellery
• Keep your bags/cameras/belongings close to you
• Put your bags/backpacks in front of you if you’re in a crowded place.
• Beware of a pick-pocket, especially at the night market
• Do not use your phone when you’re in the street to avoid being snatched.

5. Beware of scam agents on the street

If you don’t want to get scammed, get your tours booked at the hotel you stay in. Alternatively, get in touch with a reliable travel agent which I recommend in the post below.

Where To Stay In Hanoi?

If this is your first time in Hanoi, I would recommend staying in Old Quarters. Another great place would be at the west lake.

How To Book Tours & Hotels In Advance?

I don’t usually recommend agents on my website but I will make an exception this time.

While I was in Hanoi, I took Vivian’s services. She speaks good English, is organized and can help you with just anything. She can handle all the tours mentioned in this article and also arrange accommodation, bus to Sapa etc.

If needed and if you have any questions, just get in touch with her and mention that you got her contact from Rider Chris. While I don’t get a penny from this but I did promise I would recommend her service because she went extra mile for us.

Conclusion

Travelling in Vietnam is a great way to experience the culture and explore some amazing places. Whether you’re looking for adventure or relaxation, there’s something for everyone.

With its diverse landscapes and rich history, it’s no wonder that this country has become such a popular destination for visitors. The above best things to do in Northern Vietnam and beyond will help you make the most of your trip and have an unforgettable experience.