Hanoi is Vietnam's capital and its most atmospheric city: a thousand-year-old center of lakes, temples, colonial boulevards and street food. Here are the best things to do in Hanoi and how to fit them into two days.
The best things to do in Hanoi
1. Hoan Kiem Lake and Ngoc Son Temple
The heart of the city. Walk the lake at sunrise, when locals exercise, then cross the red bridge to the temple on the island. The area becomes a pedestrian zone on weekend evenings.
2. The Old Quarter
A grid of narrow streets historically named for the trades once sold there. Come for street food, coffee, markets and the hum of motorbikes. Our Hanoi food tour shows how to eat your way through it.
3. Temple of Literature
Vietnam's first national university, founded in the 11th century, with courtyards, gates and stone stelae. A calm break from the Old Quarter.
4. Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and the Presidential Palace area
Viewing is generally in the morning on Tuesday to Thursday and on weekends, and the mausoleum is closed on Monday and Friday. Summer hours are reported as about 7:30 to 10:30, with weekends and holidays extending to about 11:00. Dress modestly, and expect no photography inside. The mausoleum has an annual maintenance closure, so check the dates before you go.
5. Hoa Lo Prison and the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology
Two good museums for history and culture. The Ethnology Museum is excellent for context before you visit northern minority regions.
6. A water puppet show
A traditional Vietnamese art form performed in a pool of water. Book a reserved seat in the high season.
7. West Lake and Long Bien Bridge
West Lake is a quieter side of the city, with temples and cafés. Long Bien Bridge is a historic steel bridge over the Red River, best at dawn.
A 2-day Hanoi plan
- Day 1: Hoan Kiem Lake at sunrise, Old Quarter, Temple of Literature, water puppets in the evening.
- Day 2: mausoleum area in the morning (check the closure dates), museums in the afternoon, a food tour.
Free things to do in Hanoi
Walking Hoan Kiem Lake, wandering the Old Quarter, the Long Bien Bridge at dawn and the weekend walking streets cost nothing.
Beyond Hanoi
Add day trips: Ninh Binh, the Ha Long Bay area (see our Ha Long Bay cruise guide) or the northern mountains (Sapa trekking, Ha Giang loop).
Where to stay and how to plan
Try Sofitel Legend Metropole or Capella Hanoi, read our Hanoi destination page, the Vietnam itinerary guide, and browse our best of northern Vietnam tour.
Things to do in Hanoi: FAQ
How many days do you need in Hanoi?
Two days for the highlights; three if you want day trips.
What is Hanoi known for?
Its Old Quarter, street food, lakes and temples.
Is the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum open every day?
No: it is closed on Monday and Friday and has an annual closure.
What can I do in Hanoi for free?
Walk Hoan Kiem Lake, the Old Quarter and Long Bien Bridge.
When is the best time to visit?
See our best time to visit Vietnam guide; autumn and spring are pleasant.
