The Best Things to do in Hanoi, Vietnam

Take a full-day city tour to see Hanoi’s compact Old Quarter and a number of cultural and historical buildings. This is an excellent introduction to the capital, complete with a fun cyclo ride. Begin the tour at the impressive Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum (closed on Monday, Friday and from June to Auguest for annual renovation), where you’ll visit the revered leader’s simple stilt home and the beautiful One Pillar Pagoda. Your guide will help you understand the Vietnam of today through stories of Ho Chi Minh and the Vietnam War. Then, step back in time 1,000 years with a visit to the Temple of Literature. As Vietnam’s first university, this picturesque and peaceful collection of buildings has borne witness to some of the country’s greatest minds. Moving closer to the maze of alleys that is the Old Quarter you will first visit Hoan Kiem Lake. This pretty, man-made lake is a hive of activity at all times of day when locals and tourists alike seek out the calming water for a stroll, a little exercise, and a catch-up with friends. Your tour includes a stop at Ngoc Son Temple, a site that pays homage to Saint Van Xuong and General Trang Hung Dao. Later in the afternoon, hop on a cyclo for a 1-hour ride through the chaotic streets of the Old Quarter and learn about the trades that gave the alleys their names. Note: If your visit is on Monday or Friday, the Ho Chi Minh complex will be replaced by Hoa Lo Museum or Thang Long Imperial Citadel

Experience the real Hanoi with our Hanoi Motorbike Adventure Tour. Navigate through bustling backstreets, vibrant markets, and serene lakes, immersing yourself in the city's rich history and culture. Explore ancient temples, colonial architecture, and modern districts, while savoring Hanoi's best street food and beverages. Perfect for those seeking an authentic adventure, this tour offers a unique glimpse into the city's charm and character.

Following breakfast, leave Hanoi at 07:30 for the 2.5 hours drive to Halong City by shuttle bus. Upon arrival, board a comfortable cruise boat and set sail through the bay’s iconic seascape. As you glide through the waters, take in the breathtaking views of the towering limestone islands and islets that rise dramatically from the ocean. The boat will stop at several of these islands, allowing you to explore caves, grottoes, and secluded beaches. You can also take part in various activities such as kayaking, swimming (depending on the boat’s set itinerary), or simply relaxing on the deck and enjoying the serene surroundings. Afterward, enjoy a delicious seafood lunch on board, featuring fresh, local ingredients. The boat will continue its journey through the bay, giving you more opportunities to take in the stunning scenery. Towards the end of the afternoon return to the mainland and say farewell to the boat’s crew before the return to Hanoi by shuttle bus. Arrive at the hotel in the evening. End tour.

This tour will take you from the vast lakes and chalky karsts of Ba Be National Park to the wild and rugged landscapes of Cao Bang to visit the most spectacular Ban Gioc waterfall in Vietnam. You will be travelling through the remote areas in the north of Vietnam, brushing along the Chinese border and staying with local families to find out about the unique cultures and customs of Vietnam.

From 6:30 - 7:00 AM, you will commence from your hotel with private car to Sapa. Arriving Sapa at around noon time. Leaving the luggage at reception and having lunch on your own before meeting up with our guide in Sapa at the hotel lobby for the afternoon tour at 1pm. This gentle morning walk leads you through scenic rice paddies, offering insights into the entire process of rice production—from transplanting seedlings to serving steamed rice. Along the way, you’ll catch a glimpse of the daily lives of the Black H’mong and Giay minority communities. A short drive south takes you to Muong Hoa Valley, home to the largest rice terraces in Sapa. Here, you’ll begin your descent into the valley, guided by an expert who will explain the rice-growing process. If you visit between May and October, you’ll witness locals planting or harvesting rice, a key part of their daily lives. The walk starts in Lao Chai village, home to the Black H’mong, and continues to Ta Van village, where the Giay minority people reside—the only place in Sapa where you can meet them. In Ta Van, you’ll also have the chance to visit a local school. After your visit, you’ll return to Sapa for overnight. Grade: Easy Approx: 16km driving/ 45 minutes; 6.2 km walking/2 hours.

Ha Giang is one of the highest towns of Vietnam and has a quintessential view of mountainous Vietnam and China, surrounded by sharp hills. The district lies at the height of 1,100m, of which there is Lung Cu peak at the height 1600m to 1800m compared to sea level. This is an extreme north, considered to be the rooftops of Vietnam. Travelers have to overcome the peak of Ma Pi Leng. On beautiful days, its pass seems to collect all the beauty of nature, with the windy hill sides, the eyes spread to horizon. Nho Que river as a small thread in the beautiful valley.

Travel out of Hanoi to experience life in rural Vietnam. Mai Chau is an area of natural beauty and unique culture that provides a fascinating insight into life in Vietnam’s remote mountains. Early in the morning, meet your guide and driver at your hotel in Hanoi. You will travel together 3.5 hours through agricultural land and over epic mountain passes to the Mai Chau Valley. You’ll head straight into the home of a local Thai family for a traditional feast of local specialities. After lunch, your guide will show you around their village on foot, and you’ll visit some of the local weavers to watch them crafting their signature textiles. Purchasing their textiles ensures you’ll have an authentic souvenir. In the evening, you’ll likely have the opportunity to witness a performance by community members, involving song, dance, theatricals, and a few stunts!

This Ninh Binh day trip takes in the best of the Trang An area. You will visit the magnificent Bai Dinh Pagoda, eat local specialities in a family-run restaurant, and take a boat ride through limestone mountains and vibrant rice paddies.

Escape the hustle and bustle of Hanoi and journey into the peaceful countryside of Ninh Binh. Discover the historical significance of Hoa Lu, Vietnam’s ancient capital in the 10th century, and experience the stunning natural beauty of Thung Nang, often referred to as “Sun Valley,” by rowing boat through caves, limestone karsts, and tranquil waterways. 08:00 – Depart from Hanoi Your guide and driver will pick you up from your hotel and head south to Ninh Binh (approx. 2 hours’ drive), passing through scenic landscapes of rice fields and rural villages. 10:00 – Explore Hoa Lu Ancient Capital Arrive at Hoa Lu, the former capital of Vietnam during the Dinh and Le dynasties. Visit the remaining temples dedicated to King Dinh Tien Hoang and King Le Dai Hanh. Learn about the rich history and importance of this political center in the 10th century while surrounded by stunning mountain backdrops. 11:30 – Short countryside walk Enjoy a peaceful walk through the nearby villages and rice fields for a closer look at local life. 12:30 – Lunch at a local restaurant Savor a delicious Vietnamese lunch with local specialties such as goat meat, crispy rice (com cháy), and seasonal vegetables. 14:00 – Thung Nang Boat Trip (Sun Valley) Head to Thung Nang, a less-touristy and serene alternative to Tam Coc or Trang An. Embark on a relaxing sampan boat ride, rowed by a local through limestone mountains, lush vegetation, and peaceful waterways. Float through caves and admire the untouched natural beauty and tranquil atmosphere. 16:00 – Return to Hanoi Begin the drive back to Hanoi, with a short break along the way. 18:30 – Arrive back in Hanoi

This biking tour takes you throough 18.6 miles (30 km) of pristine Vietnamese countryside. Along the way, you’ll meet locals and learn about rural culture in northern Vietnam. You’ll also see demonstrations on traditional handicrafts, and get to know the people behind these simple but beautiful pieces of local art.