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Things to do in Hanoi

In Vietnam’s cultural capital you'll try shrimp pancakes, see the Ho Chi Minh mausoleum, and cruise Ha Long Bay.

Our most recommended things to do in Hanoi

From Hanoi: Tam Coc, Hoa Lu & Mua Caves Full-Day Trip

1. From Hanoi: Tam Coc, Hoa Lu & Mua Caves Full-Day Trip

Travel by air-conditioned bus from Hanoi to Tam Coc and ride a Sampan boat to impressive caves. Experience local life as you cycle through picturesque villages, explore ancient temples, and enjoy a Vietnamese lunch. Start your tour early with pickup at your hotel in Ha Noi Old Quarter. Hop into the luxury van to visit Hoa Lu, an ancient capital of Vietnam. Visit Dinh king Temple and Le king Temple from the 10th century, and hear about the heroic histories of the two Kings during the Chinese Wars. At midday, sit down for lunch with Vietnamese cuisine at a local restaurant. Continue to Tam Coc and take the sampan go (traditional river boat) along the Ngo Dong river to visit Tam Coc's three caves. Head back to Tam Coc wharf, take your bicycle, and cycle around traditional villages and Tam Coc town. Visit Mua cave, which attracts visitors with its many interesting stories. Climb 500 stone steps to see all the way to Tam Coc, and enjoy a stunning panoramic view of the countryside and Ngo Dong river. In the evening, return Ha Noi.

From Hanoi: 2-Day & 1 Night Halong Bay Tour

2. From Hanoi: 2-Day & 1 Night Halong Bay Tour

Experience the stunning landscapes of Ha Long Bay aboard a 4-star junk boat with an onboard cabin on a 2-day 1-night cruise from Hanoi. Learn how to make spring rolls and fish for squid at night. Visit some of the limestone karst islands and marvel at the rock formations of the caves.  Day 1: Hanoi – Halong – Overnight on-board  From 8 to 845 AM, get picked up from your hotel and depart to Ha Long Bay. The bus journey will take around 2.5 hours. Stop en route around 30 minutes at a rest stop. Embark aboard at Tuan Chau International Marina and get a refreshing welcome drink as you check into your cabin. Enjoy an onboard cabin with an ensuite bathroom, air conditioning, big windows, and a sea-facing balcony so that you can view Ha Long Bay even from your bedroom. Get access to a hair dryer, wooden hanger, slippers, and complimentary water bottles. Then, cruise amongst the limestone rocks of Ha Long Bay and feast on fresh local seafood. Sail to islets such as "Dog Head" and "Swan" and pass the floating village of Ba Hang. Next, explore Luon Cave by a bamboo boat and get some time to swim at Ti Top Island. Watch the sunset from the sun deck of the boat before dropping anchor for the night. Go on a night squid fishing adventure after dinner, or just relax in the bar. Day 2: Halong - Hanoi Wake to stunning views of Ha Long Bay and take a guided tour of the stalactites and stalagmites of Surprise Cave. Pass the islands of "Fighting Cock," "Incense Burner" and "Stone Dogs" on the way back to the harbor. Watch a demonstration on how to make spring rolls and enjoy lunch before your arrival. Board the bus for the return journey to Hanoi, with an estimated hotel drop-off at around 3:30 PM.

Hanoi: Halong Bay 2-Day Tour with Lodging and Luxury Cruise

3. Hanoi: Halong Bay 2-Day Tour with Lodging and Luxury Cruise

Experience Ha Long - Lan Ha Bay on a 2-day cruise, with a sea view or balcony room, cooking demonstrations, and plenty of entertainment onboard. Swim and kayak in the bay's emerald waters and explore its limestone islands and quaint villages. Day 1: Hanoi Pickup and Ha Long Bay The first day of your cruise begins with a hotel pickup from the Old Quarter of Hanoi. Meet with fellow cruise guests and get to know travelers from all around the world. On your way to Ha Long Bay stop at a humanity center to check out local specialties and products. Arrive at your cruise boat and receive a warm welcome from your captain. Afterward, sit for lunch and savor a delicious meal as the cruise passes through thousands of islands and islets of different shapes. Stop near the floating villages and have the opportunity to kayak in the middle of the bay to admire its fascinating rock formations a bit closer. Return to the boat for the evening and watch a cooking demonstration of Vietnamese spring rolls. Then delight in an idyllic dinner on board. Spend the rest of the night with free time to participate in activities such as squid fishing, karaoke, or star-gazing on the deck. Day 2: Ha Long Bay and Hanoi Drop-off Have an early start to your day with morning exercises and photos. Sip your coffee or tea as you have breakfast. Relax and take in the breathtaking beauty of the rocky islands rising from the crystal-clear water of the bay. Check out of your cabin and then spend the rest of the morning exploring Ha Long Cave. The UNESCO World Heritage Site is home to impressive rock formations, incredibly tall ceilings, and an interesting legend. From Cave, head back to the cruise boat's restaurant and eat lunch. Disembark for your transfer back to Hanoi.

From Hanoi: Guided Day Trip to Ha Long Bay and Luon Cave

4. From Hanoi: Guided Day Trip to Ha Long Bay and Luon Cave

8:10-8:50 AM Shuttle bus & tour guide will pick you up from Hanoi Old Quarter and transfer to Halong Bay by highway only 2,5 hours Enjoy a full-day trip to Ha Long Bay and get immersed in the beauty of the stone mountains, caves, sandy beach, and more. Board a vehicle from the hotel and enjoy a scenic drive through the green fields. Arrive at the Tuan Chau Habour and cruise through the turquoise waters and amazing rock formations. Soak in the beauty of the surroundings while enjoying a traditional Vietnamese lunch on board. Next, you will continue to explore the beautiful Sung Sot cave, known as the surprising cave. Admire the shimmering stalactites embodying countless strange and unique shapes. Take a kayak or bamboo boat to spend some time in the water and discover the stunning Luon Cave. Feel the warmth of the sunshine as you pass by Titop island. Take a refreshing dip in the water or trek to the Titop peak for photos with a panoramic view of the bay. Relax for a while before going back to the boat to enjoy a sunset party with red wine, french fries, cakes, and fruits. After reaching Ha Long harbor, the driver will transfer you back to Hanoi. 21:00 The end trip and drop off at Hanoi Old Quarter

Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre Skip-the-Line Entry Ticket

5. Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre Skip-the-Line Entry Ticket

Book tickets in advance for the best seats for the show at your preferred timing. Skip the lines to the Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre and experience one of Vietnam's most distinctive art forms live on stage.  See a unique art form that originates over 1,000 years ago in the Red River Delta. In the past, water puppetry showed the daily life of villagers such as farming, fishing and romance. Now, watch plays about ancient Vietnamese legends, myths and history. The world-famous Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre in Hanoi has its roots in an art form that dates back to the 11th century. The tradition of water puppet theater stems from a time when rice paddy fields were flooded and villagers would create entertainment by standing in the waist-deep water with the puppets performing over the water. Using large rods to support the puppets it appeared as if they were moving across the water with the puppeteers hidden behind a screen.

Hanoi: Islands, Caves, Kayak & Halong Dragonfly Boat Cruise

6. Hanoi: Islands, Caves, Kayak & Halong Dragonfly Boat Cruise

Discover the beauty of Ha Long Bay on a cruise and a guided kayaking tour. Enjoy a delicious seafood lunch on a voyage to the Thien Cung cave. Get closer to the islands on a leisurely kayaking tour.  After you’re picked up at hotels located in the Old Quarter of Hanoi, head out on the drive to Ha Long Bay, making a short stop halfway to take a short break or restroom. Continue the scenic drive to Halong, reaching Tuan Chau Island pier around midday and board the traditional cruise. Enjoy a fresh seafood lunch onboard and take in the tranquil beauty and breathtaking scenery from the deck. Admire tiny limestone islands with rock arches, sheer cliffs, white sand beaches, peaceful coves, and fanciful names, such as Incense Burner and Fighting Cock (the symbol of Ha Long Bay). Then, head on to Thien Cung (Heavenly Palace Grotto). Explore its vast chambers adorned with stalactites and stalagmites of all kinds. Finally, enjoy 45 minutes of kayaking or paddling a bamboo boat around the islands and water tunnels at the World Natural Area recognized by UNESCO. Return to the Tuan Chau pier and board the bus that will take you back to Hanoi. Arrive in Hanoi in the evening. Lunch menu:• Tomato/ cucumber salad• Fried potato• Steam shrimp• Fried eggs roll• Fried squid • Deep-fried seafood spring rolls• Fried chicken with mushroom• Steamed fish with tomato sauce• Fried vegetables (when in season)• Steamed rice• Fresh fruit• Afternoon fresh fruit and tea

Hanoi: Water Puppet Show Tickets

7. Hanoi: Water Puppet Show Tickets

Skip the lines at the Water Puppet Theater with this service that includes show tickets. Choose from several Water Puppet Show times. Experience one of Vietnam's most memorable and traditional art forms during a live 50-minute performance. The art of water puppetry has a distinct Vietnamese identity. It came into existence more than a thousand years ago in the Red River Delta. In its earliest days, water puppetry portrayed the daily life of villagers – in farming and fishing activities, children’s play and in romance. Today the performance also brings in ancient legends and myths.

From Hanoi: Ninh Binh, Trang An, Bai Dinh, and Mua Cave Trip

8. From Hanoi: Ninh Binh, Trang An, Bai Dinh, and Mua Cave Trip

Uncover the cultural and natural heritage of the Ninh Binh province on a guided day trip from Hanoi. Pay a visit to the Bai Dinh Temple Complex, float through the tranquil rivers of Trang An, and climb to the top of Mua Caves for striking panoramic views of rocky hills. Get picked up from your hotel in Hanoi and depart toward Ninh Binh. Stop at Bai Dinh, the biggest complex of Buddhist temples in Vietnam, to gaze at the imposing pagoda. See 500 Arhat Statues made out of blue stones, a 36-ton bronze bell, and a 100-ton Buddha statue, rising up to 10 meters. Take a lunch break in a local restaurant, with a Vietnamese buffet of goat meat, fish, chicken, and fried rice, as well as vegetarian food options. Continue to the Trang An Landscape Complex, a UNESCO World Heritage Site featured in the 2017 movie Kong: Skull Island. Hop on a wooden boat to navigate through its quiet rivers, discover mysterious caves, and admire towering limestone karsts covered with tropical plants. Finally, climb up 500 steps to the viewpoint of Mua Caves to marvel at panoramic views of Tam Coc before returning to Hanoi.

V’Spirit Cruise Halong Bay 3 Days 2 Nights Tour from Hanoi

9. V’Spirit Cruise Halong Bay 3 Days 2 Nights Tour from Hanoi

Day 1: 08:15 AM – 08:45 AM Pick up at your hotel in Hanoi the Old Quarter 11:45 AM – 12:00 PMWelcome to V’Spirit Cruises lounge at Tuan Chau International Harbor and complete check-in procedures. 12:00 PM Transfer to V’Spirit Cruises by a tender boat. 12:30 PMEmbark V’Spirit Cruises and enjoy a welcome drink while listening to cruise briefing and safety introductions. 1:00 PM Have lunch at The Dawn Restaurant while cruising from Ha Long Bay to Lan Ha Bay. 2:45 PM Explore the Tra Bau area by kayaking, get closer to the rocky islands and admire the stunning nature of the bay. You have chance to kayak pass by a hidden temple of the fishing villagers if weather permits. 4:15 PM It’s time for swimming and water activities, immersed in the green water of the Bay with floats. 5:00 PMJoin a cooking demonstration to get to know Vietnamese cuisine and create your own special flavors. 5:30 PM – 6:30 PM Enjoy a Sunset party with some complimentary while waiting for twilight over limestone islands. Take the chance of Happy Hour to have your favorite drinks. 7:00 PMDinner at the restaurant. Fine dining setting with degustation expedience will create your memorable moments. 9:00 PMEnjoy evening views of the bay on the top deck, join some game show at the top deck bar to get some nice local gifts. 5:30 PM - 6:30 PMHappy hour Day 2: 06:15 AM Watch the sunrise with a Tai Chi session on the sundeck. 07:00 AM A light breakfast is served at the Dawn Restaurant. 08:00 AM – 08:30 AMTransfer to Viet Hai pier by speed boat, where we’ll take an opportunity to explore the local life of an ancient village on Cat Ba Island. 09:00 AMArrive at the pier, you’ll choose to take a ride by bicycle or electric car to Viet Hai village. The 6km-ride takes you along a beautiful lagoon and a lovely cave to the hidden village of Viet Hai. 11:30 AMRelax and enjoy your lunch in a local restaurant. 2:00 PMStart exploring the fish farms at Viet Hai pier by kayak. 3:00 PMTransfer to Ba Trai Dao, it’s time for more swimming or just lying on a small & pristine beach and watching the clouds drift by (If weather permits). 4:00 PMBack to the cruise to relax and wait for the sunset, maybe with a cocktail in hand. 5:30 PM – 6:30 PMTime to take a shower or lazy in the bathtub to refresh energy. Take the chance of HAPPY HOUR to have your favorite drinks at the top deck bar. 7:00 PMDinner at the restaurant. Fine dining setting with degustation expedience. 9:00 PM Enjoy evening views of the bay on the top deck, join some game show at the top deck bar to get some nice local gifts. Day 3: 6:30 AMStart a day with a Tai Chi session, enjoy the fresh air and watch the sunrise on the bay. 7:00 AMHave a breakfast on board. 7:30 AM - 8:45 AMExplore Bright cave on a traditional rowing bamboo boat with locals. 9:00 AMReturn to the cruise, check-out. 9:30 AMEnjoy brunch at the restaurant while cruising back to Tuan Chau port. 11:00 AMDisembark at Tuan Chau Marina. 3:00 PMDrop off at your hotel in Hanoi the Old Quarter. CABIN CHECK-OUT: 09:00 AM

From Hanoi: Ha Long - Bai Tu Long Bay 2-Day 1-Night Cruise

10. From Hanoi: Ha Long - Bai Tu Long Bay 2-Day 1-Night Cruise

Discover the beauty of the Ha Long Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and Bai Tu Long Bay, known as the “Bay of Descending Dragons” on an overnight cruise. Soak up the scenery and embrace the culture on this cruise that includes a visit to Thien Canh Son Cave, the biggest cave in Bai Tu Long Bay. Day 1: Hanoi - Ha Long Bay - Bai Tu Long Bay 8 - 8:30 AM: Enjoy pickup by shuttle bus from your hotel in the Hanoi Old Quarter. 12:30 PM: Arrive at SunWorld Port. Take some time to relax and enjoy a cup of tea or coffee. Wait for the captain to finish registration and then transfer to the boat. 12:45 PM: Relax with a welcome drink and listen to a short briefing about boat safety and activities before checking into your cabin. 1:30 PM: Enjoy a Vietnamese set menu while leisurely cruising further into Bai Tu Long Bay. 3 PM: Arrive in the kayaking area of Cap La Island. Kayak through the karst and enjoy some swimming. 5:30 PM: Head back to the boat for a sunset party while your boat sails to its overnight anchorage point. 7 PM: Enjoy a set dinner on board. 8:30 PM: Take some free time and challenge yourself with Vietnamese puzzle games or gather your group/family for a board game; try your luck with squid fishing or simply enjoy a cocktail and the quiet of the night on the bay. Day 2: Ha Long Bay - Bai Tu Long Bay - Hanoi 6 AM: Start your day with a Tai Chi routine on the sundeck or catch a morning view of the bay with a cup of tea or coffee. 7 AM: Breakfast is served Western style. 8 AM: Explore the hidden Thien Canh Son Cave and spend time at a white sandy beach at Hon Co Island. 9 AM: Upon return to the boat, take about 30 minutes to freshen up and finish packing. 10 AM: Attend a Vietnamese cooking demonstration and quickly learn a simple but delicious Vietnamese dish that Gordon Ramsey, a 2-star Michelin chef, used to teach – Nem Cuon. 11 AM: Enjoy a traditional Vietnamese lunch on the boat. 12 PM: Head back to the harbor and disembark at SunWorld pier. 12:30 PM: Say farewell to Halong Bay and ride back to Hanoi by shuttle bus. 3 - 3:30 PM: Arrive back in Hanoi.

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Frequently asked questions about Hanoi

What are the best day trips and excursions from Hanoi?

The best day trips and excursions from Hanoi are:

Ha Long Bay

Other Sightseeing Options in Hanoi

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What people are saying about Hanoi

Overall rating

4.5 / 5

based on 9,887 reviews

Excellent day out around the quite stunning bay. The boat. The staff and crew, activities food ans drink were all excellent - not over crowded ans genuinely luxury experience. Do not be put off by lack of reviews on Get my Guide - they have clearly been doing this a long time and you will have a great trip.

Thong, our guide, was excellent. His English is good and he was very informative. I enjoyed the tour, especially the bike ride and boat tour. I would do this again.

Really great day with beautiful temples and landscapes and, with the boat ride being the highlight.

A beautiful and relaxing tour, with good food and very comfortable accommodations.

Super nice and varied tour. We really enjoyed it on board!