Looking for what to do in Hanoi? With so many great sights, it is hard to decide what to inevitably leave off that list. You can’t see absolutely everything, right? Especially if you have numbered days in Vietnam’s old capital of Hanoi.
This list of 6 things, ranging from what to do and see, as well as where to eat and drink are what I think are must see Hanoi attractions.
1. Experience Hanoi’s unique traditional performance of “Water Puppetry”
Upon visiting Vietnam I heard about these water puppet shows and how everyone should see them. Honestly, I was not overly excited to go out of my way to see them. I’m not really one for theatre or musicals, but I’m so glad I eventually pushed out of my comfort zone and said yes to checking one out! Here’s why you should do the same!
Located in a large theatre with a “pool” as the stage, the live orchestra located right to the side of the water begin playing enticing music. From historical stories to simple scenes of fisherman chasing elusive fish around, I was captivated during all 13 short acts that were performed. I even laughed out loud more than once.
These handcrafted fig wood puppets, no taller than my knees, are maneuvered by sticks under the surface of a small pond hiding the puppeteers being the backdrop. The only time you see these talented puppeteers is when they bow at the end of their performance – still waist deep in the pond wearing their gaiters. Accompanied by the beautiful and compelling music being played the entire time, I absolutely loved this experience.
These “water puppet” performances are fairly common in most touristic places around Vietnam, so why experience it in Hanoi? Well, Hanoi is the birthplace of this traditional form of entertainment. While I’m sure other shows in Vietnam are likely on par, it adds an extra something special to see it where it originated.
To see these quirky performances, I suggest booking as far in advance as possible. With allocated seating in a fairly small hall, seats fill up fast. The cost is 100,000VND ($5.80 AUD) and the play goes for around one hour.
All narration is in Vietnamese, despite this, I still laughed and followed along with the stories being told easily enough.
Personally, I went in with low expectations, but Hanoi’s water puppets quickly became one of the most memorable things to do in Hanoi!
2. Step back into a troubled past at Hao Lo Prison – AKA “Hanoi Hilton”
This infamous prison is widely known for its role holding American Prisoner of War pilots during the Vietnam War from 1955 to 1975. However, history dates back even further at Hao Lo Prison. Originally built by the French in 1896it was named Maison Centrale (Central House) – still remains written on the building today. Hao Lo Prison also housed Vietnamese communist political prisoners and those involved in the revolution up until 1954.
Be prepared for some information and thoughts that may be difficult to process. After all, prisoners of war were rarely treated as humane as every human deserves. It can be difficult to stomach but I think it is important to read the information and see the relics on display it is an insight into a dark period of history.
Learning about the resilience of the Vietnamese prisoners of war was a highlight. Visiting the long-standing “almond tree” where messages were passed and stored between prisoners is a piece of history that I will never forget.
I’d like to point of the information on display does come off one-sided. Pictures of healthy (and seemingly over-cheerful) American POW pilots playing sport makes me wonder how big of a grain of salt these artifacts should be viewed with.
This Hanoi attraction isn’t for everyone, but I think it is an important piece of history to be witnessed. Many places in the world keep monuments of tragic events intact so future generations learn in hopes to prevent history from repeating itself, which is why I find places such as Hoa Lo Prison invaluable.
3. Stroll around Hoan Kiem Lake, see Thap Rua Temple
Many Vietnamese cities are incredibly intimidating and busy with hoards of fast-moving vehicles and motos. Hanoi surprised me when I learnt that every weekend all roads around this beautiful attraction were closed. These now pedestrian-only streets allowed visitors and locals alike to stroll around stress-free and to play all sorts of sidewalk games I’ve never seen before.
Small and large groups would amass every few meters along the lake-side street. Some watching buskers, some watching street performers play traditional music or have mini dance competitions.
Some would even be playing hacky sack with a little metal-style, shuttlecock-looking thing that made noise each time it was touched (you could even buy them at roaming vendors around the area if they looked like that much fun!). Other games included some kind of moving bamboo-stick hopscotch, too much rhythm and coordination for me, but it was fun to watch!
Overall, if you’re visiting Hanoi on the weekend, make sure to spend some time in this park. The vibe in the evenings on the weekend is amazing. It’s a beautiful contrast to the rest of the busy, noisy city.
Hoan Kiem Lake is one of the main attractions around the lake. Even though it looks uninhabitable, turtles once called Hoan Kiem Lake home. One turtle, weighing over 200kg, is on display at the nearby Ngoc Son Temple.
Stranded at one end of the lake sits an island, home to Thap Rua or “Turtle Tower”. As the legend goes, a giant turtle granted Le Loi, a Vietnamese warrior, a sword that wielded the power to free the Vietnamese people under the rule of the Chinese in the 15th Century. Le Loi named the lake Hoan Kiem, translating to “lake of the returned sword”.
This temple was erected in that turtle’s honour. How true, I’m not sure. But visiting Thap Rua Temple at night is a beautiful illuminated sight!
While travelling throughout Hanoi, and Vietnam in general, I met quite a few couples on their honeymoon. Hanoi wasn’t any different – I think this has much to do with the relaxed vibe of the city and beautiful lights at night. If you’re planning your Vietnam Honeymoon, then this is a great resource!
4. Practice your English with local university students
Sitting on the edge of Hoan Kiem Lake is probably the easiest way to encounter locals I’ve ever experienced. They flock to tourists to simply talk and practice their English.
Being mostly university students, they have a firm grasp of the basics of the English language but want to improve. That’s where you come in. I talked to four groups of young men and women that were enthusiastic and welcoming – some very funny also!
I even re-learned what an idiom was. Thankfully, I was travelling with an English teacher at the time, so the more technical English language questions were diverted to her instantly. We were even filmed as part of a project for their English university course (if you’d rather not be filmed, they are very accommodating).
However, I need to give a word of warning. I did reading online and heard from other travellers that this can be a known tourist trap. Some “students” will invite you to join them for drinks/dinner and you’ll be stuck with a hefty bill at the end. To avoid this, I suggest simply standing your ground and not leaving the park with anyone offering anything further than a chat by the lakeside.
Staying in this neutral space made it enjoyable for everyone, and truly just a reciprocally beneficial experience.
5. Experience Hanoi’s unique “Egg Coffee”
Egg in a coffee?! Sounds weird, even kind of gross when you hear it the first time. However, strange and unique foods attract me – always have! And I would have been SO disappointed if I didn’t taste one! (I may have had about 7…)
During the French war in 1946, there was a massive shortage of milk. Instead of finding an alternative to beloved coffee, the Vietnamese found a substitute for the milk. Egg white is whisked until thick and creamy and delicious and added to the coffee. It’s definitely more of a thick dessert than a drink as one would image though. It’s filling in itself.
For directions to the famous Giang Cafe, check out the map below!
While milk isn’t hard to come by in Hanoi anymore, the tradition stuck. And I am so glad it did!
If you love coffee and can get past the whole “I don’t usually have egg in coffee….” this is definitely something you should try in Hanoi.
This must have treat in Hanoi goes by the name “Cà Phê Trứng”, this a great resource if you’re interested in learning more about Hanoi’s egg coffee!
6. Visit Cong Caphe – Cộng Cà Phê
I drink a lot of coffee. Like, A LOT. (Maybe two points in a row on coffee gave that away..) but another highlight of my entire coffee drinking career is Cong Cafe.
Although Cong Ca Phe is a chain that can be found in major cities all over Vietnam, this one in Hanoi was the first I encountered, and it’s balcony overlooking the Hoan Kiem lake adds a definite allure to it (there are however a few around the city).
It definitely doesn’t feel like a chain though. They are unique in their military fatigues. The decor is also reflective of the wartime era. If you’re after the best refreshing drink to escape humid Hanoi, try the coconut iced coffee! It’s incredible!
Where to stay in Hanoi – Best Hostel
Hostels are my favourite form of accommodation, but not many impress me enough for a recommendation. There’s usually something that ruins the “wow-factor” of staying in a budget accommodation. However, Central Backpackers Hostel is one that I highly recommend.
Cheap (as a hostel should be), comfy beds and great showers. But they go further than that. While I was waiting for my night bus to SaPa to arrive, even after 12 hours of being checked out, they offered me a shower and a place with couches to relax and refresh before jumping onboard the windiest bus ever. It was an extra that I loved about staying at Central Backpackers Hostel.
I also highly suggest taking their affiliated hostels walking tour of Hanoi. Another great way to learn about the smaller points of history laying in almost every corner of Hanoi, many that are missed by most.
Hanoi sights to see – Map
Hanoi – Information
Hanoi is the largest city in the north of Vietnam, and thus it is easy to get to and from. Many companies offer day and night buses to and from Hanoi – I caught my overnight bus from Phong Nha.
Popular destinations from Hanoi include Ha Long bay, but personally, I would choose Han La Bay over Ha Long – for why check out this post!
SaPa is one of Vietnam’s northernmost towns, and well worth if you enjoy trekking. I wouldn’t suggest staying inside the town for more than just a night or two on either side of your treks, as the real beauty and minority cultures lay outside in the rural parts.
If you are looking to visit central Vietnam, you shouldn’t miss Hoi An! And if time permits, Marble Mountains is a great day trip just outside of Da Nang – spend a weekend night here to see a firebreathing dragon!
Vietnam’s currency is the Vietnamese Dong (VND) and for $1 Australian Dollar, you get around 17,200 VND.
Hanoi – Tips
If you would like to read more general travel tips, this in-depth guide will help you miss many of the pitfalls first time and seasoned travellers encounter.
While Hao Lo Prison, I feel, is a must-see attraction while in Hanoi, I would like to restate the articles and information should be treated with a grain of salt. It seems to me it all comes off quite on sided. I would love to hear your take on it all – leave a comment below!
While this city is wonderful, scams and danger, like anywhere in the world, are present. Always obey local laws and be wary of suspicious activity. The whole “dinner and drinks” is a common scam around the Hoan Kiem Lake area.
If you would like to see the water puppets performance, make sure you book well in advance, as tickets do sell out.
Hanoi – Highlights
– Water puppets – I was very surprised at how much I enjoyed this traditional form of art.
– Hoan Kiem Lake at night is wonderfully lit up and the atmosphere with people out enjoying the evening is incredible.
– Hao Lo Prison is a difficult thing to witness, but I think an important reminder that we must stop history from repeating itself.
Have you visited Hanoi? What would be your “must-see/must-do” destinations of the beautiful city? Any comments or questions let me know below!
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