HANOI: THE HEART OF VIETNAM

Welcome to Hanoi, Vietnam’s bustling capital and cultural soul. With over a thousand years of history, this city is a fascinating blend of ancient traditions, colonial charm, and modern chaos. Yes, it’s noisy, hectic, and often wrapped in a haze of motorbike fumes—but look closer, and you’ll find a city full of character, warmth, and unforgettable experiences.

HIGHLIGHTS OF HANOI

1. Weekend Night Market

On weekends, several streets in Hanoi’s Old Quarter are closed off to traffic to make way for the vibrant Weekend Night Market. The atmosphere completely transforms—suddenly, the roads are lined with hundreds of stalls, selling just about anything you can imagine. From electronics and clothing to shoes, backpacks, and quirky souvenirs, it’s a shopper’s paradise.

If you're looking to score a deal, this is the place to be. Bargaining is part of the fun, and prices are often lower than in regular shops. The market stretches from Hang Dao Street to Dong Xuan Market, and while it can get busy, the energy is infectious—especially with live music, street performers, and the scent of sizzling street food in the air.

2. Hoan Kiem Lake

Right in the center of Hanoi lies Hoan Kiem Lake, also known as the Lake of the Restored Sword. It’s not just a scenic retreat from the city’s chaos—it’s a place steeped in legend. According to Vietnamese folklore, Emperor Lê Lợi was given a magical sword by the Golden Turtle God to defeat foreign invaders. After his victory, he returned the sword to the turtle in the lake, giving it its name and mythical status.

One of the lake’s most striking features is the Huc Bridge, a bright red wooden bridge that leads to Ngoc Son Temple, located on a small island in the lake. The bridge, whose name means “Morning Sunlight,” is a symbol of harmony and resilience. Crossing it feels like stepping into a quieter, more spiritual part of the city.

3. The Note Coffee – A Café Full of Messages

If you're wandering near Hoan Kiem Lake, make sure to stop by The Note Coffee—one of Hanoi’s most charming and quirky cafés. From the moment you step inside, you’ll notice something special: every inch of the walls, tables, and even the staircase is covered in colorful sticky notes. These are messages left by visitors from all over the world—some heartfelt, some hilarious, and others simply inspiring.

The café spans several cozy floors, each offering a unique view and vibe. Grab a drink (their egg coffee or fruit smoothies come highly recommended), find a spot, and take your time reading the notes around you. And yes—you can leave your own message too, if you manage to find a free space!

4. Hoa Lo Prison Relic – A Powerful Glimpse into Vietnam’s Past

If you're visiting Hanoi and want to understand the deeper layers of Vietnam’s history, a stop at the Hoa Lo Prison Museum is essential. Originally built by the French in the late 19th century to imprison Vietnamese revolutionaries, the site later became infamous during the Vietnam War for holding American POWs—who ironically nicknamed it the “Hanoi Hilton”.

Today, only a small portion of the original prison remains, but what’s left is deeply impactful. Through restored cells, haunting exhibits, and personal stories, the museum offers a sobering look at the struggles for independence, the brutal realities of colonial rule, and the resilience of those who endured it.

It’s not a lighthearted visit, but it’s one that leaves a lasting impression. If you want to truly grasp the events that shaped modern Vietnam, Hoa Lo Prison is a must-see.

5. Visiting the Temple of Literature

The Temple of Literature in Hanoi is one of Vietnam’s most iconic historical sites—and a must-see for anyone interested in the country’s cultural roots. Originally built in 1070 to honor Confucius, it later became Vietnam’s first national university, educating generations of scholars and aristocrats.

Unlike the ornate temples found in other parts of Asia, Vietnamese temples—like this one—tend to be architecturally simple. The structures are made of grey stone and wood, with clean lines and minimal decoration. But step inside, and you’ll find altars richly adorned with offerings, lacquered carvings, and golden inscriptions. The contrast between the modest exterior and the vibrant spiritual core is striking.

6. Hanoi Train Street

No visit to Hanoi is complete without experiencing the adrenaline-pumping spectacle of Train Street. Tucked between narrow buildings in the Old Quarter, this tiny alley is lined with cafés and restaurants—just inches from the railway tracks. And yes, real trains still thunder through here multiple times a day.

From the afternoon onward, the trains begin to roll in, and the atmosphere shifts. Tourists gather at the cafés, sipping egg coffee and waiting for the moment when the train barrels past—so close you could almost touch it. It’s thrilling, surreal, and absolutely unforgettable.

Tip: Always check with your hotel or a local café for the exact train schedule, as times can vary slightly. And Arrive early! Seats fill up fast, and if you’re late, you might end up standing or missing the best view. Once the train approaches, stay seated and behind the safety line—this is not the moment to test your reflexes. The train truly roars past within arm’s reach, and the rush of wind and sound is something you won’t forget.

It’s chaotic, it’s crowded, and yes—it’s touristy. But Hanoi Train Street is still 100% worth it for the sheer uniqueness of the experience.

7. Book a Street Food Tour

If you're looking to experience authentic Hanoi while diving straight into its culinary soul, then a street food tour is the way to go. With a local guide by your side, you'll explore hidden alleyways and bustling corners of the city, tasting dishes you probably wouldn’t have dared to try on your own. And trust us—they’re delicious.

From sizzling skewers and fresh spring rolls to steaming bowls of Pho and crispy Banh Mhi, you’ll learn not only what to eat, but how locals eat it. Sitting on tiny plastic stools, surrounded by the buzz of scooters and the scent of grilled meats, you’ll feel the heartbeat of Hanoi.

8. Water Puppet Theater

One of Hanoi’s most iconic cultural experiences is the Thang Long Water Puppet Theater, located near Hoan Kiem Lake. This traditional art form dates back over 1,000 years, originally performed in flooded rice paddies by farmers in the Red River Delta. Today, it’s brought to life on a stage of water, with wooden puppets dancing to live music and storytelling.

Is it a must-see? Maybe not for everyone. The show lasts about 50 minutes, and while the puppetry and music are charming, it can feel a bit touristy and scripted. That said, it’s still a fun and unique experience, especially if you’re curious about Vietnamese folklore and traditional performance arts.

HOTEL AND RESTO TIPS

Our hotel stay

During our time in Hanoi, we stayed at the Tirant Hotel, and it turned out to be a fantastic choice. Located right in the middle of the Old Quarter, it’s the perfect base for exploring the city’s buzzing streets, night markets, and cultural landmarks—all just steps away.

The hotel itself is stylish and welcoming, but what truly stood out was the breakfast. Served on a high floor with panoramic views, the buffet was absolutely incredible—fresh, varied, and beautifully presented. It’s the kind of breakfast that makes you want to linger a little longer before heading out.

Another bonus: the hotel has a rooftop swimming pool, which is quite rare in this part of Hanoi. While the weather isn’t always ideal for a swim—Hanoi can be cloudy or cool depending on the season—it’s still a lovely feature, especially for relaxing after a day of sightseeing.

Tried and tasted: Restaurant tips

When it comes to food recommendations, I like to keep things real. The restaurants listed below aren’t just random picks—they’re places we actually visited and genuinely enjoyed. Each one offered something special, whether it was the atmosphere, the flavors, or the warm hospitality.

So if you’re looking for spots that are truly worth your time (and appetite), these are our personal favorites—and absolute must-tries.

The note café, to have a drink
Hidden Gem Café: to have a drink and a snack.
Hanoi Food Culture, the food was delicious here!