Hanoi city tour
Tour Overview
Hanoi, the vibrant heart of Vietnam, is not only the political and cultural center of the country but also a city rich in historical charm and modern energy. A full-day city tour offers visitors the perfect opportunity to explore its timeless beauty — from ancient architecture and tree-lined boulevards to lively street corners and bustling markets. Discover the soul of Hanoi through its centuries-old landmarks, traditional museums, and the iconic 36 Old Streets. Enjoy the unique sidewalk culture, witness the art of Vietnamese water puppetry, and experience the local way of life that makes this city so unforgettable. Whether you're wandering through historical relics or savoring the rhythm of daily life, a day in Hanoi promises memories that will stay with you long after your trip ends.
Itinerary
Hanoi, gracefully nestled along the banks of the Red River, stands as one of the oldest capital cities in the world. This charming destination invites visitors to explore its well-preserved colonial architecture, ancient temples and pagodas, and an array of museums that showcase its rich and diverse history.
Morning
08:00 – 08:30 – Our friendly tour guide will pick you up from your hotel to begin your full-day exploration of Hanoi’s cultural landmarks.
08:45 – Begin the day at Tran Quoc Pagoda, a peaceful sanctuary by West Lake. This is Hanoi’s oldest pagoda, dating back to the 6th century, known for its elegant architecture and spiritual ambiance.
09:30 – Head to the Ho Chi Minh Complex, where you'll visit the mausoleum of Vietnam’s beloved leader (viewing is subject to opening schedule), stroll through the peaceful gardens, and see the simple stilt house where he lived and worked. Nearby, explore the unique One Pillar Pagoda, built to resemble a lotus blossom – a symbol of purity.
Note: Modest attire is required when visiting spiritual and memorial sites (shoulders and knees covered). The Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum is closed on Mondays, Fridays, and from mid-June to mid-August for annual maintenance. Visitors can still explore the surrounding area during closures.
11:15 – Discover the cultural richness of Vietnam's 54 ethnic groups at the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology.
Special note: On Mondays, the itinerary includes a visit to the Vietnamese Women’s Museum instead, offering deep insights into the vital role of women in Vietnamese society and culture.
12:45 – Enjoy a delightful Vietnamese lunch featuring 8 traditional dishes at a local restaurant.
Afternoon
14:00 – 14:15 – Visit the Temple of Literature, Vietnam’s first national university, founded in the 11th century. This peaceful complex is dedicated to Confucius and honors scholars throughout Vietnamese history.
15:15 – Journey to Hoa Lo Prison Museum, a historical site once used by the French to detain Vietnamese revolutionaries, and later by North Vietnam to house American prisoners of war. Known to American POWs as the "Hanoi Hilton", this museum offers a sobering look into the country’s wartime past.
16:15 – 16:30 – Conclude the tour and return to your hotel, filled with lasting impressions of Hanoi’s heritage and charm.
