Getting Around in Hanoi
Hanoi offers three main rideshare services: Xanh SM, Grab, and Be. A major benefit of using rideshare services is the upfront fare display, ensuring transparency and convenience. Xanh SM, operated by VinGroup, stands out for its premium service with a fleet of new EV cars and professionally trained drivers.
Taxis are also abundant and can be flagged down easily on the street. To avoid potential overcharging, it’s recommended to use reliable brands such as G7, Thanh Nga, and Mai Linh. Both G7 and Xanh SM provide airport transfer services, making them trustworthy and convenient options.
Rideshare and taxi fares in Hanoi are about $0.50/km, with most destinations within the city falling within a 10 km radius, making them both affordable and practical. Fares are calculated based on distance via a meter or app, not by time (unlike in Australia).
Food
Vietnamese food is an integral part of the country’s culture, deeply rooted in traditions and shared experiences. Whether it’s for gatherings, celebrations, or casual meals, food takes center stage. Hanoi’s culinary scene is globally acclaimed for its depth of flavor, fresh ingredients, and a beautiful balance of sweet, sour, salty, and spicy elements. Here’s a guide to the must-try dishes and the suggested places to enjoy them.
Not-to-Miss:
- Phở (Vietnamese Noodle Soup)
Hanoi’s signature dish, Phở, is a fragrant noodle soup made with a clear, flavorful broth (usually beef or chicken), fresh rice noodles, and aromatic herbs. It’s typically served with lime, chili, and fresh herbs on the side. Best enjoyed for breakfast or lunch.
- Bún Chả (Grilled Pork with Vermicelli)
A classic Hanoi dish of grilled pork patties and slices, served in a tangy, slightly sweet dipping sauce with fresh vermicelli noodles, herbs, and pickled vegetables. It’s believed to have inspired President Obama’s famous Hanoi meal.
- Bánh Cuốn (Steamed Rice Rolls)
Thin, delicate rice sheets filled with minced pork and wood ear mushrooms, topped with fried shallots and served with a tangy fish sauce. This light and savory dish is often eaten for breakfast or as a snack.
- Bánh Mì (Vietnamese Sandwich)
A fusion of French and Vietnamese flavors, the Bánh Mì sandwich consists of a crispy baguette filled with meats (such as grilled pork or pate), pickled vegetables, cucumber, and fresh herbs, topped with chili sauce or mayonnaise. Perfect for a quick meal.
- Nem Rán (Fried Spring Rolls)
These crispy, golden spring rolls are stuffed with a mix of minced pork, shrimp, mushrooms, and glass noodles, then deep-fried to perfection. Often served as an appetizer or side dish with dipping sauce.
- Gỏi Cuốn (Fresh Spring Rolls)
Also known as summer rolls, these light and healthy rolls are made of fresh shrimp, pork, vermicelli, and herbs wrapped in soft rice paper. They’re served cold with a peanut-hoisin dipping sauce.
- Chả Cá (Grilled Turmeric Fish)
This Hanoi specialty features fish marinated in turmeric and grilled to perfection, then served on a sizzling skillet with dill and spring onions. It’s eaten with rice noodles, peanuts, and fish sauce. Chả Cá Lã Vọng is the most famous version.
- Chả Lá Lốt (Grilled Beef in Betel Leaves)
Minced beef or pork, seasoned with spices, is wrapped in aromatic betel leaves and grilled over charcoal. These rolls are smoky, tender, and served with noodles or rice paper for wrapping.
- Egg Coffee (Cà Phê Trứng)
A Hanoi invention, this rich, creamy coffee is made by whisking egg yolks with sugar and condensed milk, then layering it over robust Vietnamese coffee. It’s a must-try for coffee lovers and dessert enthusiasts alike.
- Bia Hơi Hà Nội (Fresh Beer)
Hanoi’s famous draft beer is light, refreshing, and inexpensive. Found in local beer halls and street-side stalls, Bia Hơi is best enjoyed with friends, alongside snacks like peanuts or grilled meats.
Others: Vietnamese cuisine goes far beyond the popular dishes listed above. Its diversity is astounding, with an abundance of options to suit every palate. Street food is a major part of Hanoi’s culinary culture, where countless stalls and small shops line the streets, often with tiny plastic chairs and tables spilling onto the pavement. Alfresco dining in Hanoi takes this experience to a whole new level, offering a vibrant and authentic atmosphere.
Some unique dishes to try include Nem Chua Rán (fried fermented pork rolls), Chân Gà Nướng (grilled chicken feet), Trứng Vịt Lộn (fertilized duck egg), Tóp Mỡ Chiên Mắm (crispy pork fat fried with fish sauce), Đậu Phụ Rán Mắm Tôm (fried tofu with shrimp paste), and various types of Nộm (Vietnamese salads). For a broader guide, check out this list of must-try Vietnamese dishes: 21 Must-Try Vietnamese Dishes.
Hanoi is also a melting pot of global cuisines. You’ll find an impressive range of restaurants offering Korean, Japanese, Thai, French, Italian (including pizza), and other international dishes, making the city a paradise for food enthusiasts of all kinds.
Places-to-eat:
Many of the dishes listed above are staples of daily life in Hanoi and can be found almost anywhere. For hearty meals that provide both protein and carbs, such as Phở or Bún Chả, the best experience is often at specialty shops dedicated solely to that dish, offering several variations on the menu.
For lighter dishes like Nem Rán (fried spring rolls) or Chả Lá Lốt (grilled beef in betel leaves), specialty shops are also an option, but you’re just as likely to find these at restaurants that serve a wide variety of Vietnamese dishes. Using Google Maps to discover highly-rated spots is a great way to enhance your dining experience, but even unassuming local eateries often deliver delicious and authentic flavors.
Here are a few places to spark your appetite, but don’t feel limited to these options—Hanoi offers countless alternatives to explore!
- Phở 10 Lý Quốc Sư
- Address: 10 Lý Quốc Sư, Hoàn Kiếm, Hà Nội
- Known for its rich and flavorful beef phở, this iconic spot often has a crowd. Alternatively, try one of its chain locations or explore other local phở-only shops. Look for clean and inviting spaces, and you’re likely to enjoy a great bowl.
- Bún Chả Hương Liên
- Address: 24 Lê Văn Hưu, Hai Bà Trưng, Hà Nội
- Famous for hosting President Obama and Anthony Bourdain, this place serves exceptional bún chả. For a less crowded option, consider Bún Chả Sinh Từ, which also offers fantastic quality.
- Ngon Garden
- Address: 70 Nguyễn Du, Hai Bà Trưng, Hà Nội
- A charming restaurant offering a curated selection of Vietnamese dishes in a beautiful garden setting.
- Bò Tơ Quán Mộc
- Multiple locations in Hanoi
- Specializes in beef dishes, particularly from northern Vietnam, served in a cozy, rustic environment.
- A Bản
- Website: aban.com.vn
- Known for its focus on ethnic Vietnamese cuisine, especially dishes from mountainous regions. Unique and flavorful options in a modern setting.
- Nhà Hàng Món Ngon Sài Thành
- Multiple locations in Hanoi
- Specializes in southern Vietnamese dishes, offering a different regional perspective on the country’s cuisine.
- Nét Huế
- Multiple locations in Hanoi
- A must-visit for Hue-style dishes, including bánh bèo (steamed rice cakes) and nem lụi (grilled pork skewers).
- Tạ Hiện Street
- Location: Hoàn Kiếm, Hà Nội
- Hanoi’s vibrant nightlife and street food hub, known as the “Beer Street.” Enjoy Bia Hơi alongside a variety of snacks like grilled skewers, fried nem chua, and more.
- Michelin Guide Restaurants
- Explore Here: Michelin Guide Hanoi
- A curated list of top restaurants in Hanoi, offering elevated dining experiences that showcase Vietnamese cuisine at its finest.
- Vegetarian Options
Vietnamese cuisine incorporates plenty of fresh herbs and vegetables, but traditionally, vegetables have not been seen as sufficient sources of protein, which is why vegetarian dishes have not been as prominent. However, vegetarian options are becoming increasingly popular. While typical eateries may not have an extensive vegetarian menu, you can still find options. In restaurants, you can request dishes featuring rau (vegetables), đậu phụ (tofu), or đồ chay (vegetarian food).
For fully vegetarian restaurants, check out this curated list: Top 16 Hanoi Vegetarian Restaurants.
Places to visit
In Hanoi:
- Hoan Kiem Lake (Lake of the Restored Sword)
Located in the heart of Hanoi, this picturesque lake is ideal for a relaxing stroll. On weekends (Friday to Sunday), nearby traffic is banned from 7 PM to midnight, transforming the area into a lively public square. Don’t miss the iconic Ngoc Son Temple on a small island, linked to the shore by a bright scarlet bridge in classical Vietnamese style.
- Hanoi Old Quarter
This bustling area near Hoan Kiem Lake offers a charming blend of ancient Vietnamese architecture, vibrant street markets, and diverse street food. Each street specializes in a different trade, creating a lively and historic atmosphere.
- Temple of Literature
Known as Vietnam’s first university, this historic temple is dedicated to Confucius and honors the country’s scholarly traditions. Its traditional Vietnamese architecture and serene gardens offer a peaceful escape from the city’s hustle.
- West Lake
Hanoi’s largest lake serves as a popular gathering spot, surrounded by shops, restaurants, and lush gardens. Visit Tran Quoc Pagoda, a serene Buddhist temple located on a small island connected by a bridge. Enjoy the stunning views of West Lake and its neighboring Truc Bach Lake.
- Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum Complex
Explore this historic site, which includes the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum (closed Mondays and Fridays), Ho Chi Minh’s stilt house, the Ho Chi Minh Museum, the One Pillar Pagoda, and Ba Dinh Square. Set aside at least half a day to fully immerse yourself in this significant location.
- Hoa Lo Prison – “Hanoi Hilton”
Once used to house American pilots during the Vietnam War, this historical site provides an eye-opening glimpse into Hanoi’s tumultuous past. The museum features exhibits on both the colonial French and Vietnam War eras.
Within Driving Distances
- Ha Long Bay
(Approximately 2.5 hours drive from Hanoi)
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Ha Long Bay is famed for its emerald-green waters dotted with thousands of limestone islands and islets. Explore the bay by staying on a luxurious cruise, which often includes stops at spectacular caves like Sung Sot (Surprise Cave) and Ti Top Island for panoramic views. Alternatively, stay at coastal hotels and enjoy day tours.
- Ninh Binh
(Approximately 1.5 hours drive from Hanoi)
Known as the “Ha Long Bay on land,” Ninh Binh boasts a surreal landscape of limestone karsts rising dramatically from lush green paddies. The best way to experience this UNESCO World Heritage Site is by taking a paddleboat tour through its shimmering waterways, such as Tam Coc or Trang An. Don’t miss Bai Dinh Temple, the largest Buddhist temple complex in Vietnam, or hike to the summit of Hang Mua for breathtaking views of the countryside.
Other Destinations:
- Hue
(Approximately 1 hour 15 minutes flight from Hanoi)
Once the imperial capital of Vietnam, Hue is steeped in history and culture. Explore the vast Đại Nội Citadel, surrounded by a moat and stone walls, which houses the Imperial City, the Forbidden Purple City (former emperor’s residence), and a replica of the Royal Theater. Hue is also renowned for its royal tombs, pagodas, and delicious imperial cuisine.
- Da Nang
(Approximately 1 hour 20 minutes flight from Hanoi)
This vibrant coastal city symbolizes Vietnam’s rapid modernization with gleaming skyscrapers, modern resorts, and theme parks. Despite its transformation, Da Nang retains its charm with laid-back locals, incredible street food, and natural attractions like Marble Mountains and My Khe Beach. The city also serves as a gateway to nearby cultural gems like Hoi An.
- Hoi An
(Accessible by bus or taxi from Da Nang)
Hoi An is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its well-preserved Ancient Town, a charming blend of Chinese, French, and Vietnamese architectural styles. Stroll through lantern-lit streets, visit the iconic Japanese Covered Bridge, and enjoy riverside dining. Hoi An is also famous for its tailored clothing shops and vibrant night markets.
- Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) & Mekong Delta
(Approximately 2 hours flight from Hanoi)
Vietnam’s largest city is a bustling metropolis with a fascinating mix of French colonial architecture, modern skyscrapers, and traditional markets. Key attractions include the Notre-Dame Cathedral, War Remnants Museum, and Ben Thanh Market. From Ho Chi Minh City, take a day trip to the Mekong Delta, a lush region of rivers, canals, and floating markets.
- Phu Quoc Island
(Fly from Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City)
This tropical paradise is famous for its white-sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, and luxury resorts. Over half of the island is part of Phu Quoc National Park, offering jungle treks, mountain views, and wildlife encounters. Enjoy snorkeling, diving, or simply relaxing on the palm-fringed beaches of the southwest coast.
Performance and Cultural Shows/Activities in Hanoi
- Water Puppet Show
- Experience: A uniquely Vietnamese art form, the water puppet show features wooden puppets manipulated on water, accompanied by live traditional music. It portrays scenes of rural life and ancient legends, offering a glimpse into Vietnam’s cultural heritage.
- Details and Booking: Thang Long Water Puppet Show
- The Quintessence of Tonkin
- Experience: This grand outdoor spectacle combines live performances by local artists, traditional Vietnamese music, a water-light show, and storytelling. The production immerses audiences in the spiritual and cultural essence of Vietnam, showcasing daily life and sacred traditions in a picturesque countryside setting.
- Details and Booking: The Quintessence of Tonkin Show
- Vietnam Museum of Ethnology
- Experience: A comprehensive museum highlighting the cultural diversity of Vietnam’s 54 officially recognized ethnic groups. Visitors can explore both contemporary and permanent exhibits, including traditional costumes, artifacts, and full-scale replicas of ethnic minority homes.
- Details: Vietnam Museum of Ethnology