What to Do in Hanoi: 7 Local Experiences You Can’t Miss

So, you’ve landed in Hanoi—chaotic, charming, buzzing Hanoi. First off: welcome! If you’re a backpacker, solo traveller, or just here for good vibes and better noodles, you’ve picked the right city. But with so many temples, scooters, smells (some delicious, some confusing), and things happening all the time, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed.

No worries! We’ve got you covered. Here’s our guide on what to do in Hanoi, with all the good stuff you don’t want to miss. From chilling in the Old Quarter to motorbiking through lakeside roads, this is your Hanoi travel guide, Quiri-style.

1.Wander the Old Quarter Without a Map

The best way to start your Hanoi adventure? Just walk. The Old Quarter of the Capital is a chaotic maze of scooters, street food stalls, tiny shops, and French colonial buildings. Don’t over-plan it—getting a little lost is half the fun. You’ll stumble on temples, street vendors selling bánh mì, and hidden cafés you won’t find in any Hanoi travel guide.Besides if you try to plan it too hard then you would default to the most “popular foreigner spots” anyway- and those are notorious for the price and the waiting times. It’s better for you to try the local shops instead!

If you’re wondering what to do in Hanoi that costs you nothing, this is it. Wandering through the Old Quarter is one of the top things to do in Hanoi Old Quarter—and if you ever feels like getting lost, Google Map is your friend to help you find your way back to your hostel or hotel!

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2. Eat Like a Local: Street Food First, Always

Honestly, Hanoi’s street food scene is a destination in itself. Think hot bowls of phở at plastic tables, sizzling bún chả grilling on the curb, and that legendary egg coffee you’ve seen all over Instagram. Restaurants maybe fancy, but the charm of Hanoi in particular and Vietnam in general is the cheap and affordable street foods- so don’t miss out on it!

Food is central to any real experience of the city. Still wondering what to do in Hanoi? Start every day with something new from a vendor—especially around the Old Quarter. Bonus tip: Join a food tour if you’re nervous at first. You’ll learn what to try and get more confident ordering after you tasted them and figure out which food you loved.

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3. Chill at Hoàn Kiếm Lake and Ngọc Sơn Temple

Need a little peace amid the madness? Head to Hoàn Kiếm Lake. Locals come here early to do tai chi, jog, or just people-watch. On weekends, the roads around the lake turn into a walking street, with live music, games, and street performances.

You’ll also spot Ngọc Sơn Temple right in the middle of the lake—a quiet spot to slow down and get a little cultural context. It’s a classic destination in every Hanoi travel guide, and for good reason.

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4. Visit the Train Street—but Be Respectful

You’ve probably seen it on TikTok or Instagram: a narrow alley with a train barreling through inches away from homes. It’s wild—and yes, it’s real. But don’t treat it like a theme park. People actually live there despite the dangers.

Visit with respect, ideally with a guide or by stopping at a café run by residents. It’s one of the more unique things to do in Hanoi Old Quarter, but remember, safety and respect first.

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5. Sip a Cheap Bia Hơi on Tạ Hiện Street

Tạ Hiện Street is Hanoi’s version of Khao San Road. Come nightfall, it’s buzzing with backpackers, locals, and everyone in between. Grab a plastic stool and order a bia hơi—Vietnam’s ultra-light, ultra-cheap draft beer (the price is about 25 cents a glass).

It’s not fancy, but it’s one of the most social experiences in the city. You’ll meet other travellers, share stories, and maybe even plan your next day over a few beers. If you ask us what to do in Hanoi on a budget, this is a no-brainer.

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6. Catch a Water Puppet Show and experience Hanoi culture

This activities may sounds weird for foreigners , but trust us, the water puppet show is a quirky, cultural tradition that’s been around for centuries. It’s performed over water with live music and storytelling about Vietnamese legends. And it’s way more entertaining than it has any right to be.

Shows happen daily at Thăng Long Water Puppet Theatre near the lake, and it’s a fun, offbeat thing to do when you need a break from walking or eating.The show’s in Vietnamese, but you don’t really need a translator—just sit back and enjoy the music, puppets, and atmosphere. It’s weird, fun, and totally unique!

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7. Get Local Advice (Right at Quiri Hostel)

Still not sure what to do in Hanoi? Come talk to us at Quiri Hostel. We’re not just here to give you a bed—we’ve got insider tips, local spots most tourists miss, and updates on walking tours, events, and the famous Ha Giang Loop.

We’re right in the heart of the Old Quarter, so whether you’re chasing food, culture, or chill vibes, you’re never far from your next adventure.

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Quiri Hostel Hanoi
📍 25 Hàng Lược, Hoàn Kiếm, Hanoi
🎒 Free breakfast. Welcome beer. Local tips daily.