5 must-try experiences when visiting Hanoi this holiday

This year’s holiday period brings together Hung Kings Commemoration Day, a tribute to Vietnam’s founding kings (the 10th day of the third lunar month), with the Reunification Day and International Labor Day, creating an extended break that offers an ideal opportunity for travelers to rest and recharge.

Among urban destinations, Hanoi stands out as a must-visit.

According to a report by Booking.com, Hanoi ranks among the top 10 most searched destinations by both Vietnamese and international travelers in the first half of the year, driven by rising demand for personalized travel experiences.

For those drawn to authentic local culture, the following suggestions offer a closer look at the city’s distinctive charm.

Taking a stroll around Hoan Kiem Lake

Located in the heart of Hanoi, Hoan Kiem Lake draws visitors with its open, airy setting and relatively fresh atmosphere.

The lake is best experienced between 5:00 am and 7:00 am.

As summer sets in and temperatures begin to rise, this early part of the day marks a fresh beginning for many residents.

Visitors can catch a quieter, more gentle side of the city, with groups exercising, soft music playing in the background, and cool morning air.

The streets surrounding the lake remain calm, with only occasional traffic passing by, offering an ideal setting for a walk or a light jog around the lake.

Local food experiences

After an early morning workout, a bowl of hot pho, a type of Vietnamese soup, usually served with rice noodles, slices of beef or chicken, and herbs, makes for a satisfying breakfast.

Around Hoan Kiem Lake and the Old Quarter, visitors can find a range of well-known spots such as Pho Suong, Pho Bung Hang Trong, and Pho Bat Dan.

For lunch, lighter options include bun dau mam tom (tofu, shrimp sauce, and noodles) in Gach Alley, Dong Thai Alley, or Hang Khay Street, as well as bun cha (rice noodle vermicelli) at Hang Quat Street or Huyen Alley.

Vegetarian diners can also find a variety of well-regarded options in central Hanoi, including Uu Dam Chay on Nguyen Du Street and Hoi Chay on Quan Thanh Street, both popular for casual gatherings.

For a relaxed evening, visitors can head to Ta Hien Street to enjoy a glass of local beer with snacks such as fermented pork rolls, dried fish, or grilled squid.

Old quarter cafés

No visit to Hanoi is complete without lingering at its cafés. The city offers a wide range of styles, from nostalgic heritage houses to modern spaces and soft, romantic settings.

In Hanoi’s Old Quarter, many cafés are tucked inside century-old buildings, making them ideal for those seeking a quiet, reflective atmosphere.

These spaces preserve the charm of old Hanoi, with wooden interiors, narrow balconies, and a sense of timelessness.

For younger visitors, cafés around West Lake or near Ly Tu Trong Garden provide a more vibrant experience, combining scenic views with well-crafted drinks and popular photo spots.

Cycling around West Lake at sunset

Watching the sunset in Hanoi is a lesser-known but rewarding experience, with West Lake offering some of the best views in the city.

Along the lake, the sun slowly sets behind the distant skyline, casting warm, shimmering reflections across the water.

Some of the best places to catch the view include Thanh Nien Street near Tran Quoc Pagoda, as well as Tu Hoa and Quang Ba Streets.

Before settling in for sunset, visitors can cycle around the lake, enjoy a local ice cream, or try Hanoi specialties such as banh tom (fried shrimp cake) along the lakeside.

Exploring night markets

To round off the day, exploring night markets offers a memorable experience for visitors. Two well-known options in the city are Dong Xuan Market and Quang An Flower Market.

Located in the Old Quarter, Dong Xuan Market is one of Hanoi’s largest wholesale hubs, selling a wide range of goods from clothing and footwear to fabrics.

Beyond shopping, the market also features a lively food scene, with numerous stalls offering local snacks and street food.

About five kilometers away on Au Co Street, Quang An Flower Market is known for its bustling atmosphere after dark.

Also, it offers a wide variety of fresh flowers at affordable prices, attracting both traders and visitors alike.