Hanoi tours

Here is a selection of the best guided tours in Hanoi: 1) Explore historical Hanoi in a Full Day Tour 2) Explore Hanoi city on a rickshaw 3) Hanoi Full day tour - Explore All Authentic Local Street Foods & Sightseeing 4) Shore excursion - Halong boat trip for heritage site 5) One day in Ninh Binh, Full Day Tour from Hanoi

Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam, is a city rich in history, culture, and vibrant street life. Here are some must-do things in Hanoi: Visit the final resting place of Ho Chi Minh, the founding father of modern Vietnam. The mausoleum is an important historical and political site. Explore the narrow, bustling streets of the Old Quarter, known for its traditional architecture, street markets, and vibrant atmosphere. Take a stroll around Hoan Kiem Lake and visit Ngoc Son Temple located on an island in the lake. The lake is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike. Discover Vietnam's first national university, founded in 1070. The Temple of Literature is a beautifully preserved complex and a symbol of Hanoi's rich cultural heritage. Visit the Hoa Lo Prison, often sarcastically referred to as the ""Hanoi Hilton."" It was originally used by the French colonialists and later by North Vietnam during the Vietnam War. Gain insights into Vietnam's diverse ethnic groups and their traditions at this excellent museum, located a bit outside the city center. Experience a unique traditional art form by watching a water puppet show, where puppets perform on the water accompanied by live traditional music. Explore one of the largest covered markets in Hanoi, offering a wide range of goods, from clothing and accessories to local food products. Indulge in the diverse and delicious Vietnamese cuisine by taking a street food tour. Try local specialties like pho (noodle soup), banh mi (baguette sandwiches), and egg coffee. Take a cyclo ride through the chaotic and charming streets of Hanoi's Old Quarter. It's a unique way to experience the city's hustle and bustle. Take a walk or rent a bike to explore the historic Long Bien Bridge, built over the Red River during the French colonial period. Remember that Hanoi is a city with a unique blend of old and new, and these activities offer a glimpse into its rich history and vibrant culture.

The cost of a private tour in Hanoi can vary depending on several factors, including the duration of the tour, the specific attractions or areas you wish to visit, the level of customization, and the number of people in your group. Additionally, prices may vary among different guides, as they set their own prices with ToursByLocals. The cost of a private tour in Hanoi typically ranges from around $150 - $450. It's important to note that each guide sets their own prices, which is why there can be a large variation between one guide and another. When planning a private tour, be sure to read the 'what's included' and 'what's extra' sections of the tour page. If you don't quite see what you are looking for, you can send a message to the guide and discuss customizing a tour to meet your specific needs and budget.

Here are some of the top tours in Hanoi, each highly rated with over 20 reviews! 1) Unlock the secrets of hidden Hanoi on a half-day Tour with Local Guide 2) Amazing Hanoi city with local expert: hightlights+ hidden gems+ train street 3) Hanoi - 1000 years of History and Religion Tour 4) Unique Hanoi Off the Beaten Path Full Day Tour 5) Foodie Tour in Hanoi

ToursByLocals guides set their own prices in order to compensate themselves fairly for the hard work they do and the time spent preparing for the private tour as well as delivering the tour itself. Therefore there is no expectation for ToursByLocals customers to tip their guide. Writing a review after the tour is a great way to show your appreciation to your guide as it helps them receive more inquiries in the future.

Guided tours are perfect for getting in-depth knowledge about the history, culture, and significance of the places you're visiting. If you're interested in learning about Hanoi from a local expert, a guided tour can be very informative, and an excellent use of your vacation time. A local guide can help bridge the communication gap in areas where English is not widely spoken. If you have limited time in Hanoi and want to see as much as possible in a short period, a private guided tour can be efficient. That way you are not restricted by a set schedule and can prioritise what you want to see in the time you have. Although private tours are generally more expensive than a group tour, they’re remarkably value: a good guide can provide you with insider tips, hidden gems, and local recommendations that will help you avoid tourist traps or overpriced places during your stay. ToursByLocals guided tours can be tailored to specific interests, such as art, history, or food. If you have a niche interest, a specialised tour can enhance your experience.

Yes, you can hire a tour guide in Hanoi. Hiring a tour guide can be a great way to enhance your travel experience and gain valuable insights into the local culture, history, and attractions. ToursByLocals has over 15 local guides in Hanoi who are local experts and offer a wide range of customizable private tours. They will work with you to customize an itinerary based on your interests and preferences. Private tour guides can provide a more personalized experience and offer flexibility in terms of scheduling and activities.

There are several interesting destinations near Hanoi that make for great day trips. Here are some recommendations: Halong Bay: Known for its stunning limestone karsts and emerald waters, Halong Bay is a UNESCO World Heritage site located about 3-4 hours from Hanoi. While an overnight cruise is recommended to fully enjoy the beauty of the bay, a day trip can still offer a glimpse of its natural wonders. Tam Coc (Halong Bay on Land): Often referred to as ""Halong Bay on Land,"" Tam Coc is known for its limestone karst landscape and scenic river. Take a boat ride through the caves and rice paddies for a picturesque experience. Tam Coc is approximately a two-hour drive from Hanoi. Perfume Pagoda (Chua Huong): Located about 60 km southwest of Hanoi, the Perfume Pagoda is a complex of Buddhist temples built into the limestone cliffs. Accessible by a boat trip along the Yen River and a short hike, it's a popular pilgrimage site. Duong Lam Ancient Village: Duong Lam, about a 1.5 to 2-hour drive from Hanoi, is a well-preserved ancient village known for its traditional architecture, ancient houses, and narrow alleyways. It offers a glimpse into rural Vietnamese life. Bat Trang Ceramic Village: Situated around 13 km southeast of Hanoi, Bat Trang is a traditional village famous for its ceramic and pottery products. Explore the workshops, try your hand at pottery, and shop for unique souvenirs. Hoa Lu Ancient Capital: Hoa Lu, the ancient capital of Vietnam in the 10th and 11th centuries, is home to historic temples and relics. It's located about a 2-hour drive from Hanoi and offers a glimpse into the country's feudal history. Cuc Phuong National Park: For nature enthusiasts, Cuc Phuong National Park is Vietnam's first national park and is home to diverse flora and fauna. The park is around a 2.5-hour drive from Hanoi and offers trekking trails and a primate rescue center. Ba Vi National Park: Located about 60 km west of Hanoi, Ba Vi National Park is known for its three-peaked mountain and lush landscapes. You can visit the Ba Vi National Park to enjoy nature, trekking, and visit the Ho Chi Minh Temple at the summit. Remember to plan your day trip well, considering travel time and the specific attractions you'd like to explore.

The ideal duration for a tour of Hanoi can vary based on personal preferences, interests, and the pace at which you like to travel. However, for a well-rounded experience that allows you to explore the city's main attractions and soak in its unique culture, a stay of around 3 to 4 days is often recommended. This timeframe provides enough time to cover key landmarks, try local cuisine, and perhaps take a day trip to nearby attractions. Here's a suggested breakdown for a 3 to 4-day itinerary in Hanoi: Day 1: Explore the Old Quarter and Hoan Kiem Lake Visit the Old Quarter, stroll through its narrow streets, and experience the vibrant street life. Explore Hoan Kiem Lake and Ngoc Son Temple. Try local street food and dine at a traditional Vietnamese restaurant. Day 2: Historical and Cultural Sites Visit the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, One Pillar Pagoda, and the Temple of Literature. Explore the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology to learn about the country's diverse ethnic groups. Take a cyclo ride or walk through the streets to experience local life. Day 3: Leisure and Relaxation Spend a leisurely day exploring museums, art galleries, and enjoying the local cafes. Consider a water puppet show in the evening. Day 4: Day Trip or Additional City Exploration Take a day trip to a nearby destination like Halong Bay, Tam Coc, or Perfume Pagoda. Alternatively, use the day to explore more of Hanoi, such as the West Lake area, Long Bien Bridge, or other districts. This itinerary is flexible, and you can adjust it based on your interests and the specific attractions you want to prioritize. If you have more time, you can delve deeper into specific areas of interest or take additional day trips to explore the surrounding regions.

The cost of a 7-day trip to Hanoi from the United States can vary widely based on several factors, including the time of year, travel preferences, accommodation choices, and personal spending habits. Here are some general considerations to help you estimate the expenses: Flights: The cost of flights can fluctuate based on the season, airline, and how far in advance you book. Round-trip flights from the United States to Hanoi could range from $600 to $1,500 or more, depending on factors such as departure city, airline, and class of service. Accommodation: Hanoi offers a wide range of accommodation options, from budget hostels to luxury hotels. On average, you might expect to spend anywhere from $20 to $200 or more per night, depending on your choice of lodging. Meals: Food in Hanoi is generally affordable, especially if you stick to local eateries and street food. Budget around $10 to $20 per day for meals, but this can vary depending on your dining preferences. Transportation: Local transportation costs within Hanoi, such as taxis, cyclos, or Grab rides, are relatively reasonable. A budget of $10 to $20 per day should cover local transportation expenses. Activities and Sightseeing: Entrance fees to attractions and other activities will contribute to your overall expenses. Budget around $20 to $50 per day for sightseeing and activities. Keep in mind that these are rough estimates, and actual costs may vary. Additionally, currency exchange rates can influence expenses. It's advisable to check current prices and plan accordingly based on your preferences and travel style. Always consider travel insurance and any potential visa fees in your budget as well.

Hanoi offers a variety of accommodation options to suit different preferences and budgets. The best area to stay in depends on your interests, the type of experience you're seeking, and your budget. Here are a few popular areas to consider when choosing accommodation in Hanoi: Old Quarter (Hoan Kiem District): The Old Quarter is a bustling and vibrant area known for its narrow streets, historical architecture, and lively atmosphere. It's a great choice if you want easy access to street markets, local eateries, and cultural attractions. French Quarter (Hai Ba Trung District): The French Quarter features wide boulevards, colonial-era buildings, and a more laid-back atmosphere compared to the Old Quarter. This area is known for its upscale hotels, government offices, and embassies. West Lake (Tay Ho District): West Lake is a large freshwater lake surrounded by trendy neighborhoods, upscale restaurants, and expat-friendly establishments. It's a quieter option compared to the city center, and you can enjoy scenic views of the lake. Ba Dinh District: Ba Dinh is home to important historical and political sites, including the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and the Temple of Literature. If you prefer a quieter area with easy access to cultural attractions, Ba Dinh is a good choice. Cau Giay District: Cau Giay is a modern and rapidly developing district with shopping malls, offices, and universities. It's a good option if you prefer a more contemporary atmosphere. When choosing accommodation, consider factors such as proximity to attractions, your preferred neighborhood atmosphere, and your budget. Hanoi offers a range of accommodations, from budget-friendly hostels and guesthouses to boutique hotels and luxury resorts. Reading reviews from other travelers can provide valuable insights into the quality of accommodations. Additionally, booking in advance, especially during peak seasons, is advisable to secure your preferred lodging.

The best time to visit Hanoi is during the spring (from March to April) and the autumn (from September to November). During these seasons, the weather is relatively mild, and you can enjoy comfortable temperatures and lower humidity. Here's a breakdown of the weather during different seasons in Hanoi: Spring (March to April): Spring is considered one of the best times to visit Hanoi. The weather is pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F). The city comes alive with blooming flowers, and you can experience traditional festivals, including the Tet holiday (Vietnamese New Year). Autumn (September to November): Autumn is another favorable season with mild temperatures and lower humidity. The weather is typically cool, and temperatures range from 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F). This season is known for clear skies and pleasant breezes. Winter (December to February): Winter in Hanoi can be cool, with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 20°C (50°F to 68°F). While it's not extremely cold, it can get chilly, and occasional light drizzles occur. Winter is a good time for those who enjoy a cooler climate. Summer (May to August): Summer in Hanoi is characterized by higher temperatures and increased humidity. The temperatures can range from 25°C to 35°C (77°F to 95°F). While some travelers may find the heat uncomfortable, others might appreciate the vibrant green landscapes during this time. Be prepared for occasional heavy rain showers, especially in July and August. Consider your personal preferences and the type of activities you plan to engage in when choosing the best time to visit. Keep in mind that the weather can vary, and unexpected rain showers can occur. If you're interested in local festivals and cultural events, checking the calendar for specific dates might enhance your experience during your visit to Hanoi.