Hanoi City Half-Day Private Tour with Train Street Experience

Hanoi , Vietnam

Hanoi City Half-Day Private Tour with Train Street Experience

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About this experience

Hanoi is the capital and the center of culture, economy, education and politics of Vietnam. Along with the many thousand years of civilization, Ha Noi owns in it many ancient and modern works, unique sidewalk cultural experiences, and special historical sites. This makes Ha noi a very attractive destination for tourists all over the world. With thousands of years of history and entrenched in a clash of cultures, seeing Hanoi with a local guide is the way to go. Your own personal guide shares the city’s highlights and local culture, with your choice of itineraries that both include the Old Quarter. Choose a morning or afternoon departure and see the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum Complex, Tran Quoc Pagoda, Hoa Lo Prison, and the famous train street.

Available options

Hanoi City Half-Day Private Tour with Train Street Experience

Pickup included

What's included

Pick up/drop off at hotel around Hanoi City by Private Car

English Speaking Guide with best care

Coffee or Tea at Train Street

Entrance fees for sightseeing as program

Bottle of water on transfer roundtrip

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

This is a private tour so you can request for pickup at your location in Hanoi. The time duration of the tour will last 4 to 4,5 hours. You can choose the given start times matching your plan. Our guide and vehicle will pick you up at your location.

Stop 2

First stop at Tran Quoc Pagoda - the oldest pagoda in this city with a long-standing history. Being a sacred “gem” in the middle of West Lake, this religious site is an ideal spot for any cultural enthusiast in Vietnam’s capital.

With a history of 1,500 years, Tran Quoc Pagoda is the oldest pagoda in Hanoi. It was built in 541 in the Early Ly Dynasty, originally named Khai Quoc Pagoda. At that time, the pagoda was located near the banks of the Red River. In 1615, when the dyke collapsed, the pagoda was relocated to Yen Phu dyke in the Kim Nguu mound area.
The pagoda’s name was changed to Tran Quoc during the reign of King Le Hy Tong (1681 - 1705), with the hope that Tran Quoc Pagoda would be a place to help people repel natural disasters and also bring them a peaceful life. The name “Tran Quoc” is used to this day.
Fast forward to the Tran Dynasty, Tran Quoc Pagoda was deemed the capital of Buddhism. Today, it is considered an iconic symbol of Hanoi.

Next sop at Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum in Ba Dinh Square is one of the most visited attractions in Hanoi. It is the final resting place of Ho Chi Minh, the most iconic and popular leader of Vietnam, known to his people as ‘Uncle Ho’. His body is preserved here in a glass case at the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum in central Hanoi (albeit against his wishes).

Stop 4

Just few minutes away from Hilton Hanoi Opera Hotel, Hoa Lo Prison, also known as “Hanoi Hilton” and “Maison Centrale”, is a historical site in the French Quarter of Hanoi. Loosely translated as “hell’s hole”, it was originally built by French colonist in 1896 to house and torture revolutionary Vietnam rebels. Under the name “Maison Centrale”, Hoa Lo became one of the largest and the most brutal prison complexes in Indochina. Later, Hoa Lo was used to keep US prisoners of war (POW), who referred to it as the “Hanoi Hilton“. During the 1990s, most of the prison was demolished, but a part has been kept and transformed into a museum, as one of top Hanoi attractions.

Hanoi train street used to be one of the most renowned tourist destinations in the capital. It is a tiny, winding street tucked away in one of Hanoi’s back streets, surrounded by tightly clustered, tall, narrow houses. The train travels by the backyards of these families a couple times each day. We will enjoy a cup of coffee while waiting for the train to pass tthrough. Hanoi Train Street is a unique and captivating attraction nestled in the heart of Vietnam’s bustling capital. It’s a narrow residential street where life unfolds just inches away from the railway tracks. What makes it truly special is that several times a day, a massive train rumbles through the narrow passage, mere feet away from houses and cafes.

Stop 6

After train street, we will transfer you back to hotel in Hanoi City. You will say good bye our guide and driver. End tour!

What's not included

Meal, Beverages and Personal expenses

Tips for driver/guide is appreciated

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

About Hanoi

Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam, is a vibrant city steeped in history and culture. Known for its French colonial architecture, bustling Old Quarter, and rich culinary scene, Hanoi offers a unique blend of traditional and modern experiences.

Top Attractions

Hoan Kiem Lake

Hoan Kiem Lake is a serene oasis in the heart of Hanoi, surrounded by lush greenery and historical landmarks. The lake is a popular spot for locals and tourists to relax and enjoy the scenery.

Nature 1-2 hours Free

Hanoi Old Quarter

The Old Quarter is the historic and cultural heart of Hanoi, featuring narrow streets lined with traditional shops, temples, and colonial-era architecture. It's a vibrant area with a rich history and bustling atmosphere.

Historical Half day to full day Free to explore, shopping and dining vary

Temple of Literature

The Temple of Literature is a historic Confucian temple dedicated to education and literature. It's a serene and culturally significant site, featuring beautiful architecture and a peaceful garden.

Historical 1-2 hours 30,000 VND

Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum

The Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum is a significant historical site where the embalmed body of Vietnam's revolutionary leader, Ho Chi Minh, is displayed. The mausoleum is a place of pilgrimage and a symbol of Vietnam's history.

Historical 1-2 hours Free

Hanoi Opera House

The Hanoi Opera House is a stunning example of French colonial architecture, featuring elegant design and a rich history. It's a popular venue for cultural performances and events.

Architecture 1-2 hours for a performance Varies by event

Must-Try Local Dishes

Pho

A traditional Vietnamese noodle soup with a flavorful broth, rice noodles, and thinly sliced meat, typically beef or chicken.

Lunch/Dinner Can be made vegetarian or vegan

Bun Cha

Grilled pork patties served with rice noodles, fresh herbs, and a dipping sauce.

Lunch/Dinner Contains meat

Banh Mi

A Vietnamese sandwich with a crispy baguette, filled with various ingredients such as grilled meat, pâté, pickled vegetables, and fresh herbs.

Snack/Lunch Can be made vegetarian or vegan

Egg Coffee

A unique Vietnamese coffee made with strong drip coffee, condensed milk, and a frothy egg yolk mixture.

Drink Contains eggs and dairy

Popular Activities

Kayaking in Ha Long Bay Trekking in Sapa Boat ride in Hoan Kiem Lake Coffee at a local café Exploring the Temple of Literature Visiting the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum Swimming and snorkeling in Ha Long Bay Egg coffee tasting

Best Time to Visit

October to December

This period offers pleasant weather with lower humidity and temperatures, making it ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities. The city is less crowded compared to the peak tourist season.

15°C to 25°C 59°F to 77°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Vietnamese
Widely spoken: English, French
English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited in other areas

Currency

Vietnamese Dong (VND)

Time Zone

GMT+7

Electricity

220VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Hanoi is generally safe for travelers, with low crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere. However, petty crime and scams can occur, and travelers should exercise caution and be aware of their surroundings.

Important Precautions:

• Be cautious of your belongings, particularly in crowded areas and on public transportation.
• Use reputable taxi companies and insist on using the meter or agree on a price before starting your journey.
• Be wary of strangers offering help or services, as they may be trying to scam you.

Getting there

By air

Noi Bai International Airport • 28 km from city center

By train

Hanoi Railway Station

By bus

Giap Bat Bus Station, My Dinh Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

The bus system in Hanoi is affordable and covers most of the city. However, it can be crowded and confusing for first-time visitors.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Grab, Gojek

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Old Quarter French Quarter Ba Dinh District Tay Ho District

Day trips

Ha Long Bay

165 km from Hanoi • Full day to overnight

Ha Long Bay is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its stunning limestone karsts and islets, emerald waters, and scenic beauty. It's a popular destination for cruises, kayaking, and exploring caves.

Ninh Binh

90 km from Hanoi • Full day

Ninh Binh is known as 'Halong Bay on land' due to its stunning limestone karsts, rice paddies, and historic sites. It's a popular destination for cycling, boat rides, and exploring ancient temples.

Sapa

320 km from Hanoi • Overnight to multi-day

Sapa is a mountainous region known for its stunning rice terraces, ethnic minority villages, and trekking opportunities. It's a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and cultural experiences.

Festivals

Tet Nguyen Dan (Lunar New Year) • January or February (based on the lunar calendar) Mid-Autumn Festival • September or October (based on the lunar calendar) Hanoi International Film Festival • October or November (annual)

Pro tips

Learn a few basic Vietnamese phrases to enhance your experience and connect with locals.
Explore the city's hidden gems and lesser-known attractions, such as the Hanoi Ceramic Mosaic Mural and the Temple of Literature.
Try local street food and visit markets for an authentic and delicious culinary experience.
Use a navigation app, such as Google Maps or GrabMaps, to help you get around the city and avoid getting lost.
Be cautious of your belongings, particularly in crowded areas and on public transportation, to avoid petty crime and scams.