Private Hanoi Walking Tour: Local Hidden Gems and Train Street

Hanoi , Vietnam

Private Hanoi Walking Tour: Local Hidden Gems and Train Street

Active

3h - 4h

All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Experience the vibrant heart of Hanoi’s Old Quarter on this private walking tour, designed to reveal both the well-known highlights and the hidden gems of the city. Stroll through narrow, bustling streets with your own guide, capturing photos on the famous Train Street, exploring Dong Xuan Market, and discovering off-the-beaten-path corners full of local charm and daily life. This tour offers a personalized experience, allowing you to explore at your own pace, ask questions, and dive deeper into Hanoi’s history, culture, and cuisine. Enjoy the convenience of hotel pickup, flexible start times, and complimentary refreshments such as bottled water, coffee, or tea, ensuring a comfortable and memorable journey through the city’s most captivating streets.

Available options

Private Hanoi Walking Tour: Local Hidden Gems and Train Street

What's included

Coffee or Tea Included in Tour

Experienced english speaking guide

Pick Up at Hotel in Old Quarter Area

All entrance fees

Bottled of water

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Enjoy a private walking tour through Hanoi’s Old Quarter, where you’ll explore top highlights and hidden gems with a local guide. Visit the historic Long Bien Bridge, the lively Dong Xuan Market, the iconic Train Street, and St. Joseph’s Cathedral while discovering the city’s history, culture, and authentic daily life along the way.

Stop 2

We will visit and take photos at St. Joseph’s Cathedral, a 19th-century Gothic Revival church and one of Hanoi’s most iconic landmarks.

Ta Hien Street, known as Beer Street, is packed with bars and restaurants where hundreds of people gather, sitting on small plastic chairs and tables right along the street.

Stop 4

Dong Xuan Market, like Ben Thanh Market in Ho Chi Minh City or Dam Market in Da Nang, has long been a symbol of Hanoi. Located in the heart of the city, it is the largest wholesale market in the North, covering 6,500 m² and offering countless goods that serve daily life in the capital and supply traders across the region.

Stop 5

Long Biên Bridge is a historic cantilever bridge spanning the Red River, connecting Hanoi’s Hoan Kiem and Long Bien districts.

Visiting Hanoi Train Street is one of the best ways to experience true local life, where real trains run through a narrow residential street. Homes and shops open directly onto the tracks, with locals cooking, kids playing, motorbikes passing, and daily life unfolding just inches from the railway line. It's a unique and authentic glimpse into Hanoi’s vibrant community.

Stop 7

After train street, our guide will show you back to hotel/stays in Old Quarter. Say good bye to our guide.

What's not included

Personal Expense not mentioned

Meals

Available languages

Guide guide

VI EN

Important information

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

If you stay outside Hanoi Old Quarter, please come by your own to Hanoi Opera House, Tràng Tiền, Trang Tien, Hoàn Kiếm, Hanoi, Vietnam

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.