Hanoi Local Street Food Culture and History Tour

Hanoi , Vietnam

Hanoi Local Street Food Culture and History Tour

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About this experience

Join this 3.5-hour food adventure through the heart of Hanoi’s Old Quarter—available daily at 11:00 AM or 5:30 PM. Perfect for foodies and culture lovers, this small-group walking or motorbike tour (1–10 people) takes you off the beaten path to hidden eateries and local favorites you’d likely miss on your own. Sample 5–8 delicious Vietnamese dishes and 3 local drinks, including egg coffee and fresh beer, while learning about Hanoi’s rich history, culture, and cuisine from the passionate English-speaking guides. Vegetarian or vegan options available. Hotel pickup in the Old Quarter is included, and private or customized tours can be arranged upon request. Come hungry and curious—leave full and inspired!

Available options

Walking Food Tour

Pickup included

Motorbike Food Tour

Mortorbike<br/>Pickup included

What's included

Bottled Water

1 Beer

Enthusiastic and skilled English speaking guide.

Egg Coffee

5-8 Local Street Food Dishes

Helmet And Drivers (for motorbike option)

Pick-up and drop off services from Hoan Kiem District

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

The guide will pick you up from your hotel or a designated meeting point located in the center of Hanoi's Old Quarter (only). Before the tour begins, you'll enjoy a quick Vietnamese greeting lesson. This tour's guides will also take time to discuss any food allergies to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. Throughout the tour, they will share insights into Vietnamese cuisine as well as the history and culture of Vietnam, with a special focus on Hanoi.

The tour guides will take you to explore many hidden corners, alleys, and local restaurants in the Old Quarter—places you might easily miss if exploring on your own. Along the way, you'll have the chance to sample a wide variety of authentic Vietnamese street foods and drinks. These include local favorites such as bún chả (grilled pork with noodles), phở bò/gà (beef or chicken noodle soup), bún ốc (snail noodle soup), bánh cuốn (steamed rice paper rolls), bánh gối (pillow dumplings), nem rán (fried spring rolls), bánh tôm (shrimp dumplings), bánh mì (Vietnamese sandwich), chè (sweet dessert soup), bánh bao (Vietnamese dumpling), bánh khoai and bánh chuối (sweet potato and banana cakes), hoa quả dầm (mixed fresh fruit dessert), as well as local drinks like bia hơi (fresh draft beer), trà đá (iced tea), and the famous cà phê trứng (egg coffee).

Tour ends at Hoan Kiếm Lake or anywhere convenient for tourists to return, and then tour guides will show them how to get back your hotels/hostels if tour has more than 2 groups otherwise we will take you back hotels.

What's not included

Tips Are Optional

Personal Expense

Anything Not Mentioned In Itinerary

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Tripadvisor 5.0

2 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

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.