Hanoi Highlights and Hidden Charms Private Customizable Half Day
Active
3h - 4h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Explore the heart of Hanoi with a private 4-hour customizable tour tailored to your interests. This exclusive journey takes you from the tranquil Tran Quoc Pagoda on West Lake to the historic Ho Chi Minh Complex, allowing you to avoid long queues while immersing yourself in Vietnam's rich heritage.
Discover the architectural beauty of the French Quarter and wander through the vibrant Old Quarter's hidden streets, experiencing local life firsthand. Enjoy a flexible schedule with morning or afternoon options, ensuring a personal and stress-free exploration of Vietnam's capital.
- Fully private tour with a local experience expert
- Efficient visits to Ho Chi Minh Complex without long waits
- Scenic stops at Tran Quoc Pagoda and St. Joseph's Cathedral
- Customizable itinerary to fit your interests and preferences
Available options
Hanoi Highlights and Hidden Charms Private Customizable Half Day
What's included
Local experience expert
Entrance fee
Air-conditioned vehicle
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
the oldest Buddhist temple in Hanoi dating back to the 6th century. Set on a small island in West Lake, it offers stunning architecture and a peaceful atmosphere perfect for learning about Vietnamese spirituality
2
Stop 2
To maximize your time and save you from standing in the 1.5-hour queue, we focus on a guided exterior visit. You will walk through the grand Ba Dinh Square, seeing the solemn Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, the Presidential Palace from the outside. Your guide will share deep historical insights about "Uncle Ho" and the history of Vietnam while you take photos of the iconic architecture without the wait.
3
Stop 3
the largest wholesale market in Northern Vietnam. This is not just a tourist stop; it is a working market where traders from all over the region come to buy and sell. Your guide will navigate you through the "Dry Goods" aisles (smell the local mushrooms, bamboo shoots, and spices) and the fabric sections to show you the pulse of Hanoi's trade.
4
Stop 4
A neo-Gothic masterpiece known as "The Big Church." We stop for photos and to admire the French colonial architecture contrasting with the local streets.
5
Stop 5
We explore the "36 Streets" on foot, walking through hidden alleys and seeing the famous "Tube Houses."
6
driving past the elegant Opera House and colonial-era villas. We will stop at St. Joseph's Cathedral (The Big Church), a Neo-Gothic masterpiece that looks like a piece of Europe placed in the heart of Asia.
7
Stop 7
Modeled on the Palais Garnier in Paris, this is a landmark of the French Quarter.
8
Stop 8
Pass by
The largest lake in Hanoi, offering scenic views as we drive toward Tran Quoc Pagoda.
What's not included
Tips and gratuities
Personal expenses
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Tripadvisor
5.0
3 reviews
5★
3
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Important information
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Meeting point
We will pick you up at the front desk. The tour guide will be waiting for you with a sign with the lead traveler's name.
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.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
