Experience the charm of Hanoi by exploring the city in the morning, when the streets are less crowded and the air is cooler. Take a stroll around Hoan Kiem Lake and watch the locals doing their morning exercises. Visit the city’s historic sites, such as the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and the Temple of Literature, and see the changing of the guards. Enjoy a cup of Vietnamese coffee and some traditional breakfast dishes in one of the many street food stalls in the Old Quarter.
What time is sunrise in Hanoi?
In Hanoi, the time of sunrise varies throughout the year, offering early risers a chance to witness the city’s morning beauty. Below is a monthly table indicating the approximate sunrise times for each month:
| Month | Sunrise Time |
|---|---|
| January | 6:15 AM |
| February | 6:30 AM |
| March | 6:15 AM |
| April | 5:50 AM |
| May | 5:30 AM |
| June | 5:15 AM |
| July | 5:20 AM |
| August | 5:30 AM |
| September | 5:40 AM |
| October | 5:50 AM |
| November | 6:00 AM |
| December | 6:15 AM |
Best things to do in Hanoi in the morning
1. Visit local markets
As the sun slowly rises over Hanoi, the city comes alive with the sounds and smells of the early morning markets. For those who are early risers, there are several markets in Hanoi that offer a unique glimpse into local life.
Quan Ba flower market
One of the most popular early morning markets is the Quan Ba flower market. Located in Tay Ho District., the flower market is a colorful and vibrant place, filled with a variety of flowers and plants. It’s open from around 2-3am until sunrise, and it’s the largest wholesale flower market in the city. It’s a great place to see a wide variety of flowers and to watch the vendors unload their trucks and set up their stalls.
Dong Xuan Market
Dong Xuan Market is one of the largest and oldest markets in Hanoi, and it’s open from 6am to 6pm. However, if you’re an early riser, you can visit the market as early as 4am to see the wholesale vendors setting up their stalls and to experience the hustle and bustle of the market before the crowds arrive. You can find just about anything here, from fresh produce to clothing, electronics, and souvenirs.
Long Bien Market
For those who are up for an adventure, the Long Bien Market is another early morning market that is worth a visit. This market is located just outside the city center and offers an authentic local experience. It’s a wholesale market, where locals come to purchase fresh produce and other goods in bulk. The market opens at around 2am and is busiest in the early hours of the morning. Walking through the bustling market, surrounded by vendors shouting out their wares, is an unforgettable experience.
2. Sunrise
A great spot to watch the sunrise in Hanoi is from the Long Bien Bridge, which spans the Red River. The bridge offers a unique perspective of Hanoi and the river, and the sunrise creates a stunning reflection on the water.
If you prefer a more natural setting, head to Hoan Kiem Lake, located in the heart of the city. Here, you can watch the sun rise over the tranquil waters while surrounded by the lush greenery of the surrounding parks.
For a more cultural experience, head to West Lake, where you can watch the sunrise from the Tran Quoc Pagoda. This ancient temple is one of the oldest in Hanoi and is set on a small island in the middle of the lake, providing a peaceful and serene setting for sunrise viewing.
3. Hoan Kiem Lake
At the very early morning, Hoan Kiem Lake in Hanoi is a serene and peaceful place to be. As the sun rises, locals and visitors alike gather at the lake to start their day with exercise, meditation, and socializing. The air is cool and fresh, and the lake is shrouded in mist, creating a mystical atmosphere.
One of the most popular activities at Hoan Kiem Lake in the morning is tai chi. You can join in with the locals and learn some moves, or simply observe the graceful movements of the practitioners. Another popular activity is jogging or walking around the lake, which is about 1.5 kilometers in circumference. This is a great way to get some exercise and enjoy the beautiful surroundings.
4. Old Quarter
Walking around the narrow streets and alleys of the old quarter during this time offers a different perspective of the city. The streets are quiet and peaceful, and you can experience the daily life of the locals.
It is great time to take photos without tourist, while walking around the old quarter’s historic architecture, colonial-era buildings, and French-style boulevards is a great way to take in the city’s unique charm and character.
Another highlight of the old quarter is the street food scene. You can find numerous street vendors selling a variety of breakfast dishes, such as pho noodle soup, banh mi sandwiches, and sticky rice cakes. Eating breakfast on the street is a popular local tradition and a great way to start your day.
5. Flag ceremony on Ba Dinh Square
The flag ceremony at Ba Dinh Square takes place daily, just before sunrise and just after sunset. It is a ceremonial event that involves the raising or lowering of the Vietnamese flag and the playing of the national anthem. The ceremony is conducted by the Honour Guard, a group of soldiers who wear white uniforms and helmets with red feathers. The ceremony attracts many visitors who come to witness the solemn and patriotic event, which is seen as a symbol of national pride and unity. It is a must-see attraction for anyone visiting Hanoi.
In addition there is also the Changing of the Guard ceremony at Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum also located on Ba Dinh Square that usually takes place in the morning, typically around 9:00 AM. However, it is subject to change and may be cancelled on certain days or during special events, so it’s recommended to check the schedule in advance.
6. Go out for a traditional breakfast
One of the best ways to experience Hanoi in the morning is by enjoying a traditional Vietnamese breakfast. The city’s streets come alive with food vendors offering a variety of delicious breakfast options. From steaming bowls of pho to freshly made banh mi sandwiches and sticky rice cakes, there’s something for everyone. Eating breakfast at a street food stall is a popular local tradition and a great way to start your day immersed in the flavors and culture of Hanoi.
Hanoi morning itinerary
Experience the charm of Hanoi in the early morning hours with this itinerary that takes you through some of the city’s best hidden gems and unique experiences.
Experience the charm of Hanoi in the early morning hours with this itinerary that takes you through some of the city’s best hidden gems and unique experiences.
Start: Quan Ba Flower Market (2:00 AM – 4:00 AM)
Begin your day at the Quan Ba Flower Market, one of Hanoi’s largest and most vibrant flower markets. Arrive early to see the market in full swing as vendors unload their fresh flowers and set up their stalls. The market is a feast for the senses, filled with the colors and fragrances of various flowers.
Next: Long Bien Market (4:00 AM – 5:30 AM)
Head over to Long Bien Market, a bustling wholesale market where locals come to buy fresh produce and other goods. Walking through this lively market, you’ll experience the authentic atmosphere of Hanoi’s early morning trade. The market opens around 2 AM, but it’s busiest in the early hours.
Option 1: Sunrise at Long Bien Bridge (5:30 AM – 6:00 AM)
Catch the sunrise from Long Bien Bridge, which offers a unique perspective of Hanoi and the Red River. The sunrise creates stunning reflections on the water, making it a perfect spot for photography and enjoying the serene morning views.
Option 2: Flag Ceremony at Ba Dinh Square (5:50 AM – 6:10 AM)
If you choose to attend the flag ceremony, head to Ba Dinh Square. The ceremony starts at 6:00 AM, and the drive from Long Bien Market to Ba Dinh Square takes about 10 minutes without traffic. Witness the solemn event of the flag raising by the Honor Guard, which symbolizes national pride and unity.
Old Quarter (6:30 AM – 7:30 AM)
If you opt to explore the Old Quarter, you’ll find the streets more peaceful in the early morning. It’s an excellent time for photography, as the tourist crowds are still at breakfast or in bed. Wander through the narrow streets, admire the historic architecture, and soak in the local atmosphere.
Hoan Kiem Lake (7:30 AM – 8:30 AM)
Head to Hoan Kiem Lake to see locals performing their morning exercises, such as tai chi and jogging. The lake is surrounded by lush greenery and has a mystical atmosphere in the early hours, making it a peaceful spot to relax and enjoy the scenery.
Breakfast (8:30 AM – 9:00 AM)
Finish your morning with a traditional Vietnamese breakfast at one of the street food stalls. Enjoy a steaming bowl of pho or a freshly made banh mi sandwich. Eating breakfast on the street is a popular local tradition and a great way to immerse yourself in Hanoi’s culinary culture.
