Hanoi, a city rich in history and culture, offers much more than its famous tourist attractions. For those looking to delve deeper into the local culture and daily life, exploring hidden gems and unique, off-the-beaten-track experiences is a must. These lesser-known activities and sights provide a richer connection to the city’s vibrant traditions and welcoming communities. From traditional calligraphy classes to local family dinners and serene pagodas, Hanoi’s hidden treasures promise unforgettable experiences that go beyond the typical tourist path.
- On the back of a motorbike tour
- Old Quarter early morning
- Cycling at Banana Island
- Visit Quang Ba Flower Market
- Join a street food tour
- Join a traditional calligraphy class
- Explore Long Bien Market
- Experience a local family dinner through a homestay
- Watch the flag raising and lowering ceremony at Ba Dinh Square
- Walk Along the Ceramic Mosaic Road
- Visit Hidden Coffee Shops
- Cyclo ride around West Lake
- Visit craft villages around Hanoi
- Join a local Tai Chi or Qigong Class in a park
- Eat snake at Hanoi’s Snake village
- Visit Hanoi’s hidden pagodas
1. On the back of a motorbike tour
Most travelers tend to stay around the Old Quarter, as it hosts many of the best things to do in Hanoi within a short walking distance or a quick taxi ride. However, for those who want to delve deeper and explore the more local and authentic parts of the city, a motorbike tour is the way to go. These tours are designed for adventurous souls seeking to experience the real Hanoi beyond the typical tourist spots. Riding on the back of a motorbike, just like the locals, you’ll venture into neighborhoods and hidden corners that are not listed on TripAdvisor.
You’ll pass through bustling markets, quiet residential areas, and vibrant street scenes, guided by a local who knows the city intimately. This way, you get to see a side of Hanoi that is seldom witnessed by outsiders, making it a truly unique adventure. These tours are not about ticking off famous landmarks, but about immersing yourself in the real Hanoi, experiencing its vibrant energy, and connecting with its people.
2. Old Quarter early morning
Even the most touristic place in Hanoi, the Old Quarter, can offer a tranquil and authentic experience if you’re willing to wake up early. In the early morning, while most tourists are still asleep or enjoying breakfast at their hotels, the Old Quarter is already bustling with local activity. Street vendors set up their stalls, selling steaming bowls of pho and fresh banh mi to the early risers. The narrow streets are filled with the sounds and smells of the city coming to life.
This is an ideal time for street photographers to capture the essence of Hanoi without the crowds, as you can photograph the stunning streetscapes and local life in its purest form. Experiencing the Old Quarter at dawn allows you to see a different side of Hanoi, one that is more peaceful and intimately connected to its residents.
3. Cycling at Banana Island
Just outside the Old Quarter, across the Long Bien Bridge, lies Banana Island, a hidden gem that offers a stark contrast to the urban hustle of Hanoi. This area, part of the Red River Delta, feels like a world away from the city’s busy streets. Banana Island is an expanse of rural land where you can experience the simplicity and beauty of Vietnam’s countryside. Cycling through this area, you’ll see lush banana plantations, small farms, and locals going about their daily activities. It’s a refreshing escape into nature and rural life, right on the edge of the city. Many cycling tours are available, often combining a visit to Banana Island with explorations of other off-the-beaten-path places in Hanoi. These tours provide a perfect blend of seeing the authentic rural and urban lives of Hanoi, making it a unique and enriching experience.
4. Visit Quang Ba Flower Market
For a truly unique experience in Hanoi, visit the Quang Ba Flower Market after midnight. Located in Tay Ho District, this vibrant market comes alive as the city sleeps. Under the glow of streetlights, local vendors arrange colorful blossoms into stunning displays, creating a magical atmosphere. This is a fantastic opportunity to witness a side of Hanoi rarely seen by tourists. You’ll find a wide variety of flowers, from traditional lotus blossoms to exotic orchids. The market is not only a feast for the eyes but also a sensory delight, with the intoxicating fragrance of flowers filling the air.
5. Join a street food tour
Embarking on a street food tour is considered the best thing to do in Hanoi overall, and Hanoi’s street food scene is the soul of the city. Street food is an integral part of Vietnamese culture, offering a tantalizing array of flavors and dishes that reflect the heart of Hanoi. While you can explore the street food scene on your own, you might end up at popular tourist spots with high TripAdvisor reviews.
To truly experience the authentic flavors, a local guide can take you to hidden gems that you wouldn’t find on your own. Besides introducing you to delicious and unique dishes, a local guide can share insider information about Hanoi’s culture and traditions. This personal connection and deeper understanding of the city make a street food tour not just about the food but about bringing you closer to the essence of Hanoi and its people.
6. Join a traditional calligraphy class
Discover the art of Vietnamese calligraphy by joining a traditional class. This unique experience offers the opportunity to learn the intricate and beautiful script writing that is deeply rooted in Vietnamese culture. Engaging with local artisans, you’ll gain insight into the traditions and techniques passed down through generations. This class is a peaceful and meditative activity that provides a deeper appreciation for Vietnam’s artistic heritage.
7. Explore Long Bien Market
Long Bien Market, located near the iconic Long Bien Bridge, is a bustling wholesale market that comes to life in the very early hours of the morning. This non-touristy thing to do in Hanoi offers an authentic glimpse into the city’s vibrant trade scene. The market is a hive of activity as vendors unload fresh produce, seafood, and various goods from trucks and motorbikes. It’s a fascinating sight to see locals haggling and purchasing supplies for their businesses. Visiting Long Bien Market allows you to experience the raw, unfiltered energy of Hanoi and observe the essential role this market plays in the daily lives of its residents. The market’s atmosphere and the sheer scale of operations make it a truly captivating experience.
8. Experience a local family dinner through a homestay
Immerse yourself in Vietnamese culture with a local family dinner through a homestay. Enjoy authentic home-cooked meals while connecting with local families and learning about their daily lives. This experience offers a genuine glimpse into the warmth and hospitality of the Vietnamese people, providing an intimate setting to share stories and traditions. It’s a memorable way to understand the local way of life and create lasting connections.
9. Watch the flag raising and lowering ceremony at Ba Dinh Square
Witnessing the flag raising and lowering ceremony at Ba Dinh Square is a solemn and patriotic event that takes place daily in front of the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum. The ceremony is conducted with precise military formality, starting at 6:00 AM for the raising and 9:00 PM for the lowering. It’s a unique and respectful experience that reflects the national pride and historical significance of this revered site.
10. Walk Along the Ceramic Mosaic Road
Walking along the Ceramic Mosaic Road is a unique experience in Hanoi. This impressive artwork stretches for about 4 kilometers along the Red River dike, near the Old Quarter. It’s a Guinness World Record holder for the longest ceramic mosaic, featuring intricate designs that depict Vietnam’s history, culture, and people. Each section of the mosaic is crafted by various artists, making it a vibrant and colorful journey through the country’s rich heritage.
11. Visit Hidden Coffee Shops
Hidden coffee shops in Hanoi offer some of the best non-touristy things to do in Hanoi, often located just around the corner from the bustling streets of the Old Quarter. These hidden gems are tucked away in narrow alleys and unassuming buildings, providing a peaceful escape from the crowds. Some notable mentions include Cafe Dinh, known for its egg coffee and old-world charm, and Tranquil Books & Coffee, a cozy spot for book lovers. However, the most intriguing hidden cafes are often not listed online and require the guidance of a local to discover, making the adventure even more rewarding.
12. Cyclo ride around West Lake
While Hoan Kiem Lake is the most famous lake in Hanoi, West Lake (Ho Tay) offers a more local and non-touristic experience. Located outside the Old Quarter, it is the largest lake in Hanoi and a popular spot among locals and expats. A cyclo ride around West Lake allows you to explore its serene environment, with scenic views, lush greenery, and numerous temples, including the famous Tran Quoc Pagoda. Along the way, you’ll encounter local fishermen, families enjoying picnics, and peaceful cafes, providing a genuine glimpse into the everyday life of Hanoi residents.
13. Visit craft villages around Hanoi
There are many craft villages around Hanoi, some more popular than others. While Bat Trang Pottery Village attracts many visitors, hidden gems like the fish trap village remain off the beaten track. These non-touristic villages see few visitors because they are small and located at a distance from Hanoi, making them perfect to combine with other nearby attractions. Examples include the Van Phuc Silk Village, known for its traditional silk weaving, and the Quang Phu Cau Incense Village, famous for its vibrant incense sticks. Visiting these villages offers an authentic glimpse into traditional Vietnamese crafts and the daily lives of local artisans.
14. Join a local Tai Chi or Qigong Class in a park
Start your day by joining a tai chi or qigong class in one of Hanoi’s scenic parks. This activity offers a peaceful way to connect with the local community and practice ancient forms of exercise that promote health and well-being. The gentle movements and serene environment provide a calming start to your day amidst the city’s hustle and bustle. It’s a unique cultural experience that enhances your physical and mental wellness.
15. Eat snake at Hanoi’s Snake village
Visit Hanoi’s Snake Village and try eating snake for a truly unique culinary adventure. This experience offers a glimpse into local culinary traditions that date back centuries. You’ll have the opportunity to taste various snake dishes, prepared in traditional ways, and learn about the cultural significance of this practice. It’s an unforgettable experience that challenges your taste buds and expands your culinary horizons.
16. Visit Hanoi’s hidden pagodas
Explore Hanoi’s hidden pagodas for a serene and spiritual experience away from the tourist crowds. Discover Tay Phuong Pagoda, Tay Pagoda, and Thanh Chuong Viet Palace, each offering a tranquil retreat and a deeper understanding of Vietnam’s religious heritage. These sites feature stunning architecture and peaceful surroundings, providing a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. Visiting these pagodas allows you to appreciate the spiritual and cultural depth of Hanoi in a more intimate setting.
