What are the best things to do in Hanoi, Ha Noi?

The most popular things to do in Hanoi, Ha Noi include Hoàn Kiếm Lake, Ngoc Son Temple, Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre, Vietnam Museum of Ethnology, Old Quarter. These are the attractions travelers most often add to their Hanoi, Ha Noi itineraries.

How many days do you need in Hanoi, Ha Noi?

Most travelers spend 2 to 5 days in Hanoi, Ha Noi. Browse day-by-day Hanoi, Ha Noi itineraries to see how other travelers structured their trips around these attractions.

74 Best Things to Do in Hanoi, Ha Noi

The places travelers add to their Hanoi, Ha Noi trips most.

Free day-by-day itinerary in seconds. No account needed to start.

The top things to do in Hanoi, Ha Noi, ranked by how often 11 real traveler itineraries include them, are Hoàn Kiếm Lake, Ngoc Son Temple and Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre. Hoàn Kiếm Lake appears in 15 of 11 trips. Below are the top 20 and why travelers go.

Built from 11 real traveler itineraries on Packy AI. Last updated November 2026 by the Packy AI Travel Team.

What to do in Hanoi, Ha Noi

1. Hoàn Kiếm Lake
In 15 Hanoi, Ha Noi trips
This beautiful lake is perfect for a peaceful walk and offers a glimpse of Hanoi's charming culture surrounding it, including the iconic Ngoc Son Temple.
Free
2. Ngoc Son Temple
In 15 Hanoi, Ha Noi trips
Located on an island in Hoan Kiem Lake, this historic temple is dedicated to a legendary general and is a quaint representation of Hanoi's rich history.
₫30,000
3. Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre
In 15 Hanoi, Ha Noi trips
Experience the unique Vietnamese art of water puppetry, a fascinating performance that showcases traditional folk stories with colorful puppets on water.
₫100,000
4. Vietnam Museum of Ethnology
In 14 Hanoi, Ha Noi trips
Explore Vietnam's diverse ethnic cultures through exhibits, artifacts, and outdoor displays featuring traditional homes and cultural performances.
₫40,000
5. Old Quarter
In 14 Hanoi, Ha Noi trips
Wander through the vibrant streets of Hanoi's Old Quarter, famous for its bustling markets, street food, and French colonial architecture.
Free
6. Temple Of Literature
In 12 Hanoi, Ha Noi trips
As Vietnam's first university, this ancient temple is a stunning representation of Confucian architecture and a symbol of the nation's scholarly tradition.
₫30,000
7. Ho Chi Minh's Mausoleum
In 10 Hanoi, Ha Noi trips
Visit the final resting place of Vietnam's beloved leader, Ho Chi Minh. This solemn monument is a must-see for understanding Vietnamese history.
Free
8. Sky Lotte Observation Deck
In 10 Hanoi, Ha Noi trips
Enjoy panoramic views of Hanoi from this observation deck located in one of the tallest buildings, providing an excellent perspective of the city's vibrant landscape.
₫200,000
9. Tran Quoc Pagoda
In 10 Hanoi, Ha Noi trips
As the oldest pagoda in Hanoi, Trấn Quốc is a serene place of worship located on a small island in West Lake, offering stunning views and tranquility.
Free
10. One Pillar Pagoda
In 9 Hanoi, Ha Noi trips
A unique architectural wonder in a serene setting, this historic pagoda symbolizes Hanoi, built to resemble a lotus blossom, integral to Vietnamese Buddhism.
Free
11. Vietnam National Fine Arts Museum
In 9 Hanoi, Ha Noi trips
Showcasing Vietnamese art across different eras, this museum features paintings, sculptures, and folk art, making it a cultural gem worth exploring.
₫40,000
12. West Lake
In 9 Hanoi, Ha Noi trips
The largest lake in Hanoi, perfect for sunset walks, cycling, and enjoying local cafés while taking in stunning views of the city and nature.
Free
13. Botanical garden Hanoi
In 8 Hanoi, Ha Noi trips
A peaceful escape with tropical plants, beautiful trees, and ponds, perfect for a family picnic or a leisurely stroll amidst nature.
Free
14. Imperial Citadel of Thang Long
In 8 Hanoi, Ha Noi trips
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this ancient citadel showcases Vietnam's rich history and architecture from various dynasties, perfect for history lovers.
₫30,000
15. cầu Long Biên
In 6 Hanoi, Ha Noi trips
An iconic bridge with historic significance, offering picturesque views of the Red River and an interesting glimpse into Hanoi's evolution over the years.
Free
16. St. Joseph Cathedral
In 6 Hanoi, Ha Noi trips
This stunning neo-Gothic cathedral, built in the 19th century, is a central point for locals and provides a glimpse into Hanoi's colonial past.
Free
17. Hanoi Opera House
In 5 Hanoi, Ha Noi trips
An architectural masterpiece, this opera house hosts a variety of performances and events, reflecting the cultural elegance of Hanoi and French colonial history.
₫100,000
18. Hoa Lo Prison Relic
In 5 Hanoi, Ha Noi trips
Explore the history of this prison, which showcases Vietnam’s struggle for independence and its past under French colonial rule.
₫30,000
19. Vietnam National Museum of History
In 4 Hanoi, Ha Noi trips
Explore Vietnam's history through exhibits that range from prehistoric times to modern day, housed in a stunning French colonial building.
₫40,000
20. Bach Ma Temple
In 4 Hanoi, Ha Noi trips
One of the oldest temples in Hanoi, it offers insight into local spiritual practices and stunning architectural features set in a peaceful atmosphere.
Free