For my last day in Hanoi, I decided to do things a little differently. Instead of booking a guided city tour or rushing from one attraction to another, I chose to slow down and experience the city in my own way. I did what I enjoy most when traveling—I walked, wandered, and let Google Maps loosely guide me through the streets.
Hanoi is the kind of city that doesn’t need a strict plan. It rewards curiosity more than schedules. If you’re like me and enjoy getting lost (the good kind), this city is perfect for that. Every street feels alive with movement and sound, every corner tells a story, and every turn holds the possibility of discovering something unexpected—whether it’s a quiet café, a street food stall, or a hidden temple tucked between old buildings.
One of the best things about Hanoi is how walkable it is, especially around Hoan Kiem Lake and the Old Quarter. Most of the main attractions are close to one another, making it easy to explore the city on foot in a single day without feeling rushed. Walking also lets you notice the small details—the rhythm of daily life, the contrast between old and new, and the charm that makes Hanoi so unforgettable.
Here are some of the places I think you shouldn’t miss, especially if it’s your first time visiting Hanoi.
✅ Places To Visit in Hanoi
Entrance fee: Free
Time Needed: 1–2 hours (or more, if you love slow travel)
Hoan Kiem Lake is the heart of Hanoi. The lake is steeped in legend “Hoan Kiem” means “Lake of the Returned Sword”, named after a mythical story in which Emperor Le Loi returned a magical sword to the Golden Turtle God after defeating invaders. You’ll also see a small temple on an island in the lake, Ngoc Son Temple, which commemorates national heroes and scholars.
The Lake is always lively, but it really comes alive in the early morning and on weekends. Locals jog, practice tai chi, take photos, or simply sit and enjoy the view. On weekends, some surrounding roads are closed to traffic, turning the area into a lively walking zone.
It’s a great place to slow down, people-watch, and soak in the city’s atmosphere.
💡 Tip: Visit early morning for calm vibes or around sunset for cooler weather and golden light.
Entrance fee: Free (unless you shop or eat… which you will 😅)
Time Needed: 2–3 hours (or more)
The Old Quarter is chaotic, colorful, and full of character. If you’re looking for a place to stay, I highly recommend staying around this area. This is where you’ll find street food, souvenir shops, cafés, and tiny alleys packed with motorbikes.
Yes, it’s busy. Yes, it’s loud. But that’s what makes it special.
💡 Tip: Keep your belongings close and don’t be afraid to say “no” politely to vendors.
Entrance fee: ~30,000 VND
Time Needed: 45–60 minutes
This is one of the most peaceful places in Hanoi. Known as Vietnam’s first university, the Temple of Literature has beautiful courtyards, traditional architecture, and a calm atmosphere that feels very different from the busy streets outside.
I didn’t spend hours here, but it was nice to slow down, walk around, and learn a little about Vietnam’s history.
💡 Tip: Dress modestly and go earlier in the day to avoid crowds.
Entrance fee: Free
Time Needed: 20–30 minutes
Located near the Old Quarter, right in the middle of the city, this cathedral stands out with its European-style architecture. The area around it is filled with cafés and small shops. Even if you don’t go inside, it’s a nice spot to take photos or just sit nearby and rest your feet.
💡 Tip: Check mass times if you plan to go inside, as it may close during services.
📍 Maison Centrale (Hoa Lo Prison)
Entrance fee: Around 30,000–50,000 VND
Time Needed: 1–1.5 hours
This place is very different from the lively streets of Hanoi, but it’s an important stop if you want to understand the city beyond food and photos. Maison Centrale, also known as Hoa Lo Prison, was built by the French during the colonial period and later used during the Vietnam War.
You’ll see old prison cells, photos, and exhibits that tell stories of the people who were held here. It’s quiet, serious, and thought-provoking. I wouldn’t say it’s for everyone, but if you’re curious about Vietnam’s history or enjoy learning about the past, this place is worth your time.
💡 Tip: Take your time reading the displays. Going earlier in the day is better if you want a calmer, less crowded visit.
Entrance fee: Free (but access depends on the day)
Time Needed: 20–30 minutes
Train Street is one of those places you’ve probably seen all over Instagram. I didn’t stay long because access changes often, and some areas are closed to tourists.
If it’s open when you go, be respectful, follow the rules, and don’t block the tracks. If it’s closed, don’t worry—Hanoi has plenty of other things to offer.
💡 Tip: Always check recent updates before going.
✅ Entrance Fees & General Vibes
Most attractions in Hanoi charge small entrance fees, but honestly, I was too busy wandering around and falling in love with the city to go inside many of them.
💡 Tip: Save at least one full day for exploring the city and wear very comfortable shoes. Hanoi is walkable, but the uneven streets will destroy your feet if you’re not prepared.
✅ Crossing the Road in Hanoi
Crossing the street in Hanoi feels like playing real-life Frogger 😂 There are traffic lights, but they feel more decorative than functional—and yes, it’s terrifying at first.
💡 How to survive: Walk slowly, confidently, and don’t panic. The motorbikes will flow around you. Somehow… it works.
✅ Extra Tips for First-Timers
- Always carry wet tissues or a water bottle. Public toilets don’t have bidets or water hoses.
- Bring small cash. For public toilets, bottled water, tips, or small purchases.
- Screenshot your hotel address in Vietnamese. Taxi drivers need the address, not the hotel name.
- Get a local SIM or pocket Wi-Fi. Cheap, fast, and super helpful.
- Malaysian Ringgit is NOT accepted. Use Vietnamese Dong. Prices may be shown in USD, but you’ll pay in VND.
- Food tip for Muslims. Try Zaynab Restaurant or D’Lions, or keep Maggi instant noodles as backup.
💛 Final Thoughts
Before this trip, I had heard so many scary stories about scams and safety in Vietnam. But honestly? My experience was the complete opposite.
From hotel staff and taxi drivers to tour guides and locals, everyone I met was incredibly kind. People helped me even when we didn’t speak the same language. One seller even corrected me when I gave the wrong amount of cash and took the time to explain how the Vietnamese Dong works. That small moment meant so much to me.
I felt safe, supported, and inspired throughout this journey. If you’re thinking about visiting Hanoi—or even traveling solo—just go for it.
Let the world surprise you.
Until next time, Vietnam.
—Auri Duham🌸
Discover more from Wanderhoney
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.