Have you been wondering which tour is the best walking tour in Hanoi? I’ve got you covered!
Vietnam is renowned for its breathtaking natural landscapes, flavorful Vietnamese cuisine, as well as its intriguing colonial history.
As a cultural gem of South East Asia, Vietnam boasts a rich and storied heritage that dates back thousands of years.
🏆 BEST WALKING TOURS IN HANOI
Don’t have time to read the whole article? The best choice is this small-group tour with an option for a daytime or nighttime tour
Walking Tour of Hanoi Old Quarter
We have been to Vietnam multiple times and Hanoi is one of our all-time favorite places to visit in Vietnam.
The first time we visited Hanoi we tried to do a DIY walking tour, but it required so much research and planning on a map and we underestimated the distance of some points of interest so we sweating and had such sore feet.
So using a guide that knows best and has the perfect route and won’t get lost is highly recommended
We can confidently say that Hanoi is an absolute gem that has never failed to captivate us.
When it comes to the best walking tours in this vibrant city, this article is to guide you.
Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or new to the scene, we’ve curated a selection of the 7 most remarkable walking tours in Hanoi.
So, keep reading and embark on a journey through the enchanting Hanoi streets of this mesmerizing destination.
Quick Guide: Best Walking Tours in Hanoi
After a quick list of the top Hanoi walking tours? Here are the best tours:
3-hour Walking Tour of Hanoi Old Quarter
- Duration: approx 3 hours
- Type of Tour: Small-group tour max of 8 people
- Included: Option for daytime and nighttime tours for small groups of people with a free guide
Private Walking Tour of Hanoi City
- Duration: approx 3-4 hours
- Type of Tour: Private-group tour, flexible schedule
- Included: Free private tour guide and hotel pick-up within Hanoi
Small-Group Hanoi Street Food Tour
- Duration: approx 3 hours
- Type of Tour: Small-group tour, max of 8 people
- Included: Free private tour guide and hotel pick-up within Hanoi, food tasting, a bottle of water, coffee, or beer, and snacks
Best Walking Tours in Hanoi
Here is your guide to the best walking tours in Hanoi for travelers who would like to experience Hanoi. Your only task is to choose one!
1. Walking Tour of Hanoi Old Quarter
Tour Overview:
- Tour Type: Small-group tour with a maximum of 8 people. Option for a daytime or nighttime tour is available.
- Guest Rating: 4.7 Stars (Reviewed by over 120+ travelers)
- Tour Sights & Stops: 36 streets of Hanoi’s Old Quarter
- Departure Point: 31 Lò Sũ Street, Hoan Kiem district, Hanoi (In the center of the Old Quarter of Hanoi, close to the Water Puppet Theater).
- Length: approx 3 hours
- Check Tour Price on Get Your Guide
Enjoy a delightful journey through the captivating streets of Hanoi’s Old Quarter with this specialized walking tour.
Accompanied by a knowledgeable guide, lose yourself in the charm of the 36 distinctive streets, each known for its historic trades such as blacksmiths, silver shops, paper shops, headstone makers, silk traders, and jewelers.
Satisfy your taste buds with authentic Vietnamese culinary experiences, savoring delectable local cuisine, delightful desserts, and refreshing drinks as you walk Hanoi’s busy streets.
Stop to shop at the vibrant local markets, artisans, and silk shops. Relax with a drink at bars, cafes, and clubs.
Whether you prefer a daytime stroll or a nighttime adventure, this tour offers both options to suit your preference.
We had Ha as our guide and he was very knowledgeable and interesting.
He explained a lot about Vietnamese culture and its history so we learned a lot.
There was just the two of us so it felt more like a private tour which was even better.
I am vegetarian and the tour catered for me easily enough.
I was a bit apprehensive about the food but it was all very tasty. Highly recommended.
Colette – United Kingdom (Read More Reviews on Get Your Guide) ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Important Note:
– Pets are not allowed.
– Smoking is prohibited.
Why You Will Love This Tour:
- Dig into a diverse array of local cuisines available and explore the tales behind each dish.
- Discover the captivating charm of Hanoi’s Old Quarter, where the 36 streets intertwine, and learn about its fascinating historical trades.
- Join in the joy of shopping alongside the locals.
Uncover the rich history and captivating tales of Hanoi’s Old Quarter, as the small-group tour, limited to only 8 individuals, ensures an engaging and personalized experience.
Get ready for a journey that will leave you with treasured memories and a profound appreciation for the heart and soul of Hanoi.
2. Private Walking Tour of Hanoi City
Tour Overview:
- Tour Type: It is a 3-4 hours flexible schedule, a student-led walking tour of the city. This is a private tour for you and your group
- Guest Rating: 5 Stars (Reviewed by over 300+ travelers)
- Tour Sights & Stops: Visit several places, like Hoan Kiem Lake, Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, The Temple of Literature and National University, Hoa Lo Prison, and the Vietnam National Museum of History
- Departure Point: guides will pick you up at your desired pick-up point (Hanoi Old Quarter only)
- Length: approx 3-4 hours
- Check Tour Price on Viator
Experience the charm of Hanoi City with a private walking tour, tailor-made for those who wish to explore the city at their own pace.
The local tour guide will pick you up and ensure a flexible schedule that suits your preferences.
You’ll visit several places and the guide will explain the history of them.
The first destination will be the iconic Hoan Kiem Lake, known as the heart of Hanoi.
Here, you’ll have the opportunity to witness local activities.
Next, make your way to the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum Complex.
This serene zone boasts the lush botanical garden of Hanoi, magnificent monuments, solemn memorials, and stunning pagodas.
Then, explore the Temple of Literature, the place that has witnessed the graduation of countless doctors and is now transformed into a memorial dedicated to the pursuit of education and literature.
Afterward, venture to Hoa Lo Prison (Hanoi Hilton) where the majority of exhibits at the prison center around its utilization until the mid-1950s.
Lastly, the Vietnam National Museum of History.
The museum houses over 200,000 relics and artifacts that span Vietnamese history from prehistoric times to the present.
Among these are the 18 officially recognized Vietnam’s national treasures.
The students came to our Airbnb to meet us and were just lovely.
Our walking tour lasted about 4 hours stopping by the old prison, stopping at a cafe to try egg coffee, walked around the Old
Quarter, visited the church and we were able to experience a bit of the night local market around the lake.
The cost is nominal and well worth it
Jeannie_S (Read More Reviews on Viator) ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Important Note:
– Free private tour guide.
– Free Hotel pickup (Hanoi Old Quarter only)
– Entrance ticket not included.
Why You Will Love This Tour:
- Private tour just for you and your group and the schedule is flexible.
- Free student-tour guide for your group.
- Explore numerous historical treasures and culturally significant sites.
Discover the beauty of Hanoi City with a private walking tour exclusive to your group.
The tours offer the unique opportunity to explore the city’s highlights accompanied by a knowledgeable student-tour guide in a flexible and customizable schedule.
Immerse yourself in the vibrant ambiance and captivating sights, creating lasting memories of Hanoi’s unique charm.
3. Hanoi Evening Walking Tour
Tour Overview:
- Tour Type: 2-4 hours private evening customizable tour of Hanoi that ensures a fully personalized experience.
- Guest Rating: 5 Stars (Reviewed by over 40+ travelers)
- Tour Sights & Stops: Ancient House, Lake of the Restored Sword (Hoan Kiem Lake), Night Market, Thang Long Water Puppet (optional), Phung Hung Mural Street (optional)
- Departure Point: Lý Thái Tổ Monument or guides will pick you up at your desired pick-up point (Hanoi Old Quarter only)
- Length: approx 2-4 hours
- Check Tour Price on Viator
Discover Hanoi on a personalized evening walking tour that offers an enchanting experience tailored to your preferences.
Explore the vibrant city at your own pace with a private and fully customizable itinerary.
Begin with a convenient pickup from your Old Quarter hotel before going on a journey through must-see attractions such as the Ancient House where you can see the sophisticated charm of a Vietnamese traditional house, Hoan Kiem Lake (the heart of Hanoi), and Mural Street.
If you visit on the weekends, you can enjoy yourself in a lively night market roadside stalls, and local food vendors that attract large crowds of both locals and tourists.
Alternatively, consider indulging in a mesmerizing water puppet show (at your own expense).
We had a wonderful time hanging out with Linh, who showed us around some nice local restaurant, the train tracks and the puppet show.
She also gave us some tips of things to see in Hanoi and Vietnam.
Note that this is a volunteer experience, not a professional guide, and you get to spend time learning from locals and discovering a more authentic part of town.
YuLan_S (Read More Reviews on Viator) ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Important Note:
– Free private tour guide
– Includes free pickup and drop-offs from Old Quarter Hotel only
– Watch the water puppet show at your own cost
Why You Will Love This Tour:
- Private tour just for you and your group and the itinerary is fully customizable.
- Free student-tour guide for your group.
- You can get to enjoy Hanoi even at night.
Experience the ultimate flexibility with the personalized evening Hanoi walking tour.
Tailor-made for you and your group, this tour offers free guidance as you uncover the enchanting beauty of Hanoi at night perfect for newcomers and individuals with limited time.
Indulge in the freedom to explore and make the most of your travel adventure.
4. Half Day Hanoi City – Old Quarter
Tour Overview:
- Tour Type: Half-day sightseeing journey through the enchanting Old Quarter, led by knowledgeable student tour guides.
- Guest Rating: 5 Stars (Reviewed by over 460+ travelers)
- Tour Sights & Stops: Hoan Kiem Lake, Thap Rua Tower, Dong Xuan Market, Bach Ma Temple, Ancient House, Long Bien Bridge,
Train Street, Old Quarter, Den Quan De, Ba Dinh Square, Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, Hanoi Opera House, St. Joseph’s Cathedral, Hoa Lo Prison, Temple of Literature & National University,
Vietnam Museum of Ethnology, Vietnamese Women’s Museum - Departure Point: Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre or guides will pick you up at your desired pick-up point (Hanoi Old Quarter only)
- Length: approx 3-11 hours
- Check Tour Price on Viator
Want to experience the local life in the best of Hanoi in just half a day? Join this walking tour through the captivating Old Quarter, guided by a local expert.
Immerse yourself in the hustle and bustle as you explore the vibrant streets, and visit the largest indoor market with a multitude of goods, from fresh produce to souvenirs, clothing, and even electronics.
Marvel at the architectural wonders of churches, museums, and old temples.
Step inside a traditional Vietnamese house and witness its charm.
Wander down Hanoi’s iconic ‘Train Street’ or walk through the charming residential lanes.
And to top it all off, indulge in the rich and delightful local delicacy – the famous egg coffee.
Join this walking tour for an unforgettable adventure in the heart of Hanoi’s Old Quarter.
Our guide, Choung, was well well versed about the local sites we visited.
He was engaging and provided us with many interesting facts and history about the places we visited.
This tour is a must do for any visitor to Hanoi – you get to see and hear about several cultural and political points of interest as well as the history of Vietnam.
The tour operator ensured that we were picked up and dropped off on time… It’s a great way to a stay in Hanoi!
Danny (Read More Reviews on Viator) ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Important Note:
– Free private tour guide
– Includes free pickup and drop-offs from Old Quarter Hotel only.
– Admission tickets to some places are not included.
– The tour participant is responsible for covering the guide(s)’ entrance fees.
Why You Will Love This Tour:
- Experience the vibrant city of Hanoi and numerous destinations to explore on a single-day tour.
- There is a wide array of delectable local cuisines to indulge in.
- Experience exploring Hanoi’s largest indoor market.
Discover the wonders of Hanoi with this half-day city tour, offering a multitude of destinations to explore in just a single day.
Enjoy the expertise of a knowledgeable student guide, who will lead your group through the captivating sights and sounds of the city.
Experience the essence of Hanoi on this unforgettable walking tour.
5. Small-Group Hanoi Street Food Tour
Tour Overview:
- Tour Type: 3-hour small group tour/activity with a maximum of 8 travelers. Guided by an expert, savor the finest street food Hanoi has to offer.
- Guest Rating: 5 Stars (Reviewed by over 2000+ travelers)
- Tour Sights & Stops: Old Quarter, pass by Hoan Kiem Lake Walking Street and Hoan Kiem Lake
- Departure Point: Craft Viet Shop, 41 Luong Van Can St, or guides will pick you up at your desired pick-up point (Hanoi Old Quarter only)
- Length: approx 3 hours
- Check Tour Price on Viator
Uncover the delightful adventure of indulging in Hanoi’s renowned street food scene with the small group Hanoi street food tour.
Experience the guided culinary journey through bustling streets, savoring the very best street food gems the city has to offer.
Select two departure times to accommodate your schedule.
Each day, the menu rotates, ensuring a diverse selection of delectable options that represent the true essence of Hanoi’s delicious cuisine.
While the specific tastings may vary, be prepared for a captivating and ever-changing assortment.
Get ready to delve into the vibrant realm of Hanoi’s street food culture in an engaging and immersive experience.
We did this tour during our first day in Hanoi and it’s been seriously the best food tour ever.
The food was incredible, every single one of them, and in places where we would have never tried without a local taking us there.
But what made this so special was our tour guide/foodie, Patrick.
He was amazing company for those 3 hours, sharing with us his culture in a very dear way, and showing us some hidden gems on the way to the restaurants.
We would do this a thousand times over. Loved it!
Miriam_H (Read More Reviews on Viator) ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Important Note:
– Includes free pickup and drop-offs from Old Quarter Hotel only.
– Indicate if you have any food allergies or special requests.
– Vegetarian, Vegan, Kosher, and Gluten-Free options are available, advise at the time of booking.
Why You Will Love This Tour:
- Choose two departure times that perfectly align with your schedule.
- Experience the delectable delights of Hanoi street food, even with limited time.
- A variety of dietary options is available to accommodate different preferences and needs such as vegetarian, vegan, kosher, and gluten-free.
Join a small-group Hanoi street food tour and let an expert guide lead you through the bustling narrow streets.
Uncover the hidden treasures of street food in a limited timeframe.
Perfect for those eager to experience the vibrant street food scene in Hanoi.
6. Private Hanoi Street Food Walking Tour
Tour Overview:
- Tour Type: 3-hour private walking tour with a personal foodie guide
- Guest Rating: 5 Stars (Reviewed by over 500+ travelers)
- Tour Sights & Stops: Cernobbio, Moltrasio, Torno, Blevio, and the magnificent Villas.
- Departure Point: Craft Viet Shop, 41 Luong Van Can St or guides will pick you up at your desired pick-up point (Hanoi Old Quarter only)
- Length: approx 3 hours
- Check Tour Price on Viator
Satiate yourself in the ultimate street food adventure with a private Hanoi street food walking tour.
Get lost in the rich culture and history of Hanoi as you embark on a 3-hour exploration with your foodie guide.
Roam around the bustling streets packed with food vendors and savor the flavors of 10 different dishes at local food stands and family restaurants.
With a rotating menu, each day brings new and exciting culinary delights, which may include (but are not limited to) authentic delicacies.
And don’t forget to satisfy your taste buds with the renowned egg coffee of Hanoi at a charming café.
Chung was a fantastic guide and very friendly.
He took us to various different places that specialised in 1 particular dish that they did really well.
Some were in locations that we essentially would not have ventured to confidently by ourselves such as Pho Suong which was down a tiny backstreet and serves the best Pho.
Chung also took us to Cafe Giang where egg coffee was originally made and is still run by the family.
We were absolutely stuffed by the end of the tour and would wholeheartedly recommend this as an introduction to Vietnamese Street food to anyone visiting Hanoi for the first time for the food, friendliness of the guide and the tips on how to eat each dish as well (invaluable 😀).
Michele_B (Read More Reviews on Viator) ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Important Note:
– Lunch or dinner (depending on the selected option) is included.
– Free local guide.
– Includes free pickup and drop-offs from Old Quarter Hotel only.
Why You Will Love This Tour:
- Experience the delectable delights of Hanoi street food, even with limited time.
- A variety of dietary options is available to accommodate different preferences and needs such as vegetarian, vegan, kosher, and gluten-free.
- This is an exclusive tour or activity in which only your group will have the privilege to participate.
Discover the unique experience of a private Hanoi street food walking tour.
With a private foodie guide leading the way, this tour offers an intimate and personalized adventure.
Sampling delectable dishes as you explore the hidden gems of Hanoi’s streets.
Expand your palate and create unforgettable memories as you delve into the flavors and culture of this captivating city.
7. Hanoi City Half-Day Private Tour
Tour Overview:
- Tour Type: Small-group flexible 9-10 hour private tour of the highlights of Hanoi City
- Guest Rating: 5 Stars (Reviewed by over 10+ travelers)
- Tour Sights & Stops: Hanoi Old Quarter Culture Exchange Center, Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, Presidential Palace Historical Site, Ho Chi Minh’s Stilt House, One Pillar Pagoda, Temple of Literature & National University, Vietnam Museum of Ethnology, St. Joseph’s Cathedral, Dong Xuan Market, Train Street, Hanoi Opera House
- Departure Point: Guides will pick you up at your desired meeting point or requested pick-up point (hotels within Hanoi only)
- Length: approx 9-10 hours
- Check Tour Price on Viator
Experience all the captivating highlights of Hanoi city on a private half-day tour.
Immerse yourself in the enchanting charm of the Hanoi Old Quarter, with its bustling streets and rich cultural heritage.
As you explore, you’ll pass by the elegant French colonial architecture of the French Quarter that adds a touch of grandeur to the cityscape.
Take in the serenity of the peaceful lakes and visit traditional pagodas, churches, and temples, each telling its own story of Vietnam’s religious and cultural diversity.
See the most visited and must-see attractions in Hanoi like the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum in Ba Dinh Square, the final resting place of Ho Chi Minh (the most iconic and popular leader of Vietnam) and Ho Chi Minh’s Stilt House, the living and working place of President Ho Chi Minh.
Other must-see famous local attractions are the Vietnam Museum and Train Street or the narrow alley in Hanoi’s Old Quarter where almost the entire space of “train street” is occupied by the railroad tracks.
We searched online and decided book this Hanoi Full Day Private Tour with Paradise Indochina Travel because we saw so good recommendations though reviews.
My family was so happy with the tour. It was out of our expectations.
The guide was so informative, professional and the itinerary is also nice, covering all places we love to see, especially the TRAIN STREET.
Our driver was so friendly too. Everything was perfect.
I really recommended!
A Tripadvisor Reviewer (Read More Reviews on Viator) ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Important Note:
– The Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum is open only in the morning and remains closed every Monday and Friday.
– To pay respects at the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, it is required for all visitors to dress modestly (no shorts, sleeveless shirts, and miniskirts). Please ensure that shorts are worn at knee length.
– Visitors’ shoulders must be covered by scarfs when visiting the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum
– The mausoleum is closed usually from October onwards.
– The Ethnology Museum is closed on Mondays and Fridays; therefore, during these days, visitors can explore the Hoa Lo Prison instead.
– Admission fees and sightseeing expenses are already covered.
– Free hotel pick-up and drop-off. The pick-up time is 8:30 AM (or depends on your preference)
Why You Will Love This Tour:
- With the limited time you have, you can uncover the remarkable highlights and hidden gems of beautiful Hanoi.
- Enjoy the ultimate flexibility in your private tour or activity, where exclusivity is guaranteed, ensuring a personalized and intimate experience.
- You have two options: either head directly to your preferred meeting point or request a pickup at your hotel.
Discover the wonders of Hanoi City on a captivating half-day private tour.
Explore the city’s highlights and delve into its hidden corners, all within a limited timeframe.
With flexibility in departure time and the convenience of complimentary hotel pickup and drop-off, this tour is perfect for travelers seeking to experience the absolute best of Hanoi.
A delightful mix of history, tradition, and stunning landmarks, this engaging tour showcases the very best of Hanoi’s vibrant city life.
FAQs About the Best Walking Tours in Hanoi
Here are some answers to some of the most commonly asked questions about the best walking tours in Hanoi.
Certainly! Exploring Hanoi by foot is the ideal way to experience its allure.
The charm of the capital city can be discovered at every turn, with its enchanting narrow alleys, picturesque tree-lined boulevards, and captivating lakes.
For exploring Hanoi, walking is a fantastic option as it allows you to discover every corner of the city.
Another brilliant idea is to ride a bicycle around West Lake. For sightseeing, cyclos are predominantly used.
However, the most popular means of transportation in Hanoi is motorcycles. Additionally, motorcycle taxis offer great flexibility..
Discover the best sights on a walking tour of Hanoi!
Explore iconic landmarks like Ba Dinh Square, Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, Lenin Monument, National Museum of Fine Arts, Temple of Literature, Presidential Palace, and St. Joseph’s Cathedral.
All these attractions are within walking distance. Don’t miss the vibrant Dong Xuan Market, the elegant Opera House, and the scenic Hoan Kiem Lake.
Make sure to soak in the breathtaking views from Turtle Tower and the Temple of Jade Mountain. And don’t forget to visit the renowned Museum of the Vietnamese Revolution, a must-see in Hanoi!
For a more enriching and convenient experience in Hanoi, it is highly recommended to opt for a certified tour guide.
Investing in the services of a Vietnamese tour guide not only enhances your exploration of the country but also saves you valuable time, money, and hassle.
This is particularly beneficial when visiting bustling cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City.
To ensure cultural respect and personal comfort, it is advisable to adhere to modest clothing standards during a walking tour in Hanoi.
This entails wearing garments that cover your shoulders and knees, especially when visiting pagodas and religious sites.
Dress codes tend to be more conservative outside major cities, so adopting this practice is highly recommended.
Final Thoughts on the Best Walking Tours in Hanoi
In conclusion, if you’re a traveler eager to explore the enchanting city of Hanoi, don’t miss out on the opportunity to embark on these three remarkable walking tours: the walking tour of Hanoi Old Quarter, the private walking tour of Hanoi City, and the small group Hanoi street food tour.
These great experiences will allow you to discover the hidden gems of Hanoi while indulging in its rich culinary delights.
Please keep in mind that there are a few key things to know before embarking on your visit to Vietnam.
Once you’re armed with this knowledge, you can effortlessly pack your bags, slip into your comfy walking shoes, and prepare yourself for an extraordinary adventure in Hanoi and beyond!
But wait, there’s more! Besides Hanoi, Vietnam has plenty of breathtaking destinations waiting to be explored.
Check out our article on the best places to visit in Vietnam to uncover more extraordinary spots.
And be sure to dive into our next post titled, best things to do in Vietnam during your next trip, where we reveal even more unforgettable experiences that will make your journey through Vietnam truly unforgettable.
May your journey through one of Asia’s enchantingly beautiful countries be filled with experiences beyond compare!
🏆 BEST WALKING TOURS IN HANOI
Don’t have time to read the whole article? The best choice is this small-group tour with an option for a daytime or nighttime tour
Walking Tour of Hanoi Old Quarter
More Articles to Help You Plan Your Trip to Vietnam:
Is this your first time going to Vietnam? Check out our First-timers guide to Vietnam and prep yourselves the right way.
Our article on the Absolute best Vietnam Tour Packages will have you covered for other things that you might want to do on an organized tour whilst in Vietnam.
Check out our post on the Must have top 10 Vietnam travel essentials and make your travels through this amazing country that much easier.
You might also be interested in reading a few of the most Popular Books about Vietnam.
Check out Bac Ha Markets. Yes, these markets are in Sapa. So, if you are venturing out to Sapa, make sure to put this one on the list.
Find out what to take for your trip on our What to Pack for Vietnam travel guide here.
And for everything else about planning your adventure, take a look at our article on How to plan a trip to Vietnam.
