20 Things to Do in Hanoi
Hanoi, Vietnam’s captivating capital, swirls with energy, ancient history, French colonial charm, and incredible street food, often leading visitors to think exploring it requires significant funds. Yet, discovering the soul of this thousand-year-old city is surprisingly affordable, with numerous fantastic free things to do in Hanoi available. Budget-conscious travelers can easily find ways of exploring Hanoi without spending much, uncovering free attractions in Hanoi that showcase its unique culture and beauty, making exploring Hanoi on a budget a delightful reality.
This guide points you towards 20 specific activities and sights you can enjoy entirely free of charge. From tranquil lakes and historic quarters to iconic landmarks and cultural observations, you can craft a memorable Hanoian experience without opening your wallet. Get ready to dive into the vibrant spirit of Hanoi, absolutely free.
Lakeside Charm and City Views
Walk Around Hoan Kiem Lake: Stroll the picturesque pathway encircling the legendary Lake of the Returned Sword, right in the heart of Hanoi. Enjoy the views, watch locals relax, and soak up the central atmosphere day or night.
Admire Ngoc Son Temple Exterior: View the charming Temple of the Jade Mountain located on a small island in Hoan Kiem Lake. Admiring the iconic red Huc Bridge leading to it from the lakeside offers a beautiful photo opportunity without the small bridge crossing fee.
Watch Morning Exercises: Rise early and head to Hoan Kiem Lake or nearby parks like Lenin Park. Observe groups of locals practicing Tai Chi, aerobics, or line dancing – a fascinating glimpse into daily Hanoian life.
Stroll Around West Lake (Ho Tay): Explore the shoreline pathways around Hanoi’s largest freshwater lake. Enjoy the expansive water views, see lakeside temples from afar, and experience a more relaxed pace compared to the Old Quarter.
Walk Across Long Bien Bridge: Take a walk along the pedestrian path of this historic cantilever bridge designed by Gustave Eiffel’s company. Experience its rustic charm, watch trains pass, and enjoy views over the Red River and surrounding farmland – a truly atmospheric stroll.
Exploring the Historic Old Quarter
Wander the Old Quarter Streets: Get lost exploring the maze-like network of 36 ancient streets in Hanoi’s Old Quarter. Each street historically specialized in a particular trade, and observing the bustling activity and narrow shophouses is free entertainment.
Window Shop in the Old Quarter: Browse the incredible variety of goods spillings out from the tiny shops lining the Old Quarter streets. From silk and lanterns to spices and souvenirs, enjoy the visual feast without needing to buy.
Visit Dong Xuan Market (Browsing): Experience the atmosphere of Hanoi’s largest indoor market located on the edge of the Old Quarter. Browse the ground floor selling food, produce, and household items for an authentic local market feel.
See Bach Ma Temple Exterior: View the outside of what is considered Hanoi’s oldest temple, located within the Old Quarter. Admire the traditional architecture and its historical significance from the street.
Admire the Hanoi Ceramic Mosaic Mural: Walk or drive along sections of the massive ceramic mosaic mural decorating the Red River dike system. This huge public art project depicts scenes from Vietnamese history and culture.
Iconic Landmarks and Architecture
View Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum Exterior: Visit Ba Dinh Square and see the imposing granite structure housing the embalmed body of Ho Chi Minh. Admiring the building from the outside and observing the changing of the guard ceremonies (check times) is free.
Explore Ba Dinh Square: Stand in the vast square where Ho Chi Minh declared Vietnam’s independence in 1945. It’s a significant historical space flanked by important government buildings and the Mausoleum.
See the Presidential Palace Exterior: Admire the grand French colonial architecture of the Presidential Palace located near the Mausoleum within the complex. Viewing its striking yellow facade and ornate gates from the designated areas is free.
Visit the One Pillar Pagoda Grounds: See the unique structure of this historic Buddhist temple built on a single stone pillar resembling a lotus flower. Exploring the small grounds around the pagoda is free of charge.
Admire St. Joseph’s Cathedral Exterior: Gaze at the impressive neo-Gothic architecture of Hanoi’s oldest church, reminiscent of Notre Dame in Paris. Located near Hoan Kiem Lake, its twin bell towers are a city landmark.
Explore the French Quarter Architecture: Wander the wide, tree-lined streets south and east of Hoan Kiem Lake. Admire the beautiful colonial-era villas, government buildings, and grand hotels showcasing French architectural influence.
See the Hanoi Opera House Exterior: Marvel at the stunning French colonial architecture of this grand opera house, modeled after the Palais Garnier in Paris. Located near the August Revolution Square, its facade is worth admiring.
Temples, Pagodas, and Parks
Visit Tran Quoc Pagoda Grounds: Explore the peaceful grounds of Hanoi’s oldest Buddhist temple, situated on a small island in West Lake. Admire the tall stupa and enjoy the serene lakeside setting; entry to the grounds is free.
Relax in Lenin Park (Thong Nhat Park): Escape the city bustle in this large public park featuring lakes, walking paths, and recreational spaces. Enjoy watching locals exercise, relax, or play games in this green oasis.
Observe Hanoi Street Life & Traffic: Find a streetside cafe (just watch from the sidewalk for free) or a bench near a busy intersection. Observing the seemingly chaotic yet functional flow of motorbikes and daily life is a quintessential Hanoi experience.
