food trip hanoi

Top 20 Must-Try Dishes in Hanoi – What food is Hanoi famous for?

What food is hanoi famous for top 20 best foods in hanoi.

Hanoi cuisine is without a doubt one of the most diverse and unique in Asia and the world, with the blend of different flavors ranging from sweet to sour to spicy, and fresh herbs creating culinary harmony in your mouth.

Here are the top 20 dishes you MUST try as a tourist in Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam.

Table of Contents

Delicious Food for breakfast in Hanoi Old Quarter

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• Top 21 Incredible Day Trips from Hanoi – Best Ideal for A Weekend Day Trips from Hanoi
• 32 Amazing Things to do in Hanoi – You Should Not Miss

Pho Bo – Beef rice noodle soup

• Beef noodle soup is an iconic Vietnamese dish that is well-known throughout the world. Few broths taste like beef noodle soup, so a bowl of pho is one of those dishes you won’t soon forget. The broth is made from beef bones and simmered for many hours before being flavored with green onions and herbs.
• Vietnamese cuisine makes excellent use of herbs, particularly in dishes like pho. Taste the greatest version of this distinctive dish in Hanoi’s Old Quarter, which is also a popular street food.

Recommended some places to enjoy in Hanoi:

• Pho Gia Truyen Bat Dan – Address: 49 Bat Dan Str, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi
• Pho Suong – Address: 24 Trung Yen Lane, Hoan Kiem Dist, Hanoi
• Pho Vui – Address: 25 Hang Giay Str, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi
• Pho 10 Ly Quoc Su – Address: 10 Ly Quoc Su tr, Hang Trong Ward, Hanoi
• Phở bò Khôi Hói- Address: 50C Hang Vai Str, Hanoi

Pho Ga – Chicken Noodle Soup

• Apart from beef Pho, Hanoi chicken noodle soup contributes considerably to the quintessential Vietnamese cuisine. The golden pieces of tender chicken with the aroma of onions and ginger spread, making everyone fall in love. Each location offers a unique experience, but none more so than Hanoi.
• Phở gà Hàng Hòm – Address: 15C Hang Hom Str, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi
• Phở Gà Hàng Điếu – Address: 01 Hang Dieu Str, Hanoi
• Phở Gà Nguyệt – Address: 5B Phu Doan Str, Hoan Kiem Dist, Hanoi

Bun Rieu Cua – Crab noodle soup with Hanoi Freshwater Crab flavor

• A crab noodle soup consists of aromatic tomato soup, round rice noodles, and pounded crab meat, deep-fried tofu, and sometimes blood curd. The wonderful shrimp paste is also given separately to add extra flavor to your liking. The last touches to a wonderful breakfast dish are chili and fresh herbs.
• Bún Riêu – Hàng Bạc – Address: 11 Hang Bac Str, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi
• Trang – Bún Riêu Sườn Sụn – Address: 23 Nguyen Sieu Str, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi
• Bún Riêu – Hàng Lược – Address: 14 Hang Luoc Str, Hanoi
• Bún Riêu – Bát Đàn – Address: 25A Bat Dan Str, Hoan Kiem Dist, Hanoi

Banh mi – Vietnamese Sandwich

• Banh mi originated from France, but the Vietnamese have adapted it to our own. Vietnamese baguette made from a combination of flour and rice flour with a thin crispy crust.
• A loaf of banh mi can be stuffed with pork, pate, salted ham and a mixture of Vietnamese herbs like coriander, cucumber, carrot, radish, etc. depending on each region. With a crispy texture and a variety of textures, you’ll enjoy spicy, salty, sweet, and aromatic flavors in every bite.

Recommended places to eat in Hanoi:

• Bánh Mì 25 – Address: 25 Hang Ca Str, Hoan Kiem Dist, Hanoi
• Bánh Mì Phố – Address: 57C Dinh Tien Hoang Str, Hoan Kiem Dist, Hanoi
• Bánh mì Lãn Ông – Address: 20 Cha Ca Str, Hoan Kiem Dist, Hanoi

Banh Cuon – Vietnamese steamed rice rolls

• Banh Cuon, a sort of steamed rice flour roll, is a popular dish in Hanoi. Because of its inexpensive pricing and quick service, Banh Cuon is a popular breakfast meal among Hanoians. This dish served hot should be eaten immediately after cooking.
• Here, we’d like to recommend to visitors a list of the top 4 places to try the best Banh Cuon in Hanoi, which are highly rated by the capital’s gourmets.

Recommended place to eat in Hanoi:

• Bánh cuốn Bảo Khánh – Address: 14 Bao Khanh Str, Hoan Kiem Dist, Hanoi
• Bánh cuốn Phủ Lý – Address: 39 Dao Duy Tu Str, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi
• Bánh cuốn Phượng – Address: 68 Hang Cot Str, Hoan Kiem Dist, Hanoi
• Bánh cuốn gia truyền Thanh Vân – Address: 14 Hang Ga Str, Hoan Kiem Dis, Hanoi

Xoi Xeo – Vietnamese Sticky Rice with mung bean paste

• Xoi Xeo, or sweet sticky rice, is typically served with a filling of mung bean paste, soy sauce, and dried shallots, but you may also add pate, boiled chicken, Vietnamese sausage (Vietnamese ham), marinated pig belly, or eggs. Some restaurants also serve sweet sticky rice as dessert, topped with shredded coconut, roasted sesame and sugar
• Quán xôi Thái – Address: 37 Nguyen Sieu Str, Hoan Kiem Dist, Hanoi
• Xôi Cát Lâm – Address: 24B Duong Thanh Str, Hanoi
• Xôi Yến – Address: 35B Nguyen Huu Huan Str, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi

Bun Oc – Rice noodle soup with snails

• This small shop is easily found at No.11 Dong Xuan Market Alley. The snail noodle soup here is delicious; the crispy, lumpy snail dish with the warm, thick broth served with fresh herbs is a terrific choice for a chilly morning! The shop is extremely crowded, especially on weekends, so come early.
• Bún Ốc Thủy, Dong Xuan Market Alley
• Address: No.11, Dong Xuan Market Alley
• Opening hours: 7:30am – 5:30pm
• Reference price: 30,000 VND – 55,000 VND

Delicious dishes for lunch in Hanoi Old Quarter. What to eat for lunch in Hanoi Old Quarter?

Have a look at: 

• TOP Must-Visit Cafes in Hanoi Old Quarter
• Hanoi Old Quarter Food Tour – What to eat in Hanoi Old Quarter?

Hanoi Explore Travel will introduce you to a few eateries in Hanoi Old Quarter that serve distinctive lunch meals that both locals and visitors enjoy!

Bun cha – Rice noodles with grilled pork

• When President Obama first visited Hanoi, this was his favorite dish. It’s understandable given that this is one of the most tasty and outstanding dishes in Vietnamese cuisine. Bun Cha comes with a sweet and sour dipping sauce, grilled pork, white vermicelli, and fresh herbs.
• Bún Chả Que Tre – Address: 33 Hang Giay Str, Hoan Kiem Dist, Hanoi
• Bún Chả Ta – Address: 21 Nguyen Huu Huan, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi
• Bún Chả Hàng Quạt – Address: 74 Hang Quat, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi
• Bún Chả Đắc Kim – Address: 01 Hang Manh Str, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi
• Bún chả Cửa Đông – Address: 41 Cua Dong Str, Hoan Kiem Dist, Hanoi

Bun Bo Nam Bo – Southern beef noodle Salad

• This is a fresh dish with rice noodles and papaya salad, carrots, fresh herbs, sweet and sour fish sauce, and the dish’s highlight, marinated stir-fried beef with roasted peanuts and fried shallots. This dish is best served on hot days.
• To enjoy the dish, mix it up so that all of the flavors and ingredients mingle with tasty sweet and sour fish sauce, eat once but enough to make us remember forever.

Bach Phuong restaurant – Bun Bo Nam Bo

• Address: No.67 Hang Dieu street, Cua Dong Ward, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi
• Opening hours: 07:30 – 22:30
• Reference price: VND 30,000 – VND 70,000

Bun Bo Nam Bo – No. 7 Ta Hien, Hoan Kiem

• Address: No. 7 Ta Hien street, Hoan Kiem district, Hanoi
• Opening hours: 16:00 – 22:00
• Reference price: 35,000 VND – 75,000 VND

Cha ca – Hanoi grilled fish

• Cha Ca is a famous more-than-130-year-old dish in Hanoi, with its own street dedicated to it. Tourists can sample this cuisine at Cha Ca La Vong, the first establishment to open on Cha Ca street more than a century ago and one of Hanoi’s oldest restaurants. Cha Ca is served with vermicelli, scallions, herbs, and grilled catfish.
• Chả Cá Lã Vọng – Address: 14 Chả Cá, Hoàn Kiếm, Hà Nội
• Thăng Long Grilled Fish – Address: 21 – 31 Đường Thành, Cửa Đông, Hoàn Kiếm, Hà Nội
• Chả Cá Kinh Kỳ – Address: 43 Cửa Đông Str, Hoàn Kiếm, Hà Nội

Bun ca – Rice noodle soup with fish

• This is not a typical fish soup. Fish can be cooked in a variety of ways, but it always includes crispy fried fish or fresh fish slices, each of which adds a distinct flavor to the noodle soup. In addition to fish sauce, bean sprouts and a variety of additional toppings can be used to enhance the flavor of the dish. This is a specialty that demonstrates how diversified Hanoi food is.
• Bún Cá Chấm An Viên – Address: 48 Bat Dan Str, Hoan Kiem Dist, Hanoi
• Bún Cá Sâm Cây Si – Address: 05 Trung Yen Lane, Hoan Kiem Dist, Hanoi
• Bún Cá Thái bình – Address: 02 Hang Bai Str, Hoan Kiem Dist, Hanoi
• Bún Cá Hàng Đậu – Address: 42 Hang Dau Str, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi

Pho Cuon – Pho rolls

• Pho rolls are made from uncut Pho noodle sheets that are wrapped around beef and green herbs such as cilantro and basil. This dish is frequently served with a bowl of sweet and sour dipping sauce composed of fish sauce, sugar, vinegar, and chili.
• Phở cuốn Thanh Hằng Hà Nội – 29B Ngũ Xã, Trúc Bạch, Ba Đình, Hà Nội
• Phở cuốn 31 – 31 Ngũ Xã, P. Trúc Bạch, Quận Ba Đình, Hà Nội
• Phở cuốn Hưng Bền – 33 Ngũ Xã, Quận Ba Đình, Hà Nội

Nem rán – Deep Fried Vietnamese Spring Rolls

• Vietnamese-style spring rolls/spring rolls are a year-round dish that can be found on the menus of most Vietnamese restaurants. Spring roll ingredients vary by region, but typically include minced lean pork, sea crab or shrimp, wood-ear mushrooms, onions, duck/chicken eggs, pepper, salt, and spices. Apart from the traditional pork spring roll, you also can choose to try crab spring rolls
• Nem rán Hàng Quạt – 74 Hàng Quạt
• Nem thịt Hàng Bè – 21 Hàng Bè
• Nem Vuông: 37 Đào Duy Từ, Hoàn Kiếm, Hà Nội

Bun Thang – Rice noodle soup with chicken and egg

• Rice noodle soup with chicken and egg is a delicious dish that tourists to Hanoi Old Quarter should not miss. To make a delectable bowl of Bun Thang, the seller must be meticulous and knowledgeable about the steps. The aroma of simmering chicken, shrimp, onions, and shiitake mushrooms will be enhanced by the natural sweet broth stewed from bones. Each bowl of Bun Thang here is made with tender, gently scented chicken, green onions, and laksa leaves.

Bun Thang Ba Duc, Cau Go street

• Address: No.48, Cau Go street
• Opening hours: 18h00 – 22h00Reference price: 30.000VND – 55.000VND
• Bún thang Hàng Hành – 29 Hàng Hành, Hoàn kiếm, Hà nội
• Bún thang Thuận Lý – 33 Hàng Hòm, Hà Nội

>>> Enjoy all the above foods with Hanoi Street Food Tour by Local Guides

My Van Than – Wonton Noodles

• Wonton noodles are a wise choice when you’re out at night in the cold weather of Hanoi Old Quarter. In the Old Quarter, wonton noodles on Hang Chieu Street are a well-known treat that are frequently referenced. The noodles here are chewy with flavorful broth and the sweetness of stewed bones. Particularly, the shrimp dumplings at this location are quite rich because they were marinated using the shop’s unique recipe.

Phuong Beo – Hang Chieu street

• Address: No.9 Hang Chieu Street, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi
• Opening hours: 17h30 – 23h30
• Reference price: 40.000d – 80.000d

Delicious street food for dinner in Old Quarter Hanoi

You may like to read more:

• 20+ Best Things to Do in Hanoi Old Quarter | What to do, See & Eat
• What to do at night in Hanoi – Best Things To Do in Hanoi at night

Recommended dining options:

When visiting Hanoi Old Quarter at night, you can select from the following dependable, excellent, and reasonably-priced dining options:

BBQ Beef – At Bo Nuong Ma May

• Address: No.47 Ma May street, Hang Buom ward, Hoan Kiem district, Hanoi

Walking down Ma May street, you will easily come across a restaurant with a professional uniformed staff and the aroma of roasted beef chunks on the fire. The grilled items here are well-seasoned, and the portions are generous. The average price for a single person is between 100,000 VND and 150,000 VND.

Grilled chicken feet in Ngo Gach street

• Address: No.21, Ngo Gach Street, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi

When it comes to grilled chicken feet, individuals immediately think of Ly Van Phuc street. But, grilled chicken feet in Ngo Gach are also worth tasting. Chicken feet are well-seasoned and cooked only when customers order, ensuring that they are always hot. On average, each person will spend between 40,000 and 50,000 VND.

• Vietnamese Hot Pot is one of the most typical dishes served with soups and broths as part of Hanoi’s rich street food. Think of a steaming hot pot filled with everything from seafood to mushrooms and an abundance of vegetables.
• Hot pot has a lot of soup, as do most soups in Hanoi, and it’s seasoned with fish sauce and a touch of sweet and tart tamarind sauce. Hot pot is one example of a dish that demonstrates how Vietnamese people make the most of their fresh ingredients!
• Bếp Quán – Address: 12 Hàng Điếu, Quận Hoàn Kiếm, Hà Nội
• Lẩu Cầu Gỗ – Adress: 73 Cầu Gỗ, Quận Hoàn Kiếm, Hà Nội
• Quán Lẩu Thắng Béo – Address: 3B Ngõ Cấm Chỉ 202 Hàng Bông, Quận Hoàn Kiếm, Hà Nội
• Hải Sản Lẩu Cua – Address: 11 Lý Thái Tổ, Quận Hoàn Kiếm, Hà Nội
• Lạ Quán – Address: 6 Hàng Lược, Quận Hoàn Kiếm, Hà Nội

Mi Ga Tan – Mugwort chicken instant noodle soup – At Hang Bo street

Located at No.24 Hang Bo street, mugwort chicken instant noodle soup is a tasty delicacy worth eating in Hanoi Old Quarter. The broth is sweet but not harsh, and there is a lot of chicken meat in this dish.  Spices like jujube, herbs, and goji berries mix to create a Chinese medicine flavor paired with the bitter taste of wormwood, making a warm bowl of chicken noodles more delicious than ever.

• Address: No.24 Hang Bo street
• Opening Hours: 17h30 – 23h30
• Reference Price: 40.000VND – 80.000VND

Fried Sticky Rice – At Hang Dieu Street

• Address: 02 Hang Dieu street
• Opening Hours: 16.00pm – 23.30pm

There are several places in Hanoi that sell fried sticky rice, but the most popular is still sticky rice on Hang Dieu. White, round, aromatic, hot sticky rice is pulled from the boiling pot, compressed, and fried till golden brown on both sides.

Fried sticky rice is crispy on the outside and soft and aromatic on the inside. It is also served with spring rolls, braised eggs, sausages,… that all blend together to make customers want to return for more.

Addresses for snacks in Hanoi Old Quarter

What should you eat at night in Hanoi Old Quarter? Check out the delectable snacking addresses below and add them to your Old Quarter night trip plan!

Banh Xeo – Vietnamese Crepe

• This well-known snack, also known as Vietnamese crepe, is popular throughout the country. The thin rice flour is fried to perfection in a scorching hot skillet before being combined with a variety of ingredients such as shrimp, veggies, and herbs.
• These foods are already delicious, but dipping them in sweet and savory sauces elevates them to new heights. Vietnamese cuisine is dominated by sauces and dips. That’s what makes it so enjoyable to eat!
• Bánh xèo Sáu Phước – Address: 74 Cau Dat Str, Hoan Kiem Dist, Hanoi
• Nem Lụi, Bánh xèo cô Minh- Address: 12 Cua Dong Str, Hoan Kiem Dist, Hanoi
• Bánh xèo – Address: 22 Hang Bo Str, Hoan Kiem Dist, Hanoi

Nem Chua Ran – Fried fermented pork rolls in Tam Thuong alley

If you want to eat the delicious fried fermented pork rolls in Hanoi Old Quarter, go to Tam Thuong alley for lunch. This is a “heaven” of fried fermented pork rolls, with eateries close together. Moderately fried fermented pork rolls are served on a plate lined with banana leaves with side dishes such as cucumber and sweet and sour green mango.

You can come here for lunch because the shop is normally open all day!

• Address: No.36 Tam Thuong Alley, Hang Gai street
• Opening Hours: 8h00 – 23h00
• Preference price: 47.000VND

Trang Tien Ice Cream

Trang Tien ice cream should be tried once if you wish to enjoy ice cream in Hanoi Old Quarter. This is a popular and tasty snack in Hanoi’s Old Quarter. The ice cream here has a distinct rich, wonderful flavor that can’t be found anywhere else.

The taste of fragrant, refreshing, and sweet ice cream on the tip of the tongue will make you remember forever. The menu is likewise very diverse, but it is highly recommended that you taste the “special” fresh ice cream here!

• Address: No.35, Trang Tien street
• Opening Hours: 7h30 – 23h00
• Preference Price: 8.000 – 25.000 VND

Dried Beef Salad – At Nom Bo Kho Long Vi Dung

• Address: Hang Giay Street, Hang Buom Ward, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi
• Price: About 50.000 VND
• Opening Hours: 8h30 – 22h00
• Phone Number: 090 324 6384

When it comes to Hanoi’s excellent Old Quarter specialties, dried beef salad near Hoan Kiem Lake cannot be overlooked. Along Hoan Kiem street, you will see dried beef salad shops close together. However, the most delicious and well-known is the Long Vi Dung shop. A plate of dried beef salad here is perfectly sweet and sour with a lot of toppings.

Mixed Fruits – To Tich street

Trang Tien ice cream is famous in Hoan Kiem Lake, but To Tich is famed for its wonderful snacks from fruit. Numerous fresh fruits are mixed together to create a delectable snack in Hanoi’s Old Quarter that you should taste.

• Address: No.17, To Tich street
• Opening Hours: 9h30 – 22h30
• Preference Price: 20.000VND – 60.000VND

Xoi Che – Sticky rice sweet – At Xoi Che Ba Thin

Xoi Che Ba Thin has existed for nearly a century, starting from a street stall. This is a favorite long-standing shop for traditional sweet soup in Hanoi Old Quarter. With a diverse menu, many different types of sweet soups are available depending on the season. In the early autumn days, nothing beats a bowl of hot sweet soup with soft sticky rice and the delicate aroma of mung beans.

• Address: No.95 Hang Bo Street
• Preference Price: 15.000VND – 25.000VND

Fried dumplings – At Hang Bo street

Fried dumplings in Hang Bo is a should-not-miss dish when it comes to the delectable cuisine of Hanoi Old Quarter. The fried dumpling here is well-known for its generous fillings and sweet and sour sauce. Small dumplings just eaten, cheap pricing, only 9,000 VND for ten little and lovely dumplings.

• Address: No.57, Hang Bo Street, Hoan Kiem District
• Opening Hours: 15h00 – 18h00
• Preference Price: 25.000VND – 55.000VND

Mixed rice paper – Banh Trang Tron Co Toan

Mixed rice paper is a popular snack in Hanoi Old Quarter. The rice paper’s sauce here is just right, neither too sweet nor spicy. Peanuts, onions, laksa leaves, and quail eggs are combined with a delicious flavor. If you like junk food, don’t miss out on this delectable snack when you go for a stroll in Hanoi Old Quarter!

• Address: No.86, Hang Trong Street
• Opening Hours: 19h00 – 23h00
• Preference Price: 20.000VND – 25.000VND

Sweet soup – Che Bon Mua – Hang Can Street

The shop offers a diverse menu for customers to pick from, and the menu changes based on the season. The traditional taste of sweet soup, pure and not overly sweet, is what makes people fall in love. This is undoubtedly a trustworthy snacking location in Hanoi’s Old Quarter.

• Address: No.4, Hang Can Street, Hoan Kiem District
• Opening Hours: 10h00 – 23h00
• Preference Price: 15.000VND – 22.000VND

FAQs about Hanoi Old Quarter

How many streets are there in hanoi old quarter.

Hanoi Old Quarter nowadays consists of 76 streets divided into 10 wards, and preserves many cultural aspects of crafts. This neighborhood’s old streets include Hang Bong Street, Hang Bac Street, Hang Dao Street, Hang Ma Street, Hang Quat Street, Hang Buom Street, Hang Thiec Street, and Ma May Street.

What to visit in Hanoi Old Quarter?

This list includes 7 places to visit inside and outside the Old Quarter, which are Hoan Kiem Lake, Ta Hien Beer Street, Ma May Ancient House, Dong Xuan Market, Bach Ma Temple and Quan Chuong Gate.

The list above is the Top 20 delicious foods in Hanoi Old Quarter that Hanoi Explore would like to share with you. We hope you don’t miss any dishes on your trip to the Old Quarter.

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Top 5 Hanoi Food Tour: Discover Vietnam’s Culinary Capital

LOOKING FOR A HANOI FOOD TOUR?

You’ve come to the right place — as we have traveled around Vietnam since 2015!

Welcome to Hanoi, the culinary heart of Vietnam ! This vibrant city has got your taste buds covered, with flavors so diverse, they’re as colorful and intricate as the city’s history.

Embarking on a food tour in Hanoi isn’t just about satisfying your stomach, though that’s a big part of it! It’s a journey – a delicious adventure where each bite tells a story of tradition, culture, and love for food. 

It’s a sensory experience that transcends beyond just ‘eating’, taking you deep into the heart of the city’s heritage.

When in Vietnam, particularly Hanoi, food is the ultimate ice breaker between locals and visitors. Engaging in food culture is a perfect way to peel back the layers of this exotic destination, revealing the rich tapestry of its history, its people, and the incredible blend of flavors that the city is known for. 

So, pull up a tiny plastic stool, pick up those chopsticks, and get ready for an unforgettable gastronomic journey! It’s time to experience the real Hanoi, one dish at a time!

The Heart of Vietnamese Cuisine

The Richness of Hanoi’s Food Culture

Have you ever stopped to think about the story behind that bowl of pho ? The depth of Hanoi’s food culture is as vast as the Red River flowing through it.

Hanoi’s culinary scene is like a living history book. Its diverse flavors are a reflection of the city’s past – marked by Chinese, French, and Southeast Asian influences. 

Each wave of influence has left a unique stamp on Hanoi’s food, transforming it into the flavorful feast that we relish today. 

From the hearty Pho that combines Chinese-style noodles with local spices, to the iconic Banh Mi sandwich which is a delicious blend of French baguette with Vietnamese fillings, Hanoi’s food is a beautiful fusion of cultures.

In the North, where Hanoi is located, the food is more traditional and subtle in flavors compared to the food in the southern and central regions. This variance makes dining in Hanoi a unique experience, as it allows you to taste a piece of Vietnam’s rich and layered food history.

Essential Ingredients in Hanoi Cuisine

Now, let’s take a closer look at the building blocks of Hanoi’s mouthwatering dishes. Rice and noodles form the backbone of most meals, providing a comforting base for a variety of toppings and sauces. 

But it’s the herbs and spices that truly make Hanoi’s food stand out. Imagine handfuls of fresh mint, cilantro, and basil that add a vibrant freshness to every dish. And don’t forget the piquant chillies, tangy lime, and the unmistakable fish sauce, that lend a distinct depth of flavor.

Then there’s the star of Hanoi’s food scene – the humble street-side BBQ . Grilled meats, especially pork, are marinated with traditional Vietnamese spices, resulting in succulent, smoky bites that will make your taste buds sing!

So, if you’re in Hanoi, get ready for a culinary journey that’s not just about tasting, but also about understanding the culture and history behind every bite. Because that’s what makes Hanoi’s food scene so very special.

Top 5 Best Food Tours in Hanoi

Embarking on a food tour in Hanoi is like stepping into a magical culinary maze, where each turn reveals a new flavor, a new aroma, and a new gastronomic delight. 

Here, we’ve curated the top 5 food tours in Hanoi, each offering a unique perspective of the city’s vibrant food culture:

1. Old Quarter Street Food Tour

⭐ Rating: 4.8 out of 5 |📌 Address: 47 P. Hang Bong, Hang Gai Ward, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi |💵 Check rates and availability

We had a wonderful tour with Dante, who was friendly and informative. He also took care to ask about dietary restrictions and order smaller portions to let us try many different things. Some of the things we tried: banh mi with pate and sausage, pho ga and dry pho, banh cuon (steamed rice noodle rolls), coconut ice cream with sticky rice, and egg coffee. Amanda, (Read more reviews)

Embarking on a food tour in Hanoi’s Old Quarter offers a delightful array of dishes, from spicy noodle soups to delectable sweet desserts, all while soaking in the vibrant ambiance of bustling food stalls. 

Alongside satisfying your palate, this tour enriches your understanding of the historic Old Quarter and its cultural landmarks under the guidance of a knowledgeable English-speaking guide, making it a perfect blend of culinary and cultural immersion.

2. Hanoi Evening Motorbike Street Food Tour

⭐ Rating: 4.9 out of 5 |📌 Address: 47 P. Hang Bong, Hang Gai Ward, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi |💵 Check rates and availability

Met with 4 enthusiastic, friendly & young Hanoian, Rachel, Austin, Martin and Bucky. Enjoyed the tour very much. Austin was especially knowledgeable. And we love the food that they introduced to us. 👍👍👍 Wai S. (Read more reviews)

Starting from your hotel in the Old Quarter, this tour takes you to key landmarks like the Ho Chi Minh Complex and West Lake before bringing you back to the heart of the city where you’ll meander through old streets, sampling renowned Vietnamese delicacies such as their world-class coffee, mixed fruits, and dried beef salad. 

This half-day tour from 8:00 AM – 12:00 NN or 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM promises a fulfilling experience for both your cultural curiosity and gastronomic desires!

3. Romantic Hanoi Sunrise/Sunset Vintage Minsk Motorbike Tour

⭐ Rating: 5 out of 5 |📌 Address: 3B Hang Tre Street, Ly Thai To, Hoan Kiem Ward, Hanoi |💵 Check rates and availability

It is great experience with a solo driver who can take you around the Hanoi in the morning. you can explore the Hanoi life in the early morning and can hunt the sunrise as well. Then, enjoy Pho and coffe after all. Thiện Tâm Tour Guide Mac K. (Read more reviews)

This comprehensive tour includes visits to key attractions like the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, Tran Quoc’s ancient Buddhist and Taoist temples, Temple of Literature, the French Quarter, Old Quarter, Hoan Kiem Lake, West Lake, Hanoi Opera House, and the Long Bien Bridge. 

Sunrise tour is from 6:00 AM to 9:00 AM and sunset tour is from 3:30 PM to 6:30 PM. 

The experience also features a taste of local cuisine with dishes like Vietnamese spring rolls, kebab rice noodles, and the legendary egg coffee.

4. Rose Kitchen Cooking Class with Local Market Tour in Ha Noi

⭐ Rating: 4.8 out of 5 |📌 Address: Ngoc Ha market: 52 Son Tay, Ha Noi |💵 Check rates and availability

The host Dana was very friendly, lively and explained a lot about the local market and some history of Hanoi through the cooking class. She also keep checking to ensure we are okay with the lesson and enjoying ourselves. She’s made the class a delight and joy to attend. Highly recommended! Xiao F. (Read more reviews)

Step into the rich tapestry of Vietnamese culture and cuisine with a unique cooking class and tour that blends education and exploration. 

Under the guidance of your instructor, unravel the secrets of creating wholesome Vietnamese dishes such as Bún Chả, Nem, and the beloved Vietnamese egg coffee and enjoy your handcrafted meals. 

Complete with complimentary wine tasting and round-trip transfers within the Old Quarter area, this tour provides an immersive, intimate glimpse into the heart of Vietnamese culinary traditions.

5. Hanoi Vegan Food Tour

⭐ Rating: 4.8 out of 5 |📌 Address: Craft Viet Shop, 41 Luong Van Can St., Hanoi |💵 Check rates and availability

AMAZING food and so much of it! I had a very authentic Vietnamese experience, going down alleys and stopping at places only locals would ever find. I was so grateful to be shown how to find vegan food and have a tour completely catered to me! I also had plenty of leftovers to take home with me! 🙂 Paige A. (Read more reviews)

Embrace the allure of Vietnamese street food, tailored to vegan preferences, with this insightful half-day tour through Hanoi’s Old Quarter. To enhance the enjoyment, bottled water, coffee, and beer are provided, and you can choose between an afternoon or an evening tour.

Must-Visit Food Spots in Hanoi

Here are some must-visit spots where you can embark on a memorable food tour based on Google reviews:

🔪 Tung’s Kitchen : 2 P. Hang Bong, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi

“We ordered the Vietnamese pancake and stir fried noodles, both vegetarian and they were great :-)”

🥕 Hoang Cuisine (Vietnamese Restaurant & Vegetarian Food) : 54 Hang Buom Street, Hang Buom Ward, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi

“I would highly recommend Hoang Cuisine to anyone looking for a top-notch Vietnamese dining experience. The food was outstanding, the service was exceptional, and the atmosphere was perfect for a cozy and relaxing dining experience.”

🍽️ Sen Trang An Vietnamese Restaurant : 43 P. Hang Be, Hang Bac, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi

“If you are looking for a very traditional, wholesome Vietnamese meal, this is the place to come! I had a vegan meal (the pork sausage) and my partner had a meat meal (bun cha) and both were amazing”

🍴 Poke Hanoi : 11B P. Hang Khay, Trang Tien, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi

“ I went with the spicy tuna and shrimp as well as all the toppings and it was phenomenal (190k dong per bowl). The fish was good quality and the sauce was just the right amount of spicy.”

🍹 Hương Việt Vietnamese Drink & Food : 13 P. Hang Ca, Hang Bo, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi

“ We ordered barbecue pork and vegetable with steamed rice, and fresh beef spring rolls, avocado smoothie, orange juice and lemon tea. The food is amazingly good!”

🫑 Madam Tran Restaurant & Cooking Class Best Vietnamese Restaurant & Vegan Foods : 42B P. Dao Duy Tu, Hang Buom, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi

“Great prices. We paid will less than $20AU for our meals (two mains and a side, plus a beer each) and couldn’t finish it all! Air con, polite and a dipping sauce that was lovely.”

🍜 Hong Hoai’s Restaurant : A gem in the heart of Hanoi, Hong Hoai’s serves a variety of Vietnamese dishes made from fresh, local ingredients.

Iconic Dishes to Try on Your Hanoi Food Tour

Pho, oh glorious Pho! Imagine this: you’re seated on a tiny stool at a street-side stall, steam rising from a bowl of soup in front of you.

You catch a whiff of the aroma – it’s rich and complex, a symphony of s immered beef bones, star anise, cloves, and cinnamon . Thin slices of tender beef or chicken adorn the top, while soft rice noodles swim below.

You take your first sip and boom – flavor explosion! This, folks, is Pho, Vietnam’s treasured noodle soup and Hanoi’s culinary icon.

Bun Cha is another Hanoi staple you simply must try! Picture grilled pork patties and belly served with a tangy dipping sauce, fresh herbs, and rice noodles .

It’s a harmonious balance of sweet, salty, and smoky flavors that dance on your palate.

Ah, the Banh Mi, a testament to the fusion of Vietnamese and French cuisines. Picture a crusty French baguette , sliced open and filled with layers of cold cuts , pickled veggies , coriander , chili , pâté , and a swipe of mayonnaise . Each bite delivers a delightful crunch and a burst of flavors that are surprisingly complex yet comforting.

These iconic dishes are the heart and soul of Hanoi cuisine. Savouring them is like stepping into the essence of Hanoi itself – rich, diverse, and undeniably delicious.

As you embark on your Hanoi food tour, let each bite tell you a story, and let the flavors of Hanoi become memories you’ll cherish long after your journey. Happy feasting!

An Immersive Experience: Hanoi Cooking Classes

The sizzle of a hot pan, the chop-chop-chop of the knife against a wooden board, the aroma of fresh herbs and spices in the air… that’s right, we’re diving into the delightful world of Hanoi cooking classes . Who says the fun ends after tasting the food? Let’s kick it up a notch!

Learning to cook local dishes isn’t just about filling your stomach (although that’s a great bonus!). It’s about experiencing the culture in the most hands-on way possible. It’s about understanding the locals’ love and respect for their ingredients, the time-honored techniques they employ, and the stories behind each dish.

You’ll come away not just with a belly full of good food, but also a deeper appreciation of Vietnamese culture, a new skill, and hey, maybe even some new friends!

Cultural Etiquette to Keep in Mind on Your Hanoi Food Tour

Oh, the excitement of trying out new foods and immersing yourself in a foreign culture! But let’s put on the brakes for just a second.

Remember, we’re guests in Hanoi, and it’s super important to be mindful of the local customs and manners. It’s not only polite, but it also enhances the authenticity of your experience. So, let’s dig into some do’s and don’ts for your Hanoi food tour!

🍜 Vietnamese Dining Norms and Expectations

You’re probably itching to slurp that Pho, right? Hold on, buddy! In Vietnamese culture, there’s a bit more to it. First, if you’re dining in a group, always wait for the elders to begin eating first . It’s a sign of respect. Oh, and about the chopsticks – never leave them sticking upright in your bowl; it’s considered bad luck.

And yes, slurping is totally okay ! It’s actually seen as a compliment to the chef. So, go ahead and make some noise!

📸 Respecting Local Customs during the Tour

Taking photos of your food is fine, but remember to be mindful of the people around you. Not everyone wants to be in your snapshot. Always ask for permission if you’re taking a picture that includes locals or other tourists. And if they say no, respect that.

Also, when you’re navigating through the bustling streets of Hanoi, it’s easy to get lost in the hustle and bustle. But remember to keep your voice down , especially in the early morning or late evening. Many people live right above the shops and restaurants in the Old Quarter, so let’s avoid waking them up!

Lastly, remember the golden rule of travel (and life in general): treat others the way you’d want to be treated. Show respect, be polite, and keep an open mind . You’re here to learn, explore, and enjoy!

Keep these tips in mind, and you’re set to have a culturally respectful and unforgettable food tour in Hanoi!

Practical Tips for Your Hanoi Food Tour

Embarking on a food tour in Hanoi is a guaranteed fun-filled adventure. To ensure that your journey is as smooth as possible, here are some handy tips and advice that’ll keep you one step ahead.

⏲️ Best Time to Go

When’s the best time to explore Hanoi’s food scene? Well, there isn’t a wrong time really! Hanoi has a tropical climate, which means it’s pretty warm all year round. However, for cooler weather, consider visiting between October and December when the temperatures are more moderate.

If you’re a fan of Pho (who isn’t?), consider an early morning tour. The locals believe it’s best served for breakfast. If you’re an evening owl, try the Bun Cha, usually enjoyed during lunchtime, or the street barbecues that pop up at dusk!

😋 Health and Safety

Hanoi’s street food is tantalizing, but do keep an eye out for hygiene . Stick to busy stalls where the food turnover is high – it’s a good indication the food is fresh. And don’t forget to stay hydrated ; carrying a bottle of water is always a smart idea.

If you have any dietary restrictions or allergies, make sure to let your tour guide know in advance. The good news is, Vietnamese cuisine is quite accommodating to various diets, with numerous vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options available.

🍴 Navigating the Hanoi Food Scene

Most locals in Hanoi are friendly and willing to help, even if there’s a language barrier. It helps to learn a few Vietnamese phrases though, such as ‘Cảm ơn’ (Thank you) and ‘Tôi muốn đặt…’ (I would like to order…).

In terms of currency, Vietnam uses the Vietnamese Dong (VND) . It’s useful to have some small bills for street food vendors. As for tipping, it’s not a common practice in Vietnam. However, if you feel the service was exceptional, feel free to leave a small tip .

And there you have it! With these practical tips, you’re ready to dive into the vibrant and diverse culinary scene of Hanoi. Happy tasting!

Frequently Asked Questions about Hanoi Food Tour

Is hanoi food tour worth it.

Absolutely! A food tour in Hanoi is a fantastic way to discover the city’s vibrant culture and history through its rich culinary scene. You get to taste diverse local Vietnamese food and have a fun night.

What food is Hanoi known for?

Hanoi is famous for a variety of dishes but most notably Pho (Vietnamese noodle soup), Bun Cha (grilled pork with rice noodles), Banh Mi (Vietnamese sandwich), and Ca Phe Trung (egg coffee). Make sure to also try the Banh Cuon (rice noodle roll), Banh Xeo (Vietnamese crepe), and the Xoi Xeo (sticky rice with mung bean).

Is street food popular in Hanoi?

Yes, street food is an integral part of Hanoi’s culture. Locals and tourists alike enjoy hundreds of street food sellers spread across the city. The city’s Old Quarter is particularly known for its bustling street food scene.

What are 5 popular street foods in Vietnam?

Some of the popular street foods in Vietnam include Pho (noodle soup), Bun Cha (grilled pork with rice noodles), Banh Mi (Vietnamese sandwich), Goi Cuon (spring rolls), and Banh Xeo (sizzling pancake).

All in all, embarking on a Hanoi food tour is a taste-bud tantalizing adventure that offers a unique perspective into the city’s rich history and culture. 

Whether you’re slurping down a comforting bowl of Pho, savoring a tangy Bun Cha, or mastering local recipes in a cooking class, the experiences you gain will surely add depth to your Vietnam travel stories. 

Pack your appetite and curiosity, and get ready for an unforgettable culinary journey in the heart of Hanoi!

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8 Best Food Tours in Hanoi With Local Guides 2023

This website contains no sponsored content. The content is written entirely on my own and is based on my personal experience and extensive research. This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, I may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Please read the  disclaimer  for more information.

Want help selecting the best food tours in Hanoi? I have got you covered! In this article, you will get information on the 10 best food tours and eating experiences of Hanoi all led by locals – so be assured of a great food experience without the risk of a tourist trap.

Don’t have time to read through the 10 Hanoi food tour options? No worries – Small-Group Hanoi Street Food Tour with a Real Foodie is the best Hanoi food tour with a smashing 5-star rating with over 1700 reviews!

My husband and I are crazy foodies and in our own different ways. My husband eats everything under the sun while I am a strict vegetarian. In fact, our research on traveling to any place begins with the food options there and we absolutely make it a point to try out local food on all our trips. In fact, we prefer starting off a new city adventure with a food tour as it’s the best way to directly connect with the soul of the city.

Plus because I am a vegetarian, it lets me figure out the availability of food options for those with dietary preferences while my husband gets to try the whole gamut of local food offerings!

In any case a win-win for you!

Let’s get started with exploring the best food tours in Hanoi – there are 8 on this list with brilliant ratings and offerings – so you can go ahead and book one right away!

#1 Top Pick

Small Group Hanoi Street Food Tour with a Real Foodie

⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️⭐️⭐️ Best walking street food tour in the Hanoi Old Quarter Taste bun cha, pho, banh mi, coffee, finger foods and dessert

Hanoi By Night Foodie Motorbike Tours

⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️⭐️⭐️ Experience the thrill of exploring Hanoi on a motorbike Taste the best Bun Cha, Pho, salty & sweet donuts and more

Private Hanoi Street Food Walking Tour With Real Foodie

⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️⭐️⭐️ Best private tour Enjoy tastings of pho, bun cha, spring roll, coffee and more + load yourself with a full meal

Best Food Tours in Hanoi 2023 – Reviews and Recommendations

# 1 small group hanoi street food tour with a real foodie.

1701 reviews | 5 Star Rating | 3 hours | BOOK NOW

Go hungry as you will be eating all the way on your walk around the Old Quarter. It’s crazy how many different types of food you get to taste on this tour right from – the classic Vietnamse pho or bun cha ie. rice noodle soup with beef, chicken, grilled pork even a crazy taste of snail. You also try out staples like dry noodles and sticky rice with a sumptuous bites of donuts, steamed pancakes or Vietnamese sandwiches aka Banh Mi.

“Chung was one of the best tour guides we have ever had! We tried bun cha, sugar cane juice, banhi mi, rice pancakes, green papaya salad, egg drinks, and lots of finger food. Chung was so knowledgeable, had great interpersonal skills, and was kind and perceptive. We learned a lot about Vietnam and Hanoi and had a great time walking around even though it was super hot! Would recommend this tour to anyone coming to Hanoi.” – Elizabeth_D | Read more reviews

What makes the tour so popular is the guide’s love for food and an elaborate knowledge of the city.

If you are a vegetarian like me, you don’t have to worry as the tour can easily accommodate your dietary preferences. Just inform in advance!

The tour is also happy to welcome infants onboard and is usually conducted in a small group of 8 and operates twice a day.

This tour is easily the best Hanoi street food tour for someone who loves a deep dive into local cuisine coupled with a scenic walk around the Hoan Kiem Lake – that too, without feeling rushed.

Book Small Group Hanoi Street Food Tour with a Real Foodie

#2 Hanoi Old Quarter Walking Street Food – Small Group Tour

438 reviews | 5 Star Rating | 3 hours | BOOK NOW

This tour is a proper walking tour that takes you around all the small streets and lanes of the Hanoian Old Quarter while also delivering on its promise of excellent Hanoi street food.

The reason why this tour may suit you better than the tour above is that this tour operates 10 times a day so you can easily accommodate it in your Hanoi itinerary.

” The morning food tour was wonderful. Until this point we could not seem to find food we liked but the tour filled us in on what to order and where to find it. The chosen restaurants had delicious food and our guide was great…friendly, knowledgeable, and spoke good English. Part of the tour was an egg coffee making class….great fun and delicious” Catherine_D | Read more reviews

On this tour, you would be delighted to find the famous Vietnamese Bun Cha, Pho, Banh mi as well as fresh spring rolls from places that you would hardly know about or dare to try.

The guide also encourages you to make your own egg coffee to make your overall experience thrilling.

I think that if it’s your first time in Hanoi and you have no idea how to cross the streets, find your way or look for tasty satisfying local meals – start with this tour.

The guide is not only knowledgeable but also orients tourists on how to cross the streets, introduces the tourists on trade-specific 36 guilds of Hanoi Old Quarter, etc.

Book Hanoi Old Quarter Walking Street Food

#3 Private Hanoi Street Food Walking Tour With Real Foodie

460 reviews | 5 Star Rating | 3 hours | BOOK NOW

Hate group tours but still want to do a walking tour? Here’s the perfect find for you – a private food tour of Hanoi. So you can go with your partner, your kids or your parents and the guide will help you walk around at your own pace and comfort.

In fact, the guide may also be able to accommodate your specific ‘tastes’. The start time is also flexible. So book this private tour as per your schedule and convenience.

“Linh was a fantastic guide and took us to a huge variety of different food stops, even tailoring it to our specific tastes and considered what we had already tried. Very knowledgeable and gave us lots of information about Hanoi and the history of some of places we visited.” Will_S | Read more reviews

The private tour typically lets you taste Pho, Bun Cha, Banh Mi and plenty of other local dishes – savoury and sweet. After spending about 2.5 hours in the lanes and stalls of the Old Quarter, it takes you to Café Giang – the place that invented the famous egg coffee.

What’s amazing about this tour is that it not only includes tastings but a full proper meal (unlike the tours above!) Go hungry to do justice to this tour.

Book Private Hanoi Street Food Walking Tour with Real Foodie

#4 Hanoi By Night Foodie Motorbike Tours

289 reviews | 5 Star Rating | 4 hours | BOOK NOW

This motorbike-led tour is an excellent way to get a first-hand feel of riding through the crazy traffic of Hanoi, exploring all the major areas while also eating the diverse range of local Vietnamese food.

This tour lets you taste a wide variety of dishes like Banh Cuon (steamed roll cake), Bun Cha (grilled pork with vermicelli noodles), and Banh Ran Ngot (salty and sweet donuts).

But the real reason why you would love this tour is because it covers a much larger area than the Hanoi Old Quarter.

“Su and Linh were the best guides. We ate at the best places. Still thinking about all the delicious food to be honest. The tour on the motorbike was hands down one of the best experiences in Hanoi. Worth every penny for such an unforgettable experience. Don’t miss out. Recommending to anyone who will listen. So good. Thank you Linh and Su!” Belinda| Read more reviews

If you stay in the Old Quarter, you get a free pick-up else you can meet right outside the Hanoi Opera House.

The tour starts with you being provided high-quality helments with visor, face masks and even a raincoat if required.

The drivers are all professional and the bikes used are spacious and in great condition.

You will be provided with coffee or tea as well as alcoholic beverages which are otherwise not included in other tours.

The tour takes you through a large geographical area starting from

• a family-run restaurant
• busy lanes of the Old Quarter,
• Ba Dinh square (quick pass by)
• Long Bien (Across the red river)
• the famous train street.

The only downside is that infants and kids can’t be taken along on this tour.

But it is easily the best way to get the best overview of Hanoian food, culture, architecture and city highlights in just a few hours.

Book Hanoi By Night Foodie Motorbike Tours

#5 Hanoi Food Lovers Walking Tour: Street Food Experience with 5 Food Stops

412 reviews | 4.5 Star Rating | 3 hours | BOOK NOW

This Hanoi food tour adds some touristy attractions to its offerings. It combines food with a visit to the local attractions of Vietnam. It is conducted as part of a small group of up to 12 people.

If you are wondering where to eat in Hanoi, check out this tour as it lets you taste not only the famous dishes like Bun Cha and Banh Mi, but also try out seasonal fruits, shop for local spices etc.

“We started our trip with this food tour so that we could revisit foods we enjoyed. San was an amazing tour guide. Very clear, made sure we didn’t get left behind and made extra efforts to make sure we were comfortable and happy. Would strongly recommend! An amazing experience” Audric_S| Read more reviews

The tour as the name suggests takes you on 5 key stops.

The tour starts with you visiting the lanes around the famous wholesale indoor market – Dong Xuan. Here you sample street food delicacies while also trying out seasonal fruits.

Next, you enter the chaotic buzz of the Old Quarter where you stop for sumptuous tastings of the best Vietnamese food in Hanoi – a bun cha, a fermented pork roll, and a fresh fruit salad.

The Hanoi street food closes with egg coffee in a secret coffee house or a cold beer in one of the most happening areas of Hanoi.

An impressive highlight of this tour is that the entire street food tour of Hanoi is conducted in a carbon-neutral manner and runs twice a day.

Book Hanoi Food Lovers Walking Tour: Street Food Experience with 5 Food Stops

#6 Hanoi Old Quarter Vegetarian Food Tour

9 reviews | 4.4 Star Rating | 3-3.5 hours | BOOK NOW

Are you looking for Vegetarian food in Hanoi? Are you an Indian who generally only eats vegetarian food and doesn’t know where to look for vegetarian food in Hanoi old quarter?

This Vegetarian Food Hanoi tour is ideal for you.

The tour comes in two attractive options

• a tasting tour
• and a sightseeing tour concluding with a buffet meal in a restaurant in Hanoi.

Plus the tour only needs a minimum of two people. So if you are travelling with a family or as a couple – it can work like your very own private food tour around Hanoi.

“We had the best time doing the vegetarian tour with Hoàng! He showed us the hidden spots of Hanoi and ended the tour in a lovely local café to have the best egg coffee. This tour can be done as a non-vegetarian too, you always have the option to choose between the vegetarian meal and the non-vegetarian. Definitely a recommendation for every food lover!” – Anonymous traveller on GetYourGuide | Read more reviews

This vegetarian food tour of Hanoi would open you up to the vast number of options you enjoy even as a vegetarian in Hanoi.

The first option – i.e. the vegetarian food tour in Hanoi Old Quarter lets you taste vegetarian Banh Mi, Spring rolls cooked with delicious mango, papaya, carrots, etc, Vietnamese vegetarian fried dumplings, Vietnamese traditional desserts, egg coffee and lovely unique steamed rice roll cake. Love the options! So do I!

The second option, on the other hand, lets a guide walk you around the Hanoi Old Quarter for about 1.5 hours with a stop on the way for egg coffee followed by a visit to a restaurant with a massive vegetarian buffet.

Keep lots of space in your tummy to be able to stuff everything from salads, soups, main dishes, rolls, fruit and coconut milk deserts – the menu literally changes every day to reflect Vietnamese cuisine’s diversity and seasonality in cooking.

The first option is suitable for those who want to walk around the town while exploring its food scene.

But if you hate multiple stops, and hate walking around for 3 hours, the second option of the vegetarian buffet meal is far more suitable.

Book Hanoi Old Quarter Vegetarian Food Tour

#7 Family Vietnamese Lunch

This option is a little different from all the options stated above because this tour is not about hopping around the town trying local food.

Instead, this tour lets you eat a local’s. home. The experience doesn’t involve walking. But it is still private and very insightful.

This option is excellent for those travelling to Vietnam with kids or for older couples, senior citizens, etc.

“Had a wonderful evening with Ngoc. She is such a really nice host – the food was lovely prepared and also she gave me the chance to interact with her in the kitchen. Had great time and nice conversations. Totally recommend!” – Florian | Read more reviews

In this option, a local host cooks a local, delicious Vietnamese lunch for you. Most of the products used in the preparation of the lunch are homegrown.

This experience is also a little more personal and deep in terms of getting to know local Vietnamese culture.

The lunch is not just about food but also about chitchatting with the host (who by the way can speak English and French fluently!) and also trying out food items like pickles which you would otherwise not find on a Hanoi walking food tour.

Book Family Vietnamese Lunch

#8 Book Hanoian Dinner on Your Table

Don’t find dining with a local over lunch convenient? No problem, head out for dinner at this fun host’s place.

The menu is so elaborate that you are served the best food in Hanoi on your table. No need to walk around the crazy, loud town. Instead you can understand local cultures and customs while being hosted by a chatty, food-loving local.

“Thank you so much Viet for the lovely, generous and delicious dinner 🙏🏻 Our best dinner in Hanoi, being welcome by you and your beautiful family. We felt very privileged 😍 The food cooked by your wife was so tasty, many dishes we never tried before ! The conversation was so interesting, we learned a lot about Vietnamese culture and you have given us so many recommendations in Hanoi and Vietnam. It always feels special to meet like minded people around the world and be welcome like old friends 💕. A night we will remember ! A Must Do for sure!” Camille | Read more reviews

The menu is a lavish mix of typical Hanoian dishes like

Spring Rolls with pork and rice paper, Fried Tofu, Mix Boiled Vegetables, Omelette, pork skin and sour soup.

In addition to the delicious taste, personal experience and hospitality, the food served here is far more hygienic than the street food in Hanoi. So if you want to avoid tummy troubles, this is a far better yet equally engaging experience.

Book Hanoian Dinner on Your Table

Frequently Asked Questions – Famous food in Hanoi

What food is hanoi famous for.

The famous food in Hanoi is – Bun Cha i.e. rice vermicelli with barbequed pork, – pho – Vietnamese noodle soup, – Banh Mi – Vietnamese sandwich with baguette – Banh Cuon – rice rolls – Egg coffee

In addition to this you can also find classic Vietnamese spring rolls, a variety of soups, hotpots and fruit jelly desserts in Hanoi.

What is a typical breakfast, lunch and dinner in Vietnam?

Banh Cuon, Banh Mi, Pho or sticky rice forms are the most common breakfast options in Vietnam. For lunch and dinner, Vietnamese have noodles or sticky rice with meat or seafood with a side of stir-fried vegetables, sauce and soup. Bun Cha is a famous lunch option in Hanoi.

A typical Vietnamese meal is served in a family-style set-up. So all the preparations are put on the table and then the family members serve small portions into their own bowls or plates. Vietnamese meals also don’t comprise courses served in chronological order.

Is it safe to eat street food in Hanoi?

Street food in Vietnam is probably as safe or unsafe as street food in other developing countries. It may also be said that street food is probably no less safe than the food cooked in restaurants. If you have a sensitive stomach, it is best to avoid spicy food, food that doesn’t look hygienic or food that you are allergic to. Get a doctor’s advice to clear your doubts and protect yourself against an upset tummy.

But street food in Hanoi is enjoyed by thousands of tourists visiting Hanoi every single day. Its variety and flavour is the primary reason why it is so popular even amongst tourists and it is definitely worth trying. Of course, practice basic precautions like avoiding food that looks obviously unhygienic, allergic substances etc. Always drink bottled water.

Final Thoughts: Best Hanoi Street Food Tours

I hope that this guide on the best food tours in Hanoi helped you. To get the most for your money’s worth I recommend that you book Small Group Hanoi Street Food Tour with a Real Foodie . which has over 1700 stellar reviews.

Pro Tip: Before you book the tour, go through the details and the reviews by fellow travellers to see than the Hanoi tour company you go with meets your needs.

Each of the Hanoi street food tour companies mentioned in this post including the private Hanoi meals listed above are conducted by locals who speak excellent English.

To have the best experience, go with an open mind and an empty stomach! 🙂

Visiting Vietnam? Read more helpful articles

1 day in Hanoi – what to do, see and eat

What to do in Hanoi Old Quarter – A perfect guide

28 must-have apps for traveling to Vietnam

Saigon Skydeck – Is it worth it?

Vrushali Ketkar is a lawyer turned travel blogger. She has travelled to 14 countries. She travels like a regular working woman with family. Her lawyer-level research skills make her a destination expert and help her get the most out of my trips. Today, her travel articles and videos help thousands of people across the world plan their trips to various parts of the world.

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Ultimate Hanoi food tour guide – Deep dive into local food scene

Embark on a culinary odyssey with our ultimate guide to taste the vibrant culture of Hanoi . Hanoi, Vietnam’s pulsating capital, is not only a tapestry of history and culture but also a gastronomic paradise. The aroma of sizzling delicacies beckons, and our guide is your passport to the heart of Hanoi’s street food scene. 

From savory pho to crispy banh mi, every dish narrates a chapter of the city’s rich heritage. Join us on a virtual journey through the bustling streets, where each vendor crafts a story with their culinary expertise. Let the symphony of flavors and aromas awaken your senses as we unravel the essence of Hanoi’s vibrant culture through the lens of a delectable Hanoi food tour .

Where to go for the best Hanoi food tour experience

Exploring the vibrant sidewalk culture of Hanoi is incomplete without delving into its enticing street food scene. No Hanoi travel plan is truly fulfilled without savoring the tempting offerings of its diverse and flavorful dishes, each crafted with unique tastes and wholesome ingredients to captivate every visitor. Below are the best places for you to find the most authentic taste of this ancient city for your Hanoi food tour .

Hanoi’s Old Quarter

Explore the gastronomic wonders of Hanoi by embarking on a street food tour in the historic Hanoi Old Quarter . This enchanting area, named after the goods it traditionally produced, beckons with its rich culinary treasures. Wander through the labyrinthine streets, indulging in Hanoi’s specialties at local stalls and eateries. A highlight of this culinary journey is Dong Xuan Market, the city’s largest street food market, offering a diverse array of flavors, from shrimp pancakes to pho xiu.

Immerse yourself further in the vibrant atmosphere by strolling along Ta Hien Street, Hanoi’s liveliest dining and socializing hub. Known as the beer street, Ta Hien is renowned for its “bia hoi” (fresh beer), harmonizing Eastern architecture with a blend of modernity and Western influence. This Hanoi street food tour promises an exploration of flavors amidst the historical charm of the Old Quarter.

Discover the culinary wonders around West Lake, locally known as Ho Tay, where Hanoi’s diverse street food scene unfolds. Begin your flavorful journey by indulging in renowned shrimp cakes, a West Lake specialty. These crispy delights come alive with a distinctive tangy and spicy dipping sauce, complemented by pickled papaya and carrots for a perfect balance of flavors.

A culinary adventure at West Lake wouldn’t be complete without savoring banh gio, a pyramid-shaped dumpling crafted from glutinous rice flour, savory meat, mushrooms, and aromatic spices. Opt for an authentic experience by settling into a humble setup with two plastic stools—one for a makeshift table and the other as your seat—immersing yourself in the local tradition of relishing banh gio. Let the tranquil ambiance of West Lake enhance your culinary exploration through the heart of Hanoi.

Vietnam Food Tour – 12 days of exploring Vietnamese cuisine .

Most unique dishes to try for your Hanoi food tour

Ca phe trung – egg coffee.

Indulge in the unique delight of Ca phe trung, or Egg Coffee, a Hanoi specialty that tops the list of must-try delicacies in any Hanoi food guide. My first sip of egg coffee in Hanoi became a cherished experience. Discover local coffee shops with charming low-level tables, where you can join Vietnamese locals, immersed in the simple joy of coffee and conversation.

Egg coffee is a fascinating blend of coffee and dessert, elevating the pleasure of both in a single cup. The frothy egg mixture atop is a velvety, creamy delight, creating a unique combination of sweetness and robust coffee flavor. Stir it in for a harmonious blend or relish the whipped egg layer first. The taste is extraordinary, a thick and sweet yet strong coffee essence. It may seem unusual at first, but it’s a delightful surprise—rustic, fresh, and indulgently rich. A true haven for coffee enthusiasts, don’t miss this culinary gem in Hanoi.

For the best egg coffee experience, visit renowned spots below:

• Giang Café – Address: 39 Nguyen Huu Huan Hoan Kiem
• Dinh Café – Address: 13 Dinh Tien Hoang Street, Hang Bac Ward, Hoan Kiem
• Café Thai – Address: 27 Trieu Viet Vuong, Hai Ba Trung.

Pho Bo – Beef Noodle Soup

Savor the quintessence of Vietnamese cuisine with the iconic Pho bo (Beef noodle soup), a culinary masterpiece and Hanoi’s must-try dish. For the best Pho in Hanoi, look no further than Pho 10 Ly Quoc Su, a renowned establishment in the heart of Hoan Kiem. A steaming bowl of Pho is a symphony of flavors, featuring fresh rice noodles immersed in a slow-cooked beef broth, adorned with tender slices of beef, scallions, onions, and cilantro.

Crafting the perfect Pho requires hours of meticulous broth preparation, showcasing the dedication to this Vietnamese national treasure. In Hanoi’s bustling Old Quarter and the charming French Quarter, legendary Pho stalls like Pho Gia Truyền Bát Đàn, Pho Thin Lo Duc, and the ever-popular Pho Hang Trong add to the city’s vibrant culinary tapestry. Join the queue of eager patrons and indulge in the rich, aromatic experience of authentic Pho at these esteemed Hanoi eateries.

For the best Beef Pho, visit renowned spots below:

• Pho Gia Truyen Bat Dan – Address: 25 Hang Ca, Hoan Kiem.
• Pho Thìn Lo Duc – Address: 13 Lo Duc, Hai Ba Trung.
• Pho Hang Trong – Address: 8 Hang Trong, Hoan Kiem.
• Pho 10 Ly Quoc Su – Address: 10 Ly Quoc Su Street, Hoan Kiem.

Bun Cha – Grilled Pork with Noodle

Trying out the culinary delights of Hanoi with the beloved local specialty, Bun cha, a top lunchtime choice in the city. This delectable dish features charcoal-grilled fatty patties and pork slices immersed in a soupy bowl of diluted dipping sauce. Served with rice vermicelli and a plethora of fresh herbs like lettuce, coriander, and purple perilla, it encapsulates the flavors of Northern Vietnam. Unlike pho, another regional favorite, Bún chả distinguishes itself with cylindrical noodles, reminiscent of spaghetti. 

To savor the best Bun cha in Hanoi, head to renowned spots like Bun Cha Chien Loan on Gia Ngu Street, Bun Cha Hang Quat on Hang Quat Street, or Bun Cha Huong Lien on Nguyen Huu Huan Street in Hai Ba Trung. Let your taste buds embark on a journey through the culinary treasures of Hanoi at these esteemed locations.

Where to taste the best Bun Cha in Hanoi:

• Bun Cha Chien Loan – Address: 25 Gia Ngu Street, Hoan Kiem.
• Bun Cha Hang Quat – Address: 74 Hang Quat Street, Hoan Kiem.
• Bun Cha Huong Lien – Address: 24 Nguyen Huu Huan Street, Hai Ba Trung.

Banh Mi – Vietnamese Baguette

Indulge in the Hanoi delicacy known as Banh mi, a Vietnamese rendition of the French baguette. Crafted locally with rice flour, this baguette boasts a light, crispy texture. Sliced open, it becomes a canvas for an array of ingredients: velvety liver pâté, tangy pickled vegetables, crisp cucumber slices, aromatic spices, and your choice of meat.

Banh mi stands as a culinary cornerstone across Vietnam, and a visit to Hanoi would be incomplete without savoring its delightful rendition. Throughout Hanoi, from mobile carts to established brick-and-mortar shops, you’ll encounter countless options. 

Where to eat the best Banh Mi in Hanoi:

• Banh Mì 25 – Address: 25 Hang Ca, Hoàn Kiếm.
• Bami Bread – Address: 98 Hang Bac Hoan Kiem.
• Banh Mi Pho – Address: 57C Dinh Tien Hoang Street, Hoan Kiem

Chao – Rice Porridge

Taste the simplicity and nourishment of Chao, a Vietnamese porridge or congee that serves as a comforting breakfast to kickstart your day. Crafted from rice simmered in a luscious and sweet pork bone broth, this porridge offers a rich and satisfying flavor. Paired with delectable Youtiao or floss, the dish achieves a heavenly combination. 

The velvety smoothness of the porridge meets the crunch of chunky fried Youtiao, creating a delightful symphony of textures and tastes. Embrace the warmth and flavor of this Vietnamese classic, where every spoonful is a journey into a world of culinary comfort and satisfaction.

Where to eat the best Chao in Hanoi:

• Chao Suon co La (roadside stall) – Address: 2A Ly Quoc Su, Hang Trong, Hoan Kiem.
• Chao Suon sun Huyen Anh – Address: 14 Dong Xuan, Dong Xuan, Hoan Kiem.

Lau – Hotpot and Nuong – BBQ

An experience that you cannot miss in your Hanoi food tour is to indulge in the culinary delights of Hanoi through the exceptional experience of Lau (Vietnamese Hotpot) and Nuong (Vietnamese BBQ). This street dining adventure reaches its pinnacle when shared with locals, relishing authentic Vietnamese cuisine in the heart of Hanoi.

For the Vietnamese Hotpot experience, explore the numerous Hotpot and BBQ establishments in Old Quarter, lining the streets like Ma May, Hang BC, Luong Ngoc Quyen, Hang Buom, and Binh Liet. Opt for the outdoor stalls or restaurants with humble low plastic stools, especially those bustling with locals – a sign of authenticity.

Venture into the world of Vietnamese BBQ (Nuong) for a delightful experience. The meal set presents an array of meat options, including beef, pork, chicken, and seafood. The menu offers both BBQ and hotpot choices, allowing you to savor the best of both worlds. With a copious amount of raw meats and vegetables, the staff provides guidance, leaving you to create your culinary masterpiece. Delicious, reasonably priced, and highly recommended, this culinary escapade is a must in Hanoi.

Xoi – Vietnamese sticky rice

Delve into the delectable world of Vietnamese sticky rice (Xoi) – the ideal initiation to your Hanoi culinary journey. Adored across Hanoi’s bustling streets, Xoi presents itself as a delightful dish featuring sticky rice adorned with an array of toppings like crisp fried shallots, succulent shredded chicken, or flavorful pork floss. A breakfast favorite among locals, Xoi wraps you in the comforting embrace of its flavors, promising a satisfying start to your day. 

To elevate your Xoi experience, explore these highly recommended spots:

• Xoi Yen – Address: 35B Nguyen Huu Huan, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi
• Xoi Ga Hang Hom – Address: 42 Hang Hom, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi
• Xoi Ba Son – Address: 44 Cau Go, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi

Bun Dau Mam Tom – Vermicelli with fried tofu and fermented shrimp paste

Embark on a culinary journey through Hanoi’s vibrant streets and savor the richness of Bun dau mam tom at these esteemed locales. Indulge in the flavors of Hanoi with the renowned street food dish, Vermicelli with fried tofu and fermented shrimp paste (Bun dau mam tom). 

This culinary delight harmonizes rice vermicelli noodles, tofu, and succulent pork belly, elevated by the distinctive taste of fermented shrimp paste. A cherished favorite among both locals and tourists, its unique combination of flavors and textures creates a memorable dining experience. 

For an authentic taste, explore these recommended destinations:

• Bun Dau Hang Khay – Address: 31 Hang Khay, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi
• Bun Dau Co Hang – Address: 174 Xa Dan 2, Dong Da District, Hanoi
• Bun Dau Ngo Gach – Address: 4 Ngo Gach, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi

Final thoughts

Embarking on a Hanoi food tour is not just a culinary journey; it’s a sensory immersion into the beating heart of Vietnam’s capital. This ultimate guide unravels the rich tapestry of Hanoi’s vibrant culture, woven seamlessly into its street food. 

Viland Travel’s customized tours elevate this experience, turning every stroll through the bustling markets and every bite of delectable local delicacies into a personalized adventure. In the labyrinthine streets of Hanoi, where history meets the aroma of simmering broths, each food stall tells a tale. 

Let the flavors of pho, banh mi, and egg coffee guide you through the city’s culinary narrative. A Hanoi food tour isn’t just about tasting; it’s about savoring the soul of this extraordinary city, one delicious bite at a time.

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12 Best Food In Hanoi | Taste The Rich Heritage

Nestled in the heart of Northern Vietnam, Hanoi is a culinary paradise that beckons food enthusiasts from around the globe. Renowned for its bold flavors, rich traditions, and diverse street food culture, the capital city offers a gastronomic adventure like no other. As you stroll through the bustling streets of Hanoi, the captivating aromas of sizzling dishes and aromatic spices will entice your taste buds and leave you yearning for more.

This article aims to be your ultimate Hanoi food guide to the must-try foods in Hanoi, offering insights into the history and significance of each dish and recommendations for the best places to savor them. Hanoi’s culinary delights are sure to leave a lasting impression on your senses.

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1. Pho – Vietnam’s Iconic Noodle Soup

Pho (pho noodles), pronounced “fuh,” is an iconic Vietnamese dish that has gained worldwide popularity. Hailing from the northern region, particularly Hanoi, it has become a staple in Vietnamese cuisine. This delectable noodle soup boasts a harmonious blend of rich broth, flat rice noodles, tender slices of beef or chicken, and an array of fragrant herbs and spices. You can try signature ‘pho bo’ (beef pho/beef noodle soup) or ‘pho ga’ (chicken pho).

The history of this Hanoi food dates back to the early 20th century, inspired by both Chinese and French culinary influences. It was initially sold as a street food dish, and over time, its popularity spread across the country and beyond. Nowadays, travelers from all corners of the globe flock to Hanoi to savor an authentic bowl of pho.

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Hanoi is home to several renowned eateries where you can savor delicious pho. Here are some of the famous ones:

• Pho Bat Dan (49 Bat Dan, Hoan Kiem District): A legendary pho establishment in Hanoi, Pho Bat Dan is renowned for its flavorful broth and tender beef slices, attracting both locals and tourists seeking an authentic pho experience.
• Pho Thin (13 Lo Duc, Hai Ba Trung District): With a history dating back to the 1970s, Pho Thin is celebrated for its unique stir-fried pho noodles, offering a delightful twist on the traditional dish.
• Pho Suong (24B Trung Yen Lane, Dinh Liet, Hoan Kiem District): Operating for decades, Pho Suong is well-regarded for its clear and aromatic broth, along with an array of condiments that allow diners to personalize their pho to taste.

2. Banh Mi – Vietnamese Baguette Sandwich

Banh Mi is a delectable Vietnamese baguette sandwich that embodies the fusion of French and Vietnamese culinary influences. The result is a mouthwatering combination of crunchy exterior and soft interior bread, filled with an array of delightful ingredients.

The versatility of banh mi allows for a wide variety of fillings, ranging from savory grilled meats like pork, chicken, or beef, to tofu for vegetarians. The sandwich is generously layered with pickled vegetables, daikon radish, cucumber slices, fresh cilantro, and a dollop of mayonnaise and hot chili sauce for added flavor.

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You can taste a delicious Banh Mi at any street food stalls. Here are some famous eateries in Hanoi where you can try delicious banh mi:

• Banh Mi 25 (25 Hang Ca Street) – A small yet popular spot known for its mouthwatering banh mi filled with a variety of savory meats and fresh ingredients.
• Banh Mi Pho Hue (118A Pho Hue Street) – This long-standing establishment is a go-to place for locals and tourists alike, serving up tasty banh mi with a range of traditional and creative fillings.
• Madame Khanh – The Banh Mi Queen (115 Tran Cao Van Street) – Run by the legendary “Banh Mi Queen,” this eatery offers a delightful array of banh mi options, including vegetarian choices.

3. Bun Cha – Grilled Pork With Vermicelli

Bun Cha is a beloved Hanoian dish that embodies the rich flavors of Vietnamese cuisine. This iconic meal consists of succulent grilled pork, which has been marinated in a fragrant blend of herbs and spices. Served alongside a mountain of vermicelli rice noodles and an assortment of fresh herbs, the dish is elevated by a dipping sauce that strikes a perfect balance of sweet, sour, salty, and spicy notes.

The preparation of bun cha involves meticulous grilling of the pork, resulting in tender, caramelized pieces that are full of smoky goodness. The vermicelli noodles provide a light and refreshing contrast to the hearty pork, making it a well-rounded culinary experience. The accompanying plate of fresh herbs and lettuce adds a delightful crunch and complements the overall taste.

Here are some famous eateries for Bun Cha in Hanoi:

• Bun Cha Dac Kim (1 Hang Manh Street): This legendary eatery is renowned for serving one of the best Bun Cha in Hanoi, attracting locals and tourists alike with its flavorful grilled pork and aromatic broth.
• Bun Cha Huong Lien (24 Le Van Huu Street): Known as the “Obama Bun Cha” restaurant, this spot gained international fame when former U.S. President Barack Obama dined here, and it continues to impress diners with its delectable Bun Cha.
• Bun Cha Ta (21 Nguyen Huu Huan Street): With a history spanning several decades, Bun Cha Ta is a hidden gem loved by locals, offering a delightful Bun Cha experience in a nostalgic setting.

Let’s see Adventures of A+K enjoyed some of the best Hanoi food that we just mentioned!

4. Cha Ca – Grilled Fish With Turmeric & Dill

Cha Ca is a beloved Hanoian dish that showcases the city’s rich culinary heritage. This unique dish features bite-sized pieces of white fish, typically catfish or snakehead fish, marinated in turmeric and galangal for a fragrant flavor. The fish is then grilled to perfection, creating a delightful combination of smoky and tender textures. One of the highlights of Cha Ca is the generous use of fresh dill, which adds a refreshing herbal aroma to the dish.

The traditional way to serve Cha Ca is on a sizzling hot plate, accompanied by a variety of accompaniments such as rice vermicelli noodles, roasted peanuts, fresh herbs like coriander and mint, shrimp paste sauce, and rice crackers. To enjoy this dish fully, diners can assemble their own Cha Ca rolls by wrapping the flavorful fish, herbs, and other toppings in rice paper before dipping them into the shrimp paste sauce.

Here are some famous eateries in Hanoi known for serving delicious Cha Ca:

• Cha Ca La Vong (14 Cha Ca, Hoan Kiem District): This iconic restaurant is credited with inventing Cha Ca and has been delighting diners with its original recipe for over a century, offering a truly authentic and traditional experience.
• Cha Ca Thang Long (19-21-31 Duong Thanh, Hoan Kiem District): Renowned for its flavorful Cha Ca, this restaurant provides a welcoming ambiance and consistently delivers a mouthwatering combination of grilled fish and aromatic herbs.
• Cha Ca Anh Vu (120 K1 Giang Vo, Ba Dinh District): A favorite among locals, this eatery excels in preparing Cha Ca with a perfect balance of turmeric, dill, and tender fish, ensuring a memorable culinary journey.

5. Egg Coffee – A Vietnamese Specialty

Egg coffee, also known as “ca phe trung” in Vietnamese, is a unique and indulgent beverage that has captured the hearts of locals and tourists alike in Hanoi. The drink was invented in the 1940s when fresh milk was scarce, and whisked egg yolk was used as a creative substitute.

The preparation of egg coffee involves whisking together egg yolks, sweetened condensed milk, and Vietnamese coffee, creating a rich and velvety concoction that is both creamy and aromatic. The mixture is then served hot in a small cup, often placed in a bowl of hot water to retain its warmth.

The taste of egg coffee is surprisingly delightful, offering a perfect blend of bittersweet coffee and the smoothness of the egg custard. It’s a must-try for those who enjoy exploring new and distinct flavors.

Here are some famous eateries for Egg Coffee in Hanoi:

• Cafe Giang (39 Nguyen Huu Huan, Hang Bac, Hoan Kiem): The original creator of egg coffee, Cafe Giang is a must-visit spot where you can savor the authentic and delightful ca phe trung in a cozy and nostalgic setting.
• Dinh Cafe (13 Dinh Tien Hoang, Hang Trong, Hoan Kiem): With a rich history dating back to the 1960s, Dinh Cafe offers a traditional ambiance and serves a wide range of egg coffee variations alongside other Vietnamese beverages.
• Giang Cafe (106 Yen Phu, Tay Ho): Giang Cafe, not to be confused with Cafe Giang, is another well-known spot renowned for its egg coffee, prepared using a secret family recipe that keeps visitors coming back for more.

6. Goi Cuon – Fresh Spring Rolls

Goi Cuon, also known as fresh spring rolls or summer rolls, are a beloved Vietnamese delicacy, especially popular during the warmer months. These rice paper rolls are filled with an assortment of fresh ingredients, such as shrimp, herbs like basil and mint, rice vermicelli, and slices of pork or other proteins.

What sets Goi Cuon apart is the delightful combination of textures and flavors within each roll. The soft and translucent rice paper complements the crunchy vegetables and succulent fillings, while the subtle aroma of the herbs adds a refreshing touch.

These healthy and light rolls are typically served with a savory peanut dipping sauce or a hoisin-based sauce, enhancing the taste with a balance of sweetness and nuttiness. Goi Cuon is a great option for those seeking a nutritious yet tasty snack or appetizer while exploring the vibrant streets of Hanoi.

Here are some famous eateries for Goi Cuon in Hanoi:

• Nha Hang Ngon (26 Tran Hung Dao Street, Hoan Kiem District): A bustling restaurant offering a wide variety of Vietnamese dishes, including top-notch Goi Cuon, served in a charming and vibrant setting.
• Bun Cha Nem Cua Be Dac Kim (1 Hang Manh Street, Hoan Kiem District): Known for its exceptional bun cha, this place also serves mouthwatering Goi Cuon, combining the best of both Hanoi’s culinary delights.
• Banh Cuon Gia Truyen Thanh Van (14 Hang Ga Street, Hoan Kiem District): Although famous for its rice cakes, their Goi Cuon, filled with quality ingredients, remains a favorite among locals and visitors alike.

7. Bia Hoi – Hanoi’s Fresh Beer Culture

Bia Hoi, a beloved aspect of Hanoi food landscape, is a unique and cherished beer-drinking tradition. This light and refreshing draft beer is locally brewed and known for its low alcohol content, making it a popular choice among locals and travelers alike.

Unlike commercial beers, Bia Hoi is produced daily and delivered to bars and street-side establishments, ensuring its freshness. The vibrant atmosphere of Bia Hoi joints, often filled with friendly locals and fellow adventurers, offers a fantastic opportunity to immerse oneself in the city’s social scene.

Sipping Bia Hoi from small plastic stools on the bustling streets of Hanoi is an experience not to be missed. The beer is usually accompanied by an assortment of tasty street snacks, further enhancing the conviviality of the occasion.

It’s a specialty in many Hanoi restaurants. Here are some famous eateries for Bia Hoi in Hanoi:

• Bia Hoi Ha Noi (27A Hang Than Street): One of the oldest and most iconic Bia Hoi spots in Hanoi, serving fresh and affordable draft beer in a lively and bustling atmosphere.
• Bia Hoi Corner (Ta Hien Street – Old Quarter): A vibrant street corner where several Bia Hoi establishments gather, creating a lively and socializing atmosphere for locals and tourists alike.
• Bia Hoi Hanoi (52 Luong Ngoc Quyen Street): A popular spot offering a wide selection of Bia Hoi along with delicious Vietnamese street food to complement the beer.

8. Bun Thang – Hanoi’s Delicate Vermicelli Soup

Bun Thang is a hidden gem among Hanoi’s culinary offerings, often overshadowed by more famous Vietnamese Noodle Soup like pho and bun cha. However, its unique blend of flavors and meticulous preparation make it a must-try for any food enthusiast visiting the city.

This delicacy is traditionally enjoyed during Hanoi’s cold winters, and its name “Bun Thang” even translates to “vermicelli soup of the soul.” This Vietnamese food is a harmonious fusion of shredded chicken, thin vermicelli noodles, and a fragrant broth made from simmering chicken bones and dried shrimp.

What sets this Hanoi food apart is its vibrant array of toppings, including thinly sliced omelet, earthy shiitake mushrooms, aromatic Vietnamese coriander, tangy green onions, and crunchy bean sprouts. Each element contributes to a symphony of tastes and textures, creating a unique and satisfying eating experience.

Here are some famous eateries in Hanoi where you can try Bun Thang:

• Bun Thang Cau Go (48 Cau Go Street): A charming eatery with a long-standing history, serving a delightful bowl of Bun Thang topped with generous portions of tender chicken, herbs, and an exquisite broth.
• Bun Thang Ba Duc (48 Cau Go Street): This legendary restaurant has been perfecting its Bun Thang recipe for over 70 years, offering a traditional taste that captivates locals and tourists alike.
• Bun Thang Hang Hom (11 Hang Hom Street): Nestled in the bustling Old Quarter, this humble spot boasts a flavorsome Bun Thang enriched with a symphony of herbs and condiments, providing a truly authentic Hanoian experience.

9. Banh Cuon – Steamed Rice Rolls

Banh Cuon is a beloved Vietnamese dish that has gained popularity not only in Hanoi but also throughout the country. These delicate steamed rice rolls are a staple for breakfast, appreciated for their light and soft texture.

The main attraction of Banh Cuon lies in its thin, translucent rice flour sheets, typically filled with a mixture of minced pork or Vietnamese pork sausage, wood ear mushrooms, and fragrant shallots. This flavorful filling perfectly complements the subtleness of the rice rolls.

To enhance the overall taste, Banh Cuon is often served with a side of aromatic herbs, crispy fried shallots, and dipping sauce made of fish sauce, garlic, and chili, adding a delightful blend of flavors and textures.

Here are some famous eateries for Banh Cuon in Hanoi:

• Banh Cuon Thanh Van (14 Hang Ga, Hoan Kiem District): With a legacy spanning generations, Banh Cuon Thanh Van is renowned for its traditional recipe, serving perfectly thin and silky rice rolls that keep patrons coming back for more.
• Banh Cuon Ba Hoanh (66 To Hien Thanh, Hoan Kiem District): A hidden gem for Banh Cuon enthusiasts, Banh Cuon Ba Hoanh impresses with its wide array of fillings and attention to detail, elevating the steamed rice rolls to a whole new level.

10. Bun Oc – Snail Noodle Soup

Bun oc is a traditional Vietnamese noodle soup made with freshwater snails, creating a distinct and savory flavor. While not as renowned as pho or bun cha, it offers a unique culinary experience that food enthusiasts will appreciate. And although this is soup, it’s still a popular Hanoi street food.

The broth is typically infused with tomatoes, lemongrass, and shrimp paste, which adds depth to the dish’s taste. The tender freshwater snails are the star ingredient, adding a delightful chewiness to each spoonful.

Here are some famous eateries for Bun Oc in Hanoi:

• Bun Oc Suon (57 Hai Ba Trung Street): A long-standing favorite, Bun Oc Suon is celebrated for its rich and flavorful snail noodle soup, lovingly prepared with a variety of succulent snail species and aromatic herbs.
• Bun Oc Hang Chai (6 Hang Chai, Hoan Kiem District): This humble eatery charms diners with its hearty Bun Oc, featuring tender snails and a mouthwatering broth infused with lemongrass and spices.
• Bun Oc Co Hue (35 Nguyen Sieu, Hoan Kiem District): Known for its generous portions and delectable broth, Bun Oc Ba Lu attracts locals and visitors seeking an authentic taste of Hanoi’s iconic snail noodle soup.

11. Mien Luon – Eel Vermicelli Soup

Mien Luon is a delightful Hanoi food that might not be as well-known as Pho or Banh Mi, but it offers a unique and delicious culinary experience. This hearty soup features tender pieces of eel combined with soft vermicelli noodles, creating a perfect harmony of textures. The broth, typically infused with various aromatic herbs and spices, adds a depth of flavor that elevates the dish to a true delicacy.

The eels used in Mien Luon are carefully prepared, removing any unwanted odors while preserving their natural sweetness. Once cooked, they are served atop a bed of delicate vermicelli noodles. A bowl of Mien Luon is typically accompanied by a side of fresh herbs, bean sprouts, and lime, allowing diners to personalize their soup according to their taste preferences.

Here are some famous eateries for Mien Luon (Eel Vermicelli) in Hanoi:

• Mien Luon Dong Thinh (87 Hang Dieu, Hoan Kiem District): A Hanoi culinary institution, Mien Luon Dong Thinh offers a tantalizing bowl of eel vermicelli topped with crispy eel, providing a delightful contrast of textures and flavors.

12. Nom Bo Kho – Green Papaya Salad With Beef Jerky

Nom Bo Kho is a delightful Vietnamese salad that combines the freshness of green papaya with the savory kick of marinated beef jerky. This Hanoi food is beloved for its harmonious blend of textures and bold flavors, making it a refreshing choice, especially during hot days in Hanoi.

The star of the dish is the green papaya, shredded to perfection, imparting a delightful crunch. The beef jerky adds a savory depth, infused with aromatic spices like lemongrass, garlic, and chili, creating a wonderful contrast to the papaya’s tanginess.

The dressing, a mix of chili, garlic, lime juice, and fish sauce, brings a spicy and tangy twist to the salad. It’s a burst of flavors that awaken the taste buds and leave a lasting impression on those who try it.

In conclusion, exploring the culinary delights of Hanoi is an adventure in itself, where travelers can immerse themselves in a tapestry of flavors, aromas, and traditions. From savoring the soul-warming bowl of pho at legendary establishments like Pho Gia Truyen and Pho Thin to relishing the delicate silkiness of Banh Cuon, every dish tells a story of Vietnam’s rich culinary heritage.

In Hanoi, food isn’t just sustenance; it is a reflection of the city’s soul and its people’s passion. The top Hanoi food encapsulate the essence of Vietnamese gastronomy, inviting travelers to embark on a journey of flavors that will linger in their memories long after they bid farewell to this captivating city.

Don’t miss out on this incredible journey—start planning your trip today! And remember, for a smooth and hassle-free experience, be sure to book the best Vietnam visa services .

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Hanoi food guide – what to eat in hanoi.

We’ve made over a dozen trips to Vietnam since 2009. It’s one of our favorite countries for food. Most of those trips have been to the capital, Hanoi. Over 1,000 years old, Hanoi is a very special city to us. Our Hanoi Food Guide features some of our all-time favorite Vietnamese dishes to eat.

*This post contains compensated links. Find more info in my  DISCLAIMER . As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

The Best Food To Eat In Hanoi

Traveling across Vietnam, you’ll quickly discover how Vietnamese cuisine differs from North to South. While a relatively small country, each region in Vietnam has its own style, specialties, and twist to traditional Vietnamese dishes. 

Many of the most well-known Vietnamese dishes originated from the North. From our experiences, Hanoi cuisine is richer than food from Saigon. One example is the much-loved pho. In the North, the broth is more intense and flavorful. Pho in Saigon tends to be lighter and less flavorful.

One simple explanation for this is the weather. Hanoi gets cold in the winter. Amber and I have learned this lesson the hard way. In Saigon, it’s warm most of the year. As a result, Northern Vietnamese food tends to be heavier and fattier. While Southern Vietnamese food is lighter and fresher. In a strange way, the food in Hanoi, reminds me of the food in Hong Kong .

Many traditional Hanoi dishes are influenced by Chinese cooking. This comes as no great surprise, as Vietnam shares a border with China. While Vietnamese food has been influenced by China, it’s by no means Chinese. Vietnamese and Hanoi food in particular are their own cuisines.

What Makes Hanoi Food Stand Out

Across Vietnam and in particular Hanoi, Vietnamese food is defined by its ingredients. Having explored a number of local food markets in Vietnam, one thing stands out, fresh ingredients. From fresh Vietnamese fruits and vegetables to pungent herbs, fresh ingredients are king.

In addition to these, Vietnamese cooking features tons of fresh seafood including fish, prawns, and our personal favorite, clams. One of the first dishes we ate in Vietnam was clams cooked in lemongrass, garlic, and ginger. The aroma by itself was intoxicating, let alone the taste.

All of these fresh ingredients can be seen in various Vietnamese breakfast dishes , Vietnamese desserts , and our favorite Vietnamese snacks . It is why we keep going back to Vietnam.

Eating In Hanoi

As I mentioned in our Saigon Food Guide , eating on the street in Vietnam is one of my favorite things. There’s just something special about the noise and chaos of Hanoi or Saigon while eating. Across Hanoi, there are tons of street food vendors cooking up delicious Vietnamese dishes. The best advice Amber and I can give is don’t pass up the opportunity to sample what they are cooking.

When traveling to Hanoi, Amber and I recommend spending some time sampling foods from one of the Hanoi fresh markets. Here you will find street food vendors selling all kinds of wonderful snacks, soups, and sandwiches. Our top recommendation is Dong Xuan Market in Hanoi. Go early, as that’s when the market is at its best.

There are some fantastic restaurants when eating in Hanoi . And since you can’t eat street food every day, it’s definitely worth visiting a few. During our last trip to Hanoi, we ate at our favorite restaurant Chim Sáo. Set in a local neighborhood, Chim Sáo is (was) the only place I’d eat tofu. Based on TripAdvisor, Chim Sáo appears to be closed. I’ve reached out directly to the restaurant and have yet to hear back. I only mentioned them to suggest looking for restaurants outside the Old City and the tourist areas.

12 Must Eat Hanoi Food Dishes

With our Hanoi Food Blog, we share our 12 favorite dishes that are a must-eat in Hanoi. By no means is this an end-all, be-all list. They are dishes we’ve discovered over many trips to Hanoi. Amber and I eat and enjoy these every time we travel to Hanoi.

Phở – Vietnamese Beef Soup

Hands down, the most popular dish to eat in Hanoi is Phở. Phở is the national dish of Vietnam. Everywhere you go in Vietnam, you’ll find pho. On the street, in restaurants, and along roadways in Vietnam there’s pho. Amber and I first had phở at a tiny street vendor in Hanoi. I think his name was “Shorty”. Whatever his name, it was a truly wonderful experience. One we’ve since repeated dozens of times across Vietnam.

Pho is a noodle soup made using a rich broth, usually beef. We’ve been told the key to a great phở is the broth. And a good phở broth cooks for hours. Once the broth is ready, slices of beef or chicken and rice noodle are added. Garnishes include fresh chilis, bamboo shoots, and fresh herbs like basil, mint, and cilantro. To give pho some zing, many people add fresh lime, chili sauce, or soy sauce.

Now, a lot of people think that pho is the same across Vietnam. This is not accurate. In our travels around Vietnam, we’ve found regional variations of pho. In Hanoi for example, the broth is more intense and flavorful compared to pho in Saigon. Speaking of Saigon, we found that pho in the South contains a great amount of onions versus pho in Hanoi. These differences might be subtle but they make it exciting to try different styles of pho in Vietnam.

Bún Chả Hanói

Bún Chả Hanói is the first thing I always eat in Hanoi. It’s my absolute favorite Vietnamese dish. This delicious dish combines grilled pork, pork meatballs, noodles, and pickled vegetables. Add in a flavorful dipping broth with fresh herbs and I’m in food heaven.

Given what Bún chả consists of, it’s no surprise bún chả translates to white rice noodles (bún) with grilled fatty pork (chả). You’ll find bun cha all over Hanoi. Just step outside and follow the delicious smells. It’s the ultimate Hanoi street food and my #1 recommendation for food in Hanoi.

Ngô Chiên Bơ  – Vietnamese Fried Corn

In 10+ years of traveling the world, it’s the simple dishes that have left the fondest memories for us. Easily on our top 10 favorite snack food discoveries list is ngô chiên bơ.

Ngô Chiên Bơ is a buttery fried corn kernel dish popular across Vietnam. It’s the perfect Vietnamese street food dish found at most Hanoi markets. As we did, the more time you spend in Vietnam, the more you’re going to crave Ngô Chiên Bơ. To find some of the best Ngô Chiên Bơ in Hanoi, head to Bia Hơi Hà Nội . Located in the Old Quarter, Bia Hơi Hà Nội served lots of great Vietnamese beer snacks alongside bia hơi.

Pro Tip: Places like Bia Hơi Hà Nội only have a certain amount of bia hơi each day. If you want to experience bia hơi and street food, go early. By mid or late afternoon, many places will have sold out of bia hơi and close until the next day.

Often mistaken with spring rolls, these little finger food snacks are actually a different thing entirely. Unlike egg rolls, they are not fried in oil. In fact, they are not cooked at all but instead served as a cold dish. 

Made using sticky, moist rice paper, these flavorful little parcels are packed with refreshing vegetables and herbs such as cucumber, carrot, mint, and cilantro, and usually some meat such as pork, shrimp, or chicken. They are served with a selection of dipping sauces, such as peanut sauce, chili oil, or soy sauce, and the result is a party in your mouth.

This is always a good choice if you’re looking for some of the best Hanoi food. It’s also lovely and light, meaning you can snack on them throughout the day and still have room left over for all other good food in Hanoi. 

Cha Ca – Vietnamese Turmeric Fish

If you love fish and seafood, then I highly recommend trying this turmeric grilled fish dish known as cha ca. Many chefs in Vietnam use catfish for this dish, but depending on where you go, it can be served with other varieties of fish too. 

The fish is marinated in a turmeric sauce, which includes shrimp paste, ginger, and chili, before being grilled over hot charcoal for a charred flavor.

The dish is often served with rice noodles and fresh herbs such as dill, scallions, and basil. It is considered a delicacy in Hanoi and can be found in many Vietnamese restaurants, such as Cha Ca La Vong on Cha Ca Street. 

Bún Thang – Vietnamese Noodle Soup

Bun thang is a Vietnamese noodle soup, which gets its name from a medical term in Vietnam that translates to prescription. A Vietnamese chef told me that this was because of the heavy use of dried herbs in this dish’s preparation. 

This noodle broth, similar to pho, is usually topped with various ingredients, including egg, Vietnamese sausages, and shredded chicken. It is served with a generous helping of rice noodles, fresh herbs, and the dry herbs used in the broth, making this a flavorsome soup. 

Bun Rieu is a rice noodle broth that stands out entirely from any other noodle broth you will sample while eating in Hanoi. Instead of the usual beef and bone broth, this is made with a beautiful, rich tomato broth and flavored with different kinds of crab, from freshwater to brown paddy crab. 

The broth is the perfect balance of sweet and sour, and the flavor combinations make it one of the best noodle broth dishes in Hanoi, in my opinion. You can get your hands on this taste sensation at almost any Vietnamese restaurant in Hanoi. 

Street Side BBQ

It is not a trip to Vietnam if you don’t try out the street-side BBQs that can either be found right there on the sidewalk or at any Hanoi markets. 

If you have ever had the pleasure of visiting Korea, you will know precisely what kind of thing I am talking about when I say street-side BBQ. It’s not the kind you might pop up in your garden twice a year and chuck a couple of sausages on; oh no, this is a unique experience all of its own and one that you simply have to try.

On the BBQ menus, you can expect to see dishes such as pork, squid, beef, greens, and even scrambled egg and fried rice, depending on which ones you pass by. The difference with BBQ is the intense difference in flavor. 

If you’re looking to get an authentic Hanoi experience, grab a couple of Vietnamese beers, a good spot on the sidewalk, and a sharing plate of BBQ Hanoi street food, and watch the world go by. 

Bia Hơi – Vietnamese Fresh Beer

Known as “fresh beer,” bia hơi is essentially draft beer that’s been brewed and distributed the same day. There is a brief maturing period, but much less than most beers. Bia hơi is much more popular in Hanoi and throughout the North. You’ll find it in Ho Chi Minh City, but you have to look very hard. Restaurants serving bia hơi only receive a certain amount each day. Once they run out, which can be as early as noon, they are out until the next day.

Amber and I were first introduced to bia hơi during our first trip to Vietnam. It was at a “beer garden” in Hanoi where we first drank bia hơi. It’s not the best tasting Vietnamese beer. But it’s served cold, or over ice. And it’s cheap. Back in 2009, you could get a small glass of bia hơi for roughly $0.25.

Pro Tip: In Vietnam, people love to cheers (toast) when drinking bia hơi. The most popular Vietnamese toast is “Một – Hai – Ba – Dzô” . This means, 1, 2, 3, Drink!!!! Make a note and make sure to cheers when drinking your bia hơi.

Nem Chua Rán

Nem Chua ran one of the best Hanoi foods that are often popular with the younger crowd because of its fast-food aspect. Similar to egg rolls, or spring rolls, these savory treats are usually filled with prawns or ground, fermented pork before being dipped in a tempura batter and deep fried. It’s kind of somewhere between an egg roll and a corn dog. 

These are excellent snacks to walk around with while you explore. Although they might not be the healthiest option when traveling, who cares, you deserve a treat!

Cà Phê Sữa – Vietnamese Coffee

Amber and I are coffee lovers. As coffee lovers, we can’t get enough Cà Phê Sữa when we are in Vietnam. Not many people think of Vietnam as a coffee country. But Vietnam is the second largest coffee producer in the world. Throughout Vietnam, you’ll find hundreds of coffee shops selling this amazing beverage.

Cà Phê Sữa (milk coffee) is made using a smaller French Press-type coffee maker. The nutty-flavored coffee drips down into a glass with condensed milk. It’s not the fastest method, but the results are worth the wait.

Pro Tip: Add some ice to your cà phê sữa for an even tastier coffee. Called cà phê sữa dá , Đá being the word for ice in Vietnam, it’s our prefer coffee in Vietnam.

Cà Phê Trứng – Vietnamese Egg Coffee

This didn’t sound appealing the first time Amber and I heard the name. However, if there is one drink you must try while visiting Hanoi, it’s Vietnamese egg coffee ( Cà Phê Trứng ). We did and we love it.

Now, don’t worry, you won’t order this and get a cup of coffee with a broken egg on top. The egg is beaten into the condensed milk, which makes an aerated, silky foam to put on top of a robust black coffee. This drink actually originated in Hanoi back in the 1940s. Supposedly, egg yolks were added to coffee because milk was in short supply.

FAQs – Hanoi Food Guide – What To Eat In Hanoi

In its 1,000-year history, Hanoi has been famous for many things including its food. At the top of this list has to Phở bò. Famous across all of Vietnam, Phở Bò Hanoi is a richer and more intense version of the national dish of Vietnam. Other famous foods found in Hanoi include bun cha, cha ca, and kem, Vietnamese ice cream.

As the capital of Vietnam, Hanoi is a modern and cosmopolitan city. You’ll find great local Vietnamese food, but you’ll find many international favorites like pizza and American-style BBQ. Over the past 20 years, international restaurants like McDonald’s and KFC have opened in Hanoi. But still, the best food in Hanoi is found on the street and at markets.

Phở Bò is the national dish of Vietnam. All across Vietnam millions of bowls of pho are enjoyed by Vietnamese of all statuses. While it might have begun as a “poor man’s” dish, that is no longer the case. A bowl of pho will cost less if you buy it from a street vendor compared to a sit-down restaurant.

Eric Hoffman

Eric Hoffman is the co-founder of Food And Drink Destinations. Eric is a lifelong traveler who is passionate about helping people learn how to travel for food. He lives with his wife, Amber, in Limerick, Ireland, after spending 3 years living in Spain. Over the last 20 years, they've traveled to over 70 countries together, always in search of great food travel experiences. Eric also loves cooking at home, always looking to perfect his Italian recipes.

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THE 10 BEST Hanoi Food Tours

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32 Best Hanoi Restaurants And Cafes

By Author Daryl and Mindi Hirsch

Wondering what to eat in Hanoi Vietnam? Our Hanoi food guide showcases the best food that we ate in Hanoi over five weeks in Vietnam’s chaotic capital city. Discover our favorite Hanoi restaurants, cafes, bars and street food because you won’t want to miss a thing during your visit.

Stepping into the chaotic streets of Hanoi in Vietnam can be scary. Wherever you are, motorbikes and cars whiz by haphazardly. There aren’t many crosswalks and the relative few are more suggestive than heeded.

In fact, we jokingly refer to these walkways as suggested crossings ! Yes, pedestrian conviviality has never been a Hanoi strong suit.

And let’s not even get into the hawker ladies aggressively selling their wares on shoulder poles that are also used to trap tourists. Sounds awful, right? Wrong! The chaos is part of what makes Vietnamese places like Hanoi uniquely wonderful. The other part is the food.

Hanoi street food is for real and is something you must eat in Hanoi Vietnam. This is a city that takes the phrase “street food” seriously – food is literally everywhere. Each block has dozens of cafes, with diners spilling on to sidewalks littered with tiny plastic chairs representing every primary color of the rainbow and similarly sized tables.

What about the prices? Street food is the answer if cheap eats Hanoi is the question.

Day or night, a stroll easily becomes a Hanoi street food tour . During the day, Old Quarter Hanoi street vendors sell fruit and sticky rice wrapped in banana leaves.

It’s nighttime though when these streets really come alive with the kinds of food that Hanoi residents love most including our personal favorite – meat on a stick.

You do not have to worry about being hungry during your visit. Long story short – there’s lots of great street food to eat in Hanoi with or without a Hanoi street food guide.

Hanoi Food Guide | What And Where To Eat In Hanoi

Finding good food in Hanoi is the opposite of a challenge. Instead, at least for visitors, the challenge is knowing what and where to eat in Hanoi Vietnam. Don’t worry – we’ve got you covered with our picks for the best Hanoi food.

A month in Hanoi wasn’t enough for us to find the best Hanoi restaurants and eat all the street food. That’s why we returned for another week to conduct further culinary exploration.

Use our Hanoi guide to find the best places to eat in Hanoi as well as a variety of yummy things to eat in Hanoi during your visit. There’s no shortage of wonderful food to eat in Hanoi, and we’re happy to share some of the best food in Hanoi Vietnam here.

However, be aware that Hanoi restaurants can move or close at any time. Don’t worry if one of our favorites has closed unexpectedly. Instead, just follow your nose to a different spot on the same block. The risk is low but the rewards can be delicious.

Any visitor to Hanoi will quickly find out that the number one thing to do in Vietnam’s capital city is to eat. The city has over 7.5 million residents, many of whom eat out on a daily basis, and is one of the best food cities in the world.

Discover more foodie cities around the world .

Though Hanoi food options run the gamut, most diners choose from the following classics:

Pho (Noodle Soup)

Oh, Pho in Hanoi , how do we love you? Let us count the ways.

We love you for your savory broth and your slow-cooked meat, both beef and chicken. We love you for your reasonable price of around $2 US. We love you for your condiments, especially the small but potent red peppers.

Most of all, we love you for your freshly made rice noodles that we always swirl on our chopsticks before slurping into our mouths. We hate to pick favorites, but we think you’re the best food to eat in Hanoi.

Pho originated in Hanoi and is arguably the national dish of Vietnam. We could eat this soup morning, noon and night. In fact, that’s what we do whenever we’re in Hanoi. Any time we wonder what to eat for breakfast in Hanoi, the answer is almost always Pho.

Discover more great noodle dishes .

Pho Bo (Beef Noodle Soup)

We’ve eaten Beef Pho many times before, but never like in Hanoi. We stumbled into Pho Bat Dan on our first night in town and returned another half dozen times over the following weeks to eat some of the best Pho in Hanoi’s old quarter.

The lines may often be long (a good sign) compared to other Hanoi pho shops, but the wait is well worth it when the reward is cheap bowls of soup with ultra-fresh ingredients and slow-cooked, melt-in-your-mouth slices of beef. Though super casual, Pho Bat Dan is one of the best restaurants in Hanoi.

Quán phở Gia Truyền Bát Đàn is located at 49 Bát Đàn, Cửa Đông, Hoàn Kiếm, Hà Nội, Vietnam.

Discover more great soups around the world .

Pho Ga (Chicken Noodle Soup)

Tucked away on an alley near the Hanoi Hilton, Pho Lam serves the kind of Chicken Pho that we could easily eat every day without getting bored. Eating here is a full-on experience starting with the women cooking the soup over coals and continuing inside the bare-bones restaurant with long community tables and wooden benches.

It’s the soup, though, that steals the show with its clear broth and tender chicken. Don’t even get us started on the condiments…

Phở Lâm is located at 7 Nam Ngư, Cửa Nam, Hoàn Kiếm, Hà Nội, Vietnam.

Watch our Hanoi Pho video to see us in action eating some of Hanoi’s best Pho.

Cha Ca (Grilled & Fried Fish With Rice Noodles)

We fell in love with the Hanoi food scene while eating Cha Ca at our first lunch at non-touristy Cha Ca Phan. Cha Ca, a Northern Vietnamese specialty involves pan-fried chunks of meaty, fatty skinned fish, turmeric, dill, peanuts, shrimp paste and rice noodles. If you haven’t tried it before, then Cha Ca may be the most unique food to try in Hanoi.

Watch our Hanoi Cha Ca video to see what it’s like to eat Cha Ca in Hanoi.

If you have limited time, you can eat Cha Ca in Hanoi’s Old Quarter where an entire street is dedicated to the popular dish. On this street, you’ll find the most famous Cha Ca restaurant which is called Cha Ca La Vọng.

Cha Ca Phan is located at 84 Trần Quốc Toản, Trần Hưng Đạo, Hoàn Kiếm, Hà Nội, Vietnam. Chả Cá Lã Vọng is located at 107 Nguyen Truong To, Quan Thanh, Ba Dinh, Hanoi, Vietnam.

Bun Cha (Grilled Pork & Noodles)

If Pho is Hanoi’s number one dish, then Bun Cha is easily number two when it comes to being a Hanoi local food favorite. And who can blame the locals for loving this dish where grilled pork and rice noodles are the stars and fresh herbs, sliced papaya, red chili and garlic are the supporting players? If these ingredients aren’t enough for you, then add fried spring rolls called Nem to the mix.

Watch our Hanoi Bun Cha video to see the full Bun Cha dining experience.

Similar to Pho, you will find Bun Cha restaurants all over the city. After eating at several different Bun Cha restaurants, we consider Bun Cha Hang Quat our favorite.

Though somewhat hidden in an alley, the Old Quarter restaurant does a brisk business by serving freshly made bun cha to the starving masses for just four hours a day from 10 am to 2 pm. Go early to get a good seat and beat crowd seeking the best bun in Hanoi.

Fun Fact Bun Cha achieved international fame when Anthony Bourdain and Barak Obama sat on little chairs to eat the noodle dish at Bún Chả Hương Liên. Though we found the food here to be above average, we were less impressed by the higher prices and surly service. Even still, it’s a fun spot to eat Bun Cha amid photos of two of Hanoi’s most acclaimed visitors.

Bun Cha Hang Quat is located at 74 Hàng Quạt, Hàng Gai, Hoàn Kiếm, Hà Nội, Vietnam. Bún Chả Hương Liên is located at 24 Lê Văn Hưu, Phan Chu Trinh, Hai Bà Trưng, Hà Nội, Vietnam

Xoi (Sticky Rice)

Sticky rice may be the ultimate Hanoi comfort food. We especially like the version at popular Xoi Yen where they flavor the glutinous rice with green mung bean paste and lots of chicken fat.

Topped with meat and paired with a cheap bottle of beer, Hanoi sticky rice is a true guilty pleasure.

Xôi Yến is located at 35B Nguyễn Hữu Huân, Lý Thái Tổ, Hoàn Kiếm, Hà Nội, Vietnam.

Bun Bo Nam Bo (Beef & Noodles)

No worries if you don’t eat pork – head over to Bun Bo Nam Bo for the Southern Vietnamese dish that inspired this Hanoi restaurant’s name.

Unlike Pho and Bun Cha, this dish is not a Hanoi creation. It’s still worth eating in Hanoi at Bun Bo Nam Bo for the melange of ingredients (grilled beef, veggies, herbs, peanuts and crispy onions) artfully served together in one big bowl.

Pro Tip When you eat Bun Bo Nam Bo, be sure to add fresh lime juice and chili sauce for maximum flavor.

Bun Bo Nam Bo is located at 67 Hàng Điếu, Cửa Đông Hoàn Kiếm Hà Nội, Vietnam.

Bun-Mien Ngan (Rice Noodles With Muscovy Duck)

For the uninitiated, Muscovy ducks are indigenous in the Americas and can be found in countries as far away as Australia and New Zealand. We don’t know why the large, meaty ducks are so popular in Vietnam . Curious diners can enjoy Muscovy duck at eateries around town in versions ranging from soups to noodle dishes.

Pick your passion. As for us, we like to eat ours with cellophane noodles at spots like Hanh Ngan De.

Hạnh Ngan Dé is located at 63 Cửa Bắc, Quán Thánh, Ba Đình, Hà Nội, Vietnam.

Banh Mi (Baguette Sandwich)

As hard as we tried, we never found the best Banh Mi in Hanoi, though we ate several in our noble quest. They were all good but not great. Though our quest continues for Banh Mi greatness in Hanoi, we can’t neglect including the Hanoi cheap eats staple in our Hanoi eating guide.

Our Banh Mi baguettes were pretty good at super-popular Banh Mi 25 in Hanoi’s old quarter. We also shared a decent Banh Mi with paté at Bánh Mì Bà though the flavor profile oddly skewed sweet over savory. Ironically, our favorite Banh Mi sandwiches in Hanoi were at nameless stands including the one outside our apartment.

Update We found Vietnam’s best Banh Mi in charming Hoi An . Watch our video for the full story.

Banh Mi 25 is located at 25 Hàng Cá, P, Hoàn Kiếm, Hà Nội, Vietnam. Bánh Mì̀ Bà Lan is located at 8 Chả Cá, Hàng Bồ, Hoàn Kiếm, Hà Nội, Vietnam.

Pho C uon (Rice Noodle Rolls)

If you love rice noodles, then you will love Pho Cuon where big rice noodles are rolled around beef and green herbs to create a delightful finger food. If the delicate flavors aren’t enough for you, then ramp it up by dipping the Pho Cuon into Nuoc Cham, a mixture of fish sauce, sugar, vinegar and chili.

We ate Pho Cuon at Phở Cuốn Hương Sơn; however, the neighborhood has several spots serving this dish. Look around and pick the restaurant that looks best to you.

Watch our Hanoi Pho Cuon video to learn more about Pho Cuon, one of our favorite Hanoi foods.

Phở Cuốn Hương Sơn is located at 19 Ngũ Xã, Trúc Bách , Tây Hồ, Ha Noi, Vietnam .

Pho Chien Phong (Fried Pho Noodles)

We discovered Pho Chien Phong in the Truc Bach neighborhood, the same neighborhood where we ate Pho Cuon. The discovery was a happy one.

In this Vietnamese dish, pho noodles are cut into squares, deep-fried and then topped with beef and sautéed green vegetables. Considering that we dubbed these squares as “little pillows of yumminess”, it’s fair to say that we highly recommend trying Pho Chien Phong in Hanoi.

Banh C uon (Steamed Rice Rolls)

When we think about our time in Hanoi, a key memory will likely be sitting on small plastic chairs and eating Banh Cuon for the first time at Banh Cuon Ba Hoanh. We had never eaten this dish before, and we immediately fell in love with the big pieces of fermented rice noodles served with fresh herbs and bowls of pork, mushroom and minced shallots.

True Story Our love for Banh Cuon did not fade when we later heard a rumor that the dipping sauce may have been flavored with ca cuona , the essence of a giant water bug. If the rumor is true, then we got some extra protein.

Bánh Cuốn Bà Hoành is located at 66 Tô Hiến Thành, Bùi Thị Xuân, Hoàn Kiếm, Hà Nội, Vietnam.

Ôc Len Xào Dùa (Sea Snails In Coconut Milk)

Diners can be separated into two groups – those who love snails and those who don’t. We get that some people don’t feel comfortable eating the little mollusks. As for us, we love them.

In Hanoi, adventurous food travelers can eat snails bathed in coconut milk and lemongrass and then wash their hands in lemongrass-infused water. At least that’s what we did at Ốc Lan Béo Hải Phòng. See photo of our snail feast above.

We recommend eating Hanoi snails at your own risk since we can’t vouch for the cleanliness of the snails or the water where they live. Interestingly, our Vietnamese friend confided that she had never see foreigners eat local snails until she saw us suck down the little critters.

Ốc Lan Béo Hải Phòng is located at B1 Phạm Ngọc Thạch, Trung Tự, Đống Đa, Hà Nội.

Che (Sweet Dessert Soup)

Che is a Vietnamese dessert that we had not tried prior to our Hanoi visit, and we were unclear what it was until we tasted the sweet dish in Hanoi. Che can be either hot or cold, and it can have a wide range of ingredients like mung beans, red beans, fruit and tapioca beads.

Discover more than 100 of the best desserts around the world .

Visitors can sample different varieties at decades-old Che Ba Thin in the Old Quarter. Our favorite is a hot sugar cane brew with a porridge-like texture and a strong ginger taste.

Pro Tip You can find che at many eateries in the Old Quarter as it is a popular local Hanoi dessert.

Che Bà Thìn is located at 1 Bat Dan and Hang Gai, Hoàn Kiếm, Hà Nội, Vietnam.

Hanoi Restaurants Worth A Splurge

Traditional Hanoi food is as cheap as it is good, but sometimes we like to treat ourselves to something different. Plus, we occasionally like to eat in a dining room with proper chairs and air conditioning even when we’re on holiday.

Hanoi restaurant food options range from elevated Vietnamese classics to global food from around the world. If you stay for more than a few days, you should check out one or more of the following Hanoi restaurants:

Located in Hanoi’s most historic hotel, Angelina is a modern restaurant and whiskey bar with an international menu that features dishes like Wagyu fillet, Scottish smoked salmon and Canadian lobster. The wine list is similarly global with bottles sourced from France, Australia and the US.

We enjoyed our meal that started with roasted king scallops and a caesar salad and continued with wagyu beef tenderloin and a lamb rack before finishing with an artfully presented pannacotta dessert.

Pro Tip Angelina’s prices are a splurge and comparable to western restaurants. However, if you’re hankering for a steak and have the budget, Angelina is an excellent spot to indulge your craving.

Angelina is located at 56, Phố Lý Thái Tổ, Quận Hoàn Kiếm, Hà Nội, Vietnam.

Highway4 was double recommended to us, first by a friend of a friend who previously lived in Hanoi and then by a local food fanatic. With two trusted recommendations, we had to check out this relatively fancy Old Quarter spot for a different take on Hanoi cuisine.

We relaxed during our meal while we sipped rice wine and feasted on a variety of Northern Vietnamese dishes. Though the owner originally hails from the UK, the innovative dishes are classically Vietnam.

We especially enjoyed Highway4’s version of catfish spring rolls. This modern take on a traditional spring roll packs gently fried catfish and herbs inside a clear rice wrapper, but the real star of the dish is the flavorful wasabi soy sauce served on the side.

Highway4 has multiple locations in Hanoi. We recommend the location at 25 Bát Sứ, Hoàn Kiếm, Hà Nội, Vietnam.

Pizza 4P’s

Delivering Wow, Sharing Happiness

Pizza 4P’s is a Vietnam-based Japanese run Italian pizza restaurant that serves Neapolitan pizza in three Vietnamese cities including Hanoi.

Neapolitan pizza in Vietnam? Yep, after eating some of the best pizza in Naples , Caiazzo and New York , we were skeptical too – until we took our first blissful bite.

Beyond its impeccable service and open kitchen concept, 4P’s serves pizzas that expertly blend Neapolitan techniques with Vietnamese ingredients.

Yosuke and Sanae Masuko, the pizza chain’s Japanese owners, have introduced a farm to table concept that shines brightest with their housemade burrata. But the Japanese perfectionists don’t stop there. They even make their own chili sauce.

Eating Neapolitan pizza with the best Vietnamese ingredients is a luxury, with a pizza at 4P’s easily costing ten times the cost of a bowl of Pho. However, when it comes to value, 4P’s delivers.

Pizza 4P’s has multiple locations in Hanoi. We recommend the Old Quarter location at Hàng Trống, Hoàn Kiếm, Hanoi, Vietnam.

S&L’s Diner

We don’t normally consider diner fare to be a splurge, but western food comes at a premium in Hanoi. This is a city where Vietnamese food reigns supreme.

But, let’s face it, there’s only so much Pho that a traveler can eat. If you stay in Hanoi long enough, you will eventually crave familiar foods like burgers and fries. It’s inevitable.

Pro Tip This diner is open nightly until midnight, making it a great western way to start or end a night on the town in Hanoi.

Owned by American ex-pat Steven Kackerski originally from the Philadelphia area, S&L’s Diner has a menu filled with American comfort food favorites like chicken & waffles and macaroni & cheese. For the ultimate splurge, diners can wash their meals down with American-style milkshakes.

Discover more of the best fried chicken in the world .

S&L’s Diner is located at 22 Phố Báo Khánh, Hàng Trống, Hoàn Kiếm, Hà Nội, Vietnam.

Maison Marou Hanoi

We first discovered Marou Chocolate in Saigon and were so impressed that we filmed a video about the chocolate lover’s heaven. Needless to say, we were beyond ecstatic to discover that Marou now has a location in Hanoi.

Similar to the flagship Saigon location, Hanoi’s Maison Marou serves a variety of sophisticated pastries and beverages. Featuring the company’s farm-to-bar chocolate, these pastries and drinks are exquisitely composed and bursting with chocolate.

Popular items include the signature chocolate tart and Paris-Saigon, a chocolate take on the French Paris-Brest. These pastries honor the best Paris pastries but with a local stamp.

Though you can’t make a bad selection at Maison Marou, we must insist that you order a chocolate egg cream. After sharing three on three separate visits, we affectionately nicknamed them egg coffees on steroids. To say we love this drink is an understatement.

Maison Marou Hanoi is located at 91A Thợ Nhuộm, Trần Hưng Đạo, Hoàn Kiếm, Hà Nội, Vietnam.

Hanoi Drinks

Drinks are an integral part of life in Hanoi since it’s important to stay hydrated in the city’s hot climate. Our Hanoi drinks of choice skew toward the local Hanoi beer (Bia Ha Noi) and an old standby (Coca Cola).

As beer drinkers, we’re happy to see a burgeoning craft beer scene in Hanoi with new beers like Saigon’s Pasteur Street sprouting up in the city. Sometimes, though, we want something different.

These are our favorite places to drink in Hanoi:

Hanoi Coffee Shops

We always seek out coffee shops when we travel, both for the caffeinated elixir as well as for workspaces with wi-fi. Seeking the best cafe in Hanoi was no exception.

Though we weren’t sure what to expect in Hanoi in this regard, we found a thriving coffee scene with a wide range of coffee shops serving both traditional Vietnamese coffee drinks with sweetened condensed milk and western coffee drinks with espresso and steamed fresh milk.

Exploring Hanoi coffee shops is fun. Some cafes are hidden, some double as art galleries and others serve their coffee with a view.

Kafeville was our favorite coffee shop in Hanoi for both drinking and working before it relocated. Beyond the high quality of the coffee itself, Kafeville was also a great spot to work at a table or chillax. The staff was both professional and friendly, internet was fast and the latte art was photo-worthy.

Update Kafeville moved to a new location. Though Kafeville still features beans from around the world including countries in Africa and South America as well as locally sourced Vietnamese beans, the new location is not as cozy or convenient as its original location.

Kafeville is located at 1 Bắc Sơn, Ngọc Hồ, Ba Đình, Hà Nội, Vietnam.

Haka Coffee

** Important Update – Haka Coffee has permanently closed. **

Situated across from Hoan Kiem Lake, renovated Haka Coffee serves third wave coffee drinks in a comfortable space with plenty of seating and free internet.

Prices are higher here compared to other coffee shops, perhaps due to the cafe’s prime location. At least the drinks are generously sized, which helps justify the higher prices.

Haka Coffee was located at 39 Hàng Dầu, Hà Nội, Lý Thái Tổ, Hoàn Kiếm, Hà Nội, Vietnam. It has permanently closed.

Cafe Pho Co

Hidden behind a boutique and accessed by winding, spiral staircases, Cafe Pho Co is worth the extra effort for the view alone. Add intriguing drink options like Yogurt Coffee and Egg Coffee (see below), and this cafe is not to be missed,

Pro Tip Go the view of Hoan Kiem Lake but stay for the coffee.

Cafe Pho Co is located at 11 Hàng Gai, Hàng Trống, Hoàn Kiếm, Hà Nội, Vietnam.

Tranquil Coffee And Books

Working at the original Tranquil Coffee and Books makes us feel tranquil. Dedicated to lovers of coffee and books, the quiet bi-level cafe is a great place to work while enjoying crafted coffees and fruity concoctions.

Tranquil comes alive at night, especially on open mic nights when musicians and other artists perform to a friendly crowd. Check the cafe’s calendar for open mic nights and other special events.

The original Tranquil Coffee and Books is located at Cửa Đông Hoàn Kiếm Vietnam, 5 Nguyễn Quang Bích, Cửa Đông, Hanoi, Vietnam.

Gấu Coffee

Gấu Coffee differentiates itself from the pack by offering a tempting selection of croissants and bread in addition to excellently prepared cappuccinos, flat whites and lattes.

With a second-floor balcony overlooking the Old Quarter, Gấu is a great spot to develop a second wind during a day of sightseeing in Hanoi.

Gấu Coffee is located at 33 Hàng Bè, Hàng Bạc, Hoàn Kiếm, Hà Nội, Vietnam.

Hanoi Tea Houses

Since there’s only so much coffee even we can drink, we also enjoy exploring the Hanoi tea houses. In addition to offering a herbal alternative to coffee, Hanoi tea houses provide zen retreats from the busy city.

Thưởng Trà Quán

** Important Update – Thưởng Trà Quán has permanently closed. **

Proving that coffee shops are not the only secret spots in Hanoi, Thưởng Trà Quán is a hidden oasis in the center of Hanoi. This traditional tea shop serves a variety of traditional tea leaves that customers can brew at the table.

If you’re lucky, one of the staff will conduct a tea ceremony at your table. The traditional service is icing on the tea cake. Speaking of cake, they have that too.

Thưởng Trà Quán was located at 2E Tông Đản, Lý Thái Tổ, Hoàn Kiếm, Hà Nội, Vietnam. It has permanently closed.

Truong Xuan Teahouse

It turns out that milk tea doesn’t actually have any milk in it, at least not at Truong Xuan Teahouse. We enjoyed a pleasant break here after touring the Temple of Literature.

Like most drinks in Vietnam, milk tea is sweetened. Other tea options at the chill teahouse include jasmine, lotus and ginger.

Pro Tip Take a quick walk to Truong Xuan Teahouse after visiting the Temple of Literature. You can reflect on the memorable site while you relax with your tea.

Truong Xuan Teahouse is located at Ngô Tất Tố, Dong Da, Hà Nội, Vietnam.

Hanoi Egg Coffee

At Giang Cafe, second-generation owner Tri Hoa Nguyen makes decadent egg coffee by adding a sweet topping of whisked chicken egg yolk, Vietnamese powder, sweetened condensed milk, butter and cheese over a base of strong coffee.

Crowds flock for the chance to drink Nguyen’s concoction even though imposters line the street in an attempt to entice travelers into their shops.

Is egg coffee a coffee or is it a dessert? The answer is “yes” to that question, but the bigger question is when can we drink it again.

Watch our Hanoi Egg Coffee video to find out more about this unique Hanoi coffee dessert.

Giảng Cafe is located at 39B Nguyễn Hữu Huân, Lý Thái Tổ, Hoàn Kiếm, Hà Nội, Vietnam.

We weren’t impressed by the Hanoi beer scene during our visit in 2016. Unlike Saigon, craft beer hadn’t hit the city yet. Fast forward to the present and thing have changed in a big way.

Hanoi now has an active craft beer scene with breweries like FURBREW , busy brewpubs and bustling bars. We taste-tested a good bit of beer for ‘research purposes’ and these are our favorite places to drink beer in Hanoi:

Pasteur Street Brewing Company

We liked the beer at Pasteur Street’s flagship Saigon location so much that we produced a video about the brewery and its unique beer flavors. After multiple visits at the Hanoi brewpub, we’re pleased to report that Pasteur Street has another winner in the northern part of the country.

Bigger and brighter than the original Saigon location, Hanoi’s Pasteur Street brewpub offers a comprehensive selection of the Vietnam brew including IPAs, Saisons and specialty beers with Vietnamese ingredients like Marou Chocolate (see above), coffee, lemongrass and dragon fruit.

Pro Tip The brewpub also serves a selection of bar food like chicken wings and chips. At the time of our visits, snacks were free for those who ordered full pours, pints and flights between 3 pm and 7 pm.

Pasteur Street Brewing Company is located at 1 Ấu Triệu, Hàng Trống, Hoàn Kiếm, Hà Nội, Vietnam.

Standing Bar

Overlooking Truc Bach Lake, Standing Bar is a full-service bar with an admirable selection of local beers and ciders. Opened by the owner of Highway4 (see above), Standing Bar has 19 taps, each serving a different Vietnamese beer or cider.

The taproom also offers small plates like fat chips and yakitori for those who prefer to eat while they drink. We shared an order of fat chips and found them to be tasty as well as fat.

Standing Bar is located at 170 Trấn Vũ, Trúc Bạch, Ba Đình, Hà Nội, Vietnam.

Hanoi Cocktails

New Hanoi bars are embracing the global cocktail movement and adding local twists. Though not as popular as other beverages yet, cocktails are definitely up and coming in the city that rarely does things part way.

If you only visit one cocktail bar in Hanoi, go here:

Nê Cocktail Bar

At first glance, the menu at Nê looks ordinary with drinks like mojitos , caipirinhas and daiquiris . But keep reading the expat-friendly bar’s menu to see an exciting selection of creative cocktails including the signature Pho cocktail which features ingredients like gin, Cointreau, star anise, cardamom and cinnamon.

This drink alone is worth a special trip to the shabby chic pub located on a block littered with cheap Hanoi food stalls. If you’re a pho fan, then this drink is a must.

Seriously, the Pho cocktail is not to be missed. Half the fun of mixologist Pham Tien Tiep’s unique beverage is watching its fiery creation while the other half is imbibing the drink that actually tastes like its soupy namesake.

We also recommend the O Mai made with gin, apricot, vanilla, apple, ginger and honey.

Nê Cocktail Bar is located at 3B Tống Duy Tân, Hàng Bông, Hoàn Kiếm, Hà Nội, Vietnam.

Hanoi Food Tour Video

Watch our YouTube video to see us take a self-guided Hanoi food tour.

Things To Do In Hanoi

As the capital of Vietnam, Hanoi is a city rich in history and filled with culture. Here are some suggestions for what you can do when you visit Hanoi:

• Take a seven-hour Hanoi day tour and see all of the major sites.
• Ride a cyclo on a hidden Hanoi afternoon tour .
• Learn about village life at a Lang Toi cultural show.
• Leave the city for a Halong Bay day tour .

Don’t worry. You’ll have plenty of time to eat in Hanoi before, during and after you explore the city. Since we loved touring Hanoi, we’re happy to suggest that you do the same.

Where To Stay In Hanoi

As you research Hanoi hotels and if your budget allows, we recommend that you consider staying at the Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi . Centrally located and well-appointed with a pool and modern amenities, the Sofitel is the city’s most historic hotel.

Whether you stay for one night or longer, you will feel pampered and special during your visit. Previous guests include Joan Baez, Brad Pitt, Angelina Jolie and Charlie Chaplin.

Frequently Asked Questions

Top Hanoi foods include Pho, Bun Cha and Egg Coffee. You’ll want to eat them all at least once when you visit Vietnam’s capital city. 

With a few upscale exceptions, Hanoi restaurants typically fit into the cheap eats category.

No. Tipping is optional in Vietnam.

Anthony Bourdain visited Bánh Cuốn Nóng Kim Thoa, Bún chả Hương Liên, Cussing Noodles and Hơi Hải Xồm while filming the eighth season of Parts Unknown .

Phil Rosenthal has not yet filmed an episode of Somebody Feed Phil in Hanoi.

People typically eat dinner between 6pm and 8pm in Hanoi.

Reservations are not typically necessary at restaurants in Hanoi. However, you should make reservations at special occasion restaurants to avoid dining disappointment.

Hanoi does not currently have any Michelin-starred restaurants.

Hanoi Planning Checklist

• Buy discounted travel insurance from Heymondo .
• Find a great Hanoi hotel via Booking.com , Expedia or Hotels.com .
• Find an apartment in Hanoi with a kitchen .
• Arrange car service from the airport .
• Buy a universal travel adaptor from Amazon so you can charge your laptop, cell phone and camera in Asia.
• Buy a Hanoi travel guide from Amazon so that you don’t miss any bites or sites.
• Book a fun Hanoi tour with GetYourGuide or Viator .
• Book a tasty Hanoi food experience .
• Get an online Vietnam visa .

Hungry For More In Vietnam?

About the Authors

Daryl and Mindi Hirsch

Saveur Magazine’s BEST TRAVEL BLOG award winners Daryl and Mindi Hirsch share their culinary travel experiences and recipes on the 2foodtrippers website. Since launching the site in 2012, they’ve traveled to over 40 countries in their quest to bring readers a unique taste of the world.

Disclosures

Article Updates We update our articles regularly. Some updates are major while others are minor link changes and spelling corrections. Let us know if you see anything that needs to be updated in this article. Funding We self-funded our multiple trips to Hanoi. Special Thanks We thank Mai Nguyen from the Hanoi food blog Tho Loves Food . Our visits to Hanoi would not have been the same without her friendship and guidance.

Original Publication Date: September 16, 2016 Republish Date: September 16, 2018

Rita Corpuz

Wednesday 13th of November 2019

What a amazing article, very informative for people preparing their visit and a food lover like me!

Pepe Samson

Monday 7th of October 2019

I love Pasteur Street! Tried them in Saigon. I cant wait to go to Hanoi next month. Thank you so much for this blog post YOU GUYS ARE THE BEST

Tuesday 15th of October 2019

Have an awesome time in Hanoi and eat all the pho!

Thursday 7th of March 2019

I ate Phở every corner in the world from USA, France, Australia, Paris ...but Phở in Hanoi is the best of the best...I flied back to Hanoi and stay for few days during my trip just for Pho ,( Bat Dan ) or Phở Thin, egg Coffee and Cha Ca Lã Vong .. it is amazing

Felix Goody

Saturday 23rd of February 2019

This is awesome.

Tuesday 26th of February 2019

Thanks Felix!!

Sunday 13th of January 2019

You should add Boba Milk Tea into the drink list! This is the new locals' (the young ones) favourite recently.

Get our free guide to eating like a local when you travel.

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Local Guide: 20 Famous Food In Hanoi That Every Visitor Should Try

Hanoi, a city where every alleyway and street corner boasts a symphony of flavors, offers a culinary landscape as vibrant as its culture. From steaming bowls of Phở to the intricate layers of Bánh mì , the food here tells a story of tradition, innovation, and the sheer joy of taste. Each dish is a testament to the city’s rich gastronomic heritage, inviting visitors to indulge in an unforgettable journey of the senses.

In this article, we will uncover the 20 dishes of famous food in Hanoi , showcasing the heart of the city’s culinary landscape. So ready for your appetite!

What Is So Special About the Food In Hanoi?

The flavors of Hanoi’s food are as rich and storied as the city itself, with a history that stretches back over a millennium. In Hanoi, what to eat is often decided by the season and time of day, weaving the city’s food closely with the daily lives of its people. This gives each meal a sense of time and place, making dining here a truly local experience.

Hanoi food specifically attracts foreigners with its unique flavors

Flavors of Elegance

Hanoi’s culinary identity sets itself apart from other regions in Vietnam with its subtle sophistication and emphasis on balance. Unlike the bold, fiery flavors of the South or the bold zest of Central Vietnam, Hanoi’s dishes are characterized by a delicate complexity that honors the natural taste of the ingredients. Here, the broth of a Phở is not merely a soup but a clear, aromatic essence that has been perfected over hours of simmering. The use of spices is less about heat and more about creating a gentle depth of flavor that is almost poetic in its restraint.

Northern Climate’s Influence

Moreover, the northern climate, with its cooler temperatures, has given rise to a cuisine that favors warming and comfort without the heavy use of oils or overwhelming richness. This is evident in the preference for broths over purely coconut milk-based dishes, which are more common in the warmer south. Additionally, the abundance of freshwater resources around the Red River Delta contributes to the prominence of fish and other aquatic ingredients in Hanoi’s food, differentiating it from the coastal seafood or the mountainous fare of other regions.

Hanoi’s Taste of Tradition

In Hanoi, eating is also an act of cultural immersion, where the quiet refinement of the north’s heritage is savored in each carefully crafted dish. It is this distinctive blend of subtlety, seasonality, and sophistication that not only defines Hanoi’s food scene but also invites travelers to a taste experience unlike anywhere else in the country.

>> Read More: What To Do In Hanoi For 3 Days

20 Famous Food In Hanoi That Definitely Win Your Heart

Phở , the quintessential Vietnamese dish, has not only captured the hearts of locals but has also gained international acclaim, earning the 34th spot on TasteAtlas’s list of global favorites in 2022. This deceptively simple noodle soup is all about its broth, a labor of love that involves simmering beef or chicken for hours to coax a profoundly flavorful, aromatic liquid.

Pho bo, a traditional dish in Vietnam

Served over flat rice noodles, Phở bò (beef noodle soup) is particularly beloved. It’s interesting to note that, unlike its southern counterpart, Hanoi’s Phở does not typically include meatballs. Phở gà (chicken noodle soup), though less internationally renowned, is no less cherished in Hanoi. Crafted with the choicest cuts of chicken, such as the succulent wing or thigh, and often accompanied by a soft poached egg or even chicken ovaries for the early risers, this variation of Phở offers a lighter yet equally indulgent flavor profile.

A testament to Hanoi’s French colonial past, Bánh mì is a delightful fusion of Vietnamese flavors and French culinary tradition. The Hanoi version holds true to simplicity, typically filled with roasted chicken or pork, homemade pork-liver pâté, headcheese, and a vibrant mix of fresh vegetables, including carrots, cilantro, cucumber, and a touch of chili sauce. Each bite of this Hanoi baguette is a rapturous blend of spicy, salty, sour, savory, and aromatic notes that dance on the palate.

While Bánh mì has seen variations across Vietnam, Hanoi’s rendition is particularly celebrated for its balance and the quality of its ingredients. Available from the humblest street food stands to the most upscale restaurants, this beloved baguette sandwich offers a quick, delicious meal for breakfast or lunch and stands as a proud symbol of the city’s vibrant street food scene long before it became a global culinary sensation.

As a lunchtime favorite, Bún chả is a harmonious blend of chargrilled pork belly and patties, served with a side of rice noodles and a bowl of diluted vinegar fish sauce for dipping. The magic of Bún chả lies in the interplay of flavors and textures. To fully enjoy this dish, one must combine the noodles, herbs, and a mixture of pork in one bite, adding a bit of fish sauce to each spoonful. For those looking for an extra indulgence, pairing the dish with nem (fried spring rolls) elevates the experience to a new level of satisfaction.

Savor the vibrant flavors of grilled pork, fresh herbs, and rice noodles

Each establishment adds its personal touch to the marinade and sauce, guaranteeing a unique taste adventure at every stop. The pork, marinated for hours and grilled over red charcoal, infuses Bún chả with a smoky, savory depth that is simply irresistible.

Bún ốc is a noodle soup that brings the waterways of Vietnam to your bowl with its key ingredient: freshwater snails. Nestled among the snails are slices of ripe tomatoes, tender tofu, and a sprinkle of chopped scallions. Some vendors might also offer a more lavish bowl with added beef shank, Chả lụa (Vietnamese pork sausage), or even a fertilized duck egg for the more daring palate.

The broth, distinguished by its light and sour taste, owes its tanginess to wine vinegar. A side of sliced banana stems and an array of herbs accompany this dish, making it a medley of textures and flavors that are both refreshing and satisfying.

>> Read More: Tours In Hanoi – A Curated Guide To Experiencing The Capital’s Best

Chả cá Lã Vọng

Chả cá , often known by its full name Chả cá Lã Vọng , is more than just a dish; it’s a culinary tradition that has been passed down through generations. Traditionally made with snakehead fish, this dish is a spectacle to behold as it is cooked right at your table amidst a fragrant cloud of fresh dill and scallions.

Exquisite dishes in Hanoi (Source: Collected)

The Doan family, originally serving this dish to revolutionaries at 14 Hang Son Street, eventually opened their home as a restaurant specializing in this single dish. The restaurant and the dish itself took their name from the statue of Lã Vọng, the wise old man, that adorned their entrance.

As you sit down, the aromatic dill and scallions signal the start of a memorable meal. Served with vermicelli, peanuts, and a variety of spices, Chả cá Lã Vọng is traditionally enjoyed with M ắm tôm , a strong, fermented shrimp paste. While mắm tôm is an acquired taste, a small sample may be all you need to appreciate its unique contribution to the dish.

For those looking for an energizing snack to break up the afternoon, Nộm bò khô is a tantalizing option. This beef jerky salad is a vibrant mix of textures and flavors, featuring the crunch of green papaya and carrots, all mellowed by a seasoned fish sauce. The chewy, savory beef jerky brings a rich contrast to the crisp vegetables. For the culinary adventurers, there’s even a version with beef spleen and tripe, offering a different layer of texture and taste that’s sure to intrigue.

Nộm bò khô is a dish that demonstrates the Hanoian love for balancing flavors and is a must-try for those wanting to experience the full spectrum of the city’s street food delights.

Bún đậu Mắm tôm

Bún đậu Mắm tôm is a rustic yet remarkably flavorful dish that has transitioned from the rural kitchens of Vietnam to the bustling streets of Hanoi. The foundation of this meal is simple: soft vermicelli rice noodles and golden-brown fried tofu. However, diners now have the luxury of tailoring their dish with a variety of tantalizing toppings such as Chả cốm (a patty made from young green rice and pork), boiled pork, and even pork tripe.

Explore this iconic street food with bold flavors

The soul of Bún đậu , however, lies in the Mắm tôm sauce—a pungent shrimp paste that’s both the star and the acquired taste for many. While its robust aroma can be challenging for foreign palates, the dish can be enjoyed with a milder fish sauce alternative. The combination of the tofu’s subtle sweetness and nuttiness with the aromatic herbs creates a beautifully balanced dish that’s become a beloved staple among locals and a must-try for visitors seeking an authentic Hanoian culinary experience.

Mì vằn thắn

Mì vằn thắn is Hanoi’s unique take on noodles with dumplings, setting itself apart from its southern counterparts with a distinct Hanoian twist. Each bowl is a thoughtfully crafted symphony of flavors, featuring a generous garnish of fresh chives, earthy shiitake mushrooms, and crispy pork rind. The pièce de résistance is the large, fried dumpling that sits atop the bowl, offering an unexpected and delightful crunch that complements the soft, savory dumplings hidden within the broth.

This dish exemplifies the Hanoian dedication to creating depth and complexity in their noodle dishes, ensuring each bite is a new discovery in texture and taste.

When the summer heat of Hanoi sets in, Bún cá becomes the go-to dish to refresh and rejuvenate. This fish noodle soup is a wonderful blend of sweet and sour, achieved by incorporating juicy pineapples and ripe tomatoes into the broth. The soup is brimming with rice noodles, Vietnamese celery, and crispy pieces of fried tilapia, creating a delightful interplay of textures.

Served with fresh herbs and pickled bamboo shoots, Bún cá is a light yet satisfying meal that captures the essence of summer in Hanoi. Available in street stalls throughout the city, it’s a favorite among those seeking a nourishing and vibrant dish to beat the heat.

>> See Tour: The Very Best of Vietnam

Bún thang is a culinary mosaic of Hanoi, often crafted from the leftovers of the Tet holiday. Its soulful broth is simmered from chicken bones, pork, and shiitake mushrooms, a testament to the resourcefulness of Vietnamese cuisine. While the original recipe featured luxurious sa sung (sea worms) and ca cuong for added depth, these days, the dish is adorned with more accessible yet equally complex condiments.

Bún thang offers you refined simplicity and subtle flavors

A bowl of Bún thang is a tapestry of flavors: delicate strands of omelet, savory C hả giò (pork rolls), minced pork, shrimp floss, salted egg, and dried radish come together in harmony. The result is a dish with a unique savory character that lingers on the palate, leaving you with a sense of complete gastronomic contentment.

Miến xào lươn

Miến xào lươn offers a delightful escape for seafood aficionados. This dish features stir-fried glass noodles bathed in a rich eel-based broth, creating a canvas for the main attraction: crispy eel. The dish is enhanced with crunchy bean sprouts, a delicate egg, fresh cucumber slices, golden fried shallots, and aromatic purple perilla. Accompanying this dish, as is customary in Hanoi, is a plate of fresh herbs, thinly sliced banana blossoms, and more bean sprouts, allowing diners to tailor the texture and freshness to their taste.

Miến xào lươn is a perfect symphony of taste and texture, marrying the sea’s bounty with the earth’s gifts.

Bánh cuốn , a dish so esteemed that it has been named one of the top 10 dishes in the world by the Australian magazine Traveller, is a hallmark of Hanoi’s culinary landscape. The steamed rice rolls from Thanh Tri Ward are hailed as the most authentic expression of this dish in the capital. These delicate parcels are filled with a savory blend of ground meat (chicken, shrimp, pork), ear mushrooms, and onions. They are accompanied by Chả lụa (Vietnamese ham), steamed beansprouts, and crisp cucumbers, all encased in a translucent rice flour sheet.

Despite the rich fillings, the flavor of Bánh cuốn is surprisingly mild, inviting you to dunk them into the accompanying dipping sauce for an extra kick. Whether for a light breakfast or a midday snack, Bánh cuốn is a staple that can be savored from the myriad of roadside vendors dotting the streets of Hanoi, each offering their own version of this beloved dish.

Bánh gối , or Pillow cake, is a delightful indulgence that captivates the senses with its unique shape and enticing crunch. This Vietnamese dumpling is a treasure trove of textures and flavors, tightly encased in a rice-flour pastry. The filling, a savory combination of finely chopped glass noodles, wood ear mushrooms, minced pork, and a whole quail egg, promises a burst of flavor with every bite. Deep-fried to golden perfection, Bánh gối is typically enjoyed with a tangy dipping sauce crafted from garlic, chili, sugar, lime juice, and fish sauce, which cuts through the richness of the pastry.

For a refreshing contrast, it is often accompanied by crisp lettuce and fragrant coriander leaves, offering a reprieve from the indulgent greasiness. Found at any market or street corner in Hanoi, Bánh gối beckons as a quintessential treat for breakfast or a late afternoon snack.

Xôi xéo is a vibrant staple that brightens the morning streets of Hanoi with its sunshine-yellow hue. A simple yet satisfying street food, its foundation is sticky rice imbued with turmeric powder, which, after being soaked and steamed, radiates a warm, golden color. Paired with this are mung beans, transformed into a creamy paste through meticulous steaming and mashing. The dish is crowned with crispy fried shallots and a splash of savory soy sauce, creating a harmony of soft and crunchy textures.

Enjoy the sticky yellow rice with unique tastes

While the basic preparation is a delight in itself, Xôi xéo can be elevated with an assortment of toppings such as pâté, boiled chicken, chả lụa (Vietnamese ham), marinated pork belly, or preserved eggs, allowing for a heartier meal that can carry you through the day.

>> Read More: 22 Best Things To Do In Hanoi

Bún riêu is a noodle soup that warms the soul, with its vibrant red broth signifying a feast for the taste buds. Despite its striking color, derived from annatto seed oil, the dish is inviting and not as intense as it may appear. The soup is a medley of rice noodles, ripe tomatoes, soft tofu, and various meats, each lending its own distinct texture and flavor. The magic of Bún riêu lies in how the broth infuses the tofu, ensuring that each mouthful bursts with the rich, savory essence of the soup.

A labor of love, the depth of the dish is a reflection of the care put into its preparation, making it a comforting and satisfying meal that resonates with the culinary spirit of Hanoi.

Chả cốm , or green rice patties, is a dish that weaves a tale of resilience and ingenuity straight from the heart of Vietnam’s history. Born from the storms that once threatened the rice harvest, C ốm represents the transformation of adversity into a cherished culinary tradition. These tender green rice flakes offer a gentle sweetness and a soft texture that embody the essence of autumn in Hanoi, yet are adored all year round.

Chả cốm , crafted from a mixture of lean pork, pork paste, and Cốm , forms delicate patties fried to golden perfection. The result is a captivating crunch on the outside with a moist, fragrant interior that harmoniously blends the savory notes of pork with the fresh, grassy undertones of the new rice. This dish is not merely food; it is a bite of Hanoi’s soul, a savory slice of history that continues to enchant with each mouthful.

Kem Tràng Tiền

After the symphony of savory indulgences Hanoi has offered, the melody of kem Tràng Tiền , or Tràng Tiền ice cream, plays like a sweet coda. This traditional dessert has captured the hearts of Hanoians for generations, not only for its delectable range of flavors but also for its pure, natural taste.

Amidst a sea of both local and international ice cream brands, this sweet treat (the creamy scoops, the playful popsicles, the classic cones, or the chewy mochi) stands out with its distinctive flair. Flavors such as vanilla, strawberry, taro, green tea, and durian dance on the palate, inviting locals and travelers alike to the iconic No. 35, Tràng Tiền Street in Hoan Kiem District for a taste of nostalgia.

Cà phê trứng

Cà phê trứng , or egg coffee, is a Hanoi delight that stands as a testament to the city’s ability to marry traditional robusta beans with the surprising richness of egg yolk. This creamy concoction is a dreamy departure from your average coffee, offering a luscious layer of sweet egg foam that floats atop the intense coffee like a morning mist. Nestled under the soothing shade of khaya trees, one can immerse in the quintessential Hanoi experience: a cup of hot, fluffy Cà phê trứng in hand, the world buzzing by on a river of motorbikes.

The irresistible creamy layer of egg yolk atop a brewed cup of Vietnamese coffee 

Though this unique beverage can be found throughout Hanoi’s cafes, connoisseurs often flock to the legendary Giang Cafe or Dinh Cafe for the most authentic sip of this velvety treat.

>> Read More: Best 5 Vietnam Destinations For Coffee Lovers

Ô mai is Hanoi’s quintessential snack, a testament to the art of preserving and flavoring that has been perfected over generations. This snack, typically enjoyed by locals and sought after by curious travelers, consists of a variety of fruits that have been meticulously dried and sweetened or salted, often with a hint of spice or a whisper of ginger. The result is a delightful mélange of flavors and textures, ranging from the chewiness of dried apricots to the tender bite of kumquats. Ô mai can be both tart and sweet, savory and spicy, capturing the complex palate of Vietnamese cuisine in every bite.

It’s not only a treat for the taste buds but also a cultural experience, often shared among friends or brought home as a souvenir to savor the taste of Hanoi.

Chè and Tào phớ

Chè is not just a dessert; it is a Vietnamese tradition served in a bowl, a culinary poem composed of varying textures and flavors that sing of the land’s bounty. In Hanoi, Chè is an umbrella term for a variety of sweet soups, puddings, and beverages that can be enjoyed hot or cold, depending on the season or one’s mood. Each variation of Chè is a unique blend of ingredients such as mung beans, black-eyed peas, tapioca pearls, jelly, and fruit, all swimming in a sweet coconut milk or syrup base. The joy of Chè is in its versatility; it can be simple or complex, tailored to the individual’s preference.

Tào phớ , or tofu pudding, is a symphony of simplicity and refreshment that soothes the soul on Hanoi’s balmy summer days. This humble dessert has etched its place in the city’s culinary canon, offering a gentle reprieve from the sweltering heat with its smooth, silken texture and cooling essence. At its core, Tào phớ is a harmonious blend of pureed soybeans settled into a delicate pudding, lightly bathed in a jasmine-infused sugar syrup, and crowned with a refreshing layer of ice.

>> See Tour: A Food Lover’s Tour of Vietnam

Try All The Famous Food In Hanoi With Asia Pioneer Travel

Hanoi’s vibrant food scene is an epicurean labyrinth of flavors that are as enthralling as they are delicious. From the bustling street vendors offering local meals to the tranquil cafés where one can savor the unique taste, each dish is a testament to the city’s rich cultural tapestry. These famous food in Hanoi are culinary milestones that define the very essence of this historic city.

So do not hesitate to Craft Your Culinary Trip in Vietnam with APT to ensure that every palate is delighted and every craving is satisfied. Let’s dive into a world where every meal is a celebration, every bite a new discovery in Vietnam’s storied capital!

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Classic Vietnam Tour: Ho Chi Minh City to Hanoi

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Vietnam Off the Beaten Path

• +84 967 25 8586

Flavors of Hanoi

Visiting hanoi.

Get the best of what Hanoi has to offer with  these Foodie Experiences by the #1 Food Tour Company

HOW IT WORKS

Foodie experiences, heart and soul of hanoi old quarter, hanoi street food tour, hanoi home-hosted dinner, hanoi cooking class, food. culture. history..

“Since coming to Asia, I’ve never met such a great group of people. It’s been food, folks, and fun like I’ve never experienced. There are, by Vietnamese standards, party animals – warm, generous, thoughtful, kind – occasionally very funny, sincere in both their hospitality and their fierce pride. I don’t want to leave.”

— Anthony Bourdain , A Cook’s Tour: In Search of the Perfect Meal .

WHAT CUSTOMERS SAY ABOUT US

Sandra & Bobby, TX The “Heart & Soul of Hanoi Old Quarter” tour really lived up to the hype! We learned interesting facts while touring the neighborhood, received generous & delicious portion sizes of a variety of foods. Joe was passionate about food and really took the time to get to know all four of us. Most importantly, the food was AMAZING! This tour was fantastic and I would 100% recommend it for every Hanoi visitors! I made sure my friends will contact FOH when they come.

Deborah & James Wallace Wolfe, WA Though my travel agent recommended them, we were unsure about the tour, but we went and LOVED it! They are so much more than just being walked from place to place, eating Hanoi street food. The food is the vessel, but you also get to experience the city in a way that goes way below the surface. FOH made me feel like a true insider! Would highly recommend to any foodie or someone looking to see a different side of the normal Hanoi touristy activities.

Kate & Michael, NY It's not just about the food, although that was delicious. Lots of history, too. Aside from the great food we saw various entertainment spots famous in the area, met the family who make rice noodles for pho restaurants in the city, learned what lies under Hoan Kiem Lake, walked through hidden alleys where people share really small pace, and lots of other interesting facts. Highly recommend this company!

THE STORY OF A FOODIE

Meet Joe, Owner & Founder

My first delicious street food in Hanoi city was in 2002 when I was leaving my village for the college. It was a lovely bowl of pipping hot noodle soup, Pho, served by a family living on the bank of the Red River, and that was the best fresh noodle with the richest stock I’ve ever eaten. The flavors of the noodle dish that day was the beginning of Flavors of Hanoi, even though I didn’t realize it at the time.

• © 2024 Flavors of Hanoi. All rights reserved.
• Tel: +84 967 25 8586
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Eat Like A Local- Hanoi Street Food & Hidden Path

Experience hosted by local guide.

3 hours · Hosted in English

Once-in-a-lifetime

Guests say it's special and unique.

Super storytelling

Guests say this Host tells great stories.

Excellent value

Guests say it's well worth the price.

• Description

瑜嘉 Rated 5 out of 5 verified

We got to try out a lot of dishes that were more commonly eaten by the local, and we also walked through the hidden alleyway and saw some of the housing due to history(which was one of the main highlights for me.)

Alecka Rated 5 out of 5 verified

I had a great time with Kien! It was just me so it felt like a tour with a friend. Although it was a food tour I also learned a lot about Vietnamese history and culture, which was my goal. The food was also delicious and unique (to me). Halfway through I was so full, I could barely eat more but we still trekked on and he made sure I got to at least taste everything. I even went home with leftovers. Definitely go HUNGRY. This tour was a great way to get introduced to the Old Quarter. Plus I loved learning that this company does their best to give back to the community. I definitely recommend!

Paweł Rated 5 out of 5 verified

I highly recomend this tour ! Cong is greate guide, he know pleaces where owners makes their food for generations (And he allso know that owners :p) He ll show you temples hiden on quiet streets just neext to common rush of Hanoi 🙂 He knows a lot of stories and you can talk with Him about every topic 🙂 5 star tour !!!

Will Rated 5 out of 5 verified

Amazing tour! One of the best food tours I have taken. Angelina was very friendly and made us feel welcome from the start of the tour. We ate several different dishes throughout Hanoi and she explained some of the cultural and economic landscape of the city. I highly recommend this tour, especially if you’re unfamiliar with Vietnamese food and want to try some different options.

Deborah Rated 5 out of 5 verified

This was a great experience for us as it was our first full day in Hanoi! The guide, Minh, was so friendly and brought us to many many yummy food places! The food was really suited to our tastes 💕 we even went back a few days later!

Jaideep Rated 5 out of 5 verified

I had the delightful opportunity to embark on Cong's Night Food Tour in Hanoi, and it was nothing short of a gastronomic revelation. The tour takes you on a journey through the bustling streets of Hanoi at night, showcasing the vibrant food scene that this city is famous for. Must try if you are in Hanoi!

Inez Rated 5 out of 5 verified

A fun experience where we tried many kinds of items we would have missed otherwise, like the chicken with sticky rice and local beer. I was also fascinated by the living conditions of the old quarter's residents. Our guide also chatted with us about local culture. There's an itinerary so it might feel a bit stiff at times, but it was good overall.

Alex Rated 5 out of 5 verified

I had such a good time on my tour! I was shown around to so many places that I would not have known about! A very personal experince I would recommend to anyone!

Love food and want to discover the hidden gems of Hanoi’s Old Quarter?  Join us! You’ll be welcomed into a friendly atmosphere with a local guide, whether you’re with friends, family, or alone. This experience will give you a taste of what it’s like to live in the real Hanoi.

We’ll start by sampling the city’s best dishes, followed by tales about the Vietnamese language and the Vietnam War. Don’t miss out on this unique opportunity!

Embark on a journey into Vietnamese culture as we wander through the Old Quarter and discover places known only to locals, such as the tiniest and longest alley and a secret temple. We’ll sample up to 10 delicious dishes, all unique to Hanoi. This experience is a perfect blend of food tasting and gaining insight into the history, culture, and way of life!

It is not just a food tour, but you will learn so much more about Vietnam’s history, culture, and language.

❤ Make sure that you’d be able to ask so many questions for me!

IMPORTANT DETAILS

✔️ 3-hour long guided walking tour ✔️ Meals & drinks ✔️ Hand-picked expert guide

❌ Gratuities

What to bring

Hat & sunscreen Walking shoes

Essential information

​You are allergic to something, notice our guides; they will help you to have a suitable menu for this adventure.

Meeting point: 72 Hang Bac

Reasons Why Food Tasting Tour Is Unique

If you’re visiting Hanoi, having a local friend to show you around on the first day is the best way to get the most out of your trip. Here are five reasons why our Hanoi food walking tour is so special

Explore Local Foods while discovering Cuisines & History

Food notes and places-to-go-after-this at the end of the tour, small group, help local businesses and young people, we have excellent reviews on tripadvisor and airbnb experience.

We are proud of our hard work to provide outstanding food-tasting experiences, as evidenced by our 230 excellent reviews on TripAdvisor and 120 five-star ratings on Airbnb . Experience the unique flavors of the area and support local businesses at the same time.

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I highly recomend this tour ! Cong is greate guide, he know pleaces where owners makes their food for generations (And he allso know that owners :p) He ll show you temples hiden on quiet streets just neext to common rush of Hanoi :) He knows a lot of stories and you can talk with Him about every topic :) 5 star tour !!!

Onard Rated 5 out of 5 verified

The tour was incredibly considerate which made for a tailored experience for the individual. There is a purposeful flow which helped explore the flavours of the old quartet very well, and several easy-to-locate places for your favourite dishes from the your and more!

Jessica Rated 5 out of 5 verified

Loved this tour!!! Not only did we learn a lot about the food of Hanoi but also lots of cultural information and other dining suggestions! A must do for anyone visiting Hanoi!!!

瑜嘉 verified

Alecka verified

Monika verified

We enjoyed the tour and all the food. The guide shared information on history and culture. Our kids appreciated how he made some tweaks to the route to take up past cool alleys and other stuff the kids found interesting.

Katie verified

We had a personal tour with Angelina and absolutely loved it! She was so informative and took us to delicious spots that we likely wouldn’t have know about. We felt like we got to experience a lot of the neighborhood on foot in a short period of time. Highly recommend!

Paweł verified

Hello, good day!

My name is Issac, and I have just booked the Hanoi Food Walking Tour with you for Oct 7. Could you please confirm the meeting point? Is it at 72 Hang Bac Street? Thank you!

@Issac: Hello Issac,

Thank you so much for booking the experience with us. I have just received the booking information. The meeting point is at 72 Hang Bac Street in the Old Quarter. Our host will be waiting for you by 9 AM on Oct 7th.

If you'd like to enjoy Hanoi more, these are our other local experiences: Stories from the Vietnam War at not-to-go-alone areas

https://onetripwithlocal.com/tour/stories-from-vietnam-war-at-not-to-go-alone-areas

Thanks again and we all look forward to hosting you. Best regards, Onetrip with local team

Hi, Are the food portions large, and how many stops will we have for food so we can be prepared?

Hello Bill,

Thanks for reaching out!

We try about 8-9 local dishes, but there are also many hidden spots to explore. We will have a good time walking around, so there's no need to worry about getting too full. While some dishes are larger, there are also small doughnuts and drinks available.

Thanks again and look forward to hosting you. Best,

Hello, I'm a vegan and my friends are not vegetarians. Can we all go on the food walking tour together? Thank you. John

This is Cong from OneTrip with the local team.

Yes, absolutely! The food tour offers a vegan option for every course, so you can still enjoy all of the delicious food while your friends enjoy their regular meals. We can also make suggestions on where to eat afterward if you want to explore other vegan-friendly options. Additionally, our tour guides are knowledgeable about the vegan menu items available at each stop.

We look forward to seeing you soon. Best, OneTrip with local team.

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Small Group Hanoi Street Food Walking Tour

• Private Hanoi Street Food Walking Tour
• Private Hanoi Street Food Tour With Mr.Ha
• Hanoi Food Tour On Motorbike
• Hanoi Vegan Food Tour
• Good Morning Hanoi
• Vietnamese Cooking Class
• Hanoi Seafood Tasting And Walking Tour
• Le Mat Snake Village Tour
• Vietnamese Recipes
• Travel News

For all the regions in over the world, it is said that food and beverage are important parts of the culture. In Vietnam, especially in Hanoi city, the local people here are also picky eaters, it is simple as they are spoiled with hundred of choices. Food is integral to the life in Hanoi, thus it is no better way to experience a day in this city like a local by being centered around eating. Joining Small Group Hanoi Street Food Tour is to let an expert lead the way to the best food stands or local restaurants in Hanoi Old Quarter. While filling up on the flavors that made Hanoi one of the world best destination for hungry travelers, you’ll also learn more about the culture, history as well as observing the local life in this thousand years old town.

• Duration: 3 hours
• 11:15 – 11:45 AM for Lunch option
• 05:45 – 06:15 PM for Dinner option
• Pick-up service is only available when your stay is located in Hanoi Old Quarter. If your stay is located outside the Old Quarter, please make your own way to the meeting point ( 41 Luong Van Can st., Hoan Kiem, Hanoi ) to join the tour
• Maximum 6 pax/group

On a 3 hours walking tour you’ll explore the culture, history of Hanoi , step into a world full of street food vendors. Unlike big cities all around the world, street food in Hanoi are not just hot dog carts and pretzel stands, we offer an opportunity to try out many different dishes at local food stand, family restaurants…

A rotating menu from day-to-day to represent the variety of delicious options, but tastings might include – but are subject to change: rice noodle soup with beef, rice noodle with chicken, rice noodle with grilled pork, snail, or dry noodle, sticky rice, along with various kinds of donut, steamed pancake or Vietnamese sandwiches.

Sample menu:

Pho (beef/chicken noodle), Bun Cha (Grilled Pork With Noodle), Banh Mi (Vietnamese Bread), Banh Cuon (Steamed Rice Pancake), Banh Xeo (Fried Rice Pancake), Nom Bo Kho (Green Papaya Salad With Dried Beef), Thit Xien Nuong (Street Pork Barbeque), Banh Ran Ngot (Sweet Rice Donut), Che  (Vietnamese Dessert), Ca Phe Trung (Egg Coffee)…

• Walking tour
• Pick-up in Hanoi Old Quarter
• English speak local guide
• Food tasting
• A bottle of water, coffee and beer

Tour exclusive

• Hotel drop-off
• Food and drinks, unless specified

Policies & Other Information

Cancellation by Customer

• More than 7 days before arrival: 10% of total tour price.
• Within 1 day to 7 days before arrival: 30% of total tour price.
• Within 12 hours to 24 hours before starting time: 50% of total tour price.
• Within 12 hours before starting time: 75% of total tour price.

Children Price

• Free of charge for babies (0 – 3 years old)
• Children from 4 to under 8 years old: 75% of adult rate
• Child from 9 years must pay the full adult rate

Pick-up service

• For group tour: the pick-up time will be flexible within 15 minutes (For example: For dinner time, the pick- up time will be between 17.45 and 18.15). Since we have to do several pick-up places, so your patience is always appreciated.
• For private tour: the pick-up time is up to the guest, it is customizable
• The hotel pick-up must be at in city central area, in case your hotel accommodation is outside of this area, please kindly inform us about that.
• Expert local guide – English Speaking Guide

Booking for Small Group Hanoi Street Food Walking Tour

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• Interesting Places in Hanoi
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• Hanoi “36 Old Streets”

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• Address: 4th Floor – 41 Luong Van Can St., Hoan Kiem, Hanoi
• Tel: +84 96 77 99 592 (Available on Whatsapp)
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3 Days in Hanoi Itinerary (2024) for Culture & Food Fans!

Table of Contents

This post may contain affiliate links to things like tours, hotels, Amazon associates and products. These help me earn a small commission at no additional charge to you.

Welcome to my Hanoi itinerary! After writing 5,000 words on Hanoi food and coffee alone, it’s clear I have A LOT to say about Vietnam ’s capital. If it’s your first time and you’re keen to suss out the top things to do during 3 days in Hanoi, as well as the best eats, coffees, hotels, hostels and day trips, keep reading.

HANOI ESSENTIALS E-sim data plan Copy of Lonely Planet Vietnam Getting there: flight ( Skyscanner ) / train / bus 12GoAsia Pre-book your Hanoi airport to city transfer Accommodation: Booking.com // Hostelworld Tours: GetYourGuide Essential reading: 101 Southeast Asia travel tips

How long to spend in Hanoi?

I’ll never tire of Hanoi. Teaming with scooters, reaching to the skies and bubbling with life, noise and street food, it’s one of the most interesting and overwhelming cities I know, and a must for your Asia bucket list . It’s not a place that could leave you without an opinion. Love it or hate, you’ll remember it forever while it won’t stop to remember your name. Like a bucking bronco, you’ll either enjoy the ride or it’ll send you flying (literally – I’ve narrowly escaped too many scooters collisions!) I want to spend forever but the average visitor spends around 3 days in Hanoi often as part of a bigger Southeast Asia itinerary . There are plenty of museums and cool neighbourhoods so 2 days would be tight. While you might want to spend 4 or even 5 days exploring quirky corners in the Old Quarter, you’ll also want to explore other parts of Northern Vietnam. For that reason, 3 days in Hanoi is optimum .

Related read: The ultimate 2 week Vietnam itinerary & my Northern Vietnam itinerary

Where to stay in Hanoi

There are so many places to stay during 3 days in Hanoi that you’ll be spoiled for choice. Obviously, the Old Quarter is the best for convenience and local life, but I also liked staying above quirky Hanoi Train Street . A couple of my favourite places to stay in Hanoi include the following.

• Hostel: For a comfy hostel in central Hanoi, I recommend Nexy Hostel . Rooms have cosy bunks with privacy curtains, and there are private options decorated with unique Hanoi wall murals, plus there’s a roof terrace, cafe and games room. Check availability from US$7 .
• Budget hotel: With a welcoming front desk and air-conditioned rooms, budget travellers can’t go wrong with Hanoi Holiday Hotel . It’s centrally located and has an onsite ATM and spa. Check availability from US$19 .
• Mid-range: Hanoi Garden Boutique Hotel & Spa is a charming Old Quarter Hotel with gorgeous rooms and artwork, plus a stellar breakfast and spa onsite. Check availability from US$28 .
• Splash-out: Seeing the Hanoi sights from La Sinfonía Majesty Hotel is seriously special and best enjoyed from the sky-high restaurant or rooftop bar, which has a 360-degree view.  The opulent interior blends classicism with modernism for a stylish but rejuvenating stay, and the spa and concierge services are superb. Check availability from US$70 .

Browse all Hanoi accommodation on Booking.com and Hostelworld .

3 day Hanoi itinerary

Let’s get stuck straight in. Later, I’ll run through how to get around, where to stay and what to eat. Let’s go…

Hanoi itinerary day 1 – Old Quarter & Hoan Kiem Lake

The description above about bucking broncos and scooter collisions? Pretty much about Hanoi’s Old Quarter. For such a busy and hectic place, there’s buckets of charm. From steaming cups of coffee to hidden temples, you’ll find quirky corners once then never see them again. A hundred people could go wandering and have totally different experiences. It’s a wonderland out there! Did you know many of the streets in the Old Quarter are named after what they used to sell (and in many cases still do)? Hàng Bạc was once the area of silversmiths and is now packed with jewellery shops, while Han Gai is famed for its silk and tailoring, and Lan Ong sells medicinal products. Have a wander around – it’s busy but a lot of fun.

Breakfast – banh cuon

Begin your 3 days in Hanoi with a local breakfast. My favourite Hanoian breakfast dish is banh cuon . Steamed rice batter is wrapped around a mix of pork and wood ear mushrooms and served with chilli, and fish sauce to dip, as well as a generous handful of herbs. In the Old Quarter, you’ll find banh cuon cooked fresh on hot plates at modest restaurants and street stalls for around 30k VND. 

Pull up a little red stool and dig in!

Related activity: small group Hanoi street food tour by foot or private tour with cyclo driver

Coffee in the Old Quarter

If you’re the kind of person that can’t function without coffee, you’re reading the right Hanoi itinerary. Check out my guide to the best cafes in Hanoi , a topic I worked selflessly and tirelessly to research 😉 In the Old Quarter, I’d recommend Loading T coffee shop set inside a repurposed French mansion and Cafe Dinh , a hidden-away cafe serving egg coffee, the most famous Hanoian beverage. This cafe is a mission to find so find it in my guide to the best egg coffee in Hanoi .

Other things to do in the Old Quarter

• Wander the various old guild streets and try to work out what they’re famous for.
• Go for a cheap beauty treatment. Massages in Hanoi are cheap!
• Shopping! You can buy souvenirs here from gorgeous painted coconut shell bowls to silk scarves, decorated notebooks and clothing. Don’t forget to haggle.
• Head inside pretty Bach Ma Temple, the oldest Buddhist temple in the city.
• Admire Joseph’s Cathedral, a neo-gothic cathedral and place of worship for 4 million catholic Vietnamese people (who knew?)

The French Quarter

Hanoi’s French Quarter is a picture of colonial grandeur. With oh-so-Asian scooters buzzing by, it’s a bizarre and intriguing sight to see. Don’t forget to gawp at the sunny yellow Opera House, or even come back later in the evening for a Cirque du Soleil-style show with talented local performers. Pay 600k a ticket.

Hoan Kiem Lake

Hoan Kiem Lake is the beating heart of Hanoi. Every day (and especially at weekends), locals come to the shores to chat, exercise and relax. They pounce on you in the friendliest way possible, keen to practise their English and check you’re having a great time. Nestled in the centre of Hoan Kiem is the Turtle Tower , a poignant landmark for the Vietnamese. Its history is part fact and part myth, dating back to the days of Chinese rule and the fight for Vietnamese independence. Leader, Le Loi, was paramount in the bloody war and was said to have been handed a magic sword from an underwater dragon king which helped him defeat the enemy. 

Later, it was taken by a turtle who swum it to the bottom of what subsequently translates as the ‘Lake of the Restored Sword’. Real-life turtles genuinely do appear in the lake today, much to everyone’s excitement. Don’t miss Hanoi’s most visited Temple, Ngoc Son , is on an island in Hoan Kiem Lake. Cross the pretty red bridge to reach it and admire views across to the Turtle Tower. Useful info: Entrance is 30,000 VND and opening times are 8am-6pm.

If you’re hungry again and want to sample more food in the Old Quarter, I would suggest bun cha or banh mi.  Bun cha is my favourite Vietnamese dish, smoky pork balls bathed in a tangy broth with veggies and a side of rice noodles to dip. You can order it with ‘nem’ which are crispy, meat-filled spring rolls to dunk. Eat it at Bun Cha Nem at 6 Ngõ Trạm Street . Banh mi is a globally famous dish that can be tried at Banh Mi 25, a touristy joint that deserves the hype. From meaty baguettes to mushroom and tofu, there’s something for everyone, plus it’s cheap as chips. Just order two… no, scrap that, five! Check out my guides to Hanoi street food and finding the best banh mi in Vietnam .

Afternoon – Temple of Literature

My favourite temple while visiting Hanoi was the Temple of Literature. This is the site of Vietnam’s oldest university – it even features on the 100k banknote. It became a university 1,000 years ago and has survived various wars and disasters. Early graduates had their names engraved on a stone which can still be seen today. The Temple of Literature (local name, Van Mieu Mon) is a beautiful, chilled place to spend a couple of hours. Entry is 30k VND.

Evening – Water Puppet Show

If watching shows is your thing, may I recommend the Water Puppet Theatre . If you like having a clue what’s going on, may I recommend avoiding the Water Puppet Theatre. Originally a show for local children, this is now a tourist favourite that many people will ensure you is a must for 3 days in Hanoi. You probably won’t follow the plot (is there a plot?) but it’s a bit of a novelty if you’ve got time on your hands while visiting Hanoi. You can buy tickets for the 50-minute show on the door or online for $9. It’s right beside Hoan Kiem Lake.

Hanoi Night Market

If you’re visiting on a Friday, Saturday or Sunday, you can check out Hanoi Night Market which can be found in the heart of the Old Quarter. As well as street food from Vietnamese to Korean and fresh smoothies and juices, it’s one of the best places to shop for crafts, arts and souvenirs.

Bia Hoi Junction

Essential to any Hanoi itinerary is a trip to Bia Hoi Junction at the corner of Ta Hien and Lương Ngoc Quye . Locals and tourists alike flood the streets, perched on red stools and sipping pints of bia hoi, otherwise known as fresh beer.  This local drink is brewed on site but don’t think that makes it any weaker – a few too many pints will give you a very sore head the next day. It will definitely be worth it for an evening at Bia Hoi Junction especially as a pint can set you back as little as 5k VND (that’s 17p to Brits!).

Hanoi itinerary – day 2

Provided you didn’t drink too much beer hoi the night before, we’ve got a day of culture and cool neighbourhoods coming up.

Morning – Hanoi museums

The Women’s Museum : this is one of my all-time favourites, telling the story of Vietnamese women from the issues they face to their successes and bravery throughout Vietnamese history. You could easily spend a half-day as there’s plenty to see. Entrance is 30k VND and the museum can be found near the Old Quarter. Hoa Lo Prison : this is another important stop during three days in Hanoi. It’s where political prisoners were kept during French rule and US prisoners were kept during the war between Vietnam and America. During this second period, it became nicknamed the Hanoi Hilton despite its bleak living conditions.

While this museum has a dark history, it’s important in understanding Vietnam’s most important political events. You can visit from 8am-5pm seven days a week (apart from a lunch break from 11.30am to 1.30pm daily). Entrance is 30k VND. Thăng Long Imperial Citadel : this historic site, museum and park is another place to visit if you have time. You can easily spend 2-3 hours wandering around and learning about the history of Vietnam. Entry is just 30k VND. Military History Museum – dedicated to Vietnam military history, this is a fascinating stop for history buffs displaying everything from artefacts to aircraft.

Afternoon – Truc Bach and Tay Ho

I’d suggest leaving the Old Quarter behind and continuing your Hanoi itinerary to an area called Truc Bach . This ties in well with a tasty lunch because Truc Bach is famous for one specific Hanoian speciality. Set beside Truc Bach Lake, the commercialised corner of the neighbourhood is home to a giant floating Highlands Coffee boat where you can sip cold drinks or hire a swan pedalo to cruise around the lake. Alternatively, pay a visit to the much less touristy side where a relaxed community resides on Truc Bach island . Not only can you see how the locals live but you can head to Phở Cuốn Hương Mai restaurant known for serving pho cuon, tasty rice batter rolls filled with pork and served with chilli, lime and fish sauce to dip.

You can also try pho chien phong, deep-fried rice batter served with meat and veggies. This no-frills restaurant is busy and authentic: the real deal! After lunch, you can use my Truc Bach guide to explore the neighbourhood. The best thing to do nearby is check out Tran Quoc Pagoda , the oldest Buddhist temple in Hanoi known for its lakeside views and sunny yellow pagodas. It’s free to visit.

Other things to do in Truc Bach:

• Wander over the ornate bridge to pretty Đền Thủy Trung Tiên , also known as the Temple of the Dog.
• Sample tasty and affordable food at State-Run Foodshop Number 37 , a ration-themed restaurant with quirky military memorabilia on the walls.
• Look out over the lake where US senator John McCain crashed his plane during the war with the US.
• Visit cute cafes like Lang Thang Coffee & More.

West Lake / Tay Ho

For the late afternoon, head to West Lake, the biggest lake in Hanoi with a 17km shore length. Sunset from the banks is a reason to visit alone.  West Lake translates into Vietnamese as Tay Ho which is the name of the district beside it. This is where most of the Westerners who work as English teachers live. It might not sound highly cultural but an influx of stylish bars, cafes and restaurants have sprung up as a result. My favourite is Maison de Tet Decor which is a coffee shop and restaurant in a giant yellow repurposed mansion with gorgeous lake views. You can have a coffee or beer looking out over the lake for the perfect end to the day. I wouldn’t blame you for returning the following morning for a delicious brunch. For dinner, I hear great things about Bao Wow with its Instagrammable ‘I licked it so it’s mine’ sign. As well as great Asian food with plentiful veggie options, they stay open late and turn into a bar.

Hanoi itinerary – day 3 

Ho chi mausoleum.

For your final day in Hanoi, I would suggest checking out the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and a few other attractions nearby. Despite being a bit morbid, the body of the first Communist leader of Vietnam preserved in a glass case is an iconic site in Hanoi. Visit for just 10k VND from Tuesday-Thursday and Saturday-Sunday. While in the area, you can swing by One Pillar Pagoda . This isn’t the most impressive temple in Hanoi in my opinion but entrance is free and it doesn’t take long to walk the grounds and ponder how the pagoda stays upright with just one leg. From Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and One Pillar Pagoda, you’re nearby another of my favourite areas in Hanoi…

This neighbourhood may be little-known to tourists but it’s well worth a visit. The sleepy old-fashioned flower neighbourhood is one of the oldest in Hanoi, dating back 1,000 years. It doesn’t take long to explore so I’d recommend spending an hour or two wandering the streets and checking out local life, using my Ngoc Ha guide for further info.

Final night – explore the bars

The Hanoi nightlife scene has a bit of everything from smoky, grimy clubs to fancy bars and local beer streets. You’ll notice that everything officially gets shut down by the police at midnight but there’s usually a way around this. People initiate lock-ins, plus outdoor clubs spring up at weekends just a few out of miles out of town. Be sure to check out:

Polite & Co

Hanoi’s most stylish bar is without a doubt Polite & Co . With a speakeasy theme, it’s quirky from the offset and boasts a range of creative and unusual cocktails. The ‘around the world’ menu offers coffee cocktails from Ethiopia, chai-infused Indian options and maple syrup liquors from Canada.  We opted for Vietnamese classics. Mine was flavoured with sticky rice and ice cream while my friend Lola’s stole the show and wore a mini rice hat.

Ne Bar has all your usual cocktails as well as some you’ll need to dare your friends into trying. Following a strong drink at Polite & Co, I was coerced into drinking both a pho cocktail and a fish sauce cocktail. Despite sounding bizarre, both were refreshingly aromatic: icy cold flavoured with chilli and lime. I’d forgive you for sticking to a mojito though.

Other things to do in Hanoi

Since I’ve spent much longer than 3 days in Hanoi, I have a few other favourite corners. If you have extra time or don’t fancy something mentioned above, for example admiring the embalmed body of a communist leader, swap any of these into your itinerary for Hanoi. Check out my guide to all the best Hanoi hidden gems .

Take a craft class

From ceramics to cooking and even knife making, there are loads of ways to get engrossed in traditional professions while visiting Hanoi.  One of my favourite afternoons was spent at a watercolour painting class where I got to unleash my creative side (which admittedly didn’t go very well due to my lack of talent) and take home the most beautiful piece of artwork that my instructor had painted himself. Browse craft classes in Hanoi .

Take a cooking class

To try your hand at making the local cuisine, a cooking class is a fun option. Several tour companies will pick you up at your accommodation, take you shopping at the local market, then help you prepare a meal in ambient settings. Book a cooking class from $40 .

Long Bein Market

For a cultural but quite gritty and exhausting addition to your Hanoi itinerary, set your alarm for 4.30am and head to Long Bein Market beside the bridge of the same name. This is where local traders sell fresh goods so that restaurant staff can have them cooked and on the table by the opening time of 9am.  I woke up at 4.30am and called a Grab scooter to spend an hour walking around in flip flops getting very muddy and almost having my feet run over by in the bustling market. If you’re keen to see the real Hanoi, this is it. You can also see the colourful 6km Hanoi Mosaic Wall running along outside when the sun comes up.

Dong Xuan Market 

While lots of tourists visit Dong Xuan Market , it’s big and busy enough that it remains a local experience and an insight into hectic Hanoi. If you don’t fancy waking up at the crack of dawn for Long Bein Morning Market, this is your best bet. Grab your camera and explore the indoor and outdoor sections overflowing with fruit, spices, drying squid and many other items you’d rather admire than actually buy.

The Vietnam Museum of Ethnology

Focussing on the 54 ethnic minorities in Vietnam, this museum aims to preserve their cultural heritage by showcasing their cultures, regions and practices. The site is massive – as well as your usual clothing and artefacts, you can see and full-size homes in the grounds, and visit a whole exhibition on water puppet theatre. Entrance is 40k VND.

How to get around Hanoi

It’s easy to explore the whole Old Quarter by foot , you’ll rarely have to take any form of transport. For heading further afield to Truc Bach, Tay Ho and Ngoc Ha, the quickest and cheapest option is to take a Grab scooter, the Asian version of Uber but on scooters. Call one on the app and within 2 minutes, a driver will whiz up with a spare helmet for you and you’ll jump on the back. You can also order cars but, given hectic Hanoi traffic, scooters are by far the quickest option. If there’s two of you, I’d suggest ordering separate Grab scooters . When you’re coming from Noi Bai International Airport, you’ll obviously need a car for your luggage. Some expats in Hanoi hire or buy their own scooter but I wouldn’t recommend this unless you’re a real pro. The traffic is so hectic that it could be dangerous. Local buses also run and the routes are mostly marked on Google Maps. These cost practically pennies!

Day trips from Hanoi

With so many things to do in Hanoi, I don’t see how anyone could ever get bored. If you have a fourth day to add to your Hanoi itinerary, I would highly recommend…

The best day trip from Hanoi is Ninh Binh, a gorgeous countryside region just a two-hour drive away. Actually, I’d recommend catching a bus and staying overnight but if you’re tight on time, $48 will get you a fun and all-inclusive return day trip . The popular attractions in Ninh Binh are the Tam Coc cliffs and boat rides, as well as the numerous temples in the countryside. Read about how to plan a Ninh Binh day trip here.

The Perfume Pagoda

Also known as the Huong Pagoda, this stop is a series of Buddhist shrines and temples set into the mountains. It takes around two hours to reach from Hanoi and most visitors arrive via a day tour . I’ve never been myself as some people say it’s a bit of a tourist trap but I’ll leave you to make your own decision.

Bat Trang Pottery Village

Porcelain pottery has been made in Hanoi for seven centuries and provides a livelihood for countless residents. A visit to Bat Trang allows you to shop for souvenirs and visit the factory to learn about the rich history of Hanoi handicrafts. Take a day trip from Hanoi and arrive via a tour , local bus or taxi.

Where next?

After your Hanoi itinerary, you’re in a fantastic position to explore more of Vietnam’s most incredible attractions. To best explore, check out my Northern Vietnam itinerary . Must-see spots include…

Ha Long Bay

If you do one thing outside of Hanoi, make sure it’s Ha Long Bay . I’ve now been twice and I’d love to do it all again. Book a tour in any Hanoi agency and you’ll get picked up and driven to the harbour where you’ll board a cruise. The itinerary will include caves, kayaking and climbing viewpoints. Some people manage to do Ha Long Bay as a day trip though as it’s a three-hour drive each way that sounds pretty tiresome. I’d recommend taking a two-night cruise with the second night on Cat Ba Island. On the way to Cat Ba, you make it further into the bay (past the busy, touristic mouth) and see more local life. Browse GetYourGuide’s overnight Hanoi cruises including meals, kayaking and guides.

Magical little Sapa is a misty hilltown I had the pleasure of visiting for the first time recently. The main activity is trekking the rice terraces with a local guide who will take you to some of the most picturesque spots. The highlight for me was meeting the minority hill tribes who have their own unique languages and forms of traditional dress. Like Ha Long Bay, you can see Sapa in a short period of time if necessary. You can take a sleeper train from Hanoi , stay in Sapa Town and explore independently, or take a multi-day tour. Browse tours in any Old Quarter travel agency or book in advance . I took this 3 day tour with a homestay ( 2 day trip also available) or you can opt for a hotel stay instead.

Going down the coast?

Many people visit Hanoi at the beginning of their Vietnam trip. Once your 3 days in Hanoi are up, use my Vietnam travel itinerary to plan your trip. There’s so much to see and do in Vietnam so I’d recommend at least a month if you have time.

Spending time in other SE Asian countries? Read my 3 month Southeast Asia itinerary

Recap of my other Hanoi posts

• What to eat in Hanoi
• The best coffee shops in Hanoi
• Hidden & lesser known places in Hanoi
• Truc Bach area guide
• Ngoc Ha area guide
• Where to drink egg coffee in Hanoi

Thanks for reading my Hanoi itinerary!

Looking for more Vietnam inspo? Check out my blogs…

Central Vietnam posts:

• Solo travel in Vietnam
• The ultimate Hoi An itinerary
• The best Hoi An cafes
• Where to eat vegetarian food in Hoi An
• A complete street food guide to Hoi An
• Co-working cafes for digital nomads in Hoi An
• Hue Abandoned Waterpark
• How to spend 2 days in Hue
• Phong Nha National Park travel guide
• Quy Nhon travel guide – Vietnam’s hidden gem

Southern Vietnam posts:

• A complete Saigon itinerary
• How to take a Mekong Delta day trip from Saigon

See you next time for more adventures,

For more content, follow me on Instagram , Facebook , Twitter and YouTube .

Ps. Liked my 3 day Hanoi itinerary? Pin it for later!

VIETNAM QUICK LINKS Getting around by air – it’s easy to get between cities by flight. I use Skyscanner to find the best-value flights, using the ‘search by month’ tool to find the cheapest dates. You can also use the ‘to anywhere’ feature if you’re flexible on where you’re going. Stay connected with E-sim data plans that don’t require delivery or collection; just scan the QR code. In my opinion, Lonely Planet offer the best guidebooks. Get the latest Lonely Planet Vietnam . For Vietnam buses and trains , I use 12GoAsia . The search feature allows you to compare prices and durations. I use Booking.com for accommodation. They have the best range of hotels and self-catering apartments, plus you can filter by review score and price to find the best-rated budget places. For hostels, I use Hostelworld . To save money on accommodation, I use Trusted Housesitters , a website that connects homeowners going away and travellers who can sit their homes & pets. For activities, I use GetYourGuide as they have a huge range of affordable tours. Need travel insurance ? I use True Traveller (for UK & Europe residents) since it’s affordable but covers everything you’d need including various activities, valuables and pre-existing conditions. Unlike some companies, they insure you if you’re already travelling / don’t yet have your flight home booked. Get a quote . For travel insurance for other nationalities, I recommend Hey Mundo and for long-term digital nomad travellers, I suggest Safety Wing . Check out my resources page for more travel discounts and tips!

Rose is a solo traveller from the UK who has been on the road since 2015. She wants to show other women that solo travel isn't scary and doesn't have to be expensive! Rose has lived in Mexico, Canada and all over Asia, seeking out food, bubble tea and street art wherever she goes!

2 thoughts on “ 3 Days in Hanoi Itinerary (2024) for Culture & Food Fans! ”

Planning to visit Vietnam your veg/vegan restaurant at Hoi An information will help me a lot Thanks do you have this information for Hanoi ,Ho Chi Minh, Ha Long cities

Hello! I’m so glad you found it helpful. Sorry I don’t have vegan guides to those cities unfortunately!

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• Travel Planning Guide

Travel Budget for Hanoi Visit Hanoi on a Budget or Travel in Style

• Hanoi Costs

• Hanoi Hotel Prices
• Best Hotels for a Weekend Getaway in Hanoi
• Best Hotels for One Night in Hanoi
• Best Hotels for Scuba Diving in Hanoi
• Best Hotels for One Week in Hanoi
• Best Family-Friendly Hotels in Hanoi
• Best Hotels for First Time Visitors in Hanoi
• Best Luxury Hotels in Hanoi
• Best Cheap Hotels in Hanoi
• Best Romantic Hotels for Couples in Hanoi
• Best Pet-Friendly Hotels in Hanoi
• Best Business Hotels in Hanoi
• Is Hanoi Expensive?
• How much does a trip to Hanoi cost?
• Is Hanoi Worth Visiting?
• Vietnam Costs
• Northern Vietnam
• Central Vietnam
• Southern Vietnam
• Ho Chi Minh City
• How much does it cost to travel to Hanoi? (Average Daily Cost)
• Hanoi trip costs: one week, two weeks, one month

Is Hanoi expensive to visit?

• How much do I need for a trip to Hanoi?
• Accommodation, Food, Entertainment, and Transportation Costs
• Travel Guide

How much does it cost to travel to Hanoi?

You should plan to spend around $49 (d1,215,118) per day on your vacation in Hanoi. This is the average daily price based on the expenses of other visitors.

Past travelers have spent, on average for one day:

• $13 (d331,977) on meals
• $6.89 (d172,553) on local transportation
• $50 (d1,254,792) on hotels

A one week trip to Hanoi for two people costs, on average, $679 (d17,011,646) . This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.

All of these average travel prices have been collected from other travelers to help you plan your own travel budget.

• Travel Style: All Budget (Cheap) Mid-Range Luxury (High-End)
• Average Daily Cost Per person, per day $ 49 d 1,215,118
• One Week Per person $ 340 d 8,505,823
• 2 Weeks Per person $ 679 d 17,011,646
• One Month Per person $ 1,456 d 36,453,527
• One Week For a couple $ 679 d 17,011,646
• 2 Weeks For a couple $ 1,359 d 34,023,292
• One Month For a couple $ 2,912 d 72,907,055

Are You an Experienced Traveler?

Help other travelers! Answer a quick question about your past travels. Click here: let's do it!

How much does a one week, two week, or one month trip to Hanoi cost?

A one week trip to Hanoi usually costs around $340 (d8,505,823) for one person and $679 (d17,011,646) for two people. This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.

A two week trip to Hanoi on average costs around $679 (d17,011,646) for one person and $1,359 (d34,023,292) for two people. This cost includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.

Please note, prices can vary based on your travel style, speed, and other variables. If you're traveling as a family of three or four people, the price per person often goes down because kid's tickets are cheaper and hotel rooms can be shared. If you travel slower over a longer period of time then your daily budget will also go down. Two people traveling together for one month in Hanoi will often have a lower daily budget per person than one person traveling alone for one week.

A one month trip to Hanoi on average costs around $1,456 (d36,453,527) for one person and $2,912 (d72,907,055) for two people. The more places you visit, the higher the daily price will become due to increased transportation costs.

Independent Travel

Traveling Independently to Hanoi has many benefits including affordabilty, freedom, flexibility, and the opportunity to control your own experiences.

All of the travel costs below are based on the experiences of other independent travelers.

Hanoi is a reasonably affordable place to visit. Located in Vietnam, which is a reasonably affordable country, visitors will appreciate the relatively low cost of this destination. It falls in the average range in the country for its prices. If you're traveling on a budget, then this is a good destination with affordable accommodation, food, and transportation.

Within Asia, Hanoi is a reasonably affordable destination compared to other places. It is in the top 25% of cities in Asia for its affordability. You can find more affordable cities such as Luang Prabang, but there are also more expensive cities, such as Taipei.

For more details, and to find out if it's within your travel budget, see Is Hanoi Expensive?

How much money do I need for a trip to Hanoi?

The average Hanoi trip cost is broken down by category here for independent travelers. All of these Hanoi travel prices are calculated from the budgets of real travelers.

Accommodation Budget in Hanoi

Average daily costs.

Calculated from travelers like you

The average price paid for one person for accommodation in Hanoi is $25 (d627,396). For two people sharing a typical double-occupancy hotel room, the average price paid for a hotel room in Hanoi is $50 (d1,254,792). This cost is from the reported spending of actual travelers.

• Accommodation 1 Hotel or hostel for one person $ 25 d 627,396
• Accommodation 1 Typical double-occupancy room $ 50 d 1,254,792

Hotel Prices in Hanoi

Looking for a hotel in Hanoi? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options.

Find the best hotel for your travel style.

Actual Hotel Prices The average hotel room price in Hanoi based on data provided by Kayak for actual hotel rooms is $28. (Prices in U.S. Dollars, before taxes & fees.)

Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world.

Recommended Properties

• Classy Boutique Hotel Budget Hotel - Kayak $ 34
• Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi Luxury Hotel - Kayak $ 185

Transportation Budget in Hanoi

The cost of a taxi ride in Hanoi is significantly more than public transportation. On average, past travelers have spent $6.89 (d172,553) per person, per day, on local transportation in Hanoi.

• Transportation 1 Taxis, local buses, subway, etc. $ 6.89 d 172,553

Recommended Services

• Halong Calypso Cruise 2d1n-All Inclusive Cruise with Transfer Viator $ 155
• Hanoi Airport transfer Viator $ 15

Flights to Hanoi

Rental cars in hanoi, what did other people spend on transportation in hanoi.

Typical prices for Transportation in Hanoi are listed below. These actual costs are from real travelers and can give you an idea of the prices in Hanoi, but your costs will vary based on your travel style and the place where the purchase was made.

• Taxi to Bus Station d 30,000
• Shuttle Bus From Airport (for Two) d 80,000
• Local Bus Ride (for Two) d 10,000
• Short Taxi Ride d 34,000
• Short Motorbike Ride (10 Minutes) d 20,000

Food Budget in Hanoi

While meal prices in Hanoi can vary, the average cost of food in Hanoi is $13 (d331,977) per day. Based on the spending habits of previous travelers, when dining out an average meal in Hanoi should cost around $5.30 (d132,791) per person. Breakfast prices are usually a little cheaper than lunch or dinner. The price of food in sit-down restaurants in Hanoi is often higher than fast food prices or street food prices.

• Food 2 Meals for one day $ 13 d 331,977

Recommended

• Hanoi Walking STREET FOOD Tours & EGG COFFEE Class Viator $ 35
• Hanoi Nightlife Food Tour By Motorbikes Viator $ 49

What did other people spend on Food in Hanoi?

Typical prices for Food in Hanoi are listed below. These actual costs are from real travelers and can give you an idea of the prices in Hanoi, but your costs will vary based on your travel style and the place where the purchase was made.

• High End Dinner (for Two) d 290,000
• Casual Lunch (for Two) d 110,000
• Bowl of Pho d 20,000
• Italian Dinner (for Food) d 155,000

Entertainment Budget in Hanoi

Entertainment and activities in Hanoi typically cost an average of $8.51 (d213,024) per person, per day based on the spending of previous travelers. This includes fees paid for admission tickets to museums and attractions, day tours, and other sightseeing expenses.

• Entertainment 1 Entrance tickets, shows, etc. $ 8.51 d 213,024

Recommended Activities

• Hanoi Jeep Tour: Red River Countryside Culture & Daily Life Viator $ 55
• Hanoi Motorbike Tour: Hanoi HIGHTLIGHTS & HIDDEN GEMS Viator $ 55

What did other people spend on Entertainment in Hanoi?

Typical prices for Entertainment in Hanoi are listed below. These actual costs are from real travelers and can give you an idea of the prices in Hanoi, but your costs will vary based on your travel style and the place where the purchase was made.

• Puppet Theater d 40,000
• The Hanoi Hilton Entrance d 40,000
• National History Museum d 40,000
• Puppet Theater Ticket d 70,000

Tips and Handouts Budget in Hanoi

The average cost for Tips and Handouts in Hanoi is $7.92 (d198,197) per day. The usual amount for a tip in Hanoi is 5% - 15% .

• Tips and Handouts 1 For guides or service providers $ 7.92 d 198,197

Scams, Robberies, and Mishaps Budget in Hanoi

Unfortunately, bad things can happen on a trip. Well, you've just got to deal with it! The average price for a scam, robbery, or mishap in Hanoi is $14 (d358,311), as reported by travelers.

• Scams, Robberies, and Mishaps 1 $ 14 d 358,311

Alcohol Budget in Hanoi

The average person spends about $7.70 (d192,683) on alcoholic beverages in Hanoi per day. The more you spend on alcohol, the more fun you might be having despite your higher budget.

• Alcohol 2 Drinks for one day $ 7.70 d 192,683
• Hanoi Beer and Brewery Tour Viator $ 48
• Pub Crawl Party & Hanoi's nightlife Viator $ 65

Water Budget in Hanoi

On average, people spend $0.99 (d24,667) on bottled water in Hanoi per day. The public water in Hanoi is considered safe to drink.

• Water 2 Bottled water for one day $ 0.99 d 24,667

Related Articles

Hanoi on a budget.

Neighborhoods

Food and dining, transportation, more related articles.

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Join Free Hanoi Food Tour with Halong Bay Cruise Booking at BestPrice Travel

2024's summer is about to kick off. What is your plan? If going to Vietnam, you would not want to miss the chance to explore Halong Bay's scenery and Hanoi's cuisine at an unbeatable price. Stay tuned for more deals from BestPrice Travel!

Don’t miss out Hanoi Food Tour & Halong Bay Cruise on your Vietnam vacation

Halong Bay, known as a World Heritage Site, is a majestic bay area featuring emerald water, limestone karsts, and mountain caves. On visiting this destination, most tourists would do some cruise tours so as to fully enjoy the picturesque scenery and participate in many interesting activities within the bay.

Meanwhile, Hanoi - the capital of Vietnam - has attracted thousands of foreign visitors every year to explore its excellent cuisine, tasting countless dishes like pho, banh mi, bun cha, etc. Apparently, it is true to say that cruising in Halong Bay and doing food tours in Hanoi are the top activities when you travel to Vietnam.

Then, what about combining two activities in just one trip, even at an attractive price? This summer, from only 170 USD per pax, you will get a free Hanoi food tour when booking a Halong cruise with Best Price Travel.

Through this event, you will have the chance to get on a luxurious cruise and experience on-deck activities such as cooking class, Tai Chi, squid fishing, etc. Along with that, many flavorful dishes in Hanoi are also ready to satisfy your taste.

Why should you book a Halong Bay Cruise with Bestpricetravel.com?

For more details, the “Booking a Halong Bay Cruise - Get a FREE Hanoi Food Tour” event is held by BestPrice Travel - one of the leading travel agencies in Vietnam and Indochina. Operated since 2010, the company has gained countless awards and certifications from reputable tourism associations, namely Top 9 of more than 600 boat tours & water sports in Hanoi, 2023 TripAdvisor Traveler’s Choice Award , etc.

Let’s see how tourists are satisfied with BestPrice Travel on TripAdvisor

With professional service, a team of dedicated tour guides, and flexible tour packages, BestPrice Travel is committed to bringing visitors unforgettable vacations. In addition, on booking a Halong Bay cruise with the company, tourists will be entitled to true value, quality, and money-back guarantees, as well as 24/7 on-spot support. Therefore, there is no need to worry about the service quality. All you have to do is enjoy your trip.

Besides, BestPrice Travel is now running a campaign using a part of its income to help underprivileged children in Vietnam. This means that by booking a Halong Bay cruise with BestPrice Travel, you will indirectly give a hand to the kids that are in need, to improve their life condition.

Grab your deals and save big!

The ”Book Halong Bay Cruise - Get a Free Hanoi Food Tour” policy applies to Halong Bay Cruise bookings with arrival dates starting in May 2024 and will soon come to an end. 

Please use the code US-FT-2024 for your cruise booking.

Valid until: September 30, 2024

Seize the cruise deal now  to join Free Hanoi food tour with BestPrice Travel

Quickly book a Halong Bay Cruise at BestPrice Travel to discover the natural beauty and unique culinary flavors of Halong and Hanoi!

For detailed information about the program, please visit the website bestpricetravel.com or WhatsApp (+84) 904 699 428.

Your booking matters

At the moment, BestPrice Travel is promoting the “Taste Halong” campaign to spread the beauty of Halong Bay to international tourists and raise funds for charitable activities. Accompanying the current fund is the Blue Dragon Children's Foundation - one of the organizations that protects and supports underprivileged children in Vietnam.

For each booking for Halong Bay cruises, BestPrice Travel will contribute 1 USD per pax to the Blue Dragon organization. In addition, it would be kind of you to spread the campaign to people around, using the #tasteHalong hashtag so that more kids would be helped in the future. 

For further information, please visit BPG Foundation to learn more about the campaign and responsible tourism.