Experience the Essence of Hanoi in Just One Day
Hanoi, the vibrant capital of Vietnam, is the epicenter of the nation’s cultural, economic, educational, and political life. With a history that stretches back thousands of years, this city seamlessly blends the old and the new, offering a captivating mix of ancient temples, colonial architecture, and bustling modern streets. Its rich historical heritage, coupled with a lively street culture and significant landmarks, makes Hanoi a must-visit destination for travelers from around the globe.
Join our exclusive Hanoi City Private Tour and dive deep into the heart of this enchanting city. You’ll stroll through the iconic 36 ancient streets of the Old Quarter, discover scenic avenues lined with both historic and contemporary architecture, and gain a profound understanding of Vietnam’s cultural legacy through visits to its renowned museums, sacred temples, and other essential landmarks. This tour is not just a journey through a city but a comprehensive experience that reveals the soul of Hanoi, offering you a day filled with exploration, learning, and unforgettable memories.
This comprehensive one-day tour is designed to give you an authentic and immersive experience of Hanoi, blending history, culture, and local life into a single, unforgettable day.
Itinerary
We have carefully planned out each day to give you the best possible experience. From exploring historic landmarks to tasting delicious local cuisine, each day is packed with adventure and excitement. Join us as we take you on a journey through some of the most fascinating destinations in the world.
8:00 AM: Your journey begins when our friendly guide picks you up at your hotel in central Hanoi. From there, we’ll head to Tran Quoc Pagoda, the oldest pagoda in Hanoi, situated beside the serene West Lake. The guide will lead you through this historic site, explaining its significance and the role it plays in local spiritual life, for about 40 minutes.
9:00 AM: Next, we visit the Ho Chi Minh Complex, where you’ll gain insight into the life and legacy of Vietnam’s revered leader, President Ho Chi Minh. This complex includes the Presidential Palace, Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, and the iconic One-Pillar Pagoda, offering a deep dive into Vietnam’s history and its people’s respect for their national hero.
10:30 AM: Our tour continues to a Hanoi lacquer workshop, a truly unique stop where you’ll witness the intricate process of creating traditional Vietnamese lacquerware. This art form, known for its beautiful craftsmanship, is a distinctive part of Vietnamese culture, and you’ll have the chance to observe the artists at work and perhaps even take home a piece as a souvenir.
11:00 AM: We then visit the Museum of Ethnology, located west of the city center. This museum is a treasure trove of artifacts representing Vietnam’s diverse ethnic minority groups. Through displays of elaborate and colorful hill-tribe costumes, traditional weaving designs, musical instruments, and more, you’ll gain a comprehensive understanding of the cultural richness that makes Vietnam unique.
12:30 PM: Enjoy a delicious lunch at a local restaurant, where you’ll savor traditional Vietnamese cuisine, offering an authentic taste of Hanoi’s culinary heritage.
1:30 PM: After lunch, we’ll proceed to the Hoa Lo Prison, infamously known as the “Hanoi Hilton.” This former prison, now a historical relic, is a somber reminder of the struggles faced by political prisoners during the French colonial period and the Vietnam War. The exhibits here provide a poignant glimpse into Vietnam’s turbulent history.
2:30 PM: Next, we visit the Temple of Literature, a site dedicated to Confucius, sages, and scholars. This ancient temple, with its tranquil gardens and historic architecture, is a sanctuary in the midst of the bustling city. It’s also Vietnam’s first university, where you’ll learn about the nation’s educational history dating back over a thousand years.
Optional Add-On: If you’re interested, your guide can take you to the Hanoi Railway, a historic train line built over a century ago by the French and still in operation today. This is a unique and fun experience that showcases the blend of old and new in Hanoi.
3:30 PM: We’ll head back to your hotel to conclude the tour, but the adventure doesn’t have to end here! You can opt for a water puppet show or a cyclo ride around Hanoi’s Old Quarter, both of which offer a delightful way to further explore the city. For an additional $10 per person, you can choose either of these activities as a memorable way to wrap up your day.
5:00 PM: Return to your hotel, where we’ll bid you farewell, bringing your unforgettable day in Hanoi to a close.
Included / Excluded
To help you plan your trip, we have put together a list of what's included and what's not included in your tour package. This will give you a clear understanding of what to expect and help you make any necessary arrangements before your journey begins.
- Pick-up and drop-off at your hotel by a comfortable, air-conditioned minivan
- English-speaking guide
- Bottled mineral water
- Traditional Vietnamese lunch
- Entrance fees to all attractions listed
- Gratuities and personal expenses
- Optional water puppet show or cyclo ride (additional $10/person)
Tour Map
| Group Size | 1 | 2 | 3-4 | 5-7 | 8-16 |
| USD/ Pax | $120 | $62 | $52 | $45 | $41 |
Additional Info
All prices are per person depending on the group size.
If you require a guide who speaks German, Mandarin, Cantonese, Korean, French, Spanish, or Italian, please let us know in advance. A small additional fee applies for these language services compared to the standard English-speaking guide.
For Children
- 4 years and younger: Free
- 5 to 6 years old: 60% of the adult price
- 7 to 10 years old: 80% of the adult price
