Hanoi, despite centuries of French and Chinese influence, remains distinctly and proudly Vietnamese. The city’s rich history is evident everywhere—from the Old Quarter’s French colonial architecture to the more than 600 temples and pagodas scattered throughout. Key historical sites such as Hoa Lo Prison and the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum offer deep insights into Hanoi’s past. Exploring the city on foot or by scooter allows for spontaneous detours to newer attractions like independent art galleries, boutique shops, and trendy cafes.

For food enthusiasts, Hanoi is a culinary haven. While banh mi and bun cha are essential dishes to try, don’t miss out on other street food favorites such as crispy crepes, stir-fried eel, shrimp cakes, accompanied by a few frosty beers. For more recommendations on what Hanoi has to offer, continue reading below.