About this experience
Hanoi is a multifaceted and contradictory city that is not easy to understand without getting acquainted with its cultural and historical context. This tour will allow you to explore the main attractions of Hanoi, get to know the customs and traditions of the Vietnamese people, and immerse yourself in the city's daily urban environment. I will take you from Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum to the vibrant Old Quarter, share some stories from the life of Hanoi, and show you the hidden gems of the city. After a fun and informative tour, you will definitely fall in love with Hanoi and want to come back here!
What to Expect
Diverse Culture of Hanoi
We will visit the main landmarks of the city, some of which belong to the colonial era, others to the communist era, and the rest to the capitalist era. You will see the Temple of Literature - the first university of Vietnam, built in Confucian style, and learn about its architectural symbolism. On the vast square that unites Hanoi's contrasts, you will see Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, the neighboring parliament, and the old French building. Nearby, you will encounter the city's symbol - the One-Pillar Pagoda, where I will tell you about the religious traditions of the Vietnamese and the peculiarities of ancestor worship, which is widespread in Hanoi.
Beloved Neighborhoods of Locals
Ho Tay Lake is an incredibly popular spot among the Vietnamese, where we will head from the city center. Here, you will stroll along the shore among local residents, try national street food, and immerse yourself in the daily life of Hanoi. Additionally, by the shore of Ho Tay, you will also visit the oldest pagoda of the city, Tran Quoc Pagoda, with numerous Buddha statues and unique, non-typical architecture for Hanoi.
The Unique Heart of the City and Vietnamese Coffee
Hoan Kiem Lake, or the Lake of the Returned Sword, can be called the main tourist center of Hanoi. Here, you will fully feel the city's atmosphere and hear the story about the emperor and the turtle, to which a pagoda in the center of the lake is dedicated. Next, we will head to the authentic Old Quarter, try to decipher the names of the craft streets, admire the Gothic St. Joseph's Cathedral, and then visit a hidden coffee shop for egg coffee - an interesting drink that you must try in Hanoi.
At the end of our journey, I will be happy to answer all your questions about Hanoi, recommend good cafes and souvenir shops, and also inform you about interesting places to visit in the vicinity of your hotel.
Organizational Details
Transfer in a comfortable car from your hotel and the best coffee in the city are included in the tour price.