By plane

Most people arrive at the Noi Bai International Airport

By train

Hanoi is very well connected by train from throughout the country

By bus

Public buses serving southern destinations leave from Giap Bat bus station. To get from the Giap Bat bus station to the old quarter and Hoan Kiem Lake, leave aside all the hassle of taxi and motorbike drivers and simply take public bus number 8 towards Long Bien - to find it head towards the main road inside Giap Bat station, you will see signs with numbers indicating the stops of different bus lines.

Hoa Lu & Tam Coc

Discover the ancient capital of Hoa Lu in the Ninh Binh province, well known for its enchanting scenery and history. Visit historic temples from past dynasties, enjoy a serene boat ride along the Ngo Dong River and join a cycling tour through the idyllic countryside.

Start your journey by heading south toward Hoa Lu. Your first stops are at the Dinh and Le temples, built in honour of the first and second emperors of ancient Vietnam. Marvel at the temples' intricate architecture, art, devotional statues and sculptures.

Next, hop aboard a traditional boat and cruise along the Ngo Dong River to discover Tam Coc, a network of 3 beautiful caves carved naturally by the river. Take time to wander in the stunning landscape with natural limestone formations and paddy fields.

Pedal through native villages and learn more about the history of the land and local culture before returning to Hanoi in the evening.

Halong Bay Full-Day Boat Cruise

Sail through incredible islands, spectacular limestone karsts and unique grottos on this day tour from Hanoi. Swim or relax on the sun deck and take in the panoramic views of the magnificent Halong Bay.

Van Phuc Silk Village

Witness the art and craftsmanship involved in weaving silk, learn about the process of making silk and visit historical shrines in the area.

Perfume Pagoda

Explore Perfume Pagoda, a vast complex of Buddhist temples and shrines situated in the Huong Tich Mountains. Discover this important religious site where many Vietnamese perform their pilgrimage.

Start your journey in the morning by heading west, passing idyllic rural villages and tranquil paddy fields. Board a traditional Vietnamese boat and take the popular pilgrimage route by travelling downstream from Yen Vy Wharf to Duc Wharf. During the cruise, enjoy scenic views between mountains and streams.

Then hike up to Huong Tich Grotto. Marvel at the impressive Buddhist temples and shrines spread out among the limestone hills and tropical forests of the Huong Tich Mountains. At the main entrance of the grotto, descend 120 steps to the Inner Temple, which houses spectacular statues of Buddha and Quan Am. Gaze at the cave's naturally formed stalagmites and stalactites.

Finish by stopping at popular ancient sites such as the Den Trinh, Thien Tru Pagoda and Giai Oan Pagoda. Then, for your trip down to the mountain's base, enjoy a panoramic cable-car ride before heading back to Hanoi late in the afternoon.

Hang Da

A 6-story building to house the market is currently under construction; all the kiosks are now located in the neighboring area, either on Phung Hung (second-hand clothing), Duong Thanh or Ly Nam De streets. They offer everything that one can think of, from pets, groceries, prepared food to fabric materials

Cho Hom

They offer everything here. What it is famous for is the fabric market on the second floor. There are many kiosks selling different types of fabrics ranging from cheap, affordable to very good quality with a high price. However, please bear in mind that when shopping, take your time. Never rush into buying anything. Sellers often give a very high price that you can bargain down to half or one-third of the original price

Dong Xuan

Famous for being the market for wholesalers. They have from school supplies, stuffed animals to clothing. It is quite an experience to spend some time in the market observing the sellers and buyers

Night Market

Usually opens from 7PM, this unique market gathers on a walking street in the old quarter. Has anything from pirated DVD to traditional ornaments. Prices are negotiable but watch out for the "foreigner pricing" which is fairly common.

Namaste Ha Noi

46 Thợ Nhuộm, Trần Hưng Đạo, Hoàn Kiếm, Hà Nội, Vietnam

Khazaana Indian Restaurant

34 Đường Thành, Hoàn Kiếm, Hà Nội, 34 Đường Thành, Cửa Đông, Hoàn Kiếm, Hà Nội, Vietnam

Little India Restaurant

32 Hàng Tre, Lý Thái Tổ, Hoàn Kiếm, Hà Nội, Vietnam