Nestled in the heart of Vietnam, Hanoi is a city that truly captures the spirit of adventure, culture, and mouthwatering cuisine. It’s not just the iconic sites and rich history that make this city captivating. The vibrant street food, charming cafes, and unique experiences bring a whole new layer of excitement. From the bustling streets to tranquil temples, Hanoi promises a blend of adventure and charm that leaves you longing for more. With this Hanoi travel guide, you’ll uncover my favorite spots, top dining recommendations, and tips for making the most of this incredible city.

Food Lovers, Rejoice! Hanoi’s Top Spots to Eat

1. Pho Ga 156 – Delicious and Affordable Chicken Pho

One of the best things about Hanoi is the authentic street food. On the hunt for amazing pho? Head to Pho Ga 156! This small but busy spot offers some of the most flavorful chicken pho I’ve ever had. And at an incredibly affordable price. The broth is rich, the noodles are tender, and the chicken is fresh. What’s even better? It’s served in a friendly and cozy setting, perfect for those looking to get a taste of true Vietnamese flavors without breaking the bank.

2. Banh Mi B+ – Authentic Street-Style Banh Mi

For a quick bite, make sure you try Banh Mi B+. Banh mi, a beloved Vietnamese sandwich, is best enjoyed street-style, and this spot offers exactly that. Each sandwich is stuffed with fresh herbs, pickled vegetables, and your choice of fillings, from grilled pork to tofu. This is authentic street food at its finest! With the satisfying crunch and burst of flavors, it’s a culinary experience you won’t want to miss. You can read more of my banh mi reviews while touring Vietnam here.

3. Cong Caphe – The Best Vietnamese Coffee

Coffee culture in Hanoi is something else, and Cong Caphe stands out for its relaxed, retro vibe and incredible Vietnamese coffee options. Here, you’ll want to try their signature “Bac Xiu,” a rich, creamy coffee with coconut milk that offers a sweet twist on the traditional drink. It’s smooth, refreshing, and the perfect pick-me-up.

4. Pho Khoi Hoi – Traditional Beef Pho

Looking for beef pho instead? Pho Khoi Hoi at the Old Quarter serves up authentic and tasty beef pho with different kinds of thinly sliced meat (brisket, tendons etc) to choose from. It consists of a savory, aromatic broth flavored with spices like star anise, cinnamon, ginger, and cloves, typically simmered for hours with beef bones to develop depth. Order a side of banh quay or fried breadsticks, dip it in the broth and enjoy!

5. Cafe Giang – Unique “Egg Coffee”

If you’re craving something unique, head over to Cafe Giang, the birthplace of Hanoi’s famous egg coffee! This café is a must-visit, where the coffee is crafted with egg yolk, condensed milk, and coffee to make a rich, frothy treat. And yes, Café Giang is actually credited with inventing egg coffee in 1946!

5. Mr Bay Mien Tay – Ban Xeo and Goi Cuon

You may not crave pho or banh mi for the day but the Old Quarter has so much options to offer. Mr Bay Mien Tay has really good goi cuon or fresh shrimp rolls that came with 3 different dipping sauces. Their ban xeo or savory stuffed pancake is not to miss as well. It is served with rice paper and lots of different fresh vegetables. Ban xeo is one of the most memorable dish I had in this Vietnam trip.

Discover Hanoi with a Free Walking Tour

One of the best ways to get to know Hanoi is through a free walking tour organized by students. This non-profit organization, accessible via TripAdvisor, pairs you with Vietnamese students eager to practice English and share their city with you. Our tour guide, Lee, took us to Hanoi’s must-see spots. This includes Hoan Kiem Lake, the Temple of Literature, and the beautiful St. Joseph’s Cathedral.

The best part? Since it’s a free tour, you only pay for any entrance fees, like the small fee at the Temple of Literature, and maybe a coffee or snack for your guide. Not only did we learn so much about the history and culture of Hanoi, but we also made a new friend along the way. Lee’s knowledge and passion for her city made the experience feel more like exploring with a friend. This is definitely a memorable way to connect with locals.

Explore Hanoi’s Bustling Streets: Motorcycle or Grab?

If you’re brave enough, renting a motorcycle in Hanoi offers an exciting way to explore the city. But let me tell you, the traffic here is unlike anything you’ve ever seen! Maneuvering through the busy streets requires some courage, but it’s an unforgettable adventure.

For those not keen on driving, there’s a great alternative: the Grab app. Similar to Uber, Grab allows you to easily hail a local driver, giving you a chance to ride around with someone who knows the ins and outs of the city. It’s convenient, affordable, and offers a safer way to get around Hanoi if you’re not comfortable with the fast-paced traffic.

Experience Hanoi’s Unique Train Street

One of Hanoi’s most thrilling experiences is Train Street. As the name suggests, this narrow street doubles as a railway track, with trains zooming past cafes and restaurants mere inches away. We checked the schedule, grabbed a seat at one of the nearby cafes, and eagerly awaited the train’s arrival. As the rumble grew louder, the excitement built, and suddenly the train whizzed by. It was close enough that you could feel the gust of air! It’s an exhilarating moment, and the locals have mastered this routine, often serving drinks or snacks right up until the train’s arrival.

Enjoying an appetizer and a cold beer as the train passed by was a highlight. This captured the perfect mix of thrill and relaxation that’s unique to Hanoi. Make sure to check the train schedule beforehand so you don’t miss it. Watching the train go by, with locals and tourists alike snapping photos and cheering, is an experience that shows you just how lively and unique Hanoi truly is.

Hanoi’s Magic Awaits

Hanoi is so much more than just another stop on your travel itinerary. It’s a city bursting with energy, history, and flavors that linger in your memory long after you leave. From the rich broth of chicken pho at Pho Ga 156 to the creamy coconut coffee at Cong Caphe, every bite and sip takes you deeper into Hanoi’s culture. Plus, with adventures like Train Street and insightful walking tours, there’s never a dull moment.

Whether you’re exploring on foot, braving the traffic on a motorcycle, or watching trains whiz by as you sip a beer, Hanoi is a city that surprises and delights at every turn.