Beyond Train Street: The Best Things to Do in Hanoi for an Unforgettable Trip

#vietnamtrip So, you’ve experienced the thrill of #trainstreet in Hanoi. You’ve sipped egg coffee as a massive locomotive rumbled past just a few feet away. Now you’re probably wondering: “What’s next?”

Hanoi, the vibrant capital of #vietnam , is more than just one viral photo spot. It’s a city brimming with history, culture, and hidden gems waiting to be discovered. Here’s a list of must-do activities to keep your adventure going.

🏯 1. Wander Through the Old Quarter

Hanoi’s Old Quarter is the beating heart of the city. Narrow streets are filled with scooters, street vendors, and colonial buildings with peeling pastel facades. Each street here specializes in a different trade—silk, silver, paper lanterns—and getting lost is part of the charm.

✅ Grab a bowl of pho at a sidewalk stall.
✅ Browse handicrafts in the night market.
✅ Sip a Vietnamese iced coffee (cà phê sữa đá) as you people-watch from a second-story cafe.

🛶 2. Take a Day Trip to Ha Long Bay

This UNESCO World Heritage site is just a few hours from Hanoi. Dramatic limestone karsts rise out of emerald waters, creating a surreal landscape.

You can book a day tour, but I recommend staying overnight on a traditional junk boat to truly soak in the magic. I found a great package through Trip.com, including transportation from Hanoi, which saved me hours of planning.

🏛️ 3. Visit the Temple of Literature

Step back in time at this beautiful 11th-century temple dedicated to Confucius. It’s a peaceful escape from the chaos of the city and a perfect spot to learn about Vietnam’s scholarly history.

🥢 4. Join a Vietnamese Cooking Class

One of the best ways to understand a culture is through its food. Join a local cooking class where you’ll shop at a wet market, learn to make traditional dishes like spring rolls and bun cha, and enjoy a feast at the end.

🛺 5. Explore by Cyclo or Scooter

Hop on a cyclo (three-wheeled rickshaw) for a leisurely ride through the Old Quarter, or if you’re feeling adventurous, rent a scooter and zip around like the locals.