Exploring the vibrant heart of Vietnam’s capital city, Hanoi, has never been easier. This full-day city tour promises an immersive experience, combining iconic landmarks with an authentic cultural lunch. From the serene Tran Quoc Pagoda to the historic Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, you’ll uncover Hanoi’s rich heritage and architectural marvels. But the true highlight? Indulging in a delectable eight-course Vietnamese feast, savoring the flavors that have captivated travelers for generations. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned explorer, this comprehensive tour offers a glimpse into the soul of this dynamic city.
Key Points
- A full-day Hanoi city tour that covers the city’s top attractions, including Tran Quoc Pagoda, Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, One Pillar Pagoda, Vietnam Ethnology Museum, and Temple of Literature.
- The tour includes a Vietnamese lunch featuring 8 authentic dishes, allowing visitors to enjoy the local culinary experience.
- The tour is available in both English and Vietnamese, with free cancellation and no upfront payment required for reservation.
- Highlights of the tour include the historic Old Quarter, the oldest pagoda in the city, the embalmed body of Ho Chi Minh, and the first national university of Vietnam.
- The tour provides a rundown of Hanoi’s cultural, historical, and architectural heritage, as well as hassle-free transportation throughout the day.
It's also worth checking out some other tours and experiences nearby.
Tour Overview
The full-day Hanoi City Tour includes a comprehensive exploration of the capital’s iconic landmarks and cultural attractions. Priced from 897,000 VND per person, the tour lasts one day and is offered in English and Vietnamese.
It features free cancellation with a full refund if canceled 24 hours in advance, and allows customers to reserve their spot without upfront payment.
Highlights include visits to the Tran Quoc Pagoda, Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, One Pillar Pagoda, Vietnam Ethnology Museum, and Temple of Literature.
Travelers will enjoy a Vietnamese lunch with eight dishes and explore well-preserved colonial buildings, ancient pagodas, and unique museums throughout the day.
Itinerary Highlights
The tour begins at Khu Phố Cổ Hà Nội, the historic Old Quarter of Hanoi. Highlights include Tran Quoc Pagoda, the oldest pagoda in the city dating back to the 6th century.
Next, the tour visits the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, where visitors can view the embalmed body of Vietnam’s former leader. The unique One Pillar Pagoda, dedicated to the Goddess of Mercy, is also on the agenda.
The Vietnam Ethnology Museum showcases the country’s 54 ethnic groups, though it’s closed on Mondays.
The tour then stops at the Temple of Literature, Vietnam’s first university from the 11th century.
Tran Quoc Pagoda
Tran Quoc Pagoda stands as the oldest pagoda in Hanoi, dating back to the 6th century.
It’s situated on an island in the picturesque West Lake. This historic Buddhist temple features a distinctive curved roof and serene surroundings.
Visitors can explore the intricate architecture, marvel at the ancient statues, and take in the tranquil atmosphere. The pagoda is a popular spot for spiritual reflection and cultural appreciation.
Its location provides stunning views of the lake and the city skyline.
Exploring Tran Quoc Pagoda is an integral part of the full-day Hanoi city tour, offering a glimpse into the rich history and traditions of this vibrant capital.
Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum
Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum stands as a revered monument in the heart of Hanoi, housing the embalmed body of the country’s iconic leader. Visitors can view Ho Chi Minh’s preserved remains in the imposing granite mausoleum, a testament to his lasting impact on Vietnam.
The surrounding grounds also include the modest house where he lived from 1954 to 1969. Guests must dress modestly and follow strict rules when visiting, including no photography inside the mausoleum.
While the mausoleum is closed on Mondays and Fridays, it’s a must-see attraction for those seeking to understand Vietnam’s history and the enduring legacy of Ho Chi Minh.
One Pillar Pagoda
Uniquely situated on a single stone pillar, the One Pillar Pagoda stands as a captivating architectural marvel in Hanoi.
Dedicated to the Goddess of Mercy, the pagoda’s unique design, inspired by a lotus blossom, symbolizes purity and rebirth.
Visitors can marvel at its intricate wooden carvings and learn about its rich history, which dates back to the 11th century.
Despite being destroyed and rebuilt numerous times, the One Pillar Pagoda remains an iconic symbol of Vietnam’s resilience and cultural heritage.
Its serene setting and spiritual significance make it a must-visit destination for those exploring the city’s treasures.
Vietnam Ethnology Museum
The Vietnam Ethnology Museum offers visitors an engaging insight into the diverse cultural traditions of Vietnam’s 54 ethnic groups.
The museum’s extensive collection of artifacts, interactive exhibits, and informative displays provide a rundown of the country’s rich cultural heritage. Visitors can learn about the unique customs, crafts, and daily lives of Vietnam’s diverse ethnic communities.
The museum’s well-preserved traditional houses and villages offer an immersive experience, allowing visitors to step back in time and gain a deeper understanding of the country’s cultural diversity.
Unfortunately, the museum is closed on Mondays, so visitors should plan their visit accordingly.
Temple of Literature
Established in the 11th century, the Temple of Literature stands as Vietnam’s first national university, serving as a revered center of Confucian scholarship and intellectual pursuit.
Visitors can explore the complex’s five courtyards, each with its own unique architectural and historical significance. Highlights include the stele pavilion, which houses stone steles inscribed with the names of former students who passed the imperial examinations.
The temple grounds also feature tranquil gardens, altars, and pavilions that offer a glimpse into Vietnam’s rich cultural heritage.
A visit to this iconic site provides travelers with a deeper appreciation for Hanoi’s longstanding traditions of education and philosophical inquiry.
Lunch and Cultural Experience
After exploring the rich cultural heritage of the Temple of Literature, the tour moves on to a highlight of the day – the Vietnamese lunch and cultural experience.
Guests will enjoy a delectable lunch at a local restaurant, sampling 8 authentic Vietnamese dishes. This culinary journey allows visitors to enjoy the vibrant flavors and traditions of Vietnamese cuisine.
Beyond the meal, the tour continues to showcase Hanoi’s well-preserved colonial buildings, ancient pagodas, and unique museums, providing a comprehensive cultural experience.
Throughout the day, guests can expect attentive service from the English-speaking guide and hassle-free transportation.
Here's a few more nearby tours and experiences we think you'll like.
- PRIVATE TOUR HALONG BAY ONE DAY With Cave, Kayaking, Bamboo Boat
- Hanoi Food Lovers Walking Tour: Street Food Experience With 5 Food Stops
- Tasting 8 Different Street Foods + Local Drink at Evening Time by Walking
- Hanoi Backstreet Jeep Tour : Hanoi HIGHTLIGHTS and HIDDEN GEMS
- Ha Long Bay Cruise Day Tour – Best Selling: Kayaking, Swimming, Hiking & Lunch
- Sena Cruises: Lan Ha Bay 2 Days 1 Night (Kayaking)
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Customize the Tour Itinerary?
While the tour itinerary is fixed, the provider may allow some customization within reason. Travelers should inquire about flexibility to adjust the schedule or substitute certain sites based on their interests and needs.
Do I Need to Book the Tour in Advance?
Yes, it’s recommended to book the tour in advance. The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours prior, and allows you to reserve your spot without upfront payment.
What Is the Age Requirement for the Tour?
The tour does not specify any age requirements. It is suitable for participants of all ages, though it may not be appropriate for those with mobility issues like back problems or wheelchair users. Visitors should bring comfortable shoes and modest attire.
Is Transportation Provided to and From the Hotel?
The tour includes pick-up and drop-off service from the starting point. Travelers don’t need to arrange their own transportation to and from the hotel for this full-day city tour in Hanoi.
Are There Any Dietary Restrictions for the Included Lunch?
The information provided doesn’t mention any specific dietary restrictions for the included lunch. It states the tour includes a Vietnamese lunch at a local restaurant featuring 8 dishes, but doesn’t indicate if it can accommodate special diets.
Not for you? Here's more of our most recent tour reviews happening neaby
- Private Hanoi Walking Tour With a Local Guide
- Hanoi: Full-Day City Tour With Lunch
- Feast & Flavor: A Culinary Adventure
- Half Day: Hanoi Afternoon City Tour
- Hanoi City Half Day Goup Tour – Morning
- Hanoi City Half Day Group Tour – Afternoon
- Hanoi Artisan Coffee Making Class With Train Street
- From Hanoi: City Tour Half Day Private or Group Tour
- PRIVATE Tour: Savour and Experience Local Foods
- Hanoi Cooking Class With Local Market and Traditional Dishes
- Ha Noi: Traditional Vietnamese Calligraphy Class
- Hanoi City Half-Day Morning Tour With Limousine
- Hanoi: Craft Villages and Street Food Full-Day Tour
- Hanoi Bicycle City Tour and Countryside Combine Half Day
- Hanoi City Tour With Lunch by Limousine
Recap
This comprehensive Hanoi city tour offers a seamless way to take in the vibrant culture and rich history of Vietnam’s capital. Visitors will explore iconic landmarks, experience an authentic Vietnamese lunch, and gain insights from an expert guide – all while enjoying hassle-free transportation. It’s an excellent opportunity to discover the architectural beauty and cultural significance that make Hanoi such a captivating destination.