Get to know Hanoi like a local with tips from Carolin of Happy When Abroad. From the buzzing Old Quarter to peaceful Hoàn Kiếm Lake, quirky Train Street cafés, egg coffee, and must-try street food — here’s a first-hand guide to Vietnam’s capital.

Hi, I’m Carolin — a travel content creator

Hanoi was one of those places that immediately pulled me in. The first time I arrived, I wasn’t quite sure what to expect. I had read about the chaos, the motorbikes, the street food culture – but experiencing it firsthand was something else. The city is intense, but it is also full of charm, history, and incredible energy. After a few days, I realized that Hanoi is best enjoyed when you stop trying to control everything and just let it sweep you along. If you are planning a trip to Vietnam, you will most likely land in Hanoi at some point. And trust me, it is more than just a stopover – it is a destination worth exploring in its own right. Here are my favorite places, personal tips, and everything you need to know to make the most out of your time in Vietnam’s capital.

The Old Quarter

The Old Quarter was my favorite area to just wander around. I loved getting lost in the narrow streets, where each road seemed to specialize in something different. The constant honking and buzzing of scooters can feel overwhelming at first, but if you sit down at one of the tiny plastic chairs outside a café with an iced coffee, you suddenly feel like you’re right where you’re supposed to be. My tip: explore in the morning when it’s not too hot, then come back at night when the streets are lit up and buzzing with food stalls. Hoàn Kiếm Lake and Ngọc Sơn Temple

This is the place I always ended up at when I wanted a little break from the chaos. Walking around the lake in the early morning and watching locals do tai chi was such a peaceful experience. Crossing the bright red bridge to Ngọc Sơn Temple feels a bit touristy, but it’s also one of those classic Hanoi moments you shouldn’t skip.

Temple of Literature

I visited the Temple of Literature on a hot afternoon, and it felt like stepping into a different world. The gardens and courtyards are beautiful, and there’s a calmness that instantly slows you down. Knowing that this was Vietnam’s first university made it even more special. If you want to escape the traffic for a bit, this is the place.

Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum

This is one of the most important landmarks in Vietnam, and I’m glad I took the time to visit. Seeing the mausoleum itself is surreal, but even if you don’t go inside, the surrounding gardens and the Presidential Palace are worth exploring. My tip: go early in the morning to avoid the biggest crowds.

Thăng Long Water Puppet Theater

I wasn’t sure what to expect from this traditional performance, but it ended up being so much fun. The show is playful, a little quirky, and accompanied by live music. If you’re looking for something cultural but not too heavy, this is perfect.

Train Street

This was one of the highlights of my stay. Watching a train squeeze through such a narrow street, with locals sitting just inches away, is a wild experience. I found a small café, ordered a drink, and waited for the train to pass – and yes, it’s just as exciting as you’ve probably seen on Instagram.

Dong Xuan Market

Markets are always my weakness, and Dong Xuan didn’t disappoint. It’s huge, chaotic, and packed with everything you can imagine. I loved wandering through the food section and trying random snacks – some delicious, some surprising! If you enjoy local markets, this one is a must.

The first time I tried crossing a street in Hanoi, I hesitated for way too long. The trick, as I learned quickly, is to just start walking slowly and steadily – the motorbikes will adjust around you. It’s nerve-wracking at first, but after a day or two, you get the hang of it.

Walking is still the best way to soak up the Old Quarter — there’s no better way to notice the tiny details and stumble upon hidden gems.

Cyclo rides are fun if you want to slow things down. I tried one in the evening, and it felt like floating through the chaos in my own little bubble.

For longer distances, Grab (the local ride-hailing app) was my go-to — cheap, fast, and easy. But when I needed a stress-free airport transfer or a longer day trip outside Hanoi, I recommend Kiwitaxi. Having a driver waiting at the airport or taking me directly to Halong Bay without train or bus changes made everything smoother.

Motorbike taxis are everywhere too — definitely part of the Hanoi adventure. Just make sure you’re comfortable before hopping on, because the traffic dance here is unlike anywhere else.

Hanoi’s food scene is one of the main reasons I loved the city so much. Honestly, some of the best meals I had in Vietnam were from tiny street stalls with no name. Egg Coffee – This was my absolute favorite discovery. I tried it in a cute café called The Note Coffee in the Old Quarter, and I still think about it. It’s creamy, sweet, and tastes like dessert in a cup. Do not leave Hanoi without trying it.

Phở – You can eat phở anywhere in Vietnam, but Hanoi does it best. I had it for breakfast one morning, sitting on a plastic stool at the side of the road, and it felt like the most authentic start to the day.

Bánh Mì – Quick, cheap, and always delicious. I loved grabbing one on the go while exploring.

Street Food Night Market – On weekends, the night market in the Old Quarter is such a vibe. I wandered through, tried different skewers and snacks, and just enjoyed the atmosphere.

Hanoi can feel overwhelming when you first arrive, but if you give it a chance, it will reward you with unforgettable experiences. For me, it was a mix of sitting by Hoàn Kiếm Lake in the early morning, squeezing onto Train Street to watch the train go by, and sipping Egg Coffee in a hidden café.

It’s a city that invites you to slow down, even when everything around you feels fast. My biggest tip is to not over-plan – let yourself wander, try the food, and allow the city to surprise you. Hanoi might be chaotic, but it has a way of getting under your skin in the best possible way.

If you’re planning your trip and want more details, check out my itineraries:

2 Days in Hanoi Itinerary

1 Day in Hanoi Itinerary

Or simply start with my blog Happy When Abroad for more Vietnam travel tips and stories.