How to Spend One Night in Hanoi

There would never be a dull moment visiting Vietnam's capital city, even when it’s night time. Hanoi has a wide range of activities that keep you entertained, from cultural explorations to tasting exquisite street cuisines. Here are some of the best suggestions on how to spend one night in Hanoi!

Get Lost in The Old Quarter

Let the roads guide you

One of the best activities to do for one night in Hanoi is to explore 36 streets of the Old Quarter. You may not be able to go for all of them in one go – some Hanoians can’t even remember the directions properly! The best solution is wandering, come to whatever makes you excited, hop in and out of stores, experience the street foods and vendors, or join in with a group of locals to enjoy the company.

While at the Old Quarter, don’t miss the chance to fill your stomach. Some street eateries in Hanoi worth checking out are:

A warm bowl of rice porridge to keep your belly full

• Chao suon sun (baby ribs porridge) - Dong Xuan Market
• Pho ganh (beef noodles soup) - Hang Chieu (between the crossroads of Hang Duong and Hang Chieu streets)
• Banh mi sot vang (baguette bread with wine sauce) - 30 Dinh Ngang Street, Cua Nam
• Bun ca (fish rice vermicelli soup) - 42 Hang Dau Street

Dong Xuan Market food alley is the heaven to Hanoi's best street food

Hoan Kiem Lake in the heart of Hanoi

Located just by the Old Quarter, Hoan Kiem Lake is another destination you can’t miss. The scenic view of lights on buildings, houses, or vehicles being reflected on the water surface, creating a unique sight to see. Surround the lake is a pedestrian path that with frequent street performances.

Magical performance by the artists

Just across the street from the Hoan Kiem Lake is the Thang Long Puppet Theater. Once sitting down, you’ll get carried away with the water puppet performance done by adept masters. The price varies from VND 100,000 to VND 200,000, and they also serve private shows on request! There are often five shows a day, but care to book tickets in advance online should it run out in peak seasons.

Link to the Thang Long Puppet Theater: http://thanglongwaterpuppet.org/

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Catch The Sunset on Long Bien Bridge

A place for a sense of nostalgia

The Long Bien bridge of Hanoi history and pride can be a place for a poetic view. Trains regularly go by on the middle trails, and there are walkways for pedestrians & motorcyclists on both sides. When the sun starts to cast an enchanting velvety tangerine color of sunset on the Red River, feel free to stand by the side of the bridge to take some memorable pictures.

Flag Lowering Ceremony at Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum

The destination attracts many visitors

This solemn ceremony at Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum takes place every night at 9 PM and lasts for about 15 minutes. Just before 9 PM, the guards march out to ceremonious music to begin the act. Everything is taken seriously, as this is a way locals look up to their great leader. A taste of solemnity and history in Hanoi would be a waste to miss out.

Bargaining at the Night Markets

The local market comes to life at night

Even if you’re not a shopaholic, the night markets are still worth a visit for one night in Hanoi to immerse yourself in the vibrant local scene after dusk. Ideally, stick to some local groups as they know their way around bargaining, or learn some bargaining skills and make the most fun out of the situation by yourself! The night markets are also where you can find authentic souvenirs at "dirt-cheap" prices - if you know how to bargain, of course.

Bike around West Lake

The stupa of Tran Quoc Pagoda

A trip around West Lake and its long rows of trees and villas can bring you some calm and quiet moments. You will see a romantic scene of the surrounding or of the couples by the lake, exchange affection or families with kids, especially at the weekend. Depending on where you stand, you may see the stupa of Tran Quoc Pagoda standing tall at 15 meters, which is the oldest temple in Hanoi, built in 544 by Emperor Ly Nam De.

The One Night in Hanoi Isn’t Over Yet!

Spending a night in Hanoi can never get boring, and the cultural scene is even much more vibrant than in day time. No matter how much time you have in this city, make sure to try out our suggestions and let us know your experiences in the comments below.

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