HanoI (TROUGH OUR EYES)
The Capital of Wonders
Hanoi, capital of Vietnam, is a city apart in the country of the celestial dragon, located in the north of the country, with more than 9 million inhabitants. Political capital, it is an influential city, steeped in centuries-old history, but it is also and above all a city on a human scale.
There are many things to see in Hanoi, and everyone can find something to suit them. Hanoi is full of treasures, and many visitors cross it every day seeing only 1/10th.
The old quarter of the 36 corporations
When we talk about Hanoi, the first place to go is the old town with the crossing of the 36 corporations and its famous rickshaw. To get lost in the old quarter is to discover the soul of the Vietnamese capital. Indeed the place is full of multitudes of small shops, restaurants, cafes…
Taking the time also means strolling around Hoan Kiem Lake, visiting the famous Lake of the Restored Sword, with its magnificent timeless red bridge, discovering the Ngoc Son temple where its Giant Tortoise stands.
A little confidence between lovers of Vietnam, we go regularly to the center on weekends, the surroundings of Hoan Kiem Lake are exclusively reserved for pedestrians (before covid) and you will discover there a population full of life, students celebrating their diploma, groups of young dancers full of energy, or even grannies practicing laughter yoga. You will also enjoy good ice cream.
West lake
Hanoi is also the city of a thousand lakes. Indeed, there is not a district that does not have its water point, more or less large. West Lake, as the name suggests, is west of the city center and is the largest lake in the city. A little far from the hustle and bustle of the old quarter, it is a place where it is good to watch the super sunset. A place that we recommend if you have time to stroll around the capital.
Hanoi and its history
Hanoi is intimately linked to Ho Chi Minh by its history, and the visit of the latter’s mausoleum remains a great moment, the changing of the guard in their magnificent white ceremonial dress is also a special event, the visit of the One Pillar Pagoda remains very mysterious…
To visit Hanoi is to learn a little more about the origins of this thousand-year-old people, and for that we advise you to visit the Temple of Literature and the Ethnographic Museum of Hanoi, with the 54 ethnic minorities of Vietnam.
Our advice, think of our local, French-speaking guide. He will tell you the origins and the little stories of these monuments. He is inexhaustible and very personable.
The water puppet show
The water puppet show
Between tradition and modernity
Often compared to Ho-chi-Minh city, Hanoi (despite its old and traditional appearance) has a young and enthusiastic population, full of resources and extremely endearing, and who do not hesitate to share their daily life with you…
It is also to cross the ring road with its magnificent mosaics (they extend over more than 4 km) which retrace in several tables the history and heritage of Vietnam.
Vestige of colonization
Exploring Hanoi means crossing the famous Long Bien bridge, a remnant of the French period, and built by the company Daydé & Pillé (and not Gustave Eiffel as everyone seems to mention) and discovering the neighborhood French with its beautiful restored colonial houses, for some.
Getting around Hanoi
We opted for exploring the city by scooter, it’s a unique and invigorating moment.
Two ways are available to you: Grab the equivalent of Uber or our à la carte motorcycle/driver service.
The Night-Market
Another must-see is the night market, where the smells of spices and typical dishes and the flamboyant colors of souvenirs to take away mix pell-mell. From simple flashy gadgets to silk scarves, from flocked T-shirts to delightful Ao Dai, one cannot remain insensitive to the charms of Asia.
Hanoian street food
When you pass through the streets of Hanoi, you will be attracted by its many street foods, with its little plastic chairs, a thousand flavors and flavors in the mouth, and the freshness of home cooking.
Vietnam food discovery tours, as well as cooking classes also exist, think about it.
By venturing a little further, you will discover an unusual place, but such a unique and magical experience: sip a drink while waiting for the train… which passes through the middle of the houses.
Explore hidden cafes
Finally Hanoi has so many varieties of coffees and teas, the most famous is Egg Coffee, the specialty of the city. You will discover other unsuspected flavors such as coconut coffee, banana coffee, but also avocado coffee, take the time to taste it, you will be surprised…
We offer you a discovery tour of unusual cafes in Hanoi, beautiful addresses where few tourists dare to venture.
Strolling in the middle of its streets around you is to immerse yourself in Hanoian life, its sweetness of life, its freshness and its culture. It is to live a new life richer in emotions and more sparkling in many aspects.
Traditional villages around Hanoi
To complete your discovery of Hanoi, think of the craft villages, there are dozens of them around.
The most famous are the villages of silk, incense, conical hats, pottery or even lacquerware. You will discover unique craftsmanship, brightly colored confections, and discovery workshops to get to know their profession a little better.
The discovery of these villages is possible thanks to the care of a local guide, which will allow you to savor the places in peace with loved ones and family.
Discover Hanoi in 3 days minimum
Exploring Hanoi means taking the time to know its history, to contemplate its monuments and to understand its people. We encourage you to stay at least 3 days, your stay in the capital will be unique and unforgettable, especially with us.
