Luxury Tailor-Made Vietnam Holidays Hanoi 2025 & 2026
With its wide boulevards, ancient pagodas and tree-lined lakes, Vietnam’s capital is also the country’s most atmospheric and beguiling city. There is an energy and charm here arising from the genteel mix of French colonialism and Asian grace and tradition.
Enjoy a showcase of synchronised t’ai chi at Hoan Kiem Lake; stroll around the lively Old Quarter with its narrow streets with traders and hoards of scooters weaving in and out, and don’t miss the chance to see a water puppetry show at the Thang Long Puppet Theatre. Other places to visit include the Imperial Citadel of Thang Long, the Perfume Pagoda temple complex and the Hanoi Opera House in the heart of the French Quarter.
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Things to do and see in Hanoi
Hoan Kiem Lake and Ngoc Son Temple
Hoan Kiem Lake, which translates to "Lake of the Returned Sword," is named after a famous Vietnamese legend involving Emperor Le Loi. According to the story, in the early 15th century, Le Loi was given a magical sword by the gods, which he used to drive the Chinese invaders out of Vietnam. After his victory, while boating on the lake, a giant golden turtle surfaced and took the sword, returning it to the gods. This legend gives the lake its name and a deep cultural significance.
Ngoc Son Temple, or "Temple of the Jade Mountain," is dedicated to several important figures in Vietnamese history, including the national hero Tran Hung Dao, who is revered for his leadership during the wars against the Mongol invasions in the 13th century. The temple complex includes a beautiful pagoda, a pavilion, and several altars, each ornately decorated and imbued with historical and religious significance.
Visit the Old Quarter
Wander through the narrow, winding streets of Hanoi's Old Quarter, a vibrant maze where history and modernity blend seamlessly. The Old Quarter, known locally as "36 Streets," is the beating heart of Hanoi's commercial life, with each street traditionally devoted to a particular trade. This bustling area has been the centre of commerce for centuries, retaining much of its original charm while adapting to the needs of contemporary life.
Discover traditional shops, street food stalls, and bustling markets filled with vibrant sights and sounds. Don't miss the opportunity to try local delicacies like pho (Vietnamese noodle soup), banh mi (Vietnamese sandwich), and egg coffee, a unique Hanoi specialty made with whipped egg yolk.
Temple of Literature
Dedicated to Confucius, the Temple of Literature is Vietnam’s first university and a symbol of Hanoi’s rich educational heritage. Founded in 1070 by Emperor Ly Thanh Tong, it has been a place of learning for scholars for centuries, serving as a centre of Confucian education and a testament to Vietnam's longstanding reverence for knowledge and culture.
Throughout the year, the Temple of Literature hosts various cultural events and festivals, including the annual Tet Festival (Vietnamese Lunar New Year) and the Vietnamese Teachers' Day. During these times, the temple comes alive with traditional music, dance performances, and other cultural activities that celebrate Vietnam's heritage and educational achievements.
Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre
Experience the unique and mesmerising art form of water puppetry at the Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre. This traditional Vietnamese performance dates back to the 11th century, originating in the Red River Delta region. The art form was initially performed by villagers in flooded rice paddies, celebrating festivals and communal activities with these enchanting shows.
Water puppetry at the theatre features intricately designed wooden puppets controlled by skilled puppeteers who stand behind a bamboo screen, submerged in waist-deep water. The water not only serves as a stage but also adds a sense of fluidity and magic to the movements of the puppets. These puppeteers use long rods and string mechanisms to manoeuvre the puppets, creating lifelike motions that bring the characters to life on the water's surface.
Hanoi Opera House
Admire the stunning French colonial architecture of the Hanoi Opera House, a symbol of the city’s colonial history and cultural sophistication. Built in 1911 by French architects inspired by the Palais Garnier in Paris, the Hanoi Opera House is an exquisite example of neoclassical design, boasting grand pillars, ornate balconies, and intricate stonework.
Entering the Hanoi Opera House is like stepping back in time. The grand foyer welcomes visitors with its opulent marble floors, sweeping staircases, and stunning chandeliers. The walls and ceilings are adorned with detailed frescoes and decorative plasterwork, evoking the grandeur and elegance of a bygone era. The main staircase, with its red carpet and gold accents, is particularly impressive, offering a glimpse into the building's luxurious past.
Best Time to Visit Hanoi
The best times to visit Hanoi are in the spring (March to April) and autumn (September to November) when the weather is pleasant with mild temperatures and low humidity, ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities. Spring showcases blooming flowers and cultural festivals like the Hung Kings Temple Festival, while autumn offers picturesque foliage and the vibrant Mid-Autumn Festival. Summers are hot and humid with frequent showers, and winters are cool and dry, each offering unique experiences for visitors.
Sample Itineraries Including Hanoi
Our sample itineraries will show you suggestions for what you can do, see, and the best places to stay while travelling in Hanoi.
If you like the look of any of these below, let us know and we can completely tailor-make your trip so it is totally unique to you!
Grand Tour of Vietnam
Vietnam and Angkor Wat
Grand Tour of Vietnam with Nam Hai
Top Hotels in Hanoi
Build Your Tailor-Made Holiday to Vietnam
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