Vietnam’s bustling capital offers no-nonsense historical tours that cut straight to the city’s fascinating past. The best experiences center around three must-see landmarks: the UNESCO-listed Imperial Citadel, the 1,000-year-old Temple of Literature, and the sobering Hoa Lo Prison. I’m particularly fond of the morning walking tours that combine these sites with local street food stops – they’re intimate (8-12 people max) and surprisingly affordable at $25-35 per person.
For history buffs, the full-day “Hanoi Through Time” tour stands out, pairing expert guides with less-crowded afternoon time slots. Local family-run operators consistently outperform larger companies, offering more authentic insights and better value.
Browse our tested and recommended historical tours below to find your perfect Hanoi experience.
Key Points
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Hanoi offers a range of guided historical tours that highlight the city’s rich cultural heritage, including ancient temples, colonial architecture, and insightful commentary from local experts.
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Many tours provide a comprehensive experience, with inclusions such as authentic local meals, cultural performances, and comfortable transportation, ensuring a well-rounded exploration of Hanoi’s history.
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Diverse tour options cater to various interests, from immersive walking tours through the Old Quarter to specialized experiences focusing on traditional houses, ancient temples, and Halong Bay cruises.
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Key historical landmarks like Hoan Kiem Lake, Hoa Lo Prison, and the Imperial Citadel of Thang Long are often featured in Hanoi’s historical tours, offering insights into the city’s cultural significance.
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Hanoi’s historical tours are generally accessible to most travelers, with flexible cancellation policies, group discounts, and a range of pricing options to suit different budgets.
Hanoi Food, Culture, History With Professional Tour Guide
For those seeking to experience Hanoi’s vibrant food, rich culture, and captivating history, this guided tour offers an immersive and convenient package.
Travelers can enjoy a cyclo ride, a walking food tour in the Old Quarter, and a 30-minute foot massage, all led by a professional guide.
The tour includes 5-8 Vietnamese dishes and beverages, lunch, and an iconic egg coffee.
With a 5.0 rating and 100% recommendation from previous guests, this tour provides an excellent way to discover Hanoi’s hidden gems, often missed by independent travelers.
Pickup is available from most Old Quarter hotels, making it a hassle-free experience.
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Hanoi Street Food & Heritage Road by Walking
Travelers seeking to enjoy Hanoi’s rich cultural heritage and vibrant street food scene can embark on a captivating 3-hour walking tour. Priced from $27.03 per person, this tour showcases the city’s historic landmarks, including the ancient O Quan Chuong Gate and the iconic Long Bien Bridge.
Participants will explore the charming Old Quarter, browse the bustling Dong Xuan Market, and witness the unique sight of trains passing through residential areas at Train Street.
The highlight of the tour is indulging in 8-10 local Hanoi specialties, such as pho, banh mi, and bun cha, while sipping on an iconic egg coffee.
With a live English-speaking guide, this tour offers a well-rounded cultural and culinary experience.
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Hanoi Coffee Workshop: Make Taste 5 Iconic Brews + History Story
Enjoy the rich coffee culture of Hanoi during this captivating 2-hour coffee workshop.
Rated 5.0 from over 1,400 reviews, the Hanoi Coffee Workshop allows you to craft 5 iconic Vietnamese coffee drinks, including the unique Egg Coffee and Coconut Coffee.
Led by experienced baristas, you’ll learn the history, growing, and roasting process of Vietnamese coffee.
The workshop includes round-trip transportation, all equipment, and an informative session on Vietnam’s coffee heritage.
With a maximum group size of 15, you’ll enjoy a hands-on, personalized experience in an intimate, cozy setting.
Don’t miss this opportunity to discover the extraordinary flavors of Hanoi’s coffee culture.
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Hanoi Walking Tour: Visit Cultural Sites & Discover History
Visitors exploring Hanoi’s rich cultural heritage will find the Hanoi Walking Tour an immersive experience. Priced from $28.26 per person, the 3.5-hour tour showcases the city’s historical highlights, including the bustling Hanoi Old Quarter.
Guests will soak up the vibrant atmosphere, learn about local culture from knowledgeable guides, and sample authentic Vietnamese snacks. The tour provides skip-the-line access for a seamless experience.
Throughout the journey, guides share fascinating stories that bring the area’s architectural and historical significance to life. Strolling through lively markets, visitors can enjoy the local way of life and savor the flavors that make Vietnamese cuisine renowned worldwide.
With free cancellation and reserve-now-pay-later options, this walking tour offers an excellent value.
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From Hanoi : Sapa Moutain Trek – Halong Bay Heritage
This tour from Hanoi takes travelers on an unforgettable journey through the captivating landscapes of Sapa and the UNESCO-recognized Halong Bay.
The 2-day all-inclusive cruise in Halong Bay highlights Luon Cave, Titop Island, and Surprising Cave. Guests can enjoy activities like Tai Chi, squid fishing, kayaking, and a sunset party.
Accommodation is in deluxe en-suite cabins, and all meals are included. The base price is $350 per person, with additional costs for solo travelers and optional activities like the cable car to Fansipan Mountain.
The tour includes transportation, guide services, and entrance fees. Reviews are generally positive, praising the boat’s cleanliness and staff friendliness, though some issues with guide handling of passports have been noted.
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Hanoi Old Quarter: Private Walking Tour to Historical Sites.
A private walking tour of Hanoi’s renowned Old Quarter offers travelers a captivating glimpse into the city’s rich history and vibrant cultural heritage.
Lasting 3.5 hours, this tour provides an immersive experience, exploring traditional houses, ancient temples, and lively markets. Guests will learn about local culture and history from a knowledgeable guide while sampling authentic Vietnamese snacks.
The tour includes pickup service, entrance fees, and English-speaking guides. Priced from $37.89 per person with free cancellation, this private group experience is a great way to explore the Old Quarter’s architectural brilliance and fascinating stories.
Comfortable shoes and a camera are recommended for this engaging historical tour.
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Old Quarter Hanoi Street Foods and Heritage Road Tour by Walking
Frequently, travelers explore Hanoi’s renowned Old Quarter on the Old Quarter Hanoi Street Foods and Heritage Road Tour by Walking.
This 3-hour walking tour takes visitors to sample 6-7 different Vietnamese street foods, sip on a drink and beer, and try the iconic egg coffee.
The tour has a maximum of 20 participants and is wheelchair and stroller-friendly.
Starting at 78a Trần Nhật Duật Street and ending at Hanoi Train Street, the tour showcases the area’s rich heritage and vibrant food culture.
With a 5.0 rating from 89 reviews and a Badge of Excellence, this tour provides an immersive cultural experience for just $39 per person.
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Hanoi Old Quarter: Cultural and Historical Walking Tour
Visitors exploring Hanoi’s renowned Old Quarter often embark on the Hanoi Old Quarter: Cultural and Historical Walking Tour. This 3.5-hour experience immerses guests in the area’s rich history and vibrant culture.
Led by knowledgeable guides, the tour explores traditional houses, ancient temples, and lively markets, revealing unique stories and Vietnamese architectural brilliance. Participants enjoy authentic Vietnamese snacks and experience local life through markets and vendors.
Highlights include sightseeing in the Old Quarter, learning about the area’s culture and history, and a comfortable walking experience through the narrow, winding streets. The tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, and personal expenses and tips are recommended but not included.
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Hanoi Full Day A Private Tour With Mix of History and Activities
On this Hanoi Full Day Private Tour, travelers enjoy a captivating blend of history and engaging activities.
Rated 5.0 out of 53 reviews, the tour is recommended by 100% of travelers and boasts a Badge of Excellence. Included are a Vietnamese set menu lunch, bottled water, an English-speaking guide, and all entrance tickets.
Travelers are picked up in Hanoi at 8:00 AM and explore the city’s rich heritage.
While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible or suitable for those with back problems or serious medical conditions, most travelers can participate.
Priced from $160 per person, the tour offers free cancellation and rescheduling up to 24 hours in advance.
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Hanoi: Private Museum, History and Mausoleum Tour
Immersive exploration awaits travelers on the Hanoi Private Museum, History and Mausoleum Tour. Priced from $79 per person, this 5-hour private tour offers a comprehensive look at Hanoi’s rich history and cultural heritage.
Highlights include visits to the Ho Chi Minh Complex, One Pillar Pagoda, Tran Quoc Pagoda, and the Temple of Literature. Guests will also explore the scenic Hoan Kiem Lake and have the option to visit the centuries-old Quang Phu Cau Incense Village.
The tour includes transportation, entrance fees, a set-menu lunch, and an English-Vietnamese speaking guide. With a 5/5 rating based on verified reviews, this tour provides excellent value and a deeply immersive experience.
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Ninh Binh Heritage Trip in a Day
Travelers eager to explore the rich heritage of Ninh Binh can embark on a comprehensive day trip offered by Vietnam Exploration Booking. Priced from $56 per person, the tour includes a high-quality air-conditioned van or bus, English-speaking guide, all entry fees, new bikes for cycling, and an authentic local lunch.
With a maximum of 17 participants, the tour is 100% recommended by past travelers. Pickup is prioritized around Hanoi’s Old Quarter, and free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the experience.
Operating daily from 7 AM to 11 PM, this Ninh Binh Heritage trip is an excellent way to discover the region’s historical and natural wonders.
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Hanoi Historic Jeep Tour: A Taste of Culture, Sights & Fun
Embracing the vibrant streets of Hanoi, the Hanoi Historic Jeep Tour: A Taste of Culture, Sights & Fun offers a captivating exploration of the city’s rich heritage and modern allure.
Priced at $69.22 per person, this 4-hour tour takes travelers through local alleyways, French and Old Quarter landmarks, and the serene West Lake.
Guests can enjoy traditional Hanoian cuisine and optional stops at significant sites like the Hanoi Train Street.
With a live English-speaking guide, the tour provides a unique perspective on the contrast between Hanoi’s traditional and contemporary aspects.
Consistently earning high reviews, this jeep adventure is an excellent choice for those seeking an immersive cultural experience in the heart of Vietnam’s capital.
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Full-Day Hanoi City History Tour
The Full-Day Hanoi City History Tour offers an in-depth exploration of Vietnam’s capital, providing visitors with a comprehensive understanding of the city’s rich cultural heritage.
The tour features visits to iconic landmarks like the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and the One Pillar Pagoda, as well as the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology, where travelers can enjoy the diverse customs and traditions of the country.
A delicious barbecued pork lunch (Bun Cha) is included, and the tour concludes with a stroll through the vibrant Old Quarter, offering ample opportunities for photography.
With an English-speaking guide, private transportation, and all entrance fees covered, this tour is an excellent choice for those seeking an authentic Hanoi experience.
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Hanoi Historic Army Jeep: Culture, Sightseeing and Fun
On the Hanoi Historic Army Jeep tour, visitors embark on a thrilling journey through the vibrant capital, seeing the city’s rich cultural heritage and captivating sights.
Priced at $67.59 per person, this 4-hour experience offers a unique opportunity to explore Hanoi’s backstreets, the iconic Long Bien Bridge, and the picturesque West Lake.
Aboard a vintage Army Jeep, guests enjoy a personalized tour with an English-speaking guide, indulging in traditional Hanoian cuisine along the way.
With the option to include stops at the charming Train Street and West Lake, this tour promises a well-rounded exploration of Hanoi’s historic and cultural highlights, all while embracing the city’s lively atmosphere.
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4 Hours and 30 Minutes Historical Hanoi Army Jeep Tour
For the 4 Hours and 30 Minutes Historical Hanoi Army Jeep Tour, visitors embark on an immersive journey through the vibrant city of Hanoi.
Rated 5.0 with 100% traveler recommendation, this tour offers a comprehensive experience that includes lunch, an English-speaking guide, and all entrance fees.
Guests ride in a classic US Army Jeep, with the option of scuba equipment use. The tour provides wheelchair-accessible transportation and infant seats, making it accessible for all.
Highlighting the city’s rich history, the tour features stops at a local farmer’s house and other significant landmarks.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours prior, this tour is a must-do for those seeking an engaging historical exploration of Hanoi.
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From Hanoi: Ninh Binh 2-Day Culture, Heritage & Scenic Tour
Visitors seeking a deeper exploration of Vietnam’s rich heritage and stunning scenery can embark on the Ninh Binh 2-Day Culture, Heritage & Scenic Tour. This two-day excursion from Hanoi takes travelers to the picturesque Ninh Binh province, where they’ll discover ancient capital sites, explore river caves, and witness breathtaking vistas.
The tour includes boat trips, biking, and visits to the Bai Dinh Pagoda, the largest in Vietnam. With an English-speaking guide, transportation, and meals provided, this tour offers a comprehensive cultural experience at a reasonable price of $138 per person.
Though some past guests have had mixed reviews, the tour’s highlight ratings suggest an enjoyable and immersive journey through Ninh Binh’s remarkable landscapes and heritage.
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Private Hanoi Coffee History Tour
Delving into Hanoi’s rich coffee culture, the Private Hanoi Coffee History Tour takes participants on a captivating journey through the city’s storied past.
Priced at $45 per person, this private tour lasts from 12:00 PM to 6:30 PM, Monday through Sunday, with a 5-star average rating from 6 reviews.
Highlights include 4 cups of coffee, a tea set, and an informative guide known for their excellent English and helpfulness.
Though not wheelchair accessible, the tour can accommodate infants. Participants can opt for pickup or head directly to the meeting point, a water fountain next to a lake in Hanoi.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours prior, this tour offers a flexible and immersive exploration of Hanoi’s coffee legacy.
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Hanoi City: Full-day Charming Cultural Tour
This full-day cultural tour of Hanoi offers an immersive exploration of the city’s rich history and heritage.
Priced from $99 per person, the 8.5-hour tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, a live English-speaking guide, and visits to iconic sites like the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, the Temple of Literature, and the Vietnamese Women’s Museum.
Highlights include a guided tour of Ho Chi Minh’s Mausoleum, a pedicab ride through the Old Quarter, and lunch at a local restaurant.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, this comprehensive tour is a great way to experience Hanoi’s top attractions in a single day.
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NINH BINH Package Tour in 2 Days/ 1 Night: Visit World Heritage Site & Eco Tour
Travelers embarking on the 2-day/1-night Ninh Binh package tour can expect an immersive exploration of the province’s rich history and captivating natural beauty.
The tour includes visits to Hoa Lu, the historic capital, and the breathtaking Mua Caves, where they can trek for scenic views. Visitors will also discover the grandeur of Bai Dinh Pagoda.
Complimentary meals, accommodation, and all transportation and activities are included, ensuring a hassle-free experience. While alcoholic beverages and drinks are excluded, a small surcharge applies during peak seasons.
With a maximum of 25 travelers, this tour provides an intimate and personalized journey through Ninh Binh’s UNESCO-recognized wonders.
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Hanoi: Duong Lam Historical Village Private Day Tour
Embarking on a private day trip from Hanoi, visitors can enjoy the captivating history and traditional charm of Duong Lam Historical Village.
Located in the northern Red River Delta, this village is known for its well-preserved brick homes and agricultural lifestyle.
The tour includes visits to a local temple and pagoda, as well as a lunch at an ancient house featuring regional specialties.
With private pick-up and drop-off services, an English-speaking guide, and inclusions like mineral water and tissue, this experience offers a comprehensive and comfortable way to explore Duong Lam’s rich heritage.
While not wheelchair accessible, the tour is suitable for most travelers, with a minimum of 2 people required for booking.
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The Sum Up
Hanoi offers a wealth of historical tours for visitors. From walking tours showcasing the city’s cultural heritage to day trips exploring nearby historic sites, there’s something for every traveler interested in Hanoi’s rich history. Whether you’re seeking an immersive food and culture experience or a guided trek through the scenic Sapa mountains, Hanoi’s diverse tour options provide an engaging way to discover the city’s fascinating past.