As the capital of Vietnam, Hanoi is at the center of the country's culture and growth. And millions of visitors head to the fabled city every year on vacation. But sometimes you're only there for a day or so on an extended layover. That doesn't mean you can't enjoy yourself.
If you only have a day in Hanoi, there are a few things you can do to make the most of your time and experience the best the city has to offer. Look, you might not get all of these things done in 24 hours. You still need to sleep, after all. At the same time, it would be a lot of fun to try.
Hop on a motorbike food tour
If there are two things you'll find plenty of in Hanoi, it's motorbikes and incredible food. Taking a food tour on the back of a motorbike with a guide is a great way to combine the two. These can last up to four hours and take you to lots of local food hot spots. It's a great way to see the city and sample the amazing cuisine. Plus, the price of the tour usually includes all the food and drinks along the way.
Shop at Dong Xuan
Dong Xuan Market is likely the biggest and probably most crowded of its kind in the city. The energy can throw foreigners off a bit at first, but once you get in the groove it's an amazing place. This market is massive yet well organized and has basically anything you can think of. On top of that, Dong Xuan has a popular night market on the weekends if that's when you're around.
Take a private tour of the sights
Hanoi's beginnings go all the way back to the Third Century BCE, so you know there's a lot of history here. There are seemingly endless landmarks, architectural wonders, and more. For first timers on a limited schedule, knowing what to focus on can seem impossible. That's why a private tour with a local guide is a good idea. Over the course of a few hours, you'll see the key sights.
Wander the Old Quarter
The roots of this part of Hanoi go back to the time when it was established as the capital of Vietnam in the early 1000s. It is a mix of architectural and cultural influences, including both the French and the Buddhists. You'll find endless shops, cafes, and reminders of businesses in operation as long as the Old Quarter has been there. Some say this is the beating heart of the city itself.
End the day on a rooftop bar
Another thing Hanoi seems to have in spades is tall buildings with rooftop bars on them. They range drastically in quality, cost, and vibe, which means you can find the perfect one for you if you look hard enough. Hanoi moves fast and it sure doesn't slow down for tourists. These rooftop bars are where you go at the end your day to unwind and take in the view.