15 Best Tours In Hanoi

Hanoi is a city that calls out to travelers with its bustling streets, fragrant food stalls, and layers of history. Unlike many tourist spots where the main attraction can blur together, Hanoi offers a uniquely local experience—whether it’s tasting egg coffee along a train track or cruising past limestone karsts in Ninh Binh. We love the Hanoi Guided Food Tour with Train Street, for example, because it combines authentic bites with the thrill of watching a train pass just inches away. This tour exemplifies Hanoi’s lively street culture and offers a taste of everyday life that’s hard to match elsewhere.

What makes Hanoi especially good for tours? Its compact Old Quarter is perfect for walking, and the city’s street food scene is as vibrant as its history. Many tours also venture outside the city for scenic day trips, like the Ninh Binh tour, which features limestone mountains, ancient temples, and boat rides. The variety of options—guided food walks, motorbike explorations, and full-day excursions—means there is something for every type of traveler. Below, we’ve compiled a list of the best tours in Hanoi, highlighting what makes each one special.

1. Hanoi: Guided Food Tour with Train Street Visit

At number one, this guided food tour combines Hanoi’s most beloved dishes with the adrenaline of watching a train whiz by on Train Street. You’ll wander through the Old Quarter, sampling local favorites like Banh Xeo and Banh Cuon, while a knowledgeable guide explains their origins and cultural significance. The highlight is the train pass-by, which happens often enough to keep the excitement high—just be sure to schedule your visit during one of the flexible start times. The tour lasts around 3.5 to 4 hours and is priced very reasonably at $18 per person.

Guests rave about the informative guides and the variety of food, with many wishing they’d done it earlier in their trip to know what to try again on their own. The tour includes a cup of egg coffee, a must-try Hanoi specialty, and ends with a visit to a puppet show. It’s perfect for those who want an immersive experience that combines local flavors with a touch of adventure. This tour’s value for money is excellent, especially considering the personalized attention and unique Train Street encounter.

Bottom line: If you’re after a lively, taste-rich experience that demonstrates Hanoi’s street life and culinary diversity, this tour is a top pick.

2. Hanoi: Street Food Tour with Train Street & Hidden Alleyways

Number two on our list explores 7 local dishes at family-run restaurants, with an emphasis on authentic flavors. This small-group experience includes access to Hanoi’s secret Train Street—guaranteed train sighting and a drink included make this especially memorable. Your guide takes you through the vibrant Old Quarter, sharing stories of Hanoi’s culture as you taste dishes like Banh Mi and Pho. The tour runs at a relaxed pace, ideal for food lovers and curious explorers, and vegetarian options are available with prior notice.

This tour is praised for its personalized attention and insider access. The relaxed group size means you’ll get more interaction with the guide and have time to ask questions about Hanoi’s culinary traditions. The combination of street food, local culture, and the spectacle of Train Street makes it a well-rounded taste of Hanoi’s current life and culinary heritage.

Bottom line: Perfect for travelers who want a delicious, intimate, and slightly adventurous introduction to Hanoi’s street food scene.

3. Hanoi: Ninh Binh, Bai Dinh/Hoa Lu, Trang An, & Mua Cave Tour

Seeking scenic landscapes and historical sites? The Ninh Binh day trip offers a full day exploring limestone mountains, ancient temples, and river caves. You’ll travel comfortably by limousine bus from Hanoi and visit the Bai Dinh Pagoda, the largest Buddhist complex in Vietnam, with a vegetarian buffet lunch included. The boat ride through Trang An features limestone karsts rising from emerald waters, often called “Halong Bay on land.”

Climbing to the top of Mua Cave provides sweeping views of the surrounding countryside, making it a photographer’s dream. The reviews highlight the professionalism of guides and the natural beauty, with travelers noting the tour’s good value given the comprehensive itinerary. It’s perfect for those wanting a mix of nature, history, and easy activity.

Bottom line: If you crave stunning scenery and cultural exploration in a manageable day trip, this tour delivers well.

4. Hanoi: Guided Street Food Tour with Train Street Experience

This small-group tour focuses on authentic street food and Hanoi’s iconic Train Street. Over three hours, you’ll sample dishes like Banh Xeo and Banh Cuon while exploring the city’s backstreets with a local guide. The train pass-by is the tour’s star attraction, providing a rush of excitement as a train passes inches from where you’re seated. The tour concludes with a visit to Train Street, perfect for photos and memories.

The guide, often praised as knowledgeable and friendly, shares insider tips on Hanoi’s best food spots. The tour is limited to around 10 people, ensuring you get personal attention. Reviewers mention how fun and well-organized it is, with many saying it’s a highlight of their trip.

Bottom line: If you love street food and want to experience the thrill of Train Street, this tour offers a fun, adrenaline-filled adventure.

5. Ninh Binh Full-Day Small Group of 9 Guided Tour from Hanoi

For a comprehensive day trip, this small-group tour takes you through Ninh Binh’s most iconic sights. Visiting Mua Cave, Tam Coc, and Hoa Lu, you’ll enjoy a panoramic view from Mua, a boat ride through Tam Coc’s caves, and a visit to the Dinh and Le Dynasties temples. The tour includes lunch with vegetarian options and comfortable limousine transfers from Hanoi.

Tour guide Bruce Lee is often singled out for making the trip lively and informative, with visitors noting it’s a perfect balance of activity and sightseeing. The small group size means more interaction and flexibility, ideal for travelers wanting a personal experience.

Bottom line: If you prefer a relaxed, intimate group exploring Vietnam’s countryside and historic sites, this tour is a great fit.

6. Private Tour Halong Bay One Day with Cave, Kayaking, Bamboo Boat

This private tour offers a personalized experience of Halong Bay’s breathtaking limestone formations. Starting early and ending late, you’ll cruise on a traditional boat, visit Sung Sot Cave, and enjoy kayaking or bamboo boating. The tour includes seafood lunch and only takes about 9 to 11 hours, making it a full but manageable day.

Rated 5.0, many reviews emphasize the attention to detail and flexibility. The guide takes care of logistics, so you can relax and focus on the scenery. It’s perfect for families, couples, or small groups seeking exclusivity and comfort.

Bottom line: For a tailored, private day in Halong Bay with plenty of opportunities for adventure, this tour hits the mark.

7. Hanoi Motorbike Tours Led By Women: Hanoi City Insight

Experience Hanoi from the back of a motorbike on this small-group tour led by women guides. Covering key sights like the Long Bien Bridge, West Lake, and Hanoi Opera House, you’ll see the city’s diverse neighborhoods in a relaxed 4.5-hour ride. The tour emphasizes culture, history, and local life, with stops for coffee and photo opportunities.

Rated five stars, travelers appreciate the friendly guides and the personalized experience. It’s a great way for those who want a dynamic, close-up view of Hanoi, especially if walking isn’t your thing or you want to cover more ground.

Bottom line: If you’re comfortable on a motorbike and want an energetic tour that hits all the highlights, this is an exciting choice.

8. Hanoi City Tour Highlight, Train Street Combine visit Countryside

This 4.5-hour private tour offers a balanced mix of Hanoi’s urban sights and countryside. Traveling by open-air jeep, you’ll explore the French Quarter, Ba Dinh Square, and West Lake. The tour ends with a delicious Vietnamese lunch. The highlight is the seamless combination of city highlights and rural scenery, providing a broader perspective of Vietnam’s capital.

Rated 5.0, travelers find the tour well-organized and informative, with the flexibility of choosing morning or afternoon options. Ideal for those who want to see both the busy city and peaceful countryside in one day.

Bottom line: Perfect for travelers who want a flexible, personalized overview of Hanoi and beyond.

9. Ha Noi Walking Food Tour, Non Vegetarian, Vegan, vegetarian Option

This 2.5-hour walking tour is perfect for food lovers eager to try 7 or more dishes. It covers Hoan Kiem Walking Street, the Night Market, and Old Quarter, with tastings of local favorites like Pho and sweet soup. The guide explains each dish’s story and ingredients, making this a learning experience as well.

Rated 5/5, travelers mention the delicious food and engaging guide, with special mention of the variety of dishes and friendly atmosphere. It’s ideal for those short on time but wanting a taste of Hanoi’s culinary soul.

Bottom line: If you want a quick, flavorful immersion into Hanoi’s street food, this tour will satisfy your appetite.

10. Halong Bay Day Tour With Titop Island, Cave, Kayak & Lunch

This full-day group tour departs early from Hanoi for Halong Bay, including a seafood lunch, kayak adventure at Luon Cave, and a climb to the top of Titop Island for panoramic views. You’ll visit Sung Sot Cave and enjoy the sunset on the way back—a highlight for many travelers.

Rated 5.0, reviews praise the well-organized schedule and friendly guide. The tour balances adventure and relaxation, suitable for active travelers who want a comprehensive day in one of Vietnam’s most famous natural sites.

Bottom line: For an active, scenic, and full experience of Halong Bay, this trip offers excellent value.

11. Ninh Binh Day Tour To Visit Hoa Lu – Trang An/Tam Coc – Mua Cave

A consistent favorite, this 12-hour tour explores Ninh Binh’s core sites. Visiting Hoa Lu’s ancient temples, enjoying boat rides through Tam Coc or Trang An, and climbing Mua Cave for views make for a balanced, activity-packed day. The small group size of up to 20 ensures a personal touch, and the lunch with vegetarian options is included.

Reviews highlight the entertaining and knowledgeable guide along with the scenic beauty. It’s best suited for travelers who want a full immersion into northern Vietnam’s landscape and history.

Bottom line: If you want a comprehensive, well-organized day trip with plenty of photo opportunities, this tour delivers.

12. Hanoi: Guided Street Food Tour with Tastings

This food-focused tour takes you through Hanoi’s Old Quarter with a local guide, sampling 7+ dishes like Bún Chả and Bánh Xèo. The tour emphasizes authentic flavors and the stories behind each dish, with a small group for a more personal experience. It’s a great way to explore Hanoi’s culinary scene without the hassle of figuring out where to go.

Rated 4.9, reviews mention the delicious food and the knowledgeable guide. It’s ideal for those who want a relaxed, immersive food tour that highlights Vietnam’s cuisine.

Bottom line: Perfect for foodies wanting a taste of Hanoi’s most iconic dishes in a fun, informal setting.

13. Hanoi Guided Street Food Tour Small Group

This 4-hour walking tour focuses on street food in Hanoi’s Old Quarter, with 7 dishes and drinks included. Led by a guide with deep local knowledge, you’ll explore hidden alleys, try local specialties like Nem Rán, and learn about Vietnamese culinary traditions. The small group size ensures everyone gets attention and plenty of tastings.

Rated 5/5, travelers appreciate the variety of food and the insider tips. It’s a good choice for those who want a short, flavorful introduction to Hanoi.

Bottom line: If you’re after an authentic, bite-sized street food experience, this tour fits the bill.

14. Hanoi Walking Street Food Tour with Train-Street Visit

This 3-4 hour tour covers Hanoi’s culinary staples and includes a stop at Train Street. You’ll visit several food stalls and sample dishes like spring rolls and Bánh Căn, guided by a friendly English-speaking guide. The limited group size makes for a personalized experience, and the train sighting is a memorable highlight.

Rated 5/5, reviews praise the awesome guide Lena and the variety of food. Perfect for a quick, fun, and tasty exploration of Hanoi’s street eats.

Bottom line: If you want a well-rounded, taste-focused tour with a dash of excitement, this is a top choice.

15. Hanoi Food Tours in Hanoi Old Quarter (Small Group/Private)

Finally, this 3-hour private or small-group tour offers an up-close look at Hanoi’s culinary scene. Your guide will take you to up to 10 dishes, including street food specialties and local drinks. The private option means a more personalized experience, ideal for foodies or travelers with specific dietary needs.

Rated 5.0, the reviews highlight the delicious food and the knowledge of the guide. It’s suited for travelers who want an intimate, flexible experience with plenty of tastings.

Bottom line: If personalized service and a broad tasting experience are your priorities, this tour will satisfy.

How to Choose Your Perfect Hanoi Tour

Choosing the right tour depends on your interests, budget, and time. For a culinary adventure, consider Hanoi: Guided Food Tour with Train Street or Hanoi Guided Street Food Tour Small Group. If landscape and history are more your style, the Ninh Binh day trips and full-day excursions offer stunning scenery with cultural depth. For those seeking a more personalized experience, private tours like Halong Bay’s Cave, Kayaking, Bamboo Boat or the Hanoi City Insight Motorbike Tour provide exclusivity and flexibility.

Consider your activity level—walking food tours are perfect if you love to eat and explore on foot, while motorbike or private boat trips suit travelers who want comfort and privacy. Booking early, especially for popular tours, ensures you secure your preferred times.

Hanoi offers a fantastic variety of tours that cater to every traveler. Whether you want a food-focused experience, a cultural exploration, or a scenic day trip, the list above has something to match your style. For a taste of Hanoi’s real life, grab your walking shoes or motorbike helmet and start booking—these tours fill up fast, and the sooner you plan, the better your trip will be.