Lonely Planet, one of the leading travel magazines in the US, has given glowing praise to Hanoi, describing the capital of Vietnam as a charming and never boring destination. In an article titled "9 best things to do in Hanoi, according to the experience of local travel experts", the magazine has given unique suggestions, helping visitors fully experience the unique lifestyle and culture of the thousand-year-old city.
Below is a Hanoi discovery itinerary as advised by Lonely Planet, arranged and enriched to bring a complete travel experience.
Discover the unique features through street food and coffee culture
Hanoi is an exciting adventure for those who love to explore cities through local cuisine. Lonely Planet magazine emphasizes that this city is as alive as the breath of street food, with attractive flavors spreading to every corner. Pho, the dish that has made Vietnamese cuisine famous on the world map, is suggested as an experience not to be missed. Although each local will have a favorite pho address, all agree that traditional pho restaurants, passed down through generations, always have the most distinctive flavors. Besides pho, Lonely Planet also suggests visitors to try Bun Bo Nam Bo, Banh Cuon or Bun Cha - dishes that make up the richness of Hanoi cuisine.
If you love exploring new cities by discovering the best local food spots, then Hanoi is the perfect adventure.
Along with street food, coffee culture is also a unique feature of Hanoi. Lonely Planet describes Hanoi as a city of coffee, where trendy and modern cafes coexist with ancient traditional shops. Visitors are encouraged to explore the old town to enjoy iced brown coffee, egg coffee or coconut coffee. In particular, Lonely Planet mentioned Cafe Giang, where the famous egg coffee was created in 1946. This drink is covered with egg foam and condensed milk, giving it a creamy taste like a dessert, but still has enough strength of robusta coffee.
Hanoi coffee is very vibrant and diverse.
Immerse yourself in the rhythm of life and cultural space
To truly experience Hanoi, Lonely Planet suggests that visitors get lost among the 36 streets. This area, with hundreds of alleys and lanes intertwined like a maze, is where visitors can create their own adventure. Ignoring maps and fixed routes, visitors can walk, explore every corner, and capture everyday moments of the people, from street vendors, sidewalk barber shops to ancient houses stained by time.
"Lost" among 36 streets
Another unique experience suggested by Lonely Planet is the early morning at Hoan Kiem Lake. Around 6am, around the lake, visitors can see people exercising, dancing Tai Chi or participating in interesting "laughter yoga" classes. Lonely Planet describes Hoan Kiem Lake as picturesque at dawn and advises visitors to get up early to take a walk and observe the early morning life of Hanoians. If visitors smile and say "hello" to the locals, they can have a memorable experience while participating in morning activities.
Explore the Capital in every corner
In addition, the traditional art of water puppetry, with folk tales told through folk music genres such as Cheo and Quan Ho, is also introduced by Lonely Planet as a unique cultural feature. The funny puppets, along with lively dialogue and music, have brought a lot of joy to the audience and are a cultural experience not to be missed.
Explore historical depth and unique destinations
To better understand the depth of Vietnamese culture and history, the American magazine recommends that visitors visit the Museum of Ethnology. This is where a unique collection of 54 Vietnamese ethnic groups is displayed, with unique artifacts, costumes and architecture, giving visitors an overview of the country's diverse cultures. The most attractive point of the museum is the outdoor garden, where traditional houses of many ethnic groups are authentically recreated.
Lonely Planet also suggests that tourists should visit the Imperial Citadel of Thang Long to better understand the formation and development of Hanoi through the ages. Recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site, this complex of relics with ancient architectural works, monuments and impressive collections of artifacts has been the center of power for many centuries and is an important historical treasure of Vietnam.
Another unique destination suggested by Lonely Planet is Banana Island, a vast green area along the Red River. Once a banana plantation for locals, the area has now become an important green space, where Hanoians come to breathe fresh air, walk and camp, away from the hustle and bustle of the city.
Experience Hanoi like a local
Finally, to experience Hanoi in the most authentic way, Lonely Planet suggests that visitors should travel around the city by motorbike. Motorbikes are the most popular means of transport in Hanoi. Visitors can easily rent a motorbike or join a motorbike tour with a guide to explore the narrow alleys of the old town or the peaceful suburban roads. Lonely Planet asserts that motorbike tours offer a unique way to visit both famous and lesser-known landmarks, while enjoying delicious local dishes. This experience not only helps visitors explore the city effectively but also helps them immerse themselves in the hustle and bustle of the local life.
Experience Hanoi like a local
