Hanoi, the vibrant capital of Vietnam, is a city where history, culture, and modern life blend seamlessly. With a history spanning over a thousand years, Hanoi has witnessed the rise and fall of dynasties, colonial influences, and rapid urbanization while preserving its deep-rooted traditions. Known for its bustling Old Quarter, serene lakes, and exquisite cuisine, the city offers an endless array of experiences for visitors. But beyond its famous landmarks and tourist hotspots, Hanoi has many hidden gems waiting to be discovered. If you are looking for a fresh and exciting way to experience this incredible city, this guide to the Top 12 unique things to do in Hanoi will help you uncover activities that go beyond the ordinary.

Top 12 unique things to do in Hanoi

1. Vespa or motorbike adventure

Riding a Vespa or motorbike through Hanoi is one of the best ways to experience the city's energy. The streets are always busy, and walking can be overwhelming. But on a motorbike, you can weave through traffic, pass hidden alleys, and feel like a local. If you are not comfortable riding one yourself, you can join a Vespa tour where an experienced driver takes you around. This way, you can enjoy the ride without worrying about navigating. A motorbike adventure is about feeling the pulse of the city, stopping for street food, and seeing how daily life unfolds in Hanoi’s old and new districts.

One of the highlights of a motorbike tour is exploring areas that are often missed by tourists. You can ride through the narrow streets, where small shops and food stalls create a lively atmosphere. Some tours also take you to the countryside, where you can see rice paddies, traditional craft villages, and local markets.
 

2. Jeep Tour

If you prefer something more stable but still adventurous, a Jeep tour is another exciting way to explore Hanoi. These military-style vehicles were once used during the war, and now they provide a unique way to travel around the city. The open-air design of the vintage military Jeeps allows you to take in the city’s sights and sounds in a way that a regular car or bus never could. A Jeep ride takes you through both popular attractions and lesser-known spots. Many tours include a stop at West Lake for a relaxing moment by the water, a drive through the bustling streets of the Old Quarter, and even visits to local markets or hidden cafes. The rugged charm of the Jeep makes this experience even more special.

The bumpy ride, the wind in your hair, and the feeling of being in an open vehicle all add to the excitement. Some tours even offer night rides, where you can see Hanoi illuminated by neon lights and enjoy the city's nightlife from a new perspective.
 

3. Hanoi Train Street

For a completely different experience, you should visit Hanoi’s Train Street. This narrow alley, lined with homes and cafes, has a railway track running straight through it. What makes it fascinating is how close everything is to the train. When the train approaches, shopkeepers quickly move their tables and visitors press against the walls to let it pass. The sight of a massive train rushing through such a small space is thrilling. Many cafes here offer a perfect spot to watch the train while sipping Vietnamese coffee. Be sure to check the train schedule in advance, as authorities sometimes restrict access for safety reasons. But if you time it right, it’s a truly unique experience you won’t forget.
 

4. Tai Chi

If you are looking for something calmer, joining a Tai Chi session in Hanoi is a beautiful way to start your morning. Tai Chi is deeply rooted in Vietnamese culture and is seen as a way to maintain both physical and mental well-being. The gentle movements help to relieve stress and improve flexibility, making it an ideal activity for travelers looking to slow down and reconnect with themselves.

Around sunrise, many locals gather in parks like Hoan Kiem Lake or Lenin Park to practice this slow and graceful martial art. It may look simple, but Tai Chi requires balance, control, and focus. If you want to try it, some groups welcome visitors and will happily guide you through basic movements. Practicing Tai Chi in the fresh morning air, with the sound of birds and the city waking up around you, is an experience that brings a sense of peace and connection to Hanoi’s rhythm.
 

5. Visit Hanoi by night

If you’re wondering what are the best Things to do in Hanoi at night, some of the city’s famous sites have night tours, offering the opportunity to learn about them from a completely new perspective. The Temple of Literature, one of Hanoi’s most historic sites, looks even more magical when illuminated. Walking through its courtyards under the soft glow of lanterns gives you a sense of the past. Hoa Lo Prison, known as the "Hanoi Hilton," tells a gripping story of Vietnam’s history, and a night visit adds to the eerie atmosphere. Another must-see is the Thang Long Citadel, which becomes a peaceful place for an evening stroll, far from the daytime crowds. Hanoi at night is quieter, allowing you to appreciate its history and beauty in a more relaxed setting. You can also stop by one of Hanoi’s rooftop bars to enjoy a panoramic view of the city, sip on a cocktail, and watch the city lights twinkle in the distance.
 

6. Hanoi Farm Tour

Just a few kilometers from the center of Hanoi, you can visit traditional farms to see Vietnamese agriculture in action. These farms, often family-run, offer a unique opportunity to understand the rural way of life and the cultivation of local produce. Many farms on the outskirts welcome visitors who want to learn about local agriculture. You can try planting rice, harvesting vegetables, or even feeding animals. It’s a great hands-on experience that gives you a deeper appreciation for Vietnamese farming traditions.

Farming tours will immerse you in a peaceful environment, far from the hustle and bustle of the city, and allow you to taste fresh produce, often organic, grown directly on site. It's also an opportunity to interact with the farmers, who are happy to share their knowledge of traditional farming methods. After the farming activities, many tours also include a homemade meal prepared with fresh ingredients straight from the farm.
 

7. Cooking Class

Vietnamese cuisine is one of the tastiest in Asia, and taking a cooking class in Hanoi is a delicious way to discover the local culture. Several cooking schools offer courses where you can learn to prepare traditional dishes such as pho (noodle soup), bun cha (grilled pork with rice vermicelli) or banh cuon (stuffed rice rolls). 

Many classes start with a market visit, where you learn about fresh ingredients and how to pick the best ones. Once you have selected your produce, you will be accompanied by a local chef who will explain the cooking techniques and guide you through the preparation of the dishes. The best part is enjoying the meal at the end, knowing you made it yourself. Whether you are an experienced cook or a beginner, this activity is both fun and rewarding.
 

8. Hanoi Street Food Tour

The streets of Hanoi are dotted with small stalls and street vendors serving simple but delicious dishes, prepared before your very eyes. This type of cuisine, often fresh and prepared to order, reflects the essence of Vietnamese culture. Taking part in a guided tour will allow you to discover not only the local dishes, but also the history and traditions that surround them.

Local guides, passionate about their culinary heritage, will take you to popular and less touristy places where locals come to enjoy dishes such as pho (beef or chicken noodle soup), banh mi (Vietnamese sandwiches made with baguette, meat, vegetables and sauce), or nem (fried or fresh spring rolls). You'll also discover typical desserts such as chè (sweet soups), egg coffee, and more.
 

9. Meet a veteran

Meeting a veteran in Hanoi is an eye-opening experience that offers a deeply personal perspective on Vietnam’s history. These encounters offer a poignant and personal insight into the history of the war and how it shaped Hanoi. Many veterans work with local associations or museums to tell their stories, allowing visitors to hear first-hand accounts of a painful but crucial time for the country.

What makes this unique is the opportunity to hear firsthand accounts of wartime struggles, resilience, and the rebuilding of the country afterward. Listening to these stories gives you a greater appreciation of Vietnam’s past and how its people have moved forward with remarkable strength and optimism.
 

10. Calligraphy workshop

Vietnamese calligraphy is an ancient art form that combines aesthetics and philosophy, in particular the practice of ‘nôm’, a type of cursive writing unique to Vietnam, used before the adoption of the modern alphabet system. Vietnamese calligraphy, influenced by Chinese traditions, is often seen during Tet (Lunar New Year) when people seek auspicious words for good fortune.

Taking part in a calligraphy workshop in Hanoi offers you a unique chance to learn a traditional art while immersing yourself in Vietnamese culture. In these workshops, you will use a special brush, Indian ink, and red paper to learn how to write Nôm characters and understand the deep connection between writing, Vietnamese history, and beliefs. A skilled calligrapher will guide you through the elegant brush strokes and explain the meanings behind different characters. This experience is unique because it connects you with Vietnam’s artistic and spiritual heritage while giving you a hands-on activity to enjoy. You can even take your calligraphy work home as a meaningful souvenir.
 

11. Water puppet workshop

Water puppetry is one of Vietnam's most distinctive art forms, and is particularly popular in Hanoi. These puppets, often made of wood, are manipulated on the water to tell stories inspired by everyday life, Vietnamese culture, or even mythology. 

If you love traditional arts, a water puppet workshop at Mr. Liem’s house on Kham Thien Street is a must. During the workshop, you'll have the chance to discover the secrets behind the creation of these puppets, from their delicate paintwork to their complex construction. You'll also learn the techniques of manipulating them on water, a skill that requires precision and coordination. Unlike simply watching a water puppet show, this experience lets you interact with the art form in a way that few visitors ever get to do.
 

12. Yoga & Meditation

Practicing yoga and meditation in Hanoi offers a peaceful retreat from the city’s fast-paced life. In the morning or at the end of the day, outdoor yoga sessions take place in places such as Thong Nhat Park or around Hoan Kiem Lake. These sessions are often guided by local instructors who combine flowing movements with deep breathing techniques, allowing participants to reconnect with themselves in a tranquil and pleasant setting.

For those seeking a more complete immersion, several yoga and meditation centres, such as Zenith Yoga or Om Hanoi Yoga, offer wellness retreats combining yoga, meditation and relaxation, often in the heart of nature. Taking part in a yoga session or meditation retreat in Hanoi will not only allow you to relax both physically and mentally, but also to discover another facet of Vietnamese culture, one that is more spiritual and introspective.
 

Conclusion

Hanoi is a city that never stops surprising visitors with its mix of tradition and modernity. Whether you are riding through its chaotic streets on a Vespa, meeting a veteran to hear their incredible stories, or taking part in a traditional calligraphy workshop, each activity gives you a deeper understanding of the city and its people. These Top 12 unique things to do in Hanoi will not only introduce you to new experiences but also leave you with unforgettable memories. If you are planning a trip to Hanoi and want to explore beyond the usual tourist spots, consider booking a tour with Vietnam Original Travel. It’s the best way to truly connect with this incredible city and its rich culture.

>>> Top 15 best Things to do in Hanoi at Night

>>> Hanoi's Hidden Side & Meeting Veterans Tour