Hanoi History & Culture Full-Day City Tour

  • Hanoi
  • 0 booked
  • Duration: 1 Day
  • Group size: 1 - 15 person
  • Language: English
  • Tour type: Best-Selling Tours
  • Transport: Minivan or Bus Tour
  • Physical rating
  • Accommodation: Upon request
  • Meals: Lunch
  • Start:
Hanoi offers a rich tapestry of cultural heritage, sacred temples, French colonial architecture, peaceful lakes, and vibrant street life. On this full-day guided tour, you will discover the city’s most iconic landmarks, learn about Vietnam’s diverse ethnic cultures, explore spiritual pagodas, and step back in time to understand its turbulent past. This experience is perfect for travelers who want a deeper connection with Hanoi’s history, culture, and everyday charm.

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Hightlight tour

Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum
Vietnam Ethnology Museum
Tran Quoc Pagoda
Temple of Literature
Hoa Lo Prison
Cyclo tour
Water Puppets Show

Itinerary

Hanoi History & Culture Full-Day City Tour


08:00 – 08:30 | Pick up time

Our guide will pick you up in the lobby of your hotel in Hanoi and ease into the rhythm of Hanoi as we make our way through the lively streets of the Old Quarter.

08:45 | Visit Ho Chi Minh Complex – A Place of Great Respect

Our first stop is one of Vietnam’s most meaningful landmarks: the Ho Chi Minh Complex. Here, stories of independence and national pride come to life.

You’ll walk through peaceful gardens to visit:

  • Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, where Vietnamese people come to honor “Uncle Ho.”

  • His Stilt House, still preserved exactly as he lived and worked from 1954–1969.

  • One Pillar Pagoda, a centuries-old symbol of luck and compassion, standing gracefully above a lotus pond.

As you explore, your guide will share fascinating insights into Ho Chi Minh’s humble lifestyle and his lasting impact on the country.

Note: Modest clothing is required (shoulders & knees covered).
The Mausoleum is closed on Mondays, Fridays, and June 15–August 15 for annual maintenance. You can still explore the complex and take photos from the outside on these days.

Our journey continues at the Vietnam Ethnology Museum, where the traditions of 54 ethnic minority groups are beautifully showcased through artifacts, traditional homes, and cultural stories. It’s an enriching window into Vietnam’s diversity—from mountain tribes to river-delta communities.

If visiting on a Monday:
The museum is closed, so we will instead explore the Vietnamese Women’s Museum, a wonderful tribute to the strength, beauty, and resilience of Vietnamese women throughout history.

12:30 – 12:45 | Vietnamese Lunch – A Taste of Local Flavors

We pause for a delicious Vietnamese meal at a local restaurant. Enjoy the rich flavors of Hanoi’s cuisine, from fresh herbs to fragrant broths. Vegetarian and special dietary options are available on request.

After lunch, we visit Tran Quoc Pagoda, the oldest pagoda in Hanoi, set on a small island in the middle of West Lake. Here, the peaceful breeze and shimmering water create one of the city’s most tranquil scenes. Your guide will share stories dating back to the 6th century as you enjoy the serenity of this ancient spiritual site.

Next, step back nearly a thousand years at the Temple of Literature, built in 1070 to honor Confucius and generations of scholars. Walk through historic courtyards, ancient stone steles, and traditional red-tiled roofs as you discover why this temple remains one of Hanoi’s most treasured cultural icons.

Our final stop is Hoa Lo Prison, built by the French in the late 19th century. Known during wartime as the “Hanoi Hilton,” this museum offers a powerful look into the hardships endured by Vietnamese revolutionaries and the complex chapters of Vietnam’s history. It’s a sobering, insightful experience that gives deeper meaning to the city’s struggle for independence.

16:30 | Journey Back to Your Hotel

After a day filled with stories, culture, and unforgettable sights, we make our way back to your hotel in the Old Quarter. As the sun lowers and Hanoi’s streets begin to glow, you’ll return with a richer understanding of this remarkable city.

What to prepare

  1. Comfortable shoes
  2. Modest clothing covering shoulders & knees (important for temples and Mausoleum)
  3. Sunscreen & insect repellent
  4.  Camera & power bank
  5. Cash & cards
  6. Raincoat/umbrella (seasonal)

 


What’s Included

  • High-quality transportation throughout the tour
  • Professional English-speaking guide
  • All entrance fees
  • 01 bottle of mineral water per person
  • Vietnamese set-menu lunch
  • Hotel pick-up & drop-off (Old Quarter area)

 


What’s Excluded

  • Drinks during lunch
  • Optional activities (Cyclo, Water Puppet Show)
  • Tips for guide & driver
  • Personal expenses
  • Any service not clearly mentioned above

 


Price

  • Early booking will receive a 30% discount
  • Children will receive a 10% discount
  • Groups will receive a 25% discount

Optional add-ons (upon request)

Enhance your Hanoi experience with one of these activities (bookable after touring Hoa Lo Prison):

  • Cyclo Ride (45 mins) – $8/person
    A relaxing ride around the Old Quarter’s narrow, vibrant streets.

  • Water Puppet Show (50 mins) – $8/person
    A traditional art form unique to northern Vietnam.
    Recommended showtimes: 16:10 or 17:20

  • Combo: Cyclo + Water Puppet Show – $15/person
    Recommended showtime: 17:20 or 18:30

 

 


Additional Information

  • You will receive a confirmation within 24 working hours after submitting your booking request.
  • This tour is operated as a Small/ medium group tour and it can be customized as a private tour.

  • Multi-lingual guides are available upon request (French, German, Spanish, Korean, and Japanese).

  • Expect a moderate amount of walking during sightseeing activities.

  • Please dress appropriately when visiting temples and pagodas—shoulders and knees should be covered.

  • Bring small cash (VND) for local purchases, snacks, or souvenirs at markets.

  • Protect your phones, cameras, and valuable items during boat rides or in rainy weather.

 


Children Policy

  • The rate for children applicable for one child sharing a twin or double cabin with two adults.
  • For infants (<04 years old): FOC except for domestic flight tickets.
  • 04 – under 11 years old without bed: 50% adult rate.
  • 04 – under 11 years old with extra bed: 75% adult rate.
  • 04 – under 11 years old in twin share: 90% adult rate.
  • From 11 years old: count as an adult.

 


Cancellation Policy

  • Cancellation received before 60 days: FREE of charge
  • Cancellation received from 30 days to 59 days prior arrival date: 10% of total rate
  • Cancellation received from 15 days to 29 days prior arrival date: 30% of total rate
  • Cancellation received from 7 days to 14 days prior arrival date: 50% of total rate
  • Cancellation received less than 7 days prior arrival date or No show: 100% of total rate

 


GENERAL NOTES

I) Flight Ticket

Please Note: Our tour prices do not include any flight tickets. However, we’re here to support you every step of the way to ensure a smooth travel experience.

International Flights

Not Included: International airfares are not part of the tour price and can be booked independently.
Need Help? If you’re unfamiliar with the booking process or need assistance finding good fares or convenient schedules, our team in India can support you. We’ll help search, book, and manage your flights, including handling any issues that may arise.

Domestic Flights in Vietnam

Not Included: Domestic flights are also excluded from the tour price.
Prefer Convenience? We can arrange domestic flights for you with competitive fares, seat or meal requests, and quick support for any airline-related concerns. Let us handle the details so you can relax and enjoy your trip.

Simply send us your preferred travel date and time, and we will check the best available options for you.

II) Vietnam Visa notes

At Chapi, we offer a hassle-free visa application service to make your trip planning smooth and straightforward. Below are your options under the most recent Vietnam visa policy:

E-Visa (For Most Nationalities)

Since August 2023, visitors from all countries can apply for the official online E-Visa — valid up to 90 days, single or multiple entries.

Why choose E-Visa? It’s fast and fully digital — just apply at the government portal (https://evisa.gov.vn), then present your digital visa document and valid passport upon arrival.

Let us help: We can handle the application for you, making sure everything is correct and submitted smoothly.

Visa-Free Entry (For Some Nationalities)

As of 2025, nationals from certain European and South East Asian countries are granted visa-free entry for stays up to 45 days (tourism), under the government’s new visa-exemption programmes.

If this applies to you: No visa needed — simply meet passport validity and entry requirements.

We can help confirm whether your nationality is on the exemption list.

Urgent Visa Services

If you need your visa quickly (e.g. last-minute trips or your evisa is not ready before your flight), we offer expedited services — for E-Visa or an approval letter off visa on arrival. We can fast track it, so you’re ready in time. This can even be done within an hour.

Important Reminders:

Make sure your passport is valid for at least 6 months from the date you enter Vietnam.

Need help figuring out which visa option suits you best? Just contact us — we’re happy to advise based on your travel dates, nationality, and preferences.

III) Food & dinning

Great food is an essential part of discovering Vietnam, and we take it seriously. Every meal on our tours is thoughtfully planned to ensure safety, quality, and unforgettable flavors.

Local Meals Included: Enjoy delicious Vietnamese dishes prepared with fresh ingredients. Vegetarian and non-vegetarian options are always available.

Carefully Selected Restaurants: We partner only with reputable, clean, and trusted eateries—so you can relax and enjoy authentic Vietnamese and international cuisine with confidence. On our food tours, every tasting stop is hand-picked for both hygiene and genuine local flavor.

Dietary Preferences Welcome: Whether you prefer vegetarian, Jain, or have specific dietary needs, simply let us know in advance. We will do our best to accommodate your requirements and make every meal enjoyable.

IV) Accommodation

Your comfort matters to us, and so does supporting sustainable tourism. That’s why we handpick locally owned hotels that meet international standards—offering warm hospitality, thoughtful service, and a genuine connection to Vietnam.

Comfortable & Well-Located Stays
Enjoy clean, cozy rooms with windows overlooking city scenery or peaceful surroundings. All accommodations are centrally located, giving you easy access to restaurants, shops, and top attractions. A daily breakfast with both local and international choices is always included to start your day right.

Flexible Choices for Every Traveller
Prefer something more luxurious? You’re welcome to upgrade to premium or boutique properties. If you have a hotel you love, simply share your preference and we’ll arrange it whenever possible.
Celebrating a special moment? Complimentary room decorations for honeymoons, birthdays, or anniversaries can be arranged with pleasure.
Traveling with family? We can organise connecting rooms or extra beds to suit your group’s needs.

Thoughtful Travel Assurance
If a listed hotel happens to be unavailable on your travel dates, we’ll secure a similar—or even higher—standard property at no extra cost. Our goal is to ensure your stay is comfortable, memorable, and perfectly matched to your travel style.

Frequently Asked Questions
  • Absolutely! At Chapi Tours, we specialize in creating tailor-made itineraries designed around your interests, travel style, and budget. Whether you want to adjust an existing tour or build your own journey from scratch, our experienced travel experts will work closely with you to craft the perfect itinerary — flexible, authentic, and made just for you.

  • Booking with Chapi Tours is simple and hassle-free. You can start by browsing our tours and services, then contact our travel experts via email, phone, or our inquiry form with your travel dates and preferences. We’ll help you design or confirm the perfect itinerary, provide a clear quotation, and guide you through easy and secure payment options. Once your booking is confirmed, our team will stay in touch to make sure everything runs smoothly — from the moment you arrive in Vietnam until the end of your journey.

  • If you’re looking for friendly, passionate, and knowledgeable local guides — look no further. At Chapi Tours, our tour leaders are more than guides; they’re storytellers, cultural ambassadors, and your trusted companions throughout the journey. Each of them is dedicated to showing you the very best of Vietnam — helping you navigate with ease, sharing local customs and traditions, revealing hidden gems, and bringing history to life in ways you won’t find in any guidebook. With genuine care and deep local insight, our guides embody the true spirit of Vietnam — warm, welcoming, and full of heart.

  • At Chapi Tours, every journey is crafted with heart, care, and genuine local expertise — supported by up-to-date and reliable services. We design authentic experiences that bring you closer to Vietnam’s culture, nature, and people — whether you’re traveling as a family, a couple, a large group, or an adventurous explorer. Our tours combine comfort and discovery, taking you from Vietnam’s iconic highlights to its hidden gems, so you can enjoy the very best of the country without the stress of planning. With friendly local guides, personalized service, and a strong commitment to responsible travel, Chapi Tours turns every trip into a meaningful and memorable adventure — for travelers and local communities alike.

  • There are countless reasons why traveling with Chapi Tours is unlike any other experience in Vietnam. It starts with the places you’ll go — a perfect blend of iconic landmarks and hidden gems far beyond the tourist trail. From the lantern-lit streets of Hoi An to the breathtaking peaks of Ha Giang, every destination is chosen with care and local insight. Then come the experiences — unforgettable moments that connect you with real people and authentic culture. Stay with a welcoming host family in Ta Phin Village, share home-cooked meals, or ride through the majestic Ha Giang Loop with our experienced easy riders. You might even find yourself exploring a countryside market, cycling through peaceful villages, and enjoying a special vegetarian lunch at a tranquil pagoda. And of course, it’s the people who make it all special — our passionate local guides, warm-hearted hosts, and curious travelers like you who bring every journey to life. Join Chapi Tours and discover what makes our adventures truly unforgettable — authentic travel, made personal.

  • The best time to visit Vietnam depends on the regions you plan to explore and the experiences you’re looking for. Northern Vietnam (Hanoi, Ha Long Bay, Sapa): The ideal months are September to November and March to May, when the weather is pleasantly cool and skies are clear — perfect for sightseeing and outdoor adventures. Central Vietnam (Hue, Da Nang, Hoi An): The best time to visit is February to August, with warm, sunny days ideal for beach trips and cultural exploration. Southern Vietnam (Ho Chi Minh City, Mekong Delta, Phu Quoc): The most comfortable period is December to April, during the dry season with plenty of sunshine. Thanks to its varied climate, Vietnam is a year-round destination — no matter when you come, there’s always a beautiful place waiting to be explored.

  • Booking with a trusted local travel agency like Chapi Tours means seeing Vietnam through the eyes of those who know it best. Unlike large online platforms or unreliable operators, we provide personalized, reliable, and up-to-date service — crafted by locals who live here, love their country, and understand every detail of traveling across Vietnam. Here’s why travelers choose Chapi Tours: We stay up to date with the latest destination activities, promotions, and availability. We offer free travel consultation and trip planning to help you design your perfect journey. No hidden costs — what you see is exactly what you get (unlike many online platforms). With over 10 years of experience working closely with trusted local partners, we know the best guides, services, and experiences in every destination. We’re flexible with booking terms and conditions to fit your travel needs. Our team is available 24/7, always ready with contingency plans for any travel situation. With our tailor-made tours, you can customize your trip based on your interests, schedule, and budget. When you travel with Chapi Tours, you’re not just booking a trip — you’re supporting local communities, traveling responsibly, and gaining access to the hidden gems and authentic experiences only true locals can offer.

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