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Hanoi free local tours

Hanoi free local tours: The BEST choices for authentic adventures

22/11/2025 1.471 views
5/5 - (1 vote)

One way to fully immerse in all that Vietnam’s capital city has to offer is by embarking on Hanoi free local tours. Learn everything about them in this guide here.
Hanoi free local tours

There are many Hanoi tours that are free of charge (Source: Collected)

Hanoi free local tours offer an authentic and immersive Vietnam travel experience. There are many different ones available, so you can choose one that suits your preferences. In this guide, we will walk you through all of them. Learn about what they include and what to expect when picking the perfect ones for your Hanoi itinerary.

1. Who is in charge of Hanoi free local tours?

Hanoi free local tours are hosted by a number of student-led non-profit organizations in Vietnam’s capital. Examples include Hanoikids, Hanoi Free Tour Guides, and Hanoi Free Private Tour Guides. 

But in this guide, we will focus on tours offered by, you guessed it, Hanoi Free Local Tours. The organization is based at No. ​68 Tam Khuong Street, Kim Lien Ward, Hanoi​. You can reach them through:

  • Hotline: (+84) 0164 613 8417 
  • Email: [email protected] 
  • Website: hanoifreelocaltours.com

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2. What to expect on Hanoi free local tours?

2.1. Visit the most famous landmarks in Hanoi

  • Hanoi Old Quarter: This is a historic district in the heart of Hanoi. It is known for its narrow streets, ancient architecture, and bustling markets. The area is a vibrant place to explore, with numerous shops, street food stalls, etc.
  • Hoan Kiem Lake: Hoan Kiem Lake is a picturesque freshwater lake located in the historic center of Hanoi. It is a popular spot for both locals and tourists. The lake’s centerpiece is the Turtle Tower, which stands on a small island in the lake.
  • Ngoc Son Temple: This is a temple dedicated to General Tran Hung Dao and Van Xuong De Quan. For both locals and visitors, it is also a place of worship and tranquility. 
  • The Huc Bridge: Also known as the “Red Bridge,” the Huc Bridge is a beautifully designed architectural work that leads to Ngoc Son Temple. It is one of the most iconic attractions in Hanoi. 
  • Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum: This museum is where locals and visitors can learn about President Ho Chi Minh and delve deep into the country’s history. 
  • Temple of Literature: The Temple of Literature was originally built as a university in 1070 and is one of the oldest educational institutions in Vietnam. In Vietnamese, it is called Van Mieu-Quoc Tu Giam. 
  • St. Joseph’s Cathedral: St. Joseph’s Cathedral is a prominent religious and architectural landmark. It looks a lot like the Notre-Dame Cathedral in Paris. Visitors coming here can admire its impressive facade.
  • Hanoi Opera House: The Hanoi Opera House is an architectural gem built during the French colonial period. Now, it is a venue for various cultural performances, including opera, classical music, and ballet. 
  • Hoa Lo Prison: Also referred to as the “Hanoi Hilton,” Hoa Lo Prison is a historical site that once served as a French colonial prison and later as a place of detention for American prisoners of war during the Vietnam War. 
  • B52 Victory Museum Hanoi: Showcasing the wreckages of B-52 bombers, this museum is dedicated to the history of the Vietnamese people’s resistance during the Vietnam War.
You can explore many attractions during Hanoi free local tours

You can explore many attractions during Hanoi free local tours (Source: Collected)

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2.2. Enjoy the best foods in Hanoi cuisine

Besides popular attractions, the local guides of Hanoi free local tours will take you to explore the city’s culinary scene. Some of the best options that you should not miss out on are: 

  • Pho Hanoi: Pho is perhaps the most famous Vietnamese dish. It typically consists of a flavorful beef or chicken broth, rice noodles, and thinly sliced beef or chicken. It is garnished with fresh herbs, bean sprouts, lime, and chili.
  • La Vong fish cake: Known as “cha ca La Vong” in Vietnamese, this fish is a Hanoi specialty. The highlight of the dish is the grilled fish, which is infused with a turmeric and galangal marinade and served with herbs and rice noodles.  
  • Bun cha Hanoi: This is a Vietnamese dish consisting of grilled pork patties served over vermicelli noodles. It is generally accompanied by a bowl of fish sauce-based dipping sauce with pickled vegetables and herbs on the side. 
  • West Lake shrimp cake: Also referred to as “banh tom Ho Tay,” this dish gets its name from Hanoi’s West Lake (Ho Tay) because it is commonly found there. It features shrimp encased in a crispy, deep-fried batter. 
  • Bun dau mam tom: This is a unique Hanoi dish with vermicelli noodles, fried tofu, boiled pork, shrimp paste sauce, and various herbs and vegetables. The shrimp paste sauce has a pungent flavor, making it quite interesting to try.
Enjoy Hanoi delicacies while going on Hanoi free local tours

Enjoy Hanoi delicacies while going on Hanoi free local tours (Source: Collected)

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3. Detailed information about popular Hanoi free local tours

3.1. Hanoi Old Quarter tour

If you find yourself in Hanoi’s Old Quarter and you are looking to explore the vibrant streets without spending a dime, then the free walking tour is an absolute must! 

The Hanoi free walking tour in the Old Quarter is one of the best options for tourists looking to immerse themselves in the city’s culture.

The tour’s duration is 3 hours and includes a range of popular attractions, such as Hoan Kiem Lake, Ngoc Son Temple, The Huc Bridge, Dong Xuan Market, etc. 

On this walking tour of Hanoi Old Quarter, you also have the option to visit the Thang Long Water Puppet Theater and take a cyclo ride around the area. You will see Hanoian tubular houses, street vendors, and more to get a glimpse into the local lifestyle. 

Something else you should not miss on this Hanoi tour guide is savoring the famous Trang Tien Ice Cream and sipping on some egg coffee. 

Try egg coffee while you tour Hanoi local Old Quarter

Try egg coffee while you tour Hanoi local Old Quarter (Source: Collected)

3.2. Hanoi French Quarter tour

The Hanoi free French Quarter tour is another option that offers tourists an incredible opportunity to delve into the rich history and charm of this iconic area. 

Led by knowledgeable local guides, this 3-hour tour takes you on a leisurely stroll through the winding streets of the French Quarter, also known as Hoan Kiem District. 

You will get a chance to explore landmarks such as the Hanoi Opera House, St. Joseph’s Cathedral, and Hoa Lo Prison. Additionally, you can immerse yourself in the city’s cafe culture at street-side stalls and indulge in delectable delicacies. 

3.3. Museum of Ethnology Hanoi half-day tour

This is one of the best Hanoi free local tours for history buffs and cultural enthusiasts. In 3 hours, it takes tourists through everything there is to know about the country’s 54 ethnic groups. 

You will be accompanied by a local buddy as you observe and learn from more than 15,000 artifacts, 40,000 photographs, and countless audio-visual tapes.

In addition, you can visit the Thuy Dinh House within the museum for water puppet shows and the Kite Building for shadow puppet and string puppet performances. These are great ways for you to explore Vietnam’s arts.

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On your free Hanoi tour, learn about Vietnam's diverse ethnic groups

On your free Hanoi tour, learn about Vietnam’s diverse ethnic groups (Source: Collected)

3.4. Hanoi war site tour

For those interested in wartime artifacts, this is the ideal Hanoi local tour. It is about 3 to 3.5 hours and includes six notable destinations: Hoa Lo Prison, Military History Museum, Ho Chi Minh Museum, Vietnam People’s Air Force Museum, Hanoi B-52 Victory Museum, and Long Bien Bridge. 

As you go through these places with experienced local guides, you will gain deep insights into the Vietnam War and its consequences. In addition, you will learn a lot about the country’s history, people, and more. 

3.5. Hanoi night walking tour

Hanoi free local tours are not limited to daytime. There is also a fantastic option after dark – a Hanoi night walking tour, which lasts roughly 3 to 3.5 hours and is great for those who want to experience the bustling city at night. 

Tourists will start at Summit Lounge, which is one of the highest rooftop bars in Hanoi. After enjoying a cup of cocktail and soaking in the panoramic views, you will have the chance to stroll through Hang Bac Street, renowned for its silver jewelry, and Hang Dao Street, deemed a silk heaven. 

You can also visit the Old Bomb Bunker at Hanoi Metropole Hotel for a one-of-a-kind exploration. The tour wraps up with Banh Mi King, where you can try Bami Bread, known for its unique sauce handed down from generation to generation. 

Explore Hanoi local life after the sun sets too

Explore Hanoi local life after the sun sets too (Source: Collected)

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3.6. Hanoi Museum walking tour

If you are a fan of museums, there is no better Hanoi local tour than this one. Unlike other Hanoi free local tours, the Hanoi Museum walking tour can last up to 4 hours. 

On this tour, you will be able to explore five museums: 

  • Vietnam National Museum of History: Built between 1925 and 1932, this museum houses over 7,000 objects that showcase Vietnam’s cultural diversity. Exhibit highlights include bronzes from the Dong Son culture, Hindu statuary, imperial Vietnam jewelry, and more. 
  • Vietnamese Women’s Museum: There are up to 25,000 objects in this museum, illustrating the lives and roles of Vietnamese women in society. The displays are organized by themes: Women in Family, Women in History, and Women’s Fashion. 
  • Fine Arts Museum Hanoi: This museum was built by the Vietnamese government to preserve and present the country’s artistic treasures. There are paintings, sculptures, ceramics, and lacquers displayed here. 
  • Vietnam Museum of Ethnology: Visitors can learn about the country’s 54 ethnic minorities through the museum’s documents, antiques, and photos. There is also an outdoor area exhibiting the houses and tombs of some Vietnamese minorities. 
  • Hoa Lo Prison Museum: Also known as “Hell on Earth,” this was a site for war prisoners during the Vietnam War. Visitors can explore the terrifying French guillotine used to behead Vietnamese revolutionaries here.
Explore Hanoi's popular museums to complete your travel Hanoi Vietnam experience

Explore Hanoi’s popular museums to complete your travel Hanoi Vietnam experience (Source: Collected)

3.7. Free Bat Trang Village Tour

If you are a fan of beautiful pottery and want to immerse yourself in the local craft culture, then the Bat Trang Ceramic Village Tour is an absolute must-do. 

This is one of the longest Hanoi free local tours (5 hours) and happens further from the city’s center. The itinerary includes Bat Trang Ancient Pottery Village, Lo Bau – the only kiln left in Bat Trang Village, Pottery Market, and Bat Trang Old Village. 

As you stroll through the narrow alleys lined with quaint ceramic shops and studios, you will get a firsthand glimpse into the intricate process of traditional ceramic making. From clay kneading to molding and glazing, you will witness artisans transform lumps into pieces of art. 

Do not hesitate to try your hand at creating your own masterpiece during interactive workshops. The tour also offers the opportunity to purchase unique pottery at reasonable prices, making it an ideal place to find souvenirs or gifts that truly reflect Vietnamese craftsmanship.

Bat Trang Pottery Village: A traditional imprint in the heart of Hanoi

Admire pottery items on the Hanoi free walking tour to Bat Trang Village

Admire pottery items on the Hanoi free walking tour to Bat Trang Village (Source: Collected)

Besides the Hanoi free local tours above, you can visit VinKE & Vinpearl Aquarium and VinWonders Wave Park & Water Park. These are two fantastic attractions located in Vincom Mega Mall Times City. At the former, you can engage in educational activities, and at the latter, you can admire many different sea cultures. 

VinKE Times City

Vinpearl Aquarium

VinWonders Wave Park & Water Park

Visit VinKE & Vinpearl Aquarium and VinWonders Wave Park & Water Park to create cherished memories

Aside from Hanoi, Phu Quoc, Nha Trang, and Hoi An are excellent destinations in Vietnam to explore. Phu Quoc boasts pristine beaches and a laid-back atmosphere, perfect for relaxation and water sports, while the vibrant coastal city of Nha Trang offers an experience with a range of cultural and recreational activities. Visitors to Hoi An, a charming ancient town, will surely be captivated by its rich history.

At these places, you can also visit the entertainment paradise VinWonders. There are a variety of rides, games, shows, workshops, and food stalls that you can enjoy. It is a fantastic destination for both thrill-seekers and families looking for a day of fun and excitement.

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Hanoi free local tours can take you to both popular attractions and off-the-beaten-path spots that showcase the city’s charm. Depending on the tour you choose, you can gain insights into Hanoi’s culture and history and witness the daily life of locals up close. You will also have the opportunity to befriend local guides and buddies, who will be more than happy to share their experiences with you. After the Hanoi free local tours, you can visit VinKE & Vinpearl Aquarium and VinWonders Wave Park & Water Park.

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