Got some free time on your travel itinerary? There are a plethora of guided tours to choose from, whether you have a night, a half-day, or a full week free to explore...

With the COVID-19 pandemic currently under control, tourism activities in and around the capital are ramping up, giving those visiting the city for the 31st SEA Games plenty to see and do. 

As the cultural heart of Vietnam, Hanoi has long offered visitors a range of tourism opportunities. Popular activities that were put on hold during the pandemic have resumed. Plus, a whole new range of travel products has been introduced, with a focus on culture, crafts, and unique experiences.

 

 

Here’s some of what the thousands of international athletes, officials, and sports fans can choose from during down-time before, after, or between the SEA Games 31 events. 

What’s new?

“Footprint in Bat Trang Ancient Village”: This tour, takes visitors to the ancient Bat Trang craft village. Here, they’ll get to see what goes into pottery-making and enjoy a lavish Vietnamese lunch at the Bat Trang communal house.

 

 

"Deciphering the Thang Long Imperial Citadel": This night tour is a must for those interested in ancient civilizations. Shimmering lights will reveal relics and remains of this ancient Imperial city, which dates back some 1,300 years.

 

 

“Bác Cổ − Bombax ceiba Flower Season”: Take a breather by admiring the kapok blossoms on the grounds of The National Museum of Vietnamese History. These flowers, which herald the start of summer in Hanoi, are also steeped in the fascinating folklore of North Vietnam.

 

 

"French Architecture in the Heart of Hanoi": A distinctive aspect of Hanoi is its architecture dating back to the French Indochina period. Learn more about it on this walking tour, newly launched by the Vietnam National Museum of History. The tour reveals fascinating details about key French architectural sites. You’ll get an audio guide via App, so you can take it at your own pace.

 

 

“Sacred Night Tours at the Hoa Lo Prison Relic": Prepare for a moving experience when you take one of the three-night tours of this historic prison. Titled “1st Sacred night: Shining Vietnamese Spirit”, “2nd Sacred night: Living like Flowers” and “3rd Sacred Night: Youthful Fire”, these tours are a testament to the resilience of Vietnamese revolutionaries throughout history.

 

 

In addition to these experiences, special events are being hosted to accelerate the post-pandemic recovery of the tourism sector. These include the Hanoi Tourism Festival (from 13-15 May) and the Hanoi Cuisine and Craft Village Tourism Festival (from 12-23 May 2022). 

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Short tours in the city

Short on time to explore Hanoi? No worries. There are many short guided tours you can take advantage of to learn more about this fascinating historic city. 

It starts with your hotel pick-up at 8 am, and ends on the same day at 4 pm. As you visit key sites via minivan and electric car, a guide will give you snapshots of Hanoi’s history. The places you visit depend on which day of the week you book for, but all tours include stops at the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, the Tran Quoc Buddhist pagoda, and the Ngoc Son Temple − the picturesque Temple of the Jade Mountain on the Jade Islet in Hoàn Kiếm Lake. A delicious Vietnamese lunch is included.

 

 

Something for everyone

Foodies will love the three-hour street-food experience and the cooking classes that teach you how to make local specialties. Cyclists wanting to head out of the city can cycle around the countryside on the outskirts of Hanoi. Artsy types will relish the chance to be spellbound by an authentic water-puppet show. Got a full day? Why not head out of the city to see some of the stunning scenery Vietnam is known for. Round trips to Ninh Binh or Halong Bay take 11 hours. 

 

 

Overnight tours from Hanoi

If you have a few days free on your travel itinerary, consider booking a combo tour that takes you from Hanoi to popular domestic destinations. 

In need of some sun, sea, and sand? Many travel agents offer short overnight trips to beachy destinations including Nha Trang, Qui Nhon, Phu Quoc Island, and Co To Island. 

If you have five to seven days free, consider heading north. A tip to either Sapa or Ha Giang will reward you with epic mountain scenery and the chance to learn more about Vietnam’s minority cultures.

 

 

For the peace of mind

Wondering where to start your Vietnam travel plan? 

Make sure to pay a visit to Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, Hoan Kiem Lake, and the ever-bustling Old Quarter when you’re in Hanoi.

 

 

Got a few more days to spare? Please your eyes with Phu Quoc’s breathtaking beach and sunset view, explore island hopping and experience the awesome underwater through sea walker.

Keen to learn more about Vietnam’s culture or indulge yourself with the famous bánh mi, bánh xèo, or rose dumplings street food? Da Nang is the perfect place for the My Son Sanctuary Tour & Cultural Ceremony

 

 

Get your trip in order and travel to see the beauty of Vietnam, follow the amazing 31st SEA games, and tour the stunning cities that Vietnam has to offer. Enjoy your travel with maximum comfort through new digital features (Hotel Voucher, Free Reschedule Flight, Pay Upon Check-in, etc.) You can check out more information on travel apps, for example, the Traveloka app ...