Top 10 Travel Tips for Visiting Hanoi Like a Local

Hanoi can be overwhelming for first-time visitors, but with the right tips, you can enjoy the city like a local. Here are 10 travel tips to help you experience Hanoi’s culture, food, and lifestyle authentically. 1. Wake Up Early Locals start their day at dawn with exercise around lakes and parks—join them for a refreshing experience. 2. Try Street Food Safely Eat where locals eat, look for busy stalls, and avoid raw vegetables if you have a sensitive stomach. 3. Learn Basic Vietnamese Phrases Simple words like “Xin chào” (Hello) and “Cảm ơn” (Thank you) go a long way in connecting with locals. 4. Use Ride-Hailing Apps Apps like Grab or Be are safer and cheaper than negotiating with traditional taxis. 5. Cross the Street with Confidence Walk slowly and steadily—drivers will adjust to your pace. Avoid sudden movements. 6. Dress Respectfully at Temples Cover shoulders and knees when visiting pagodas or religious sites. 7. Bargain Politely Haggling is expected in markets, but do it with a smile and respect. 8. Carry Cash Many local shops and street vendors don’t accept cards, so small denominations are handy. 9. Be Aware of Traffic Motorbikes dominate Hanoi. Always check both ways before crossing streets. 10. Stay Hydrated Bring bottled water, especially when walking in the Old Quarter during hot days. ???? Book Your Stay at Ping Hanoi Hotel Phone: (84.4) 3 7858408 / (84.4) 3 7858409 Hotline: 0904.77.14.26 Email: sales@pinghotel.vn ???? Share This Article Facebook | X | YouTube { "@context": "https://schema.org", "@type": "FAQPage", "mainEntity": [ { "@type": "Question", "name": "What should I know before visiting Hanoi?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Wake up early, try street food, use Grab, bargain politely, and dress respectfully at temples." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "How do I cross the street in Hanoi?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Walk slowly and confidently—drivers will flow around you. Avoid running or stopping suddenly." } } ] }