Top 5 Must-do Activities During Autumn in Hanoi

Discover the enchanting essence of Hanoi this autumn, where every corner offers a sensory delight. One of the best things is to wander through traditional craft villages, where skilled artisans bring age-old techniques to life, and step back in time in the ancient Duong Lam village, where centuries-old homes whisper tales of history. Explore now!

Written by Linh Yang (Local expert)Updated on 30-09-2024

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Table of contents

1. Explore the Cultural and Historical Destinations in Hanoi
2. Hanoi Food Tour
3. Visit Van Phuc Silk Village
4. Discover Duong Lam Ancient Village
5. Explore Hanoi’s Traditional Craft Villages

1. Explore the Cultural and Historical Destinations in Hanoi

As autumn graces Hanoi with its cool breeze and vibrant colors, a visit to Hoan Kiem Lake is a must. Enjoy a peaceful stroll around the lake, snapping photos of the Turtle Tower, and treat yourself to some delicious Trang Tien ice cream, a local favorite that’s perfect for the season.

*The cool autumn weather in Hanoi is perfect for a stroll through Hoan Kiem Lake*

Wander into the Old Quarter, where the lively streets are filled with charming shops and tantalizing street food. The rich history and culture come alive as you savor delicious pho and banh mi while exploring narrow lanes lined with colonial architecture.

*The Old Quarter, a place where the lively streets are filled with charming shops*

Don’t miss the Temple of Literature, Vietnam’s first university, where you can immerse yourself in the serene gardens and admire the ancient architecture. Finally, make your way to the Imperial Citadel of Thang Long, a UNESCO site that showcases the city's fascinating past.

2. Hanoi Food Tour

Start your day at one of Hanoi's bustling local markets, Dong Xuan Market. The market offers many delicious dishes like banh tom (fried shrimp cake), chao suon (pork bone congee), nom (Vietnamese indigenous salad), banh ran man (salty glutinous rice doughnuts), pho, and bun cha (kebab rice noodles) at reasonable prices. With its always bustling atmosphere, Dong Xuan Market will provide tourists with an authentic shopping experience about Hanoi's culture.

Besides, the Old Quarter is an ideal area for culinary experiences. Travelers can also participate in cooking classes for egg coffee and traditional dishes like fried spring rolls.

After lunch, visitors can enjoy light snacks such as banh goi (pillow-shaped cake), banh khoai (sweet potato fritter), banh chuoi (banana cake), fried spring rolls, banh mi, banh bao (steamed buns), che (Vietnamese dessert), and fruit, as well as famous street snacks and iced tea.

👉 If you're don't know which Vietnamese desserts to try, here’s a must-try list just for you!

3. Visit Van Phuc Silk Village

When visiting Van Phuc Silk Village in Ha Dong district, travelers can enjoy a wide range of engaging activities. Begin by exploring the village’s vibrant shops, where you can purchase high-quality silk products, including Ao dai (traditional Vietnamese dresses) and silk scarves—perfect as souvenirs or gifts.

Take a visit to the silk workshops where you can talk with talented artisans who are passionate about their craft, sharing insights into the intricate process of silk weaving. Don't forget to buy some souvenirs, such as beautiful silk scarves and tapestries, perfect for capturing the essence of Vietnamese culture.

👉 Do not know what to Buy in Vietnam? Here are some must-buy traditional gifts for you!

4. Discover Duong Lam Ancient Village

After exploring the attractions and historical sites in central Hanoi, visitors can continue to Duong Lam Ancient Village, one of the popular tourist destinations in the outskirts. It reflects the essence of the Northern countryside with its centuries-old architecture, lush green rice fields, and time-honored traditions.

In the evening, tourists can watch The Quintessence of Tonkin. Set on a magnificent outdoor stage on a natural lake, this world-class cultural performance showcases the unique traditions, folklore, and history of northern Vietnam. With the backdrop of the serene Thay Mountain, the performance includes captivating water puppetry, traditional music, and reenactments of historical events, offering a deep dive into Vietnam’s spiritual and cultural identity.

5. Explore Hanoi’s Traditional Craft Villages

Ha Thai Lacquer Handicraft Village

Don’t miss the charming Ha Thai Village as you’ll be drawn into the world of lacquerware, where artisans expertly craft stunning pieces. Watching their meticulous layering and polishing techniques brings the artistry to life, allowing you to appreciate the cultural significance behind each creation.

👉 Love Vietnamese craftshipman? Discover more about Lacquer paintings in Vietnam here!

Chuong Conical Hat Village

Next, in Chuong Village, immerse yourself in the traditional craft of conical hat-making. Here, skilled artisans will guide you through the process, offering a hands-on experience that allows you to create your own hat—an authentic souvenir that embodies Vietnamese culture.

Quang Phu Cau Incense Village

As you continue to Quang Phu Cau Incense Village, prepare for a lively atmosphere filled with the sounds and scents of incense-making. The rhythmic bamboo splitting and fragrant aromas create a sensory delight. Be sure to snap some vibrant photos alongside the colorful bundles of incense, capturing the essence of this enchanting village.