Full-Day Hop On Hop Off Bus Tour in Hanoi

Explore Hanoi at Your Own Pace with the Hop On Hop Off Bus Tour

For travelers keen to see Hanoi’s highlights without the hassle of public transportation or strict schedules, the Full-Day Hop On Hop Off Bus Tour offers an accessible and flexible way to explore the city. Priced at $20.00 per person and offering a 24-hour valid ticket, this tour allows you to hop off and back on at 14 carefully selected stops around Hanoi. The tour is ideal for those new to the city or visitors with limited time, providing the convenience of air-conditioned transport, WiFi onboard, and bottled water.

While some reviews point out logistical hiccups—such as difficulty locating pick-up points—most appreciate the informative audio guides and comfortable buses. This tour suits travelers who value independent exploration combined with the comfort of guided insights, making it an excellent choice for anyone wanting to experience Hanoi in a single day.

Key Points

• Affordable price at $20.00 per person with a 24-hour ticket
• 14 stops around Hanoi, covering major landmarks and cultural sites
• Audio guides available in multiple languages including English, French, German, and more
• Flexible schedule to hop on and off at your convenience
• Comfortable, air-conditioned buses with WiFi and refreshments
• Some reviews mention difficulties with stop locations and delays, so flexibility is key

Starting Point at Dong King Nghia Thuc Square

The tour departs from the Meeting point and Ticket Box located at Dong King Nghia Thuc Square, No 7 Dinh Tien Hoang. This central location makes it easy to locate and access, especially if you’re staying nearby or using public transportation. The initial boarding involves a conical hat and raincoat—useful touches for the weather and cultural flair.

Visiting St. Joseph Cathedral: Hanoi’s Oldest Church

The St. Joseph’s Cathedral, built in 1884, is a highlight of the tour. Its architecture resembles Notre Dame de Paris, and it has been an important religious site since the French colonial period. Since there’s no entrance fee, visitors can admire its Gothic design and historical significance without extra cost. The church’s prominence makes it a popular photo stop and a window into Hanoi’s colonial past.

The Vietnam Military History Museum and Flag Tower

Next, the Vietnam Military History Museum features the Flag Tower of Hanoi, a rare structure that survived the French period. Built in 1894-1897, the tower is nearly 200 years old and symbolizes Hanoi’s resilience. The museum showcases Vietnam’s military history, making it informative for history buffs. The Flag Tower remains a visual icon in Hanoi’s skyline.

Ho Chi Minh’s Mausoleum and Its Cultural Significance

A visit to the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum offers a chance to see the resting place of Vietnam’s revolutionary leader. Located centrally in Ba Dinh Square, the mausoleum is where Ho Chi Minh declared independence in 1945. While tours are brief and structured, the large building and the square’s atmosphere leave a lasting impression of Vietnam’s history. Note that visiting requires adherence to respect customs and timing.

The One Pillar Pagoda: Iconic and Unique

The One Pillar Pagoda, built in 1049 and perfected in 1105, is recognized for its distinct structure—a building supported on a single stone pillar. It’s regarded as one of Vietnam’s most iconic temples and offers a peaceful stop. Since there’s no entrance fee, visitors can quietly enjoy its architectural charm and symbolic design.

Tran Quoc Pagoda: Over 1,500 Years of History

The Tran Quoc Pagoda is Hanoi’s oldest pagoda, originally constructed during the reign of Emperor Ly Nam De in the 6th century. Its age of over 1,500 years makes it a significant spiritual site. The pagoda’s lakeside setting and historic architecture provide a serene experience, blending religious heritage with scenic views.

Cua Bac Parish Church: A French Colonial Landmark

Built in 1932 by the French, the Cua Bac Church is one of Hanoi’s major Catholic churches. Its French Gothic style and historical importance make it a must-see for architecture enthusiasts. Located conveniently on the route, it offers insight into Hanoi’s diverse religious landscape.

Quan Thanh Temple: An Ancient Taoist Shrine

Established during Emperor Ly Thái To’s reign (1010-1028), the Quan Thanh Temple is dedicated to Tran Vu, the Deity of the North. Its animal symbols—a serpent and a turtle—are key to its Taoist significance. As one of the Four Sacred Temples, it was built to protect the city from evil spirits, giving visitors a glimpse into Hanoi’s ancient spiritual practices.

The Imperial Citadel of Thang Long

Constructed in the 11th century by the Ly Viet Dynasty, the Imperial Citadel marks Hanoi’s historical independence. It was built on the ruins of a 7th-century Chinese fortress and features reclaimed land from the Red River Delta. The site offers an impressive view of Hanoi’s royal history and ancient architecture.

The Temple of Literature: Vietnam’s First University

Founded in 1070 during Emperor Ly Thanh Tong’s reign, the Temple of Literature is dedicated to Confucius. It also housed Vietnam’s first national university, the Imperial Academy. The complex is rich with pavilion-lined courtyards and steles of scholars, making it a highlight for those interested in education and culture.

Hoa Lo Prison: From Colonial to War Museum

Originally built by the French in the early 20th century, Hoa Lo Prison later became infamous as the Hanoi Hilton during the Vietnam War. Today, the gated remains serve as a museum, illustrating Vietnam’s turbulent history. Its central location makes it a notable stop that combines history with reflection.

The Vietnamese Women’s Museum and Cultural Insight

The Vietnamese Women’s Museum opened in 1995 and houses over 40,000 artifacts portraying the history, roles, and achievements of women in Vietnam. It also hosts special thematic exhibits, offering context on social change and women’s development—a meaningful stop for those interested in social history and gender studies.

Hanoi Opera House: An Architectural Landmark

Built between 1901 and 1911 by the French, the Hanoi Opera House is a neoclassical building and an important cultural venue. Its location in central Hanoi and historical architecture make it a scenic photo stop and a symbol of Hanoi’s colonial past.

The Historic Hanoi Post Office

The Hanoi Post Office, designed by Henri Vildieu, was completed in 1899 and remains a neoclassical icon of the city. Known locally as the “Post Office by the Lake,” it offers a glimpse into colonial-era architecture and remains a functioning postal service, blending history with modernity.

Practical Aspects: What’s Included and What’s Not

Included in the tour package are air-conditioned transport, WiFi, insurance, city map, bottled water, conical hat, and a raincoat—all designed to enhance comfort and convenience. However, food and drinks, gratuities, and entry fees for specific sites like Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, Temple of Literature, and Hoa Lo Prison cost extra, ranging from 25,000 VND to 40,000 VND.

The Experience’s Strengths and Limitations

Most praise the comfortable buses and informative audio guides in multiple languages, making Hanoi accessible to international visitors. The flexibility of the hop-on-hop-off format allows visitors to tailor their day, spending more time at favored sites.

However, some reviews mention difficulties locating pick-up stops and delays due to traffic, which can lead to frustration and missed stops. It’s advisable to plan extra time and be prepared for possible route adjustments.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour Most

This tour is perfect for first-time visitors to Hanoi who want a broad overview of the city’s key sites within a limited timeframe. It also benefits independent travelers who prefer self-paced exploration with guided commentary, all while remaining flexible to their own interests.

Final Thoughts on the Hanoi Hop On Hop Off Tour

The Full-Day Hanoi City Tour offers a cost-effective, convenient way to see Hanoi’s most iconic landmarks in one day. The 14 stops cover everything from historic temples to cultural museums, providing a well-rounded experience. The audio guidance and comfortable transport are significant advantages, especially for those unfamiliar with the city.

While logistical issues may arise, most find the value for money and variety of sights worthwhile. This tour suits curious explorers eager to combine self-guided flexibility with organized comfort, making it a practical choice for short-stay visitors or family groups seeking a memorable Hanoi experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the ticket valid for 24 hours?
Yes, the ticket is valid for 24 hours, allowing you to hop on and off at any of the 14 stops during that period.

Are all stops included in the ticket?
Yes, the 14 stops are covered within the ticket price, but some site entries, such as the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and Temple of Literature, require additional fees.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Most likely yes, as the tour involves bus travel and walking at stops. However, visitors should be prepared for walking around sites and traffic conditions.

What’s the start point for the tour?
The tour begins at Dong King Nghia Thuc Square, No 7 Dinh Tien Hoang, which is centrally located in Hanoi.

Can I buy the ticket on the day?
While availability isn’t explicitly mentioned, most bookings are made 53 days in advance on average. It’s recommended to book ahead, especially during peak times.

Are there audio guides in different languages?
Yes, the audio guide is available in multiple languages, including English, French, German, Spanish, Russian, Japanese, Korean, and Vietnamese.

What should I prepare for the stops?
Bring comfortable shoes, cash for entry fees, and your own reusable water bottle—the tour supplies paper cups to reduce plastic waste.

Can I include entry to specific sites?
Yes, but be aware that additional entry fees apply for sites like Hoa Lo Prison, Temple of Literature, and Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum.

This full-day hop-on hop-off tour provides a practical, flexible way to experience Hanoi’s vibrant culture and historic landmarks, making it a valuable addition to any itinerary.