Hanoi Hidden Charms - Walking tour

Is this your first time in Hanoi? This tour is the perfect way to get an overview of both Hanoi and Vietnam. Or have you visited Hanoi before? If you’ve already explored the city but want to discover its lesser-known sides, this tour is for you. We’ll take you to “speak-easy” style locations—hidden gems that are easy to miss without the guidance of curious locals who love uncovering the secrets of Hanoi. Some places are tucked right in the middle of busy tourist areas, while others are off the beaten path if you don’t mind venturing a little further.

Locals sometimes call Hanoi “the old lady,” because she carries thousands of years of stories within her. The longer she lives, the more tales she gathers, sparking endless curiosity. We won’t reveal all the names of the places beforehand—because surprises are part of the adventure. That thrill of discovery, the endorphin rush, and the sense of wonder are what make exploring hidden Hanoi so special. Sometimes you may even revisit a familiar spot, but hear stories you’ve never known before.

So, pack your curiosity and excitement, and let’s explore together. Travel TO BE ONE. (Travel2b1)

These details follow the Guruwalk guidelines, with a few extra tips to help you manage Vietnam’s currency (VND) so you don’t get confused by the many zeros and colors of the notes.

How much does the tour cost?

Free tours don’t have a fixed price. At the end, each participant contributes what they feel is fair based on their satisfaction. As a guideline, Guruwalk recommends between €15 and €50 per person.

Tips for VND Currency

VND Note Color Approx. EUR

10,000 Yellow €0.33

20,000 Blue €0.66

50,000 Pink €1.65

100,000 Green €3.29

200,000 Orange €6.58

500,000 Blue-Purple €16.46

Notes under 10,000 VND have very little value.

I live about 30–40 minutes away from the meeting point, and preparing for the tour usually takes me half a day or more. Guiding is one of my main jobs, alongside working as a business translator and with some tour agencies. That’s why I truly appreciate a tip of at least 200,000–300,000 VND/ person (around €6–€9). If you’re short on cash, don’t worry—just let me know. Any amount is appreciated, and my main hope is that you enjoy exploring the city through a local’s perspective. Cheers, and see you soon in Hanoi!