Hanoi is a city that truly rewards those who enjoy exploring local markets and indulging in authentic Vietnamese cuisine. Its bustling streets overflow with colorful stalls selling everything from fragrant spices to fresh produce, making it an ideal backdrop for shopping and market tours. Whether you’re a dedicated foodie or just curious to see Hanoi’s daily life in action, these experiences offer a genuine taste of local culture. We especially love the small-group cooking classes with market visits, like the Vietnamese Food Cooking Class in Hanoi with Market Experience, which combines culinary learning with vibrant market scenes. These tours are perfect for travelers wanting hands-on experiences, delicious food, and insights into Vietnam’s rich flavors.
Quick Overview
This list features a variety of market and cooking tours designed to give you a well-rounded taste of Hanoi’s food scene. Options include small-group classes that focus on making traditional dishes like pho and spring rolls, private sessions in elegant villas or local houses, and market tours that explore Hanoi’s lively streets with expert guides. Prices range from budget-friendly classes at around $34, such as Maya Kitchen, to premium private experiences costing over $147, like the Private Cooking Class in Local Villa. No matter your budget or schedule, there’s something here that will deepen your appreciation for Hanoi’s culinary traditions.
1. Vietnamese Food Cooking Class in Hanoi with Market Experience
Starting with a visit to Hanoi’s largest market, this class takes you into the heart of local life. You’ll sample street dishes, buy fresh ingredients, and watch vendors in action before returning to the cooking station. The class focuses on preparing three authentic Vietnamese dishes, which you’ll savor with tea or coffee afterward. With a max group size of 14, it’s a personal experience that balances fun with learning. Daisy, the guide, is praised for her translation skills and her lively market tour, making it accessible for non-Vietnamese speakers. Guests love how delicious the food turns out and the photo memories they take home. This tour provides excellent value, especially if you’re keen to learn Vietnamese cooking from scratch.
Bottom Line: A well-rounded, hands-on class blending market exploration and food mastery, ideal for travelers who want a big impact in a short time.
2. Hanoi: 5 Local Dishes Cooking Class with Meal & Market Visit
For around $40, this 3.5-hour cooking class offers the chance to learn five traditional Hanoi dishes. It begins with a visit to a lively local market, where you’ll pick out fresh ingredients with your guide. Then, you’ll roll up your sleeves to cook a set menu, choosing from two options. The class emphasizes tips and tricks for authentic flavor, and you get to enjoy your culinary creations as a meal afterward. Reviewers highlight Winnie and Vy for their friendly guidance and the vegetarian options available, making it accessible for different dietary needs. Plus, you’ll receive a cookbook to help recreate the dishes at home.
Bottom Line: Perfect for food lovers wanting a comprehensive, interactive experience that combines market shopping and culinary skills.
3. Hanoi Cooking Class and Market Tour in Ancient House
This 4-hour experience centers on Vietnamese food culture, starting with a market visit to source fresh ingredients. The class takes place in a charming ancient house setting, where you’ll learn traditional recipes like pho, spring rolls, and Vietnamese wine pairing. Unlike quick classes, it offers a full culture, including tasting your dishes and sipping local wine. The guide, Mango, is appreciated for her knowledge and friendly approach, especially since many guests say it’s the best cooking class they’ve tried in Hanoi. The relaxed pace and intimate setting make it suitable for anyone eager to understand Vietnamese cuisine beyond the surface.
Bottom Line: An engaging, culture-rich class suited for travelers wanting both food and cultural insights in an authentic environment.
4. Hanoi Maya Kitchen: Traditional Cooking Class & Market Tour
At just $34, this hands-on class begins with a visit to Hanoi’s local market, where Aurora shares stories about Vietnamese ingredients. The class includes making four classic dishes like fried spring rolls and egg coffee. The warm atmosphere and organized setup make cooking fun and stress-free. Guests love Aurora’s engaging storytelling and the chance to try egg coffee, a Hanoi specialty. After the lesson, you sit down to enjoy the meal you prepared, often taking leftovers home. This tour is ideal for those wanting a light, flavorful introduction to Hanoi’s cuisine without breaking the bank.
Bottom Line: A budget-friendly, friendly class that’s perfect for first-timers wanting to taste Vietnamese staples.
5. Private Cooking Class in Local Villa with Market Tour
This premium experience, costing $147, offers personalized attention with a private chef and a luxury villa setting. The tour begins with a market visit where you select ingredients, then proceeds to the villa to cook green papaya salad, pho, and spring rolls. The class emphasizes customizing your menu and learning professional techniques. Guests rave about the warm hospitality of the chef and the relaxed, intimate environment. It’s perfect for couples, families, or small groups who want a bespoke culinary adventure. The inclusion of drinks and the flexibility to choose dishes make this a value-packed option for a special occasion.
Bottom Line: The most personalized, luxurious option for those seeking an exclusive, in-depth cooking experience.
6. Hanoi: Old Quarter Market Tour and Cooking Class with Meal
This 3.5-hour tour combines market shopping and hands-on cooking with a local chef. Starting in Hanoi’s Old Quarter, you’ll buy fresh ingredients and then prepare pho, bun cha, and spring rolls. After cooking, you get to enjoy your creations in a cozy setting, ending with a cup of egg or coconut coffee. Guests praise Daisy for her friendly manner and the quality of the local snack tasting at the market. The class suits those who want a comprehensive yet relaxed culinary day with a focus on authentic Vietnamese street food.
Bottom Line: A balanced experience for those wanting market insight, cooking skills, and a satisfying meal.
7. Local Market Tour and Private Cooking Class
This 5-hour private experience includes a cyclo ride through Hanoi and a customizable four-course meal. You’ll visit a local market, learn about produce and herbs, then cook in a private kitchen. The tour is flexible, making it great for small groups or couples. Guests appreciate the personalized approach and the local transportation aspect, which adds to the charm. It’s best suited for travelers wanting a private, leisurely day focusing on Vietnamese cuisine and local culture.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for those seeking privacy and a tailored experience with a mix of sightseeing and cooking.
8. Hanoi Cooking Class: Local Market Tour & Free Local Wine Tasting
At just over $36, this class offers a vegan-focused experience in a tranquil garden setting. It starts with a market visit, focusing on vegan and Buddhist influences, then moves to a garden villa where you prepare several vegan dishes. The experience includes unlimited drinks and a chance to learn about Buddhist principles. Reviewers like Ruby for her knowledge and the relaxed atmosphere. Ideal for vegans, vegetarians, or those curious about plant-based Vietnamese cuisine, this class balances culture, health, and cuisine.
Bottom Line: A perfect pick for health-conscious travelers interested in Vietnamese vegan dishes.
9. Cooking class with market visit
This 4-hour interactive class emphasizes cultural exchange and full participation. You’ll visit a local market, learn about Vietnamese ingredients and cooking techniques, then cook in a cozy home setting. Guests rave about the authenticity and the personalized guidance. It’s best for those wanting a deeper understanding of Vietnamese food traditions rather than just following recipes.
Bottom Line: A solid choice for travelers who want more than just cooking, including cultural insights.
10. Vegan Cooking Class in Local Villa with Market Visit – Free Pickup & DropOff
For about $45, this vegan class includes market shopping, cooking in a beautiful villa, and free pickup. You’ll make five vegan dishes with guidance from a local chef, then enjoy your meal in a relaxed setting. Guests praise the friendly chef Tung and the personalized attention, making it an ideal choice for those seeking vegan options in a private environment.
Bottom Line: A comprehensive, all-inclusive vegan experience perfect for plant-based food lovers.
11. Private cooking class and rural market visit with chef
This private 4-hour tour offers the chance to visit a rural market, then cook a four-course Vietnamese meal with a professional chef. The personalized attention and customizable menu suit travelers wanting a bespoke culinary experience. Guests mention the “tips and attention” from the chef as highlights. The tour is best for those who want to learn about local ingredients outside the city’s bustle.
Bottom Line: Ideal for culinary enthusiasts seeking an intimate, expert-led experience in rural settings.
12. Vegan Cooking Class and Market Tour with Chef Tien
This 3.5-hour vegan-focused class is praised for its interactive market tour, making five vegan dishes, and unlimited drinks. Tien’s approach is friendly and informative, making it suitable for vegans and health-conscious travelers. The focus on seasonings and marinades helps you master plant-based Vietnamese cuisine.
Bottom Line: A well-rounded vegan class that combines market insights with hands-on cooking.
13. Vietnamese Cooking Class in Indochine Villa with Market Tour
Set in a French-era villa, this class offers the chance to learn four dishes like spring rolls and bun cha. The small-group size of 10 ensures personal attention. The tour includes a market visit and options for lunch or dinner, with vegan and vegetarian options available. Guests appreciate the relaxed atmosphere and the quality of food.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers seeking a refined, intimate environment with authentic Vietnamese recipes.
14. 3 Dishes cooking + Egg Coffee bonus & Local Market Tour
This 3.5-hour class offers the chance to learn three dishes plus the famous egg coffee. It’s an approachable and affordable experience that emphasizes instruction and recipes, perfect for beginners eager to recreate Hanoi flavors at home.
Bottom Line: Great for quick learners and foodies looking for a fun, no-fuss cooking session.
15. Market Tour & Cooking class in Ha Noi City
Finally, this 3-hour local market and cooking class in Hanoi’s city center emphasizes local life and culinary skills. You’ll visit a vegetable village, learn about herbs and produce, then cook five dishes. It’s ideal for those wanting a comprehensive introduction to Vietnamese ingredients and cooking techniques.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for food explorers who want an authentic, immersive experience.
How to Choose the Right Hanoi Market & Shopping Tour
When selecting a tour, consider your budget, time availability, and interest level. For a budget-friendly, fun introduction to Hanoi’s cuisine, classes like Maya Kitchen or Egg Coffee & 3 Dishes are excellent. If you prefer private, tailored experiences, the Private Villa Cooking Class offers personalized attention. For vegetarian or vegan travelers, classes like the Vegan Villa Class or Vegan Market Tour provide plant-based options.
Booking early is advisable, especially during peak season (October to April), to secure your preferred date. Check availability for times that suit your schedule, and consider combining a market tour with a cooking class for full immersion.
Final Thoughts
Hanoi offers a rich array of food-focused tours, from budget-friendly classes to luxurious private experiences. If you’re new to Vietnamese cuisine, classes like Maya Kitchen provide excellent value, while seasoned foodies might prefer the personalized luxury of the Private Villa. With such a variety, you’re sure to find a tour that matches your interests and travel style.
We recommend booking well in advance—these experiences fill up quickly, especially during high season. Whichever option you choose, you’re sure to leave Hanoi with delicious new skills and unforgettable memories of its vibrant culinary scene.