Ha Long is famous for its stunning seascapes, but it’s also a fantastic place for food lovers eager to explore Vietnam’s rich culinary scene. While most visitors focus on the scenic limestone karsts, the city’s vibrant street food culture offers just as much excitement. Among the experiences we’ve highlighted, the Hanoi: Half‑Day Jeep City Tour, Landmarks & Local Food stands out for its fun mix of sightseeing and authentic bites — all from the back of a vintage army Jeep. It’s a playful way to combine iconic landmarks with real Hanoi flavors.
Another great option is the Hanoi: Walking Street Food & Train Street Culture Tour, which offers a more traditional stroll through Hanoi’s bustling alleyways and the unforgettable experience of watching a train pass just inches from your table on Train Street. For those who want to combine cultural insights with a hands-on food experience, the Hanoi Old Quarter Street Food Tour With Local Students offers a guided walk that’s both casual and educational, perfect for foodies craving local flavors with a side of history.
Quick Overview
This list covers a variety of food tours in Hanoi — the capital city just north of Ha Long — that showcase Hanoi’s culinary diversity. From a spirited Jeep tour exploring landmarks and local neighborhoods, to intimate walking tours through the Old Quarter and Train Street, each experience offers something different. Whether you’re after a quick bite or a deeper dive into Hanoi’s street food scene, these tours cater to different interests and budgets. Explore the options below to find your perfect match.
1. Hanoi: Half‑Day Jeep City Tour, Landmarks & Local Food
At number 1, this Half‑Day Jeep Tour combines adventure with cultural exploration — all from the seat of a vintage Vietnam Army Jeep. For around $65, you’ll ride through Hanoi’s crowded streets, discovering hidden neighborhoods and taking in iconic landmarks like the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and Train Street. The tour is designed to fit into any schedule — you can choose morning, afternoon, or evening sessions.
What makes this tour special is its playful approach to sightseeing. Instead of the usual walking or bus tour, you’re seated in a rugged jeep that adds an element of adventure. As you weave through bustling streets, you’ll stop for a tasty Vietnamese meal and Hanoi’s famous egg coffee, a creamy, sweet beverage that’s hard to find outside Vietnam. The guide, often sharing personal stories, makes the experience authentic and engaging.
Guests consistently praise the tour for its friendly service and unique perspective on Hanoi’s everyday life. It’s perfect for travelers who want a quick yet immersive taste of Hanoi’s culture, sights, and flavors without the hassle of navigating on their own.
Bottom Line: A lively, fun-filled tour that combines landmarks, local neighborhoods, and authentic food, all from a vintage jeep — a memorable way to start or end your trip to Vietnam.
2. Hanoi: Walking Street Food & Train Street Culture Tour
Second on our list, this Walking Street Food & Train Street Tour offers an intimate look at Hanoi’s street food scene and the city’s quirky Train Street. For just $22, you’ll stroll through lively alleyways and visit local eateries that most travelers never see. Your guide is a friendly local who shares insights into Hanoi’s culinary traditions and culture, making each bite and stop meaningful.
The highlight is watching a train glide past just inches from your table on Train Street—a spectacle that’s become a symbol of Hanoi’s inventive spirit. Along the way, you’ll sample traditional dishes, from savory snacks to sweet treats, gaining a true sense of Hanoi’s flavor palette. The tour’s relaxed pace makes it ideal for those wanting a deeper, more personal experience of street life.
Reviews note that the guide’s knowledge enhances the experience, making it both fun and educational. It’s especially suited for travelers who enjoy wandering at a leisurely pace and want to learn the stories behind each dish.
Bottom Line: An authentic, laid-back way to taste Hanoi’s street food and see the city’s most photogenic spots, topped off with the thrill of Train Street.
3. Hanoi Old Quarter Street Food Tour With Local Students
Coming in at number 3 is the Old Quarter Street Food Tour with Local Students. This 4-hour experience blends delicious street food tastings with cultural insights, making it ideal for food lovers who want to connect with Hanoi’s youth and local life. Starting from Hanoi, the tour includes a guided walk through the historic Old Quarter, passing Hoan Kiem Lake and vibrant markets.
What sets this tour apart is the involvement of local students, who act as friendly guides and share their personal stories and favorite dishes. You’ll visit bustling food stalls, sample specialties that travelers often overlook, and get a behind-the-scenes look at Hanoi’s culinary scene. The tour also includes a convenient transfer to and from Halong Bay — making it a smart choice if you’re starting or ending your trip there.
This tour is highly rated for its engaging guides and authentic food experiences. However, it’s worth noting that it’s best suited for travelers prepared for a bit of walking and those interested in cultural exchange. The tour starts at 8:00 am, with about 2 hours of driving to Hanoi, so it’s perfect for early risers wanting a full day.
Bottom Line: A well-rounded, culturally immersive food tour that’s perfect for curious travelers eager to learn about Hanoi’s youth and street eats.
$30 per person
How to Choose the Best Food Tour in Ha Long
When picking your perfect food adventure, consider your budget, time constraints, and what kind of experience appeals to you most. The Jeep tour is great if you want a lively, sightseeing-focused day with a bit of fun, while the Walking Street Food Tour offers a slow-paced, authentic taste of Hanoi’s backstreets. For those interested in cultural exchange and deeper insights, the Old Quarter Tour with Local Students provides a personalized touch combined with food.
Practical tips include booking early, especially during peak travel seasons, and choosing a tour that fits your physical comfort level—some involve walking, others are more seated. Keep in mind that Hanoi’s best food scenes are often outside of typical tourist spots, so tours that explore alleyways and local neighborhoods tend to be more rewarding.
If you’re staying in Ha Long and want to explore Hanoi’s culinary scene, these tours can be conveniently booked in advance, so plan ahead. Remember, the best food tours are about more than just tasting; they’re about enjoying the local culture through its flavors and stories.
In summary, whether you’re after a fun, adventurous ride in a vintage jeep, an authentic street food walk with a local guide, or a cultural journey with students, Ha Long and nearby Hanoi offer fantastic options. For a quick, lively overview, the Jeep tour is perfect; for a relaxed, foodie adventure, the walking tour shines; and for those eager to connect on a deeper level, the Old Quarter with local students delivers. Book early, pack your curiosity, and get ready to taste your way through Vietnam’s incredible culinary landscape.