Hanoi is a city where food is more than just fuel; it’s woven into the fabric of daily life. The streets are a smorgasbord of flavors, aromas, and sights, making it one of the best places to explore via guided food tours. Whether you’re eager to watch a train pass inches from your coffee at Train Street or learn how to cook authentic Pho from scratch, Hanoi offers a variety of experiences. We love the Guided Food Tours with Train Street visits because they combine local cuisine with the thrill of a train rushing by—something truly unique. For a more personalized experience, the private Vegan and Vegetarian Walking Tour offers a detailed look at Hanoi’s vegetarian delights with attentive guides. With so many options, you’ll find a tour that fits your pace, budget, and curiosity.
Quick Overview
Our list features walking tours, small-group experiences, and private cooking classes designed to give you a real taste of Hanoi. From quick 2-hour street food walks to 4-hour explorations with multiple tastings, each tour offers a different way to savor the city’s culinary riches. Some highlight the famous Train Street, while others focus on market visits or specialized cuisine like vegetarian dishes or home cooking classes. Each experience is crafted to suit different interests and budgets, providing a rich, authentic taste of Hanoi’s food scene. Now, let’s explore each of these top-rated tours in detail.
1. Hanoi: Guided Food Tour with Train Street Visit
At number 1, this guided tour offers an engaging mix of local cuisine and a thrilling train street experience. Over 3.5 to 4 hours, you’ll walk through Hanoi’s Old Quarter, tasting favorites like Vietnamese coffee and street snacks while discovering hidden alleys and street art. The highlight is witnessing a train pass just inches from your seat at Train Street, which is a spectacle you won’t forget. The tour is flexible enough to increase your chances of catching the train, making it a good choice for spontaneous thrill-seekers.
Guests praise the informative guides like Stella and Khoi, who go out of their way to include allergies and cultural stories. The portions are generous, and the tour’s affordability—just $18—offers excellent value. If you want a well-rounded introduction to Hanoi’s food and culture, especially with the adrenaline rush of Train Street, this tour hits the mark.
Bottom Line: Perfect for first-timers wanting a taste of Hanoi’s iconic street food plus an unforgettable train street encounter.
2. Hanoi: Street Food Tour with Train Street & Hidden Alleyways
At number 2, this vegetarian-friendly tour takes you through over 7 local dishes in some of Hanoi’s most vibrant eateries. The tour also guarantees a visit to Train Street, with a drink included, making it ideal for those seeking a mix of delicious bites and excitement. The guide’s insider knowledge helps you explore the narrow, lively streets while unveiling stories behind each dish, from traditional recipes to local customs.
For just $16, the tour offers outstanding value, especially for travelers who want to experience Hanoi’s core food culture in a relaxed, small-group setting. The inclusion of vegetarian options means it appeals to different dietary needs without sacrificing flavor or authenticity. Many reviews highlight the personal attention from guides like Alex, who make the experience especially memorable.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for food lovers wanting multiple authentic dishes and the Train Street experience in a shorter, budget-friendly tour.
3. Hanoi: Guided Street Food Tour with Train Street Experience
At number 3, this small-group tour offers intimate exploration of Hanoi’s street eats with a dedicated local guide. The 3-hour itinerary includes traditional street foods like Banh Xeo and Banh Cuon, with the tour culminating at Hanoi Train Street for that iconic train-sighting. The balance of walking, tasting, and sightseeing makes it a well-rounded option for those short on time but eager for a genuine experience.
Guests often mention guides like Lisa and Louis, whose insights and attentiveness elevate the experience. The small group size (up to 10) ensures plenty of personal attention, and the focus on traditional dishes makes this tour ideal for those who want a snapshot of authentic Hanoi cuisine.
Bottom Line: Great for visitors wanting a compact, authentic street food experience with a memorable Train Street visit.
4. Ha Noi the best street walking Food Tour, Vegan, vegetarian Option
At number 4, this private walking tour is a delight for those wanting a personalized, flexible experience. Covering 7 to 10 different food locations, your guide will introduce you to Hanoi’s street food scene, from local dishes to drinks, all in a relaxed, private setting. The tour lasts about 2.5 hours, making it ideal for travelers with limited time or who prefer a more intimate experience.
The guides like Bo and Gigi are praised for their knowledge and friendliness, and the vegetarian options make it accessible to more dietary restrictions. The focus on local culture and authentic flavors makes this tour particularly appealing to first-time visitors or those seeking a more tailored experience.
Bottom Line: Best suited for private groups or those with dietary restrictions who want a relaxed, customized tasting tour.
5. Hanoi Street Food Experience for Food Lovers
At number 5, this 3-hour tour is ideal for those seeking a lively, immersive experience. Accompanied by a passionate guide, you’ll explore the Old Quarter’s hidden streets, sampling fresh fruit, street snacks, and delicacies like Vietnamese specialities. The small-group setting ensures you get plenty of attention and insider tips.
Guests rave about the exotic flavors and stories shared by guides like Ly, who bring Hanoi’s food culture alive. The mix of sightseeing and tasting makes this a great introduction for travelers eager to learn about local ingredients and culinary traditions while enjoying a fun, relaxed walk.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those who want a comprehensive, lively food tour with cultural insights woven into the tasting.
6. Hanoi: Guided Street Food Tour with Tastings
At number 6, this tour emphasizes authentic Vietnamese dishes, with more than 7 foods sampled during a 3-hour walk. It’s a good choice for travelers wanting to explore Hanoi’s street food scene in depth, with a focus on traditional flavors like sticky rice, papaya salad, and ice cream.
The tour’s small size (max 6 people) allows for personal interaction and tailored recommendations. Plus, the guide’s knowledge ensures you understand the food’s history and ingredients, enriching your experience. It’s a good fit for culinary travelers who want both variety and context.
Bottom Line: An excellent, intimate tour for foodies eager to discover Hanoi’s classic street eats.
7. Hanoi Guided Street Food Tour Small Group
At number 7, this 4-hour tour combines a thorough exploration of the Old Quarter with a focus on Vietnamese dishes like Banh Mi and Pho. The guide will take you to at least seven different spots, sharing the stories behind each dish and ingredient. The added bonus: pickup from your hotel inside the Old Quarter makes for a smooth experience.
Guests mention the balance of walking, tasting, and cultural insights, making it ideal for first-time visitors who want a comprehensive yet relaxed overview. The tour is especially praised for its variety and friendly guides.
Bottom Line: Suited for travelers who want a longer, in-depth introduction to Hanoi’s street food with convenient logistics.
8. Hanoi Walking Street Food Tour with Train-Street Visit
At number 8, this tour combines cultural sights like St. Joseph’s Cathedral and Hoan Kiem Lake with a full taste of Hanoi’s street eats. The highlight is the Train Street experience, where you watch a train go by while sipping coffee—an absolute must-see.
Rated top for its friendly guides like Stella and Stephanie, the tour offers a cozy group size and a diverse menu covering savory and sweet options. It’s perfect if you want a complete cultural and culinary immersion in just three hours.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers looking for a well-rounded, lively tour that balances sightseeing and food.
9. Hanoi Food Tours in Hanoi Old Quarter (Small Group/Private)
At number 9, this small-group or private tour is focused on up to 10 dishes and drinks. The 3-hour experience starts with hotel pickup and includes a variety of dishes like Banh Xeo and Noodle Soup. It’s best suited for travelers who want a more personalized, flexible experience with plenty of food.
Reviewers mention the careful attention to dietary needs and the opportunity to continue exploring Hanoi on your own afterward. The tour’s value lies in its combination of local insight and diverse tastings.
Bottom Line: Great for those who want a tailored, intimate tasting tour with flexible options.
10. Hanoi: Small-Group Street Food Walking Tour
At number 10, this 3 to 4-hour tour is perfect for foodies on a budget. It covers Hanoi’s main street food hotspots, with stops at local vendors for dishes like Bun Cha and Banh Cuon. The small group size ensures personal attention and a relaxed pace.
Guests comment on the delicious food and lively atmosphere, especially the experience of walking through the Old Quarter as locals go about their day. The tour also includes a traditional dance show, adding a cultural touch.
Bottom Line: A solid choice for budget-conscious travelers wanting an authentic yet affordable Hanoi food experience.
11. Culture Tour, Food Tours and Experience Tours
At number 11, this multi-day cruise combines culinary experiences with sightseeing at Halong Bay. Although not a traditional tasting tour, it offers culinary activities like cooking classes and is suited for those looking to combine food with a luxury voyage.
Rated highly, it’s best for travelers wanting a multi-day, immersive experience that includes both culinary and cultural highlights.
Bottom Line: Ideal if you want a longer, multi-day adventure blending sightseeing with regional cuisine.
12. Hanoi street food tour (small group)
At number 12, this highly-rated, 3-hour small-group tour emphasizes local flavors and hidden spots. It highlights dishes like Nham Bo Kho and Bun Cha with guides like Cherry and Anna, who bring stories and insights into Hanoi’s culinary secrets.
Guests love the personalized attention and the chance to see Hanoi through a foodie lens. It’s particularly good for travelers who want to explore less-touristy eateries and learn the stories behind each dish.
Bottom Line: Perfect for curious travelers eager to explore Hanoi’s authentic street food beyond the usual spots.
13. Vietnamese Food Cooking Class in Hanoi with Market Experience
At number 13, this hands-on class offers a full immersion into Vietnamese cuisine. Starting with a market visit, you’ll learn to cook three dishes, enjoying them afterward. The class size is limited to 14 for personalized attention, and it includes sample shopping, cooking, and dining.
Rated highly, guests appreciate the expert guidance and the chance to take home recipes. It’s perfect for those who want to learn skills to recreate Hanoi’s flavors back home or enjoy a culinary experience in a relaxed setting.
Bottom Line: Excellent for foodies who want to learn authentic cooking techniques and shop for ingredients firsthand.
14. Hanoi Food Tours
At number 14, this 3-hour walking tour takes you inside the 36 Streets of the Old Quarter, visiting 6 to 8 food vendors. The guide introduces you to local delicacies, with stops at places like Hang Bac Street, famous for its craftsmanship, and a variety of street stalls.
Guests enjoy the easy pace and insider stories, which make it ideal for first-time visitors wanting a rundown of Hanoi’s street food scene. The tour includes samples of dishes like rice noodle soup and spring rolls.
Bottom Line: Best for travelers wanting a classic, well-rounded street food experience with authentic local bites.
15. (Group/Individual) HANOI STREET FOOD TOUR
Finally, at number 15, this cost-effective private or group tour emphasizes wandering the Old Quarter, tasting local street foods, and learning about Hanoi’s culture. With a small group or private setting, it offers flexibility and personalized service.
Rated 5/5, reviewers mention the variety of dishes like Banh Cuon and Bun Cha, plus the opportunity to photograph Hoan Kiem Lake along the way. It’s an excellent budget option for those wanting a flexible, intimate experience.
Bottom Line: Best for budget travelers who desire a personalized, authentic Hanoi street food journey.
How to Choose the Right Food Tour in Hanoi
Picking the best tour depends on your budget, time, dietary preferences, and curiosity level. If you want a thrilling experience with Train Street, go for the Guided Food Tour with Train Street. For a private, customized experience that covers vegetarian options, the Vegan and Vegetarian Walking Tour is ideal. Budget travelers should consider small-group tours that focus on high-quality local eats at a lower price.
Thinking about cooking your own Vietnamese dishes? The Cooking Class offers hands-on skills and a market tour. Those with limited time might prefer the shorter 2-3 hour tours, while foodies looking for an in-depth day out could opt for the multi-day cruise.
Book early, especially during peak seasons, to ensure your spot on these popular excursions.
Hanoi’s food scene is a rich tapestry of flavors, stories, and traditions. Whether you’re sampling Pho and Spring Rolls in a bustling alley, watching a train pass by as you sip egg coffee, or learning how to cook perfect Banh Xeo, each of these tours offers a unique window into Vietnam’s culinary soul. For every type of traveler—budget, foodie, adventure-seeker—there’s a perfect way to taste Hanoi’s best. Dive in early, plan ahead, and get ready to enjoy some of the most memorable bites of your trip.