Hanoi is a fantastic city for exploring Vietnam’s emerging craft beer scene. Unlike more traditional tours that focus on temples or street food, these experiences offer a chance to see a different side of Hanoi—one where local breweries, vibrant neighborhoods, and lively bars take center stage. What makes these tours stand out is their mix of authentic tasting sessions, cultural insights, and fun-filled atmospheres. For example, the The Original Craft Beer tour of Hanoi takes you to four different breweries and includes up to 12 tastings in a small-group setting—perfect if you want a relaxed, insight-rich experience. We love that it combines local Vietnamese snacks with Western favorites, giving you a taste of Hanoi’s cultural blend.
If you prefer a city sightseeing approach with a craft beer twist, the Hanoi Exclusive Craft Beer Bus: Cultural Sightseeing Tour offers a quick, fun way to see Hanoi’s landmarks while enjoying local brews. Either way, Hanoi’s craft beer scene is thriving, and these tours help you dive into it in style.
Quick Overview
This list covers three top-rated Hanoi craft beer tours, each with its own distinct style and appeal. The first is a half-day brewery tour (The Original Craft Beer tour), focusing on visiting four breweries with tastings and snacks. The second is a city sightseeing beer bus (Hanoi Exclusive Craft Beer Bus), blending cultural highlights with beer stops in a four-hour tour. The third is a full-day city tour (Hanoi Exclusive Craft Beer Bus full-day), which combines visiting key sites like Train Street, the Opera House, and the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum with beer tasting. Now, let’s explore each one in detail.
1. The Original Craft Beer tour of Hanoi
Priced at $120 per person, this 5-hour small-group tour is a hit among beer enthusiasts. It’s designed to take you off the usual tourist trail, visiting four local breweries in different parts of Hanoi. The tour includes round-trip minibus transportation from your hotel, eliminating the hassle of figuring out logistics yourself. You’ll taste up to 12 craft beers, paired with Vietnamese and Western snacks, making it an excellent way to learn about Hanoi’s booming craft beer scene while satisfying your palate.
What makes this tour special is its intimate setting. With a maximum group size, you get personalized attention and meaningful conversations with the guide, who is passionate about Hanoi’s brewing evolution. The itinerary begins with a pickup in the Old Quarter and visits a brewery about 10 km south of the city center—here, you’ll sample three beers with finger foods. The tour then moves north to explore two more breweries, each with its own story and tasting experience. Guests consistently comment on the friendly guides, especially Julien, whose insights into Hanoi’s craft scene are a highlight.
Bottom Line: This tour is perfect for beer lovers who want a comprehensive, relaxed experience, tasting diverse beers in small-group comfort. It’s excellent value for those keen on learning about local brewing culture without sacrificing comfort or variety.
2. Hanoi Exclusive Craft Beer Bus: Cultural Sightseeing Tour
For around $32, this 4-hour tour offers a lively mix of city sightseeing and beer tasting, making it ideal for travelers short on time. Traveling via a comfortable mini bus, you’ll explore some of Hanoi’s most iconic landmarks while enjoying local beers along the way. It’s a shared experience that combines cultural sights like Old Quarter, St. Joseph’s Cathedral, Dong Xuan Market, Train Street, and West Lake, with plenty of opportunities to taste regional brews.
What sets this tour apart is its relaxed, social vibe. The guide takes you through Hanoi’s streets, sharing stories about the city’s history and culture, all while you sip local beer. The highlight for many is the visit to Train Street, where you can watch a train pass mere inches from the cafes—an unforgettable moment. Reviews consistently praise the friendliness of the guides, especially Paul and Radley, who are both knowledgeable and personable. The tour also includes some street food, like banh mi, making it a well-rounded experience.
Bottom Line: This tour suits travelers seeking a quick, fun way to combine sightseeing with beer sampling and socializing. It’s ideal for those who want to see Hanoi’s top attractions with minimal fuss and maximum enjoyment.
3. Hanoi Exclusive Craft Beer Bus: Cultural Sightseeing City Tour
Spending a full day at $35 per person, this tour is designed for those who want a comprehensive cultural experience with plenty of beer. It covers some of Hanoi’s most famous landmarks, including St. Joseph’s Cathedral, the Hanoi Opera House, and the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, with stops at busy markets like Dong Xuan. The tour allows you to get a deep dive into Vietnamese history and culture, all while enjoying local beers in a relaxed setting.
Highlights include exploring Hanoi’s beautiful lakes and parks, watching a traditional Water Puppet Show, and strolling through lively markets, all with beer in hand. The tour’s pace is steady but flexible, making it suitable for travelers with moderate mobility. Guests have commented on the engaging guides and the chance to experience Hanoi from a local perspective. Because it’s a full-day experience, it’s best suited for those who want an immersive day in the city, combining sightseeing with casual beer tasting.
Bottom Line: This option is perfect for history and culture buffs who also want to enjoy Hanoi’s beer scene. It offers excellent value with a well-rounded itinerary and plenty of opportunities to relax and soak up the local atmosphere.
How to Choose
When selecting the right craft beer tour in Hanoi, consider your priorities. If you’re a serious beer enthusiast eager for in-depth brewery visits and tastings, the The Original Craft Beer tour is your best bet. For a quick, fun overview that hits the city’s main sights with beers in hand, the Hanoi Exclusive Craft Beer Bus fits the bill. If you want a comprehensive day exploring Hanoi’s cultural sites along with beer, the full-day version is ideal.
Think about your budget, how much time you want to dedicate, and your interest in cultural vs. brewery-focused experiences. Booking early is always wise, especially during peak tourist seasons, as these tours are popular. Also, consider the physical pace—full-day tours require a bit more stamina, while the shorter options are more relaxed.
Hanoi offers a surprisingly rich craft beer scene, blending local traditions with modern brewing. Whether you prefer visiting breweries, touring the city on a beer bus, or combining cultural sights with tastings, there’s an option for every traveler. For a relaxed introduction, the half-day brewery tour is hard to beat. For those wanting a lively, social atmosphere with city highlights, the beer bus tours offer unbeatable fun. And if you’re after a full immersion into Hanoi’s history and culture with a cold one in hand, the full-day tour won’t disappoint.
Booking early ensures you won’t miss out on these popular adventures. No matter which you choose, Hanoi’s craft beer scene is sure to add a flavorful twist to your visit.