Turtle Tower in Hoan Kiem lake - the symbol of spiritual tourism in the Hanoi city
As Vietnam gears up to celebrate the 80th anniversary of National Day on September 2nd, a four-day long weekend is driving a surge in domestic travel. New data from Booking.com reveals that Hanoi is the top-searched domestic destination by Vietnamese travelers during the National Day long weekend (between August 29th and September 3rd, 2025)*, climbing from 7th place to the 1st place as compared to the same time last year. The heightened appeal is consistent across all traveler segments, with Hanoi now ranking first for families (up from #14), groups (up from #9), couples (up from #7), and solo travelers (up from #2).
The National Day long weekend will see a series of major commemorative events planned in the capital. Highlights include a preliminary parade rehearsal on August 27, a full-dress rehearsal on August 30 and the official state-level parade and procession on National Day, September 2, 2025.
Beyond the grand celebrations, this long weekend offers an ideal chance to explore Hanoi's timeless charm. From its historic Old Quarter and world-class street food to its captivating museums and serene lakeside cafés, the city promises a rich experience. Booking.com, one of the world’s leading digital travel platforms, makes it easy to discover immersive experiences across Hanoi, whether you're a first-time visitor or returning to explore more.
For solo travellers: Wind through the heart of Hanoi on a vintage motorbike
Hanoi, a dynamic and modern city, remains deeply steeped in history, with ancient temples and storied monuments telling the tale of the nation's pivotal moments. Spending a day exploring cultural landmarks such as Long Bien Bridge, Hoan Kiem Lake, and the Old Quarter offers an engaging experience, especially for first-time solo travelers. For a more immersive adventure, consider joining an expert-led tour on a vintage motorbike. This unique experience takes you through hidden back streets, allows you to sample iconic local dishes, and rides past famous landmarks. It's an ideal choice for solo travelers or small groups looking to genuinely connect with the city's rhythm.
Hands-on cooking
For group or family travelers: Join a market-to-table cooking class
With 58%** of Vietnamese travelers stating that experiencing local food culture motivates them to travel, connecting with a destination through its cuisine is a truly meaningful way to explore. Often celebrated as Vietnam's culinary capital, travelers dive deeper into its rich food traditions through hands-on cooking experiences bookable on Booking.com. These classes offer more than just a meal; they involve shopping at bustling wet markets, discovering local ingredients and hearing the personal stories behind each dish – insights rarely found in guidebooks.
For couple travelers: Make and sip signature local brews
For couples seeking an intimate and immersive experience beyond sightseeing, exploring Hanoi's unique coffee culture together is a must. More than a daily ritual, Vietnamese coffee culture reflects layers of history, creativity and identity, particularly evident in Hanoi. Here, locals prefer their coffee brewed slowly through a metal "phin," a method that preserves the purest essence of each drop. The capital is also home to creative variations, from its iconic egg coffee with whipped yolk to coconut coffee and even unexpected twists like coffee infused with jam and local wine. For a memorable date, sign up for a coffee brewing workshop where you can learn traditional secrets, personalize your own blend and enjoy your creations side by side.
For all travelers: Immerse Yourself in Hanoi's Enduring Heritage
Hanoi offers unique ways for all travelers to connect with its vibrant heritage. Experience a timeless water puppet show, an ancient Vietnamese art form where wooden puppets gracefully dance across water to live music. At the iconic Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre, these vibrant performances bring folklore and village tales to life, demonstrating how Hanoi's history truly comes alive on stage.
Complement this with a visit to Bat Trang village, known for its unique landscape of winding alleys, kiln-lined courtyards and the smoky scent of earth. For over seven centuries, this village has been the cradle of Vietnam’s most renowned pottery tradition. Explore its centuries-old brick homes and heritage temples and browse the bustling ceramic market with more than 300 artisan stalls. The true highlight however is stepping into the studio to knead clay, spin the wheel and create your own handcrafted piece to bring home.
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