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Hanoi Travel Mistakes & Tips for First-Timers

Common pitfalls to avoid in Hanoi from hotels and taxis to street food, timing your stay, and more, plus our favorite recommendations and maps.

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We've spent years living in and around Hanoi and these are the mistakes we see first-timers make most often. From over-relying on tourist taxis to skipping the best street food spots. We've put together our go-to recommendations so you can skip the stress.

Stay central, use Grab, follow the locals for food, and book your northern tours in advance. Our full Vietnam Musts guide and Hanoi food maps have all our favorite spots pinned with the exact places we keep returning to for great coffee, bun cha, pho and more.

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