Though all these aforementioned attractions are must-sees, Hanoi also has some hidden gems for those willing to take on an unusual tour around Vietnam’s vibrant capital. Let’s explore!
1. Bao Tang Dong Vat (Hanoi Zoological Museum)
Regardless whether you are an animal lover or not, this colonial building located on the grounds of Hanoi’s University (19 Le Thanh Tong) holds a large collection of specimens that range from mammals, fish/amphibians to birds. Just for starters, a majestic elephant skeleton greets visitors as they enter the museum.
The collection dates back to the French-colonial years and has hardly been touched since the early 90s. Above everything else, the attack formation in which mammals are set up across the room will woe visitors as they might feel that the animals are stampeding towards them.
This is such an off-the-beaten-track museum that there isn’t much information about it on the web (at least in English). Travelers are better off by asking at their hotel/accommodation so that the staff can help them arrange a visit to this zoological place.
2. Hanoi’s Train Streets
Becoming increasingly popular among photographers, this neighborhood witnesses twice a day (3 PM and 7 PM) how a speeding train passes only inches from the homes of its residents. Probably, the 'tightest spot’ that the train faces in its whole route that connects Hanoi with southern capital Ho Chi Minh City.
Travelers will enjoy the whole ritual that goes with the train cruising through the area: the street is so narrow that locals must ensure their bikes, drying clothes and personal belongings, as well as their roaming children, are all safely inside the house before the train passes inches away from their front doors.
Hanoi’s train street, as foreigners like to call it, is located between Lê Duẩn and Khâm Thin street in Hanoi’s Old Quarter. Make sure that you get there on time, even a few minutes before the train makes its appearance, since you don’t want to see the front car tooting its horn and heading down your direction. Just follow the locals as they get prepared for the train; sit back and enjoy the show!
3. Vietnamese Egg Coffee
When it comes to odd food, travelers must try Vietnam’s most extravagant cup of coffee. Cà phê trứng (“egg coffee”) was originated during the French War (First Indochina War) when the country experienced the pressures of a milk shortage. It was then when Nguyen Van Giang decided to whisk an egg as a substitute and created one of the country’s signature drinks. Unlike other street food bites that might get you sick while traveling in Vietnam, egg coffee is a safe call when visitors are in the lookout for local delicatessens.
