Autumn in Ha Noi is a time of enchantment and gastronomic delight. The crisp air of the season brings a welcomed change to the cityscape, as leaves transform into shades of gold and red. But it's not just the picturesque scenery that captivates the senses, it is also Ha Noi dishes. Ha Noi, with its rich culinary heritage, offers an exquisite array of foods and seasonal specialties that come alive during this time of year. 

Exploring Autumn Culinary Delights in Ha Noi

Ha Noi, with its rich culinary heritage, offers a tantalizing array of dishes that are best enjoyed during autumn.

Vong Village green rice flakes (Cốm Làng Vòng)

Green rice flakes are a quintessential autumn delicacy in Ha Noi. This unique type of green rice is harvested during the autumn months when the grains are still young and tender. The result is fragrant, slightly sweet rice that is used in various traditional Vietnamese sweets and desserts. When in Ha Noi in autumn, be sure to savor dishes made with green rice flakes, such as sticky rice with green rice flakes (xôi cốm), green rice flake cake (bánh cốm), or simply enjoy it on its own.

Green rice flake sweet with grated coconut

Dong Du guava (Ổi Đông Dư)

On the autumn morning, the vibrant green Dong Du guavas exude a delightful fragrance that fills the streets of Ha Noi, enticing anyone passing by to take a deep breath. While they may not be large, these guavas fit comfortably in the palm of your hand, yet they are plump, crispy, and sweet. When fully ripe, their enticing aroma, softness, and unparalleled sweetness tantalize the taste buds. 

Dong Du guavas possess a flavor superior to those from other regions

Ripe sau (Sấu chín)

If the scorching summer offers a soothing, refreshing glass of sau juice, then autumn in Ha Noi brings forth ripe, golden sau. Ripe sau sheds its tartness, replacing it with a delightful, sweet, and slightly tangy flavor.

The ripe sau, oozing with golden nectar, is peeled, spiral-cut, and then dipped into a mixture of salt and chili before being savored. The sweet and gentle taste, with a lingering touch of tartness and a hint of chili heat, creates an immensely enticing flavor profile.

Ripe sau has a very fragrant and sweet flavor

Xuan Dinh sapote (Hồng Xiêm Xuân Đỉnh)

Among the delightful culinary gifts that define autumn cuisine in Ha Noi, are also the sweet and fragrant sapote. It is only when autumn arrives that these sapotes, with their fine texture, and refreshing sweetness, truly ripen. The smell hue of the sapotes seems to bring the radiant spirit of autumn to every corner of the city. 

Sapote season is lasting only a few weeks before and after the Mid-Autumn Festival

Exploring Ha Noi in autumn: Must-do activities

As the capital city dons its golden coat of falling leaves and cooler weather sets in, here are some must-do activities to make the most of your autumn trip to Ha Noi:

Stroll along streets blanketed with golden leaves

The streets in Ha Noi become an enchanting world of yellow and orange as the leaves fall gracefully from the trees. Take leisurely walks along the tree-lined avenues, such as Phan Dinh Phung Street or Hoang Dieu Street, and immerse yourself in the beauty of autumn foliage.

Explore the Old Quarter on a cyclo

Hop on a traditional cyclo and embark on a leisurely tour of the Ha Noi Old Quarter. This charming district is even more picturesque during autumn, with its ancient architecture adorned by seasonal colors. 

Cyclo driver will take you through narrow streets and bustling markets

Admire the sunset at West Lake

As the day comes to a close, make your way to West Lake. This expansive lake is a peaceful oasis in the heart of Ha Noi. Find a lakeside spot, perhaps at one of the lakeside restaurants, and watch the sky transform into a breathtaking canvas of colors during the sunset.

Witness the flag-lowering and raising ceremony

If you're an early riser, don't miss the opportunity to witness the solemn and patriotic flag-lowering and raising ceremony at Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum. Held daily at sunrise and sunset, this ritual is a symbol of respect and honor to the country's beloved leader, Ho Chi Minh.

Flag-raising in the morning at Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum

Indulge in egg coffee

Ha Noi is renowned for its unique egg coffee, a creamy and decadent beverage that's perfect for cooler weather. The rich and velvety texture of egg coffee is a true treat for your taste buds.

Relax with sidewalk iced tea

Join the locals in a quintessential Ha Noi pastime - sipping iced tea on the sidewalk. Find a street-side café, take a seat on a small plastic stool, and enjoy a glass of refreshing tra da (iced tea) while observing the bustling street life. It's a simple yet immensely enjoyable experience.

People on a cafe stall on Ha Noi sidewalk

Ha Noi in autumn not only captivates with its delectable dishes but also enchants with its cultural richness and natural beauty. The city's transformation into a tapestry of golden hues and cooler temperatures is a testament to its unique charm during this season. Let's plan your Vietnam trip for a journey filled with memories and experiences that will linger long after you leave.