Discover Bạc Xỉu, Hanoi’s sweet iced coffee, in Hoan Kiem Ward! Explore its cultural roots, top cafés, costs, and eco-friendly tours with Legend Travel Group. Book now!
Capture the sweet allure of Hanoi’s coffee gem (Source: Internet)Bạc Xỉu, Hanoi’s indulgent iced coffee, is a beloved beverage that embodies the capital’s vibrant café scene. Pronounced “back siu” (meaning “a little coffee” in a Chinese-Vietnamese phrase), this drink, also known as cà phê bạc xỉu, is a sweeter, milkier cousin of the classic cà phê sữa đá. Served in Hoan Kiem Ward’s charming cafés, it combines robust Vietnamese coffee (typically Robusta or Arabica from the Central Highlands), generous amounts of sweetened condensed milk, fresh milk, and crushed ice, creating a creamy, dessert-like treat. Priced at $1.20–$2 (30,000–50,000 VND), Bạc Xỉu’s rich sweetness appeals to younger coffee drinkers and those seeking a milder caffeine kick, making it a perfect refreshment in Hanoi’s bustling Old Quarter.
Rooted in southern Vietnam’s “bạc tẩy xíu phé” (white glass with little coffee), Bạc Xỉu has been embraced by Hanoi’s sugar-loving locals, becoming a staple in the city’s café culture since the French colonial era. In Hoan Kiem Ward, cafés use eco-friendly reusable straws and locally sourced beans, aligning with Hanoi’s “Green Capital” initiative. Unlike the bolder cà phê đen or creamy cà phê trứng, Bạc Xỉu’s light, sweet profile makes it a crowd-pleaser, sipped on low stools at street-side stalls or in chic, air-conditioned venues. Legend Travel Group’s eco-friendly coffee tours guide travelers to savor Bạc Xỉu in its authentic Hanoi setting, ensuring a sustainable, immersive experience. Book via the links throughout this guide or contact us at WhatsApp: +84825862222 or email: sales@legendtravelgroup.com!
Vietnam’s administrative restructuring has reclassified Hanoi’s districts as wards or communes, with Hoan Kiem District now Hoan Kiem Ward under Hanoi City’s administration. This streamlines navigation to Bạc Xỉu hotspots using ward-based maps.
Legend Travel Group excels in sustainable Southeast Asia tourism, offering guided eco-friendly coffee and food tours in Hanoi’s Hoan Kiem Ward, tailored for travelers seeking authentic cultural experiences. Our tours use low-impact transport like cyclos or walking routes, led by English-speaking guides who share insights into Bạc Xỉu’s history, Hanoi’s coffee culture, and sustainable practices, ensuring a safe, enriching adventure. Supporting local cafés, we align with Hanoi’s green initiatives. With transparent pricing, free cancellations up to 48 hours before departure, and 24/7 support, we make planning effortless. Book our eco-tours via the links on this page and savor Bạc Xỉu responsibly! TripAdvisor Reviews
Photograph the eco-friendly charm of Hanoi’s café culture (Source: Internet)Bạc Xỉu, a modern twist on Vietnam’s French-influenced coffee culture, originated in Ho Chi Minh City’s Chinese-Vietnamese communities, where it was dubbed “bạc tẩy xíu phé” for its milk-heavy, coffee-light composition. In Hanoi, it gained popularity among younger generations and those new to coffee’s bitterness, reflecting the city’s sweet-tooth reputation. The preparation is simple yet precise: robusta or arabica beans are coarsely ground and brewed using a phin (traditional Vietnamese drip filter) over a glass with 2–3 tablespoons of sweetened condensed milk. Fresh milk (about three parts to one part coffee) and crushed ice are added, creating a creamy, pale drink that’s stirred for a velvety texture. In Hoan Kiem Ward, cafés source beans from sustainable farms in Đắk Lắk or Lâm Đồng, serving Bạc Xỉu with reusable straws to minimize waste.
A social ritual, Bạc Xỉu is sipped during casual meetups, study sessions, or breaks in Hanoi’s vibrant streets, fostering connection in the city’s iconic cafés. Its dessert-like sweetness pairs perfectly with Hanoi’s tropical monsoon climate (dry season: November–April, 15–28°C or 59–82.4°F; rainy season: May–October, 22–32°C or 71.6–89.6°F), offering a cooling escape. Compared to the intense cà phê đen or frothy cà phê trứng, Bạc Xỉu’s approachable flavor makes it a gateway to Vietnam’s coffee heritage, inviting travelers to dive into Hanoi’s café culture.
Hoan Kiem Ward’s Old Quarter is a haven for Bạc Xỉu, with cafés serving this sweet delight for $1.20–$2 (30,000–50,000 VND). Below are top spots, selected for quality, eco-friendly practices, and recent reviews:
A chic 5th-floor café with panoramic Hoan Kiem Lake views, offering creamy Bạc Xỉu with Central Highlands arabica beans, best at 10:00 AM. Uses reusable straws and biodegradable cups.
Cost: $1.50–$2 (37,500–50,000 VND); trà đá $0.20 (5,000 VND).
Hours: Daily, 8:00 AM–11:30 PM.
Eco-Friendly Note: Local sourcing; minimal waste.
Tip: Pair with bánh mì ($1.50 or 37,500 VND); included in our Hanoi Coffee Eco-Tour ($40–$60).
A retro-themed chain with nostalgic décor, serving Bạc Xỉu with robusta beans, best at 9:00 AM. Eco-friendly reusable straws and local ingredients.
Cost: $1.20–$1.80 (30,000–45,000 VND); coconut coffee $2 (50,000 VND).
Hours: Daily, 7:00 AM–10:00 PM.
Eco-Friendly Note: Supports sustainable coffee farms.
Tip: Try the coconut Bạc Xỉu variation; included in our Hanoi Coffee Eco-Tour ($40–$60).
A quirky café covered in colorful Post-it notes, offering sweet Bạc Xỉu with lake views, best at 3:00 PM. Uses biodegradable cups and local beans.
Cost: $1.50–$2 (37,500–50,000 VND); smoothies $2 (50,000 VND).
Hours: Daily, 6:30 AM–11:00 PM.
Eco-Friendly Note: Minimal plastic use.
Tip: Write a note for the walls; included in our Hanoi Coffee Eco-Tour ($40–$60).
A hidden gem in a narrow alley, serving authentic Bạc Xỉu with robusta beans, best at 8:00 AM. Eco-friendly reusable straws and local sourcing.
Cost: $1.20–$1.80 (30,000–45,000 VND); egg coffee $1.80 (45,000 VND).
Hours: Daily, 7:00 AM–9:00 PM.
Eco-Friendly Note: Supports small-scale farmers.
Tip: Try the rooftop for views; included in our Hanoi Coffee Eco-Tour ($40–$60).
A cozy, vintage spot with creamy Bạc Xỉu made from arabica beans, best at 2:00 PM. Eco-friendly biodegradable cups and local ingredients.
Cost: $1.50–$2 (37,500–50,000 VND); trà đào $1.50 (37,500 VND).
Hours: Daily, 8:00 AM–10:00 PM.
Eco-Friendly Note: Minimal waste practices.
Tip: Enjoy the quiet ambiance; included in our Hanoi Coffee Eco-Tour ($40–$60).
Experience Hanoi Tours with sustainable adventures (Source: Internet)To savor Bạc Xỉu authentically, follow these Hanoian practices:
Stir Well: Use a spoon or reusable straw to mix the condensed milk, fresh milk, coffee, and ice thoroughly for a creamy consistency.
Sip Slowly: Enjoy over 15–20 minutes to appreciate the sweet, cooling flavors, sipping through a reusable straw to reduce waste.
Customize: Add extra ice (free at most cafés) for a colder drink or request less condensed milk for a lighter taste.
Sides: Pair with bánh ngọt (sweet pastries, $0.50–$1 or 12,500–25,000 VND) or bánh mì ($1.50 or 37,500 VND) for a snack. Eco-Friendly Tip: Bring a reusable cup or straw to cafés for potential discounts and to support sustainability.
Enhance your Bạc Xỉu adventure with these sustainable activities in Hoan Kiem Ward:
Join a 2–3-hour walking or cyclo tour, sipping Bạc Xỉu at I-Feel Coffee at 10:00 AM, learning about Hanoi’s coffee heritage.
Cost: $15–$25 (375,000–625,000 VND) per person.
Hours: Daily, 8:00 AM–9:00 PM.
Eco-Friendly Note: Low-impact transport; supports local cafés.
Tip: Included in our Hanoi Coffee Eco-Tour ($40–$60).
Walk around Hoan Kiem Lake (200 m from Cầu Gỗ) at 9:00 AM or 5:00 PM, a 30–60-minute low-impact activity to see Ngoc Son Temple.
Cost: Free; Ngoc Son Temple entry $1.20 (30,000 VND).
Hours: Daily, 6:00 AM–10:00 PM.
Eco-Friendly Note: Pedestrian-friendly; supports local culture.
Tip: Included in our Hanoi Coffee Eco-Tour ($40–$60).
Explore Dong Xuan Market (1 km from Cầu Gỗ) for local snacks at 11:00 AM, a 1–2-hour sustainable activity.
Cost: Free entry; purchases $0.50–$2 (12,500–50,000 VND).
Hours: Daily, 6:00 AM–6:00 PM.
Eco-Friendly Note: Local sourcing; reusable bags.
Tip: Included in our Hanoi Coffee Eco-Tour ($40–$60).
Join a 2-hour eco-friendly workshop at 2:00 PM, learning to brew Bạc Xỉu with a phin filter using local beans.
Cost: $20–$30 (500,000–750,000 VND) per person.
Hours: Daily, 9:00 AM–5:00 PM.
Eco-Friendly Note: Sustainable coffee sources.
Tip: Included in our Hanoi Cultural Coffee Tour ($80–$120).
Walk to the Weekend Night Market (500 m from Cầu Gỗ) at 7:00 PM, a 1–2-hour sustainable activity for souvenirs and street food.
Cost: Free entry; purchases $1–$3 (25,000–75,000 VND).
Hours: Friday–Sunday, 6:00 PM–11:00 PM.
Eco-Friendly Note: Supports local vendors; walkable.
Tip: Included in our Hanoi Cultural Coffee Tour ($80–$120).
Start your Hanoi Travel with a creamy sip (Source: Internet)Bạc Xỉu cafés in Hoan Kiem Ward are accessible in 5–10 minutes from central Hanoi, using sustainable options:
By Bus: Routes 01, 09, or 14 to Hoan Kiem Lake (5–10 min, $0.30–$0.50 or 7,000–12,000 VND). Walk 5 minutes. Buses run every 10–20 minutes from 5:00 AM to 9:00 PM.
By Cyclo or Electric Cart: From Hoan Kiem Lake, hire a cyclo (5 min, $2–$5 or 50,000–125,000 VND).
By Bicycle or Walking: Rent a bicycle in Hoan Kiem Ward ($1–$3/day or 25,000–75,000 VND) or walk 5–10 minutes from the Old Quarter.
By Taxi or Grab: To Cầu Gỗ, $2–$4 (50,000–100,000 VND) one-way. Round-trip: $4–$8 (100,000–200,000 VND). Prestigious taxis: Mai Linh (0438,222,666), Hanoi Taxi (0438,535,353).
By Private Car (Legend Travel Group): Book a private car ($30–$50 or 750,000–1,250,000 VND round-trip for up to 4 people) for eco-friendly travel with stopovers.
By Air (to Hanoi): Arrive at Noi Bai International Airport (HAN), 25 km away. Round-trip flights: Ho Chi Minh City ($80–$150 or 2,000,000–3,750,000 VND), Da Nang ($60–$120 or 1,500,000–3,000,000 VND), international (e.g., Bangkok, $200–$600). Airport Bus No. 86 to Hoan Kiem Ward ($1.40 or 35,000 VND); taxi/Grab to Cầu Gỗ ($12–$15 or 300,000–375,000 VND). Navigation Tip: Use offline maps (Maps.me) with addresses (e.g., “63 Cầu Gỗ, Hoan Kiem Ward”). English-speaking guides simplify navigation.
Pack these essentials for a sustainable Hanoi visit:
Clothing: Lightweight, casual outfits for cultural respect; comfortable shoes for Old Quarter walking. Waterproof jackets for rainy season.
Sun Protection: SPF 50+ sunscreen, sunglasses, wide-brimmed hat.
Travel Essentials: Mosquito repellent, reusable water bottle, compact umbrella ($2–$5 or 50,000–125,000 VND).
Tech Gear: Smartphone with offline maps (Maps.me), portable charger.
Documents: Passport, travel insurance, tour confirmations, VND (10,000–50,000 notes).
Eco-Friendly Items: Reusable tote bag, straw, cup to minimize waste.
Extras: Notebook for café notes; cash, as some stalls are cash-only. Tip: Carry small VND notes for quick payments; use reusable straws at cafés.
Food and Drink Fees
Bạc Xỉu: $1.20–$2 (30,000–50,000 VND); cà phê trứng $1.80–$2.50 (45,000–62,500 VND).
Sides (bánh mì, pastries): $0.50–$1.50 (12,500–37,500 VND).
Guided Coffee Tour: $15–$25 (375,000–625,000 VND).
Market Purchases (souvenirs): $0.50–$3 (12,500–75,000 VND).
Ngoc Son Temple Entry: $1.20 (30,000 VND).
Transportation (Round-Trip, from Hoan Kiem Ward)
Bus: $0.60–$1 (14,000–24,000 VND).
Cyclo/Electric Cart: $4–$10 (100,000–250,000 VND).
Bicycle: $1–$3 (25,000–75,000 VND).
Walking: Free.
Taxi/Grab: $4–$8 (100,000–200,000 VND).
Private Car: $30–$50 (750,000–1,250,000 VND).
Airport Bus No. 86 + Taxi: $20–$30 (500,000–750,000 VND).
Accommodation (Per Night, Double Occupancy)
Homestays: $20–$50 (500,000–1,250,000 VND).
Hotels: $30–$80 (750,000–2,000,000 VND).
Total Daily Cost (Per Person)
Budget: $10–$25 (bus, Bạc Xỉu, homestay).
Mid-range: $35–$55 (cyclo, coffee tour, hotel).
Luxury: $75–$110 (private car, premium hotel). Tip: Book early for Tet or dry season; carry VND for small purchases.
Choose Your Timing: Dry season (November–April) for outdoor café seating; rainy season (May–October) for indoor comfort. Morning (8:00–10:00 AM) for quiet vibes; afternoon (2:00–4:00 PM) for lively scenes.
Book in Advance: Reserve Legend Travel Group’s coffee tours 3–5 weeks ahead for peak seasons to secure spots.
Sustainability: Walk or use cyclos ($2–$5 or 50,000–125,000 VND) to reduce emissions; bring a reusable cup to cafés. Buy local souvenirs ($0.50–$3 or 12,500–75,000 VND) at markets to support artisans.
Navigation: Use offline maps (Maps.me) with addresses like “63 Cầu Gỗ, Hoan Kiem Ward.” English-speaking guides simplify navigation.
Safety: Watch for pickpockets in crowded Old Quarter cafés; keep valuables secure. Carry a first-aid kit.
Weather Considerations: Dry season for open-air seating; rainy season requires waterproof gear ($2–$5 or 50,000–125,000 VND). Check AccuWeather for updates.
Cultural Respect: Say “cảm ơn”; engage baristas politely. Tip $0.20–$0.50 (5,000–12,500 VND) for great service. Respect café etiquette by not lingering too long during peak hours.
Health: Drink bottled water ($0.50 or 12,500 VND) alongside Bạc Xỉu to stay hydrated; apply mosquito repellent.
Our sustainable tours showcase Hoan Kiem Ward’s coffee culture, including Bạc Xỉu:
Hanoi Coffee Eco-Tour ($40–$60/person, 1 day): Walking or cyclo tour to I-Feel Coffee at 10:00 AM, tasting Bạc Xỉu, visiting Hoan Kiem Lake and Dong Xuan Market. Includes English-speaking guide, cyclo.
Hanoi Cultural Coffee Tour ($80–$120/person, 2 days): Bạc Xỉu at Đinh Café, Old Quarter Night Market, coffee workshop, homestay ($20–$50/night). Includes meals, guide.
Hanoi & Ninh Binh Immersion ($200–$350/person, 3 days): Bạc Xỉu at Cộng Cà Phê, Trang An Grottoes, homestays. Includes meals, eco-transfers. Prices include English-speaking guides, eco-transfers, and fees. Enjoy 15% off for groups of 8+! Book now via links around this page! TripAdvisor Reviews
Bạc Xỉu, Hanoi’s sweet iced coffee, is a delightful treat in Hoan Kiem Ward, savored for $1.20–$2 at iconic cafés like I-Feel Coffee and Đinh Café, where creamy flavors and vibrant settings shine. A symbol of Hanoi’s sugar-loving coffee culture, it’s served with eco-friendly reusable straws and locally sourced beans, blending tradition with sustainability. Legend Travel Group’s Hanoi Tours guide you to the heart of Bạc Xỉu’s charm, offering a taste of Hanoi’s café heritage and ensuring a sustainable Hanoi Travel experience. Whether sipping by Hoan Kiem Lake or exploring the Old Quarter, Bạc Xỉu promises an unforgettable Hanoi adventure. Don’t miss out—browse our featured tours and book your coffee journey today!
Ready to savor Hanoi’s iconic Bạc Xỉu? Reserve your sustainable tour with Legend Travel Group and embark on an unforgettable culinary adventure!
Author Bio: Written by Tony Bùi, with over 20 years of experience in the travel industry, personally guiding and organizing tours for over 100,000 travellers across Southeast Asia. This guide draws from firsthand insights, guest feedback from Legend Travel Group surveys.
Sources: By Tony Bùi at Legend Travel Group
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