Bia Hơi Hà Nội Guide: World’s Cheapest Beer with Priceless Value

Priceless Quality at Pennies a Glass

Bia hơi Hà Nội, Hanoi’s iconic fresh beer (bia hơi in Vietnamese, meaning “fresh beer”), is renowned as one of the world’s cheapest beers, costing just $0.20–$0.50 (5,000–12,500 VND) per glass, yet its value and quality are truly priceless. This light, golden lager, brewed daily without preservatives, delivers a crisp, refreshing taste with slight carbonation and a low alcohol content (3–4% ABV), perfect for Hanoi’s tropical climate. Served ice-cold in handmade recycled glasses on tiny plastic stools at street-side joints, bia hơi transcends its price tag, offering an authentic cultural experience. Locals and travelers in Hoan Kiem, Ba Đình, and Hai Bà Trưng Wards gather to toast with chants of “Mốt, hai, ba, zô!” (One, two, three, cheers!), creating a communal ritual that captures Hanoi’s vibrant, unpretentious spirit.

Beyond affordability, bia hơi’s quality lies in its purity and tradition, crafted with up to 50% rice for a light, airy flavor. Its daily brewing ensures freshness, while its eco-friendly recycled glassware aligns with Hanoi’s “Green Capital” initiative, supported by local sourcing of snacks like boiled peanuts or dried squid. From French colonial origins in the 1890s to its post-independence rise as a Hanoian staple, bia hơi embodies resilience and community. Legend Travel Group’s eco-friendly food and drink tours guide travelers to Hanoi’s top bia hơi spots, offering a sustainable way to savor this priceless experience. Book via the links throughout this guide or contact us at WhatsApp: +84825862222 or email: sales@legendtravelgroup.com!

Administrative Update

Vietnam’s administrative restructuring has reclassified Hanoi’s districts as wards or communes, with Hoan Kiem District now Hoan Kiem Ward, Ba Đình District now Ba Đình Ward, and Hai Bà Trưng District now Hai Bà Trưng District under Hanoi City’s administration. This streamlines access to bia hơi hotspots via sustainable infrastructure.

Legend Travel Group excels in sustainable Southeast Asia tourism, offering guided eco-friendly food and drink tours in Hanoi’s Hoan Kiem, Ba Đình, and Hai Bà Trưng Wards, tailored for travelers seeking authentic experiences. Our tours use low-impact transport like cyclos and electric carts, led by English-speaking guides who share the cultural and historical significance of bia hơi, ensuring a safe, enriching adventure. Supporting local vendors, 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 bia hơi responsibly! TripAdvisor Reviews

Bia hơi Hà Nội is a cultural treasure, a draft lager brewed daily for a pure, light taste with a golden hue, slight carbonation, and 3–4% ABV. Free of preservatives, it’s delivered fresh in steel kegs to street-side joints, ensuring unmatched quality at a fraction of the cost of global beers. Originating in 1890 at the French-built Hommel Brewery (renamed Hanoi Brewery post-1954 independence), bia hơi became a Hanoian staple when rice wine was curbed, with its low price and light flavor winning hearts. Major breweries like Hanoi Brewery, Viet Ha Brewery, and Southeast Asia Brewery, alongside small-scale producers, craft this beer with up to 50% rice, giving it a unique, airy profile.

Priced at $0.20–$0.50 (5,000–12,500 VND) per glass, bia hơi is served in recycled glasses, paired with vegan-friendly snacks like peanuts, dried squid, or fried tofu ($1–$3 or 25,000–75,000 VND), available from late morning to late evening in 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). The term “nhậu” captures the bia hơi experience—drinking, snacking, and socializing in a lively, communal setting. Its affordability doesn’t compromise quality; instead, it amplifies the priceless joy of connecting with locals, sharing stories, and immersing in Hanoi’s street culture. Eco-friendly practices, like recycled glassware and local sourcing, enhance its sustainable appeal, making every sip a celebration of Hanoi’s heritage.

Hanoi’s Hoan Kiem, Ba Đình, and Hai Bà Trưng Wards, alongside other key areas, host iconic bia hơi joints offering unbeatable value and quality. Below are the top 10 spots, selected for their authenticity, sustainable practices, and recent reviews:

1. Bia Hơi Tạ Hiện Corner (Tạ Hiện & Lương Ngọc Quyền Intersection, Hoan Kiem Ward)

Hanoi’s nightlife epicenter, dubbed “Beer Corner,” this Hoan Kiem Ward intersection earns a 4.5/5 rating on TripAdvisor for its vibrant vibe. Plastic stools spill onto streets, serving ice-cold bia hơi in recycled glasses with snacks like peanuts and spring rolls. Its eco-friendly glassware and electric atmosphere make it a must-visit at 7:00 PM.

• Cost: $0.30–$0.50 (7,500–12,500 VND) per glass; snacks $1–$2 (25,000–50,000 VND).

• Hours: Daily, 11:00 AM–late.

• Eco-Friendly Note: Recycled glasses; local ingredients.

• Tip: Arrive by 6:30 PM to secure a stool; included in our Hanoi Food Eco-Tour ($50–$80).

2. Bia Hơi Ngọc Hà (19C Ngọc Hà, Ba Đình Ward)

A serene beer garden near Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum in Ba Đình Ward, Ngọc Hà is loved for its tranquil vibe and fresh bia hơi, served in recycled glasses with dishes like grilled frog or fried eel. Its sustainable sourcing makes it ideal for 4:00 PM visits.

• Cost: $0.20–$0.40 (5,000–10,000 VND) per glass; snacks $1.50–$3 (37,500–75,000 VND).

• Hours: Daily, 10:00 AM–10:00 PM.

• Eco-Friendly Note: Recycled glassware; local produce.

• Tip: Visit post-mausoleum tour; included in our Hanoi Cultural Food Tour ($100–$150).

3. Bia Hơi Hải Xóm (22 Tăng Bạt Hổ, Hai Bà Trưng District)

A lively spot in Hai Bà Trưng District, Hải Xóm is renowned for its crisp bia hơi and snacks like dried squid or fermented pork rolls, served in recycled glasses. Its eco-friendly practices and local crowd make it perfect for 7:00 PM socializing.

• Cost: $0.20–$0.40 (5,000–10,000 VND) per glass; snacks $1–$2.50 (25,000–62,500 VND).

• Hours: Daily, 11:00 AM–11:00 PM.

• Eco-Friendly Note: Recycled glassware; local ingredients.

• Tip: Pair with hotpot in cooler evenings; included in our Hanoi Food Eco-Tour ($50–$80).

4. Bia Hơi Duong Thanh (2C Dương Thành, Hoan Kiem Ward)

A cozy Hoan Kiem Ward joint near the French Quarter, Duong Thanh offers fresh bia hơi in recycled glasses with snacks like roasted peanuts and spring rolls. Its sustainable sourcing and quieter setting make it ideal for 11:00 AM or 4:00 PM visits.

• Cost: $0.30–$0.50 (7,500–12,500 VND) per glass; snacks $1–$2 (25,000–50,000 VND).

• Hours: Daily, 10:00 AM–10:00 PM.

• Eco-Friendly Note: Recycled glasses; local produce.

• Tip: Visit at 11:00 AM for calm; included in our Hanoi Food Eco-Tour ($50–$80).

5. Bia Hơi Trúc Bạch (1 Trần Vũ, Trúc Bạch Lake, Ba Đình Ward)

A scenic spot by Trúc Bạch Lake in Ba Đình Ward, Trúc Bạch serves bia hơi in recycled glasses with snacks like grilled squid, offering a serene lakeside vibe. Its sustainable practices make it perfect for 6:00 PM visits.

• Cost: $0.20–$0.40 (5,000–10,000 VND) per glass; snacks $1.50–$3 (37,500–75,000 VND).

• Hours: Daily, 11:00 AM–10:00 PM.

• Eco-Friendly Note: Recycled glassware; local ingredients.

• Tip: Combine with a lake walk; included in our Hanoi Cultural Food Tour ($100–$150).

6. Bia Hơi Bát Đàn (34 Bát Đàn, Hoan Kiem Ward)

An Old Quarter staple in Hoan Kiem Ward, Bát Đàn is known for its zesty bia hơi and lively vibe, served in recycled glasses with snacks like fried tofu or beef jerky. Its sustainable sourcing makes it ideal for 5:00 PM visits.

• Cost: $0.20–$0.40 (5,000–10,000 VND) per glass; snacks $1–$2 (25,000–50,000 VND).

• Hours: Daily, 10:00 AM–10:00 PM.

• Eco-Friendly Note: Recycled glasses; local ingredients.

• Tip: Visit early to avoid crowds; included in our Hanoi Food Eco-Tour ($50–$80).

7. Bia Hơi Vân Hồ (2B Hoa Lư, Hai Bà Trưng District)

Established in 1991, this historic Hai Bà Trưng District spot offers refreshing bia hơi in recycled glasses with dishes like roasted goose or fish. Its sustainable practices make it ideal for 6:00 PM visits.

• Cost: $0.20–$0.50 (5,000–12,500 VND) per glass; snacks $1.50–$3 (37,500–75,000 VND).

• Hours: Daily, 10:00 AM–11:00 PM.

• Eco-Friendly Note: Recycled glassware; local produce.

• Tip: Try the signature fish dish; included in our Hanoi Cultural Food Tour ($100–$150).

8. Bia Hơi Lan Chín (49 Nguyễn Hữu Huân, Hoan Kiem Ward)

A traditional Hoan Kiem Ward joint, Lan Chín serves classic bia hơi in recycled glasses with snacks like roasted duck or beef stir-fry. Its eco-friendly practices make it perfect for 5:00 PM visits.

• Cost: $0.30–$0.50 (7,500–12,500 VND) per glass; snacks $1–$2.50 (25,000–62,500 VND).

• Hours: Daily, 10:00 AM–10:00 PM.

• Eco-Friendly Note: Recycled glasses; local ingredients.

• Tip: Order duck for authenticity; included in our Hanoi Food Eco-Tour ($50–$80).

9. Bia Hơi Thu Hằng (790 Đường Láng, Đống Đa Ward)

A spacious spot in Đống Đa Ward, Thu Hằng is known for its cool bia hơi and diverse menu, including seafood and grilled meats, served in recycled glasses. Its sustainable sourcing makes it ideal for 6:00 PM group gatherings.

• Cost: $0.20–$0.40 (5,000–10,000 VND) per glass; snacks $1.50–$3 (37,500–75,000 VND).

• Hours: Daily, 10:00 AM–11:00 PM.

• Eco-Friendly Note: Recycled glassware; local produce.

• Tip: Book for large groups; included in our Hanoi Cultural Food Tour ($100–$150).

10. Bia Hơi Đức Trọc (42 Tân Triều Mới, Thanh Trì Ward)

A modern yet nostalgic spot in Thanh Trì Ward, Đức Trọc offers high-quality bia hơi in recycled glasses with snacks like pork skewers or seafood. Its eco-friendly practices make it ideal for 7:00 PM visits.

• Cost: $0.20–$0.50 (5,000–12,500 VND) per glass; snacks $1–$3 (25,000–75,000 VND).

• Hours: Daily, 10:00 AM–11:00 PM.

• Eco-Friendly Note: Recycled glasses; local ingredients.

• Tip: Try pork skewers; included in our Hanoi & Son Tay Immersion ($250–$400).

1. Sip Bia Hơi at Iconic Joints

Visit spots like Tạ Hiện Corner or Ngọc Hà during afternoon or evening, a 15–30-minute social experience showcasing sustainable glassware.

• Cost: $0.20–$0.50 (5,000–12,500 VND) per glass; snacks $1–$3 (25,000–75,000 VND).

• Hours: Typically 10:00 AM–11:00 PM.

• Eco-Friendly Note: Recycled glasses; local snacks.

• Tip: Included in our Hanoi Food Eco-Tour ($50–$80).

2. Join a Sustainable Food & Drink Tour

Embark on a guided tour to bia hơi joints during peak evening hours, a 2–3-hour eco-friendly activity using cyclos or walking, teaching toasting rituals.

• 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 vendors.

• Tip: Included in our Hanoi Cultural Food Tour ($100–$150).

3. Explore Old Quarter Food Markets

Visit Đồng Xuân Market (Ba Đình Ward, 0.5 km from Hoan Kiem) to source bia hơi snacks like peanuts or squid, a 1–2-hour low-impact activity, best in the morning.

• Cost: Free entry; purchases $1–$5 (25,000–125,000 VND).

• Hours: Daily, 6:00 AM–6:00 PM.

• Eco-Friendly Note: Local sourcing; reusable bags.

• Tip: Included in our Hanoi Food Eco-Tour ($50–$80).

4. Pair with Eco-Friendly Street Food

Sample dishes like phở or bánh mì at nearby stalls during lunch or dinner, a 30–60-minute sustainable experience complementing bia hơi.

• Cost: $1–$3 (25,000–75,000 VND) per dish.

• Hours: Daily, 6:00 AM–10:00 PM.

• Eco-Friendly Note: Supports vendors; biodegradable packaging.

• Top Spots: Phở Thìn (13 Lò Sũ, Hoan Kiem Ward); Bánh Mì 25 (25 Hàng Cá, Hoan Kiem Ward).

• Tip: Included in our Hanoi Cultural Food Tour ($100–$150).

5. Stroll Hoan Kiem Lake

Walk around Hoan Kiem Lake (5-minute stroll from Tạ Hiện Corner) post-bia hơi, a 30–60-minute low-impact activity, best in early evening for sunset views.

• 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 Food Eco-Tour ($50–$80).

Bia hơi joints in Hoan Kiem Ward are accessible in 10–15 minutes from central Hanoi, while those in Ba Đình or Hai Bà Trưng Wards take 20–25 minutes, using sustainable options:

• By Bus: Routes 01, 09, or 14 to Hoan Kiem spots (10–15 min, $0.30–$0.50 or 7,000–12,000 VND); Routes 03, 08, or 23 to Ba Đình/Hai Bà Trưng (20–25 min, $0.30–$0.50 or 7,000–12,000 VND). Walk 5–10 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 to Hoan Kiem spots (5–10 min, $2–$5 or 50,000–125,000 VND) or Ba Đình/Hai Bà Trưng (20 min, $4–$7 or 100,000–175,000 VND).

• By Bicycle or Walking: Rent a bicycle in Hoan Kiem Ward ($1–$3/day or 25,000–75,000 VND) or walk 10 minutes to Hoan Kiem spots. Cycling to Ba Đình/Hai Bà Trưng takes 20–25 minutes.

• By Taxi or Grab: To Hoan Kiem spots, $2–$4 (50,000–100,000 VND) one-way; to Ba Đình/Hai Bà Trưng, $4–$6 (100,000–150,000 VND) one-way. Round-trip: $4–$8 (100,000–200,000 VND) for Hoan Kiem, $8–$12 (200,000–300,000 VND) for others. Prestigious taxi companies include Mai Linh (0438,222,666) and 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 Hoan Kiem ($12–$15 or 300,000–375,000 VND).Navigation Tip: Use offline maps (Maps.me) with addresses (e.g., “Tạ Hiện & Lương Ngọc Quyền, Hoan Kiem Ward”). English-speaking guides from our tours simplify navigation.

Pack these essentials for a sustainable, comfortable 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 to minimize waste.

• Extras: Notebook for social notes; cash, as most joints are cash-only. Tip: Carry small VND notes for quick payments; use reusable glasses to support eco-practices.

Costs for Bia Hơi Hà Nội Experience

Food and Drink Fees

• Bia Hơi: $0.20–$0.50 (5,000–12,500 VND) per glass; premium spots $0.50–$0.80 (12,500–20,000 VND).

• Snacks (e.g., peanuts, squid): $1–$3 (25,000–75,000 VND).

• Guided Food & Drink Tour: $15–$25 (375,000–625,000 VND).

• Market Purchases: $1–$5 (25,000–125,000 VND).

• Other Street Food (e.g., phở): $1–$3 (25,000–75,000 VND).

• Ngoc Son Temple (Hoan Kiem): $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) for Hoan Kiem; $8–$14 (200,000–350,000 VND) for Ba Đình/Hai Bà Trưng.

• Bicycle: $1–$3 (25,000–75,000 VND).

• Walking (Hoan Kiem): Free.

• Taxi/Grab: $4–$8 (100,000–200,000 VND) for Hoan Kiem; $8–$12 (200,000–300,000 VND) for Ba Đình/Hai Bà Trưng.

• 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, bia hơi, homestay).

• Mid-range: $35–$55 (cyclo, food 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 joints; rainy season (May–October) for covered spots with discounts. Afternoon (4:00 PM–6:00 PM) for relaxed vibes; evening (7:00 PM–10:00 PM) for nightlife buzz.

• Book in Advance: Reserve Legend Travel Group’s food tours 3–5 weeks ahead for peak seasons to secure spots.

• Sustainability: Walk or use cyclos ($2–$5 or 50,000–125,000 VND) in Hoan Kiem to reduce emissions; choose joints with recycled glassware. Buy local snacks ($1–$2 or 25,000–50,000 VND) at markets to support vendors.

• Navigation: Use offline maps (Maps.me) with addresses like “Tạ Hiện & Lương Ngọc Quyền, Hoan Kiem Ward.” English-speaking guides simplify navigation.

• Safety: Watch for pickpockets in crowded spots like Tạ Hiện; 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” (thank you); join locals in toasting “Mốt, hai, ba, zô!” Tip vendors $0.50–$2 (12,500–50,000 VND). Respect seating etiquette in packed joints.

• Health: Drink bottled water ($0.50 or 12,500 VND); apply mosquito repellent. Pace bia hơi to avoid overindulgence due to its low ABV.

Our sustainable tours showcase Hanoi’s bia hơi culture:

• Hanoi Food Eco-Tour ($50–$80/person, 1 day): Cyclo ride to Tạ Hiện Corner or Hải Xóm during evening, bia hơi tasting with snacks, Đồng Xuân Market visit. Includes English-speaking guide, cyclo.

• Hanoi Cultural Food Tour ($100–$150/person, 2 days): Bia Hơi Ngọc Hà, Duong Thanh, Ngoc Son Temple, cooking class, homestay ($20–$50/night). Includes meals, guide.

• Hanoi & Son Tay Immersion ($250–$400/person, 3 days): All top bia hơi spots, Son Tay Citadel, Ba Vi National Park, 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

Bia Hơi Hà Nội, one of the world’s cheapest beers at $0.20–$0.50 per glass, offers priceless value and quality, embodying Hanoi’s vibrant street culture. Its crisp, fresh taste, crafted daily with rice and served in eco-friendly recycled glasses, delivers an authentic Hanoian experience that transcends its modest price. From the lively chaos of Tạ Hiện Corner to the serene calm of Trúc Bạch, Hanoi’s top bia hơi spots showcase the city’s communal spirit. Legend Travel Group’s Hanoi Tours guide you to the finest bia hơi experiences, ensuring a sustainable Hanoi Travel journey filled with cultural and sustainable allure. Whether toasting “zô!” in the Old Quarter or sipping by Hoan Kiem Lake, bia hơi Hà Nội promises an unforgettable adventure. Don’t miss out—browse our featured tours and book your Hanoi beer journey today!
Ready to taste Hanoi’s iconic Bia Hơi Hà Nội? Reserve your sustainable tour with Legend Travel Group and embark on an unforgettable beer adventure!

Author Bio: Written by Tony Bùi, with over 20 years of experience in the travel industry, guiding 100,000+ travellersacross Southeast Asia. This guide draws from firsthand insights, guest feedback from Legend Travel Group surveys.