Photo: Google
Photo: Google
Photo: Google
Kem Từ Liêm
$Ice Cream
🕑 30-45 minutes👶 Best for all ages, from toddlers to teens. Young children love the variety of colorful homemade flavors, while older kids can be adventurous trying unique Vietnamese ice cream tastes like green tea, taro, or coconut.🧡 Saved by 5 families
About
Kem Từ Liêm is a charming local ice cream shop in Hanoi's Từ Liêm district where families can enjoy homemade Vietnamese ice cream flavors in a relaxed outdoor setting. This neighborhood gem offers an authentic taste of local culture at budget-friendly prices, making it a perfect sweet treat stop while exploring Hanoi with children.
Highlights
- ✓Authentic homemade Vietnamese ice cream flavors not typically found in tourist areas
- ✓Budget-friendly prices perfect for families traveling on a budget
- ✓Outdoor seating where kids can enjoy treats while parents relax
- ✓Opportunity to experience a genuine neighborhood hangout spot where local families gather
- ✓Unique tropical and Asian-inspired flavors like durian, avocado, and sweet corn alongside classic options
Pro Tips
- 1.Bring cash in Vietnamese dong, as small local shops like this rarely accept credit cards. Budget about 20,000-30,000 VND per serving (around $1 USD).
- 2.Visit during late afternoon or early evening (4-7pm) when the weather cools down and locals gather, giving your family an authentic neighborhood experience.
- 3.Don't be shy to ask for tastes before ordering. Point to flavors you're curious about, as staff may have limited English but are usually happy to help.
- 4.The outdoor seating can get warm during midday, so bring wet wipes and napkins for sticky hands as Vietnamese ice cream can melt quickly in the heat.
- 5.Try combining this stop with a visit to nearby Thang Long Imperial Citadel or West Lake area to make a full afternoon outing.
Best Time to Visit
Visit in late afternoon (4-6pm) on weekdays to avoid weekend crowds and intense midday heat. The cooler months from November to March offer the most comfortable outdoor seating weather, though ice cream is enjoyed year-round in Hanoi.
What to Know
This is a budget-friendly spot with ice cream typically costing under $2 USD per serving. Outdoor seating is casual and may have limited shade, so plan accordingly for hot days.
Seasonal Notes
Open year-round, with ice cream being especially popular during Hanoi's hot season from May to September. The shop may have extended hours during Vietnamese holidays like Tet (Lunar New Year, usually January or February) when families are out celebrating.
Nearby Eats
Explore local street food stalls in the Từ Liêm area for kid-friendly Vietnamese dishes like pho (noodle soup) or banh mi sandwiches, or head to West Lake district about 15 minutes away for more international dining options.
More Activities Near Từ Liêm
Sports
Trường Tiểu học Từ Liêm - Community Sports Complex
$
This local community sports complex attached to a Hanoi primary school offers authentic Vietnamese neighborhood culture alongside family-friendly swimming and recreational facilities. English-speaking families will find an affordable, less touristy alternative to hotel pools, with opportunities to interact with local families during public access hours.
Library
Thư viện Từ Liêm
Free❤️14
Thư viện Từ Liêm offers traveling families a quiet, air-conditioned respite from Hanoi's bustling streets while introducing children to Vietnamese library culture. The dedicated children's section features interactive learning activities and reading programs that welcome young visitors, making it an enriching free activity perfect for budget-conscious families exploring the city.
Park
Công viên Thạch Cầu
Free❤️16
Công viên Thạch Cầu offers families a peaceful escape from Hanoi's bustling streets with well-maintained playground equipment and plenty of green space for children to run and play. This free neighborhood park is perfect for budget-conscious travelers looking for a safe, local experience where kids can burn energy while parents relax on the jogging paths or enjoy a picnic under the shade trees.
Cafe
Café Bé Mầm
$❤️6
Café Bé Mầm is a welcoming oasis for traveling families in Hanoi's Từ Liêm district, offering a dedicated play area where kids can burn energy while parents enjoy Vietnamese coffee and light refreshments. The cafe understands the needs of families on the go, providing a comfortable space where children can play with toys and games while adults relax, making it an ideal pit stop during your Hanoi adventures.