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The Perfect Hanoi Itinerary (2024) Travel Guide for Vietnam’s Capital

August 1, 2023 by Bino 1 Comment

Vietnam’s capital may be known more than anything for its chaotic and motorbike-filled streets but I have to say that Hanoi remains to be one of my favorite Southeast Asian capitals. There is something about the city that always puts it at the back of my mind as a destination I’d want to visit again and again, with a different Hanoi itinerary each time. It may be the excellent food or the fascinating history or simply the pulsating and distinctively Vietnamese energy. Whatever it is, each visit to Hanoi always leaves me with new finds and restaurants that I won’t hesitate recommending to friends.

For those looking to visit, I have come up with this suggested Hanoi itinerary. Depending on whether you intend to visit Ha Long Bay and Tam Coc, this itinerary is something you can execute in as little as 2 days if you’re coming here only for the weekend or up to 4 days if you intend to make it a short getaway.

the pulsating energy of hanoi

General Tip: In Hanoi, a common scam occurs with some taxi drivers at the airport where they claim the hotel you booked has closed. This is a trick to get you to stay in another hotel where they can get commission. To avoid this, you can ask your hotel to pre-book your transport or you can book one yourself here .

Heading to Central Vietnam? Check out this suggested itinerary for Hue, Hoi An and Da Nang

Table of Contents

Day 1 – Old Hanoi

Hoan kiem lake.

hoan kiem lake

Start your Hanoi itinerary by obtaining your bearings at the Lake of the Returned Sword (Hoan Kiem Lake), the focal point where touristic activities in Hanoi are concerned. How the lake came about is the stuff of legends. In the morning, you will find locals doing tai-chi at the park encircling the lake. There is a pagoda in the middle of the lake – an often photographed structure – as well as the Ngoc Son Temple in the northern side which you can cross over to via a red bridge. Opening hours: 8:00 to 18:00, daily / Admission: 30,000 dong (adult)

French Quarter

french quarter of hanoi

Afterwards, head east towards the French Quarter . You will find this area of Hanoi calmer, with plenty of small parks, charming turn-of-the-century hotels as well as buildings dating from the French period such as the post office. The neoclassical Hanoi Opera House in particular, is a fine example of the French influence. The building was modeled after the Palais Garnier in Paris.

Old Quarter

hanoi old quarter

By early afternoon, the cramped streets of the Old Quarter starts to buzz with life and that’s a great time to head there to see how local commerce is done. The area offers a beguiling mix of stores housed in old shophouses. The streets are named according to the types of shops found there – there is a street for jewelry (Hang Bac); a street for shoes (Hang Dau) and so on. You can easily spend the entire afternoon here, which is not a bad idea. Bach Ma Temple , said to be the oldest in Hanoi, is located here. Make sure to stop by Cha Ca La Vong (daily 11AM to 2PM, 5PM to 9:30PM) for lunch.

souvenirs along the old quarter of hanoi

For cheap souvenirs, head to Dong Xuan Market or head to Tired City for some cool and totally non-kitschy t-shirts, scarves, postcards and art prints made by local artists. They have a few outlets but the biggest one is in Hang Gai.

If shopping is not your thing, you can check out some really local experiences such as conical hat making, calligraphy, pottery and even coffee appreciation with Backstreet Academy . For foodies, you can go on a 3-hour food tour of the Old Quarter where you get to visit various eateries specializing in different dishes.

egg coffee from loading t cafe

In the late afternoon, you can head out of the Old Quarter and head southwest to see the imposing St. Joseph’s Cathedral with its neo-gothic façade. Within its vicinity are a number of charming cafes. Loading T Cafe (daily 8AM to 6PM), set in a crumbling mansion, is particularly atmospheric for its vintage interiors as well as semi-open balcony that overlooks the street. Go for a cup of Hanoi’s famous egg coffee which is made with whisked egg white, condensed milk and a little bit of sugar for a truly frothy coffee experience!

Day 2 – Monumental Hanoi

Imperial citadel.

hanoi citadel

The Imperial Citadel of Thang Long (daily except Monday, 8AM to 5PM) is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is open to the public. There isn’t much to see here these days so I would only rate it as an optional stop. But if you ever decide to make a visit, try to combine it with the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum as it’s within the same area.

Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum

ho chi minh mausoleum

Try to beat the queues and venture to Ho Chi Minh’s Mausoleum in the morning (weekdays are better). It’s free to enter. Do note that the venue is closed on Mondays and Fridays. Opening hours: 7:30 to 10:30 / Admission: Free

Presidential Palace and One Pillar Pagoda

presidential palace of hanoi

From here, it’s a short walk to the Presidential Palace , Ho Chi Minh’s Stilt House as well as the One-Pillar Pagoda . The latter’s exceptionally small size makes it one of the most iconic tourist attractions in Vietnam. As there is a good number of tourist attractions within the area, it’s often crowded here so try to avoid the weekend and public holidays if possible. Opening hours: 8:00 to 17:00, daily

Lunch at Quan An Ngon

quan an ngon

It would be midday by the time you finish, just in time to take a cab ride to Quan An Ngon (daily, 7AM to 9:30PM) for lunch. The venue takes you on a quick culinary tour of Vietnam. While it’s possible to order from the menu, there are stalls that allow you to have a peek at various dishes before you order. If you have a limited amount of time to spend in Vietnam, I’d recommend coming here to allow you to quickly sample the country’s varied specialties in one sitting.

Temple of Literature

temple of literature

From Quan an Ngon, it’s around a 10 minute walk to the Temple of Literature . The spread of Confucianism in Vietnam is perhaps never more apparent than here. During imperial times, only the most gifted scholars were able to study here and the venue offers a good peek of life in the imperial era. The sprawling complex is filled with courtyards, pavilions and ponds and showcases the extent of Chinese influence in Vietnam. Opening hours: 8:00 to 17:00, daily / Admission: 30,000 dong (adult)

Shopping and Cafes at Tay Ho

tran quoc pagoda

Spend the rest of the afternoon exploring the chic district of Tay Ho or West Lake, one of the up and coming neighborhoods of Hanoi filled with plenty of local designer boutiques, some of the city’s best international restaurants as well as hipster cafes. Aside from being Hanoi’s expat enclave, many dining and drinking establishments also choose to set up shop here due to the lakeside views. The Tran Quoc Pagoda which is found in a small peninsula jutting out from the narrow strip of land separating West Lake and Truc Bach Lake, makes for a picturesque sight early in the morning or towards sunset when the calm waters create a mirror reflection. Otherwise, for a great bird’s eye view of the twin lakes, Summit Lounge – the rooftop bar of the Pan Pacific Hanoi – is the place to go.

Sky High Views at Sky Lotte Observation Deck

sky lotte observation deck

For a bird’s eye view over Hanoi, you can head to Lotte Center for the Sky Lotte Observation Deck . At 65 floors up, you can spot some of the city’s landmarks from the viewing gallery. A highlight here is the Skywalk where visitors get to walk on the floor is made of glass. Best time to visit is around 5 to 6PM – it’s a great place to catch the sunset. You can get discounted tickets here .

Home-style Dinner at Tam Vi

When the Michelin Guide did its inaugural awarding of Michelin stars in 2023, one of the first establishment to earn the accolade in Hanoi was Tam Vi (11AM to 2:30PM/5PM to 9:30PM) – a traditional restaurant serving home-style meals hidden in an alley off Nguyen Thai Hoc. Star dishes here include Crab Soup with Spinach, Vietnamese Ham with Periwinkle Snails as well as the Caramelized Pork with Egg. This is a worthwhile dinner venue as the cuisine is decidedly Northern Vietnamese and quite different from what you’ll get in Ho Chi Minh City or Da Nang. Reservations are recommended. I tried reserving for a same-day table and could only get a slot at 8PM.

Day 3 – Ha Long Bay & Other Excursions

Ha long bay (day trip or overnight option).

ha long bay

Most people who visit Hanoi also make their way to Ha Long Bay . For booking of these tours, you can check out Vietnam tours which offers various excursions from Hanoi. While going to Ha Long Bay is practically a “yes” for most, the main decision you’d likely be facing is whether you should stay overnight in Ha Long Bay or just make it a day trip?

An overnight stay in Ha Long Bay will definitely enable you to visit more spots and you can climb the jagged peaks of some of the islands as well on a longer cruise to get a bird’s eye view of the bay (for example, in Titop Island). This is something you would not be able to do on a day trip though if you are really lacking in time, there’s little other choice.

If you decide to go for a day trip, you can expect a few hours’ cruise along the bay, a seafood lunch, some time for kayaking and exploring a cave called Thien Cung Cave. You can book the Ha Long Bay day tour here .

If you decide to go for an overnight cruise, you can expect the same highlights from the day tour plus around 2 more caves, a nice view point from Titop Island, an additional dinner and breakfast plus a likely cooking class.

Tam Coc / Hoa Lu

If you have already been to Hanoi before and are looking for a different day trip option, a journey through the river valleys of Tam Coc / Hoa Lu is also worthwhile. The landscape is lush and the experience is quite fun as you ride a small bamboo boat down the river surrounded by limestone rock formations. Aside from the boat ride, a typical day tour includes climbing up Mua Cave for a scenic view of the river, surrounding rice fields and mountains.

Perfume Pagoda

A third option for excursions originating from Hanoi is the Perfume Pagoda . Situated some 60km away from Hanoi, the Perfume Pagoda is one of the country’s most important religious sites. To get here from Hanoi, travelers will need to take a roughly 70 minute car ride to a village followed by a 45 minute or so boat ride down the Yen River to a temple complex. From here, a path leads to another temple as well as a cable car station.

perfume pagoda

Visitors can either take the cable car or hike up to the Perfume Pagoda itself which is situated in a cave. The entrance to the cave is rather dramatic – it is said to resemble a dragon’s mouth and is decorated with Chinese text.

A typical Perfume Pagoda day tour includes round trip transport from Hanoi, a guide and lunch but not the cable car ticket as it is up to the visitor’s discretion whether they’d want to hike or take the cable car. You can book this tour here .

Travel Tips for Hanoi

In this age of uncertainty, you might wish to get travel insurance. If you reside in Singapore, check out Starr Travelead , one of the cheapest travel insurance. They have a promotion that comes with S$10 cash rebate that helps to offset the insurance cost.
Do note that Hanoi has a pronounced winter season from November to February. A jacket would come in handy. If you visit during these months, there’s a possibility you might not even see any sunshine. On the other hand, July and August is a very humid time in Hanoi. Even if it just says 30 to 32 degrees celsius in the thermometer, you’ll sweat buckets.
You can pay in USD in some places including shops, restaurants and other tourist-oriented establishments. This does not apply to the small eateries or groceries. Most hotels will be able to change USD to Vietnamese Dong at competitive rates.
For those who constantly need to be online, you can purchase local sim cards upon arrival at the airport.

Where to Stay in Hanoi

I’ve been to Hanoi twice and a hotel I can personally recommend is the La Sinfonia del Rey Hotel which conveniently overlooks Hoan Kiem Lake. Rooms are incredibly sleek and I found the clouds painted on the room’s ceilings to be quite relaxing. For a slightly cheaper option, you can check out La Mejor Hotel located in the Old Quarter. Alternatively, you can use this aggregator HERE to compare for the best prices for hotels in Hanoi with just one look.

Getting Around: GRAB is a cheap, safe and reliable way to get from point to point within Hanoi. Most trips between the various city attractions should not cost more than $5.

Entry Requirements: Certain nationalities may require a visa to enter Vietnam. It’s better to check beforehand. For visa services, you can try Vietnam Visa .

Reader Interactions

Older posts.

November 4, 2017 at 8:35 pm

Thanks for sharing the good travel blog about two days itinerary for Vietnam. It is really beautiful country, You must visit one time in your lifetime.

The PERFECT 3 Days in Hanoi Itinerary [2024 Guide]

Last Updated: January 22, 2024

If you’re planning a trip to the Vietnamese capital, read on for the perfect itinerary on how to spend 3 days in Hanoi.

To say that Hanoi has had a tumultuous history is a vast understatement. French colonialism, Japanese occupation, and the war with the United States all resulted in massive damage to the city.

After the devastation of the American War (as it’s known here), Hanoi once again became the capital of a unified Vietnam.

These days, it’s a bustling capital city that’s home to nearly 8 million people.

The city known as the Paris of the East has a lot to offer travellers. With 3 days in Hanoi, you can check out the museums, parks, lakes, markets, and much more.

In between all of the sightseeing, you can fill up on mouth-watering Vietnamese food.

The country’s famous coffee will keep you going during the day, while its dirt cheap draught beer will fuel your nights out.

Now that you know a bit about the city and travelling there, let’s get this show on the road with a Hanoi 3-day itinerary.

READ MORE: Be sure to include these awesome things to do in Hanoi during your visit!

Table of Contents

Morning – Free Walking Tour

Midday – lunch and coffee break in the old quarter, afternoon – hoan kiem lake, evening – dong xuan market, night – bia hoi, 8am – say hello to uncle ho at ho cho minh mausoleum, 9am – ho chi minh museum and stilt house, 11am – one pillar pagoda, 11:30am – tran quoc pagoda in west lake, afternoon – choose your own adventure, temple of literature, thang long imperial citadel, check out a museum, water puppet theatre, night – old quarter bar hopping, 8:30am – museum of ethnology, 10am – vietnam women’s museum, 12pm – hoa lo prison, 1pm – take a cooking class, the best time to visit hanoi, getting around hanoi, vietnam, best budget accommodation – hanoi central backpackers hostel, best mid-range accommodation – golden legend diamond hotel, best luxury accommodation – sofitel legend, best restaurants in hanoi, vietnam, how to spend a perfect 3 days in hanoi itinerary.

Strap yourself in and down a couple of Vietnamese coffees for an epic travel itinerary for Hanoi!

Here’s what I recommend you get up to on your first day here.

The best way to kick off your 3 day Hanoi itinerary is joining a free walking tour. Spending a few hours exploring the city on foot is a fun and informative way to start your trip.

Local students lead these tours to practice their English and share their city with visitors. It’s the perfect introduction to the city and a great way to meet people.

There are a few different options for free walking tours. The most popular is the half-day tour of both the Old Quarter and the French Quarter. Tours start at either 9 AM or 2 PM.

While the Old Quarter tours are indeed free, it’s customary to leave a tip for your guide if you enjoy the tour.

Even though the tour will give you your bearings and a good introduction, I highly recommend getting lost in Hanoi’s Old Quarter at some point during your trip!

If you prefer a personal guided tour of the Old Quarter, check out this one on Klook . It gets rave reviews!

READ MORE: Check out our complete guide to travelling in Vietnam !

That walking tour is sure to leave you hungry, which is a good thing. After all, one of the best parts about visiting Hanoi in 3 days is indulging in the local cuisine!

The Old Quarter is full of street food vendors and local restaurants.

Whether it’s a banh mi sandwich from a street corner or a piping hot bowl of pho , you can’t go wrong with Vietnamese grub.

Best of all, eating out is super cheap here. Even if you eat out for every meal during your 3 days in Hanoi itinerary, you still won’t break the bank.

Seriously – it’s possible to fill up for just a buck or two here in the Old Quarter!

If you’re feeling a bit sleepy after the tour and lunch, Vietnamese coffee is just what the doctor ordered.

My recommendation is to find a cafe with a terrace so you can order up a cup and watch the chaos of the city unfold on the busy streets below.

Even though you’ll see it on the walking tour, it’s worth it to do some solo exploration of Hoan Kiem Lake near the Old Quarter.

The name means Lake of the Returned Sword, and there’s an interesting legend behind it…

As the story goes, a god sent a special sword to the emperor Ly Thai To that he used to defeat the invading Chinese. One day when he was boating on the lake, a turtle came and asked for the sword back.

The emperor returned the sword to the turtle, hence the name of the Hoan Kiem Lake. There’s even a Turtle Tower out in the lake in honour of the legend!

There’s plenty to do around the Hoan Kiem Lake, including taking a walk on the Rising Sun Bridge over to the Jade Mountain Temple . It’s a good place to relax for a bit after a busy day.

Perhaps the most enjoyable aspect of Hoan Kiem Lake, though, is the epic people watching. Young Vietnamese kids rip it up on their skateboards while the elders practice a bit of tai chi .

On a lap around the lake, we saw couples taking wedding photos and a band shooting a music video among other things.

Taking in the sights around the lake is definitely a must on your 3 days in Hanoi.

If you enjoy perusing local markets when you travel, then you’ll definitely want to check out Dong Xuan . This is the largest covered market in the city and it sells just about everything under the sun.

Housed in a 4-story Soviet building, this sprawling market has clothing, souvenirs, electronics, flowers, and even pets.

There’s also a wet market area where you can buy fresh produce, fish, meat – you name it.

If you’re spending 3 days in Hanoi over the weekend, stick around here to check out the night market that goes on in the street.

It’s a great place to sample more local food and catch some cultural performances.

After a very busy start to your 3 day Hanoi itinerary, it’s time for a drink! While you can find fancy cocktail bars here, I recommend starting your evening off with some bia hoi .

If you’ve never heard of bia hoi before, it’s a crisp, light beer that’s ubiquitous in Vietnam.

Kegs are delivered to small bars daily, so it’s always fresh.

In addition to being rather refreshing, bia hoi is also incredibly cheap. A glass of it usually costs about USD$0.25.

Order up a few of these and some snacks and you’ll only spend a couple of dollars.

Nightlife in Hanoi is a bit tame, as things shut down around midnight.

That’s not a bad thing, though, because we still have a lot to pack in to your 3 days in Hanoi!

Hope you didn’t drink too many bia hois last night, because we have a big day planned for today!

This wouldn’t be a proper guide on what to do in Hanoi in 3 days without including Uncle Ho. That is, Ho Chi Minh – the beloved revolutionary and politician who served as president of North Vietnam.

If you’re so inclined, you can visit the preserved body the famous leader at the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum.

Vietnamese people line up in droves every day to pay their respects to the former leader.

Whether you decide to actually go inside or not, it’s still worth it to check out the building and see the crowd lined up with their flowers.

You can also see a changing of the guard ceremony here in the morning.

One thing you should definitely add to your 3 days in Hanoi itinerary is a trip to the nearby Ho Chi Minh Museum.

The museum is full of artifacts and photographs detailing the life of Uncle Ho. It also has some rather odd exhibits, such as one with giant plastic fruit.

I’m not sure what that has to do with Ho Chi Minh, but it’s interesting nonetheless!

You can complete the Ho Chi Minh trifecta by visiting his former stilt house .

Head to the Presidential Palace’s visitor entrance to follow the path here to see the gardens, pond, and the famous house.

While you’re in the area, you might as well make a quick stop at the One Pillar Pagoda. This Buddhist temple was built to resemble a lotus – the national flower of Vietnam.

It’s a beautiful temple and all, but the crowds here can be overwhelming.

After dealing with them all morning, you’ll likely make this a short stay just for the nice photo opp.

Just a 30 minute walk from One Pillar Pagoda is Tran Quoc Pagoda.

It is more than 1500 years old and is the oldest Buddhist temple in Hanoi. Tran Quoc Pagoda is located on a small island in Hanoi’s West Lake.

It is a picturesque landmark in Hanoi. The sight of Tran Quoc Pagoda reflecting in the West Lake is a huge draw for photographers.

READ MORE: Check out our guide to all the epic things to do in Vietnam !

After grabbing some lunch and a coffee in the area, it’s time to choose your own adventure!

That’s right, folks – there are lots of options for what to do in Hanoi with 3 days. So many that you just can’t fit them all in.

Here are a few ideas for how to spend the afternoon on your 2nd day in the Vietnamese capital:

This Confucian temple is definitely one of the most famous sights in Hanoi. You’ll know immediately by the swarms of tourists here.

Built back in 1070, this was the site of the first university in Vietnam. Over the centuries, thousands upon thousands of the country’s finest scholars have passed through here.

Around the beautiful temple grounds, you’ll see lots of stone turtle steles with names engraved on them.

This honour was reserved for only the most successful scholars.

Chances are you’ll also see Vietnamese students, who flock here to pray for good grades.

Another option is the Imperial Citadel. Dating back to the 11th century, this became the 900th UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2010.

The Imperial Citadel was the centre of political power in Vietnam for nearly 13 centuries. Unfortunately, much of it was destroyed in the late 19th century.

Excavation efforts have been ongoing and there’s quite a bit you can see here now. Plus, tickets only cost about $1.50 so it’s well worth it just to check the place out.

In this part of Hanoi, Vietnam, there are a few different museums you could check out.

One is the Vietnamese Military History Museum where you can see old equipment like fighter jets and tanks. Anyone interested in Vietnam military history can broaden their minds here.

After the Vietnam Military History Museum, check out the Vietnam Fine Arts Museum.

Set in a 3-story colonial building, it features art from a wide range of historical periods.

This is the premier art museum in all of Vietnam so it’s well worth visiting.

After another yummy dinner of Vietnamese food, head to the Thang Long Theatre . Here you can catch a performance of traditional water puppetry, an art form that dates back to the 11th century.

Although the show is entirely in Vietnamese and you won’t understand any of it, this is still a fun way to kick off your evening.

Plus, tickets to the Water Puppet Theatre only cost about $3 so why not?

It’s been a jam-packed 3 days in Hanoi itinerary so far. If you’ve got any gas left in your tank, night two is the perfect time for some cheeky bar hopping in the Old Quarter.

Kick the night off with a few cheap bia hois in the street then just see where the night goes.

You may end up sipping cocktails on a rooftop, dancing to live music, or singing your heart out at karaoke. Anything can happen in Hanoi’s Old Quarter!

You’ve almost made it to the end of our Hanoi itinerary! You’re doing well, but it’s not over yet.

If you didn’t stay out partying too late, you’ll want to start your third and final day off at the Museum of Ethnology.

This museum is quite the hike from the Old Quarter but it’s well worth it.

Did you know that Vietnam is home to 54 different ethnic groups? It’s OK… I didn’t, either. This museum will school you on them all with some fascinating exhibits.

While there’s a lot to see and learn inside the museum, the outside area alone makes it worth the trip.

Here you’ll find replica houses from all across the country.

Perhaps you stayed out a bit too late and had a few too many the night before. It’s alright. If you don’t feel like travelling across the city, you can just visit the excellent Women’s Museum near the lake.

This is a very comprehensive and impressive museum that focuses on the role of women throughout the country’s history.

You can easily spend a few hours here taking it all in.

One place that’s included on just about every Hanoi 3 day itinerary is the Hoa Lo Prison.

Ironically known as the “Hanoi Hilton,” this was built by the French colonists to hold political prisoners.

During the war with the US, the prison was used to house POWs.

One of the most famous guests at the Hanoi Hilton was the late John McCain – former US Senator and presidential candidate.

After spending 3 days in Hanoi feasting on amazing Vietnamese food, why not learn how to make it yourself?

With your last afternoon in town, you can take a cooking class !

BONUS – Booking ahead of time ensures you won’t miss out on the tour, and get the best price too! And just for NOMADasaurus readers, if you use the Klook discount code “NOMADS10” on the website when checking out, you’ll get $10 off your first booking!

Most cooking classes include a market tour where you’ll pick out the freshest ingredients.

Then it’s off to the kitchen to prepare some famous Vietnamese dishes.

Best of all, you’ll get to bring the recipe and your newfound cooking skills home to impress your friends and family!

Hanoi Itinerary Travel Guide

Now that you know what to do with 3 days in Hanoi, I’m going to share with you a bunch of other tips.

If you want to know where stay, when to visit and how to get around, read on….

Since it’s in Southeast Asia, you might think that it’s warm all the time in Hanoi. That’s actually not true, as winters can get quite chilly here.

Between December and February temperatures can get down to 10 degrees Celsius.

On the other hand, summer in Hanoi can be super hot with temperatures hitting 40 from time to time. This is also the rainy season, so you can expect frequent downpours.

The best time to visit Hanoi is either in the spring between March and April or in the fall between October and November.

In these months you’ll have the best chance of pleasant temperatures and clear skies.

When planning your 3 days in Hanoi itinerary, you’ll also want to check the calendar of Vietnamese holidays.

The most important one is Tet, which is the local New Year.

Tet is the Lunar New Year, which is also celebrated in China. At this time, travelling in Vietnam can be quite intense. Tickets sell out well in advance and places are packed with people on the move.

For visitors, the best ways to get around Hanoi are on foot or by taxi.

There’s no metro system here and the bus system can be quite confusing if you don’t understand Vietnamese.

If you’re staying in the Old Quarter, you can walk to most points of interest. You might need the occasional taxi to get to more far-flung places.

Even though they have meters, many drivers will try to negotiate a flat fare with you.

There’s no more Uber in Hanoi (I know – sad face), but you can download Grab, which is a similar app.

You must have a local phone number to use this service, though.

One very Vietnamese way to get around is by xe om (motorbike taxi). You just hop on the back of their bike and go, which is nice for weaving in and out of the chaotic traffic.

Once again, you may have to negotiate the fare in advance.

There are also cyclos all over the city, which are pedicabs that seat two people.

The cyclo drivers here are notorious for quoting inflated prices and ripping tourists off, so I’d skip this unless you really want the experience!

Where to Stay in Hanoi, Vietnam

There’s really not a whole to say on this topic, as a majority of travellers choose to stay in the Old Quarter and for good reason.

You have everything you need here and it’s a fun place to base yourself.

There are tons of options for accommodation, shopping, dining, and nightlife in this area.

Staying here, you can easily access Hoan Kiem Lake as well as many great markets and museums.

Other options include Ba Dinh, which is where you’ll find many of the most popular attractions in the city.

Staying here makes it easy to visit Ba Dinh Square and all the landmarks that surround it.

If you’re looking for a bit of peace and quiet in this bustling city, the lakeside Truc Bach neighbourhood is a good choice.

There are lots of awesome restaurants and bars in this very scenic part of the city.

If you’re looking for a great option on a budget in Hanoi, then check out the Hanoi Central Backpackers Hostel .

You can score a bed in a dorm here for as little as $6 a night, so you’ll have more cash for sightseeing and going out.

This is also a super fun hostel to stay at. They host nightly events like quizzes and pub crawls.

They also organize the famous trip to Castaways Island in Halong Bay and other awesome travel experiences.

Perhaps a dorm in a party hostel isn’t exactly your vibe. Thankfully there are lots of great mid-range hotels in Hanoi, like the Golden Legend Diamond .

Located in the bustling Old Quarter, this hotel puts you right in the middle of all the action.

Rooms here are comfortable and well-equipped, and you also get a nice free breakfast included.

Looking to splurge for your 3 days in Hanoi? Then check yourself into the epic Sofitel Legend .

In addition to the super fancy rooms, you also get a heated outdoor pool, a well-equipped fitness centre, and a luxury spa.

There’s a great complimentary breakfast here, and you can also indulge in afternoon tea and Happy Hour.

Essence – The current #1 restaurant in Hanoi on TripAdvisor, this place cooks up food from three different regions of Vietnam and has rave reviews.

Hoang Cuisine – This is one of the most highly ranked restaurants in the city, serving up fresh and tasty local dishes.

Hanoi Social Club – A hip cafe with healthy options, including vegan and gluten-free choices.

Bun Cha Ta – This is the place to go to try a Hanoi specialty. Bun cha is grilled pork with vermicelli noodles, spring rolls, and veggies, and it’s delicious!

Hung Snake Restaurant – If you’re up for an adventure, take a day trip out to Le Mat. Also known as “Snake Village,” you can find this restaurant cooking up snake in a variety of ways.

While all of these restaurants are great, make sure you eat at some random, unnamed street food stall at least once during your 3 day Hanoi itinerary.

You just can’t beat sitting on a plastic stool, slurping up your noodles and enjoying a cold one!

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Ultimate Hanoi Itinerary + Well-Crafted Travel Guide

May 3, 2023

Abbie Bevan

Although Hanoi may not be the largest city in Vietnam, it’s the country’s capital so is a must for any Vietnam itinerary ! Hanoi is located in the North of the country, while Ho Chi Minh City dominates the South. Hanoi is also one of the best places to start a trip through Vietnam.

Hanoi is famous for its incredible architecture, rich culture, and bustling Old Quarter. You won’t run out of things to do in Hanoi! Whether you’re looking to explore temples, eat delicious local food, or visit a museum – Hanoi has something for everyone!

Hanoi’s history dates back to the 3rd century BCE. Throughout the years it’s acted as the Vietnamese nation of Âu Lạc, part of Han China, the political center of Đại Việt, and the capital of French Indochina. This is why there’s such a mismatch of architecture and culture, which creates a truly interesting and mesmerizing city!

With so much to do, how can you possibly decide where to visit? Well, I’ve come up with the ultimate 3-day Hanoi itinerary to guarantee that you make the most of your trip! This article is packed with very useful information , from the best ways to get to Hanoi, the best places to stay, how to get around, how to plan your budget, and much more!

If you’re planning a trip to Vietnam, you will love these articles:

Vietnam 2-Week Itinerary
Vietnam 7 Days Itinerary
Vietnam Travel Planning: All You Need to Plan Your Trip

Day 3 Hanoi Itinerary: A relaxing day to end your trip full of culture, sights, and food

More tips to visit hanoi.

Read More: A Perfect 2 weeks Vietnam Itinerary

Hanoi Itinerary Overview

With a bustling population of nearly 8 million people, Hanoi is undoubtedly one of the most chaotic cities in Vietnam . Although its population may not be as large as Ho Chi Minh , it certainly feels just as busy if not more so!

Aside from the people, you’ve also got millions of motorbikes to contend with and they aren’t just restricted to the roads I’m afraid. Many of them choose to drive on the pavement so you’ll need to keep your wits about you. This is also the case if you’re planning to cross the road as they won’t stop!

Once you’ve gotten used to the craziness of Hanoi, you’ll learn to love the city! Hanoi is full of culture and charm , and many of the places you visit will leave you in awe. Not to mention Vietnam’s capital is considered to be one of the best foodie destinations in the world!

Before you head to Hanoi, it’s best to do some research before you visit – as you would with any new destination. This Hanoi itinerary is going to go through the best attractions, places to stay, and some top tips on how to make the most of your trip.

Hanoi Itinerary

Day 1 hanoi itinerary: food, markets, and plenty of walking.

The first day of your Hanoi itinerary is going to involve you walking around the city and visiting some of the best spots! Today, you’ll get to explore markets, taste delicious food, and head to one of Hanoi’s most unique attractions.

When it’s my first day in a new place, I like to just take in all the sights and smells and learn about the local culture. I like to talk to the locals if I can, and just get an idea of what’s waiting for me on my trip!

1. Spend some time exploring the Old Quarter

The Old Quarter is one of the most famous areas in the city and it’s a must for any Hanoi itinerary! If you walk north from Hoan Kiem Lake then you’ll come to the bustling streets of this area.

What’s interesting about the Old Quarter is that it dates back over 500 years. So as you can imagine there’s a unique mix of cultures, architecture, and fusion food here! As well as being one of Hanoi’s tourist hot spots, this area is also considered to be the main business hub.

Simply wandering around the Old Quarter is one of the best things to do in Hanoi. It’s full of authentic restaurants and awesome attractions including the Hanoi Tube Houses, Hanoi Bach Ma Temple, and the Night Market.

This area is a fantastic foodie destination too so you’ll want to check out this street food tour ! Your guide will take you to some of the best foodie spots in the Old Quarter where you’ll get to try a variety of local dishes. This may include rice noodle soup, traditional Vietnamese sandwiches, and steamed pancakes.

2. Wander around Dong Xuan Market

In the Old Quarter, you’ll find Dong Xuan Market which is the largest covered market in Hanoi! Covering an impressive area of 6,500 square meters there’s a lot to see at this market as you can imagine!

Dong Xuan Market has been around since the 1890s and today it attracts a variety of traders selling everything from food to fashion. Over the years, the market has been renovated several times, with the most recent renovation taking place in the 1990s when a fire nearly destroyed it!

There are three separate floors in Dong Xuan Market. These are generally separated into food which is found on the first floor, clothing, and other items on the second floor, with the third floor, which is home to children’s clothes and toys. All the items are relatively cheap here, but the vendors will expect you to bargain. This is generally the principle for most markets in Vietnam!

3. Visit St Joseph’s Cathedral

St Joseph’s Cathedral is the oldest church in Hanoi and is one of the best examples of French colonial architecture in the city. Dating back to the 1880s, this cathedral has quite the history and gets its name from the patron saint of Vietnam – Joseph!

This was one of the first buildings to be built by the French colonial government. Considering its age and the wars that have taken place in Vietnam, is still in relatively good condition. This makes it a popular historical attraction and a great place to visit in Hanoi.

You can either simply admire the wonderful architecture from outside St Joseph’s Cathedral or you can head inside. If you decide to do the latter, then you’re in for a real treat as the cathedral is full of beautiful stained-glass windows, murals, and intricate arches.

Just keep in mind that you can only go inside the church at certain hours, and this will differ depending on whether there’s a ceremony on or not!

4. Take a cooking class

One of the best ways to learn about a country’s culture is through food. For this reason, I’d recommend doing a cooking class wherever you go on your travels! As Hanoi is one of the best foodie destinations in Asia, you won’t have a shortage of options.

One of the most popular options is this small-group cooking class . It includes a visit to the local market, free and unlimited wine tasting, and pick-up and drop-off from the Old Quarter. You’ll also get to learn traditional recipes that you’ll be able to try once you get home!

There’s also this local cooking class that will teach you how to make Vietnamese dishes from scratch. Like the previous tour, you’ll get to visit a local market and shop for the ingredients you need before taking them back to the class. Then be prepared to make some of your best dishes yet!

5. Walk around Hoàn Kiếm Lake

Hoàn Kiếm is a freshwater lake that’s located in the center of Hanoi and it covers an impressive 12 hectares. It’s one of the most scenic places to visit in the city which is why it’s so popular with locals and tourists alike.

Hoàn Kiếm Lake translates to ‘Lake of the Returned Sword’ which is based on a local legend. It’s thought that heaven sent down a magic sword called ‘Heavens Will’ to help Emperor Lê Lợi protect Vietnam from Chinese invaders. Once, the Emporer won the war, it’s said that a giant golden turtle came to ask for the sword back and he dived back into the lake with it – hence the name!

There’s actually a small building in the center of the lake which is thought to be associated with this legend as it’s named ‘Turtle Tower’.

This is one of the city’s areas that comes alive in the evening. This is especially the case between Friday and Sunday as traffic is banned from 7 pm. Instead, you’ll find tons of locals having fun at this square which gives it quite the atmosphere.

6. Catch a show at Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre

Last but certainly not least, finish your first day of this Hanoi itinerary by catching a show at this unique place! The Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre is situated right by Hoàn Kiếm so it’s the natural place to visit after exploring the lakeside.

If you head to this puppet theatre you’ll get to witness a unique art form that has origins dating back over 1,000 years ago. However, some people believe the roots of this art form actually might be as old as the 11th century so there’s plenty of history here. Essentially, the theatre works by using large rods to make the puppets appear as if they’re moving across water.

At the Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre, you’ll be able to watch plays that are dedicated to ancient Vietnamese legends and myths which is really cool!

PRO-TIP: I recommend purchasing your tickets in advance for the water puppet theatre and that means you can skip the long lines, and collect your tickets quickly and easily! All the taxes, fees, and handling charges are also included if you purchase your ticket with Get Your Guide!

Day 2 Hanoi Itinerary: A day to explore the city’s most cultural and historic attractions

Start the second day of your Hanoi itinerary by heading to the city’s famous train street. You’ll then get to learn about the city’s history (and Vietnam’s for that matter) by visiting a museum, temple, mausoleum, and historic prison.

This is a day full of exploring cultural and historic attractions, and you’ll get to truly understand the history of Hanoi! There’s quite a lot to fit in for this day so make sure you get an early start!

1. Admire the iconic Train Street

Now, before I go any further it’s important to note that Hanoi’s famous Train Street has been closed by the government due to people making a nuisance of themselves on the track. You can no longer access the railway line itself and the small cafes that were once located to the side have all gone now.

That’s a real shame as you used to be able to walk along the railway, and when the trains were due to come you could watch this crazy street transform; so all the cafes would shut up shop and move their tables, and all the market stalls would magically disappear.

Although you may not be able to view the train street as you once could, this awesome motorbike tour will take you to the Train Track Cafe at the perfect time so you can witness the train coming through this famous street! You’ll also pass by Long Bien Bridge which I’ll mention later on!

2. Visit the Vietnam Military History Museum

Next up on this Hanoi itinerary is the Vietnam Military History Museum! If you’ve already been to Ho Chi Minh then you’ve likely been to the War Museum and are wondering whether to leave this place off your itinerary – well, my answer would be no!

Aside from the weaponry and machines from the United States, this museum also has a large collection of French, Soviet, and Chinese equipment. In fact, some of the artifacts here date back to the Hong Bang Dynasty which took place in 2879 BC. The most recent war depicted in this museum is the border war of 1979 against Chinese invaders!

Inside the museum, you’ll get to wander through a series of rooms and see thousands of exhibits including photographs, maps, and scale models. However, one of the most important items at the Vietnam Military History Museum is the Hanoi Flag Tower.

This Flag Tower is one of Hanoi’s symbols and it’s a national historical architectural monument. It’s thought that the tower was built in 1812 and it was an observation post to the city’s Citadel. It somehow survived the wars to come which is pretty impressive!

3. Explore the Temple of Literature

The Temple of Literature may not be one of the most well-known things to do in Hanoi but it’s not a place that you want to miss. It was built in 1070 so is around 950 years old which is an achievement in itself, considering the turbulent history that Vietnam has.

The Temple was built during the dynasty of Ly Thanh Tong and it became the country’s Imperial Academy. From there, it was known to be a prestigious school for the most academic students in the country, and these students would study there for up to seven years!

The Temple of Literature is split up into five courtyards, and each one has something special to offer. If you’ve got the time, then I highly recommend exploring each one! Not only will you get to relax and admire the incredible architecture but you’ll be walking in the footsteps of ancient scholars!

4. Head to Ho Chi Minh’s Mausoleum

Ho Chi Minh’s Mausoleum is one of the most popular attractions in Hanoi and it’s not hard to see why! If you’d not already guessed by the name, then this mausoleum is home to the body of Ho Chi Minh, who was the president of Vietnam between 1945-1969.

What’s crazy about this place is that Ho Chi Minh’s body is actually on display here, and it has been since the mausoleum was built in 1975. Although he clearly desired to be cremated, this wish was ignored, and instead, his body remained here for public view.

Ho Chi Minh’s body is encased in a glass casket and his remains seem to be perfectly preserved considering the time in which he died! You’ll only have a short time to see the body before your shuffled on, but it’s quite an eerie experience. Bags and cameras aren’t allowed inside so just keep that in mind!

5. Wander around Hoa Lo Prison

Before we dive into this one, I’m going to warn you that visiting Hoa Lo Prison isn’t for the faint of heart. This prison was used to house American Prisoners of War, and it’s a difficult place to visit.

Hoa Lo Prison used to be nicknamed the ‘Hanoi Hilton’ ironically, but ‘Hoa Lo’ means’ ‘stove’ or ‘furnace’. As you might have guessed by the name, there are records of American pilots being incinerated at this prison during the war.

The prison was originally built to hold around 450 inmates. However, during the war, it’s thought that around 2000 prisoners were kept there – many of which were POWs. Conditions were notoriously bad during this time, and upon your visit, you’ll get to see a variety of photos, artifacts, and of course – the cell blocks.

You don’t need to be part of a tour to explore the prison as it’s entirely self-guided. This means you can take your time and learn about everything that happened here.

On the last day of your Hanoi itinerary, why not have more of a relaxed day? Head to the Museum of Ethnology to learn more about the city, and then take the lift up to the Lotte Center Observation Deck to admire the epic views of Hanoi.

You’ve then got the option to visit one of the city’s famous railway bridges before ending your time in Hanoi with plenty of delicious food!

1. Visit the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology

The Vietnam Museum of Ethnology is one of the best places to visit in Hanoi. It’s the place to go if you’re looking to learn about the country’s history and ethnic groups; of which there are many!

The museum covers an impressive area of around 4 hectares and there are three main exhibition areas to explore. As you wander through you’ll get to learn about over 50 ethnic groups through a variety of displays, tribal art, and artifacts. You’ll even get to see examples of traditional houses that can be found in the villages.

Not only will you get to learn so much, but the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology is extremely cheap. Prices for an adult are around 40,000 VND ($1.70) but this will increase if you’d prefer to pay for a guide. The displays are well-presented in three different languages (Vietnamese, English & French), so it’s up to you whether you wish to pay extra for the guide.

2. Admire the views from Lotte Center Hanoi

Hanoi is an impressive city and to get the best views, you’ll want to head to Lotte Center. Here, you’ll find the Lotte Observation Deck which is located on the 65th floor of the tower. Standing at around 250m high, you’ll be treated to amazing views of the city from every angle!

Once you’ve taken the elevator up to the observation deck, there are two main areas. One section has a glass floor which is quite unnerving to stand on, but it’s definitely worth the experience.

The key thing to note with this attraction is that you’ll have to time your visit well. Hanoi is often referred to as the most polluted city in Vietnam, so naturally, you’ll encounter a lot of smog during your time here. If you head up to the observation deck when the city is covered in this fog, you’re unlikely to see anything at all.

3. Visit Long Bien Train Bridge

Next up on this Hanoi itinerary is Long Bien Train Bridge! It was the first steel bridge to be constructed in the city and was built between 1899-1902 by the French. Originally the bridge was named after a governor-general in Indochina, but it was renamed after Vietnam gained its independence.

During the war with the United States, Long Bien Bridge was bombed fourteen times so it took on considerable damage. This was due to its position as it connected the two largest cities in North Vietnam. For this reason, most of its spans have been destroyed but you can still admire the ones that remain.

Trains still run over Long Bien Train Bridge but you can walk onto the bridge from the railway line. Many people choose to walk onto the tracks to explore. However, if you’re doing this you’ll need to be aware of the upcoming train times.

4. End your time in Hanoi with some delicious food

Last but certainly not least, to end your trip to Hanoi you’ll want to spend some time tasting the delicious food. This chaotic city is famous for its food, and there are a couple of dishes that you need to try! Here are a couple of my recommendations:

Banh Mi – a Vietnamese Baguette where you can often choose the fillings yourself
Pho Bo – beef noodle soup
Bun Cha – noodles with grilled pork
Banh Cuon – rice noodle bowls
Don’t forget about Caphetrung either – egg coffee!

There’s a lot of delicious food on offer and plenty of fantastic restaurants in the city. Some of the best options include Hong Hoai’s Restaurant, Bun Cha Ta Hanoi, Bách Phương Restaurant – Bún Bò Nam Bộ, and Essence Restaurant.

If you’d prefer a guided tour rather than enjoying the delicacies yourself then why not check out this food lovers’ walking tour or this small-group food tour ? Both will take you to some of the best foodie spots in the city!

Planning Your Trip to Hanoi

Arriving in hanoi.

If you’re arriving in Hanoi by air then you’ll fly into Noi Bai International Airport. This is the largest airport in Northern Vietnam. It’s around 27 km from the city, and the journey takes around 35-40 minutes by car.

The cheapest way to reach the city center is by catching the Hanoi Airport public bus. Numbers 7 and 17 connect the airport and the city center, and the bus stop is on the right side of the exit terminal. The services tend to run every 15-20 minutes but they only run between 5 am – 10 pm.

You can also grab a taxi from the airport but just be cautious of the prices!

If you’d prefer to have your transport organized in advance then you can book a private transfer . This way, you won’t have the hassle of finding a way to the city – especially if you’ve had a long flight!

Where to Stay in Hanoi

There are plenty of great areas in Hanoi but if you’re looking to stay central and be close to the main attractions, then you’ll want to find somewhere in the Old Quarter.

Not only will you find plenty of food options nearby, but you can reach many of the popular spots on foot. This will save you money on transport, and time so you can fit more in during your stay! Here are a couple of recommendations:

TOP OVERALL PICK: Bendecir Hotel & Spa

Rated: 9.2 Superb

Bendecir Hotel & Spa is one of the most beautiful hotels in Hanoi and yet its rooms are very reasonably priced! Not only that, but you’ll have access to endless facilities including a shared lounge, restaurant, bar, and concierge service.

BUDGET: Hanoi City Backpackers Hostel

Rated: 8.5 Very Good

If you’re looking for a cheap stay in Hanoi then you need to check out Hanoi City Backpackers Hostel. Here, you can choose between dorm beds and private rooms so there’s something for every budget. You’ll also get your breakfast included!

MID-RANGE: Golden Sun Hotel

Golden Sun Hotel is just a short walk from St. Joseph Cathedral so it’s in a great location for exploring the city. Boasting a shared lounge, a terrace area, an on-site spa, and a restaurant, this place has so much to offer.

LUXURY: Peridot Grand Luxury Boutique Hotel

Rated: 9.5 Exceptional

For a luxury getaway, you’ll want to check out Peridot Grand Luxury Boutique Hotel. If you decide to stay here, you’ll benefit from a rooftop terrace and pool, two on-site restaurants, three bars, and a spa!

Best Tours in Hanoi

There are plenty of fantastic things to do in Hanoi and many of them you can reach simply by walking around. Of them, you can book the tickets in advance, which you may want to do if you’re visiting the city during peak season.

To see the best of the city, you’ve also got the choice of taking a city tour. This means you won’t have to organize the transport yourself and you can simply enjoy your day. Here are some of the best options:

Hanoi Jeep Tour: Food, culture, sights & fun in an army jeep
Hanoi: Morning or afternoon city highlights tour
Private Hanoi street food walking tour
Highlights & hidden gems with locals: Best of Hanoi private tour

Estimated Price for this Hanoi Itinerary

Although Hanoi is the capital of Vietnam it’s still extremely affordable. Everything from accommodation to food in this city is very cheap, so you won’t have to worry about being on a tight budget.

You also won’t need to cook your own meals whilst visiting Hanoi as you can get hearty meals for $1-2!

An estimated cost for this Hanoi itinerary including food and drink, accommodation, entrance fees, and transport would be around $310 for two people. That’s great value for money if you ask me!

Best time to Visit Hanoi

Generally, the best time to visit Hanoi is between October – April although Autumn and Spring tend to be the most popular. Autumn falls between September to November while March to April is considered Spring.

This is when the weather is at its best but you’ll want to consider where else you’re visiting in Vietnam. The seasons differ depending on whether you’re in the North or South so if you’re planning a cross-country trip you’ll need to compromise!

The rainy season hits Hanoi between May and September, and during this time you’re likely to encounter a lot of rain! This means that technically, Northern Vietnam encounters its rainy season during the summer.

That means you’ll experience lots of rainfall paired with extremely humid and hot temperatures (sometimes up to 104°F/40°C). Unfortunately, that often leads to thunderstorms and tropical storms so just keep that in mind.

Wh at to pack for your Hanoi itinerary

A travel backpack bag for a change of clothes
Dry-fit clothes and layers are also a great idea
Some warm clothing is needed as the mornings and nights can be quite cool
Comfortable shoes
Summer dress
A pair of jeans
A rain jacket is a must any time of the year
Hiking pants
Extra socks, hat, underwear, and swimsuit if you plan to swim in the waterfall
Toiletry, toilet paper, and mirror
Personal items such as medication, flashlight, sunscreen, insect repellent, and wipes
Some snacks and a water purifier bottle

The traffic in Hanoi can get pretty crazy and scooters will often jump on the pavement to avoid the traffic. Just watch where you’re walking, and keep an eye out for any rogue drivers!
When trying some street food in Hanoi, just be cautious about where you choose to eat. Have a look at the stall and see if there are lots of locals already there – this will let you know whether the food is good! If you’re eating meat then I’d recommend choosing somewhere that will cook your food in front of you.
Although this is a general rule in Southeast Asia in general, I’m going to reiterate it here. Whatever you do, make sure you don’t drink tap water. If you do, there’s a very high chance that you’ll get sick and that will ruin your trip.
Like in Ho Chi Minh, haggling is a common practice here in Hanoi. Just make sure you check around for prices before you buy, and bargain the price down to something that you’re willing to pay!
Although Vietnam is generally a very safe country, pickpocketing is known to occur in the big cities including Hanoi. Keep your belongings close to you, especially in popular and crowded tourist areas, and don’t flash your valuables.
If Hanoi is your first stop in Vietnam (which it is for many people) then getting your head around the cash can be overwhelming. Exchange rates fluctuate but $1 equates to around 23,000 Vietnamese Dong (VND) so you’ll have a lot of notes! Take a bit of time to just work out what’s what and you’ll feel much better when it comes to haggling and paying for food/transport.

Hanoi Itinerary Conclusion

As you’ve probably guessed by now, you won’t run out of places and activities to include on your 3-day Hanoi itinerary! Whether you’re looking to take a cooking class, visit a military museum, or wander around the markets, there’s something for every type of traveler.

Hanoi offers a mismatch of cultures due to its unique history, and this comes across in the food, architecture, and attractions. It’s a truly wonderful city, and to experience the best of it, I’d recommend spending at least three days here!

Just to mention, many people ever love or hate Hanoi (or, equally a bit of both) but in my opinion, no trip to Vietnam is complete without visiting this amazing city.

I f you’ve enjoyed this guide then here are some others that you might find helpful:

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Plan a Trip to Hanoi and Choosing What Sights to See

Choosing the best time to go, start planning, choosing what sights to see, recommendations on how to get there, how to get a vietnamese visa, choosing a tour style: privately-guided, in a group, or on your own, find the best place to stay, advice on food.

Vietnam has eased its travel restrictions from March 16, 2022. All travelers are exempt from quarantine to visit Vietnam now as long as you're fully vaccinated .

Hanoi, the capital city of Vietnam, attracts visitors with its abundance in culture, diversity of cuisine, and charming scenery (Halong Bay and rural scenery).

It's recommended to have a 2-day visit in the city or a 3-day visit around the city. But if you would really love to explore Hanoi properly, you can also stay there for 10 days.

Hanoi's tropical climate makes it suitable to visit all year round; however, the best times to visit are winter and spring, from October to March. During this time, the weather is dry and cool. From April to September, hot humid air will blanket most of the nation and rainfall is plentiful.

October to March — best time to visit

October to March is in the dry season. The weather is pleasant with sunny and cool days, but please note that it's cold in Halong Bay and Sapa during this time. If you are planning to visit there, be sure to keep warm.

What's more, late December to early January is in the peak tourist season. Lots of tourists flock to Hanoi at this time.

April to September — hot and rainy

If you don't mind the rain and humidity, April to September is also a good time to visit. The temperature will increase to 40°C (104°F) and there is a great possibility of rain, but the rainfall is just showers over a very short period of time or at night.

In this low season, tourist numbers are less and the cost is low.

During the New Year holiday (normally from later January to early February, about 1 week) and National Day (September 2nd to 3rd), most shops and scenery will shut down. The two-way migration from rural to urban areas will also result in heavy traffic jams. You should avoid visiting at this time. Hot as it is, August is the peak tourist season in Vietnam. If you would like to visit Hanoi during this month, you should make a flight and room reservation in advance.

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Spend the day exploring downtown Hanoi. But if you would like to explore Northern Vietnam around Hanoi, we would recommend 2 days for Halong Bay cruise and 3 days for Sapa trekking. Alternatively you can replace Sapa with Mai Chau, which is less-known but good for cycling with kids.

One to two days : downtown Hanoi, Hoan Kiem Lake, the Old Quarter, and museums

Three to five days : downtown Hanoi and Halong Bay, downtown Hanoi and Sapa, or downtown Hanoi and Mai Chau/Ninh Binh

Six to nine days : downtown Hanoi, Halong Bay, and Sapa, or downtown Hanoi, Halong Bay, and Mai Chau/Ninh Binh

Downtown area

See the Old Quarter via a rickshaw ride in the daytime or take a walk there in the evening
Hoan Kiem Lake, recommended in the morning
Dong Xuan Market
A water puppet show
Some historic sights: the Temple of Literature, the One Pillar Pagoda, Ho Chi Minh's Mausoleum
Interesting museums: Vietnam Museum of Ethnology, the National Fine Arts Museum, Hoa Lo Prison
Off-the-beaten-track Hanoi: Quang Ba Flower Market (best time to see it is at 5am–6am, on the way to the airport)

Surrounding areas

Halong Bay: take a cruise ship to visit various islands, take a dugout canoe, go diving, and visit a floating village
Mai Chau/Ninh Binh: explore on foot or by bike. There is a campfire party and a dinner party during the weekend at Mai Chau.
Sapa: daily market, hiking in the valley village

By airplane

Noi Bai International Airport in Hanoi is responsible for the most international routes in Vietnam. Direct flights are available from most Asian countries but some great international airlines in other countries also provide the service. For more information, please refer to How to Get to Vietnam.

By bus/train

Passengers can get into Hanoi via a daily bus from Nanning or a train.

There are two choices to get into Vietnam from China by train: a daily train going between Nanning and Hanoi, or two to four train services running daily that link Kunming and Hanoi. All train tickets need to be booked in advance and it is recommended to get these via travel agents.

By cruise ship

Many international cruise ships stop and stay at Halong Bay for 2 days. Passengers can get into Hanoi from Halong Bay.

Explore similar itineraries: 13-Day Vietnam Classic Tour with Sapa 15-Day Best of Thailand, Cambodia, and Vietnam Tour

There are three types of Vietnamese visa requirement:

Transit without a visa/visa-free

Apply for a visa in advance or Visa on arrival with approval letter

For more information, please refer to How to Get a Vietnam Visa.

It's recommended that you choose a tour guide for your journey in Hanoi. He/she can plan a unique route for you, lead you to experience the most original parts of Vietnam, and solve the problem of being stuck in traffic jams in the downtown area.

Particularly in the areas of Sapa, Mai Chau, and Ninh Binh, whose transportation systems are inconvenient, your private guide will arrange a vehicle for you, take you to the local market, and guide you to hike on a safe route.

If you go traveling in a group, it may not meet your individual needs. If you go on your own, it will take you a long time to make a plan and organize the transportation.

The best choices of accommodation are in the Old Quarter and around Hoan Kiem Lake and West Lake.

There are several advantages in the Old Quarter: convenient transportation, various restaurants, shops, a spa, and cheaply priced hotels. However, it's noisy at night and traffic jams are heavy there.

Many tourists will choose the hotels around Hoan Kiem Lake, such as Sofitel Legend, Hotel de l'Opera Hanoi, MGallery by Sofitel, and Hilton Hanoi Opera, from which tourists can enjoy the beauty of the lake. What's more, these are within walking distance of the downtown area.

Around West Lake is a new urban district. More and more hotels have been built in this district, such as the Waldorf and InterContinental hotels. Luxurious as they are, they are by no means a reflection of the original Vietnam.

You can choose the hotel according to your needs.

You can find different kinds of food in Hanoi, such as Indian, Chinese, and other Asian food as well as French and other Western food. We don't have much information about gluten-free food. If you can share your experiences about it, please contact us. Thank you!

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How to Spend 3 Days in Hanoi: Your Perfect Hanoi Itinerary

March 15, 2021

Wondering how to put together the perfect Hanoi itinerary? Vietnam’s capital seduces through the narrow lanes of its Old Quarter, poignant Ho Chi Minh mausoleum and leafy, well-heeled French Quarter.

Here’s how to spend 3 days in Hanoi, Vietnam’s atmospheric capital city.

3 days in Hanoi Itinerary for Vietnam cover image

Table of Contents

PLANNING YOUR HANOI ITINERARY

How to get around hanoi.

Most visitors stay in either the French Quarter or the Old Quarter and it’s perfectly reasonable to walk around and between the two if you’re in good health. Streets in the Old Quarter are particularly narrow and it makes sense to venture here by foot, savouring the views, the scents and the sounds.

You need to have your wits about you, though, and negotiate crossing incredibly busy roads without coordinated traffic signals. Watch and follow the crowd and keep walking at a steady pace; traffic will swerve around you.

Paperwork for Hanoi

Don’t forget that you may need to arrange a visa in advance for your trip to Vietnam. Happily, this no longer requires a visit to the embassy in most cases. You can also find services, like Byevisa.com, to help you arrange your Vietnam visa online in advance.

And don’t forget our ultimate international travel checklist to make sure you are ready to go.

To reach some of the other points of interest on this Hanoi itinerary, you may prefer to grab a taxi or hire a bike.

Motorbikes and motorbike taxis are extremely popular in Hanoi, and across Vietnam, but I would always urge caution and insist that you wear a helmet!

Buses are plentiful but you should not need them for most spots on this itinerary.

Taxis are also generally easy to come by, just ask your hotel to help with bookings and transfers and to provide the names of reputable companies.

Where to stay in Hanoi

The most captivating and well-located areas in Hanoi for visitors are the leafy French Quarter and crammed and chaotic Old Quarter.

Personally, I’d recommend a stay in the French Quarter, although the Old Quarter also oozes plenty of atmosphere. However, the streets are incredibly narrow in the Old Quarter and taxi transfers can be difficult from the airport with luggage, whereas in the French Quarter, they are easy.

A stay in the luxurious Sofitel Hotel Hanoi allows you to visit the bomb shelter from the Vietnam/American war and see the typewriter that Graham Greene used to write The Quiet American.

The Best Time to Visit Hanoi

Hanoi is further north than many imagine, and that gives it four seasons instead of simply a tropical monsoon.

Summers are hot and sticky in July and August and December brings with it a certain chill. It stands to reason, therefore, that spring and autumn offer the best weather for making the most of your Hanoi itinerary, however it also means that there isn’t really a bad time of year to visit.

Vietnam Hanoi Itinerary Travel Guide Cover Image

THE PERFECT HANOI ITINERARY: HOW TO SPEND 3 DAYS IN HANOI

If you only have 72 hours in Hanoi, spend the first two days in the heart of the city. After that, either slow down and see the unusual sides of the city or break out into the neighbouring countryside, pierced with stunning karst landscapes and UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Wondering where to eat in Hanoi? Check out this guide to my favourite restaurants in Hanoi.

DAY ONE HANOI ITINERARY

Lace up your walking shoes and cover your shoulders and knees for the temples. It’s time to start your three day Hanoi itinerary in and around some of the city’s most evocative areas. We’re going to walk you past Hoan Kiem lake and into the Old Quarter.

The turtle in Hoan Kiem Lake in Hanoi Vietnam

Ho Hoan Kiem lake

Hoan Kiem Lake forms one of the major landmarks of the city and the perfect place to start your 3 day Hanoi itinerary. Its cool, green waters ripple out from the Turtle Tower (Thap Rua) over 12 hectares in the heart of the historic quarter.

Translated, Ho Hoan Kiem means the lake of the returned sword and it’s one of my favourite legend, in part because you’ll find plenty of cute turtles all around with swords on their backs.

A man prays at Hoan Kiem lake in Hanoi Vietnam

Temple of Literature

Oh, how my heart rejoiced as a writer to see the name of this temple! The Temple of Literature, or Văn Miếu to give it its proper name, sits in a secluded, balmy green garden right in the heart of the city.

Built in 1070 during the reign of Lý Thánh Tông , this soothing complex is also home to the Imperial Academy, Vietnam’s first university.

When the Vietnamese New Year (Tet) rolls around, calligraphers gather here to write good luck wishes as gifts or home decorations.

The rest of the time, it’s a beautiful place to visit and cool down from the more frenetic parts of the city. And if you have a 100 000 dong banknote, look on the back. That’s the Temple of Literature you’re looking at.

Vietnam - Hanoi - Vegetables on back of bicycle

Hanoi Old Quarter

Walking through Hanoi’s Old Quarter swaps the serenity of the lake for a non-stop pulsation of scents, sights and sounds.

This square kilometre of street food and street business used to stand behind wooden gates until as late as the 19 th century. Previously, the area was divided between 36 artisanal guilds, with each gathered around a temple or communal dinh dedicated to the guild’s patron spirit.

Tinsel and plastic may have joined the red lacquerware and lanterns but you’ll still find streets more or less organised according to their original trade.

Thus Hang Buom mainly sells imported food and alcohol, Han Dau specialises in shoes and Hang Hom stocks its streets with wooden chests, glue, paint and varnish.

Check out Hang Quat for ceremonial fans and religious accessories and Hang Vai for fabric and bamboo ladders.

So when should you visit? Well, for this 3 day in Hanoi itinerary, we’ve suggested you walk around by day. But depending on your jet lag, you may also want to visit the night market in the Old Quarter too.

Hoa Lo Prison – The Hanoi Hilton

If you’re making good time, then consider a slight detour to the Hoa Lo Prison. Nicknamed the “Hanoi Hilton” by American prisoners of war, the complex was originally built by French colonists for political prisoners and the grim history progressed from there.

Much of the original prison has been demolished but the gatehouse remains as a museum and a memorial stands there also.

Several prominent Americans spent time here as POWs, with presidential nominee Senator John McCain likely the most well known. He spent parts of his five and a half year sentence here.

Hanoi Train Street

This is a curious diversion, buried in the Old Quarter. In essence, pictures speak louder than words. Every night at around 7pm, families bring in laundry and children as a train passes through this narrow residential area, only inches from the windows.

Please don’t add to the sense of danger by getting in the way, but it’s a curious place to wander through in the day time. Google maps may want to see the words Ngo 224 Le Duan to help you find it, but sometimes “train street” works just as well.

Sofitel, Hanoi

The French Quarter

In contrast to the Old Quarter, Hanoi’s French Quarter breathes space, leafy boulevards and well-heeled places to eat. This is the zone for government buildings, luxury hotels, ambassadors and affluent residents.

Located at the south east end of Hoan Kiem Lake, the main road Trang Tien is a busy shopping street with galleries, boutiques and bookshops.

It’s a beautiful place to spend an evening and an even more beautiful place to stay.

DAY 2 IN HANOI ITINERARY

We’ll travel a little further today on your 3 day Hanoi itinerary. Still cover ankles and knees, however, as temples and perhaps the most famous mausoleum on earth await.

Tran Quoc Pagoda

Your first stop takes you to the shores of the expansive West Lake and the Tran Quoc Pagoda. Built in the 6 th century during the reign of Emperor Ly Nam De Dynasty (544 – 548) this place has seen a lot. Not only a change of name but also location (the original was relocated from the Red River in 1615.)

The main pagoda reaches up 11 storeys to a height of 15 metres, with surrounding gardens and smaller buildings burning incense and offering shade.

Entrance is free.

Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum

For an experience unlike any other, pay a visit to the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and Museum in the Ba Dinh District.

Open to the public to pay their respects, the embalmed body of President Ho Chi Minh lies preserved in the chilled air of the central hall, protected by the military. The body lies in a glass case, surrounded by a procession of visitors and an air of silence.

If you’re not too sure about going inside, it’s still worth visiting the block-like building and outer complex: the place where Ho Chi Minh read the Declaration of Independence in 1945, establishing the Democratic Republic of Vietnam.

Queues can be long and you will need to deposit cameras in the designated cloakroom.

One Pillar Pagoda

Close to the Ho Chi Minh Memorial, you can change track completely and visit one of Vietnam’s iconic temples, the One Pillar Pagoda. The postcard pretty view is of Liên Hoa Đài, the Lotus station, originally built in 1049.

Hanoi Botanical Garden

Walk just a little further to reach the Hanoi Botanical Gardens, a beautiful release from city traffic and chilled museums.

Vuon Bach Thao, the Hanoi Botanical Gardens, cover 11 hectares in a mix of orchids, coconuts and banyan trees. If your three days in Hanoi form part of a wider trip through Vietnam, you may find this is one attraction to skip if the queues at the Ho Chi Minh museum took some time. But if 72 hours in Hanoi is all you have to see of the country, then spend time here to at least soak up some of the local flora.

Vietnam Hanoi Travel Guide for 3 days in Hanoi

Huu Tiep Lake

This small lake in a residential quarter stands out for one obvious feature: the B52 bomber wreckage jutting out of the water.

It’s a sobering reminder of the conflict known as the Vietnam War in America, and the American War on the ground in Hanoi.

Vietnam Military History Museum

Back towards the Mausoleum, stands the Vietnam Military History Museum, a collection of military artefacts and a patchwork of explanation.

It helps to read up on the history before you visit, but some signposts are in English. Don’t expect a neutral commentary, though, itself a thought-provoking experience.

Thăng Long Imperial Citadel – UNESCO World Heritage Site

Take a taxi across town to the Thăng Long Imperial Citadel, a complex of historic buildings that began life over 1000 years ago in 1011.The area served as a royal palace for centuries before the capital moved to Hué in 1810. By the 20 th century, the Japanese army used it to house thousands of captured French soldiers.

Today, most of the contents have gone but highlights include the Hanoi Flag Tower and D67 Tunnela and House.

Hanoi at night in the Old Quarter Vietnam

Evening: Dong Kinh Nghia Thuc Square

Head to the famous Dong Kinh Nghia Thuc Square and explore its accessible eateries and Vietnamese street food, while traffic swirls around.

You can also grab tickets to the famous water puppet theatre that depicts the creation of Vietnam through colourful dance and music.

Here’s why you should visit the Water Puppet Show in Hanoi.

Women showing water puppets in Hanoi Vietnam Itinerary Guide

DAY 3 HANOI ITINERARY

The capital still has plenty to offer if you’re lucky enough to have 72 hours in Hanoi or more.

However, many people dream of dashing through the karst landscapes on a day trip (although I’d always recommend an overnight stay if you can.)

I’ve listed some of the most popular options to add to your Hanoi itinerary below. There’s no way that you’ll be able to complete them all with only 3 days in Hanoi, so just pick the one that appeals to you the most.

If you are short on time, then I’d also recommend joining a tour or hiring a travel guide to help you get there and back without the stress of missed connections or wrong turns.

Vietnam Hanoi Fast moving moped in French Quarter

Spend More Time in Hanoi

Try to catch a performance and the lemon-yellow Hanoi Opera House for the evening, and spend the day between lounging by the pool and exploring the flavours of the Dong Xuan Market.

Consider taking a food tour as one of the best ways to meet people who live here during your three days in Hanoi.

Halong Bay, Vietnam

Day Trip to Halong Bay

Ah, Halong Bay. This watery UNESCO World Heritage Site is possibly one of the most beautiful natural landscapes in the world – as long as you can escape the crowds. The port where visitors clamber onto boats is fast and frenetic.

And so, while it is just about possible to get out to Halong Bay and back as part of your Hanoi itinerary, if you possibly can, I would advise you plan for an overnight stay on the water. Here’s what you can expect from a luxury Halong Bay cruise.

Another beautiful karst landscape and UNESCO World Heritage Site, this time on land. Take a trip to Trang An to try the scenic boat cave tours.

Trang An contains both the Tam Coc caves and the Bich Dong mountain pagodas.

Hang Mua Peak

Also, in Ninh Binh Province, if you’re up to climbing 500 stairs then you’ll be rewarded with a stunning view across the Tam Coc landscape.

Bai Dinh Pagoda

As southeast Asia’s largest Buddhist complex, Bai Dinh Pagoda draws quite a crowd. Resident monks move between the 500 or so carved statues of Buddha, including one that’s over 10 metres high.

Hoa Lu’s two surviving temples stand out against the Yen Ngua Mountain, with blood red lacquered pillars. It’s a good spot to mix hiking and the outdoors with a spot of culture, so wear sturdy walking shoes if this is part of your plan.

Where to eat in Hanoi

Hanoi packs a punch in a pretty small area when it comes to flavoursome food. Raucous street food eateries? Check. Refined, French-inspired delicacies? Check. Lakeside views, reminders of “that” war, and contemporary, charitable enterprises with an antipodean twist? Check, check, check.

But now, it’s time for culture through the taste of food. And it’s time for me to show you just how many different flavours thread their way through the narrow streets and waterways of Vietnam’s Hanoi.

Without further ado…

Food and Where to Eat in Hanoi

The green tangerine: the best place for quiet.

Step away from the chaos of the Old Quarter and into the soothing deep green tranquillity of the Green Tangerine. Definitely one of the Best Places to Eat in Hanoi

Step away from the chaos of the Old Quarter and into the soothing deep green tranquillity of the Green Tangerine . Food here is French with a Vietnamese twist and it’s a creative yet relaxing experience. Mains include the rich and strong marinated pigeon with coffee and cocoa but it’s the dessert menu that really stands out: try the passion fruit tart in a lightened meringue or the mellow caramel and lemon grass cake served with sesame seed ice cream. Deee-licious.

Le Beaulieu at the Sofitel Legend Metropole: The Best Place for the Past

Experience one of the Best Places to Eat in Hanoi with Le Beaulieu at the Sofitel Legend Metropole.

Elegance is the name of the game at this beautiful French colonial style restaurant . It delivers an atmosphere from a bygone age as well as food that is perfectly fresh. After dinner, stroll through the lobby to see some of the hotel’s rich historical artefacts. Graham Greene wrote his classic The Quiet American here and Charlie Chaplin, among others, also strode into town.

Banh Tom Ho Tay: The Best Place for a Daytime View

For an extravaganza of Asian food and a spectacular view across the largest lake in Hanoi, head to Banh Tom Ho Tay. One of the Best Places to Eat in Hanoi.

For an extravaganza of Asian food and a spectacular view across the largest lake in Hanoi, head to Banh Tom Ho Tay on Thanh Nien road. You’ll find page after page of local specialties, ranging from ginger squid to the ubiquitous Pho, and yet everything arrives fresh, fast and tasty. The pace of the restaurant may be fast but the view is serenity itself. It’s a mystery why more visitors don’t make the lakeside walk to reach it.

Koto: The Best Place for Doing Good

Koto has a laudable aim but that’s not the only reason for recommending it: the food is top notch too. One of the Best Places to Eat in Hanoi

Koto has a laudable aim but that’s not the only reason for recommending it: the food is top notch too. Started over 10 years ago by Jimmy Pham, a Vietnamese-Australian, Koto helps disadvantaged youth develop social and culinary skills as they train here under charitably supported apprenticeships. Although the clientele tend to be foreign, the dishes are not with zinging beef in bamboo, honeyed prawns and Bun Bo Nam Bo topped off with refreshing chilli and lime. (It’s also opposite the Temple of Literature so makes a handy refresh and refuel spot it you’re exploring the city and you’re short on time.)

Street food in the Old Quarter: The Best Place for Pulse Racing Atmosphere

Pull up a plastic seat, crouch near the floor and slurp on noodle soup and spring rolls in the Old Quarter to experience one of the Best Places to Eat in Hanoi.

Pull up a plastic seat, crouch near the floor and slurp on noodle soup and spring rolls in the Old Quarter. It’s hard to find a street that doesn’t have a place to eat with morsels sizzled and seared before your eyes. Mopeds swoosh around, chickens strut past and conversations take place at 360 degree angles as thousands of lives cram in to one small place. Just wander through the maze and pick a place that looks popular.

More on Travel in Vietnam

Travel planning.

Download your international travel checklist here and a copy of the ultimate packing guide.

MORE ON VIETNAM

Read more about the water puppet theatre in Hanoi and the hotel with the bomb shelter. Plus, of course, how to cruise gorgeous Halong Bay.

MORE ON SOUTHEAST ASIA

Combine a trip to Vietnam with nearby Thailand,Malaysia and Singapore. You will also find frequent connections to Hong Kong in China.

Hanoi Itinerary: What To Do in Hanoi, Vietnam For 1 To 5 Days

Welcome to JetSetting Fools, here you will find our best travel tips for destinations worldwide. Some of the links on this site are Affiliate Links and if you use them to make a purchase, we may earn a commission. For more information, read our Disclosure Policy .

Hanoi, Vietnam is mesmerizing. The city is brimming with historic must-see sights, an aromatic and delectable cuisine and a stimulating café culture. Honking horns, buzzing traffic and vibrant vendors are the rhythmic, pulsing soundtrack of Hanoi. It is intriguing, intoxicating…and intimidating. Planning what to do in Hanoi can be an overwhelming task – but don’t stress! Our Hanoi Itinerary includes all of the best things to do in Hanoi, Vietnam…and a few hidden gems, too.

Planning a Hanoi Itinerary

On our first trip to the city, we made no plans of what to see in Hanoi. We didn’t even have a guidebook . Our Hanoi sightseeing was highlighted by simply wandering around aimlessly. While it was a fine way to get acquainted with the city, we regrettably missed many of the best places to visit in Hanoi.

On a return trip to Hanoi, we were much better prepared. We created a plan of where to go in Hanoi that included all the top Hanoi places to visit (which we missed on our first time through!) and we delved deeper into the iconic cuisine.

The Best Hanoi Itinerary

Stone Turtle Tower on Hoan Kiem Lake in Hanoi, Vietnam

Our itinerary features the best Hanoi, Vietnam things to do, see and eat. We routed our way to Hanoi must-see sights and indulged in the local fare – and we are sharing our plan. We include all of the top things to do in Hanoi – but leave plenty of room in our plan to linger at cafes and soak in the atmosphere. Fellow travelers who want to visit Hanoi can use our itinerary to plan their custom Hanoi Travel Guide.

What To Do in Hanoi: A Day-by-Day Guide

The yellow Presidential Palace in Hanoi, Vietnam

Our Hanoi trip itinerary is perfect for travelers who want to visit Hanoi, Vietnam to see the sights, eat the food and experience the culture. We include a detailed outline for what to do in Hanoi for 4 days – plus a one-day trip from Hanoi to explore more of the region.

Formatted in a day-by-day guide that features top Hanoi things to see, we also offer alternate Hanoi itineraries, tips on where to stay and other practical travel advice.

Pro Tip : Only have 1 Day in Hanoi? We include recommendations on how to see Hanoi in a Day – and other Hanoi city tour itinerary suggestions – at the end of the article.

Hanoi Museums And Landmarks

One of our biggest frustrations while visiting museums in Hanoi – and some gated landmarks, too – is the difficulty in finding accurate opening times and prices. Many Hanoi tourist spots are closed mid-day for a lunch break, and a few are closed all day on certain days of the week.

Finding current schedules and ticket prices is not always easy, even when you visit the attraction’s official website. The misinformation can be maddening – but we chalk it all up to being part of the Vietnam experience. That said, if there is a specific sight or museum that is a must-do in Hanoi for you, we recommend referencing multiple sources to help determine the correct information.

Hanoi Tourist Map

Another struggle while sightseeing Hanoi is navigating the streets. We talk more about getting around Hanoi at the end of the post, but before getting to Hanoi, we recommend purchasing a Hanoi Map – like this one . Sightseeing in Hanoi City is much easier when you have a basic understanding of the layout (and the free Hanoi tourist maps are of little help!).

HANOI ITINERARY 5 DAYS

Old City Gate O Quan Chuong in Hanoi, Vietnam

This Hanoi, Vietnam Travel Blog post contains everything you need to plan your Hanoi trip. Save, Pin or Bookmark it so you can easily access it!

DAY ONE: MUST-SEE VIETNAM ATTRACTIONS IN HANOI OLD QUARTER

Catholic St. Joseph's Cathedral in Hanoi, Vietnam

Begin your 5 days in Hanoi in the city’s most iconic districts: The famous Old Quarter and the opulent French Quarter. Complete your city discovery with a walk around Hoan Kiem Lake – visiting sights along the way – and end your day with a Hanoi original meal.

Pro Tip : Use our Hanoi Travel Blog Post: HANOI WALKING TOURS (Walks 1, 2 and 3) for more information on the places to see in Hanoi on Day 1. Our self-guided walking tours provide more detailed sight descriptions, walking tour route maps and links for step-by-step instructions.

Top Places to See in Hanoi Old Quarter

Man pedals cyclo past Ancient House in Hanoi, Vietnam

Get an early jump on your day and start your city exploration at the Dong Xuan Market – an absolute Must-Do in Hanoi! Explore the labyrinth of stall-lined lanes that fill the 3-story market hall. Emerge from the hectic market onto the chaotic streets and make your way to the city’s historic gate, O Quan Chuong. Next, visit the city’s oldest and most famous temple, Bach Ma Temple – then make your way to the Hang Bac Temple, a hidden gem in the Old Quarter.

Stop for a cup of coffee at 39 Ta Hien Café – and order a classic Vietnamese iced coffee with sweet condensed milk. Sit on a low plastic stool outside where you can savor the coffee and atmosphere. Continue your Old Quarter discovery along Hang Bac – the Silversmith’s Street – and pop into Dinh Kim Ngan Temple along the way.

Visit the Hanoi Ancient House – a historic merchant house that has been preserved as a museum (entry fee required). Next, wander along Pho Gia Ngu market street, a shop-lined street where vendors take up sidewalk space to sell fresh herbs, vegetables and raw meat. If you are squeamish, consider skipping the market street and head to the south end of the Old Quarter to Den Ba Kieu Temple, which sits on the north end of Hoan Kiem Lake.

Places To Go in Hanoi French Quarter

Cross the red wooden bridge on Hoan Kiem Lake and visit the Ngoc Son Temple (entry fee required), then stroll south along the lake to the statue of Ly Thai To, the city’s founder, that proudly stands east of the lake. Walk through the park and past the frog fountain in Dien Hong Park to the National History Museum (entry fee required). Next, visit the most famous building in the French Quarter: The Hanoi Opera House. After admiring the historic, yellow Opera House, detour south of the French Quarter to Pho Thin for a bowl of the best Pho in Hanoi.

After lunch, pop into the posh Trang Tien Plaza Mall (if for no other reason than to cool off in the air-conditioning), then walk to the south end of Hoan Kiem Lake to the Hoa Phong Tower. If you need something sweet after your bowl of Pho, stop in S’Patisserie for a slice of cake then make your way to the west side of the lake to the Hanoi landmark church, St. Joseph’s Cathedral.

Tour the dimly lit interior of St. Joseph’s Cathedral; then walk back to the lakeside where you can enjoy the peaceful retreat at the King Le Thai To monument. Stay by the lake and walk north to the large city square, Dong Kinh Nghia Thuc. Find the hidden entrance to Vuon Pho Co Cafe (Old Town Garden Café), where you can take in the rooftop views and drink a refreshing Lime Soda.

Explore the Ancient Guild Streets

Shops in historic Old Quarter Hanoi, Vietnam

If you have the energy, discover the 36 Guild Streets of the Old Quarter; each street was once dedicated to a specific trade and named for that craft. Find the street dedicated to the silk trade and the one where they sell children’s toys. Seek out the herbal medicine street or peek into the shops selling paper votives for Buddhist rituals. Simply wander on your own or use our Guild Street Guide in our Hanoi Walking Tours blog post (Walk #3).

Dinner in Hanoi Old Quarter

Skillet of Cha Ca with fresh herbs at Cha Ca Thang Long in Hanoi, Vietnam

For dinner, sit down at one of the establishments featuring the famous Cha Ca fish dish – a menu item that originated in Hanoi. The restaurant where the dish was invented is on Cha Ca Street (along with several other shops that now make the same fragrant dish), but we recommend going to locally recommended Cha Ca Thang Long.

Alternate Dining Option : If Hanoi is not your first stop in Vietnam and you are craving a break from Vietnamese food, consider eating Western food at Pizza 4P’s or Amato Tapas. Want more food tips? Check out our Hanoi Food Guide for the best things to eat in the city!

DAY TWO: ICONIC PLACES TO VISIT IN HANOI

Mausoleum for Vietnamese President Ho Chi Minh in Hanoi, Vietnam

On Day 2 of your Itinerary for Hanoi, Vietnam, journey to the west of the Old Quarter to visit some of the top things to see in Hanoi: the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, Presidential Palace and ancient Citadel. Note: The sights visited on this day require appropriate attire; be sure to dress modestly – no tank tops, plunging necklines, bare midsections or short shorts (or bring a wrap that can be used to cover up); visitors who do not adhere to the dress code will likely be denied entry.

Pro Tip : We combined most of the Day Two Sights in our Hanoi Walking Tour Blog Post in Walk #4: Iconic Hanoi Walking Tour .

Best of Hanoi: Monuments

Historic Thang Long Imperial Citadel in Hanoi, Vietnam

Start your second day in Hanoi by touring the ancient Thang Long Imperial Citadel (fee to enter). The historic complex features structures from different periods in time – including war bunkers that were used during the Vietnam War. Military enthusiasts may want to make a stop next door at the Vietnam Military Museum, too.

After touring the Citadel grounds, head west to the south side of Quang Truong Ba Dinh Square where there are a multitude of worthwhile sights. It is one of the best places in Hanoi to understand the Vietnamese people’s love for their former leader, Ho Chi Minh.

The most imposing sight on Ba Dinh Square is the stoic Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum where the embalmed body of the country’s most beloved leader sits on display. Visitors who want a peek of ‘Uncle Ho’ will need to wait in line. Next, visit the Presidential Palace grounds (fee to enter) and the traditional Stilt House where Ho Chi Minh lived when he was president. After exiting, visit the historic wooden One Pillar Pagoda before leaving Ba Dinh Square via the north exit.

West Lake and Truc Bach District

Entrance to Quan Thanh Temple in Hanoi, Vietnam

On the southeast bank of West Lake, visit the Taoist temple, Quan Thanh Temple (fee to enter), then walk north along Thanh Nien Street that separates West Lake from the much smaller Truc Bach Lake. If you need a rest and refreshment, make a quick stop at the lakeside Highlands Coffee, a Starbucks-esque coffeeshop chain in Vietnam. As you continue north along the Thanh Nien, note the American War Memorial that celebrates the capture of American pilot and future US senator, John McCain. The memorial is near the spot in the lake where McCain landed via parachute after his plane was shot down.

Continue walking north to the small island on West Lake, which is completely occupied by the Tran Quoc Temple complex – one of the top Hanoi, Vietnam attractions. Many locals consider the 6th century Buddhist temple to be one of the most important in the city – and it’s free to enter.

Wander through the Truc Bach District, one of the lesser-known places to visit in Hanoi. Make your way to the Truc Bach Island on the east side of the lake (it’s connected to land via two roads) and find a seat at the Pho Cuon Huong Mai restaurant for a late lunch. Order one (or both!) of their signature dishes: Rolled Pho or Fried Pho. Walk off lunch and visit the Cho Chau Long Market and then make one last stop in the district: the Roman Catholic Church of Martyrs, more commonly known as Cua Bac Church.

Old Quarter Hanoi Night Market

Fried Meat-on-a-Stick at Night Market in Hanoi, Vietnam

If it is a weekend night (Friday, Saturday or Sunday), spend the evening perusing the wares at the Night Market in Hanoi. The market is set up on Hang Dao Street, which completely closes to vehicular traffic after 6:00pm. Vendors sell clothing, accessories, heaps of tourist souvenirs, sweet treats and all kinds of fried meat on a stick.

Walk the length of the street – from north to south – and then spend some time in the vibrant Dong Kinh Nghia Thuc Square. A fantastic place for Hanoi people watching, look for large groups of people practicing Zumba and street performers.

Pro Tip : The market street isn’t the only Hanoi street that becomes pedestrian-only on weekends; many of the Old Quarter streets close to vehicles on weekend nights. One night, we stumbled onto a street-corner play and the crowds – both locals and tourists – gathered around to watch.

DAY 3: HANOI TOURIST ATTRACTIONS AND CULTURE

Yellow 15th century Quan Su Pagoda in Hanoi, Vietnam

On Day 3 of your 5-Day Hanoi Itinerary, spend time learning more about the history and Vietnamese culture in top Hanoi places of interest.

Pro Tip : We combined most of the Day Three Sights in our Hanoi Walking Tour Blog Post in Walk #5: Culture and History of Hanoi Walking Tour .

Ancient Hanoi History

Entrance gate to the Temple of Literature in Hanoi, Vietnam

Start your third day bright and early with a jolt of caffeine from Cong Café. The modern coffeeshop features vintage communist décor and an amazing iced coconut coffee. Next, head into the Temple of Literature (fee to enter) to learn about the educational complex that dates to the year 1070. Art aficionados might want to look around the Fine Arts Museum (fee to enter) that is located nearby. Next, visit the Quan Su Pagoda, a picturesque 15th century Buddhist temple that also serves as the Head Office of Vietnamese Buddhist Sangha.

Modern History in Hanoi

Maison Centrale better known as the Hanoi Hilton Prison in Hanoi, Vietnam

Step inside the Hao Lo Prison (fee to enter), better known to most as the Hanoi Hilton Prison, where American POWs (like John McCain) were held captive during the Vietnam War. Learn about the prison’s history under French colonialism and stories of the POWs who were imprisoned there.

For lunch, eat a bowl of Bun Cha at Bun Cha Huong Lien. The restaurant was made famous when, in 2016, Anthony Bourdain and US President Obama dined there. Order the Obama Special (Bun Cha, a seafood roll and a beer) and consider how far the relations between the two countries have come in a relatively short time.

After lunch, visit the Vietnamese Women’s History Museum (fee to enter), which features displays and information about women’s traditional role in Vietnamese society. Learn about their position in the family, traditional fashions and how women have taken part in the country’s history.

Spend some time relaxing at your hotel (more on where to stay in Hanoi in a minute!) or simply stroll – without an agenda – through the Old Quarter. Once you have seen all of the sights, we think wandering the streets is one of the best things to do in Hanoi Old Quarter! Grab a Banh Mi sandwich for a late snack or early dinner before sipping a few local beers.

Ta Hien Beer Corner

Busy Hia Hoi Beer Corner in Hanoi, Vietnam

End your third day drinking a few local beers at the famous Ta Hien Beer Corner; it’s one of the top things to do in Hanoi at night. The jovial scene is boisterous, chaotic and highly entertaining. Simply pick a place and find a seat…if there are no tables, the waitstaff will quickly bring one out for you. Just beware: If the police come through and your table is in the street, the staff will quickly move you back to the sidewalk (at least until the cops are out of sight again).

Pro Tip : Just don’t stay out too late – because tomorrow you will embark on a full day trip from Hanoi!

DAY 4: DAY TRIPS FROM HANOI

A fishing boat sails past us on our Halong Bay Cruise in Vietnam

On Day 4 of your Hanoi Travel Itinerary, join a tour to explore more of the region outside of the city center.

Hanoi Day Trips

Day trips out of Hanoi are an ideal way to experience the region and learn more about the people. Good day tours from Hanoi will include a professional, English-speaking guide who can answer questions specifically about the tour and about Vietnam in general. Hanoi day tours are relatively inexpensive – and there are usually options to upgrade to a Hanoi private tour, if desired. Top day tours from Hanoi include a Halong Bay tour, a trip to Ninh Binh and exploring the area outside the Hanoi city center.

Hanoi to Halong Bay: Islands, Cruise, Caves and Kayaks

Karst islands and junk boats dot Halong Bay in the late afternoon in Vietnam

On our first trip to Vietnam, visiting Halong Bay was an absolute highlight of our travels! The enchanting landscape – an azure sea dotted with lush karst mountains – is surreal, and one of the top places to visit near Hanoi. For visitors short on time and unable to squeeze an overnight cruise into their Hanoi Itinerary, there is a jam-packed Hanoi 1-Day Tour to Halong Bay.

The 1-Day Halong Bay Tour is a full day of exploration. The tour features pick up from Old Quarter hotels, bus transport to Halong Bay, a cruise through the majestic karsts, a cave visit, a kayaking adventure and a seafood lunch. The tour – which gets rave reviews! – costs less than $50 USD. Book it now!

Pro Tip : We think a 2-Night Halong Bay Cruise is the best way to experience the natural beauty of the UNESCO World Heritage Site. Read our Halong Bay Cruise article for recommendations and tips!

Hanoi to Ninh Binh: Hoa Lu, Tam Coc and Mua Cave

Typical boat at Trang An Boat, Ninh Binh Province, Vietnam

One of the top things to do near Hanoi is to visit the wonderland of Ninh Binh. Steeped in history and natural beauty, the Ninh Binh Province is nicknamed, “Halong On Land.” Between the flat, green rice fields, stark karst mountains rise to the sky…and a river flows between them.

A full day tour from Hanoi to Ninh Binh features the highlights of the region. Participants are picked up from Old Quarter hotels and driven via air-conditioned bus to the province, which is south of the city. The English-speaking guide then leads the way to numerous Ninh Binh activities – such as a traditional Tom Coc boat ride through three caves, a bike ride through the village, a visit to the ancient capital of Hoa Lu and a hike to the top of Mua Cave for phenomenal views. Guests are also treated to a traditional Vietnamese lunch. Reserve your spot!

Pro Tip : Read about our experience Visiting Ninh Binh from Hanoi and how we wished we had planned better!

Hanoi Outskirts by Bicycle

Visitors who are looking for things to do around Hanoi without boarding a bus can explore the outskirts of Hanoi by bicycle.

On this half-day tour from Hanoi, guests pedal their bikes into the rural villages that lie just beyond the bustling city center. Led by a professional Hanoi guide, tours are limited to 12 people to ensure a small group setting. Follow the guide across the famous Long Bien Bridge, bike through farmland, visit a local artist at their home, see how pottery is made in the village of Quang Ba and watch the sunset over West Lake. Find out more!

More Day Tours from Hanoi

The above-mentioned Hanoi day trips are our top picks – but there are other tours that you might find interesting.

Perfume Pagoda

Travel 2 hours to the ancient Buddhist complex of temples and shrines built directly into the Huong Tich mountains. Enjoy a ride in a rowboat, trekking to a cave and visiting the historical Heaven Kitchen Pagoda. Get the details!

Bat Trang Pottery Village, Van Phuc Silk Village and Duong Lam Ancient Village

Get a full dose of traditional Vietnamese crafts, culture and history on a full day tour from Hanoi. The tour begins in nearby Bat Trang – a village well-known for making pottery and ceramics. Next travel to Duong Lam Village, which features century-old houses, and take a bike ride through the farmland to temples. Before heading back to the city, make a stop at Van Phuc, where locals practice the traditional craft of silk weaving. Learn more here!

DAY 5: WHAT TO DO IN HANOI FOR UNIQUE EXPERIENCES

Man pedals cyclo carrying tourists in Hanoi, Vietnam

On the last day of your Hanoi 5-Day Itinerary, satisfy your curiosity for unique Hanoi experiences by tasting local fare or learning a local craft.

Morning: Indulge in Local Hanoi Fare

Food we prepared at Rose Kitchen Cooking Class in Hanoi, Vietnam

The food in Vietnam is like nowhere else in the world. Fragrant and flavorful dishes dominate the local cuisine. Visitors can discover the food scene three ways: Go on a Self-Guided Discovery, Join a Hanoi Street Food Tour or Take a Cooking Class.

Discover Local Food on your Own

Start your day with a feast and eat a local favorite breakfast dish: Xoi Xeo. Available at markets, we recommend ordering it at Xoi Yen topped with pork ribs and a fried boiled egg. Save a little room for a classic Egg Coffee from the nearby cafe that invented the Hanoi drink, Giang Cafe.

Pro Tip : Use our Hanoi Blog Post: Hanoi Food for top tips on What and Where to Eat!

Join a Guide for a Hanoi Street Food Tour

Rather than plotting your own route through the city’s best eats, learn about the local cuisine from a local Hanoi tour guide. On the small-group Hanoi food tour, participants can get a taste of the best street food in the city! Read the rave reviews!

Hanoi Cooking Class

For a real education in Vietnamese food, join a Hanoi Cooking Class. The half-day class that I took offered so much more than I expected – and the food was phenomenal (seriously, some of the dishes were better than in the restaurants we ate at!). Sign up now – or read the details about my experience in my Hanoi Cooking Class blog post.

Afternoon: Hanoi Neighborhood Exploration

View of Hoan Kiem Lake from cafe in Hanoi, Vietnam

Use the final afternoon of your Hanoi trip to discover a new neighborhood – or revisit one that you loved! Walk the circumference of Hoan Kiem Lake, hop in a Grab Taxi to the West Lake District or go café hopping in the Truc Bach neighborhood.

Alternatively, give your feet a break and take a relaxed Hanoi city tour in a Cyclo for a different perspective – book it online ! Or, cover some ground on two wheels on one of the guided Hanoi scooter tours! The highly-rated Hanoi sunset ride tour features the city’s top sights – book it now!

Visitors who want a break from sightseeing can take in some culture instead by watching a famous Water Puppet Show – get your skip-the-line tickets!

Evening: Unique Things To Do in Hanoi – Train Street

Train on tracks between houses in Hanoi, Vietnam

Visiting train street is one of the more unusual things to do in Hanoi – and a great place to witness the commercial culture of the city. Once just a neglected neighborhood along the railroad tracks, when tourists started showing up to take pictures of trains chugging through the narrow alley, homeowners took note. They opened front porch cafes and shifty balcony bars, successfully raking in tourist dollars.

2023 UPDATE : After completely shutting down Train Street in 2019, apparently tourists are again allowed to enter the area if “invited” by a shop owner. Visitors who want a glimpse of the train barreling through the neighborhood, can watch from their “sponsors” shop and must purchase something as well. The best Hanoi Train Street schedule we found had the following train times: Monday – Friday at 7:00pm, 7:45pm, 8:30pm and 10 pm and on weekends at 6:00am, 9:00am, 11:20am, 3:20pm, 5.30pm, 6:00pm, 7:00pm, 7:45pm, 8:30pm, 9::00pm and 11pm.

Night: Local Bia Hoi Corners

Drinking Fresh Beer – or Bia Hoi – is one of the fun things to do in Hanoi with locals. The Fresh Beer is made daily and delivered to restaurants in large metal tanks. Ice blocks are often put on top of the tank to keep the beer cold in lieu of actual refrigeration. However, at 12k VND or less, it doesn’t really matter that much how cold it is. The best places in Hanoi for Fresh Beer are Bia Hoi Corners – and there are several around the city.

Bat Dan Bia Hoi Ha Noi

At Bat Dan and Duong Thanh, two Bia Hoi Corner Bars sit catty-corner from each other. The open-air bars have low tables and chairs that spill out onto the sidewalks (but never the street). A popular spot with locals, each small glass of Fresh Beer costs just 12k VND – which is about 50 cents USD.

New Bia Hoi Corner: Hang Buom and Dao Duy Tu

Dubbed by locals as the New Bia Hoi Corner, beer vendors pop up all along the stretch of sidewalk after dark at the intersection of Hang Buom and Dao Duy Tu. On weekends, when the street is closed to traffic, live bands set up on the corner. While it is popular with visitors, locals visit this corner, too. It’s a genuine, cheap, and local Bia Hoi experience – and glasses of beer only cost 5-7k per glass (that’s about 25 cents USD)!

Fresh Beer at Dao Duy Tu and Luong Ngoc Quyen

Another fun Fresh Beer corner that pours cheap glasses of Bia Hoi is nearby at the intersection of Dao Duy Tu and Luong Ngoc Quyen. However, rather than vendors serving the drinks, the beer comes from the established corner restaurants.

Pro Tip : Hai San Seafood has a happy hour special from 5-7pm, Buy 1 Get 1 for 5k. By far, the cheapest beers we found in Hanoi!

How Many Days in Hanoi, Vietnam?

Woman pushes bike with basket of flowers through Old Quarter Hanoi, Vietnam

We think 5 days in Hanoi is the perfect amount of time to get acquainted with the city and surrounding area. It allows plenty of time to see the Hanoi highlights and experience the top Hanoi activities. However, we understand that not all travelers have the option of staying in Hanoi for 5 days. To help travelers determine how many days to spend in Hanoi, we have a few suggestions.

Hanoi Travel Itinerary Suggestions

We think our Hanoi, Vietnam itinerary provides the perfect plan for what to do in Hanoi for 5 days. But, if you have more – or less – time, you might be wondering how to plan your trip and where to go from Hanoi. We have created sample Hanoi itineraries – from a Hanoi 1-Day Itinerary to what to see in Hanoi in 3 days to how to spend a week in Hanoi.

Want our tips on planning your time in Vietnam? Use our 2-Week Vietnam Itinerary !

One Day in Hanoi

There is so much to see in Hanoi that it is really difficult to determine what to squeeze into a Hanoi One-Day Itinerary. That said, an ambitious traveler could combine the top Hanoi landmarks (like the mausoleum, citadel and Old Quarter) from the above itinerary’s Days 1 and 2 into a jam-packed One Day in Hanoi Itinerary. Otherwise, for ease of travel, consider joining a Hanoi one-day tour – like this highly-rated tour!

Hanoi Itinerary 2 Days

Planning what to do in Hanoi for 2 days is a little bit easier, but still requires a good sightseeing plan. With 2 days in Hanoi, we recommend following our above guide for Day 1, then choose either Day 2 or Day 3…or combine them together for a really long – but very interesting – day of city sights.

Alternatively, two days in Hanoi could be spent hassle-free with a tour guide. On the first day, take the Hanoi Highlights tour ( book it here! ) and on Day 2 join the street food tour ( reserve your spot! ) or cooking class ( book it now! ).

Hanoi Itinerary 3 Days

Wondering what to do in Hanoi for 3 days? We recommend simply following Days 1, 2 and 3 as outlined in our 5-Day Hanoi Itinerary. With 3 days in Hanoi, there is plenty of time to indulge in the local fare, too. Just use our Hanoi Food Guide to find the best places to eat in the city.

Hanoi Itinerary 4 Days

There are lots of different ways to create an ideal Hanoi 4 Days 3 Nights Itinerary. However, for visitors with 4 days in Hanoi, we recommend using our above Hanoi 5-Day Itinerary…and choosing between going on a day trip from Hanoi or taking a guided tour in the city (basically, decide between Days 4 and 5).

Hanoi Itinerary 6 Days

Visitors with 6 days in Hanoi can enjoy a more leisurely pace. With the extra day, visitors can easily fit in a 2-Night Halong Bay Cruise . Alternatively, choose a second Hanoi tour or event to learn more about the city.

Hanoi Itinerary 7 Days

A 1-Week Hanoi Itinerary allows more time to get to know the city. We recommend following our tips for a 6-Day Hanoi Itinerary – and adding a second day trip for a different cultural experience.

Pro Tip : However you decide to organize your trip, allow room in your schedule to sit back and just watch Hanoi in motion. While the sights are amazing and important to see, Hanoi is a sight in and of itself. The people, the vendors and the motorbikes are a fascinating part of the landscape.

More Sample Hanoi Itineraries

For the above itineraries, we use Hanoi as a base. Visitors who don’t want to spend all of their time in Hanoi can create a multi-stop itinerary for Northern Vietnam.

5-Day Hanoi and Halong Bay Itinerary

Above, we outlined what we think is the absolute best way to spend 5 days in Hanoi. However, we do highly recommend visiting Halong Bay on an overnight trip. Visitors who do not have time in their overall Vietnam Itinerary to fit in a trip to Halong Bay – either before or after visiting Hanoi – can create a Hanoi-Halong Bay Itinerary.

In fact, it is similar to what we did on our first trip to Vietnam. We recommend following our outlined 5-Day Hanoi Itinerary for Days 1 and 2. Then, take a 1- or 2-night Halong Bay Cruise and spend your final 1 or 2 days back in Hanoi (following Days 3 and/or 5 of our above itinerary).

Pro Tip : Planning a Hanoi-Sapa Itinerary is just as simple. Rather than going to Halong Bay, book one of the highly-rated Sapa, Vietnam tours from Hanoi – like this one .

7-Day Northern Vietnam Itinerary: Hanoi, Halong Bay and Sapa

A 1-Week Northern Vietnam Itinerary could easily be created by using our detailed 5-Day Hanoi Itinerary (with a recommended trip to Ninh Binh ) and then including either a 2-night Halong Bay Cruise or 2-night Sapa Tour on the final two days.

Alternatively, tourists who want to visit all three destinations – Hanoi, Halong Bay, Sapa – could plan 3 nights in Hanoi (following Days 1, 2 and 3 of our 5-Day Hanoi Itinerary), 2 nights in Halong Bay (using our recommendations in our Halong Bay Cruise blog post) and a 1 or 2-night trip to Sapa.

It is important to note, however, that the distance between Halong Bay and Sapa is 435km – and it takes between 7 and 10 hours to drive between the two cities. It is possible to plan the trip on your own, but with all of the logistics involved, we think it is worth booking the 3-city trip with a guide. Get the details and find out what is included in this tour.

10-Day North Vietnam Tour Package

An alternate Hanoi tour package includes visiting the most northern – and some say the absolutely most beautiful – part of the country (but does not include Halong Bay). The 10-Day Vietnam trip begins and ends in Hanoi – and stops at Sapa, Ha Giang, Dong Van, Bao Lac and Ba Be Lake. Promising incredible experiences and unique landscapes, the organized tour includes accommodations, activities and most meals. This highly-rated tour is offered by a reliable tour company through Viator .

HANOI TRAVEL TIPS

Woman makes sandwiches at Banh Mi Cart in Hanoi, Vietnam

Now that you know the best things to see in Hanoi and the surrounding region, we have a few more tips for your trip!

When Is The Best Time To Go To Hanoi?

Located in Northern Vietnam (and in the Northern Hemisphere), Hanoi experiences four seasons. Many visitors like to plan their trip based on weather conditions – however, weather in Hanoi can be unpredictable. It is also important to take note of public Vietnam holidays, when certain sights may be closed.

Hanoi Weather

The summer months – June, July and August – are the hottest and the humidity can be stifling. It’s also considered Rainy Season in the summer, meaning frequent (but usually quick) downpours. In the autumn – September, October and November – the temperatures are usually slightly cooler (although we experienced temps above 108 F, about 42 C, during our last fall trip).

Winter in Hanoi – December to February – sees cool temps, ranging between 50-70 F for highs (which we think is perfect for sightseeing!). And, during the Spring – March, April and May – temps start creeping up and the skies are often overcast with light showers.

Check the current weather forecast for your Hanoi trip on Weather.com .

Hanoi Holidays

Before planning a trip to Hanoi, Vietnam, it’s important to check the Vietnam holiday calendar. Many of the public holidays in Vietnam are religious and cultural events that many Westerners are unfamiliar with. Tet – which is better known as the Vietnamese New Year – is the biggest holiday in the country and is marked with week-long celebrations in February. There are other public holidays in April (Hung Kings Festival mid-April and Reunification Day on April 30), May (Labor Day on the first), in September (National Day on September 2) and January 1 for New Year’s Day.

How To Get To Hanoi, Vietnam

Visitors can arrive to Hanoi via plane, bus, train or car (including a private driver, if coming from somewhere else in the region). On our trips to Hanoi, we have arrived by plane to the Noi Bai International Airport (HAN) direct from Singapore and Chiang Mai, Thailand .

Hanoi Airport

The airport in Hanoi is located about 45km from the city center. Visitors can hop in a cab at the airport, but will pay more than pre-arranging transportation. Most hotels offer airport transfers – either included in the price of the hotel or for an extra specified amount. Visitors can also pre-book a ride online on Viator in advance.

Getting Around Hanoi, Vietnam

We think the best way to get around Hanoi Old Quarter is on your own two feet. However, while sightseeing outside of the Old Quarter, we recommend using the Grab App to catch a ride. Grab taxis are significantly cheaper – and so much easier to use – than flagging down a taxi and trying to negotiate price and communicate your destination. Before your Hanoi trip, be sure to download and set up the Grab App.

Shopping in Hanoi

There are many options when it comes to Hanoi shopping! Hanoi markets sell everything under the sun, including tourist souvenirs. However, visitors will want to practice their negotiating skills in order to obtain the best price. Shopping in the Old Quarter is not limited to markets; there are a multitude of shops lining the Old Quarter lanes where visitors can pick up Hanoi keepsakes. Buyer Beware: Some of the items for sale in Hanoi are counterfeit knock-offs, which often are low quality products.

Where To Stay in Hanoi, Vietnam

The best area to stay in Hanoi is in the Old Quarter. That said, with the honking motorbikes and inebriated tourists, it can be loud. Therefore, we recommend staying in a hotel on a pedestrian-only street. On our last Hanoi visit, we stayed in Amber Hotel, which we think is one of the best places to stay in Hanoi.

Amber Hotel in the Hanoi Old Quarter

Hanoi Amber Hotel is a small boutique hotel right in the city center. What we loved best about the hotel was the spacious rooms, ice-cold air con and lovely staff. Because the hotel is located on a small (car-free) alley, the hotel is particularly quiet (especially considering its location). The only downside is there are a lot of stairs and no elevator – but the staff insists on helping carry luggage up and down the stairs.. One additional feature: a delicious, made-to-order breakfast is included in the price. Check availability and rates!

Hanoi Accommodation French Quarter

Visitors who want to stay in the grandiose French Quarter and splurge on accommodations have plenty of choice! Among the 5-Star Hanoi hotels in the French Quarter, the following come highly-recommended by fellow travelers: Hilton Hanoi Opera ( check rates! ), Sofitel Legend Metropole ( check rates! ) and MGallery Hotel de l’Opera ( check rates! ).

Swimming Pool Hanoi Hotel

Of all the Hanoi Hotels, there are relatively few Hanoi hotels with a pool – and those that do tend to come at a premium. That said, there are a few hotels with swimming pools in the Old Quarter that get consistently good reviews. Check the current room rates on one of these pool hotels in Hanoi: Silk Queen Hotel Hang Gai ( check room availability! ) or Tirant Hotel ( get current rates! ).

Hanoi Backpackers Hostels

Backpackers looking for the best locations to stay in Hanoi have a plethora of choices of hostels in the Old Quarter. Little Charm Hostel (which has a pool!) gets exceptional ratings . Buffalo Hostel – also with a pool – gets great reviews, too!

What To Pack For Hanoi, Vietnam

As you prepare for your trip to Hanoi, Vietnam, check out our best packing hacks and make sure you pack the following items in your backpack or suitcase .

Appropriate Attire for Vietnam

It is important to pack the right clothes for your trip. Visitors traveling to Hanoi in the warmer months will need loose-fitting, modest clothing. Make sure to have clothing that covers knees and shoulders so that you can enter temples – or bring a multi-functional wrap that you can carry with you while sightseeing.

Hanoi Weather Gear and Day Bag

With the unpredictable Hanoi weather, we recommend bringing lightweight and versatile weather gear. A packable raincoat is a good choice – and a travel umbrella can provide protection from both rain and sun. Remember to pack good sunscreen , too – as it is expensive to buy in Vietnam. And, finally, don’t forget the insect repellent to keep the mosquitos away! You’ll also want a great day pack to organize and secure all your everyday travel items !

Travel Camera

Hanoi is visually stimulating and extremely photogenic! Capture the beauty of the city with an actual camera , rather than relying on your phone. We travel with a DSLR Canon Rebel with an everyday 18-135mm lens , which takes exceptional photos. Travelers who want something a little smaller (and less expensive) might want to buy a Canon Powershot , which is a great budget camera for quick city shots.

Hanoi Map and Guidebook

As we mentioned before, we think buying a Hanoi map – like this one – prior to your trip is a smart move. Understanding the layout of Hanoi and where the top sights are helps visitors better navigate to sights. And, although we provide a lot of detailed information in this Hanoi trip blog post, a guidebook can also be helpful.

WiFi in Vietnam

Internet connectivity is an absolute must in Hanoi! Getting a SIM card may be the way to go, they are cheap and this one can be delivered to your hotel so that it is there when you check in.

Visitors traveling with locked phones can contact their cell phone provider to inquire about short-term international plans. However, frequent travelers and those traveling in a group or as a family should consider buying a Mobile WiFi Hotspot, like GlocalMe .

Mobile WiFi Hotspot

The GlocalMe Wifi Hotspot is the device we use – and we would be lost without it! The GlocalMe device can connect up to 10 devices at one time. The best feature, however, is that there is a slot for SIM cards, but data can also be purchased online – so it will be available as soon as your plane lands! Buy a GlocalMe Hotspot on Amazon!

Vietnam Travel Insurance

Travel insurance may help cover the cost of cancelled trips or lost luggage , and can provide coverage for emergency medical care too…and no one can predict getting ill or injured abroad. Check coverage and rates at World Nomads .

Start planning your trip to Vietnam ! Search for the lowest airfares , the best accommodations and fun things to do …then start packing ! Want more travel planning tips? Head over to our Travel Planning page for more information and tips on traveling – and for country-specific information, take a look at our Travel Guides page !

We Want To Know : What would you add to our Hanoi Itinerary? Do you have any tips for what to do in Hanoi, Vietnam? Give us your best advice in the comments below!

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Let's Travel it Up

Hanoi Itinerary: How To Spend 7 Fantastic Days Here

Vietnam is a spectacular country with many places to see and a rich culture to learn about. Hanoi is the capital of Vietnam and is one of the most visited cities in the country. With so many things to do and see it can be quite difficult to put together the perfect Hanoi itinerary. Here is a 7-day travel itinerary that you can use to plan a 3, 5 or 7-day trip to Hanoi.

Day 1: Relaxing and Exploring the Old Quarter.

Day 2: prisons and murals – hanoi itinerary, day 3: the unique ha long bay, day 4: a day of museums- hanoi itinerary, day 5: the breathtaking ninh binh, day 6: a day of sight seeing – hanoi itinerary, day 7: last day of experiencing hanoi.

Do you want to read this later? Save this PIN on your Vietnam Board on Pinterest and read it later ⬇

How To Spend 7 Fantastic Days in Hanoi.

This Hanoi itinerary is perfect for a 7-day trip. It’s put together so that the attractions in the same area can be visited on the same day. You can mix and match or leave out the things you don’t want to experience. This itinerary can also be shortened to 3 or 5 days if you don’t have 7 days in Hanoi.

You can explore the city by taking a taxi, a motorbike taxi or by walking. All of the attractions for each day are close enough to walk from one to the other however you can take a taxi if you prefer.

This is perfect if you arrive in Hanoi early morning or midday. If you arrive in Hanoi at night you can skip to Day 2 .

Arrive at Hanoi

The best place to stay in Hanoi is the Old Quarter. There are many attractions in this area and it has a very vibrant nightlife. During this time, check into your hotel and explore the surrounding area.

Explore the Old Quarter and Ho Hoan Kiem Lake

Walking around the Old Quarter and enjoying the small shops, restaurants and bars around. Take a relaxing stroll around Ho Hoan Kiem Lake. In the lake is a small island with a temple on it. The entrance fee is only 15,000 Dong ($0.70). You can also see the iconic Turtle Tower from land.

You can also visit the Memorial House and Bach Ma Temple while in the area. It’s a great way to experience the old town and learn some of its history. Another must-try is the famous Hanoi egg coffee .

❥ Also Read: Top 10 things to do in Hanoi, Vietnam

Street Murals of Hanoi

Along Phung Hung street there are many murals on the wall showing old memories of Hanoi. It shows you a glimpse into the past and how things used to work in Hanoi. For many locals, these murals bring back so many memories. They are beautiful.

Street Murals in Phung Hung street in Old Quarter Hanoi , Vietnam

St. Joseph’s Cathedral

Opened in 1886, St. Joseph’s Cathedral is the oldest church in Hanoi and the most beautiful. The design was inspired by the world-famous Notre Dame de Paris because of its impressive architecture. This Cathedral is a beautiful old building that is a must-see when in the area.

❥ Also Read: 6 things to do in Da Nang, Vietnam

Try a Banh Minh Sandwich – The Ultimate Lunchtime favourite

A Banh Minh is a baguette that is cut down the middle and filled with savoury ingredients almost like a submarine sandwich. It’s traditionally filled with pate, mayo, Asian ham, pickled vegetables, green onion, coriander and sauce.

However, the recipe will vary from shop to shop and some places will give you a choice of what you want on your Banh Minh Sandwich almost like at Subway. This is a favourite, all over Vietnam and an affordable lunch option.

Hoa Lo Prison Memorial

Constructed over 100 years ago, the French held prisoners from around 1901. The prison has been well maintained through the years. You can see first-hand the living conditions, prisoner cells, relics and the terrible things they had to endure.

It costs 30 000 VND per person to enter. You can rent an audio guide for 50 000 VND each. We highly recommend that you get the audio guide. It gives a lot of information about things around the museum as well as some prisoners’ testimonials. Allow for around 2 hours here.

❥ Also Read: 3 Day Travel Guide for Hoi-An, Vietnam: The Ultimate Guide

Water puppet show

Water puppetry dates back to the 11th century and originated in Northern Vietnam. In Hanoi, you can watch a water puppet show and we recommend the Thang Long Water Puppet show.

This show has been performed around the world. The theatre is located in the Old Quarter, across the road from Ho Hoan Kiem Lake. Buy tickets beforehand if you can to get the best seats.

Ticket prices range from 100 000 VND to 200 000 VND depending on where you want to sit. If you buy a ticket for 150 000 Dong or more, you will receive a small souvenir with your ticket.

Disclaimer: The water puppet show is performed in the Vietnamese language. It could be hard to follow the story but it’s still an interesting experience even if you cannot understand it.

1 day trip to Ha Long Bay

Ha Long Bay is one of the most well-known tourist attractions in Vietnam. The bay consists of 1969 islands and islets which will take your breath away. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Ha Long Bay is around a 4-hour drive from Hanoi. You have the choice between a 1-day, 2-day or 3-day tour to Ha Long Bay. The tour you pick will depend on your budget and desire.

For this itinerary, we will focus on a 1-day tour. This will be a whole day tour. Leaving Hanoi early in the morning and arriving back late. During the cruise, you will visit iconic attractions. Lunch is included. If you are vegan or vegetarian or have any other food restrictions make sure you inform the tour agency beforehand.

Book a 1-day tour to Ha Long bay here.

Book a 2-day, 1-night tour to Ha Long bay here.

On day 4 spend time in the French Quarter. This part of town is right by the Old Quarter and you can easily walk here if you prefer. The French played a huge part in the history of Vietnam and Hanoi has a big French influence.

Ceramic Mosaic Mural Street

This is the first stop of the day. This mosaic mural is 6.5KM long and is the largest mosaic mural in the world. It was done to celebrate the city’s 1000th birthday and the murals are based on different periods of time in Vietnam’s history.

Hanoi Ceramic Mosaic Mural, or Hanoi Ceramic Road

❥ Also Read: 5 Beautiful Things to do in Mui Ne, Vietnam

Hanoi Opera House

Hanoi Opera House, also known as the Grand Opera house, was built between 1901 and 1911 and modelled after the Palais Garnier Opera House in Paris. It was a major landmark in Hanoi over the years with many historical events held here.

There are still shows performed here. Have a look if there are any shows on whilst you are in Hanoi if this is something you want to see.

Opening hours for the Hanoi Opera house are from 08:00 to 23:00.

National Museum of Vietnamese History

Originally built in 1925 as a school, this building is a mixture of Chinese and French design. It’s a 2-story building that houses a large number of artefacts, statues, art and war relics.

It’s a fascinating place to walk around and learn some of the rich history of Vietnam. The most well-known exhibits here are the bronze status from the Dong Son culture, Hindu statuary from the Champa and Khmer kingdoms, jewellery from imperial Vietnam and displays that are related to the French occupation.

The entrance fee is 20,000 VND. They have a free audio guide at the museum as well. Opening hours are from 08:00 to 12:30 and 13:30 to 17:00.

Vietnamese Women’s Museum

This hidden gem is often overlooked and not many tourists come here which is a shame. This museum highlights the roles of women in Vietnams society. It shows you the importance, culture, roles and history of women during wartime in Vietnam. The information is provided in the Vietnamese, French and English languages.

Vietnamese Women’s Museum entrance fee is 40,000 VND for adults and 10,000 VND for children aged 6-16 years old. Opening hours are from 08:00 to 17:00

Day Tour to Trang An, Ninh Binh

Ninh Binh isn’t as well known as Ha Long Bay, however, a must-do when in Vietnam. Ninh Binh is around 100km from Hanoi. Tours leave early in the morning and arrive back late afternoon or evening.

There are different tours available that visit different attractions. We recommend tours that include Hoa Lu Ancient Capital, Mua cave and Trang An.

Ninh Binh is known for its goat meat if you are interested in trying it, this is the perfect place.

Book a one-day tour to Ninh Binh here .

Ninh Binh Tour in Vietnam-Hoa Lu Ancient Capital

❥ Also Read: 10 Unique Things to do in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum

This is the final resting place for President Ho Chi Minh. He was a revolutionary leader and president who lead his country to independence and unification. This historical building was built for the people of Vietnam to pay their respect to and honour their national hero.

To build the mausoleum, materials from all around the country were used. Even the gardens have plant species from all over the country. This is a symbol of unity and to keep their hero company.

President Ho Cho Minh didn’t want this mausoleum to be built. He wanted to be cremated and have his ashes scattered around the country so that the land could be used for agriculture. This is a significant place for the Vietnamese.

The entrance is free. Opening hours for the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum are Monday and Friday Closed, Tuesday to Thursday: 07:30 to 10:30 am, Saturday and Sunday: 07:30 to 11:00 am.

Don’t wear short skirts or tank tops. Also, taking photos, talking or finger-pointing are strictly prohibited inside the mausoleum.

Imperial Citadel of Thang Long

This UNESCO world heritage site is a must-visit when in the area. This ancient ruin dates back to the 7th century as it was built on the remains of a Chinese fortress.

The first construction was during the Lý dynasty in 1011. It was expanded during the Tran, Le and Nguyen Dynasties. It played an essential role in society and remained the seat of the Vietnamese court until 1810 when the Nguyen Dynasty chose to move the capital to Hue.

Imperial Citadel of Thang Long is the centre of regional political power for almost 13 centuries without interruption which is an incredible feat. Unfortunately, the building was damaged by the war, and in 1945, the Japanese held 4,000 French prisoners.

In 1954, the Vietnamese Army reclaimed Hanoi and the Citadel became the headquarter of the Ministry of Defense. Since then, excavation of the site started and many ancient artefacts were found.

Imperial Citadel of Thang Long entrance fee is 30,000 VND, Children under 15 years old can enter for free. Opening hours are from 08:00 to 17:00

Fine Arts Museum of Vietnam

Calling all art lovers!! This Fine Arts Museum is an art lovers’ paradise. It showcases many pieces from ancient times to modern times.

This is Vietnam’s main Fine Arts museum. This museum opened in 1966 it’s a three-floor building with the art displayed in chronological order. Most of the art is themed around martyrdom, patriotism, military strategy and defeating enemies.

Fine Arts Museums’ entrance fee is 40,000 VND for Adults, 10,000 VND for children aged 6-16, and 6 years or younger is free. Opening hours are from 08:30 to 17:00, closed on Mondays.

❥ Also Read: Is Vietnam Safe? Things to look out for

Vietnam Military History Museum

The last attraction in this area is the Military History Museum. It opened in 1956, just 2 years after defeating the French.

This museum celebrates victories against the French and later on, the Americans. The museum isn’t well maintained but it gives you a glimpse into the wars that have dominated Vietnam’s history for the last century.

It’s a very interesting place, especially if you are a historian.

Military History Museums’ entrance fee is 20,000 VND and the opening hours are from 08:00 to 16:30.

Lunch at the Railway tracks

Since this will be your last couple of hours in Vietnam we recommend having lunch at the railway tracks. Getting here is easy, simply put “Hanoi street train” into Google Maps. It’s located in the Old Quarter.

Once there, you can sit and relax at the cafes on the train tracks. When the train comes, everyone quickly moves out of the way so the train can move by. It’s a fun thing to see and experience.

It’s a beautiful part of the city that many people don’t know about.

Old Quarter

Wander around the Old Quarter. There is so much to see and do here. This is the perfect place to walk around and buy some souvenirs from the markets.

This is a 7-day travel itinerary for Hanoi Vietnam, however, you can mix and match to create your perfect travel itinerary. If you are in Hanoi for only 3 or 5 days, pick the things that look the most interesting to you and create your own 3-day or 5-day itinerary for Hanoi, Vietnam.

Wondering how long you should stay in Hanoi? We will recommend no less than 3 full days in Hanoi. You can see a lot of the town and do some day trips during this time. However, if you have more time consider spending it here, you won’t be disappointed.

If you found this itinerary helpful, please buy us one of those famous Hanoi egg coffees.

Thank you for your interesting article. I will have a trip to Vietnam on Christmas Eve, I have 3 days in Hanoi.

Awesome! You should definitely go to some museums and murals in Hanoi

Our First Impressions Of Vietnam

Is Vietnam Safe? Things to look out for

Travelling around Hanoi, Vietnam: Our Personal Experience

Top 10 things to do in Hanoi, Vietnam: The Best of Hanoi

Privacy overview.

Hanoi Travel Guide: All you Need to Know for First Time Visitors

Zimmin Around the World

Hanoi is the capital and second largest city in Vietnam. With its rich culture, complicated history, and unique identity, Hanoi is a must visit destination for any traveler. Hanoi is an easy city to explore and is very welcoming to foreigners and first time visitors. This Hanoi travel guide is designed for first time visitors so that anyone can navigate the chaotic streets of Hanoi as we did on our first visit. From must visit attractions to dining experiences, and insider tips, this guide includes all you need to know for a first time visit to Hanoi.

**This post contains affiliate links. If you click on one of the links or banners throughout the page, whether it be TripAdvisor, Booking.com. Agoda.com, or any other affiliate, I might receive commission at no extra cost to you. For more information, you can visit my affiliate link page here. Thanks for the support!

Table of Contents

Applying for an E-Visa

For some countries, it is required to apply for a Visa before traveling to Vietnam. There are multiple countries that are exempt from needing a visa to enter Vietnam.

My website, should not be used to apply for a Visa, this portion is just my personal experience with applying for a Visa. I hold citizenship from a country that required an eVisa.

The process is straight forward and there are multiple websites that can be used to obtain an eVisa to enter Vietnam.

eVisa Vietnam has a lot of helpful information on applying for an eVisa.

There are multiple Visa options as well that can be applied for depending on length of stay.

Our experience applying for an eVisa was not particularly great. We applied online, paid the fee, and signed in all the required information about 2 weeks prior to visiting Vietnam. About a week later, we received an email that our Visas needed to be updated. There was no description on what fields needed to be updated. We quickly redid the application and submitted the eVisa again. I got another email about 4 days before our trip that the Visa was denied again.

In panic, I contacted our hotel, the Hanoi Imperial Hotel and told them that I was unable to get my Visa approved in time. Without hesitation, the hotel told me that they could take care of it for us (of course, there was a fee) and within a day, both Jill and myself had our eVisa for Vietnam.

Advice on Applying for an eVisa for Vietnam

Apply for the eVisa well in advance to ensure there is enough time to update the visa in case it is send back.
Fill out the information properly and double check required fields are filled in.
Pay attention to the photo upload requirements. I downloaded a passport photo app on my phone.
If all fails, contact your hotel and see if the staff can take care of the Vietnam eVisa. You’ll pay extra but it is worth the peace of mind.
Double check the eVisa website if your country is listed as exempt from needed a visa to travel to Vietnam.

Where is Hanoi?

Hanoi is the capital city of Vietnam. Located in northern Vietnam, Hanoi is about 100 km from shores of the South China Sea. Hanoi is situated in the Red River Delta.

The country of Vietnam shares its border with three other countries: Cambodia, China, and Laos.

Travel to Hanoi

Beside overland or by sea, the best way to reach Hanoi is through the air. Most people visiting Northern Vietnam will land at Noi Bai International Airport.

Noi Bai is about 35 km to the north of Hanoi. Drive time to and from Noi Bai International Airport from the city center can take anywhere from 40 60 minute depending on traffic.

From Okinawa, we flew to Seoul and caught a flight with Asiana Airlines from Seoul to Hanoi. Asiana Airlines is one of our favorite 5-star airlines.

Once at Noi Bai International Airport, unless you have a private transfer I’d recommend hailing a cab. We booked pick up and drop off to and from the airport through our hotel. We stayed in the Old Quarter and the price for a private pickup was under $25.

Where to Stay

If staying in Hanoi, it is recommended to stay within the Old Quarter. The Old Quarter is a great pedestrian friendly district in Hanoi with tons of great options for restaurants, cafés, entertainment, nightlife, and attractions.

We booked the Imperial Hotel & Spa Hanoi via Agoda . To be honest, within our price range, there were so many options it was hard to just pick one. Hotels in Vietnam are cheap but that doesn’t mean the quality is cheap. For under $100 you can find luxurious hotels that make you feel like a celebrity! Again, after doing our research on Agoda we booked our hotel at the Imperial Hotel & Spa and we can’t recommend this hotel enough!

Imperial Hotel & Spa

The Imperial Hotel & Spa is a fabulous hotel situated in Hanoi’s Old Quarter. Within walking distance from major attractions like Den Ngoc Son, Ho Hoan Kiem Lake, and the Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre we highly recommend the Imperial Hotel & Spa .

Prior to our trip to Vietnam, we had difficulties obtaining our E-Visa. We contacted the hotel and they took care of the E-Visa process for us. We also booked airport transfer and the driver was there on time to pick us up and drop us off. A hotel staff met us out front to guide us to the hotel entrance.

The staff politely opened the door for us, made us a welcome tea, and went over important information regarding the hotel, Hanoi, and safety. The front counter had a travel agent that can book trips. We booked our Hanoi Countryside on a Motorbike Tour through the hotel and it was one of the better tours we did while traveling Vietnam.

The rooms at the Imperial Hotel & Spa were very nice. Somewhat basic yet comfortable and spacious. The morning breakfasts were one of my favorite parts of staying at the Imperial Hotel and Spa. The menu changed daily and everything on the buffet was fabulous.

Imperial Hotel & Spa had a spa area on the same floor as the restaurant. Here you can book various spa treatments and massages. We did a full body massage here and it felt great after a long day of exploring.

On our final day in Hanoi, our flight was at midnight. We explored Hanoi that day. Worried we’d be sweaty after walking all day, our plan was to freshen up a bit at the hotel bathroom. Before we could even sit down, the staff offered the spa area for us to shower and change clothes.

Imperial Hotel & Spa , was one of the best hotel experiences I’ve had while traveling the world. I’d love to come back!

Website and Address Below:

Hanoi Imperial Hotel & Spa 2RJX+FW Hoàn Kiếm, Hanoi, Vietnam

Mopeds and Moped Safety

For a city with a rough population estimate of 8 million people, there are about 5-6 million mopeds in Hanoi.

One of my favorite things to do in Hanoi was to just stand there on the sidewalk and watch the mopeds drive by. The locals in Hanoi were very innovative when it came to packing items and materials on their mopeds. I’ve never seen anything quite like it! I was also surprised by the amount of people and animals that the Vietnamese can fit on a single moped. I saw one moped with 5 people riding on it.

To us, it appeared that there were not many traffic rules when it came to driving in Hanoi. Mopeds were driving in every direction. Amongst the chaos of mopeds were pedestrians, cyclists, and cars driving on the same roads.

As a pedestrian, at first crossing the roads in Hanoi looks almost impossible. I promise you it gets easier after the first day. By the end of the week, Jill and I were confident and felt very comfortable crossing the streets.
Tips for first time visitors when crossing the street, include to be confident, relax, and be vigilant. Walk slow and just keep moving forward. Drivers are aware you are there and will go around you.
If you want to rent a moped, I recommend trying to rent one outside the city and drive in rural areas before venturing into Hanoi. I feel like it takes skill and a brave soul to attempt to ride a moped in Hanoi.
I had a few moped drivers come up to me while I was standing there and try and sell drugs. I simply declined and they drove off without any issues.

Things to do in Hanoi

If visiting Hanoi, you won’t run out of things to do. From historical landmarks to leisure strolls around Hanoi’s Old Quarter. This Hanoi travel guide provides some of the must do attractions and places to see in Hanoi, especially for first time visitors.

For additional recommendations, I have a post on 18 Amazing Things to do in Hanoi

Hanoi's Old Quarter

Every Hanoi Travel Guide will recommend visiting Hanoi’s Old Quarter. Personally, not only do I recommend visiting the Old Quarter, but also booking a hotel here.

Hanoi’s Old Quarter is centrally located and close to many attractions and restaurants. We found the Old Quarter to be very pedestrian friendly and perfect for families.

Hanoi’s Old Quarter has many French style buildings that are unique and beautiful to include the St. Joseph’s cathedral.

Hanoi Train Street

This narrow alleyway in Hanoi is famous and well known because of the close proximity of the railroad tracks to houses, restaurants, and shops. Passing trains come literally within feet of buildings and people.

Although a popular destination and exciting for tourists to see, Hanoi’s train street is an active railway and does pose potential dangers.

If interested in visiting the Hanoi Train Street and curious when the trains arrive, here is an updated Hanoi Train Street Schedule .

Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum

When visiting Hanoi, one of the most popular attractions is the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum. This mausoleum was erected as a memorial to Ho Chi Minh.

Ho Chi Minh’s preserved body is located within the mausoleum and is open to visitors.

The Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum is free to visit and open from 8:00 am until 11:00 am.

Keep in mind, there are strict rules when visiting, such as covering up and chewing gum is not allowed.

Hoa Lo Prison

Hanoi’s Hoa Lo Prison otherwise known as the “Hanoi Hilton,” is a popular attraction to visit in Hanoi.

Hoa Lo Prison was built in the late 1800’s by the occupying French. The purpose of the prison was for political prisoners. During the Vietnam War, this prison was used to keep US Prisoners of War.

“Hanoi Hilton,” was a name given to the prison by US Prisoners of War.

Temple of Literature

The Temple of Literature is a temple near the Citadel and Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum.

This temple dates back to the year 1070 and is a Confucian Temple.

Plan on spending at least an hour at the Temple of Literature as there are many buildings within the complex that are worth exploring.

Thang Long Imperial Citadel

Thang Long Imperial Citadel is a UNESCO World Heritage Site in the heart of Hanoi.

Thang Long Imperial Citadel is a series of buildings in a complex that was built around the 11th century. The Citadel was built during the Ly Dynasty as the seat of power.

For first time visitors, you can walk the grounds of Thang Long Imperial Citadel, visit the museums within the grounds, and go to the archaeological site across the street.

Thang Long Water Puppet Show

One of the most surprising attractions in Hanoi was the Thang Long Water Puppet Show. Prior to visiting Hanoi, I read about the puppet show but had no real desire to visit.

Thankfully, our second to last night we were looking for something to do to kill a few hours and decided on going to the Thang Long Water Puppet Show.

The puppet show was performed in a theater at the Old Quarter. Multiple performances took place during the hour long performance. All acts of the show were performed in a pool of water and the themes varied based on historical folklore and stories.

Tran Quoc Pagoda

A not miss attraction in Hanoi is the Tran Quoc Pagoda. This pagoda is located on a small island on West Lake. The pagoda dates back 1,500 years.

This was my favorite pagoda during my trip to Hanoi. The unique architecture, vibrant colors, and stunning location made the Tran Quoc Pagoda one of my favorite places to see in Hanoi.

Recommended Places to Eat in Hanoi

Hanoi is renowned for its culinary scene, from cheap street food to high end dining. Most people know Vietnamese food mainly because of Pho and Banh Mi sandwiches, but there is so much more to Vietnamese cuisine then these two dishes. We definitely tried both Pho and Banh Mi sandwiches’, many times and these dishes were excellent. We also tried dishes like Bun Cha and Pho Tran.

Jill and I took a food tour the same day we landed in Hanoi. We decided we wanted to get a decent understanding of the food here and how to properly visit restaurants and order. I must say, I am very glad we started our trip with a food tour as it made us more confident and knowledgeable when it came to the food scene in Hanoi.

A brilliant food dish that was created by French influence that is both very cheap and satisfying is the Banh Mi. Banh Mi is basically a sandwich using fresh baguettes and ingredients. Packed with fresh vegetables and yummy meats, Bahn Mi sandwiches are both refreshing and delicious!

Banh Mi Pate – Our original plan was to g to Banh Mi 25 as it was recommended by the hotel. We got there and it had lines of tourists. Felt a tad touristy to me, so we walked around the corner and stumbled upon a tiny outdoor vendor that was making fresh Banh Mi on the streets. Tiny chairs were set out in front of is open kitchen. The Pate Bahn Mi was delicious! At a price of 25k Vietnamese Dong or about $1, you can’t beat that!

Banh Mi 38 – This was our first Banh Mi experience in Hanoi. We sat on tiny plastic stools at a table that my knees hovered over. The table was sticky, definitely would not pass an inspection in the US or Europe, but I loved it! I ordered a Banh Mi with pulled pork and it was near perfection, the crispy baguette, tender meat, and refreshing vegetables, made for a perfect late night snack.

Bun Cha is one of Hanoi’s iconic dishes and consists of grilled pork, cold vermicelli noodles, and a broth to dunk the noodles in.

Bun Cha Dac Kim – This is a multi level Bun Cha restaurant that was very popular with both locals and tourists. They serve huge portions of Bun Cha, so come hungry!

Bun Cha Huong Lien – The famous Bun Cha restaurant were Anthony Bourdain sat down with former President Barack Obama. We ordered the Obama Combo and split it between the two of us. It’s nice to know that the price here has remained the same.

Phở Gà Khánh Béo – We stopped at Phở Gà Khánh Béo while on our food tour. This was the first stop and here we tried dry Pho. Basically, it’s Pho but without the broth. The dry Pho was very good, refreshing, and the ingredients all paired perfectly.

Other Vietnamese/Western Restaurants Worth Trying

Pizza 4P’s Bao Khanh – Seriously, one of the best brick oven pizzas I’ve had in a long time was at Pizza 4P’s. This pizza restaurant was outside the Imperial Hotel & Spa and was always packed full of people. The pizza here is quality with outstanding toppings and combinations. I had a half and half pizza. One half was gyros and the other was curry chicken. Both sides were excellent, everything from the flavor to the texture was perfect. As a bonus, they have craft beer here as well! I get it, you want to try Vietnamese food while in Vietnam, but it’s worth going to Pizza 4P’s.

Nem Nướng Nha Trang Quế Hoa – Nem Nướng Nha Trang Quế Hoa was another stop on our food tour. This restaurant was busy, chaotic, dirty, but the food was absolutely delicious. This was Jill’s favorite restaurant out of the ones we visited on our food tour. We had a huge platter (pictured above) full of veggies, meats, and rice paper. You use the rice paper to wrap up your ingredients and dunk it in the sauces provided. Super refreshing, filling, and satisfying!

Chay Trúc Lâm Viên – If you are looking for a vegetarian restaurant in Hanoi, Chay Trúc Lâm Viên offers a great variety of vegetarian dishes. We actually ordered way more then we needed because everything on the menu looked great. I had a mushroom cashew dish and it was fabulous!

Coffee in Hanoi

I heard Vietnamese coffee was good prior to visiting, but I had no idea about the variety and styles of coffee. I tried traditional Vietnamese coffee but also tried and fell in love with egg and coconut coffee.

Briefly, egg coffee is a strong espresso coffee with egg yolks in it. The sweetness of the egg breaks up the bitterness of the coffee.

The coconut coffee is a refreshing blend of coffee with condensed milk and coconut milk. Generally served cold, this is the perfect caffeinated drink for those brutal hot summer days in Hanoi.

As listed in my Favorite Cafés in Hanoi post here are my favorite cafés that I visited while in Hanoi.

Hidden Gem Coffee
Melbie Café and Bakery
Xofa Café and Bistro

I have a detailed post on some of my favorite cafés visited in Hanoi: 5 Must Visit Cafés in Hanoi for Coffee Lovers

Recommended Half Day and Day Trips from Hanoi

What’s a Hanoi travel guide without day trip recommendations? I feel like you need at least 3 days in Hanoi to scratch the surface and visit most of the notable attractions. If planning to visit Hanoi more then three days, I recommend half day/full day tours from Hanoi to see more of what Vietnam has to offer.

Below you will find half day/day trips from Hanoi that we took and highly recommend.

Ha Long Bay

One of Vietnams most famous attractions, Ha Long Bay is a must visit destination and popular day trip from Hanoi.

Roughly 2.5-3 hours from Hanoi is the scenic and unique landscape of Ha Long Bay. Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Ha Long Bay is famous for its limestone karst formations that tower over the picturesque waters below.

Ha Long Bay consists of 1,600 – 2,000 islands in the bay. Most islands are uninhabitable but many do include attractions that are generally included in full day tours.

We booked this Ha Long Bay Full Day Cruise through Viator and everything worked out perfectly.

The Ha Long Bay Day Cruise included a fabulous lunch on the cruise ship, a trip to the overlook on top of Ti Top Island for the best views of Ha Long Bay, we kayaked in a secluded cove, and walked through Surprise Cave.

If interested, we booked this tour: Ha Long Bay Cruise Day Tour: Kayaking, Swimming, Hiking, & Lunch

One of my favorite day tours from Hanoi was to Ninh Binh . Picture Ha Long Bay but on land. A Large valley with towering karst formations as far as the eye could see.

We booked this Full-Day Ninh Binh Highlights Tour From Hanoi through Viator .

Ninh Binh was a solid 2 – 3 hours drive from Hanoi. Our tour started off with a brief stop at Hoa Lu Ancient Capital before making our way to hike Dragon Mountain for that iconic Ninh Binh photo, where you see the river cutting through the mountains. We then had a 8 course meal lunch and set off on bicycles to Bich Dong Pagoda. Our tour wrapped up with a final attraction that included a somewhat relaxing boat ride down the Ngo Dong River.

I booked the Full-Day Ninh Binh Highlights Tour From Hanoi and highly recommend this tour.

Motorbike Tour: Exploring Hanoi's Countryside

Looking for something adventurous to do in Hanoi that doesn’t involve venturing to far from the city? I highly recommend a motorbike tour through Hanoi’s countryside .

We booked this Vietnam Backstreet Tours by Minsk Motorcycle through our hotel and it was one of the most fun half day tours I’ve ever done. We were picked up at our hotel by two locals on motorcycles.

Trust me, I would never ride a moped in Vietnam unless maybe there was no traffic and pedestrians.

Either way, the motorbike tour was a great way to experience driving one the streets of Hanoi on the back of a motorcycle.

We didn’t just cruise through Hanoi, we departed the city and drove through the countryside to Bat Trang, a famous pottery village.

We booked this Vietnam Backstreet Tours by Minsk Motorcycle and highly recommend it.

For more information, I have a post written about our half day motorbike tour: Off the Beaten Path: Exploring Hanoi’s Countryside on a Motorbike .

Common Questions When Visiting Hanoi

How Many Days to Visit Hanoi? I’d recommend a minimum of two days but feel you need at least 3 days to explore the city. Tack on more days if you plan on doing day trips from Hanoi.

Is it safe to travel to Hanoi?

Absolutely, just watch out for mopeds and be vigilant when it comes to crossing the road. In regards to crime, apparently it is not all that common in Hanoi especially with foreigners. Like any city, use common sense and be aware of your surroundings.

What do I need to know before traveling to Hanoi?

I’d recommend doing your research and come up with a game plan on what you would like to visit in and around Hanoi. Hanoi or Vietnam in general is very cheap. Meals ran us anywhere from $1 to $6 a person. Pay attention to when you travel to Hanoi. The summers can be brutally hot and humid. Bring plenty of clothes to change in to.

Tips When Visiting Hanoi

Refresher on pedestrian safety when crossing the streets in Hanoi. Pay attention and be vigilant. Cross the road slowly, with confidence, relax, and move forward.
Be mindful of what you eat in Hanoi. Although the food is great everywhere, some of the sanitary conditions might not be up to western standards and the food preparations can cause sickness. A general tip I learned when I first visited Guatemala was to only eat fruits that you have to peel. Try not to eat fruits and vegetables that are washed, and don’t drink water unless it’s bottled. Also, don’t drink beverages with ice.
I was stopped a few times standing on the sidewalk and mopeds drivers came up to me asking if I wanted to buy what appeared to be drugs. Simply decline their offer and they should drive off.

Hanoi is an exciting city that offers a nice variety of things to do, historical attractions, and natural beauty. From strolling around Hanoi’s Old Quarter and drinking unique coffee to visiting the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and exploring temples, Hanoi truly does offer something to everyone. A minimum of two days is a must when visiting Hanoi, but it is recommended to tack on a few extra days, especially if planning some day trips from Hanoi. This Hanoi travel guide for first time visitors was written based on my first time experience traveling around Hanoi for a week.

Enjoying my photos and want to see more? Check out my Picfair Store . 📸

Plan Your Trip: 🗺️✈️ 🇻🇳

Booking Accommodations ⛺️🛖

For booking recommendations on the best deals and locations, check out Agoda or Booking.com

Activities and Tours 🏖️🚁

Find fun activities and things to do through Tripadvisor . If you are looking for tours and day trips, Viator and Get Your Guide have a lot of great options.

In need of a car rental? 🚗🚘

I recommend checking with Rental Cars .

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Great Guide, Thanks for sharing!

No problem and thanks for reading, I hope you found it useful! I’d love to hear about your trip if you plan on going. Feel free to reach out if you have questions or need recommendations.

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Hanoi Tour Planner - All You MUST Know Before You Go (2024)

Hanoi Itinerary 5 DAYS – The BEST Itinerary for 5 Days 4 Nights in Hanoi

If you are only planning a brief trip to Hanoi Itinerary 5 Days is a reasonable amount of time, which is neither too long not too short, to explore the well-known tourist attractions here.

So what can we do on a five-day stay in such a 1000-year-old capital? As a local who was born and raised in Hanoi, I can provide you with some suggestions on how to create the finest 5-day itinerary, including where to go and what to do in the capital.

Let’s take out some of the best Hanoi Itineraries in 5 days and 4 nights to find the answer for the aforementioned question

Table of Contents

Brief Itinerary – Hanoi Itinerary 5 Days

For more itineraries, check out:

2 Days in Hanoi
How to spend 3 Days in Hanoi?
What To Do in Hanoi in 4 Days?
Hanoi Itinerary 6 Days
7 Days Itinerary in Hanoi

Option 1: Hanoi 5 Days 4 Nights Relaxing Itinerary for sightseeing lovers

First day : Hanoi arrival
Second Day : Hanoi – Halong bay, overnight on cruise
Third Day : Halong bay – Hanoi, overnight in Hanoi
Fourth Day : Ninh Binh full day trip, overnight in Hanoi
Fifth Day : Hanoi departure

Why is this itinerary right for you

A trip to Hanoi will allow you to leave the weariness of modern life behind and explore fresh things in a foreign country.
This trip includes interesting outdoor activities as well as an outstanding 24-hour Halong Bay Cruise.
Visitors can take advantage of the local convenient transportation options to save time and effort while having access to new experiences and discoveries.
You will get the chance to explore Hanoi, Halong Bay, and Ninh Binh on a 5-day trip. It will include 2 days in Hanoi, 2 days in Halong Bay (overnight stay on boat) and 1 day in Ninh Binh.
As a result, visitors will have the opportunity to stroll through the vibrant capital, partake in beach activities, and gaze at the stunning limestone mountain scenery.
Everyone can enjoy a 5-day Hanoi itinerary, whether you are traveling with a company, family, or alone.

>>> Get your own Customized Itinerary for FREE <<<

Option 2: Hanoi 5 days / 4 nights itinerary for city lovers

Day 1 : Hanoi arrival
Second Day : Hanoi city tour
Third Day : Hanoi – Halong bay, overnight on cruise
Day 4 : Halong bay – Hanoi, overnight in Hanoi
Day 5 : Hanoi departure

>>> Explore Halong Bay Overnight on Cruise <<<

On the second day, you can take a group city tour or a private tour to see some attractions such as Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, the Temple of Literature, the One-pillar pagoda, the Old Quarter and more.

Then, you can go to the Bat Trang pottery village in the outskirts of Hanoi. It will be a great place to pick up some traditional ceramic items as souvenirs.

Additionally, there are more options for you to participate in such as kayaking, squid fishing, swimming, and overnight cruises at HaLong Bay, one of the natural wonders of the world.

Option 3: Hanoi 5 days adventure package for hiking lovers

Day 1: Hanoi arrival – Train/Bus to Sapa
Day 2: Sapa – Cat Cat Village
Third Day: Y Linh Ho – Lao Chai – Ta Van – Back to Hanoi
Fourth Day: Halong Bay Day Trip

Day 5: Hanoi Departure

This trip will begin with a tour of the quaint streets of Hanoi, continue to the majestic mountains of Halong Bay, and end in the hilly region of Sa Pa.
Here, you can have memorable experiences as a local when using the train or a sleeper bus and even being able to take part in easy to moderately difficult trekking activities.
Even though the trip is short, it still enables you to take in the splendor of HaLong Bay or Sapa’s luscious golden rice terraces.

Option 4: Hanoi 5 Days Classic Itinerary

Day 1: Hanoi Arrival
Second Day: Explore Hanoi City Tour – Full Day
Third Day: Halong Bay Cruise Day Trip
Day 4: Ninh Binh Full Day: Hoa Lu Tam Coc Mua Cave Tour
Day 5: Departure

>>> Book Now DELUXE HALONG BAY DAY TRIP 6 HOURS CRUISE All Included with most Famous Sightseeing Places & Activities

This short day trip to Northern Vietnam will be the explorations of Hanoi, Ninh Binh and Ha Long
It offers you fun activities like kayaking, biking, climbing, and more.
During the trip, you also will have the opportunity to meet new friends and explore new lands. It’s time to refresh your daily routine and immerse yourself in the poetic natural surroundings!
With a round-trip from Hanoi, more time will be available for you to explore Hanoi with its colorful lifestyle as well as rich culture and history.

What to do in Hanoi for 5 Days Itinerary

Option 1: hanoi itinerary 5 days with 2 destinations, hanoi – halong bay – hanoi, day 1: hanoi old quarter.

After tourists arrive at Noi Bai airport, it takes about 45 minutes from the airport to Hanoi Old Quarter. Most tourists choose to stay overnight in the Old Quarter because it is near most famous tourist attractions.
Tourists can go for a stroll around the Old Quarter to visit some places such as Hoan Kiem Lake, Ngoc Son Temple, Dong Xuan Market – Traditional Market in Hanoi, Long Bien Bridge, and enjoy a cup of traditional coffee.
Hanoi Old Quarter is known as a place to retain ancient culture and memories of the times, making many tourists visit this place once in a lifetime. Through many ups and downs, the ancient streets still stand to this day.

In the Evening – Hanoi Nightlife

After a long and exhausting day of visiting this beautiful city, visitors may take in Hanoi’s vibrant nightlife. So what activities are available in Hanoi at night?
Nighttime is the only time of day when you may enjoy Hanoi without becoming sunburned or worn out from traveling there.
The streets are bustling and crowded with foreigners and locals with whom you can make friends along the way and get to know Hanoi from the perspective of real Hanoians.

>>> Read more: What to do at night in Hanoi – Best Things To Do in Hanoi at night

Day 2: Ho Chi Minh Complex – Hoa Lo Prison – Temple of Literature – Water Puppet Show

The second day in Hanoi will be the perfect time to take a Hanoi City Tour, and be sure to watch an amazing water puppet show at Thang Long Theater right on the edge of Hoan Kiem Lake

Ho Chi Minh Complex: Visit inside Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, a must-visit attraction in Hanoi. If you have more time, watch the flag-lowering ceremony at Ba Dinh Square, which takes place at 6 a.m. daily.
Ba Dinh Square – one of the attractions in the Ho Chi Minh complex, is a square in Hanoi, where President Ho Chi Minh read the Declaration of Independence of Democratic Vietnam.
Visit Uncle Ho’s stilt house: This modest traditional stilt house where President Ho Chi Minh lived continuously from 1958 to 1969 is located in a well-maintained garden, adjacent to a pond full of carp and has been preserved in the same way as when he was alive.
Ho Chi Minh Museum is one of the sites in the Ho Chi Minh Complex. Tourists can visit the museum and learn knowledge about people and life of President Ho Chi Minh – the greatest person in Vietnamese history
Hoa Lo prison: This is a large prison complex built by the French in 1896. Hoa Lo prison nowadays is all that remains of the former Hoa Lo Prison, ironically nicknamed ‘Hanoi Hilton’ by American prisoners of war during the American War.

Address: 1 Hoa Lo Street, Tran Hung Dao, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi

Opening hours: from 08:00 until 17:00; Close from lunch, 11:30 until 13:30. Daily including Tet and national events Entrance Fee: Adult: 30.000 VND for Vietnamese and foreigners, Disabled people, the elderly ( > 60 age): 15.000 VND, Children under the age of 15: Free

Check the regulations and bring the essential things as to the Ho Chi Minh Complex
The first place opens at 8:00, so you better get there on time or earlier
Queuing is a normal scene here because there are so many tourists
City tours should be booked as soon as possible because this tour is usually full.

In the evening

Take a street food tour or cooking class

Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam is the convergence of all the most quintessential and delicious dishes. Just take a walk around Hanoi Old Quarter and you will find a lot of unique and delicious street food stalls

Bun Cha (Rice Noodles with grilled pork)

Would you like to try the food that Former US President Barack Obama tasted during his visit to Hanoi? Don’t miss the specialty – Bun Cha!

Bun cha is served with tasty grilled pork, a plate of rice noodles and herbs dipped with sweet and sour dipping sauce.

Banh mi (Hanoi bread)

It has become popular all over the world in recent years. A small bread contains many different fillings inside such as liver pate, grilled meat, herbs, sliced cucumber, creating a unique flavor which you should not miss trying when coming to Ha Noi

This drink is a combination of egg yolk, Vietnamese coffee powder, condensed milk and cheese. These ingredients may sound strange for a coffee-related beverage but don’t worry, it doesn’t have an unpleasant or heavy taste but offers a surprisingly light and sweet vanilla flavor.

==> Let’s take a Hanoi Street Food Tour now to extensively experience the most famous and unique dishes and enjoy a special egg coffee cup with a local guide, which might be one of the most memorable things about your trip.

Day 3: Hanoi – Halong Bay Day 1 – Sung Sot Cave – Titov Island

If you want to go far from Hanoi to discover more of the beautiful Vietnam, Halong Bay is surely a recommendation for you. It will take about 2 to 3 hours from Hanoi to Halong Bay by car, depending on the type of itinerary and day trip you plan to make.
And as far as our experience goes, you should spend 2 days in HaLong Bay to fully enjoy this beautiful landscape instead of just taking a 1-day tour there. If you do not have enough time to visit HaLong in 2 days, a cruise with 6 or 7 hours on the bay will be a good alternative.

Your itinerary will be as below:

Departing from Hanoi early in the morning, tourists will arrive at Halong Bay around lunch time, and board the Halong cruise.
Have lunch on the cruise while passing through many beautiful islands of HaLong Visit
Sung Sot Cave: Located on Bo Hon Island is one of the largest and most beautiful caves of Halong Bay. The path to the cave is covered with trees and foliage and wonderful paved blocks. The ceiling of the cave is about 30 meters high and the walls are almost perfectly smooth as if it was man-made with various magical colors

Titop Island

Right in the center of Halong Bay, Titop Island is considered as one of the most beautiful islands in the bay that attracts numerous tourists yearly, even though its area is relatively small.
Titop Island offers spectacular views from a vantage point high in the center of the island.
Additionally, tourists can find accommodation at any of the upscale resorts, hotels, restaurants and bars built here.
Stay overnight on a cruise in Halong Bay.
Prices vary depending on the criteria such as the itinerary type or the number of travelers in group
If tourists have less time visiting Halong Bay, let’s check out our 3-day Hanoi Itinerary!
Choose a trustworthy Halong Bay Travel Agent to book a great tour!

Day 4: Halong Bay Day 2 – Luon Cave – Hanoi.

The fourth day should be also spent on Halong Bay. It may vary according to the itinerary you choose, but generally, a brief itinerary would include:
Wake up and do Tai Chi exercise on the deck or watch the beautiful sunrise
Visit Luon Cave : is located on Bo Hon Island, in the south of Halong Bay, and only 1 km from Sung Sot Cave. This cave is an open-air cave and can only be visited by boat.
Take part in some water sports and activities such as kayaking, swimming, scuba diving…

Day 5: Back to Hanoi

For your last day of Hanoi Itinerary , we recommend you have a day free to have time to pack your luggage and get ready for your next flight.
But if you still have plenty of time before departure time and want to explore more, you can visit the following places:
Vietnam Museum of Ethnology is one of biggest museum in Hanoi, is home to display and keep cultural artifacts of 54 officially-recognized ethnic groups in Vietnam.
Van Phuc Silk Village – Located in Van Phuc ward, Ha Dong district, more than 10 km from the center of Hanoi, Van Phuc Silk Village is one of the most famous and oldest silk weaving villages in Vietnam.
Bat Trang ceramic village is a long-standing village, about 13 kilometers from the city center. It is famous throughout Vietnam for its beautiful ceramics and unique style of ceramics called Bat Trang Ceramics.

Hanoi – Sapa – Hanoi

This itinerary will head to Sa Pa instead of visiting Halong Bay to be able to learn about the cultural diversity of ethnic minorities. Sa Pa is well-known as an appealing tourist attraction with rice terraces and majestic Fansipan mountain.

However, in Sa Pa, you will have to do a lot of trekking and this is more suitable for young people and those with a strong soul of adventure. If you just want to relax and admire the beautiful landscape, Halong bay is the better choice.

Day 1: Explore Hanoi Old Quarter and Hanoi Nightlife

Explore the Old Quarter or the French Quarter
Drink Bia Hoi and experience the nightlife in Ta Hien Street

Day 2: Hanoi City Tour and Night Train to SaPa

Visit Thang Long Imperial Citadel and Museum of Ethnology
Take a night train to Sapa

>> Book Now Hanoi City Tour All Included with most Famous Historic & Sightseeing Places

Day 3: Hike through Sapa forest

Walk to Cat Cat and Sin Chai villages where the H’mong people live
Enjoy fresh air and the beautiful and green scenery of mountains
Wear comfortable sport shoes for a gentle walk

Day 4: Visit the villages in Sapa and return to Hanoi

Visit Y Linh Ho and Muong Hoa Valley
Socialize with the people of Lao Chai village.
Visit Ta Van village settled by the Dzay ethnic minority people
Take night train to Hanoi

Day 5: Spend the remaining time in Hanoi and departure

Visit the Temple of Literature or enjoy Hanoi Cuisine with a local guide

>>> Haven’t decided yet? Get FREE ITINERARY <<<

Option 2: Hanoi Itinerary 5 days with 3 Destinations

Let’s see what to do for these 5 days?

Hanoi – Ninh Binh – Sapa – Hanoi

Budget: From 200 US$/pax
Overview: A trip to Northern Vietnam will be unforgettable if you can visit the main attractions which offer you breathtaking and poetic sceneries. The 5-day Hanoi itinerary below will help you discover the true beauties bestowed by the nature

Day 1: Museum of Ethnology – Hanoi Old Quarter – Water puppet show – Cyclo Ride

Learn more about Vietnam’s 54 ethnic minorities
Relax and get insight of the Hanoi streets by cyclo

Day 2: Visit the Hoa Lu Ancient Capital

Take in the beauty of majestic limestone mountains
Take the night train to Sapa

Check out some beforehand information about Things to do in Ninh Binh and Hoa Lu Tam Coc Tour – the most popular tour there!

Day 3: Lao Cai – Mong Sen – Ta Phin

Visit Mong Sen to enjoy the beauty of rice fields and countryside
Explore Ta Phin village
Visit the church in the center town
Shopping at the night market

>>> Or more exploration in Things to do in Sapa

Day 4: Cat Cat Village – Heaven gate – Back to Hanoi

Wake up and have breakfast in Sapa Town.
Go to Cat Cat village which is located near Sapa town.
Meet the Hmong and learn about their special customs and traditions.
Noon time: Return to Sapa for lunch. Explore Sapa market and buy some souvenirs.
14:30: Get on the bus back to Hanoi. 19:30: Return to the hotel in Hanoi and relax in the evening, or have dinner around the Old Quarter.

Day 5: Shopping in Hanoi before leaving from the city

Take a customized tour of your own to visit places you haven’t been.
Or shop to pick up some nice souvenirs for your friends and family

Hanoi – Ninh Binh – Halong – Hanoi

Budget: From 235 US$/pax
Overview: Hanoi itinerary in 5 days and 4 nights will include visits to the two world landscapes of Vietnam recognized by UNESCO: Trang An Complex (Ninh Binh) and Halong Bay. Here, you will have the opportunity to visit the must-visit destinations of Northern Vietnam as well as truly discover the beauty of the capital from the past to now

Day 1: Arrive in Hanoi – Visit Hanoi Old Quarter – Enjoy nightlife

Take a street food tour to explore the Old Quarter
Enjoy the nightlife in Hanoi
Visit some places such as the French Quarter, the Opera House, St. Joseph’s Cathedral is also a good choice

Day 2: Hanoi – Hoa Lu – Tam Coc – Hanoi

Visit Hoa Lu, the first capital of Vietnam
Cycling along the rice fields
Ride on a boat along Ngo Dong River
Take a cyclo tour in Hanoi

Day 3: Hanoi – Halong Bay

(Hon Gai Harbor – Bai Tu Long Bay – Cong Do Island – Cap La Island – Tra San)

Have lunch on the cruise when moving to Bai Tu Long Bay
Kayak in Cap La Island
Go squid fishing at night

Day 4: Cong Do Island – Hon Gai Harbor – Hanoi

Visiting Thien Canh Son Cave
Join a Vietnamese cooking class on the cruise
Visit other main attractions in Hanoi
Leave Hanoi
If your departure time is at midnight or later, don’t hesitate to visit Bat Trang Ceramic Village and take a pottery workshop. It will take an afternoon if you go by bus or private car.

To explore 3 destinations in a longer time, let’s check out 6-day Hanoi Itinerary and 7-day Hanoi Itinerary!

Above are all suggestions for the Hanoi itinerary in 5 days and 4 nights. Follow your favorite itineraries or GET YOUR OWN PLAN to discover Hanoi to the fullest!

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HANOI TOUR PLANNER - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go

12 Intriguing Things To Do In Hanoi: A Detailed Travel Guide

Categories Destinations , Asia , Hanoi , Vietnam

If you are planning a trip to Vietnam and you have started your general research, you will know that Hanoi is the capital of the country. There are loads of things to do in Hanoi which is why it features on so many people’s travel bucket list.

Many people consider capital cities a representation of the country as a whole. Me… I consider them a brief introduction or a short finale. It depends on which part of my trip they land up being.

It is usually the beginning or the end largely because the main International airports are in the big cities. That’s one of the reasons why we visited Hanoi but that’s just one. The other reason was that our favorite restaurant in Bangalore was named Hanoi and we loved the food it served.

Nevertheless, we had a short while to spend in the city and I decided to talk about how we made the best of it. That’s why I drew up a Hanoi travel guide based on the experiences I had as a tourist.

In order to help you navigate through the article (since it a long one), we have provided you with a set of links below.

A brief introduction to Hanoi : This includes the climate, currency, transportation and accommodation available in the city.
Things to do in Hanoi : This includes the historical, cultural and religious structures/tourist spots that one should visit in the city.
Things you should not miss in Hanoi : This includes a few quick tips that we learned along the way.
Travel accessories : This includes accessories that you should consider carrying when traveling to Hanoi.
Travel Itineraries : A short glimpse at how we planned our time in Hanoi

This post may contain affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn a small commission from qualifying purchases at no additional cost to you. Read my disclaimer for further information.

🍚 Looking for some interesting things to do in Hanoi? I highly recommend booking a street food tour . This was you get to taste the food and a have a local guide too! 🥡

A brief introduction to hanoi.

I think that our Hanoi travel guide must have a brief introduction to the city. Like every other part of the world, Hanoi has its own beauty and its own charm.

Your time in Hanoi may be short or long, but the basics that this travel guide of Hanoi will provide will be applicable for everyone. It will also help you plan out your itinerary well and include as many of the things to do in Hanoi as possible.

Vietnam is a long strip of land and hence it doesn’t come as a surprise that the weather in the north and the south differs. Hanoi is situated at the north of Vietnam. This means that it usually has colder climates during winter months. We were in Hanoi in December and we found the weather really pleasant.

That being said, I did a little research and realized that the temperatures can cross 30 o C in the summer. Rain is also something that you need to keep in mind. While July may be the hottest month in Hanoi, it is also the wettest month. This definitely means that you are in for a hot humid climate if you head there at that time of the year.

Make sure that you take the climate into consideration when you map out the things to do in Hanoi. If you aren’t used to the heat then it can seriously wear you out.

The Currency

The currency that is used in Vietnam is the Vietnamese dong. Once you do your conversion from dollars (or almost any other currency) to Vietnamese dong, you will begin to feel quite rich. This is largely because of the number of zeros that follow each number.

Unfortunately the zeros don’t really matter because once you do your calculations you realize that you start paying with a number of zeros. Despite the large numbers involved in every transaction, Vietnam is a very cheap country to backpack across. So don’t let the financials worry you too much.

Getting To Hanoi

To say that we had two days in Hanoi maybe a bit of a stretch because we reached and checked out of the airport at around 3 pm. It had been a long flight with particularly long stopovers (one in Kuala Lumpur and one in Ho Chi Minh) and we were all but exhausted. With lack of time on our hands we knew that we had to get to our designated accommodation as soon as possible.

The cheapest way to head to the city is via the public transport. There are a lot of taxis and mini vans waiting to be rented but they are much costlier. Just ask anyone at the numerous booths inside the airport and they will point you in the right direction.

Accommodation In Hanoi

Hanoi has a number of backpacker hostels and even more hotels. You can take your pick and choose from luxury to bare necessities. I think this is one of the best parts about staying in the city. The accommodation doesn’t have to drain your budget at all and you do not have to sacrifice your creature comforts either.

Peridot Grand Luxury Boutique Hotel – Luxury

⭐️ Rating: 9.4/10 (2500 Reviews) Price: $175 per night 📍Location: 33 Đường Thành, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi Details: Read more on booking.com now!

If you are looking for a accommodation that will pamper your senses then you can not go wrong with Peridot Grand Hotel and Spa. The airconditioned rooms are a big relief when the summer heat hits. They are also clean, spacious and come equipped with a flat screen TV, kettle and hairdryer.

Worried about connectivity, then stop. This place has great wifi which means that you can work from home at ease. It also has a spa, 2 on site restaurants, 3 bars, a fitness center and even an outdoor pool.

Sounds pretty awesome right? Trust me! It is!

“My husband and I had an excellent stay at Peridot! During breakfast times we were greeted by Eliana who was informative and friendly. She shared tips to visit around Hanoi which was helpful. We loved the rooftop bar, room was lovely and location super central!” Amy ( read more reviews now! )

The rooms also include a free continental / buffet breakfast for the price which is pretty handy especially if you don’t want to head out for a meal. The location of the hotel is also pretty great and you can walk or cycle from there easily.

Aira Boutique Hanoi Hotel & Spa (Mid-Range)

⭐️ Rating: 9.2/10 (1455 Reviews) Price: $125 per night 📍Location: 38 Tran Phu, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi Details: Read more on booking.com now!

Remember how I said that there are hotels in all budget ranges? I particularly prefer the mid-range. This is where you don’t pay loads but you get a lot back in terms of facilities. The Aira Boutique Hanoi Hotel & Spa is definitely one of these.

It is not absolutely central which means you aren’t in the noisiest parts of town but still are within 10-15 min walking from all the notable things to do in Hanoi which is what makes its location so ideal.

The hotel is decorated in the colonial style and all the rooms are luxurious. They come fitted with all the amenities that you would expect in a luxury hotel.

Some of the rooms even have balconies with a view of the iconic things to do in Hanoi. That’s a pretty way to wake up every morning. Don’t you think so?

One of the highlights is the outdoor swimming pool. Other attractions of this accommodation include a fitness center and a gorgeous garden.

“The staff was so kind and helpful especially Christine at the front desk. She elevated our stay with the family to a place where we were sad to leave. The staff at the restaurant too were fabulous specially the bar tenders Tom and Grace who made fabulous cocktails and fun conversation. We were with a small child and the room we had initially chosen felt small so we upgraded to the suite and post that the space and experience was excellent” Vaide ( read more reviews now! )

Things To Do In Hanoi

Our Hanoi travel guide can not be complete without a list of things to do in Hanoi. While I have already made a short list about it months ago, I thought I would put all the information in one place. I hope you find it helpful.

Things To Do In Vietnam: History

My knowledge of Vietnam’s history was sadly scant. A trip to Vietnam sorted it out. Learning about the Vietnam started out right from Hanoi (which was the first Vietnamese city that I visited). I think that understanding the history and culture of a place gives you a deeper understanding of the people and their lives. That’s why I have included learning about Vietnam’s history in my list of things to do in Hanoi.

Places that would include under my list of things to do in Hanoi as far as history is concerned are as follows.

1. Hoa Lao prison

The first Vietnamese flag.

This was the prison where the Vietnamese were held captive. Their living conditions were horrible. It tells a tale of how they crawled through tunnels to escape and it also has the first make shift Vietnamese flag on display.

This prison was later used to house the American soldiers who were taken prisoners.

The prison does not have a pleasant history. No prison does… But for me this place was where I first begun my quest of learning about the war.

I highly recommend putting this place on your list of things to do in Hanoi when you visit as it will give you a deeper understanding about the history of Vietnam in general. You will begin to look at all the attractions in Hanoi differently.

2. The Presidential Palace

Hanoi Travel Itinerary Presidential palace

A glimpse at the Presidential palace.

The Presidential Palace was supposed to be the residence of President Ho Chi Minh. The president however declined to stay in the palace and instead took up residence in a small Vietnamese style house that was built on stilts. The house that he lived in exists till this day and you can catch a glimpse of how the man lived.

3. The Mausoleum

We unfortunately did not get to enter the Mausoleum.

The Mausoleum lies very close to the Presidential palace. In fact it lies at walking distance away from it. The Mausoleum is the final resting place of President Ho Chi Minh and contains his remains. The Mausoleum was closed for some renovations when we were there last December.

*There are some other buildings/ museums/ structures that have historical significance. I have just listed the ones that we have visited in our Hanoi travel guide.

Things To Do In Hanoi: Temples And Pagodas

At first glance there were a number of temples and pagodas in Hanoi. We had to pick and choose a few to fit into our travel itinerary so we decided to do the ones on the way to each of the famous tourist sites. I’m just going to add those temples and pagodas to my list of things to do in Hanoi.

4. The Temple Of Literature

I would definitely add the Temple of Literature to my list of things to do in Hanoi. We stumbled across it quite by accident. We just noticed a large number of people wandering into it and we decided to join the crowd. Sometimes the best things in life come as surprises.

The Temple of Literature is also known as the Temple of Confucius. It was also the first University of Vietnam. The temple has a number of symbols hidden in all corners.

Since we did not have a guide I lost out on a few but I did catch a few snippets of what some of the tour guides had to say.

5. The Tran Quoc Pagoda

A glimpse inside the pagoda.

One of my favorites on my things to do in Hanoi list is the Tran Quoc Pagoda. As you approach the pagoda from the other side of the lake, it appears to rise up from the middle of the lake. For a pagoda that was built in the 11 th century, it is remarkably well preserved. The Tran Quoc Pagoda is still used as a place of worship that is what made it even more fascinating!

6. The One Pillar Pagoda

The famed One Pillar Pagoda.

One of the popular things to do in Hanoi is to visit the One Pillar Pagoda. Since it is really close to the Presidential palace and the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum it is definitely worth stopping by.

The One Pillar Pagoda is an old Buddhist temple and is regarded as one of the most iconic structures in the city. If you look closely you will notice that the wooden structure is balance on a stone pillar. The pagoda was built to resemble a lotus.

Things To Do In Hanoi: Culture

We really did not get a chance to do much as far as culture was concerned. Now that I look back I can think of two things from our travel itinerary that you can add to your list of things to do in Hanoi as far as culture is concerned.

7. The Water Puppet Show

A glimpse of the singers, musicians and the puppeteers.

I think the water puppet show was the only cultural experience that we had in Hanoi. It is a show that takes place almost every night. It depicts the life of the Vietnamese through songs and puppetry. The interesting part of the whole display is the fact that the performers use traditional Vietnamese instruments. I had never seen some of the instruments before.

Things To Do In Hanoi: The Old Quarter

Everyone invariable lands up moving about in Hanoi’s Old Quarter. Despite that I would still like to add it to my list of things to do in Hanoi because the Old Quarter has history and character. The Old Quarter is supposed to be the old part of Hanoi and it is a reflection of how the city functioned in the past.

So what are the things to do in Hanoi in the Old Quarter? Here were our favorite picks:

Wander around the old streets and admire the architecture
Go shopping at Dong Xuan Market.
Enjoy one of the tiny sidewalk cafes. They serve up some delicious food. You can even book a street food tour to explore this part of the things to do in Hanoi thoroughly.
Indulge in one of the many spas.
Take a walking tour of the Old Quarter.
Don’t forget about Hoan Kiem Lake.
While you are at it, don’t leave out the famous night market.

*These items on my things to do in Hanoi list reflect my observations about the places that people can experience the culture up close. They are the things that we did in the short time we spent in Hanoi.

8. The Lakes Of Hanoi

A glimpse at Hoam Kiem lake at night.

Hanoi has a couple of lakes that add to the city’s beauty and I would be remiss if I did not add it to our travel guide of Hanoi . Time is changing and a lot of the locals claim that the lakes are being polluted. You can even see signs of it when you visit them.

I find this really sad because they are beautiful and they are a part of the city’s heritage. We visited three lakes: Hoam Kiem Lake, West Lake and Truc Bac Lake. I would recommend stopping a while to see them.

Things To Do In Hanoi: What You Should Not Miss

There are a number of things that the city is famous for and it is only right that we include them as part of our Travel Guide of Hanoi. Despite our hectic schedule we managed to squeeze in a few of them. I just thought I would add it as a few tips in our two day travel guide.

9. Don’t Miss The Egg Coffee

I fell in love with the Egg coffee.

Egg coffee is famous in Hanoi. No matter wherever in Vietnam you go, it is said that the true flavor can only be found in Hanoi. I hadn’t heard about the egg coffee till I went to Cat Ba island in Hanoi. That to I wouldn’t have known about it if someone hadn’t mentioned it in passing. I loved the coffee so much that I tried getting it in other parts of Vietnam but all the coffee I had failed to meet muster.

Even if you aren’t fond of coffee, try some of the coffee shops around Hanoi. The Vietnamese coffee is legendry!

10. Street Food

Vietnamese pancakes are one of the cool vietnamese street food.

⭐️ Rating: 5/5 (2557 Reviews) Price: $28 per person Duration: 3 hours 📍 Meeting Point: 41 P. Lương Văn Can Details: Read more on Viator!

I was in love with the Vietnamese food . Even though we had just two days in Hanoi, I still managed to try a lot of the street food. In fact all the meals that we had in Hanoi were all at small stalls along the streets.

Sometimes heading out and entering these tiny shops feels intimidating. This could be because of the the language, because you aren’t sure what to order etc. Don’t worry. I totally understand. The nervousness however should not be a reason to miss out.

“Jenny was an excellent tour guide and we ate 9 different Vietnamese dishes which were so delicious! A must book when visiting Hanoi!” Amy ( read more reviews now! )

I would recommend booking one of the street food walking tours. Mind you, this is one of those tours that is perfect for all kinds of visitors because it allows you to join a local foodie who will take you to all the best parts of city. Trust me! Indulging in the local delicacies is one of the best things to do in Hanoi so make sure you book your tour in advance so it doesn’t sell out!

11. There Is Shopping For Everyone

I did not have much of time to explore but there is a lot of shopping opportunities. We were heading to Sapa so I wanted something warm to wear. So I browsed through the numerous jackets of that were available. Columbia and North Face jackets were available for real cheap.

I was looking at them because we were due to head out to Russia in the midst of winter and I needed warm clothes. Everything looked way too real to be true. It was later that I learned that most of the stuff was replicas. I finally bought a light jacket in Sapa but that was more because I did not have enough time to shop in Hanoi.

12. The Little Men Of Vietnam

One of the numerous tiny sculptures I found.

These cute little sculptures are hidden in different parts of the country. I first began to notice them in the Temple of Literature in Hanoi. They are small tiny replicas that are used as garden ornaments and depict a variety of different activities that the form a core part of the Vietnamese way of life. I just started calling them the little men of Vietnam and it one of my core memories here.

Travel Accessories That You Should Consider Packing

As with every part of the world, Vietnam poses its own set of challenges. That being said, as I was writing our Hanoi travel guide, I was thinking about all the travel accessories that one may need in the city. That’s why I drew up a quick list of accessories that you should consider.

Mosquito Repellent

Mosquito Repellent is one thing that I don’t travel in South East Asia without. Not everyone country has their mosquito problem under control. That means that if you don’t have a mosquito repellent at hand, you are probably going to be the target of numerous mosquito bites.

While that is annoying, what is scary is the fact that these mosquitoes carry a number of diseases that can put a serious damper on your vacation. Dengue and Malaria are two top diseases that can drive fear into a traveler’s heart. So stay safe and carry a repellent that suits you.

A Small First Aid Kit

I never leave home without a small first aid kit. Ensure that your kit contains Band-Aids and your usual daily medications. I carry enough for my entire trip and just a bit more. You never know when you may get delayed or if you misplace a strip of something that is important for you.

I would suggest scanning your prescription so that you can show it to the medical personnel if required. Don’t forget to include your medicines for an upset stomach and diarrhea. Many people don’t do too well with a change in diet. God forbid you develop diarrhea!

Hand Sanitizer

Sometimes the wash basins and the toilets are really unhygienic. It’s times like this that I am glad that I have tissues and hand sanitizer at hand. While I would not suggest lugging it all the way from home, you can buy stuff at the markets and chemists.

Mind you, you would still need it for airports and other modes of transportation along the way. Just make sure not to overpack.

I guess the sunscreen depends on which time of the year you visit Hanoi and how sensitive your skin is. Like mosquito repellent, sunscreen is another item that I don’t travel to South East Asia without. Shawn has had a couple of nasty sunburns and we have learned our lesson since then.

Ever since then I have been adding this as a tip in all our guides related to South East Asia. That’s how it made its way into our Hanoi Travel Guide.

Travel Itineraries

We spent only two days in the city. Two days may even be an overstatement. We however managed to cover a large amount of ground during the time we were there. We could have used either private or public transport but we chose to wander around the city by foot. It was doable and it definitely helped us understand how the city functioned.

I’ve used that information to draw up a short two day itinerary of Hanoi . I hope that helps other travelers plan their visit to Hanoi better.

Hanoi is a fascinating city. I feel bad that I had just two days in the city. I meant that I had to rush through everything instead of savoring the hum that is peculiar to Hanoi. All said and done, we were short of time.

With just three weeks to discover Vietnam, we could afford to spend just two days in Hanoi. I’m glad that we made the most of it. I hope this Hanoi travel guide helps you to plan your stop at Hanoi better.

Saturday 16th of September 2017

Egg coffee, huh, truth be told, it does not sound too very inviting, but as travellers, we know that things that sound somewhat weird are the ones that end up tasting the best. :) Cannot wait to try this.

The egg coffee was amazing! It tastes like tiramisu. I have to be honest though. One is all I could have at a time.

Sunday 3rd of September 2017

We spent 9 days in Hanoi and mainly spent that time wandering around the Old Quarter and Hoan Kiem Lake and eating. We loved it so much. Can't wait to explore more of Vietnam.

I have visited Hanoi a few years ago and fell in love with the city. I was fascinated by it. I remember arriving at 5 am, by train, and I had to walk from the old train station to the centre of the city. Even if it was so early the city was vibrant with locals starting their day, doing tai chi and dancing in the parks. I really want to go back because I didn't get a chance to see everything as I only had a few days in Hanoi, so your guide is very helpful!

Nina Danielle

I love the lakes! So beautiful. Vietnam is definitely somewhere that I want to go.

Saturday 2nd of September 2017

We're hopefully going to end up here sometime on our next trip so I will definitely be using this to plan! Loved that you included some packing accessories!

The 6 Best Hostels in Hanoi

A sunny day in Hanoi, Vietnam near the lake with a historic pagoda in the background

Hanoi is Vietnam’s vibrant capital city. It’s also one of its main travel hubs (most visitors either start or end their trip here).

While I didn’t love my first trip to Vietnam , the country is one of the most affordable in the region, brimming with amazing eats and stunning natural beauty. It’s also easy to navigate and has a well-worn travel trail running north to south.

But because Hanoi is part of the main route around Southeast Asia , it’s awash in hostels. I mean, there are tons of them here. And not all of them are created equal.

To help you pick a hostel from all the overwhelming options, here is my list of the best hostels in Hanoi!

If you don’t want to read the longer list, the following are the best in each category:

Want the specifics? Here’s my breakdown of the best hostels in Hanoi and why I love them:

Price Legend:

$ = Under 200,000 VND per night
$$ = 200,000-300,000 VND per night
$$$ = Over 300,000 VND per night

1. The One Hostel

A large dorm room with bunk beds at the One Hostel in Hanoi, Vietnam

The dorm rooms are spacious, and all bunks have individual fans (a big plus, as Hanoi gets hot), as well as curtains, USB chargers, and comfy mattresses. I especially like that the top bunks have angled ladders that are almost like stairs, so the bunk is easy to access. There are female-only dorms too. And while the water pressure in the showers isn’t great, everything is clean, and the volunteer staff here really make you feel welcome.

The One Hostel at a glance :

Pool, bar, and restaurant
Free breakfast
Live music every night

Beds from 251,000 VND.

Book here!

2. Old Quarter View

A clean abd bright dorm room with bunk beds at the Old Quarter View Hostel in Hanoi, Vietnam

While there’s no party atmosphere here, the hostel encourages travelers to hang out during the daily happy hour with free beer, on the free walking tours, and during a weekly cooking class (it’s not free, but it’s super cheap and you’ll learn a lot!). There’s also a great breakfast that’s really affordable (just 50,000 VND). Overall, this is a more upscale choice for travelers who want something within walking distance of all the main sights.

Old Quarter View at a glance :

Daily free happy hour
Clean and spacious dorm rooms
Very comfy beds

Beds from 384,000 VND.

3. Hanoi Central Backpackers Hostel

A handful of old bunk beds in a dorm room at Hanoi Central Backpackers hostel in Hanoi, Vietnam

The dorm rooms aren’t huge, and they look a bit dated, but the beds have curtains, individual lights and plugs, and lockers. The mattresses are also pretty comfy compared to most party hostels. But the highlight for me is the outdoor terrace area. It’s a nice place to relax with a drink after a long day of exploring.

Hanoi Central at a glance :

Super affordable
Lots of free perks (breakfast, beer, walking tours)
Party ends early so you can still sleep well

Beds from 152,000 VND, private rooms from 800,000 VND.

4. Hanoi Buffalo Hostel

A massive, spacious hostel dorm room at Hanoi Buffalo Hostel in Hanoi, Vietnam

The rooms aren’t anything to write home about (the bathrooms are a bit cramped and the dorms bunks are basic), but the beds have curtains, lights, outlets, and lockers. The staff here more than make up for the drawbacks though. They really go out of their way to make sure you have a good stay — they’re attentive and will solve any issues right away.

Hostel Buffalo at a glance :

Pool on-site
Organized day trips and tours
Free breakfast, free beer, and free tours

Beds from 120,000 VND, private rooms from 880,000 VND.

5. Mad Monkey

The busy exterior of the Mad Monkey party hostel in Hanoi, Vietnam

The dorm rooms aren’t huge, and the mattresses are a bit thin, but that’s standard for party hostels. I do appreciate that the beds have curtains though, and there are also lights, outlets, and lockers for each bed. The hostel also has AC, which is a must since it gets so hot here. The bathrooms are always clean, and the showers have decent pressure. If you want to party, stay here.

Mad Monkey at a glance :

Nightly parties and events
Female-only dorms
Free beer during happy hour

Beds from 201,000 VND, private rooms from 1,363,000 VND.

6. The Drift Backpackers Hostel

A big dorm room at the Drift Hostel in Hanoi, Vietnam

The dorm rooms are spacious, bright, and clean. I like that the mattresses are thick, and beds also have individual lights, outlets, lockers, and curtains. There are also female-only dorm rooms, as well as double beds for couples. The bathrooms aren’t particularly fancy, but they are clean and big enough. Plus, every dorm room has an en suite bathroom. Overall, it’s a great hostel for travelers looking for a quiet stay.

The Drift at a glance :

Laid-back and quiet
Expansive free buffet breakfast

Beds from 231,000 VND.

A hub of backpackers, expats, and foodies, Hanoi is a must-visit stop on any trip around Southeast Asia. Not only is it super affordable but there’s a ton to see and do here. Just be sure to stay in one of the hostels above and you’ll have a fun, affordable, and nice place to stay!

Book Your Trip to Hanoi: Logistical Tips and Tricks

Book Your Flight Use Skyscanner to find a cheap flight. They are my favorite search engine because they search websites and airlines around the globe so you always know no stone is left unturned.

Book Your Accommodation You can book your hostel with Hostelworld as they have the biggest inventory and best deals. If you want to stay somewhere other than a hostel, use Booking.com as they consistently return the cheapest rates for guesthouses and cheap hotels.

Don’t Forget Travel Insurance Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. My favorite companies that offer the best service and value are:

Safety Wing (best for everyone)
Insure My Trip (for those over 70)
Medjet (for additional evacuation coverage)

Looking for the Best Companies to Save Money With? Check out my resource page for the best companies to use when you travel. I list all the ones I use to save money when I’m on the road. They will save you money when you travel too.

Want More Information on Hanoi? Be sure to visit our robust destination guide on Hanoi for even more planning tips! Photo credits: 2 – The One Hostel , 3 – Old Quarter View , 4 – Hanoi Central Backpackers , 5 – Hanoi Buffalo Hostel , 6 – Mad Monkey , 7 – The Drift .

Hi, I’m Nomadic Matt, the New York Times best-selling author of How to Travel the World on $50 a Day and Ten Years a Nomad, as well as the founder of this website! And I’m here to help you save money on your next trip.

Got a comment on this article? Join the conversation on Facebook , Instagram , or Twitter and share your thoughts!

Disclosure: Please note that some of the links above may be affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you, I earn a commission if you make a purchase. I recommend only products and companies I use and the income goes to keeping the site community supported and ad free.

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We organize full day trip from Hanoi city to visit Ninh Binh to bring you a nice experience with the nature and local. Sitting on the paddle boat and enjoy unique feelings of landscape and nature. Beside of nice itinerary, you will enjoy high quality of service we will bring you. Hoa Lu - Tam Coc tour is always the first choice of everyone once they decide to go to Ninh Binh from Hanoi city.

8 days private adventure Cambodia – Best tour ever

The package is ideal for someone looking for a relax trip to adventure Cambodia in limited time with all activities such as scuba diving, beach time, discover the wonder Angkor Wat. This is the private tour, price is per person in group from 2. The surcharges are applied when you are solo.

4 days glance of Cambodia

A small package give you a smoothly touch to Cambodia by covering Phnom Penh and Seam Reap.

Special city tour of Hanoi – the unique experience

This is a special tour package Hanoi city organized by Hanoi Tour Planner. The full day city tour Hanoi bring you the unique experience, have a deep knowledge about historical of Vietnam, the culture, touch to the real soul of Hanoi city, typical Vietnamese cuisine .... You can't be found somewhere with the same quality. Please contact to know more about price and other details

Halong bay one day tour 8 hours

This is one of the most highlighted tours of Halong bay for everyone have a short vacation in Vietnam. By 8 hours tour Halong bay , you will enjoy the most beautiful nature places of Halong bay, taking amazing boat trip and activities such as kayaking , visiting floating villages, netting... Enjoy fresh seafood or local food. For sure, you will be happy with our premier customer service

8 days relax tour Cambodia – a combination

It is great combination between culture, historical and relax trip in Cambodia . From the trip, you will have a glance touch to historical of Cambodia including Siem Reap, Phnom Penh, enjoy the beautiful beach in Sihanoukville. The tour package is ideal for everyone loving Cambodia such as the family, group of friends or even Company's gala.

7 days Vietnam tour package for Group

You have group from 10 people? Easy. We can make you happy with the private travel package of Vietnam for group all inclusive. The tour package Vietnam 7 days to visit all the most beautiful places in Vietnam with Halong bay, Hanoi city, Hoi An and Golden Hand bridge. All service in the tour will be for your group only.

6 days history tour to Cambodia

A wonderful trip contents full history and the art of architecture of Khmer people from begining. From the package, you will have a new visions of Cambodian people as well as the heroic of Khmer.

7 days tour package Vietnam from the South Vietnam

This is an ideal travel package for someone have very short time to visit Vietnam. We supply glance 7 days tours in Vietnam with flight arrives Ho Chi Minh city. This travel package gives you the beautiful moments to visit Ho Chi Minh city, Mekong delta, Hanoi city and Halong bay. The travel package can be customized. Just give us an inquiry and we will make you happy.

Hanoi city – Ninh Binh – Sapa 5 days

The travel package 5 days North Vietnam to cover Hanoi city - Sapa - Ninh Binh 5 days will be the best for the group of friends, some family doing private tour. The sharing group tour is also available that you can customize. The tour will guide you to reach the best scenery with mountain adventure, trekking and enjoy special cuisines of Northern Vietnam tour .

10 Days tour Vietnam – Cambodia tours

This tour package to help you to discover the best senses of Vietnam and Cambodia tour in 10 days. It focuses to North Vietnam and Siem Reap tours including Hanoi city, Halong bay, Sapa, Ninh Binh and Siem Reap. The service will be beautiful, reasonable price and be taken care 24/7. Hanoi Tour Planner can be your best companion.

Halong Swan Cruise – Lan Ha Bay 4 star

15 days trip to Vietnam – Touch to nature

Give us the chance to make you happy throughout half of a month, make every single day of your Vietnam tour packages 15 days . Take your memorable trip with Hanoi Tour Planner to visit 3 parts of Vietnam including North, Central and South Vietnam. Enjoy beautiful nature, food, culture... Hanoi Tour Planner guarantees for the best value you get.

Stellar of the Seas cruise Halong bay – 5 star

Stellar of the Sea cruise is voted as the most beautiful cruise in Ha Long Bay until 2022. The cruise can meet all the strictest requirements for luxurious, quality of service as well as facilities and other criteria. We absolutely recommend everyone to choose this cruise if you need to find the most luxurious 5-star cruise with high-class service in Ha Long Bay.

Private cruise Halong bay 7 cabins

Keep away from the crowd, travel by your way are the things this option brings to you. Halong bay private cruise 7 cabins gives you the the unique experience to enjoy beautiful Halong bay with funny actitivies. It is specially ideal for the families, group of friends... looking for the amazing tours in Halong bay - Lan Ha bay - Cat Ba island with all inclusive packages.

Best of Angkor Wat – Khmer 5 days trip

The most wonderful trip for Angkor Wat, the highlight of highlighted trips for Angkor Wat. Hanoi Tour Planner opens the tour package for someone looking for all history and architecture of Cambodian people with the mysterious stories about the Kingdom. All secrets of Angkor Wat will be revealed just after 5 days of the package.

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The Best 10 Hanoi Tour Packages
The Special Hanoi Tour Packages. It's simple awesome and you won't believe it! Origin Vietnam's Hanoi tour packages offers visitor traveling in Hanoi- Thang Long capital for a while. It's a land chosen by many feudal dynasties, setting up a reign of the country. Hanoi today is famous for its 36 streets and many scenic spots, historic sites ...
The Perfect Hanoi Itinerary (2024) Travel Guide for Vietnam's Capital
To get here from Hanoi, travelers will need to take a roughly 70 minute car ride to a village followed by a 45 minute or so boat ride down the Yen River to a temple complex. From here, a path leads to another temple as well as a cable car station. perfume pagoda. perfume pagoda.
The PERFECT 3 Days in Hanoi Itinerary [2024 Guide]
With 3 days in Hanoi, you can check out the museums, parks, lakes, markets, and much more. In between all of the sightseeing, you can fill up on mouth-watering Vietnamese food. The country's famous coffee will keep you going during the day, while its dirt cheap draught beer will fuel your nights out. Now that you know a bit about the city and ...
Ultimate Hanoi Itinerary + Well-Crafted Travel Guide
Vietnam Travel Planning: All You Need to Plan Your Trip; Table Of Contents Hanoi Itinerary Overview; Hanoi Itinerary. Day 1 Hanoi Itinerary: Food, markets, and plenty of walking! ... Best Tours in Hanoi. There are plenty of fantastic things to do in Hanoi and many of them you can reach simply by walking around. Of them, you can book the tickets ...
Plan a Trip to Hanoi and Choosing What Sights to See
Choosing a tour style: privately-guided, in a group, or on your own. It's recommended that you choose a tour guide for your journey in Hanoi. He/she can plan a unique route for you, lead you to experience the most original parts of Vietnam, and solve the problem of being stuck in traffic jams in the downtown area.
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Hanoi Tour Planner guarantees for the best value you get. Book now. Best deal. 7 days tour package Vietnam from the South Vietnam $ This is an ideal travel package for someone have very short time to visit Vietnam. We supply glance 7 days tours in Vietnam with flight arrives Ho Chi Minh city. This travel package gives you the beautiful moments ...
3 Days in Hanoi: Your Perfect Hanoi Itinerary
Hanoi Old Quarter. Walking through Hanoi's Old Quarter swaps the serenity of the lake for a non-stop pulsation of scents, sights and sounds. This square kilometre of street food and street business used to stand behind wooden gates until as late as the 19 th century. Previously, the area was divided between 36 artisanal guilds, with each gathered around a temple or communal dinh dedicated to ...
3-Day Hanoi Itinerary: Best Places to Visit
Street Food Tour: Small-Group Hanoi Walking Food Tour; Motorbike Tour: Hanoi 4.5-Hour Vespa Tour; Day Trip: Ha Long Bay and Bai Tu Long Bay Luxury Boat Tour; OTHER SERVICES. Vietnam eVisa; Travel Insurance (with COVID cover) Airport Transfer; Vietnam eSIM; HANOI TRAVEL GUIDE. Before you visit Hanoi, be sure to check out our detailed Hanoi ...
Hanoi Itinerary: What To Do in Hanoi, Vietnam For 1 To 5 Days
7-Day Northern Vietnam Itinerary: Hanoi, Halong Bay and Sapa. A 1-Week Northern Vietnam Itinerary could easily be created by using our detailed 5-Day Hanoi Itinerary (with a recommended trip to Ninh Binh) and then including either a 2-night Halong Bay Cruise or 2-night Sapa Tour on the final two days.
Hanoi Tour Planner
Hanoi Tour Planner deserves your trust for great trips. Read more. Hanoi, Vietnam. Call. Email. Visit website. Contact. Suggest edits to improve what we show. Improve this listing. Similar Experiences. 2023. Full-Day Ninh Binh Highlights Tour from Hanoi. 3,034. Full-day Tours. from . $85.00. per adult.
Hanoi Itinerary: How to spend 7 days in Hanoi
How To Spend 7 Fantastic Days in Hanoi. Day 1: Relaxing and Exploring the Old Quarter. Day 2: Prisons and Murals - Hanoi Itinerary. Day 3: The Unique Ha Long Bay. Day 4: a Day of Museums- Hanoi Itinerary. Day 5: The Breathtaking Ninh Binh. Day 6: A Day of Sight Seeing - Hanoi Itinerary.
Hanoi Travel Guide: All you Need to Know for First Time Visitors
Hoa Lo Prison. Hanoi's Hoa Lo Prison otherwise known as the "Hanoi Hilton," is a popular attraction to visit in Hanoi. Hoa Lo Prison was built in the late 1800's by the occupying French. The purpose of the prison was for political prisoners. During the Vietnam War, this prison was used to keep US Prisoners of War.
Hanoi Tour Planner
Hanoi Tour Planner. 18 reviews. #301 of 611 Boat Tours & Water Sports in Hanoi. Cultural ToursHistorical & Heritage ToursBoat ToursPrivate ToursBus Tours. Open now. 9:00 AM - 8:00 PM. Write a review. See all photos. About.
The BEST Itinerary for 5 Days 4 Nights in Hanoi
Option 1: Hanoi 5 Days 4 Nights Relaxing Itinerary for sightseeing lovers. First day : Hanoi arrival. Second Day : Hanoi - Halong bay, overnight on cruise. Third Day : Halong bay - Hanoi, overnight in Hanoi. Fourth Day : Ninh Binh full day trip, overnight in Hanoi. Fifth Day : Hanoi departure.
Tour destinations
HANOI TOUR PLANNER. place 189 Nguyen Van Cu str, Hanoi city, Vietnam. call +84 9345 85 135. email [email protected]. Useful information
HANOI TOUR PLANNER
Hanoi Tour Planner deserves your trust for great trips. Read more. Hanoi, Vietnam. Call. Email. Visit website. Contact. Suggest edits to improve what we show. Improve this listing. Similar Experiences. 2023. Full-Day Ninh Binh Highlights Tour from Hanoi. 2,556. Full-day Tours. from . S$117.23. per adult.
HANOI TRAVEL GUIDE: Everything You Need To Plan A Trip To Hanoi
The Hanoi Travel guide seeks to help you to make the best use of your time spent in Hanoi. ... I'm glad that we made the most of it. I hope this Hanoi travel guide helps you to plan your stop at Hanoi better. Post navigation. 14 Really Cool Free Things To Do In Vienna. 11 Amazing Restaurants In Groningen That You Should Try Now!
Visit Hanoi: Travel Guide to Vietnam
Technically, Hanoi has two main seasons - rainy (May-Sept) and dry (Oct-Apr) - though it does experience variances in weather that can simulate the four seasons. For the most ideal weather, it's best to visit Hanoi in spring (Feb-Apr) or in the fall (Oct-Nov). FEB-APRIL: Spring is one of the best times to visit Hanoi.
About us
HANOI TOUR PLANNER. place 189 Nguyen Van Cu str, Hanoi city, Vietnam. call +84 9345 85 135. email [email protected] Useful information. About us; Frequently Asked Questions; Places to go; Be friendly and avoid; Explore. Action and volunteering; News and Press; Guest's gallery; Destinations info
Hanoi Tour Planner
Hanoi Tour Planner, Hanoi, Vietnam. 353 likes · 2 were here. Hanoi Tour Planner supplies travel packages to South East Asia (Vietnam, Laos, Cambodia) including t
The 6 Best Hostels in Hanoi (Updated 2024)
4. Hanoi Buffalo Hostel. This is a super cheap hostel in the Old Quarter that boasts a chill outdoor lounge area with a pool, perfect for relaxing after a long day of sightseeing. The staff also organize tours to all the main sights nearby, such as Ha Long Bay and Sapa.
Hanoi city
Hanoi has kept for itself a rich history and injuries from the war but Hanoi is very active with 70% of population under 40 years old so far. It's centre of economy, culture and politics of Vietnam. Location ; Hanoi is nested along Red River bank at northen part of Vietnam and it's surrounded 2 other rivers such as Kim Nguu and ToLich river.
Tours packages
HANOI TOUR PLANNER. place 189 Nguyen Van Cu str, Hanoi city, Vietnam. call +84 9345 85 135. email [email protected]. Useful information

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The Perfect Hanoi Itinerary (2024) Travel Guide for Vietnam’s Capital

Day 1 – Old Hanoi

French Quarter

Old Quarter

Day 2 – Monumental Hanoi

Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum

Presidential Palace and One Pillar Pagoda

Lunch at Quan An Ngon

Temple of Literature

Shopping and Cafes at Tay Ho

Sky High Views at Sky Lotte Observation Deck

Home-style Dinner at Tam Vi

Day 3 – Ha Long Bay & Other Excursions

Tam Coc / Hoa Lu

Perfume Pagoda

Travel Tips for Hanoi

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Ultimate Hanoi Itinerary + Well-Crafted Travel Guide

Day 3 Hanoi Itinerary: A relaxing day to end your trip full of culture, sights, and food

Hanoi Itinerary Overview

Hanoi Itinerary

1. Spend some time exploring the Old Quarter

2. Wander around Dong Xuan Market

3. Visit St Joseph’s Cathedral

4. Take a cooking class

5. Walk around Hoàn Kiếm Lake

6. Catch a show at Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre

Day 2 Hanoi Itinerary: A day to explore the city’s most cultural and historic attractions

1. Admire the iconic Train Street

2. Visit the Vietnam Military History Museum

3. Explore the Temple of Literature

4. Head to Ho Chi Minh’s Mausoleum

5. Wander around Hoa Lo Prison

1. Visit the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology

2. Admire the views from Lotte Center Hanoi

3. Visit Long Bien Train Bridge

4. End your time in Hanoi with some delicious food

Planning Your Trip to Hanoi

Where to Stay in Hanoi

Best Tours in Hanoi

Estimated Price for this Hanoi Itinerary

Best time to Visit Hanoi

Wh at to pack for your Hanoi itinerary

Hanoi Itinerary Conclusion

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