Day 1: Old Quarter and Hoan Kiem Lake
Morning: Start your Hanoi adventure in the heart of the city—the Old Quarter. This labyrinth of narrow streets is packed with colonial architecture, bustling markets, and street food vendors. Kick off the day with a traditional Vietnamese breakfast at Pho Gia Truyen, one of the city’s most famous pho spots. Slurp up a steaming bowl of beef noodle soup alongside locals before heading into the chaos of the Old Quarter.Wander through Ta Hien Street, known as “Beer Street,” though it’s quiet in the mornings, allowing you to admire the charming shophouses and cafes. Make a stop at the Bach Ma Temple, one of Hanoi’s oldest temples, before heading toward Dong Xuan Market, where you can browse an array of local goods, from spices to fabrics.
Afternoon: Stroll towards Hoan Kiem Lake, a peaceful oasis in the middle of Hanoi’s chaos. Take a break and grab a Vietnamese egg coffee at Cafe Giang, a hidden gem known for this rich, frothy treat.
Cross the iconic red bridge to visit Ngoc Son Temple, dedicated to a legendary Vietnamese general. The lake’s tranquil atmosphere offers a nice break before diving back into the city’s energy.Walk to Hanoi Train Street, a narrow alley where trains pass within inches of cafes and houses. Grab a coffee at a trackside café and watch as the train rumbles by—it’s a must-experience moment.
Evening: Spend the evening indulging in Hanoi’s street food. Try Banh Mi 25, a legendary spot for the Vietnamese sandwich, and end with a sweet treat at Kem Trang Tien, a local-favorite ice cream shop.
Save Tip: Hanoi is compact, and walking is the best way to take in the chaos and charm. When you’re tired, Grab (Vietnam’s Uber) is cheap, safe, and convenient.
Splurge Tip: End the night with drinks at The Summit Bar or Ne Cocktail Bar, two of Hanoi’s trendiest rooftop spots offering stunning city views and craft cocktails.
Day 2: French Quarter and Cultural Hanoi
Morning: Start early and head to the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, where you can see the preserved body of Vietnam’s revolutionary leader (arrive before 10 AM, as it closes early). Just nearby, explore the yellow-hued Presidential Palace and the humble Ho Chi Minh’s Stilt House, offering insight into the simple life of Vietnam’s most revered figure.
Walk over to the unique One Pillar Pagoda, an ancient Buddhist temple built in the shape of a lotus.
Afternoon: Visit the Temple of Literature, a stunning 11th-century university dedicated to Confucius. The peaceful courtyards and intricate pavilions make for a relaxing midday stop.
For lunch, head to Bun Cha Huong Lien, famous for serving the grilled pork and noodle dish that former U.S. President Obama enjoyed on his visit to Hanoi.Make your way to the Hoa Lo Prison, also known as the “Hanoi Hilton,” which tells the harrowing history of Vietnam’s colonial past and the American War.
Evening: Continue exploring the elegant French Quarter, where you’ll find European-style buildings like the grand Hanoi Opera House. Enjoy a leisurely coffee break at Metropole Hotel, a historic luxury hotel that has hosted famous guests like Charlie Chaplin.
Wrap up the day with a traditional Water Puppet Show at Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre, a cultural experience unique to northern Vietnam.
Dine at Quan An Ngon, where you can try a variety of regional Vietnamese dishes in a vibrant setting.
Save Tip: Grab a quick and affordable local meal at a street food stall instead of dining at a restaurant in the French Quarter. Although best to stick to cooked or fried food and avoid anything too exotic or uncooked.
Splurge Tip: Dine at Metropole’s fine-dining restaurant or enjoy a luxurious afternoon tea for more value-for-money.
Day 3: West Lake and Local Life
Morning: Begin your final day in Hanoi at the serene Tran Quoc Pagoda, the city’s oldest Buddhist temple, located on a small island in West Lake. Stroll around the lake’s banks, stopping at Quan Thanh Temple, another ancient religious site with beautiful carvings.Enjoy breakfast at Maison de Tet Decor, a charming lakeside café known for its healthy, organic options and great coffee.
Afternoon: If you’re interested in learning about Vietnam’s diverse ethnic groups, visit the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology, which showcases traditional houses and cultural artifacts from the country’s 54 ethnic minorities.Alternatively, take a short trip to Bat Trang Pottery Village, where you can try your hand at making ceramics and shop for unique souvenirs.
Evening: Return to Hanoi and hunt for souvenirs at Hang Gai Street, known for silk products, or Lotte Center’s observation deck for a panoramic city view.
For a final meal in Hanoi, visit Chim Sao, a rustic eatery serving traditional northern Vietnamese home-style dishes.
Save Tip: Explore West Lake by renting a bicycle instead of taking a taxi or motorbike.
Splurge Tip: Indulge in a luxury spa treatment at one of Hanoi’s top wellness centers, such as La Spa or Anam QT Spa.
Day 4: Halong Bay
Depart early (around 7 AM) for a day trip to Halong Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its emerald waters and dramatic limestone karsts. The drive takes about 2.5-3 hours.
Board a traditional junk boat for a cruise through the breathtaking bay. Most tours include a seafood lunch onboard and stops at famous sites like Sung Sot Cave (Surprise Cave) and Titop Island, where you can hike for panoramic views or swim in the bay.
Kayaking through the limestone formations is also a highlight of the trip.
Head back to Hanoi in the late afternoon, arriving by evening. Enjoy a relaxed final dinner at Home Hanoi Restaurant, known for its refined Vietnamese cuisine. Visit Dong Xuan Market and Night Market in the Old Quarter for last minute shopping.
Save Tip: Bargaining is expected at night markets, so don’t be shy—start at 50% of the asking price and work from there.
Splurge Tip: Book an Overnight Luxury Cruise in Halong Bay for an up-close experience of this magnificent bay. The magic starts from dusk where one can witness a stunning sunset and continues on in the evening with the mesmerising sight of glittering boats docked in the middle of the sea.
The best way to explore Hanoi is on scooter. You escape the traffic while having a truly unique experience. There are private guided tours on scooter (don’t worry you will ride behind the guide on the scooter) and the costs are quite reasonable.