Hanoi-3-day-itinerary

3-Day Itinerary for Travelling in Hanoi

Day 1: Exploring the Old Quarter and French Colonial Architecture

Morning

  • Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum: Start your day with a visit to the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, a grand monument dedicated to Vietnam’s founding father. (Open from 8am to 11am, entrance fee: VND 25,000)
  • Ba Dinh Square: Take a short walk to Ba Dinh Square, a historic site where many important events have taken place.

Afternoon

  • Old Quarter: Explore the narrow streets and alleys of Hanoi’s Old Quarter, taking in the sights and sounds of traditional Vietnamese architecture.
  • St. Joseph’s Cathedral: Visit this beautiful Catholic cathedral, built in 1886, and admire its stunning Gothic Revival architecture.

Evening

  • Dinner at Cha Ca La Vong: Try some delicious grilled fish at this popular restaurant, a Hanoi institution since 1991. (Address: 14 Cha Ca St, Hoan Kiem)
  • Water Puppet Show: Catch a traditional water puppet show at the Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre, a unique and entertaining experience. (Address: 57B Dinh Tien Hoang St, Hoan Kiem)

Day 2: Cultural Experiences and Local Cuisine

Morning

  • Temple of Literature: Visit this ancient temple, dedicated to Confucius and Vietnam’s rich literary history. (Entrance fee: VND 30,000)
  • Vietnamese Coffee: Stop by a local café to try some traditional Vietnamese coffee, brewed in a small metal filter.

Afternoon

  • Museum of Ethnology: Learn about Vietnam’s diverse ethnic groups at this fascinating museum, featuring interactive exhibits and traditional architecture. (Entrance fee: VND 40,000)
  • Lunch at Banh Xeo Muoi Xiem: Try some delicious crispy rice flour pancakes at this popular street food stall. (Address: 22 Hang Bac St, Hoan Kiem)

Evening

  • Dinner at Highway4: Enjoy modern Vietnamese cuisine at this trendy restaurant, known for its creative dishes and extensive cocktail menu. (Address: 25 Bat Su St, Hoan Kiem)
  • Explore the Night Market: Browse the stalls selling everything from souvenirs to clothing at the bustling Hanoi Night Market.

Day 3: Nature Escapes and Local Markets

Morning

  • Ho Tay Lake: Take a scenic drive to Ho Tay Lake, a peaceful retreat surrounded by lush greenery. Rent a bike or take a leisurely stroll around the lake.
  • Flower Market: Visit the vibrant Flower Market, where you can find an array of colorful blooms and plants.

Afternoon

  • Tran Quoc Pagoda: Explore this beautiful Buddhist pagoda, situated on a small island in Ho Tay Lake. (Entrance fee: VND 10,000)
  • Lunch at KOTO: Enjoy healthy and delicious Vietnamese cuisine at this social enterprise restaurant, supporting local street kids. (Address: 59 Van Mieu St, Dong Da)

Evening

  • Dinner at Xoi Yen: Try some authentic Northern Vietnamese dishes at this cozy restaurant, known for its flavorful food and rustic atmosphere. (Address: 35 Nguyen Sieu St, Hoan Kiem)
  • Return to the Old Quarter: End your trip with a relaxing evening stroll around the Old Quarter, taking in the sights and sounds of Hanoi’s vibrant streets.

Accommodation

  • Hanoi La Siesta Hotel & Spa: A stylish boutique hotel located in the heart of the Old Quarter, offering comfortable rooms and excellent service. (Address: 12 Nguyen Quang Bich St, Hoan Kiem)
  • Hanoi Imperial Hotel: A luxurious hotel featuring elegant rooms, a rooftop pool, and stunning city views. (Address: 44 Hang Hanh St, Hoan Kiem)

Transportation

  • Taxis: Hanoi has an abundance of taxis, but be sure to use reputable companies like Vinasun or Mai Linh.
  • Xe Om: Hire a motorbike taxi for shorter journeys, a fun and affordable way to explore the city.
  • Walking: Hanoi’s Old Quarter is easily explored on foot, allowing you to take in the sights and sounds of the city.

Tips

  • Dress modestly: When visiting temples or pagodas, dress respectfully and avoid revealing clothing.
  • Bargain at markets: Be prepared to haggle when shopping at local markets, it’s all part of the fun!
  • Try street food: Hanoi is famous for its delicious street food, be adventurous and try some local specialties like banh mi or bun cha.

Other Things of Interest

  • Vietnamese Language: Take a language class to learn some basic Vietnamese phrases, enhancing your travel experience.
  • Day Trips: Consider taking day trips to nearby destinations like Ha Long Bay, Ninh Binh, or Sapa.
  • Cultural Workshops: Join a cultural workshop to learn about traditional Vietnamese crafts, such as woodworking or silk weaving.