Hanoi-4-day-itinerary

November 8, 2024

Hanoi 4-Day Itinerary

Accommodation: Check-in at Hanoi La Siesta Hotel & Spa or similar.
Breakfast: Try a traditional Vietnamese breakfast at Café Pho Co - 11 Hang Gai Street.

Hoan Kiem Lake & Ngoc Son Temple: Visit the peaceful lake and temple in the heart of the city.
Old Quarter Walking Tour: Explore the narrow streets and alleys of Hanoi’s historic district, discovering local markets, shops, and street food.

Dinner: Savor Vietnamese cuisine at Bun Cha Huong Lien - 24 Le Van Huu Street.
Water Puppet Show: Enjoy a traditional Vietnamese performance at Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre.

Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum & Museum: Visit the final resting place of Vietnam’s founding father and learn about his life and legacy.
One Pillar Pagoda: Explore this historic Buddhist temple, one of Hanoi’s most iconic landmarks.

Vietnamese Coffee Experience: Learn about coffee culture at Café Dinh - 13 Dinh Liet Street.
Hanoi Opera House: Admire the stunning French-colonial architecture of this historic building.

Dinner: Enjoy street food at Tong Duy Tan - a popular night market with various stalls.
Bia Hoi Junction: Relax with a cold beer and people-watch at this bustling intersection.

Ha Long Bay Cruise: Take an early morning bus (around 3.5 hours) or book a private car to Ha Long City, then board a cruise ship for a day of exploring the stunning limestone karsts and emerald waters.

Kayaking or Swimming: Get up close and personal with Ha Long Bay’s natural beauty.
Seafood Lunch: Feast on fresh seafood onboard the cruise ship.

Return to Hanoi: Head back to the city, reflecting on an unforgettable day in Ha Long Bay.
Dinner: Try Cha Ca La Vong - 14 Cha Ca Street, a legendary fish restaurant.

Dong Xuan Market: Visit this bustling marketplace to see the daily lives of Hanoi’s residents.
Temple of Literature: Explore Vietnam’s oldest university and temple complex, dedicated to Confucius.

Lunch: Enjoy a farewell meal at KOTO - 59 Van Mieu Street, a social enterprise supporting local youth.
Departure: Head to Noi Bai International Airport for your onward journey.

Airport Transfer: Book a private car or shuttle service from the airport to your hotel.
Local Transport: Use taxis, Grab (similar to Uber), or walk/cycle around the Old Quarter.

Visa: Check if you need a visa to enter Vietnam and apply in advance.
Currency: Vietnamese Dong (VND); exchange currency upon arrival or use ATMs.
Weather: Hanoi can be hot and humid; pack light, breathable clothing and sunscreen.
Respect Local Culture: Dress modestly when visiting temples and pagodas; remove your shoes when entering homes or temples.
Bargain: Expect to haggle at local markets; it’s part of the fun!
Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water and avoid tap water.

Hanoi Street Food Tour: Join a guided tour to sample the city’s best street eats.
Vietnamese Cooking Class: Learn how to prepare traditional dishes at a local cooking school.
Day Trip to Ninh Binh: Explore the stunning Trang An Grottoes and ancient capital, Hoa Lu.

Remember to stay flexible, be open-minded, and enjoy the vibrant energy of Hanoi!