Hanoi, Vietnam-2-day-itinerary

Hanoi, Vietnam: A 2-Day Itinerary

Day 1

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-11am (closed on Mondays and Fridays).
  • One Pillar Pagoda: Take a short stroll to the nearby One Pillar Pagoda, a beautiful Buddhist temple built in 1049.

Afternoon

  • Lunch at Cha Ca Thang Long: Head to this popular restaurant for a delicious lunch of traditional Vietnamese cuisine. Try their famous grilled fish with turmeric and dill.
  • Old Quarter Walking Tour: Explore the charming streets of Hanoi’s Old Quarter, taking in the vibrant atmosphere and admiring the ancient architecture.

Evening

  • Dinner at Banh Xeo Muong Thanh: Savor a mouth-watering dinner of crispy banh xeo (rice flour pancake) at this local eatery.
  • Water Puppet Show: Catch a mesmerizing water puppet show at Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre, showcasing Vietnam’s traditional art form.

Day 2

Morning

  • Hoan Kiem Lake and Ngoc Son Temple: Begin the day with a leisurely walk around Hoan Kiem Lake, then visit the picturesque Ngoc Son Temple situated on a small island.
  • Dong Xuan Market: Browse through the bustling Dong Xuan Market, offering a wide range of local goods and souvenirs.

Afternoon

  • Lunch at Pho 10: Enjoy a steaming bowl of Vietnam’s national dish, pho, at this popular eatery.
  • Vietnam Museum of Ethnology: Visit this fascinating museum showcasing Vietnam’s rich cultural heritage and diverse ethnic groups.

Evening

  • Dinner at Highway4: Treat yourself to a modern Vietnamese dinner at Highway4, known for its creative fusion dishes.
  • Night Market: End your day with a visit to the lively Night Market, offering a wide range of street food, souvenirs, and local products.

Accommodation

  • Hanoi La Siesta Hotel & Spa: Relax in comfort at this stylish hotel, located in the heart of Hanoi’s Old Quarter.
  • Hanoi Imperial Hotel: Enjoy luxurious amenities and stunning views of Hoan Kiem Lake from this centrally-located hotel.

Things to Know

  • Dress modestly: Respect local customs by covering your shoulders and knees when visiting temples or pagodas.
  • Traffic safety: Be mindful of Hanoi’s chaotic traffic, using pedestrian crossings and avoiding motorbike rides if possible.
  • Haggling: Expect to haggle at markets, but be respectful and fair in your negotiations.

Transportation

  • Taxis: Use reputable taxi companies like Vinasun or Mai Linh for safe and reliable transportation.
  • Xe Om: Hire a motorbike driver (xe om) for a fun and affordable way to explore Hanoi’s streets.
  • Walking: Explore the Old Quarter on foot, taking in the sights and sounds of this charming area.

Tips

  • Learn some Vietnamese phrases: Greet locals with “xin chào” (hello) and show appreciation with “cảm ơn” (thank you).
  • Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water and avoid dehydration in Hanoi’s humid climate.
  • Be prepared for crowds: Popular attractions can be busy, so plan ahead and be patient.

Other Things of Interest

  • Cooking Classes: Learn the art of Vietnamese cuisine with a cooking class at institutions like Hanoi Cooking Centre or Vietnam Cookery School.
  • Day Trips: Consider visiting nearby destinations like Ha Long Bay, Sapa, or Ninh Binh for stunning natural beauty and cultural experiences.

Enjoy your time in enchanting Hanoi!