Hanoi Vietnam 6 Day Itinerary

Hanoi 6-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and Exploration

Morning

  • Arrive at Noi Bai International Airport (HAN)
  • Take a taxi or bus to your hotel in the Old Quarter
  • Check-in to your hotel and freshen up
  • Visit the nearby Hoan Kiem Lake, a peaceful oasis in the heart of the city
  • Explore the surrounding streets, filled with street food stalls, souvenir shops, and local markets

Afternoon

  • Head to Trang Tien Street for a stroll along the lake and enjoy the local coffee culture at cafes like Café Pho Co
  • Visit the Vietnamese Women’s Museum, showcasing the country’s rich cultural heritage
  • Wander through the Old Quarter, taking in the sights, sounds, and smells of this historic area

Evening

  • Enjoy a traditional Vietnamese dinner at Cha Ca La Vong, a local institution serving up delicious fish dishes
  • Take in a water puppet show at Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre

Accommodation: Consider staying at hotels like La Siesta Hotel & Spa or Hanoi Imperial Hotel, both located in the Old Quarter

Tips:

  • Be prepared for chaotic streets and aggressive traffic
  • Try to avoid traveling during peak hours (7-9 am, 4-6 pm)
  • Learn some basic Vietnamese phrases to show respect and appreciation for the local culture

Day 2: Cultural Immersion

Morning

  • Visit the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, a grand tribute to Vietnam’s founding father
  • Explore the adjacent Presidential Palace, a beautiful example of French colonial architecture
  • Stop by the One Pillar Pagoda, a historic temple with stunning gardens

Afternoon

  • Delve into Vietnamese history at the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology
  • Discover local art and crafts at the Hanoi Contemporary Arts Centre

Evening

  • Savor a delicious dinner at Bun Cha Huong Lien, serving up classic Hanoi dishes
  • Enjoy a traditional Vietnamese music performance at Nhà Hàng Đình

Day 3: Day Trip to Ha Long Bay

Morning

  • Take an early bus or taxi to Ha Long Bay (approximately 3.5 hours)
  • Board a cruise ship and explore the stunning limestone karsts of Ha Long Bay
  • Kayak or swim in the emerald waters

Afternoon

  • Visit hidden caves, such as Thien Cung Cave, and marvel at the bay’s natural beauty
  • Enjoy a seafood lunch on board

Evening

  • Return to Hanoi in the evening and enjoy a street food dinner at Bia Hoi Junction

Tips:

  • Book your Ha Long Bay trip in advance to ensure availability
  • Be prepared for variable weather conditions
  • Don’t forget sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat

Day 4: Local Life and Markets

Morning

  • Visit the bustling Dong Xuan Market, offering everything from souvenirs to clothing
  • Explore the vibrant Flower Market, filled with colorful blooms
  • Stop by the St. Joseph’s Cathedral, a beautiful example of French colonial architecture

Afternoon

  • Take a cooking class at Hanoi Cooking Centre and learn about Vietnamese cuisine
  • Visit the Temple of Literature, Vietnam’s oldest university

Evening

  • Enjoy a family dinner at Home Restaurant, serving up modern Vietnamese dishes
  • Explore the night market at Hang Dao Street

Day 5: Day Trip to Ninh Binh

Morning

  • Take an early bus or taxi to Ninh Binh Province (approximately 2 hours)
  • Visit the stunning Trang An Grottoes, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
  • Explore the ancient capital of Vietnam, Hoa Lu

Afternoon

  • Enjoy a delicious lunch at a local restaurant
  • Take a bike ride or walk through the picturesque countryside

Evening

  • Return to Hanoi in the evening and enjoy a farewell dinner at Green Tangerine

Tips:

  • Book your Ninh Binh trip in advance to ensure availability
  • Wear comfortable shoes for hiking and biking
  • Don’t forget insect repellent and sunscreen

Day 6: Departure

Morning

  • Spend the morning shopping for last-minute souvenirs or exploring a local market
  • Visit the Hanoi Opera House, a stunning example of French colonial architecture

Afternoon

  • Check-out of your hotel and head to Noi Bai International Airport (HAN) for your departure flight

Transportation:

  • Taxi: Mai Linh Taxi (+84 4 3826 2626) or Vinasun Taxi (+84 4 3827 2727)
  • Bus: Hanoi Transportation Corporation (+84 4 3829 2929)
  • Walking and cycling are also great ways to explore the city

Things to Know:

  • Vietnam uses the Vietnamese dong (VND); exchange rates can be found at local banks or currency exchanges
  • The local language is Vietnamese; learn basic phrases like “xin chào” (hello) and “cảm ơn” (thank you)
  • Respect local customs and traditions, especially when visiting temples or cultural sites

Tips:

  • Be mindful of pickpocketing in crowded areas and tourist hotspots
  • Bargain when shopping at markets; it’s a local custom
  • Try to avoid traveling during peak holiday seasons (e.g. Tet Lunar New Year)