Hanoi Vietnam 7 Day Itinerary

7-Day Itinerary for Travelling in Hanoi, Vietnam

Day 1: Arrival and Exploration of the Old Quarter

  • Morning: Arrive at Noi Bai International Airport and take a taxi or bus to your hotel in the Old Quarter.
  • Afternoon: Visit the Hoan Kiem Lake and Ngoc Son Temple, then explore the nearby Dong Xuan Market for some local shopping.
  • Evening: Enjoy traditional Vietnamese cuisine at Bun Cha Huong Lien (34 Hang Gai St) or try some street food at Ta Hien Street.

Accommodation: Stay at a hotel in the Old Quarter, such as Hanoi Imperial Hotel or Hanoi La Siesta Hotel.

Day 2: Cultural Experiences

  • Morning: Visit the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology to learn about Vietnam’s diverse cultures.
  • Afternoon: Watch a traditional water puppet show at Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre.
  • Evening: Enjoy a traditional Vietnamese music performance at Hanoi Opera House.

Food: Try some local coffee at Cafe Pho Co (11 Hang Gai St) or enjoy a romantic dinner at La Badiane (10 Nam Ngu St).

Day 3: Ha Long Bay Cruise

  • Morning: Take an early bus to Ha Long Bay (around 3.5 hours).
  • Afternoon: Embark on a Ha Long Bay cruise, exploring the stunning limestone karsts and caves.
  • Evening: Enjoy fresh seafood dinner on board.

Cruise: Choose a reputable company like Halong Bay Cruises or Paradise Cruises.

Day 4: Ha Long Bay to Ninh Binh

  • Morning: Return to Hanoi, then take a bus to Ninh Binh (around 2 hours).
  • Afternoon: Visit the Trang An Grottoes, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
  • Evening: Enjoy local cuisine at Chateau de Ninh Binh.

Accommodation: Stay overnight in Ninh Binh, such as Ninh Binh Hidden Charm Hotel or Emeralda Resort Ninh Binh.

Day 5: Hoa Lu and Tam Coc

  • Morning: Visit the ancient capital of Hoa Lu, exploring the temples and ruins.
  • Afternoon: Take a sampan boat trip along the Tam Coc River, surrounded by limestone cliffs.
  • Evening: Return to Hanoi (around 2 hours).

Food: Try some local specialties like Com Chay (grilled pork with rice) or Bun Dau Mam Tom (noodles with shrimp and pork).

Day 6: Hanoi’s Surroundings

  • Morning: Visit the Bat Trang Ceramic Village, learning about traditional pottery-making.
  • Afternoon: Explore the Van Phuc Riverside, enjoying the scenic views.
  • Evening: Enjoy a farewell dinner at Quan An Ngon (18 Hang Gai St), serving Vietnamese street food.

Transportation: Take taxis or buses to travel between destinations.

Day 7: Departure

  • Morning: Spend some time shopping for souvenirs or exploring the Old Quarter.
  • Afternoon: Depart for Noi Bai International Airport and fly back home.

Tips and Essentials

  • Weather: Hanoi’s climate is humid and hot during summer, cool and dry during winter. Pack accordingly.
  • Currency: Vietnamese Dong (VND). You can exchange currency at banks or use ATMs.
  • Language: Vietnamese is the official language, but many locals speak English. Learn some basic phrases like “Xin chào” (hello) and “Cảm ơn” (thank you).
  • Safety: Be mindful of pickpocketing in crowded areas and traffic safety when crossing roads.

Other Things to Know

  • Tipping culture: Tipping is not expected but appreciated.
  • Dress modestly: Cover your shoulders and knees when visiting temples or pagodas.
  • Respect local customs: Remove your shoes when entering temples or homes, and avoid public displays of affection.

This itinerary provides a mix of cultural experiences, natural beauty, and delicious food. Enjoy your trip to Hanoi!