Hanoi

Hanoi charms with its lakes, ancient pagodas, and colonial remnants. Wander around the Old Quarter, relax by Hoan Kiem Lake, and learn about the nation’s past at the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum. Experience the city’s flavors with a bowl of pho from a street-side stall.

Chapters

Hanoi Guide
Where to Stay
Best Season
Local Tips

Local Tips

Highlights:

• Old Quarter
• Hoan Kiem Lake
• Water Puppet Theatre
• Temple of Literature
• Street food tours

Lowlights:

• Chaotic traffic
• Air pollution
• Noise levels


Currency: –
Festivities: –

Hanoi Guide

Guide for 1 Day

Morning

  • Start your day with a delicious local breakfast at Pho Gia Truyen, known for its flavorful and authentic pho noodle soup. Whether you prefer beef or chicken, this eatery will satisfy your taste buds with its aromatic broth and fresh ingredients.
  • Explore the vibrant Old Quarter and its bustling streets filled with shops, markets, and traditional architecture. Immerse yourself in the local culture as you navigate through the narrow alleyways and experience the sights, sounds, and smells of Hanoi’s historic heart.
  • Discover the iconic Hoan Kiem Lake, a serene oasis in the heart of the city. Take a leisurely stroll around the lake, admire the picturesque Turtle Tower, and visit the Ngoc Son Temple perched on a small island. The lake is surrounded by beautiful parks, making it an ideal spot for relaxation and people-watching.

Midday

  • Savor a satisfying lunch at Bun Cha Huong Lien, a popular restaurant known for its mouthwatering bun cha, a traditional Vietnamese dish of grilled pork served with rice noodles and fresh herbs. This local haunt gained international fame when it was visited by former US President Barack Obama during his visit to Hanoi.
  • Take a short walk to the Hanoi Ceramic Mosaic Mural, a unique art installation that stretches over 4 kilometers. Marvel at the intricate ceramic tiles depicting various scenes from Vietnamese history and culture. This hidden gem is a must-see for art enthusiasts and history buffs alike.

Afternoon

  • Visit the Temple of Literature, Vietnam’s oldest university and a symbol of Hanoi’s intellectual and cultural heritage. Explore the well-preserved temple complex, admire the traditional Vietnamese architecture, and learn about the country’s rich scholarly history.
  • Experience the sights, sounds, and flavors of a local market at Dong Xuan Market. Browse through the stalls selling everything from fresh produce to clothing and souvenirs. This bustling market offers a glimpse into the everyday life of Hanoi’s residents and is a great place to pick up unique gifts and souvenirs.

Evening

  • Indulge in a delectable dinner at Cha Ca La Vong, a legendary restaurant known for its specialty dish, cha ca. Grilled fish marinated in turmeric and served with dill, peanuts, and vermicelli noodles, this iconic Hanoi dish is a true culinary delight.
  • Experience the vibrant nightlife of Hanoi at Ta Hien Street, also known as “Beer Street.” Join the locals and fellow travelers as you enjoy a cold glass of bia hoi, a fresh and light Vietnamese beer, at one of the lively bars lining the street.
  • End your day with a traditional water puppet show at Thang Long Water Puppet Theater.

Guide for 2 Days

Day 1

Morning

  • Start your day with a delicious local breakfast at Bún Chả Hương Liên, a popular restaurant known for its grilled pork and fresh herbs.
  • Visit the iconic Hoan Kiem Lake and take a leisurely stroll around the scenic lake.
  • Discover the rich history of Hanoi at the Hanoi Opera House, a stunning architectural masterpiece.

Midday

  • Indulge in a traditional Vietnamese lunch at Pho Gia Truyen, a famous noodle shop loved by locals.
  • Explore the vibrant Old Quarter and immerse yourself in the bustling atmosphere of the narrow streets filled with shops and street vendors.

Afternoon

  • Experience the tranquility of the Temple of Literature, Vietnam’s first national university and a symbol of the country’s rich educational heritage.
  • Discover the hidden gem of Ba Dinh Square, where you can find important historical landmarks such as the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and Presidential Palace.

Evening

  • Enjoy a delectable dinner at Cha Ca La Vong, a famous restaurant specializing in grilled fish with turmeric and dill.
  • Unwind at the trendy Standing Bar, a popular spot for craft beers and creative cocktails.
  • Experience the vibrant nightlife of Hanoi at Ta Hien Street, known as the “Beer Street” where you can enjoy local beers and street food.

Day 2

Morning

  • Start your day with a traditional Vietnamese breakfast at Pho Thin, known for its delicious beef pho.
  • Immerse yourself in the local culture at the Long Bien Market, a bustling market where you can find a wide variety of fresh produce and local products.
  • Explore the charming West Lake, the largest freshwater lake in Hanoi, and enjoy the scenic views.

Midday

  • Savor a flavorful lunch at Bun Bo Nam Bo, a popular restaurant specializing in beef noodles with herbs and peanuts.
  • Discover the hidden gem of Tran Quoc Pagoda, the oldest Buddhist temple in Hanoi, located on a small island in West Lake.

Afternoon

  • Visit the fascinating Ho Chi Minh Museum, dedicated to the life and achievements of Vietnam’s beloved leader.
  • Explore the unique architecture of the St. Joseph’s Cathedral, a beautiful Catholic church in the heart of Hanoi.

Evening

  • Indulge in a scrumptious dinner at Quan An Ngon, a renowned restaurant offering a wide range of traditional Vietnamese dishes.
  • Experience the lively atmosphere of the Ta Hien Night Market, where you can find a variety of street food, souvenirs, and local products.
  • Sip on a refreshing cocktail at Polite & Co.

Guide for 3 Days

Day 1

Morning

  • Start your day with a traditional Vietnamese breakfast at Pho Thin, a popular local noodle shop.
  • Explore the bustling streets of the Old Quarter, known for its narrow lanes and vibrant markets.
  • Visit the iconic Hoan Kiem Lake, a serene oasis in the heart of the city.

Midday

  • Indulge in a delicious lunch at Bun Cha Huong Lien, where you can savor the famous Hanoi dish, bun cha.
  • Discover the hidden gem of Hang Da Market, a local market offering a variety of goods and street food.

Afternoon

Evening

  • Enjoy a mouthwatering dinner at Cha Ca La Vong, a renowned restaurant serving grilled fish with turmeric and dill.
  • Sip on craft cocktails at Mad Botanist, a trendy bar with a botanical-themed setting.
  • Experience the vibrant nightlife at the Ta Hien Street, known as the “beer street” among locals and travelers.

Day 2

Morning

  • Start your day with a traditional Vietnamese breakfast at Quan Com Pho Cuon, a local eatery specializing in pho cuon (rolled pho noodles).
  • Explore the tranquil beauty of West Lake, the largest lake in Hanoi.
  • Visit the historic St. Joseph’s Cathedral, a stunning neo-Gothic church in the heart of the city.

Midday

  • Savor a delightful lunch at Banh Mi 25, a popular spot for Vietnamese baguette sandwiches.
  • Discover the hidden gem of Long Bien Bridge, an iconic bridge with a fascinating history.

Afternoon

  • Visit the unique Train Street, a narrow railway track surrounded by houses and cafes.
  • Explore the vibrant Dong Xuan Market, the largest covered market in Hanoi.

Evening

  • Enjoy a delicious dinner at Quan An Ngon, a Vietnamese restaurant offering a wide variety of local dishes.
  • Relax and unwind at Én Tea House & Bar, a cozy tea house by day and a stylish bar by night.
  • Experience a traditional water puppet show at Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre, showcasing Vietnam’s cultural heritage.

Day 3

Morning

  • Start your day with a traditional Vietnamese breakfast at Banh Cuon Gia Truyen, a famous eatery specializing in steamed rice rolls.
  • Explore the vibrant street art scene in the Hoan Kiem District, filled with colorful murals and graffiti.
  • Visit the historic Hoa Lo Prison, also known as the “Hanoi Hilton,” a former prison turned museum.

Midday

  • Indulge in a delicious lunch at Quan An Ngon, where you can sample a variety of Vietnamese street food.
  • Discover the hidden gem of Hang Ma Street, a street known for its festive decorations and traditional crafts.

Afternoon

  • Explore the tranquil beauty of the Tran Quoc Pagoda, the oldest Buddhist temple in Hanoi.
  • Visit the Women’s Museum, showcasing the role of women in Vietnam’s history and culture.

Evening

  • Enjoy a scrumptious dinner at Cha Ca Thang Long, a renowned restaurant serving grilled fish with turmeric and dill.
  • Sip on craft beers at Puku Café & Bar, a popular spot for locals and expats.
  • Experience the lively atmosphere at the Night Market in the Old Quarter, where you can shop for souvenirs and try local street food.

Guide for 5 Days

Day 1

Morning

  • Start your day with a delicious traditional Vietnamese breakfast at Bún Chả Hương Liên, a popular local eatery.
  • Explore the vibrant and bustling streets of the Old Quarter, known for its narrow lanes and charming architecture.
  • Immerse yourself in the rich history of Hanoi at the Hỏa Lò Prison, a former prison turned museum.

Midday

  • Indulge in a flavorful bowl of pho for lunch at Phở Thìn, a renowned pho restaurant.
  • Visit the beautiful Temple of Literature, Vietnam’s first national university.

Afternoon

  • Discover the hidden gem of Long Biên Bridge, an iconic historic bridge offering scenic views of the Red River.
  • Take a leisurely walk around the tranquil Hoan Kiem Lake, located in the heart of the city.

Evening

  • Savor a delectable dinner at Quán Ẩm Thực Ngon, a restaurant serving a variety of Vietnamese dishes.
  • Enjoy a refreshing cocktail at the trendy rooftop bar Pukin’ Dogs.
  • Experience the local nightlife at the lively Ta Hien Street, known for its street food stalls and lively atmosphere.

Day 2

Morning

  • Start your morning with a traditional Vietnamese breakfast at Phở Bát Đàn, a popular pho spot in Hanoi.
  • Explore the charming French Quarter, known for its elegant colonial architecture.
  • Visit the iconic St. Joseph’s Cathedral, a stunning neo-gothic church in the heart of Hanoi.

Midday

  • Enjoy a delicious lunch at Món Xôi, a local eatery specializing in various types of sticky rice dishes.
  • Discover the lesser-known Trấn Quốc Pagoda, the oldest Buddhist temple in Hanoi, located on a small island in West Lake.

Afternoon

  • Explore the unique and vibrant street art scene in the Tay Ho District.
  • Visit the atmospheric Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, where the preserved body of Vietnam’s beloved leader rests.

Evening

Day 3

Morning

  • Start your morning with a hearty breakfast at Bánh Cuốn Gia Truyền, a popular spot for traditional Vietnamese rice rolls.
  • Explore the vibrant and bustling Dong Xuan Market, one of the oldest and largest markets in Hanoi.
  • Immerse yourself in the local culture at the Quan Thanh Temple, a Taoist temple dating back to the 11th century.

Midday

Afternoon

  • Discover the hidden gem of West Lake, the largest freshwater lake in Hanoi, offering peaceful surroundings and scenic views.
  • Take a leisurely stroll along the charming streets of the Truc Bach District, known for its local food stalls and unique shops.

Evening

  • Savor a mouthwatering dinner at Bún Chả Đắc Kim, a renowned restaurant serving grilled pork with vermicelli noodles.
  • Enjoy live music and a wide selection of craft beers at Standing Bar.
  • Experience the vibrant nightlife of the Hang Ma Street, famous for its festive decorations and traditional lanterns.

Day 4

Morning

  • Start your morning with a delicious breakfast at Bánh Mì 25, a popular street food stall offering a variety of Vietnamese sandwiches.
  • Explore the historic Ba Dinh District, home to important landmarks such as the Presidential Palace and the One Pillar Pagoda.
  • Visit the intriguing Army Museum, showcasing Vietnam’s military history.

Midday

Afternoon

  • Explore the vibrant and colorful Hang Buom Street, famous for its vibrant nightlife and street food scene.
  • Visit the fascinating Women’s Museum, dedicated to the achievements and contributions of Vietnamese women.

Evening

  • Indulge in a delectable dinner at Bún Riêu Cua Kim Thoa, a popular spot for crab noodle soup.
  • Enjoy live music and a wide selection of cocktails at the trendy Mad Botanist.
  • Experience the bustling night market at the Dong Xuan Night Market, offering a wide range of local products and street food.

Day 5

Morning

  • Start your morning with a delicious traditional Vietnamese breakfast at Bánh Gối Thúy Hằng, a popular spot for savory fried dumplings.
  • Explore the charming and picturesque Tran Quoc Pagoda, located on a small peninsula in West Lake.
  • Immerse yourself in the local culture at the Thang Long Imperial Citadel, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Midday

Afternoon

  • Discover the hidden gem of Quang Ba Flower Market, a bustling market where locals buy and sell fresh flowers.
  • Take a leisurely stroll along the picturesque Tran Quoc Street, known for its charming cafes and boutique shops.

Evening

  • Savor a mouthwatering dinner at Cha Ca La Vong, a renowned restaurant serving grilled fish with turmeric and dill.
  • Enjoy a relaxing drink at the atmospheric Hidden Lounge.
  • Experience the vibrant nightlife of the Ta Hien Beer Street, famous for its lively bars and street food stalls.

Guide for 1 Week

Day 1

Morning

  • Start your day with a delicious traditional Vietnamese breakfast at Pho Gia Truyen, known for their flavorful beef noodle soup.
  • Explore the vibrant streets of the Old Quarter and marvel at the colonial architecture and bustling markets.
  • Immerse yourself in local culture at the Temple of Literature, Vietnam’s first national university.

Midday

Afternoon

  • Take a leisurely stroll around the serene Hoan Kiem Lake and visit the iconic Huc Bridge.
  • Explore the narrow lanes of the French Quarter and admire the beautiful French colonial buildings.

Evening

  • Savor a mouthwatering dinner at Cha Ca La Vong, a restaurant famous for its grilled fish with turmeric and dill.
  • Enjoy a refreshing drink at the trendy Beer Street and mingle with locals and fellow travelers.
  • End your evening with a visit to the Night Market and discover unique souvenirs and local crafts.

Day 2

Morning

  • Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Bun Bo Nam Bo, a popular spot for a delicious beef noodle salad.
  • Visit the iconic Ho Chi Minh Museum and learn about the life and achievements of the revered leader.
  • Explore the Tran Quoc Pagoda, the oldest Buddhist temple in Hanoi, situated on the picturesque West Lake.

Midday

  • Enjoy a tasty lunch at Quan An Ngon, a restaurant offering a wide variety of Vietnamese street food.
  • Discover the unique Train Street, where a train passes through a narrow residential street.

Afternoon

  • Visit the Hanoi Opera House and admire its stunning architecture and cultural significance.
  • Explore the quirky Train Market, where vendors set up their stalls along the railway tracks.

Evening

  • Indulge in a delicious dinner at Quan Com Pho, a local eatery known for its traditional Vietnamese rice dishes.
  • Experience the vibrant nightlife at Ta Hien Street, also known as “Beer Corner,” where you can enjoy cheap local beer and street performances.
  • End your evening with a visit to the Thang Long Water Puppet Theater and be mesmerized by this traditional art form.

Day 3

Morning

  • Kickstart your day with a tasty breakfast at Banh Mi 25, a popular spot for mouthwatering Vietnamese sandwiches.
  • Explore the colorful streets of the Hang Ma Street and discover unique decorations and traditional crafts.
  • Immerse yourself in the local atmosphere at the Dong Xuan Market, one of the largest covered markets in Hanoi.

Midday

  • Savor a delicious lunch at Cha Ca Thang Long, a restaurant famous for its grilled fish with turmeric and dill.
  • Visit the Quan Thanh Temple and admire its intricate architecture and tranquil surroundings.

Afternoon

  • Discover the unique Long Bien Bridge, a historic bridge offering panoramic views of the Red River.
  • Visit the Ho Chi Minh Museum and learn about the life and achievements of the revered leader.

Evening

  • Enjoy a delightful dinner at Giang Cafe, famous for its egg coffee, a Hanoi specialty.
  • Experience the lively atmosphere at Ta Hien Street and enjoy a refreshing drink at one of the many bars and pubs.
  • End your evening with a visit to the Thang Long Water Puppet Theater and be captivated by this traditional Vietnamese art form.

Day 4

Morning

  • Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Pho Thin, a famous spot for Hanoi’s iconic beef noodle soup.
  • Visit the One Pillar Pagoda, a historic Buddhist temple known for its unique architecture.
  • Explore the vibrant streets of the Ba Dinh District and discover local shops and markets.

Midday

  • Indulge in a tasty lunch at Quan An Ngon, a restaurant offering a wide variety of Vietnamese street food.
  • Discover the unique Train Street, where a train passes through a narrow residential street.

Afternoon

  • Visit the Ho Chi Minh Museum and learn about the life and achievements of the revered leader.
  • Explore the Tran Quoc Pagoda, the oldest Buddhist temple in Hanoi, situated on the picturesque West Lake.

Evening

  • Savor a mouthwatering dinner at Cha Ca La Vong, a restaurant famous for its grilled fish with turmeric and dill.
  • Enjoy a refreshing drink at the trendy Beer Street and mingle with locals and fellow travelers.
  • End your evening with a visit to the Night Market and discover unique souvenirs and local crafts.

Day 5

Morning

  • Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Bun Bo Nam Bo, a popular spot for a delicious beef noodle salad.
  • Visit the iconic Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and pay respects to the country’s iconic leader.
  • Explore the quirky Train Market, where vendors set up their stalls along the railway tracks.

Midday

  • Enjoy a tasty lunch at Bun Cha Huong Lien, where you can try the famous Hanoi dish, bun cha.
  • Explore the narrow lanes of the French Quarter and admire the beautiful French colonial buildings.

Afternoon

  • Take a leisurely stroll around the serene Hoan Kiem Lake and visit the iconic Huc Bridge.
  • Explore the vibrant streets of the Old Quarter and marvel at the colonial architecture and bustling markets.

Evening

  • Indulge in a delicious dinner at Quan Com Pho, a local eatery known for its traditional Vietnamese rice dishes.
  • Experience the vibrant nightlife at Ta Hien Street, also known as “Beer Corner,” where you can enjoy cheap local beer and street performances.
  • End your evening with a visit to the Thang Long Water Puppet Theater and be captivated by this traditional Vietnamese art form.

Day 6

Morning

  • Kickstart your day with a tasty breakfast at Banh Mi 25, a popular spot for mouthwatering Vietnamese sandwiches.
  • Explore the colorful streets of the Hang Ma Street and discover unique decorations and traditional crafts.
  • Immerse yourself in the local atmosphere at the Dong Xuan Market, one of the largest covered markets in Hanoi.

Midday

  • Savor a delicious lunch at Giang Cafe, famous for its egg coffee, a Hanoi specialty.
  • Visit the Quan Thanh Temple and admire its intricate architecture and tranquil surroundings.

Afternoon

  • Discover the unique Long Bien Bridge, a historic bridge offering panoramic views of the Red River.
  • Visit the Temple of Literature, Vietnam’s first national university, and learn about its rich history and architecture.

Evening

  • Enjoy a delightful dinner at Giang Cafe, famous for its egg coffee, a Hanoi specialty.
  • Experience the lively atmosphere at Ta Hien Street and enjoy a refreshing drink at one of the many bars and pubs.
  • End your evening with a visit to the Thang Long Water Puppet Theater and be mesmerized by this traditional art form.

Day 7

Morning

  • Start your day with a delicious traditional Vietnamese breakfast at Pho Gia Truyen, known for their flavorful beef noodle soup.
  • Explore the vibrant streets of the Ba Dinh District and discover local shops and markets.
  • Immerse yourself in local culture at the Quan Su Pagoda, one of the most important Buddhist temples in Hanoi.

Midday

  • Indulge in a tasty lunch at Cha Ca Thang Long, a restaurant famous for its grilled fish with turmeric and dill.
  • Visit the One Pillar Pagoda, a historic Buddhist temple known for its unique architecture.

Afternoon

  • Take a leisurely stroll around the serene Hoan Kiem Lake and visit the iconic Huc Bridge.
  • Explore the narrow lanes of the French Quarter and admire the beautiful French colonial buildings.

Evening

  • Savor a mouthwatering dinner at Pho Thin, a famous spot for Hanoi’s iconic beef noodle soup.
  • Enjoy a refreshing drink at the trendy Beer Street and mingle with locals and fellow travelers.
  • End your evening with a visit to the Night Market and discover unique souvenirs and local crafts.

Where to Stay

Coming soon for Hanoi!
Luxury: –
Good: –
Budget: –
Hostel: –

Best Season

Coming soon for Hanoi!