Hanoi, Vietnam is mesmerizing. The city is brimming with must-see sights, an aromatic and delectable cuisine and a stimulating café culture.
Honking horns, buzzing traffic and vibrant vendors are the rhythmic, pulsing soundtrack of Hanoi. It is intriguing, intoxicating…and intimidating.
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Planning what to do in Hanoi can be an overwhelming task – but don’t stress! Our Hanoi Itinerary includes all of the best things to do in Hanoi, Vietnam…and a few hidden gems, too.
Planning a Hanoi Itinerary
On our first trip to the city, we made no plans of what to see in Hanoi. We didn’t even have a guidebook!
Our Hanoi sightseeing was simply wandering around aimlessly. While it was a fine way to get acquainted with the city, we regrettably missed many of the best places to visit in Hanoi.
On a return trip to Hanoi, we were much better prepared. We created a plan of where to go in Hanoi that included all the top Hanoi places to visit and a deeper dive into the iconic cuisine.
The Best Hanoi Itinerary
Our itinerary features the best Hanoi, Vietnam things to do, see and eat. We routed our way to Hanoi must-see sights and indulged in the local fare.
In addition to all of the top things to do in Hanoi, we leave time to linger at cafes and soak in the atmosphere. Fellow travelers who want to visit Hanoi can use our itinerary to plan their custom Hanoi Travel Guide.
What To Do in Hanoi: A Day-by-Day Guide
Our Hanoi trip itinerary is perfect for those who want to visit the capital of Vietnam. We include a detailed outline for what to do in Hanoi for 4 days – plus a day trip to explore more of the region.
Formatted as a daily guide that features top Hanoi things to see, we also offer tips on where to stay and other practical travel advice.
Hanoi Museums and Landmarks
One of our biggest frustrations while visiting museums in Hanoi – and some landmarks – was finding accurate opening times. Many Hanoi tourist spots close for lunch, and a few are closed completely on certain days of the week.
Finding current schedules and ticket prices is not easy, either. The misinformation can be maddening – but we chalk it up to being part of the Vietnam experience.
That said, if there is a specific sight that is a must-do in Hanoi for you, we recommend referencing multiple sources to help determine the correct information.
HANOI ITINERARY 5 DAYS
This Hanoi, Vietnam Travel Blog post contains everything you need to plan your vacation. Save, Pin or Bookmark our article for easy access before and during your trip!
DAY 1: Must-See Attractions in Hanoi Old Quarter
Begin your 5 days in Hanoi in the city’s most iconic districts: The famous Old Quarter and the opulent French Quarter. Complete your discovery with a walk around Hoan Kiem Lake and end the day with a classic Vietnamese meal.
Pro Tip: Use our free Hanoi Walking Tours (Walks 1, 2 and 3) for complete information on the places to see.
Top Places To See in Hanoi Old Quarter
Get an early start at the Dong Xuan Market – an absolute Must-Do in Hanoi! Explore the labyrinth of stall-lined lanes that fill the 3-story hall. Emerge from the hectic market onto the chaotic streets and make your way to the city’s historic gate, O Quan Chuong.
Next, visit the oldest and most famous temple, Bach Ma. Then make your way to the Hang Bac Temple, a hidden gem in the Old Quarter.
Stop for a cup of coffee at 39 Ta Hien Café – and order a classic Vietnamese iced coffee with sweet condensed milk. Sit on a low plastic stool outside where you can savor the coffee and atmosphere.
Continue your Old Quarter discovery along Hang Bac – the Silversmith’s Street – and pop into Dinh Kim Ngan Temple along the way.
Visit the Hanoi Ancient House – a historic dwelling that has been preserved as a museum. Next, wander along Pho Gia Ngu, a shop-lined street where vendors sell fresh herbs, vegetables and raw meat.
Finish your Old Quarter exploration at Den Ba Kieu Temple, which sits on the north end of Hoan Kiem Lake.
Places To Go in Hanoi French Quarter
Cross the red wooden bridge and visit the Ngoc Son Temple. Then stroll south along the water to the statue of Ly Thai To, the city’s founder. Walk past the frog fountain in Dien Hong Park to the National History Museum.
Next, visit the most famous building in the French Quarter: The Hanoi Opera House. After admiring the historic, yellow structure, detour to Pho Thin for a bowl of the best Pho in Hanoi.
After lunch, pop into the posh Trang Tien Plaza Mall (if for no other reason than to cool off in the air-conditioning). Then walk to the south end of Hoan Kiem Lake to Hoa Phong Tower.
If you desire something sweet after your bowl of Pho, stop in S’Patisserie for a slice of cake. Then make your way to the west side of the lake to the Hanoi landmark church, St. Joseph’s Cathedral.
Next, walk lakeside and enjoy the peaceful retreat at the King Le Thai To monument. Stay by the water and walk north to the large square, Dong Kinh Nghia Thuc. Find the hidden entrance to Cafe Phố Cổ, where you can take in the rooftop views and a refreshing beverage.
Explore the Ancient Guild Streets
If you have the energy, discover the 36 Guild Streets of the Old Quarter. Each lane was once dedicated to a specific trade and named for that craft.
Find the street dedicated to the silk trade and the one where they sell children’s toys. Seek out the herbal medicine street or peek into the shops selling paper votives for Buddhist rituals.
Dinner in Hanoi Old Quarter
Choose one of the establishments featuring the famous Cha Ca – a fish dish that originated in Hanoi. The restaurant where the meal was invented is on Cha Ca Street (along with several others), but we recommend going to local favorite Cha Ca Thang Long.
Want more foodie tips? Check out our Hanoi Food Guide for more fantastic things to eat!
DAY 2: Iconic Places To Visit in Hanoi
On Day 2 of your Itinerary for Hanoi, Vietnam, journey to the west of the Old Quarter. The area is home to some of the top things to see in Hanoi: the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, Presidential Palace and ancient Citadel.
The sights visited on this day require appropriate attire, so be sure to dress modestly. This typically means no tank tops, plunging necklines, bare midsections or short shorts.
Pro Tip: We combine most of these on our Hanoi Walking Tour #4.
Best Hanoi Monuments
Start by touring the ancient Thang Long Imperial Citadel (fee to enter). The historic complex features structures from different periods in time – including bunkers from the Vietnam War. Some may also want to stop next door at the Vietnam Military Museum, as well.
After touring the Citadel grounds, head west to the south side of Quang Truong Ba Dinh Square. It is one of the best places in Hanoi to understand the Vietnamese people’s love for their former leader, Ho Chi Minh. The most imposing sight is the stoic Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum where his embalmed body sits on display.
Next, tour the Presidential Palace grounds (fee to enter) and the traditional Stilt House where Ho Chi Minh lived. After exiting, visit the historic wooden One Pillar Pagoda before leaving Ba Dinh Square via the north exit.
West Lake and Truc Bach District
On the southeast bank of West Lake, visit the Quan Thanh Temple (fee to enter). Then walk north along Thanh Nien Street that separates West Lake from the much smaller Truc Bach Lake.
If you need a rest and refreshment, make a stop at Highlands Coffee, a Starbucks-esque coffeeshop chain in Vietnam. As you continue north along Thanh Nien, note the American War Memorial that celebrates the capture of American pilot and future US senator, John McCain.
Continue walking north to the small island on West Lake, which is completely occupied by the Tran Quoc Temple complex – one of the top Hanoi, Vietnam attractions. Many locals consider the 6th century Buddhist temple to be one of the most important in the city – and it’s free to enter.
Now wander through the Truc Bach District, one of the lesser-known places to visit in Hanoi. Make your way to the Truc Bach Island and find a seat at Pho Cuon Huong Mai for a late lunch. Order one (or both) of their signature dishes: Rolled Pho or Fried Pho.
Walk off lunch and visit the Cho Chau Long Market and make one last stop at the Roman Catholic Church of Martyrs, more commonly known as Cua Bac Church.
Old Quarter Hanoi Night Market
If it is a weekend night (Friday, Saturday or Sunday), spend the evening perusing the wares at the Night Market in Hanoi.
The bazaar is set up on Hang Dao Street, which completely closes to vehicular traffic after 6:00pm. Vendors sell clothing, accessories, heaps of souvenirs, sweet treats and all kinds of meat on a stick.
Walk the length of the market and then spend some time in the vibrant Dong Kinh Nghia Thuc Square. A fantastic place for Hanoi people watching, look for large groups of people practicing Zumba and street performers.
DAY 3: Hanoi Culture and Additional Attractions
Today on your 5-Day Hanoi Itinerary, you’ll spend time learning more about the history and Vietnamese culture at top Hanoi places of interest.
Pro Tip: We bundled most of these sights on our Hanoi Walking Tour #5.
Ancient Hanoi History
Start your third day bright and early with a jolt of caffeine from Cong Café. The modern coffeeshop features vintage communist décor and an amazing iced coconut coffee.
Next, head into the Temple of Literature to learn about the educational complex that dates to 1070. Art aficionados might want to look around the Fine Arts Museum that is located nearby.
Then, visit the Quan Su Pagoda, a picturesque 15th century Buddhist temple that also serves as the Head Office of Vietnamese Buddhist Sangha.
Modern History in Hanoi
Step inside the Hao Lo Prison, better known to most as the Hanoi Hilton, where American POWs were held captive during the Vietnam War. Learn about the prison’s history under French colonialism and stories of the POWs who were held there.
For lunch, eat a bowl of Bun Cha at Bun Cha Huong Lien. The restaurant was made famous in 2016, when the late Anthony Bourdain and US President Obama dined there. Order the Obama Special: Bun Cha, a seafood roll and a beer!
After lunch, visit the Vietnamese Women’s History Museum, which features displays and information about women’s traditional role in society. Learn about their position in the family, fashions and how they have taken part in the country’s history.
Once you have seen all the prime sights, we believe wandering the streets is one of the best things to do in Hanoi Old Quarter. Grab a Banh Mi sandwich for a late snack or early dinner before sipping a few local beers.
Ta Hien Beer Corner
End the day drinking a few local beers at the famous Ta Hien Beer Corner; it’s one of the top things to do in Hanoi at night. The jovial scene is boisterous, chaotic and highly entertaining.
Simply pick a place and find a seat…if there are no tables, the waitstaff can quickly bring one out for you. If the police come through and your table is in the street, the staff will move you back to the sidewalk until the cops are out of sight!
Pro Tip: Don’t stay out too late – because tomorrow you will embark on a full day trip from Hanoi!
DAY 4: Excursions from Hanoi
On Day 4 of your Hanoi Travel Itinerary, join a tour to explore outside of the city center. Day trips out of Hanoi are an ideal way to experience the region and learn more about the people.
These tours are relatively inexpensive – with an option to upgrade to a Hanoi private tour, if desired.
Hanoi to Halong Bay
On our first trip to Vietnam, visiting Halong Bay was an absolute highlight! The enchanting landscape is surreal and one of the top places to visit near Hanoi. For those unable to squeeze an overnight cruise into their Hanoi Itinerary, there is a jam-packed Hanoi 1-Day Tour to Halong Bay.
However, we believe a 2-Night Halong Bay Cruise is the ideal way to experience the UNESCO World Heritage Site. Read our Halong Bay Cruise review for more recommendations and tips!
Hanoi to Ninh Binh
Another one of the top things to do near Hanoi is to visit the wonderland of Ninh Binh. Steeped in history and natural beauty, the Ninh Binh Province is nicknamed “Halong On Land.”
A full day tour from Hanoi to Ninh Binh features the highlights of the region. Participants are driven via air-conditioned bus to the province, which is south of the city.
The English-speaking guide then leads the way to numerous Ninh Binh activities. This includes a traditional Tom Coc boat ride through three caves, a bike ride through the village, a visit to the ancient capital of Hoa Lu and a hike to the top of Mua Cave.
Pro Tip: Read about our experience Visiting Ninh Binh from Hanoi and what we would’ve done differently.
Hanoi Outskirts by Bicycle
Those who are looking for things to do around Hanoi without boarding a bus can explore by bicycle. On this Half-Day Bike Tour from Hanoi, guests pedal their bikes into the rural villages that lie just beyond the bustling center.
More Day Tours from Hanoi
The above Hanoi day trips are our top picks – but there are other tours that you might find interesting.
Perfume Pagoda
Travel 2 hours to the ancient Buddhist complex of temples and shrines built directly into the Huong Tich mountains. Enjoy a ride in a rowboat, trekking to a cave and visiting the historical Heaven Kitchen Pagoda. Get the details!
Bat Trang and Duong Lam Villages
Get a full dose of traditional Vietnamese crafts, culture and history on a full day tour from Hanoi. The excursion begins in nearby Bat Trang – a village well-known for making pottery and ceramics.
Next travel to Duong Lam, which features century-old houses, and take a bike ride through farmland to temples. Learn more!
DAY 5: Hanoi Unique Experiences
To complete this Hanoi 5-Day Itinerary, satisfy your curiosity for unique experiences by preparing local specialties or learning a traditional craft.
Morning: Indulge in Local Hanoi Fare
The food in Vietnam is like nowhere else in the world. Fragrant and flavorful dishes dominate the local cuisine. Visitors can discover this incredible foodie scene three ways.
Discover Hanoi Food on your Own
Start your day with a feast and eat a local favorite breakfast dish: Xoi Xeo. We recommend ordering it at Xoi Yen, topped with pork ribs and a boiled egg. Save a little room for a classic Egg Coffee from the nearby spot that invented the drink, Giang Cafe.
Join a Hanoi Street Food Tour
Rather than plotting your own route to the top eats, learn about the cuisine from a local Hanoi tour guide. On this Small-Group Hanoi Food Tour, participants can get a taste of the best street food in the city!
Hanoi Cooking Class
For a real education in Vietnamese food, join a Hanoi Cooking Class. The half-day class that I took offered so much more than expected – and the food was phenomenal! Read details about the experience in my Hanoi Cooking Class review!
Afternoon: Hanoi Neighborhood Exploration
Use the final afternoon of your Hanoi trip to discover a new neighborhood – or revisit one that you loved!
Give your feet a break and take a relaxed Hanoi city tour in a Cyclo for a different perspective. Alternatively, cover some ground on two wheels on one of the guided Hanoi Motorbike Tours!
Visitors who want a break from sightseeing can take in some culture instead by watching a famous Hanoi Water Puppet Show!
Evening: Unique Things To Do in Hanoi
Visiting Train Street is one of the more unusual things to do in Hanoi. Once a neglected neighborhood along the tracks, tourists started showing up to take pictures of trains chugging through the narrow alleys. Locals then opened front porch cafes and shifty balcony bars, successfully raking in tourist dollars.
After completely shutting down in 2019, tourists are again allowed to enter the area if “invited” by a shop owner. Visitors who want a glimpse of the train barreling through the neighborhood can watch from their “sponsors” business.
Night: Local Bia Hoi Corners
Drinking Fresh Beer – or Bia Hoi – is one of the fun things to do in Hanoi with locals. The beer is made daily and delivered to restaurants in large metal tanks.
Bat Dan Bia Hoi
Bat Dan and Duong Thanh are two Bia Hoi corner bars that sit catty-corner from each other. The open-air venues have low tables and chairs that spill out onto the sidewalks. A popular spot with locals, each small glass of Fresh Beer costs about 50 cents!
New Bia Hoi Corner: Hang Buom and Dao Duy Tu
Dubbed by locals as the New Bia Hoi Corner, vendors pop up all along the stretch of sidewalk at the intersection of Hang Buom and Dao Duy Tu. On weekends, when the street is closed to traffic, live bands join the party, too!
Fresh Beer at Dao Duy Tu and Luong Ngoc Quyen
Another fun Fresh Beer Corner that pours cheap glasses of Bia Hoi is at the intersection of Dao Duy Tu and Luong Ngoc Quyen. However, rather than vendors serving drinks, the beer comes from the established corner restaurants.
How Many Days in Hanoi, Vietnam?
We believe 5 days in Hanoi is the perfect amount of time to get acquainted with the city and surrounding area. It allows visitors to truly experience the top Hanoi activities.
However, we understand that not everyone has the option of staying in Hanoi for 5 days. To help travelers determine how many days to spend in Hanoi, we have a few suggestions.
Want our tips on planning your entire vacation? Use our 2-Week Vietnam Itinerary!
Pro Tip: However you decide to organize your Hanoi Itinerary, allow room in your schedule to sit back and just watch the city in motion. While the sights are amazing and important to see, Hanoi is a sight in and of itself!
One Day in Hanoi
It’s really difficult to determine what to squeeze into a Hanoi One-Day Itinerary. That said, an ambitious traveler could combine the top Hanoi landmarks from Days 1 and 2 into a jam-packed plan. Otherwise, consider joining this highly rated Hanoi One-Day Tour!
Hanoi Itinerary 6 Days
Visitors with 6 days in Hanoi can enjoy the city at a more leisurely pace, still using our above itinerary. Alternatively, use the additional day to go on that 2-Night Halong Bay Cruise!
7-Day Northern Vietnam Itinerary
A 1-Week Northern Vietnam Itinerary could be created by using our detailed 5-Day Hanoi Itinerary with the Day Trip to Ninh Binh. Then choose either a 2-night Halong Bay Cruise or 2-night Sapa Tour.
Alternatively, those who want to visit all three destinations should start out by following the first 3 days of our Hanoi Itinerary. Then spend 2 nights on Halong Bay and 2 days in the mountains of Sapa.
Hanoi Itinerary Travel Tips
Now that you know the best things to see in Hanoi and Northern Vietnam, we have some final advice for your vacation.
When is the Best Time To Go to Hanoi?
Many visitors like to plan their trip based on weather conditions. However, weather in Hanoi can be unpredictable. It is also important to take note of public Vietnam holidays, when certain sights may be closed.
Hanoi Weather
The summer months – June, July and August – are the hottest and the humidity can be stifling. It’s also considered the rainy season, meaning frequent downpours. In the autumn – September, October and November – the temperatures are usually slightly cooler.
Winter in Hanoi – December to February – sees cool temps, ranging between 50-70F. During the Spring – March, April and May – temps start creeping up and the skies are often overcast with light showers.
Hanoi Holidays
Before planning a trip to Hanoi, Vietnam, it’s important to check the Vietnam holiday calendar. Many of the public holidays in Vietnam are religious and cultural events that many Westerners are unfamiliar with.
Tet – the Vietnamese Lunar New Year – is the biggest holiday and is marked with week-long celebrations, usually late January or early February.
There are other public holidays in April (Hung Kings Festival mid-April and Reunification Day on April 30), May (Labor Day on the first), in September (National Day on September 2) and January 1 for New Year’s Day.
How To Get to Hanoi, Vietnam
Visitors can arrive to Hanoi via plane, bus, train car or even motorbike! On our trips to Hanoi, we have arrived by plane to the Noi Bai International Airport (HAN) direct from Singapore and Chiang Mai, Thailand.
Hanoi Airport
The airport in Hanoi is located about 28 miles from the city center. Visitors can hop in a cab at the airport, but will pay less by pre-arranging transportation. Most hotels also offer airport transfers – either included in the price or for an extra specified amount.
Getting around Hanoi
The ideal way to get around Hanoi Old Quarter is on your own two feet. However, while sightseeing outside of the Old Quarter, we recommend using the Grab App to catch a ride.
Grab taxis are significantly cheaper – and easier to use – than flagging down a cab and trying to negotiate price and communicate your destination. Before your Hanoi trip, be sure to download and set up the Grab App!
Shopping in Hanoi
There are many options when it comes to Hanoi shopping! Hanoi markets sell everything under the sun, including tourist souvenirs. However, travelers will want to practice their negotiating skills in order to obtain the best price.
Shopping in the Old Quarter is not limited to markets; there are a multitude of shops lining the lanes where visitors can pick up Hanoi keepsakes. Buyer Beware: Some of the items for sale in Hanoi are counterfeit knock-offs!
Where To Stay in Hanoi
The prime area for accommodations in Hanoi is the Old Quarter. That said, with the honking motorbikes and inebriated tourists, it can be loud. Therefore, we recommend staying in a hotel on a pedestrian-only street.
Amber Hotel
Hanoi Amber Hotel is a small boutique property right in the old center. We loved the spacious rooms, ice-cold air con and lovely staff.
Because it’s on a small (car-free) alley, the hotel is particularly quiet considering the location. The only downside is there are a lot of stairs and no elevator. Did we mention a made-to-order hot breakfast is included in the price? Check availability!
Hanoi Accommodation French Quarter
Those who want to splurge and stay in the grandiose French Quarter have plenty of choices, too! Among the 5-Star Hanoi Hotels in the French Quarter, the following come highly-recommended by fellow travelers: Sofitel Legend Metropole and MGallery Hotel de l’Opera.
Swimming Pool Hanoi Hotel
There are relatively few Hanoi hotels with a pool – and those that do tend to come at a premium. That said, there are a few in the Old Quarter that get consistently good reviews. Check the Silk Queen Hotel Hang Gai or Tirant Hotel.
Hanoi Backpackers Hostels
Budget travelers looking for spots to stay in Hanoi have a plethora of hostels in the Old Quarter to choose from. Little Charm Hostel and Buffalo Hostel – both of which have pools – get great reviews.
What To Pack for Hanoi, Vietnam
As you prepare for your trip to Hanoi, Vietnam, read our packing hacks and complete checklist for your backpack or suitcase.
Appropriate Attire for Vietnam
Visitors traveling to Hanoi in the warmer months will need loose-fitting, modest clothing. Make sure to have something that covers your knees and shoulders to enter temples – or bring a multi-functional wrap to carry with you while sightseeing.
Weather Gear and Day Bag
A packable raincoat is a good choice – and a travel umbrella can provide protection from both rain and sun. Remember sunscreen, too – as it is expensive in Vietnam and insect repellent to keep the mosquitos away. You’ll also want a great day pack to organize and secure all your everyday travel items!
Travel Camera
Hanoi is visually stimulating and extremely photogenic! Capture the beauty of the city with an actual travel camera, rather than relying on your phone. We shoot with a DSLR Canon Rebel and a 18-135mm lens, a set-up that takes exceptional photos.
Hanoi Guidebook
Understanding the layout of Hanoi and where the top sights are helps visitors better navigate. And, although we provide a lot of detailed information in this Hanoi trip blog post, a guidebook can also be helpful.
WiFi in Vietnam
Internet connectivity is an absolute must in Hanoi! If your phone’s unlocked, getting a local SIM may be the way to go. They are cheap and this one can be delivered to your hotel.
Those traveling with locked phones can contact their provider to inquire about short-term international plans. However, frequent travelers and those traveling in a group or as a family should consider buying a Mobile WiFi Hotspot. We prefer this device from GlocalMe.
Vietnam Travel Insurance
Trip coverage may help with the cost of cancelled flights, lost luggage or even getting ill or injured abroad. Check policies and rates at World Nomads for your Vietnam vacation.
Start planning your trip to Vietnam! Search for the lowest airfares, the best accommodations and fun things to do…then start packing! Want more advice? Head over to our Travel Planning Page for tips on traveling – and for country-specific information, take a look at our Travel Guides Page!
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