Make this trip your own
Create your own free, personalized itinerary in seconds — then sign up to save and edit it.
Create my version
Viewed by 74 travelers

7-Day Shoestring Budget Itinerary for Hanoi

Friday, December 1: Arrival in Hanoi

Welcome to Hanoi! Start your trip by exploring the lively Old Quarter, known for its narrow streets filled with shops, street vendors, and delicious street food. In the morning, wander around Hoan Kiem Lake, a popular spot for locals to exercise and relax. In the afternoon, visit the Temple of Literature, a historic site dedicated to Confucius and Vietnam's first national university. In the evening, indulge in a bowl of pho, a traditional Vietnamese noodle soup.

  • Old Quarter: Free, 2-3 hours
  • Hoan Kiem Lake: Free, 1-2 hours
  • Temple of Literature: VND 30,000 (approximately $1.5), 1-2 hours
Saturday, December 2: Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum Complex

Start your morning by visiting the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum. Witness the preserved body of Vietnam's revolutionary leader, Ho Chi Minh. Afterward, explore the One Pillar Pagoda and the Presidential Palace nearby. In the afternoon, head to the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology to learn about the country's diverse ethnic groups. Enjoy a traditional water puppet show in the evening.

  • Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum: Free, 1-2 hours
  • One Pillar Pagoda: Free, 30 minutes
  • Presidential Palace: Free, 30 minutes
  • Vietnam Museum of Ethnology: VND 40,000 (approximately $2), 2-3 hours
  • Water Puppet Show: VND 100,000 (approximately $4.5), 1 hour
Sunday, December 3: Explore Hanoi's History and Culture

Start your morning by visiting the Imperial Citadel of Thang Long, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Explore the ancient ruins and learn about the rich history of Vietnam. In the afternoon, visit the Vietnam National Museum of History to delve deeper into the country's past. Enjoy a traditional Vietnamese coffee at a local café in the evening.

  • Imperial Citadel of Thang Long: VND 30,000 (approximately $1.5), 2-3 hours
  • Vietnam National Museum of History: VND 40,000 (approximately $2), 2-3 hours
  • Local Café: VND 30,000 (approximately $1.5), 1 hour
Monday, December 4: Day Trip to Halong Bay

Embark on an unforgettable day trip to Halong Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Marvel at the breathtaking limestone islands and enjoy a boat cruise through the emerald waters. Explore hidden caves and kayak through scenic lagoons. Indulge in a seafood feast for lunch on board. Return to Hanoi in the evening.

  • Halong Bay Day Trip: VND 1,000,000 (approximately $45), 8-10 hours
Tuesday, December 5: Discover Tran Quoc Pagoda and West Lake

In the morning, visit Tran Quoc Pagoda, the oldest Buddhist temple in Hanoi. Admire its beautiful architecture and serene surroundings. Take a stroll along the picturesque West Lake, stopping by the nearby Quan Thanh Temple. In the afternoon, explore the hidden gem of Hanoi: the Long Bien Bridge. Enjoy a sunset view from the bridge before heading back to the city center.

  • Tran Quoc Pagoda: Free, 1-2 hours
  • West Lake: Free, 1-2 hours
  • Quan Thanh Temple: Free, 30 minutes
  • Long Bien Bridge: Free, 1-2 hours
Wednesday, December 6: Visit Hoa Lo Prison and Hoa Lo Street Food Market

In the morning, visit Hoa Lo Prison, also known as the "Hanoi Hilton." Explore the prison's historical exhibits and learn about its role during the Vietnam War. In the afternoon, indulge in the diverse flavors of Vietnamese street food at the Hoa Lo Street Food Market. Try popular dishes like banh mi, bun cha, and egg coffee.

  • Hoa Lo Prison: VND 30,000 (approximately $1.5), 1-2 hours
  • Hoa Lo Street Food Market: Varies, 1-2 hours
Thursday, December 7: Departure from Hanoi

End your trip by exploring the charming French Quarter of Hanoi in the morning. Admire the colonial architecture and visit the famous St. Joseph's Cathedral. Spend your last hours shopping for souvenirs at Dong Xuan Market. Bid farewell to Hanoi and depart for your next destination.

  • French Quarter: Free, 1-2 hours
  • St. Joseph's Cathedral: Free, 30 minutes
  • Dong Xuan Market: Varies, 1-2 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For off the beaten path attractions, head to the Train Street near the Old Quarter. Experience the thrill of watching trains pass by just a few feet away from houses and cafes. Explore the narrow alleys of the local neighborhoods to get a glimpse of everyday life in Hanoi. Don't miss Bia Hoi Junction, where you can enjoy cheap draught beer and mingle with locals.

Check hotel and flight prices here

0
Like this trip? Make your own version.
A free, personalized itinerary in seconds — sign up to save and edit it.
Create my version