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 59 travelers

Exploring Hanoi: 3-Day Itinerary

Wednesday, October 4: Unveiling Hanoi's Charm

Morning: Start your adventure in Hanoi by visiting the famous Hoan Kiem Lake, located in the heart of the city. Take a leisurely walk around the lake and admire the Ngoc Son Temple situated on a small island. Savor a traditional Vietnamese breakfast at a local street food stall and immerse yourself in the bustling atmosphere of the Old Quarter nearby.

Afternoon: Head to the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum complex to pay homage to Vietnam's beloved leader, Ho Chi Minh. Explore the One Pillar Pagoda and the peaceful Presidential Palace Gardens. Indulge in a delicious local lunch at a nearby restaurant.

Evening: Experience the vibrant nightlife of Hanoi by visiting the bustling Dong Xuan Night Market. Browse through the stalls offering an array of local products, street food, and souvenirs. Enjoy a bowl of flavorful pho or other traditional dishes at a nearby restaurant.

  • Hoan Kiem Lake: Free, 2-3 hours
  • Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum: Free, 1-2 hours (closed in October)
  • Dong Xuan Night Market: Free, 2-3 hours
Thursday, October 5: Exploring Hanoi's Heritage

Morning: Begin your day at the Temple of Literature, Vietnam's first national university and a testament to the country's rich cultural heritage. Explore its beautiful gardens and ancient buildings. Enjoy a cup of Vietnamese egg coffee at a nearby cafe.

Afternoon: Venture to the unique and well-preserved Hanoi Old Quarter, a maze of narrow streets filled with houses, cafes, and shops. Discover traditional Vietnamese architecture as you wander through the area. Visit the Thang Long Water Puppet Theater and watch a captivating water puppet show.

Evening: Experience Hanoi's street food scene with a walking food tour. Sample various local delicacies such as banh mi, bun cha, and egg coffee. Sip on a refreshing Vietnamese beer at a lively beer corner.

  • Temple of Literature: 30,000 VND ($1.50), 1-2 hours
  • Hanoi Old Quarter: Free, 2-3 hours
  • Thang Long Water Puppet Theater: 100,000 VND ($4.50), 1 hour
Friday, October 6: Day Trip to Ninh Binh

Morning: Embark on an exciting day trip to Ninh Binh, a picturesque province located a few hours south of Hanoi. Explore the magnificent Trang An Scenic Landscape Complex, cruising through its stunning limestone karst formations and ancient caves.

Afternoon: Visit the imposing Bai Dinh Pagoda, one of the largest Buddhist temples in Southeast Asia. Admire its grand architecture and beautiful scenery. Savor a traditional Vietnamese lunch at a local restaurant.

Evening: Return to Hanoi and enjoy a relaxing stroll around West Lake, the largest freshwater lake in the city. Witness the beautiful sunset and end your day with a delectable seafood dinner at a lakeside restaurant.

  • Trang An Scenic Landscape Complex: 200,000 VND ($9), 3-4 hours
  • Bai Dinh Pagoda: Free, 1-2 hours
  • West Lake: Free, 1-2 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

Explore the lesser-known gems of Hanoi by visiting the peaceful and scenic Ho Tay Water Park, a perfect spot for a family outing or relaxing picnic. Discover the intriguing history of the Hanoi Hilton (Hoa Lo Prison), which played a significant role during the Vietnam War. Wander through the charming French Quarter with its colonial-era buildings, designer boutiques, and exquisite cafes. Don't forget to try Vietnamese street food specialties, like bun bo nam bo, at hidden food stalls tucked away in the city's alleyways. These hidden gems and local favorites will give you a deeper insight into the rich culture and history of Hanoi.

For checking hotel and flight prices, click 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