Welcome to Hanoi! Start your family-friendly adventure by checking into your hotel and settling in. Take some time to explore the nearby streets and get a taste of the local cuisine. In the evening, consider taking a leisurely walk around Hoan Kiem Lake and enjoy the beautiful scenery.
Saturday, November 18: Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, Temple of Literature, and Water Puppet Show
Start your day with a visit to the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, where you can learn about the country's revolutionary leader. Afterward, head to the nearby Temple of Literature, Vietnam's oldest university, and explore the peaceful gardens and historical buildings. In the evening, treat your family to a traditional water puppet show, a unique and entertaining cultural experience.
Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum: Estimated Cost: Free, Time Spent: 2 hours
Temple of Literature: Estimated Cost: 30,000 VND (approximately $1.30), Time Spent: 1-2 hours
Water Puppet Show: Estimated Cost: 100,000-200,000 VND (approximately $4.30-$8.50) per ticket, Time Spent: 1 hour
Restaurants
For breakfast, head over to The Old Quarter Café. This charming spot offers a variety of traditional Vietnamese breakfast dishes such as pho and banh mi. Average cost for a meal is about $5 per person.
If you're looking for a quick and delicious lunch, check out Bun Cha 34. This local favorite specializes in grilled pork with vermicelli, served with a side of fresh herbs and dipping sauce. Average cost for a meal is about $7 per person.
For dinner, treat yourself to a unique dining experience at Home Restaurant. This hidden gem offers a fusion of Vietnamese and French cuisine in a cozy and elegant setting. Average cost for a meal is about $15 per person.
Sunday, November 19: Thang Long Imperial Citadel, Hoa Lo Prison, and Old Quarter Stroll
Explore the historic sites of Hanoi today. Start with a visit to the Thang Long Imperial Citadel, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Then, head to Hoa Lo Prison, also known as the "Hanoi Hilton," and learn about its intriguing history. In the afternoon, take a leisurely stroll through the charming streets of the Old Quarter, where you can shop for souvenirs and sample local street food.
Thang Long Imperial Citadel: Estimated Cost: 30,000 VND (approximately $1.30), Time Spent: 1-2 hours
Hoa Lo Prison: Estimated Cost: 30,000 VND (approximately $1.30), Time Spent: 1-2 hours
Old Quarter: Estimated Cost: Free, Time Spent: Flexible
Restaurants
For a delicious breakfast, head to Cafe Pho Co located in the heart of the Old Quarter. Their traditional Vietnamese pho is a must-try, and breakfast meals cost around 70,000 VND per person.
Enjoy a satisfying lunch at Banh Mi 25, a popular spot known for their mouthwatering banh mi sandwiches. The average cost for a meal here is about 50,000 VND per person.
For dinner, indulge in a delightful dining experience at Green Tangerine, a charming French-Vietnamese fusion restaurant. Their creative dishes range from 150,000 to 300,000 VND per person.
Monday, November 20: Vietnam Museum of Ethnology and West Lake
Immerse your family in the diverse cultures of Vietnam at the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology. Discover the rich heritage through interactive exhibits and traditional artifacts. Afterward, head to the picturesque West Lake and take a relaxing bike ride or enjoy a boat trip to Tran Quoc Pagoda, one of the oldest pagodas in Hanoi.
Vietnam Museum of Ethnology: Estimated Cost: 40,000 VND (approximately $1.70), Time Spent: 2-3 hours
West Lake: Estimated Cost: Free, Time Spent: Flexible
Tuesday, November 21: Bat Trang Ceramic Village and Temple of Jade Mountain (Ngoc Son Temple)
Spend the morning exploring Bat Trang Ceramic Village, known for its beautiful pottery and ceramics. Watch artisans at work and even try your hand at creating your own masterpiece. In the afternoon, visit the Temple of Jade Mountain (Ngoc Son Temple), located on a small island in Hoan Kiem Lake. Enjoy the tranquil atmosphere and stunning views.
Bat Trang Ceramic Village: Estimated Cost: Varies based on purchases, Time Spent: 2-3 hours
Temple of Jade Mountain: Estimated Cost: 20,000 VND (approximately $0.85), Time Spent: 1-2 hours
Wednesday, November 22: Halong Bay Day Trip
Embark on a memorable day trip to Halong Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its stunning limestone islands. Cruise through the emerald waters, visit scenic caves, and enjoy a seafood lunch on board. Marvel at the breathtaking natural beauty and create unforgettable memories with your family.
Halong Bay Day Trip: Estimated Cost: 1,500,000-2,500,000 VND (approximately $65-$110) per person, Time Spent: Full day
Thursday, November 23: Tran Quoc Pagoda and Hanoi Street Food Tour
Start your day with a visit to Tran Quoc Pagoda, a tranquil Buddhist temple located on the shores of West Lake. Experience the serenity and admire the intricate architecture. In the evening, embark on a street food tour and indulge in delicious local dishes, guided by a knowledgeable food enthusiast.
Tran Quoc Pagoda: Estimated Cost: Free, Time Spent: 1-2 hours
Hanoi Street Food Tour: Estimated Cost: 500,000-700,000 VND (approximately $22-$30) per person, Time Spent: 3-4 hours
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
For off the beaten path attractions, consider visiting the Bat Trang Ceramic Village, where you can explore traditional craftsmanship and purchase unique souvenirs. Another local favorite is the Train Street in the Old Quarter, where trains pass through narrow residential streets, making for an extraordinary photo opportunity. Don't forget to try "pho cuon," a lesser-known but delicious variation of the famous Vietnamese noodle soup, at restaurants like "Pho Cuon Ngu Xa."