Exploring the Best of Hanoi, Vietnam in 4 Days

Day 1: Hoan Kiem District Exploration

Hoan Kiem, Hanoi, Vietnam

8:00AM

Visit Hoan Kiem Lake

Start your day with a peaceful stroll around Hoan Kiem Lake, a symbol of Hanoi. Enjoy the scenic views and see locals practicing Tai Chi.
Hoan Kiem Lake is centrally located in the Old Quarter, easily accessible on foot from most hotels in the area.
Free, 1-2 hours

10:00AM

Explore the Old Quarter

Walk through the bustling streets of the Old Quarter, full of narrow alleys, street food vendors, and traditional shops. Immerse yourself in the local culture.
The Old Quarter is adjacent to Hoan Kiem Lake, just a few minutes' walk away.
Free, 2-3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Cha Ca Thang Long

Try the famous Vietnamese dish Cha Ca (grilled fish with turmeric and dill) at Cha Ca Thang Long, a historic restaurant in the district.
Located in the Old Quarter, easily reachable on foot from your exploration.
£10, 1 hour

3:00PM

Visit Ngoc Son Temple

Head to Ngoc Son Temple located on Hoan Kiem Lake's tiny island. Explore the beautiful architecture and learn about the temple's history.
A short walk from the Old Quarter, accessible via the iconic red bridge on the lake.
£2, 1 hour

5:00PM

Shopping at Dong Xuan Market

End your day with shopping at Dong Xuan Market, the oldest and largest market in Hanoi. Find souvenirs, clothing, and local street food.
Located in the Old Quarter, a quick walk from Ngoc Son Temple.
Variable, 1-2 hours
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Day 2: Ba Dinh District Discovery

Ba Dinh, Hanoi, Vietnam

8:00AM

Visit Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum

Start your day by paying respects to Ho Chi Minh at his preserved Mausoleum. Experience a significant part of Vietnamese history.
Located in Ba Dinh Square, a short taxi ride from the Old Quarter.
£1, 1-2 hours

10:00AM

Explore the Presidential Palace

Stroll around the Presidential Palace area and see the beautiful French colonial architecture. Don't miss the One Pillar Pagoda nearby.
Walking distance from the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, a pleasant walk through the Ba Dinh District.
£3, 1-2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Quan An Ngon

Enjoy a traditional Vietnamese meal at Quan An Ngon, known for its wide range of local dishes served in a charming setting.
A short taxi ride from the Presidential Palace, offering a diverse menu of Vietnamese cuisine.
£12, 1 hour

3:00PM

Visit the Temple of Literature

Explore Vietnam's first national university, the Temple of Literature. Admire the well-preserved architecture and tranquil courtyards.
A quick taxi ride from the restaurant, providing insights into Vietnam's educational history.
£2, 1-2 hours

5:00PM

Relax at West Lake

End your day by taking a leisurely walk around West Lake, the largest freshwater lake in Hanoi. Enjoy the serene atmosphere and sunset views.
A short taxi ride from the Temple of Literature, offering a peaceful escape from the city buzz.
Free, 1-2 hours
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Day 3: Tay Ho District Experience

Tay Ho, Hanoi, Vietnam

8:00AM

Visit Tran Quoc Pagoda

Start your day by exploring Tran Quoc Pagoda, the oldest Buddhist temple in Hanoi. Admire the stunning architecture and peaceful surroundings.
Located on a small peninsula on West Lake, a short taxi ride from the Old Quarter.
£1, 1-2 hours

10:00AM

Boat Ride on West Lake

Embark on a scenic boat ride on West Lake, passing by traditional Vietnamese houses on stilts and lush greenery. Experience the local way of life.
Boat services available near Tran Quoc Pagoda, offering a unique perspective of Hanoi.
£5, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at Sen Hanoi

Indulge in a Vietnamese feast at Sen Hanoi, overlooking the lake. Taste authentic flavours and enjoy the tranquil setting.
A short walk from the boat dock, providing a scenic dining experience in Tay Ho District.
£15, 1 hour

3:00PM

Explore Quang Ba Flower Market

Visit Quang Ba Flower Market, a vibrant hub of colourful flowers and local life. Witness the bustling atmosphere and fragrant scents.
A quick taxi ride from Sen Hanoi, offering a sensory experience in the heart of Tay Ho.
Free, 1 hour

5:00PM

Enjoy Sunset at Phu Tay Ho

Head to Phu Tay Ho, a temple on a small hill overlooking West Lake. Watch the sunset over the water and soak in the peaceful ambiance.
A short taxi ride from the flower market, providing a serene spot for sunset views in Tay Ho District.
£2, 1 hour
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Day 4: Immersive Day in the Old Quarter

Old Quarter, Hanoi, Vietnam

8:00AM

Attend a Cooking Class

Start your day with a hands-on Vietnamese cooking class in the Old Quarter. Learn to prepare traditional dishes and shop for ingredients at a local market.
Various cooking class venues available in the area, offering a culinary experience in the heart of Hanoi.
£20, 2-3 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Bun Cha Huong Lien

Try Bun Cha (grilled pork with noodles), a Hanoi specialty, at Bun Cha Huong Lien, famously visited by former President Obama.
Located in the Old Quarter, a short walk from the cooking class venue, offering a taste of local fame.
£8, 1 hour

2:00PM

Shop at Hang Gai Street

Explore Hang Gai Street, known for its silk products and traditional Vietnamese clothing. Discover unique souvenirs and gifts.
A shopping paradise in the Old Quarter, perfect for buying silk items and experiencing local craftsmanship.
Variable, 1-2 hours

4:00PM

Visit St. Joseph's Cathedral

Admire the neo-gothic architecture of St. Joseph's Cathedral, a prominent landmark in the Old Quarter. Take a moment of peace in the bustling city.
Located in the heart of the Old Quarter, easily accessible for a cultural and historical visit.
Free, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at Nang Tam Restaurant

End your day with a delightful dinner at Nang Tam Restaurant, offering a fusion of traditional and modern Vietnamese cuisine in a charming setting.
Located near St. Joseph's Cathedral, providing a culinary experience in the vibrant Old Quarter.
£18, 1-2 hours
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