3-Day Adventure and Relaxation in Hanoi on a Shoestring Budget

Day 1: Exploring the City

Hanoi, Vietnam

8:00AM

Breakfast at Pho Bat Dan

Start your day with Hanoi's iconic Pho noodles at Pho Bat Dan, known for its rich broth and delectable beef toppings.
Located in the Old Quarter, it's a short walk from many accommodations.
VND 50,000, 1 hour

9:30AM

Explore Hoan Kiem Lake

Walk around the serene Hoan Kiem Lake, visiting Ngoc Son Temple and enjoying the beautiful surroundings.
Just 10 minutes on foot from the breakfast location.
VND 30,000 for the temple entrance, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Banh Mi 25

Taste a mouth-watering Banh Mi sandwich at Banh Mi 25, a favourite street-food spot that won't empty your wallet.
Located near Hoan Kiem Lake.
VND 25,000, 1 hour

1:30PM

Visit the Temple of Literature

Explore Vietnam's first university, the Temple of Literature, where you can appreciate ancient architecture and beautiful gardens.
A 15-minute taxi ride from Banh Mi 25.
VND 30,000, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Cyclo Tour in the Old Quarter

Enjoy a one-hour cyclo (bicycle taxi) tour through the bustling streets of the Old Quarter and experience the local culture.
Easily accessible, cyclos can be found nearby.
VND 50,000, 1 hour

5:00PM

Relax at the Hanoi Opera House

Spend your evening in front of the stunning Hanoi Opera House, enjoying the ambiance and taking photos.
A short 10-minute walk from the cyclo drop-off.
Free, 1 hour

6:30PM

Dinner at Cha Ca La Vong

Indulge in Cha Ca, a famous fish dish, at Cha Ca La Vong, an iconic eatery that dates back to the 19th century.
A 15-minute walk from the Opera House.
VND 100,000, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Nature and Culture

Hanoi, Vietnam

7:30AM

Breakfast at Cafe Giang

Start your day with a traditional Vietnamese coffee and breakfast at Cafe Giang, famous for its egg coffee.
Located near Hoan Kiem Lake.
VND 40,000, 1 hour

9:00AM

Day Trip to Ninh Binh

Take a local bus to Ninh Binh, a scenic area known for its karst landscapes and ancient temples.
Catch the bus from Hanoi's Giap Bat Bus Station, approximately a 20-minute ride from the cafe.
VND 100,000, 2 hours travel + 5 hours exploring

4:00PM

Return to Hanoi

Head back to Hanoi after a day of exploration in Ninh Binh.
Buses back to Hanoi depart regularly from Ninh Binh.
VND 100,000, 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Quan An Ngon

Enjoy a diverse selection of Vietnamese cuisine at Quan An Ngon, a beloved restaurant among locals and tourists alike.
A short taxi ride from your accommodation in Hanoi.
VND 80,000, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Art and Relaxation

Hanoi, Vietnam

8:00AM

Breakfast at Vinasun Coffee

Wake up with a hearty breakfast at Vinasun Coffee, popular for its Vietnamese pastries and delicious brews.
Walking distance from many hotels in the Old Quarter.
VND 35,000, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology

Discover Vietnam's diverse cultures and ethnic groups at the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology, filled with fascinating exhibits.
Take a bus or taxi from the cafe (approximately 20 minutes).
VND 40,000, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Bun Cha Huong Lien

Savour the local favourite, Bun Cha, at Bun Cha Huong Lien, where former US President Obama famously dined.
About a 15-minute taxi ride from the museum.
VND 60,000, 1 hour

1:30PM

Head to West Lake

Stroll around the beautiful West Lake, enjoying the fresh air and scenic views – a perfect spot for relaxation.
A short taxi ride from the restaurant.
VND 50,000, 2 hours

4:00PM

Enjoy a Massage

Pamper yourself with an affordable massage at one of the many spas near West Lake, rejuvenating after your travel adventures.
Find a local spa within walking distance at the lake.
VND 150,000, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at Hanoi Street Food

Finish your trip with a delightful experience of various street food options at Hanoi's vibrant night market.
Located around the corner from West Lake, a perfect ending to your journey.
VND 70,000, 1.5 hours
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