How many days do you need in Hanoi?

This itinerary covers 7 days in Hanoi, which is a great amount of time to explore the main highlights. Depending on your pace and interests, you could extend or shorten the trip.

What is the best itinerary for Hanoi?

Plan your perfect 7 days trip to Hanoi. This detailed travel itinerary includes daily activities, local recommendations, and insider tips to make your journey unforgettable.

7-Day Family Friendly Itinerary in Hanoi, Vietnam

Day 1: Explore the City

Hanoi, Vietnam

8:00AM

Breakfast at Cafe Giang

Start your day with a deliciously unique Egg Coffee at the famed Cafe Giang, a local gem the whole family will enjoy.

VND100,000, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Hoan Kiem Lake

Take a stroll around the serene Hoan Kiem Lake, where you can enjoy the scenic views and local morning exercises.

VND30,000, 1.5 hours

11:30AM

Lunch at Bun Cha Dac Kim

Savor authentic Bun Cha, a dish of grilled pork and noodles that's perfect for families.

VND150,000, 1 hour

1:00PM

Explore the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology

Discover Vietnam's diverse cultures through interactive exhibits perfect for kids.

VND40,000, 2 hours

3:30PM

Return to the Old Quarter & Street Food

Enjoy a guided street food tour sampling local snacks that excite everyone’s taste buds.

VND250,000, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Home Hanoi Restaurant

Unwind with an array of traditional dishes that cater to all ages in a cozy environment.

VND250,000, 1.5 hours

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Day 2: Cultural Immersion

Hanoi, Vietnam

8:00AM

Breakfast at Pho Gia Truyen

Experience the world-famous Pho at its best in a local favorite spot.

VND80,000, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum

Pay respects to Vietnam's beloved leader and learn about his remarkable life and legacy.

Free, 1 hour

11:00AM

Explore the One Pillar Pagoda

Marvel at the unique architecture of this iconic Buddhist temple adjacent to the mausoleum.

Free, 30 minutes

12:00PM

Lunch at Koto Restaurant

Enjoy a meal at Koto, a social enterprise that trains underprivileged youth in hospitality.

VND200,000, 1 hour

2:00PM

Visit the Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre

Experience a delightful water puppet show that showcases Vietnamese folklore, entertaining both young and old.

VND100,000, 1 hour

4:00PM

Explore the Old Quarter: Shopping & Games

Stroll through the bustling Old Quarter, where you can shop for souvenirs and try local games.

Free, 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Quan An Ngon

Enjoy a family-style meal with various traditional dishes from across Vietnam, perfect for sharing.

VND200,000, 1.5 hours

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Day 3: Day Trip to Halong Bay

Hanoi, Vietnam

7:00AM

Early Breakfast at the Hotel

Fuel up for the day with a hearty breakfast at your hotel.

Included, 30 minutes

8:00AM

Travel to Halong Bay

Take a scenic 4-hour drive to the breathtaking Halong Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Included in tour package, 4 hours

12:00PM

Lunch on the Boat

Indulge in a delicious seafood lunch served aboard the boat as you cruise among the limestone karsts.

Included in tour package, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Explore Sung Sot Cave

Visit the spectacular Sung Sot Cave, filled with stunning formations perfect for exploration and photos.

Included in tour package, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Kayak Experience

Enjoy an exciting kayaking adventure around the islands, allowing kids to paddle and explore the bay.

Included in tour package, 1 hour

5:00PM

Return to Hanoi

Head back to Hanoi after a memorable day, full of beautiful sights.

Included in tour package, 4 hours

9:00PM

Dinner at Cha Ca La Vong

Cap off your day with the famous fish dish at this iconic restaurant that specializes in Cha Ca.

VND200,000, 1.5 hours

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Day 4: Ninh Binh Adventure

Ninh Binh, Vietnam

7:00AM

Breakfast at the Hotel

Enjoy a good breakfast at your hotel before heading out.

Included, 1 hour

8:00AM

Travel to Ninh Binh

Enjoy a carefree 2-hour drive to Ninh Binh, known for its stunning landscapes.

VND1,500,000 (shared car), 2 hours

10:00AM

Visit Tam Coc by Boat

Board a traditional boat for a relaxing row through lush rice paddies and limestone hills.

VND150,000, 1.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Tam Coc Bungalow Restaurant

Recharge with a Vietnamese meal featuring regional specialties.

VND150,000, 1 hour

1:30PM

Explore Bich Dong Pagoda

Discover the beautiful, ancient temples nestled in the caves of Bich Dong, perfect for a little exploration.

VND50,000, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Visit the Trang An Scenic Landscape Complex

Enjoy a tour of this UNESCO World Heritage site famous for its spectacular natural beauty.

VND200,000, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Family Restaurant

End a fun day in Ninh Binh with a casual dinner at a local family-friendly restaurant.

VND150,000, 1.5 hours

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Day 5: Discover Ninh Binh

Ninh Binh, Vietnam

7:30AM

Breakfast at the Hotel

Fuel up with a delightful breakfast at your hotel restaurant.

Included, 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit Hoa Lu Ancient Capital

Travel back in time as you explore the ruins of Hoa Lu and learn about Vietnam’s history.

VND50,000, 2 hours

11:30AM

Lunch Nearby Hoa Lu

Enjoy a simple yet delicious meal at a local eatery before heading out for more adventures.

VND100,000, 1 hour

1:00PM

Explore Mua Caves

Climb the steps to Mua Caves for breathtaking panoramic views of Tam Coc.

VND100,000, 2 hours

4:00PM

Relax at a Local Park

Unwind with some downtime at a local park, allowing the kids to play.

Free, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at the Hotel

Savor a delicious dinner at your hotel's restaurant, reflecting on the adventures of the day.

Included, 1.5 hours

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Day 6: Journey Back to Hanoi

Hanoi, Vietnam

8:00AM

Breakfast at the Hotel

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast as you prepare for your return trip to Hanoi.

Included, 1 hour

9:30AM

Travel to Hanoi

Take a refreshing 2-hour drive back to Hanoi via your private car.

VND1,500,000 (shared car), 2 hours

11:30AM

Lunch at Pho 24

Grab a bowl of Pho at a popular chain, loved by both locals and tourists alike.

VND100,000, 1 hour

1:00PM

Visit the Hanoi Citadel

An educational visit to the ancient citadel where history comes alive for children.

VND30,000, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit the Botanical Gardens

Enjoy the beautiful landscapes and let kids enjoy some free playtime.

Free, 1.5 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at Bun Bo Nam Bo

Gather for dinner at this charming noodle eatery known for its Bun Bo dish.

VND120,000, 1.5 hours

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Day 7: Final Day in Hanoi

Hanoi, Vietnam

8:00AM

Breakfast at the Hotel

Indulge in one last breakfast at your hotel, reminiscing about your week of adventures.

Included, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit the Perfume Pagoda

Take a half-day trip to the serene Perfume Pagoda and marvel at the scenic vistas.

VND1,200,000, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at a Local Restaurant

Enjoy a local meal featuring popular dishes that kids will love.

VND100,000, 1 hour

2:00PM

Return to Hanoi

Travel back to Hanoi, enjoying the beautiful scenery along the way.

VND1,200,000, 2 hours

4:30PM

Last-minute Shopping in the Old Quarter

Take advantage of your last hours for some souvenir shopping in the vibrant streets.

Free (shopping costs vary), 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Farewell Dinner at The Vietnam Restaurant

Conclude your family trip with a farewell dinner featuring outstanding Vietnamese cuisine.

VND250,000, 2 hours

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Step 1 Outline Preview:

7-Day Family Friendly Itinerary in Hanoi, Vietnam

Day 1: Explore the City

8:00AM

9:30AM

11:30AM

1:00PM

3:30PM

6:00PM

Day 2: Cultural Immersion

8:00AM

9:30AM

11:00AM

12:00PM

2:00PM

4:00PM

6:30PM

Day 3: Day Trip to Halong Bay

7:00AM

8:00AM

12:00PM

1:30PM

3:30PM

5:00PM

9:00PM

Day 4: Ninh Binh Adventure

7:00AM

8:00AM

10:00AM

12:00PM

1:30PM

3:30PM

6:00PM

Day 5: Discover Ninh Binh

7:30AM

9:00AM

11:30AM

1:00PM

4:00PM

6:00PM

Day 6: Journey Back to Hanoi

8:00AM

9:30AM

11:30AM

1:00PM

3:00PM

5:30PM

Day 7: Final Day in Hanoi

8:00AM

9:30AM

12:30PM

2:00PM

4:30PM

6:00PM

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