3-Day Family Friendly Itinerary in Hanoi, Vietnam

Day 1: Exploring the Old Quarter

Hanoi, Vietnam

8:00AM

Breakfast at Pho Thin

Start your day with a delicious bowl of Hanoi's famous Pho at Pho Thin, a local favorite known for its rich broth and tender beef.
Head to the Old Quarter after breakfast, which is a short 10-minute drive away.
VND 80,000, 1 hour

9:30AM

Explore the Old Quarter

Wander through the bustling streets of the Old Quarter, where you can enjoy the vibrant atmosphere filled with shops selling local crafts.
Walk around the area as the streets are compact and walkable.
Free, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Bun Cha Huong Lien

Savor a local delicacy, Bun Cha, grilled pork served with rice noodles, at the restaurant made famous by President Obama’s visit.
It's about a 15-minute walk from the Old Quarter.
VND 100,000, 1 hour

1:30PM

Visit Hoan Kiem Lake

Relax by the serene Hoan Kiem Lake, and enjoy the scenic views while the kids can play in the surrounding park.
The lake is just a short 5-minute walk from the lunch spot.
Free, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Ngoc Son Temple

Explore the charming Ngoc Son Temple on the lake, where you can learn about local legends and enjoy the views.
Access via a wooden bridge from the lake's edge.
VND 30,000, 1 hour

5:00PM

Dinner at Cha Ca La Vong

End your day with Cha Ca, a delicious grilled fish dish that Hanoi is known for, at this historic eatery.
About a 10-minute taxi ride away.
VND 300,000, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Cultural Discoveries

Hanoi, Vietnam

8:00AM

Breakfast at Banh Mi 25

Enjoy a traditional Vietnamese Banh Mi sandwich filled with your choice of meats and fresh veggies, a perfect start for the day.
A 10-minute walk from your accommodation.
VND 50,000, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum

A visit to the iconic Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum will provide insights into Vietnam's history and honor the country’s revered leader.
It’s a short taxi ride, about 15 minutes from breakfast.
Free, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Explore the One Pillar Pagoda

Just a stone's throw from the mausoleum, this ancient pagoda built on stilts is an architectural marvel surrounded by gardens.
Walk from the mausoleum, as the sites are very close.
Free, 30 minutes

12:00PM

Lunch at KOTO

Dine at KOTO, a restaurant that trains disadvantaged youth in hospitality, offering a delicious range of modern Vietnamese cuisine.
A 10-minute taxi drive from the pagoda.
VND 150,000, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre

Witness the unique Water Puppet Show, a traditional Vietnamese art form that will captivate both adults and children.
It is a 20-minute taxi ride back toward the Old Quarter.
VND 100,000, 1 hour

4:00PM

Visit the Temple of Literature

Explore the beautiful Temple of Literature, Vietnam's first university, set in tranquil gardens and adorned with ancient architecture.
A short 10-minute taxi ride from the theatre.
VND 30,000, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Green Mango

Enjoy a fusion of Vietnamese and international dishes at this family-friendly restaurant with diverse menu options.
Around a 15-minute walk from the Temple of Literature.
VND 250,000, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Adventure and Nature

Hanoi, Vietnam

8:00AM

Breakfast at Giang Coffee

Start your day with a traditional egg coffee, a unique Hanoi specialty, paired with some local pastries.
A 10-minute walk from your hotel.
VND 70,000, 1 hour

9:30AM

Day Trip to Ba Vi National Park

Head to Ba Vi National Park for a day of family hiking, exploring beautiful nature trails and enjoying panoramic views.
Book a private car or join a guided tour to this approximately 1.5-hour drive from Hanoi.
VND 500,000 (for transportation), 6 hours

12:30PM

Picnic Lunch

Enjoy a packed lunch amidst nature, embracing the picnic atmosphere surrounded by the stunning views of the park.
Prepare in advance or buy from local vendors before the trip.
VND 100,000, 1 hour

4:00PM

Return to Hanoi

Travel back to the city to refresh after an adventurous day in nature, allowing the children some rest.
Car ride back takes approximately 1.5 hours.
Included in the earlier transportation cost., 1.5 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at Hooters Hanoi

End your trip with a fun dining experience at Hooters, offering American fare and a lively atmosphere ideal for families.
It's a 10-minute taxi ride from your hotel.
VND 300,000, 1.5 hours
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