Relaxing 3-Day Itinerary in Hanoi

  • Day 1: Hoan Kiem Lake
    10 minutes (2.2km) from Hanoi Old Quarter

    Hoan Kiem Lake is a peaceful and scenic lake in the heart of Hanoi. The lake is surrounded by charming streets, local cafes, and shops. Take a stroll around the lake, enjoy the greenery or sit down and relax by the lake.

  • Day 2: Temple of Literature
    20 minutes (5km) from Hoan Kiem Lake

    The Temple of Literature is a beautiful and tranquil complex that is often described as the first university of Vietnam. It’s spread over five courtyards, with beautiful gardens, lakes, and impressive architecture. Enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and history of the Temple of Literature.

  • Day 3: Spa Day at La Belle Signature and Water Puppet Show
    10 minutes (2.9km) from Hanoi Old Quarter to La Belle Signature; 20 minutes (6.3km) from La Belle Signature to Water Puppet Theatre

    Pamper yourself on your last day in Hanoi at La Belle Signature Spa. The spa offers various treatments and massage services that will make you feel relaxed and rejuvenated. In the evening, enjoy a unique and traditional art form at the famous Water Puppet Theatre. This show is a great way to end your trip and learn about traditional Vietnamese culture.

Time and Costs Estimates

  • Hoan Kiem Lake (1-2 hours, free)
  • Temple of Literature (1-2 hours, 20,000 VND)
  • La Belle Signature Spa (2-3 hours, 800,000 VND)
  • Water Puppet Theatre (1 hour, 100,000 VND)
  • Total Estimated Costs: 920,000 VND

Transportation

To get around Hanoi, you can use public transportation, hire a private car or taxi or rent a motorbike. Motorbike rental costs about 200,000-300,000 VND/day, while private car/taxi will cost around 400,000-500,000 VND/day. Public transport is the cheapest option, costing around 7,000-9,000 VND for a bus ride. The estimated travel time between each location is added in the itinerary above.

Useful Tips

If you have more time in Hanoi, other interesting places to visit are the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, the Old Quarter or the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology. For a longer trip or getaway, try an overnight cruise at Halong Bay, around 3-4 hours from Hanoi. Alternatively, if you have less time, you can skip the Water Puppet Theatre, or visit the spa for a shorter period.

Airports

Hanoi has one airport: Noi Bai International Airport (HAN), located about 28km from the city centre. It takes approximately 40-50 minutes by car/taxi or 1 hour by bus to reach the city centre from the airport.

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