3-Day Cultural and Culinary Journey Through Hanoi Including Train Street

Day 1: Train Street Exploration

Hanoi, Vietnam on May 27, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Cafe Giảng

Start your day with Vietnam’s famous egg coffee at Cafe Giảng, open from 7:00am to 10:00pm. This unique local drink is a must-try in Hanoi.
VND50000, 0h30m

9:00am

Explore Hanoi Train Street

Visit the fascinating Hanoi Train Street, where trains pass within inches of the homes and cafes. It’s a thrilling experience and fantastic photo opportunity. Best to visit mid-morning to avoid crowds.
Free, 1h

10:30am

Wander Hanoi Old Quarter

Explore the narrow streets of the Old Quarter, discover local shops, street food and vibrant culture. Don’t miss Dong Xuan Market to shop for souvenirs.
Free, 2h

12:30pm

Lunch at Bun Cha Huong Lien

Enjoy the iconic Hanoi dish Bun Cha, grilled pork served with noodles and herbs, famously eaten by President Obama during his visit. Open 10:00am to 9:00pm.
VND60000, 1h

2:00pm

Visit St. Joseph’s Cathedral

See the neo-Gothic cathedral dating from 1886, offering a quiet escape and a glimpse into French colonial architecture.
Free, 30m

3:00pm

Relax at Hoan Kiem Lake

Walk around the scenic Hoan Kiem Lake, visit the Ngoc Son Temple on the lake island, a peaceful cultural spot open until 5:00pm.
VND30000, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at Quan An Ngon

Dine at this popular restaurant offering a variety of authentic Vietnamese dishes in a charming setting. Open from 10:00am to 10:00pm.
VND150000, 1h30m

Day 2: Cultural Heritage

Hanoi, Vietnam on May 28, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at The Note Coffee

Enjoy coffee and pastries at this cozy cafe known for its positive notes left by visitors. Opens at 7:30am.
VND40000, 0h45m

9:30am

Temple of Literature

Visit Vietnam’s first university founded in 1070. The peaceful garden and historic architecture are great to explore. Open 8:00am to 5:00pm.
VND30000, 1h30m

11:30am

Vietnam Fine Arts Museum

Discover Vietnamese artistic heritage with an extensive collection showcasing diverse art forms. Open 8:30am to 5:00pm.
VND40000, 1h

1:00pm

Lunch at Cha Ca La Vong

Try the famous Cha ca dish (grilled fish with turmeric and dill), a Hanoi culinary specialty. Open 10:00am to 2:30pm.
VND120000, 1h

3:00pm

Water Puppet Theater

Watch a traditional Vietnamese water puppet show, an entertaining insight into local folklore and culture. Shows typically run at 3:00pm and 5:00pm, ticket required.
VND100000, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at Duong’s Restaurant & Cooking Class

Enjoy authentic Vietnamese dishes in a contemporary setting and optionally join a cooking class. Open until 10:00pm.
VND180000, 1h30m

Day 3: Ethnic and Scenic

Hanoi, Vietnam on May 29, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Cong Caphe

Start your day with strong Vietnamese coffee at this trendy cafe chain, open from 7:00am.
VND45000, 0h30m

9:00am

Vietnam Museum of Ethnology

Explore the rich cultural diversity of Vietnam’s 54 ethnic groups with engaging exhibits and outdoor displays. Open 8:30am to 5:30pm.
VND40000, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at Lam's Kitchen

Enjoy refined Vietnamese cuisine blending tradition and modernity, open 11:00am to 3:00pm.
VND150000, 1h

2:00pm

Stroll West Lake

Relax at Hanoi’s largest freshwater lake, enjoy scenic views and visit Tran Quoc Pagoda, the oldest Buddhist temple in Hanoi. Pagoda open until 5:00pm.
VND25000, 1h30m

6:30pm

Dinner at Home Vietnamese Restaurant

Savor home-style Vietnamese dishes made with fresh local ingredients in a welcoming atmosphere. Open until 9:30pm.
VND130000, 1h30m