Perfect 2-Day Hanoi Itinerary vs. 1 Day Hanoi and 1 Day Ninh Binh Escape

Day 1: Hanoi City Exploration

Hanoi, Vietnam on June 20, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Pho Bat Dan

Start your day with authentic Hanoi pho at this local institution, famous for its rich broth and fresh herbs. It opens early, perfect for fueling up before sightseeing.
VND60000, 1h0m

9:30am

Visit Hoan Kiem Lake and Ngoc Son Temple

A peaceful urban lake centered with the historic Ngoc Son Temple makes for a scenic and cultural morning walk in Hanoi.
VND30000, 1h0m

10:45am

Explore Old Quarter

Wander the vibrant streets and alleys of the Old Quarter, known for its colonial architecture, street vendors, and artisan shops.
Free, 2h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at Bun Cha Huong Lien

Try the famous Bun Cha, grilled pork served with vermicelli noodles, a must-have Hanoi dish that was famously visited by President Obama.
VND80000, 1h0m

2:00pm

Visit Temple of Literature

Explore Vietnam’s first university dating back to 1070, featuring beautiful gardens and traditional architecture.
VND30000, 1h30m

3:45pm

Hoa Lo Prison Museum

Discover history at the “Hanoi Hilton,” gaining insight into Vietnam’s struggle during the French colonization and American War.
VND30000, 1h0m

5:00pm

Water Puppet Theater

Enjoy a traditional Vietnamese water puppet show, a unique cultural experience with performances starting around 5:00pm and 6:30pm.
VND100000, 1h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Cha Ca Thang Long

Feast on Hanoi’s famed cha ca, fried fish with dill and turmeric, a local specialty in a lively setting.
VND150000, 1h0m
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Day 2: Option 1: More Hanoi / Option 2: Ninh Binh Day Trip

Hanoi, Vietnam / Ninh Binh, Vietnam on June 21, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at Cafe Dinh

Enjoy traditional Vietnamese coffee and a light breakfast to prepare for a big day ahead.
VND40000, 0h45m

8:00am

Option 1: Visit Vietnam Museum of Ethnology

Explore the diverse cultures of Vietnam's ethnic groups through captivating exhibits and outdoor displays.
VND40000, 2h0m

10:30am

Option 1: St. Joseph's Cathedral

Visit this striking neo-Gothic cathedral in the heart of Hanoi, a great photo spot and peaceful refuge.
Free, 0h30m

11:15am

Lunch at Xoi Yen

Try Hanoi’s sticky rice dishes with a variety of toppings, a beloved local comfort food spot.
VND50000, 1h0m

12:30pm

Option 1: Afternoon shopping at Dong Xuan Market

Experience Hanoi’s largest indoor market with souvenirs, clothing, and delicious street snacks.
Free entry, 1h30m

2:00pm

Option 1: Relax at West Lake

Stroll around Hanoi’s largest freshwater lake known for scenic views, temples, and cafes.
Free, 1h0m

3:00pm

Option 2: Travel to Ninh Binh

Depart early for a 2-hour drive south to Ninh Binh, known as the 'Halong Bay on land'.
Transport cost ~ VND350000 (taxi/private car), 2h0m

5:00pm

Option 2: Tam Coc Boat Ride

Enjoy a relaxing 2-hour sampan boat ride through stunning limestone karsts and rice paddies, ideal in late afternoon light.
VND200000, 2h0m

7:30pm

Dinner at a local restaurant in Ninh Binh

Savor delicious Vietnamese countryside cuisine featuring goat meat and fresh vegetables.
VND150000, 1h0m

9:00pm

Return to Hanoi (optional)

Head back to Hanoi or stay overnight in Ninh Binh depending on your preference.
Transport cost ~ VND350000, 2h0m
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