Hanoi-6-day-itinerary

Hanoi Adventure: 6-Day Itinerary

Accommodation: For this itinerary, I recommend staying in the Old Quarter. It’s vibrant, packed with restaurants and cafes, close to major sights, and offers a range of accommodation options from budget hostels to boutique hotels.

  • Budget: Hanoi Backpackers Hostel, Little Hanoi Hostel
  • Mid-range: Essence Hotel, La Siesta Classic Hotel
  • Luxury: Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi, Hilton Hanoi Opera

Transportation:

  • Grab/Gojek: Download these ride-hailing apps for affordable and convenient transportation within the city.
  • Taxi: Easily available but negotiate the price beforehand. Use reputable companies like Mai Linh or Taxi Group.
  • Cyclo: A fun way to experience the Old Quarter, but be prepared to haggle on the price.

Things to Know:

  • Currency: Vietnamese Dong (VND). ATMs are widely available.
  • Language: Vietnamese. English is spoken in tourist areas but learning a few basic phrases will be appreciated.
  • Safety: Hanoi is generally safe, but be aware of pickpockets in crowded areas.

Day 1: Arrival & Old Quarter Exploration

  • Morning: Arrive at Noi Bai International Airport (HAN) and take a Grab/taxi to your hotel in the Old Quarter. Settle in and grab lunch at Bún Chả Hương Liên for delicious grilled pork vermicelli noodles.
  • Afternoon: Explore the labyrinthine streets of the Old Quarter, visit Hoan Kiem Lake, and admire Ngoc Son Temple.
  • Evening: Enjoy a traditional Vietnamese dinner at Home Hanoi, followed by drinks at a rooftop bar overlooking the city lights.

Day 2: Culture & History

  • Morning: Visit the Temple of Literature, a serene complex dedicated to Confucius and Vietnam’s education system.
  • Afternoon: Explore the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum Complex, including Ho Chi Minh’s Stilt House, the Presidential Palace, and the One Pillar Pagoda.
  • Evening: Enjoy a water puppet show at the Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre, followed by dinner at Cau Go Vietnamese Cuisine.

Day 3: Hanoi’s Culinary Delights

  • Morning: Take a cooking class and learn to prepare authentic Vietnamese dishes like pho, spring rolls, and banh mi.
  • Afternoon: Explore the bustling Dong Xuan Market, where you can find everything from fresh produce to souvenirs.
  • Evening: Indulge in a street food tour through the Old Quarter, sampling local delicacies like bun bo nam bo (beef noodle soup) and bia hoi (fresh draft beer).

Day 4: Day Trip to Halong Bay

  • Full day: Embark on an unforgettable cruise through the stunning limestone karsts of Halong Bay. Enjoy kayaking, swimming, and exploring hidden caves.
  • Evening: Relax at your hotel after a long day of exploring.

Day 5: Art & Shopping

  • Morning: Visit the Vietnam Fine Arts Museum, showcasing traditional and contemporary Vietnamese art.
  • Afternoon: Browse the galleries and boutiques in the French Quarter, known for its colonial architecture and chic shops.
  • Evening: Enjoy a farewell dinner at The Hanoi Social Club, a popular spot with live music and delicious cocktails.

Day 6: Departure

  • Morning: Enjoy breakfast at your hotel before heading to Noi Bai International Airport (HAN) for your departure.

Tips:

  • Bargain: It’s customary to haggle prices in markets and when hiring cyclo drivers.
  • Learn some basic Vietnamese phrases: “Xin chào” (hello), “cảm ơn” (thank you), and “không” (no) will go a long way.
  • Carry small denominations of Vietnamese Dong: This will make transactions easier, especially at street stalls.

Other things of interest:

  • Ethnographic Museum: Explore the cultural diversity of Vietnam’s 54 ethnic groups.
  • Hoa Lo Prison: Learn about Vietnam’s history during the French colonial period and the American War.
  • Tran Quoc Pagoda: A beautiful ancient pagoda on the shores of West Lake.

Enjoy your adventure in Hanoi!