Hanoi, Vietnam-2-day-itinerary

Hanoi Itinerary: 48 Hours of Culture, Cuisine & Charm

This itinerary packs the best of Hanoi into two days, offering a blend of historical exploration, cultural immersion, delicious food experiences, and charming encounters.

Day 1: Old Quarter Wonders and Tranquil Lakes

  • Morning (9:00 AM - 12:00 PM):

    • Explore the Old Quarter: Lose yourself in the labyrinthine streets of Hanoi’s historic center, brimming with colonial architecture, bustling markets, and hidden temples. Don’t miss:
      • Bach Ma Temple: Dedicated to a legendary horse-riding general.
      • Hoan Kiem Lake & Ngoc Son Temple: A serene oasis in the heart of the city.
    • Coffee Break: Indulge in a traditional Vietnamese coffee (cà phê sữa đá) at one of the many charming cafes in the Old Quarter.

  • Afternoon (12:00 PM - 4:00 PM):

    • Lunch: Savor authentic Hanoi street food like bun cha (grilled pork with noodles), pho (beef noodle soup), or banh mi (Vietnamese baguette sandwich) at a local eatery.

    • Hoa Lo Prison Museum: Learn about Vietnam’s struggle for independence and the experiences of prisoners held by the French colonial regime.

  • Evening (4:00 PM - 9:00 PM):

    • Water Puppet Show: Experience this unique Vietnamese art form at Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre.

    • Dinner: Enjoy a delightful meal at Home Hanoi, known for its delicious Vietnamese dishes and cozy ambiance.

Day 2: Temple Hopping & Culinary Delights

  • Morning (9:00 AM - 12:00 PM):

    • Temple of Literature: Pay homage to Confucianism and Vietnam’s scholars at this serene temple complex.

    • One Pillar Pagoda: Admire the unique architecture of this single-pillar pagoda, a symbol of Hanoi.

  • Afternoon (12:00 PM - 4:00 PM):

    • Lunch: Explore the vibrant street food scene near West Lake and sample dishes like bun bo Nam Bo (beef noodle soup with southern Vietnamese flavors) or cha ca La Vong (grilled turmeric fish).

    • Cooking Class: Immerse yourself in Vietnamese cuisine by taking a hands-on cooking class at Hanoi Cooking Centre.

  • Evening (4:00 PM - 9:00 PM):

    • Sunset Stroll: Enjoy the sunset views over West Lake from Truc Bach Lake.

    • Dinner & Drinks: Head to Bia Hoi Corner for cheap and cheerful bia hoi (freshly brewed beer) and enjoy the lively atmosphere.

Where to Stay:

  • Budget: Hanoi Backpackers Hostel, Vietnam Backpackers

  • Mid-Range: La Siesta Hotel, Essence Hanoi Hotel

  • Luxury: Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi, Hilton Hanoi Opera

Transportation:

  • Grab/Gojek: Convenient ride-hailing apps for getting around the city.
  • Taxi: Widely available but negotiate fares beforehand.
  • Cyclo: Traditional bicycle rickshaw for a unique experience.
  • Walking: The Old Quarter is easily explored on foot.

Things to Know:

  • Currency: Vietnamese Dong (VND)
  • Visa: Check visa requirements based on your nationality.
  • Weather: Hanoi experiences hot and humid summers, mild winters, and occasional rain showers throughout the year.
  • Language: Vietnamese is the official language. English is spoken in tourist areas but learning a few basic phrases will be helpful.

Tips:

  • Haggle when shopping at markets.
  • Be aware of your belongings in crowded places.
  • Try egg coffee (cà phê trứng), a unique Hanoi specialty.
  • Visit the Dong Xuan Market for souvenirs and local crafts.
  • Take a day trip to Halong Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Enjoy your adventure in Hanoi!