Hanoi, Vietnam-7-day-itinerary

7-Day Hanoi Itinerary:

Accommodation:

  • Budget: Hanoi Backpackers Hostel, The Sunflower Hotel
  • Mid-Range: Hanoi La Siesta Hotel & Spa, Apricot Hotel
  • Luxury: Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi, Lotte Hotel Hanoi

Transportation:

  • Grab/Gojek: Ride-hailing apps are cheap and convenient.
  • Taxi: Negotiate the fare beforehand or use the meter.
  • Bus: Cheap but can be crowded.
  • Motorbike Rental: Adventurous option, be aware of traffic.

Things to Know:

  • Currency: Vietnamese Dong (VND).
  • Language: Vietnamese. English is spoken in tourist areas.
  • Visa: Check visa requirements for your nationality.
  • Bargaining: Expected in markets and with street vendors.
  • Food Safety: Stick to reputable restaurants and street food stalls.

Itinerary:

Day 1: Arrival & Old Quarter Charm

  • Arrive at Noi Bai International Airport (HAN).
  • Take a Grab/taxi to your accommodation in the Old Quarter.
  • Explore Hoan Kiem Lake, Ngoc Son Temple, and the Turtle Tower.
  • Dinner: Enjoy traditional Vietnamese cuisine at Bun Cha Huong Lien (famous for Bun Cha) or Cha Ca La Vong (specializes in grilled turmeric fish).

Day 2: History & Culture

  • Morning: Visit the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and Museum, One Pillar Pagoda, and Presidential Palace.
  • Afternoon: Explore the Temple of Literature, Vietnam’s first national university.
  • Evening: Attend a traditional water puppet show at Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre.

Day 3: Artistic Exploration & Coffee Break

  • Morning: Wander through Hanoi’s art galleries in Hang Bong Street or visit the Vietnamese Women’s Museum.
  • Afternoon: Indulge in a “ca phe sua da” (Vietnamese iced coffee) at one of the many charming cafes, like Cafe Giang.
  • Evening: Enjoy dinner and live music at Bia Hoi Corner, famous for its cheap bia hoi (fresh draft beer).

Day 4: Halong Bay Cruise

  • Book a day trip or overnight cruise to Halong Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its stunning limestone karsts.
  • Enjoy kayaking, swimming, exploring caves, and breathtaking views.

Day 5: Foodie Adventure & Shopping

  • Morning: Take a cooking class and learn how to prepare delicious Vietnamese dishes.
  • Afternoon: Shop for souvenirs at the Dong Xuan Market or explore the silk shops in Hang Gai Street.
  • Evening: Indulge in a street food feast in the Old Quarter, trying local specialties like banh mi, pho, and spring rolls.

Day 6: Cycle Through Villages & Perfume Pagoda

  • Rent bicycles and cycle through the countryside to visit traditional villages like Bat Trang pottery village or Duong Lam ancient village.
  • Alternatively, take a boat trip to the Perfume Pagoda, a complex of Buddhist temples and shrines set amidst stunning limestone cliffs.

Day 7: Departure

  • Enjoy one last breakfast in Hanoi.
  • Purchase souvenirs at the airport.
  • Depart from Noi Bai International Airport (HAN).

Tips:

  • Learn some basic Vietnamese phrases.
  • Carry small denominations for tipping and street vendors.
  • Be aware of scams and always negotiate prices.
  • Dress modestly when visiting temples and pagodas.
  • Stay hydrated, especially during the hot summer months.
  • Embrace the vibrant culture and enjoy your time in Hanoi!