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!