Hanoi-2-day-itinerary

Day 1: Exploring Hanoi’s Old Quarter

Morning (9:00 am - 12:00 pm)

Places to Visit:

  • Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum: A must-visit for history buffs, the mausoleum is a grand monument honoring Vietnam’s beloved leader. Be sure to respect local customs and dress modestly.
    • Address: Ba Dinh District
    • Opening Hours: 8:00 am - 11:30 am (except Mondays and Fridays)
  • One Pillar Pagoda: A historic pagoda famous for its single pillar, said to symbolize the uniqueness of every child. Be prepared for a short walk from the mausoleum.
    • Address: To Tich Street
    • Opening Hours: 8:00 am - 5:30 pm

Activities:

  • Take a stroll through Hoan Kiem Lake, a peaceful oasis in the heart of Hanoi. You can walk or rent a bike to explore the surrounding area.
    • Address: Tran Hung Dao Street
    • Opening Hours: Open 24/7

Lunch (12:00 pm - 1:30 pm)

  • Pho Gia Truyen: A local favorite serving delicious and authentic pho. Try their signature dish, Pho Bo Tai.
    • Address: 15 Hang Ga Street
    • Opening Hours: 6:00 am - 10:00 pm

Afternoon (2:00 pm - 5:00 pm)

Places to Visit:

  • Hanoi Old Quarter: Explore the narrow streets and alleys of Hanoi’s historic district. You can find everything from traditional shops to modern cafes.
    • Address: Various streets in Hoan Kiem District
    • Opening Hours: Open 24/7

Activities:

  • Visit the Ngoc Son Temple, a beautiful temple located on a small island in Hoan Kiem Lake. You can rent a boat or walk to get there.
    • Address: Ngoc Son Street
    • Opening Hours: 8:00 am - 5:30 pm

Dinner (6:00 pm - 8:00 pm)

  • Bun Cha Huong Lien: A local favorite serving delicious bun cha and other Vietnamese dishes.
    • Address: 34 Hang Be Street
    • Opening Hours: 10:00 am - 9:00 pm

Night (9:00 pm - 11:00 pm)

  • Take a stroll along the Tran Quoc Toan Street, which offers a beautiful view of Hoan Kiem Lake at night.
    • Address: Tran Quoc Toan Street
    • Opening Hours: Open 24/7

Day 2: Exploring Hanoi’s Markets and Museums

Morning (9:00 am - 12:00 pm)

Places to Visit:

  • Dong Xuan Market: A large market selling everything from clothes to household items. Be prepared for a crowded and lively atmosphere.
    • Address: Dong Xuan Street
    • Opening Hours: Open 24/7

Activities:

  • Take a stroll through the Old Quarter’s alleys, which offer a glimpse into Hanoi’s rich history and culture.

Lunch (12:00 pm - 1:30 pm)

  • Cha Ca La Vong: A local favorite serving delicious grilled fish cooked in a clay pot.
    • Address: 14 Hang Trong Street
    • Opening Hours: 6:00 am - 10:00 pm

Afternoon (2:00 pm - 5:00 pm)

Places to Visit:

  • Hanoi Museum: A museum showcasing Hanoi’s history and culture. The museum is located in a beautiful colonial-style building.
    • Address: 16 Ngo Quyen Street
    • Opening Hours: 9:00 am - 4:30 pm

Dinner (6:00 pm - 8:00 pm)

  • KOTO: A social enterprise restaurant serving delicious and authentic Vietnamese dishes. The restaurant is a great place to learn about Hanoi’s culture.
    • Address: 59 Lieu Giai Street
    • Opening Hours: 11:00 am - 10:00 pm

Night (9:00 pm - 11:00 pm)

  • Take a stroll along the Tran Quoc Toan Street, which offers a beautiful view of Hoan Kiem Lake at night.
    • Address: Tran Quoc Toan Street
    • Opening Hours: Open 24/7

Where to Stay:

  • Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi: A luxurious hotel located in the heart of Hanoi’s Old Quarter. The hotel offers stunning views of Hoan Kiem Lake.
    • Address: 15 Ngo Quyen Street
    • Opening Hours: Open 24/7

Transportation:

  • Taxi: Taxis are widely available in Hanoi and can be hailed on the street or booked through a ride-hailing app. Be sure to agree on the fare before you start your journey.
  • Motorbike rental: Motorbikes are a popular mode of transportation in Hanoi. You can rent one from various shops around the city.

Tips:

  • Respect local customs: Dress modestly and remove your shoes when visiting temples or pagodas.
  • Bargain at markets: Markets like Dong Xuan Market offer great bargains, but be prepared to haggle.
  • Try local street food: Hanoi’s street food is delicious and affordable. Try dishes like pho, bun cha, and banh mi.

Things to Know:

  • Language: Vietnamese is the official language of Vietnam. Many locals speak English, especially in tourist areas.
  • Currency: The Vietnamese dong (VND) is the local currency. You can exchange your money at banks or use ATMs.
  • Weather: Hanoi’s weather is hot and humid during the summer months. Be prepared for rain showers.

Other Things of Interest:

  • Water puppetry show: A traditional form of Vietnamese entertainment that showcases puppets made from wood and fabric.
  • Massage parlors: Hanoi has many massage parlors offering a range of treatments, from traditional to modern techniques.
  • Hiking trails: Hanoi is surrounded by beautiful hiking trails, such as the Ba Vi National Park.