Hanoi, Vietnam-6-day-itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Hanoi

  • Morning: Arrive at Noi Bai International Airport (HAN)
  • Afternoon: Check-in to your hotel (see below for recommendations)
  • Evening: Visit the Old Quarter, a historic area filled with narrow streets and colonial architecture
    • Must-visit places:
      • Dong Xuan Market: A bustling marketplace selling everything from souvenirs to street food
      • Hoan Kiem Lake: A peaceful oasis in the heart of the city
    • Dinner: Try some local street food at 54 Ta Hien Street, a popular spot for banh cuon (rice noodle rolls) and bun cha (grilled pork with rice noodles)
  • Tips:
    • Be prepared for crowds and noise in the Old Quarter
    • Haggle prices when shopping from street vendors or markets
    • Learn basic Vietnamese phrases like “xin chào” (hello), “cảm ơn” (thank you), and “tạm biệt” (goodbye)

Day 2: Temple of Literature & Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum

  • Morning: Visit the Temple of Literature, a historic temple dedicated to Confucius
    • Learn about Vietnam’s cultural heritage and see the famous “Stelae of Scholars”
    • Take a peaceful walk through the surrounding gardens
  • Afternoon: Visit the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, a grand monument honoring Vietnam’s beloved leader
    • See Ho Chi Minh’s embalmed body (note: dress modestly and respect for the site)
    • Explore the Presidential Palace and the nearby Museum of the Vietnamese Revolution
  • Evening:
    • Dinner: Enjoy some traditional Vietnamese cuisine at Cha Ca La Vong, a highly-recommended restaurant serving grilled fish in a clay pot
    • Explore: Wander around the nearby streets and explore the local night market
  • Tips:
    • Wear respectful clothing when visiting the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum
    • Try some traditional Vietnamese desserts like banh flan or che (sweet soup)

Day 3: Hanoi’s Markets

  • Morning: Visit Dong Xuan Market again, but this time explore the surrounding streets and alleys
    • Find local shops selling handicrafts, souvenirs, and street food
    • See the famous “snake alley” and try some snake wine (optional)
  • Afternoon: Visit the Long Bien Market, a bustling marketplace selling fresh produce, meat, and seafood
    • Try some local street food like bun cha or com tam (broken rice)
    • Explore the surrounding streets and see the local vendors and shops
  • Evening:
    • Dinner: Enjoy some more traditional Vietnamese cuisine at Madam Hien Restaurant, a popular spot for delicious and authentic dishes
    • Explore: Wander around the nearby streets and enjoy the lively atmosphere of the Old Quarter

Day 4: Ha Long Bay

  • Morning: Take an early bus or taxi to Ha Long Bay ( approx. 3-4 hours)
    • Visit one of the most stunning natural wonders in Vietnam
    • See the thousands of limestone islands and islets rising out of the emerald waters
  • Afternoon:
    • Lunch: Enjoy a delicious seafood meal on a floating restaurant or at a local eatery
    • Explore: Take a boat tour to explore the caves, grottos, and hidden beaches of Ha Long Bay
    • Sunset: Watch the stunning sunset over the bay from a secluded beach or cave
  • Tips:
    • Be prepared for crowds and noise in Ha Long Bay during peak season
    • Respect local regulations and rules when visiting the national park
    • Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat to protect yourself from the sun

Day 5: Ba Dinh District

  • Morning: Visit the Ba Dinh Temple, a beautiful temple dedicated to the Buddha
    • See the stunning architecture and intricate carvings of the temple
    • Take a peaceful walk through the surrounding gardens and courtyards
  • Afternoon:
    • Visit: The Vietnam National Museum of Ethnology, which showcases the rich cultural heritage of Vietnam’s 54 ethnic groups
    • Lunch: Enjoy some local street food or visit one of the many restaurants in the area
    • Explore: Wander around the nearby streets and explore the local markets and shops

Day 6: Last Day in Hanoi

  • Morning:
    • Visit the famous Hang Gai Street, a popular spot for shopping and souvenirs
    • Try some last-minute shopping or souvenir hunting
  • Afternoon: Spend your last day exploring any place you missed earlier or revisit a favorite spot
  • Evening:
    • Dinner: Enjoy a farewell dinner at one of the many highly-recommended restaurants in Hanoi
    • Departure: Head back to the airport for your departure flight

Accommodation Recommendations:

  1. Hotel Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi: A luxurious hotel with stunning colonial architecture and excellent service.
  2. Hotel La Siesta Hanoi: A boutique hotel with elegant rooms, a relaxing courtyard, and friendly staff.
  3. Hotel Pullman Hanoi Centre: A modern hotel with comfortable rooms, an indoor pool, and easy access to the city center.

Transportation:

  • Taxi: Metered taxis are widely available in Hanoi, but always check the meter is turned on before starting your journey.
  • Bus: Hanoi has a comprehensive public bus system; you can take bus number 36 or 37 from the Old Quarter to Ha Long Bay.
  • Motorbike taxi: A convenient and affordable way to get around the city; just be sure to wear protective gear.

Tips for Tourists:

  1. Be respectful of local customs and traditions, especially when visiting temples or cultural sites.
  2. Haggle prices when shopping from street vendors or markets.
  3. Learn basic Vietnamese phrases like “xinh chào” (hello), “cảm ơn” (thank you), and “tạm biệt” (goodbye).
  4. Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat to protect yourself from the sun.
  5. Respect local regulations and rules when visiting national parks or protected areas.

I hope this itinerary helps you plan your trip to Hanoi!