Hanoi itinerary: Top attractions, fun activities and delicious food

From ancient temples to colonial architectural works, Hanoi is a city that reflects the influences of the many cultures that have left their mark here. In this Hanoi travel guide, we will provide you with a detailed Hanoi itinerary that helps you experience the best of Hanoi.

If you are planning a Hanoi itinerary, you will not want to miss the city’s top attractions. From historic landmarks to cultural hotspots, Hanoi has plenty to offer visitors.

1. Must-visit attractions in a Hanoi itinerary

1.1. Ho Chi Minh Complex

Ho Chi Minh Complex is dedicated to the life and legacy of Ho Chi Minh, the revolutionary leader who played a pivotal role in the country’s fight for independence.

The complex features several important landmarks, including Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, Ba Dinh Square, Presidential Palace, Ho Chi Minh’s Stilt House, and Ho Chi Minh Museum. 

1.2. Hoan Kiem Lake – A must-include in any Hanoi city tour itinerary

Hoan Kiem Lake is one of the most iconic landmarks in Hanoi, a popular destination for tourists and locals alike. The lake is surrounded by several important attractions, including Turtle Tower, Ngoc Son Temple, and The Huc Bridge.

1.3. VinKE & Vinpearl Aquarium Times City

VinKE & Vinpearl Aquarium Times City is an all-encompassing entertainment complex situated in the heart of Vincom Mega Mall Times City in Hanoi. 

VinKE provides a perfect blend of physical activities, education, and entertainment, allowing children to learn and have fun at the same time.

Meanwhile, Vinpearl Aquarium is one of the largest aquariums in Vietnam, showcasing over 30,000 marine creatures from all over the world.

>>> Book tickets of VinKE & Vinpearl Aquarium to have a more exciting trip!

1.4. Temple of Literature

The Temple of Literature is a historical and cultural gem that should be on every Hanoi itinerary. Originally built as a Confucian temple in 1070, it later became Vietnam’s first university, where scholars and aristocrats would come to study and take exams. 

The temple complex features five courtyards, two beautiful lakes, and a number of temples, pavilions, and statues. Visitors can stroll through the tranquil gardens, admire the traditional architecture, and learn about the history and culture of Vietnam.

1.5. One Pillar Pagoda

One Pillar Pagoda is a significant and iconic temple that holds a special place in Hanoi’s history and culture. Constructed in 1049 by Emperor Ly Thai Tong, this small shrine is a unique architectural marvel built on a single stone pillar in the middle of a pond.

1.6. Tran Quoc Pagoda

Located on a small islet in Hanoi’s West Lake, Tran Quoc Pagoda is an ancient Buddhist pagoda that holds great historical and religious significance. With a history that spans over 1,500 years, the pagoda is one of the oldest and holiest sites in the city. At the heart of the pagoda is a magnificent tower that stands 15 meters tall, adorned with elaborate carvings and colorful embellishments.

1.7. Hanoi Old Quarter

Hanoi Old Quarter is a network of streets and alleys in the heart of Hanoi that has been preserved for over a thousand years. The quarter is famous for its French colonial architecture, traditional Vietnamese buildings, pagodas, and temples. This is also a food lover’s paradise, with an endless array of street food stalls and local restaurants serving up some of the best Vietnamese dishes.

1.8. Museums in Hanoi

Hanoi is a city with a rich cultural and historical heritage, and one of the best ways to learn about its past is through its museums.

• Fine Arts Museum Hanoi: Located in a beautiful French colonial building, Fine Arts Museum Hanoi showcases a collection of over 20,000 pieces of art from various periods of Vietnamese history.
• Vietnamese Women’s Museum: The museum’s exhibits cover a wide range of topics, including the role of women in family, society, and the country’s struggle for independence.
• Hoa Lo Prison: Once a notorious prison used by French colonialists to imprison Vietnamese revolutionaries, Hoa Lo Prison has been converted into a museum that tells the story of the country’s struggle for independence.

1.9. Long Bien Bridge

Built in 1903, Long Bien bridge was designed by Gustave Eiffel, the same engineer who designed the Eiffel Tower in Paris. This bridge is a historic and architectural landmark that holds a special place in the hearts of Hanoians. With its distinctive structure and rusty orange color, Long Bien Bridge is a popular spot for photographers and travelers looking to capture the essence of Hanoi.

1.10. What to see in Hanoi in one day? West Lake

West Lake is the largest lake in Hanoi and one of the city’s most scenic attractions. Located in the northwestern corner of the city, the lake is surrounded by lush greenery, parks, and gardens, making it a popular spot for locals and tourists alike.

Visitors can take a leisurely stroll around the lake, rent a bike to cycle around, or hop on a swan boat tour. West Lake is also known for its many restaurants and cafes that offer stunning lake views and delicious local cuisine.

1.11. Thang Long Imperial Citadel

If you are a history buff or have an interest in Vietnamese culture, make sure to visit Thang Long Imperial Citadel. This historic site is considered to be one of the most significant historical landmarks in Vietnam, offering a fascinating insight into the country’s rich cultural heritage. 

Built in the 7th century, the citadel served as the political hub of Vietnam for more than 1,300 years. Visitors to Thang Long Imperial Citadel can embark on a historical journey to explore the complex and learn about Vietnam’s dynasties, imperial courts, and architecture.

2. Activities not to be missed in a Hanoi travel itinerary

No trip to Hanoi is complete without experiencing the city’s unique blend of culture, history, and adventure. From ancient landmarks and cultural performances to water shows and vibrant nightlife, Hanoi offers a wide range of activities that cater to every traveler’s taste.

Whether you want to learn about Vietnam’s rich cultural heritage, indulge in delicious street food, or explore the city’s vibrant neighborhoods, there is always something to do in Hanoi. Some activities not to be missed in your Hanoi itinerary are:

• Watching water puppet shows
• Listening to ca tru singing
• Admiring the panoramic views of Hanoi from above
• Experiencing the walking streets in Hanoi
• Exploring the bustling Ta Hien Street
• Stand-up paddleboarding on West Lake
• Visiting Hanoi’s markets, such as Dong Xuan Market or Quang Ba Flower Market

>>> Explore: Hanoi things to do: TOP activities to put on your bucket list right away

3. What to eat during the Hanoi itinerary?

A highlight in any Hanoi itinerary is undoubtedly the food. With a rich culinary culture that blends influences from China, France, and Southeast Asia, Hanoi’s cuisine is diverse, flavorful, and unforgettable. From street food stalls to high-end restaurants, there is no shortage of options to satisfy your appetite.

3.1. Pho

Pho is a must-try dish in Hanoi, especially the beef pho which comes with either cooked beef or rare beef. Cooked beef is boiled in broth, while rare beef is sliced thinly and quickly blanched in hot water. Some recommended addresses for pho in Hanoi include Pho Thin, Bat Dan, Tu Lun, Pho Lam, and Pho Tram.

>>> Explore: Hanoi cuisine 2024: TOP 12 flavorful dishes to include in your food tour

3.2. Hanoi chicken noodle (Bun thang)

Hanoi chicken noodle (Bun thang) is a specialty of Hanoi that has been passed down through generations. The dish features thin rice noodles in a clear broth, with shredded chicken, thinly sliced egg, pork sausage, and other toppings such as dried shrimp, fried shallots, and fresh herbs.

This is a popular breakfast dish in Hanoi and can be found in many street stalls and local restaurants. Some recommended places to try bun thang in Hanoi are Bun Thang Ba Duc, Bun Thang Cao Duc, and Bun Thang Thuan Ly.

3.3. Bun cha

Bun cha consists of grilled pork patties and slices of pork belly, served in a bowl of broth with rice vermicelli, fresh herbs, and dipping sauce. The sauce is made from a combination of fish sauce, vinegar, sugar, and water, which gives it a sweet and sour taste. 

Some recommended places to try bun cha in Hanoi include Bun Cha Huong Lien (where former U.S President Barack Obama famously dined), Bun Cha Dac Kim, and Bun Cha Tuyet.

3.4. La Vong grilled fish

This dish is made by grilling marinated fish on a charcoal stove and serving it with vermicelli, herbs, and a special sauce made from fermented shrimp paste, sugar, lemon, and chili. There are many restaurants in Hanoi that serve La Vong grilled fish, such as Cha Ca Thang Long, Cha Ca Anh Vu, and Vua Cha Ca.

3.5. Egg coffee

Egg coffee is a coffee drink that is unique to Hanoi. The origin of egg coffee dates back to the 1940s, when milk was scarce in Vietnam and eggs were used as a substitute. Today, there are many cafes throughout Hanoi that serve egg coffee, with some of the most famous being Giang Cafe and Dinh Cafe.

>>> See more: Hanoi coffee shops: A selective list of instagrammable cafes to stop by

4. Some suggested itineraries for an exciting Hanoi trip

4.1. Hanoi itinerary 3 days

Day 1: 

• Visit Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and surrounding areas
• Explore Temple of Literature
• Enjoy a bowl of pho for lunch
• Stroll around Hoan Kiem Lake
• Listen to ca tru singing in the evening

Day 2:

• Take a day trip to Perfume Pagoda 
• Enjoy a countryside bike ride or boat ride
• Explore local villages and markets
• Have lunch at a local restaurant serving authentic Vietnamese cuisine
• Return to Hanoi city center for dinner and explore the Old Quarter

Day 3:

• Visit Thang Long Imperial Citadel
• Explore Vietnam Museum of Ethnology
• Have lunch at a local street food market
• Learn about traditional Vietnamese crafts at Fine Arts Museum
• Watch the sunset from Lotte Observation Deck
• Enjoy a dinner of grilled fish or bun cha

>>> Read more: What to do in Hanoi for 3 days: A perfect itinerary for first-timers

4.2. What to do in Hanoi for 4 days?

Day 1:

• Visit Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and Ho Chi Minh Museum
• Explore the Temple of Literature
• Walk around Hoan Kiem Lake and visit Ngoc Son Temple
• Try egg coffee at Cafe Giang or Cafe Dinh

Day 2:

• Take a day trip to Perfume Pagoda 
• Explore Thien Tru Pagoda
• Take a boat trip to Huong Tich Cave

Day 3:

• Visit Vietnam Museum of Ethnology
• Take a street food tour in Hanoi Old Quarter
• Explore Long Bien Bridge

Day 4: 

• Visit Hoa Lo Prison
• Enjoy a water puppet show

>>> Save now: Hanoi itinerary 4 days

With its unique blend of traditions and modernity, Hanoi has a timeless appeal that draws visitors from all over the world. Some key experiences to include in your Hanoi itinerary are trying the local street food, visiting the city’s museums, exploring Hanoi Old Quarter, and much more. Whatever your interests may be, Hanoi is surely a destination that will leave a lasting impression on your heart and mind.