Ultimate 3-Day Hanoi Itinerary: Best Things to Do & See
Hanoi is a captivating blend of ancient temples, vibrant street life, and French colonial charm set amid scenic lakes and leafy boulevards.
Day 1: Hanoi's Historic Heart & Old Quarter
Morning
Begin your Hanoi adventure at the Hoan Kiem Lake, the city's spiritual and geographical heart, where locals practice tai chi and the iconic red Huc Bridge leads to Ngoc Son Temple.
Hoan Kiem Lake
Stroll north into the Old Quarter, a maze of bustling streets filled with centuries-old shophouses, local markets, and quintessential Hanoi street food stalls.
Old Quarter
Afternoon
Discover Vietnam's unique water puppetry at the Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre, a must-see for its traditional music and artistry performed over water.
Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre
Evening
For an authentic dinner, savor Hanoi's best bun cha at Bun Cha Huong Lien, made famous by President Obama’s visit and beloved for its grilled pork and noodles.
Bun Cha Huong Lien
Day 2: Cultural Icons & Hidden Cafés
Morning
Visit the solemn Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum to pay respects to Vietnam’s revered leader and stroll the scenic Ba Dinh Square.
Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum
Just behind, explore the peaceful One Pillar Pagoda, a unique Buddhist temple rising from a single stone pillar over a lotus pond.
One Pillar Pagoda
Afternoon
Step back in time at the Temple of Literature, Vietnam’s first university and a tranquil sanctuary dedicated to Confucius and scholars.
Temple of Literature
Recharge at Cafe Giang, home of Hanoi’s legendary egg coffee—a creamy, strong, and sweet local specialty served in a cozy, hidden alley location.
Cafe Giang
Evening
Experience a true local favorite with dinner at Cha Ca La Vong, serving their signature turmeric-marinated, sizzling fish dish for over a century.
Cha Ca La Vong
Day 3: Lakes, Local Arts & French Quarter
Morning
Start your day at the serene West Lake, Hanoi’s largest lake, where you can enjoy lakeside walks, photogenic views, and peaceful pagodas.
West Lake
Nearby, admire the beautiful Tran Quoc Pagoda, Hanoi’s oldest Buddhist temple, gracefully set on a small island in West Lake.
Tran Quoc Pagoda
Afternoon
Explore Vietnamese contemporary art at the Vietnam Fine Arts Museum, home to an inspiring collection of traditional and modern masterpieces.
Vietnam Fine Arts Museum
Evening
End your trip with dinner at the elegant La Verticale, a French-Vietnamese fusion restaurant set in a colonial villa, known for creative tasting menus and rooftop views of the city.
La Verticale
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