The capital city of Vietnam, Hanoi, is a fascinating mix of old customs and new ideas. Hanoi is the political and administrative center of Vietnam. It is also the cultural and historical center of the country and has seen many changes over the ages.
There are plenty of things to see and do in the livable city of Hanoi. This 3-day Hanoi itinerary can be helpful if you’re visiting Vietnam’s capital city for the first time and need help figuring out what to do there. This three-day itinerary for Hanoi is the ideal guide to vacation planning. It will list the top activities and things to do in Hanoi over three days.
3-day Hanoi Itinerary: What to Do in Hanoi for 3 days?
Hanoi itinerary- day 1: Explore the Old Quarter
Daytime:
We will start our stay in Hanoi by visiting the Hanoi French Quarter, the first of our three days there. The French Quarter is located south of the famous Hoan Kiem Lake. However, it is not one of Hanoi’s most famous attractions, such as its Old Quarter. On the other hand, the French Quarter is representative of Hanoi’s charm and elegance.
There are several luxury restaurants and cafes in the area, as well as shopping malls and foreign embassies in the city. Aside from this, the area itself consists of several pieces of evidence from the French colonial period that are lively traces of the area’s history.
There are several places you must not miss while you are in Hanoi, including Saint Joseph’s Cathedral, Hoa Lo Prison, and Hanoi Opera House.
After touring Hanoi’s French Quarter, a one-hour Cyclo ride around the Old Quarter is a terrific way to relax and get a sense of local life.
Nighttime:
You can visit Ta Hien Beer Street, explore the Old Quarter of Hanoi, or enjoy yourself in nightclubs.
Hanoi itinerary – Day 2: A Day of Sightseeing
Daytime:
Ho Chi Minh Complex: One of the most popular things to do in Hanoi is to visit the Ho Chi Minh Complex. Ho Chi Minh was a major influence on Vietnam, winning the country’s independence, so, understandably, the people wanted to preserve him.
The entire complex is dedicated to him, and his body is housed in a huge mausoleum built in Russian-style architecture. The surrounding grounds are beautifully maintained, with gardens and a tea shop, and are quite peaceful to relax in.
Visitors to the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum were generally allowed to enter during the mornings from Tuesday to Thursday and on weekends. It’s only open early from 07:30 – 10:30, so visit first thing.
Thăng Long Imperial Citadel: The 11th-century imperial citadel complex is well worth exploring. Several buildings, museums, and artifacts can be found there, as well as some old underground bunkers that are well preserved. It is a wonderful place to learn about the history of Hanoi.
The Temple Of Literature: The Temple of Literature is not a temple, as its name might suggest, but rather a university. It was the first university to be established in Vietnam. You can enjoy strolling around its beautiful gardens, walkways, temples, and memorials in this serene and peaceful site. The entrance fee is just 30,000 VND (1.30 USD).
Night time: Train Street
It is a narrow residential street in the Old Quarter of Hanoi where trains pass very close to the houses. Visitors can witness locals’ daily lives and trains passing through densely populated areas in this unique and somewhat popular spot. Cafes along the train street were popular spots for tourists to watch passing trains.
Hanoi itinerary – Day 3: Take a Trip to Halong Bay
You can see the best of Hanoi in two full days. On your third day, I think you should take a day trip. From Hanoi, Ha Long Bay is the best place for a day trip. It’s one of the most beautiful places in Vietnam and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Here are some things you must do and see:
Explore magnificent caves, such as Sung Sot (Surprise) Cave, Dau Go Cave, Trinh Nu (Virgin) Cave, Thien Cung Cave,…
Visit fishing villages: Cong Dam Village, Cua Van Village, Ba Hang Village.
What to See in Hanoi in 3 days?
Hoan Kiem Lake
Hoan Kiem Lake, commonly known as the “Lake of the Returned Sword,” is a calm sanctuary in the city. Mornings by the lake are peaceful, with locals playing tai chi and running by the water. Symbolizing the repaired sword, the Turtle Tower on a little island adds mystique.
Ngoc Son Temple
The bright red Huc Bridge reaches Ngoc Son Temple on Jade Island. The temple to national heroes showcases Vietnam’s spiritual and historical legacy. Visitors join a story that weaves old legends into the present as they explore its complexities.
The Old Quarter
Going inside the Old Quarter is like stepping back in time. Narrow streets traverse this maze-like neighborhood, each specializing in a specific trade. Hang Bac for silverware, Hang Ma for paper products, and Hang Gai for silk and textiles—the streets echo centuries of business.
The Old Quarter is more than just a retail destination; it’s a live, breathing entity that combines the past and modern. Colonial architecture coexists with modern boutiques, while street sellers combine scents and sounds. It’s a sensory trip across time, highlighting Vietnam’s tenacity and adaptability.
Thang Long Water Puppet Theater
The Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre encourages guests to experience a traditional art form as the day continues. Water puppetry, with its vibrant colors and powerful storytelling, embodies the spirit of Vietnamese culture. The experience connects the historical charm of the Old Quarter with Hanoi’s current cultural scene.
Ta Hien Street
Ta Hien Street is known for Hanoi’s beer culture. As the sun sets, the street comes alive, with diners clinking glasses and talking. The cobblestone street has many taverns and pubs serving local and international beers. Bia Hoi, a refreshing draft beer that embodies community enjoyment, is the star of this beer fiesta.
Being a mixing pot of cultures makes Tạ Hiện Street extremely unique. International travelers share stories, fun, and a passion for exploring here. Locals and backpackers meet on the street, providing an inclusive and culturally diverse environment. Beyond linguistic limitations, conversations flow and friendships are formed over common experiences.
Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and Complex
The Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and Complex is in the middle of Hanoi, Vietnam. It is a somber reminder of the revolutionary spirit that made the country what it is today. You will learn about the life of Vietnam’s renowned leader, Ho Chi Minh, as you walk through the holy grounds on this tour.
Start your day by visiting the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, which is a huge building that deserves respect and admiration. The tomb is a place of great respect for the Vietnamese people, so be sure to follow the rules about what to wear.
As you approach the door, join the orderly line of guests. As the expectation grows, it sets the mood for the solemn experience that lies inside. You can pay your respects to Ho Chi Minh by entering the tomb, where his body is lying. The inside is peaceful and quiet, making it easy for visitors to connect with the country’s past.
Your tour of the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and Complex deepens your understanding of Vietnamese history during the morning. After leaving the mausoleum, you enter Ba Dinh Square, where Ho Chi Minh’s independence declaration resonates. Governmental structures and political influence on either side of the square represent how the country has changed.
The Presidential Palace, next to the square, silently watches the country change. French colonial architecture, with massive arches and austere facades, exudes power. The inside is closed to tourists, but the well-kept gardens provide a peaceful place to reflect on Ho Chi Minh’s political journey.
A short walk from the Presidential Palace is the Stilt House, a little house among thick foliage. Ho Chi Minh picked this humble home over the Presidential Palace to emphasize its simplicity and accessibility. In contrast, the Stilt House reveals the leader’s principles and lifestyle.
Further research leads to the complex’s crown treasure, the One Pillar Pagoda. A lotus flower blooming from the river influenced the pagoda’s design, adding spiritual elegance to the surroundings. Wandering through the pagoda and its tranquil grounds immerses you in Vietnamese Buddhism, a spiritual thread woven into the nation’s past.
Temple of Literature
The Temple of Literature in Hanoi, Vietnam, represents the nation’s dedication to education. This university, founded in 1070, is Vietnam’s first national university and a Confucian beacon. The Temple of Literature, as a center of study and academic genius, helped shape Vietnam’s intellectual history. The Courtyard of Stelae is decorated with stone turtles holding the names of prominent academics, which represent wisdom. This respected monument offers cultural festivals and draws students looking for academic success. The Temple of Literature serves as a symbol of Vietnam’s intellectual and cultural history as well as education.
Hoa Lo Prison
The next destination you should visit is Hoa Lo Prison. Hoa Lo Prison, also known as the “Hanoi Hilton,” is a dark piece of history in the middle of Hanoi, Vietnam.
French colonialists built it in the late 1800s, and it became famous during the Vietnam War when it was used to hold American prisoners of war. With its dirty cells and reminders of a painful past, the jail gives a chilling look into the terrible conditions that both Vietnamese revolutionaries and American prisoners had to live in.
Even though it has a dark past, the site is now a museum that shows how hard it was for the people who were locked up there and gives a somber look back at Vietnam’s long fight for freedom. The haunting images of Hoa Lo Prison are a powerful reminder of how strong the Vietnamese people are and how the terrible events that happened there will never be forgotten.
Train Street and Dong Xuan Night Market
Two distinct areas in Hanoi, Vietnam, attract visitors with their vibrant energy and cultural significance. Train Street is in the heart of the Old Quarter and offers a unique experience because trains travel through little residential streets, allowing you to see how locals live their daily lives. The combination of residences, stores, and the constant sound of passing trains creates a dynamic and intriguing atmosphere.
As the day fades into night, the Dong Xuan Night Market emerges as a bustling shopping and business hub. It sells everything from traditional crafts and clothing to delicious street cuisine. Dong Xuan Night Market is a mix of flavors, colors, and cultural highlights. It is a must-see for everyone looking to experience authentic Hanoi.
Quang Ba Night Flower Market
Quang Ba Flower Market is situated in the Tay Ho District of Hanoi, near West Lake. The market is known for starting its operations very early in the morning, often before sunrise. It’s not only a place for buying and selling but also a lively and dynamic space reflecting the beauty of Vietnam’s floral culture.
Other Things to Do in Hanoi in 3 days
With the suggestions I just gave, if you feel you don’t like or are not suitable for yourself, please refer to these activities.
Taking a cooking class
You can get into Vietnamese culture and learn how to make tasty local foods by taking a cooking class in Hanoi. Here are some well-known Hanoi food classes:
Hanoi Cooking Center: This cooking class is in the Old Quarter and has many classes, such as traditional cooking lessons and tours of street food. In most classes, students go to a nearby store to buy the food they need and then cook the food themselves.
Apron Up Cooking Class: Apron Up lets you cook with a professional chef and connect with them. There are a lot of different Vietnamese foods taught in the classes, and at the end of the session, everyone gets to eat what they’ve made.
Vietnamese cooking class in Hanoi by Mrs. Van: This class is led by Mrs. Van, a friendly and experienced local chef, and it’s a small-group cooking experience. A market tour is often part of Mrs. Van’s classes, and students can pick from a menu of possibilities.
Exploring Bat Trang: A Ceramic Village Adventure
Bat Trang Pottery Village is one of the numerous villages on the outskirts of Hanoi, Vietnam, that have a centuries-long heritage of producing handicrafts.
Bat Trang Pottery Village is located on the banks of the Red River in Hanoi’s Gia Lam District. The town is approximately 14 kilometers from Hanoi’s city center, so you can reach there by either private or public transportation.
If you choose to go to Bat Trang, here are the top things you need to do in Bat Trang
Visit Ceramic Workshops
Explore the traditional ceramic shops that line Bat Trang’s small streets. See artists at work as they shape, form, and glaze clay to make beautiful pottery.
Hands-On Pottery Experience
Do something hands-on with clay. Craft classes let people try making their ceramic items with the help of skilled teachers in many places.
Visit Ancient Kilns
Explore the old kilns that have been heating Bat Trang’s pottery for hundreds of years. With their long, twisting shapes, these one-of-a-kind dragon kilns are a reminder of the village’s rich history.
Enjoy the local Cuisine
At the end of your trip, try some local food. Many restaurants in Bat Trang serve delicious Vietnamese food that lets you enjoy the tastes of northern Vietnam.
Visiting Ba Vi National Park
Ba Vi National Park is a peaceful place to escape to nature. It is located about 48 kilometers west of Hanoi. The park is a peaceful place to get away from the busy city life. It has beautiful scenery and a variety of ecosystems.
You can hike or take a cable car to get to the top of Ba Vi Mountain, which is one of the best parts of the trip. From there, you can see a wide view of the rolling hills and the beautiful scenery of the farmland.
When you visit the Thien Son -Suoi Nga wildlife area in the park, you’ll see beautiful hills and streams. Also, cultural gems like the Ba Vi Church and the Doi Cheo Ancient Tea House make the experience more historical and traditional.
Ba Vi National Park is only a short drive from Hanoi. It offers a perfect mix of natural beauty and cultural exploration, whether you choose to walk along the nature trails, stay at Ba Vi Resort, or just enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.
What to Eat in Hanoi for 3 days?
The cuisine of Hanoi is a delicious combination of flavors, combining traditional Vietnamese ingredients with influences from a variety of places and cultures into a single dish. Whether you choose to dine at a local eatery or explore the street food booths in the Old Quarter, Hanoi provides a gastronomic adventure that caters to a wide variety of preferences and interests.
Pho (Hanoi Pho)
Pho is a Vietnamese noodle soup made with broth, rice noodles, and meat, usually beef or chicken. It is considered a national gem. People in Hanoi often eat Pho for breakfast, and they are proud of how different the flavors are from one area to the next.
The best Pho in Hanoi can be found at: Pho Bat Dan (49 Bat Dan Street), Pho Ly Quoc Su (10 Ly Quoc Su Street), Pho Thin (13 Lo Duc Street).
Bun Cha
Bun Cha is a dish from Hanoi that is made with grilled pork patties, vermicelli noodles, herbs, and fresh veggies. It is served with a bowl of dipping sauce. This dish shows what Hanoi’s street food culture is all about.
The best Bun Cha can be found at Bun Cha Huong Lien (24 Le Van Huu Street) or Bun Cha Obama (30 Le Van Huu Street).
Banh mi
Banh Mi is a Vietnamese sandwich made with a crispy baguette filled with different kinds of food, like pate, cold cuts, herbs, and pickled veggies. It comes from the time when Vietnam was a French colony. Hanoi’s Banh Mi often has a spin that is only found there.
Cha Ca La Vong
Cha Ca is a well-known food in Hanoi. It is a salty dish made of grilled fish, usually catfish, that is spiced with turmeric and dill. It comes with ground rice, peanuts, herbs, and a sauce for dipping.
Come to Cha Ca Thang Long – 87 Tho Nhuom Street to taste the best Cha Ca.
Bun Thang
Bun Thang is a sweet noodle soup that is popular in Hanoi and is often eaten during Tet, which is the Vietnamese New Year. It has thin rice noodles, chopped chicken, pork, omelet strips, and a broth that smells great.
Egg Coffee
Egg Coffee is a special drink from Hanoi that is made with strong Vietnamese coffee, condensed milk, and a creamy egg yolk topping. It tastes great because it has both sweet and bitter tastes.
Located at 39 Nguyen Huu Huan Street – the birthplace of egg coffee – Giang Coffee serves the best egg coffee.
Bun Bo Nam Bo
Bun Bo Nam Bo is a southern-style food that became popular in Hanoi. It is made of beef noodles, bean sprouts, peanuts, and herbs that are stir-fried together. It’s known for being simple and having bright tastes.
Nem ran ( Fried Spring roll)
Nem Ran is a favorite starter dish in Hanoi. It is crispy and tastes great. It is made with ground pork, noodles, mushrooms, and other things that are wrapped in rice paper and fried until golden brown.
Banh Cuon
Pan-steamed rice rolls with ground pork and wood ear mushrooms are called Banh Cuon. This food is often served for breakfast and is both light and tasty. There is dipping sauce on the side.
Read more: Hanoi Highlights & Hidden Gems By Vietnam Army Legend Jeep
How to Get Around Hanoi?
Getting around Hanoi is pretty simple, and the city has a lot of different ways to get around to see its busy streets and interesting areas. This is how most people get around Hanoi:
Walking
The Old Quarter of Hanoi and many of its famous attractions are small and easy to get around on foot. You can get lost in the city’s busy streets, explore its narrow alleys, and find secret gems by walking.
Cyclos
Cyclos are cycle rickshaws with three wheels. In touristy places, you can use these old-fashioned ways to get around.
Taxi
There are a lot of taxis in Hanoi, and they make getting around the city easy. Pick cab companies with a good reputation, and make sure the meter is on or that you agree on a price before the ride.
Xe Om – Motorbike Taxi
Taxis on motorbikes are a popular and quick way to get around town. You can hire Xe Om drivers on street corners or through apps like Grab that let you call a taxi.
Bike riding
More and more people are riding bikes in Hanoi, so you can see the city at your own pace. There are bike lanes in many places, and you can rent bikes as well.
Taxis and buses
Hanoi has a large public bus system that goes on many trips around the city. Vietnamese signs at bus stops show you the way, so planning your trip ahead of time is a good idea.
E-Bus
Electric buses run on certain lines in Hanoi, making them an eco-friendly way to get around the city. It’s very easy to use these buses to get from the Old Quarter to popular tourist spots.
Renting a motorbike or scooter
Renting a scooter or motorcycle is a popular choice for people who are used to riding motorcycles. But be aware of the traffic and how people drive in your area.
Hiring a private car
For a more relaxed and personalized experience, you can rent a private car with a driver. This choice is good for day trips or getting to know places outside of the city.
Be careful every time you cross the street, and pay attention to the traffic, especially if you’re riding a motorbike or scooter. There are pros and cons to each way of getting around Hanoi, so choose your method of transportation based on your personal preferences, the distance you want to travel, and the time of day.
Read more: Hanoi Food Tour With Train Street Visit
Vietnam Tour 247 – Providing Reputable Hanoi Tours
What is Vietnam Tour 247? Vietnam Tour 247 specializes in private tours and multi-day tours in Vietnam, Laos, Cambodia, Thailand, Bali, and Cambodia. As a member of the Allure Vietnam Travel Group, they provide their customers with high-quality and personalized travel experiences.
There are many popular destinations and attractions in Vietnam and Southeast Asia that they offer as part of our Vietnam tour packages. It doesn’t matter what your interests are, from exploring the vibrant cities to the scenic countryside to the rich culture or even taking a trip to the natural wonders, there are things to do here for everyone. They offer various tours based on your preferences, budget, and schedule to meet your needs. The itineraries that they offer can be customized to meet your specific needs, or you can choose from their ready-made itineraries.
There are daily departures for every one of their tours, so you can book with confidence and flexibility knowing that every tour will leave on time. They also ensure that the support and service you receive throughout your vacation will be of the highest quality by their team of passionate, enthusiastic, trained, and experienced people.
Aside from being friendly, knowledgeable, and experienced, the tour guides are also professional. It is their priority to make sure that their drivers are always punctual, safe, reliable, and courteous. Accommodation at their hotel is carefully selected, ensuring the best location, cleanliness, and service as well as the best value for your money.
If you plan to visit Hanoi shortly and do not have experience in Hanoi, please refer to tours at Vietnam tour 247. They offer diverse tours with reasonable prices and schedules like Authentic Northern Vietnam, Charming Northern Vietnam, and Classic Northern Vietnam.
I’ve seen some positive reviews from customers who have used their services. A customer called Kevin Dn left a comment on GG Map: “ “I love Vietnam Tour 247. Choosing Vietnam Tour 247 was the best decision we made. David took care of every detail, going so far as to remind us each evening about our pickup time for the following day. Everything went flawlessly – our pickups, drop-offs, internal flights, and more. David even came to my rescue at the airport, calling me to return to the baggage check-in when I accidentally packed a battery pack that had to be removed; otherwise, I wouldn’t have been able to retrieve my luggage.”
Another customer: “ We would like to extend our appreciation to Jenny, our contact person at Vietnam Tour 247. Her dedication and attention to detail made our tour even more enjoyable. We commend Vietnam Tour 247 for its exceptional service and organization. Thank you, Vietnam Tour 247, for providing us with a memorable and well-executed tour of Vietnam.”
Hence, Vietnam Tour 247 will be a great choice for making your trip to Hanoi enjoyable and memorable.
FAQs
1. Is 3 days in Hanoi enough?
I think two to three days in Hanoi are enough. You will need to add an extra day if you want to go to Halong Bay from Hanoi.
2. When is the bad time to visit Hanoi?
Anytime is a good time to go to Hanoi. But keep in mind that the winter months can be downright sad. Also, if you don’t like hot weather, don’t go from June to August.
3. Is nighttime walking in Hanoi safe?
Nighttime in Hanoi is usually safe for walking on the streets. After ten o’clock at night, the Old Quarter stays bustling but the city settles down and gets much calmer.
4. Should I tip in Vietnam?
You don’t have to tip anywhere in Vietnam because it’s not part of the lifestyle. In nicer places, there will be a service charge. Tour guides and people who work in Western-style hotels are more used to getting tips.
In Conclusion
After three days of exploring Hanoi, we can confidently state that our trip was an exciting journey that combined history, culture, and natural beauty. Every day provided discoveries and unforgettable experiences, from the hectic allure of the Old Quarter to the tranquil scenery of Halong Bay. It was a fantastic journey, full of surprises and discoveries. We bid farewell to this dynamic city, carrying with us the echoes of its fabled past, the tastes of its food, and the warmth and friendliness of its people. Whether it’s a small yet diversified city, Hanoi has made an indelible impression on us, instilling a desire to return and fully explore its depths.
As I mentioned in my 3-day Hanoi itinerary above, I hope that sharing my itinerary will be helpful for you to plan your trip to Hanoi in great detail.
