As I step out onto the bustling streets of Hanoi, I’m hit with the city’s vibrant energy. The streets are alive with the smell of street food and the sights of local life. It’s a place that grabs your senses and makes you want to explore every corner.
I have just a few days to really get to know Hanoi, but I’m excited for the challenge. This 4-day Hanoi itinerary will take me to the city’s best spots, cultural hotspots, and delicious food. It’s the perfect way to experience what makes Hanoi special.
Key Takeaways
- Discover Hanoi’s vibrant energy and captivating cultural tapestry in just 4 days
- Explore the city’s top attractions, from the bustling Old Quarter to the unique Train Street
- Immerse yourself in Hanoi’s rich culinary scene, savoring delicious street food and participating in a hands-on cooking class
- Venture beyond the city limits for a day trip to the stunning Ninh Binh and Trang An Scenic Landscape
- Uncover the must-see places and top experiences that make Hanoi a captivating destination for travelers
Arriving in Hanoi
Many travelers will arrive at the Noi Bai International Airport, about a 40-minute drive from the Old Quarter. This area is full of tourist spots and places to stay. If Hanoi is your first stop in Vietnam, most visitors need a visa. Apply for it online at least 8 business days before your trip.
Visa Requirements
Visitors from most countries need a visa to enter Vietnam. Apply for it online at least 8 business days before your trip. When you arrive, bring your official approval letter, two passport photos, and $25 USD for the visa fee.
Sapa 1 Day Tours
- 1 day experience
- Moderate to challenging
- Cultural immersion & active adventure
- Rice fields, valleys & villages
- Private tours
- Vegan-friendly
Sapa 2 Day Tours
- 2 days 1 night experience
- Moderate to challenging
- Cultural immersion & active adventure
- Mountains, valleys, rice fields and villages
- Private tours
- Vegan-friendly
Sapa 3 Day Tours
- 3 days 2 night experience
- Moderate to challenging
- Cultural immersion & active adventure
- Mountains, valley, rice fields & villages
- Private tours
- Vegan-friendly
Sapa 4 Day Tours
- 4 days 3 night experience
- Moderate to challenging
- Cultural immersion & active adventure
- Mountains, valleys, rice fields & villages
- Private tours – Less Touristic
- Vegan-friendly
Transportation Options
After arriving in Hanoi, the Grab rideshare app is a great choice for getting around. Or, take the Hanoi Airport Shuttle or bus #86 to the Old Quarter. These options are affordable. Public transport in Hanoi is good, but the Old Quarter has limited options.
| Transportation Option | Cost | Convenience |
|---|---|---|
| Grab Rideshare App | Affordable | Convenient |
| Hanoi Airport Shuttle | Budget-friendly | Direct to Old Quarter |
| Bus #86 | Inexpensive | Reaches various parts of the city |
“Hanoi is a vibrant city that offers visitors a unique blend of history, culture, and modern amenities. From navigating the visa process to exploring the city’s transportation options, it’s important to plan ahead to make the most of your time in the capital of Vietnam.”
Where to Stay in Hanoi
Hanoi, the bustling capital of Vietnam, has many places to stay for every traveler. You can choose from the city’s vibrant center or quieter areas. Hanoi has something for everyone.
Hanoi Old Quarter
The Hanoi Old Quarter, also known as Hoan Kiem, is full of narrow streets and French colonial architecture. It’s perfect for those wanting to dive into Hanoi’s culture, enjoy cheap beers and pho, and feel the city’s energy. You can find everything from budget hostels to mid-range hotels here.
Ba Dinh District
If you prefer a quieter stay, check out the Ba Dinh District. It’s the political heart of Vietnam and home to famous spots like the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum. Here, you’ll find mid-range places to stay that offer a break from the busy Old Quarter but are still close to Hanoi’s main attractions and food scenes.
| Neighborhood | Accommodation Range | Atmosphere |
|---|---|---|
| Hanoi Old Quarter | Budget-friendly hostels to mid-range hotels | Vibrant, lively, and immersive in Hanoi’s culture |
| Ba Dinh District | Mid-range accommodations | Quieter and more laid-back, yet still close to top attractions |
No matter where you stay, Hanoi is full of history, culture, and delicious food. Choosing the right place to stay sets the stage for an amazing trip in this enchanting city.
Day 1: Exploring the Old Quarter
Start your day in Hanoi with a strong Vietnamese coffee. Watch the scooters zip by from tiny plastic stools. Try the coconut coffee from Cộng Cà Phê for something different. But beware, street vendors might ask for money later.
Train Street
Walk to Train Street for half an hour. This narrow alley has train tracks right in the middle. When a train comes, everyone moves fast to get out of the way.
The cafes here are perfect for watching people and having a Choo Choo beer. They serve it from The Railway Hanoi.
Dong Xuan Market
Don’t miss Dong Xuan Market, the biggest indoor market in Hanoi. It has four floors full of goods. You’ll find everything from fresh produce to knock-off sunglasses and fabric.
| Item | Price Range | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Fresh Produce | $0.50 – $2 per item | Wide variety of locally grown fruits and vegetables |
| Handicrafts | $5 – $20 per item | Handmade items like pottery, wood carvings, and embroidered textiles |
| Clothing | $3 – $15 per item | Affordable clothing, including both local and knockoff brands |
What to do in Hanoi 4 days
Hanoi is more than just the Old Quarter. It’s full of iconic spots that show off the city’s history and culture. Make sure to visit these places during your 4-day trip.
Iconic Attractions
Begin by seeing the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, a key monument to Vietnam’s leader. Then, check out the One Pillar Pagoda, a temple on one pillar in a lotus pond. Don’t miss the West Lake and Tran Quoc Pagoda, one of Vietnam’s oldest temples.
Cultural Experiences
Experience Hanoi’s culture by watching a traditional water puppet show. This show tells stories from Vietnamese folklore through puppets on water. Also, walk through the Old Quarter to see artisans and traditional crafts.
Local Cuisine
Trying Hanoi’s street food is a must. Enjoy dishes like pho, banh mi, and bia hoi. In the Old Quarter, you’ll find many street food stalls and places to eat and drink.
| Iconic Attractions | Cultural Experiences | Local Cuisine |
|---|---|---|
| Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum | Water Puppet Show | Pho (Vietnamese Noodle Soup) |
| One Pillar Pagoda | Old Quarter Exploration | Banh Mi (Vietnamese Sandwiches) |
| West Lake and Tran Quoc Pagoda | – | Bia Hoi (Fresh, Locally Brewed Beer) |
With these attractions, activities, and foods, your 4-day trip to Hanoi will be unforgettable. Dive into the city’s heritage and feel its lively spirit.
Day 2: Cooking Class and Street Food Tour
Start your day by learning about Vietnamese cuisine in a hands-on cooking class. Visit a local market first to pick out fresh ingredients for your dishes. Then, an expert will show you how to make signature Vietnamese dishes step by step.
Hands-on Cooking Experience
With a skilled instructor watching over you, you’ll learn traditional Vietnamese cooking methods. You’ll make dishes like pho, spring rolls, and banh mi. This lets you understand the flavors that make Vietnamese food so popular.
After cooking, enjoy the meal you made with others who love cooking. This is a great way to appreciate Vietnamese cuisine more.
Exploring Hanoi’s Street Food Scene
Later, go on a street food tour in Hanoi’s Old Quarter. Try foods like steamed rice rolls, pho, and grilled pork. Enjoy the busy streets around you.
Stop at small places and family-run stalls to really get into Hanoi’s street food. End your food journey with egg coffee at Ta Hien Beer Street or Cafe Giang. This coffee is a special treat in the city.
Day 3: Bat Trang Ceramic Village and Night Markets
Escape the hustle and bustle of Hanoi for a half-day trip to the nearby Bat Trang Ceramic Village. Explore the tranquil countryside and see artisans making famous ceramic products. You can even make your own souvenir in a pottery workshop.
Bat Trang Ceramic Village
Nestled just outside the city, Bat Trang Ceramic Village is a captivating destination. It offers a glimpse into Vietnam’s rich ceramic heritage. Wander through the quaint streets, admire the pottery, and watch artisans at work.
Join a hands-on pottery workshop to learn about the craftsmanship and techniques. This tradition is both beautiful and ancient.
Hanoi Night Markets
After returning to the city, spend the evening at Hanoi’s vibrant night markets. The Old Quarter Night Market, Long Bien Night Market, and Quang Ba Flower Market are great choices. They offer a lively atmosphere, unique shopping, and a peek into the local nightlife.
Immerse yourself in the bustling energy, browse the eclectic stalls, and try the delicious street food.
| Night Market | Highlights |
|---|---|
| Old Quarter Night Market | Bustling atmosphere, diverse range of goods, local food stalls |
| Long Bien Night Market | Wholesale market, affordable prices, unique handicrafts |
| Quang Ba Flower Market | Vibrant flower displays, fragrant aromas, lively energy |
Whether you’re looking for unique souvenirs, tasty street food, or a peek into Hanoi’s nightlife, these markets will captivate and delight you.
Day 4: Day Trip from Hanoi
As your time in Hanoi ends, think about a day trip to see the beautiful nature outside the city. You can choose between Ninh Binh province and Halong Bay for a day you won’t forget.
Ninh Binh and Trang An Scenic Landscape
Ninh Binh is a 2-hour drive south of Hanoi and shows off Vietnam’s stunning limestone karst landscapes. Visit the Trang An Scenic Landscape Complex, a UNESCO site, and go on a boat cruise. You’ll see amazing views and ancient temples and pagodas hidden in cliffs.
Halong Bay Cruise
Or, spend the day at Halong Bay, a UNESCO site 2 hours from Hanoi. Get on a traditional junk boat and sail among limestone islands. You’ll see caves, coves, and floating villages. This trip lets you experience one of Vietnam’s most famous natural wonders.
| Destination | Distance from Hanoi | Key Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Ninh Binh | 2 hours | Trang An Scenic Landscape Complex, ancient temples and pagodas |
| Halong Bay | 2 hours | Limestone islands, caves, coves, floating fishing villages |
Either day trip will take you to stunning places beyond Hanoi’s city life. You’ll get to see the beautiful landscapes that make Vietnam a top travel spot.
Top Hanoi Experiences
Hanoi has more than what’s listed in this 4-day plan. It’s full of amazing experiences for visitors. You can explore the country’s rich culture and history. There are many ways to enjoy your time in this beautiful city.
Don’t miss the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology. It’s a place where you can learn about Vietnam’s 54 ethnic groups. You’ll see interactive exhibits that show the country’s amazing diversity.
For a real cultural experience, watch a ca tru music show at a historic Vietnamese house. This music is special and recognized by UNESCO. It’s a peek into Vietnam’s musical past.
| Attraction | Highlights |
|---|---|
| The French Quarter | Explore the charming colonial architecture and soak up the vibrant atmosphere of this historic district. |
| Hoa Lo Prison (Hanoi Hilton) | Visit this infamous prison, which provides insight into Hanoi’s wartime history and the experiences of American prisoners of war. |
Whether you like cultural experiences, historical tours, or just enjoying the city’s vibe, Hanoi has it all. You’ll find many ways to make memories in this lively city.
Tips for Visiting Hanoi
When you visit Hanoi, get ready for a city full of life and culture. Be careful with street vendors offering “free samples” that might lead to sales you don’t want. Download the Google Translate app to help with language barriers before you go.
Wear warm clothes, as Hanoi gets chilly, especially in winter. Be ready for unpredictable traffic and public transport. Walking is a great way to see Hanoi’s sights and sounds.
Don’t miss trying the famous egg coffee and bia hoi, a cheap and tasty draft beer. Enjoy these in the lively night markets. Take your time to enjoy the food and talk with the locals as you explore Hanoi’s culture and history.
- Be prepared for the city’s frenetic pace
- Beware of street vendors offering “free samples”
- Download the Google Translate app to overcome language barriers
- Dress warmly, as Hanoi can be chilly, especially in winter
- Be flexible with your schedule due to unpredictable traffic and transportation
- Try the local specialties, such as egg coffee and bia hoi
- Immerse yourself in Hanoi’s vibrant culture and history
Keep these tips in mind for a memorable trip to Hanoi. Whether you’re in the Old Quarter, eating local food, or visiting attractions, Hanoi will impress you.
Conclusion
Hanoi is a city full of ancient history, rich culture, and modern vibes. This 4-day guide lets you see famous landmarks, try delicious food, and feel the city’s unique charm. It’s perfect for those who love adventure, cultural experiences, or just relaxing.
From the lively Old Quarter to the peaceful Trang An Scenic Landscape, this trip takes you on a deep dive into Hanoi’s best spots. You’ll enjoy authentic street food and learn about ceramic making. This plan is made to fully take you into the heart of the city.
When planning your trip to Hanoi, dive into its rich culture, taste its amazing food, and meet its friendly people. With this guide, you’re set to make memories that will stay with you forever. So, get your bags ready and start an amazing journey in the enchanting city of Hanoi.
Sapa 1 Day Tours
- 1 day experience
- Moderate to challenging
- Cultural immersion & active adventure
- Rice fields, valleys & villages
- Private tours
- Vegan-friendly
Sapa 2 Day Tours
- 2 days 1 night experience
- Moderate to challenging
- Cultural immersion & active adventure
- Mountains, valleys, rice fields and villages
- Private tours
- Vegan-friendly
Sapa 3 Day Tours
- 3 days 2 night experience
- Moderate to challenging
- Cultural immersion & active adventure
- Mountains, valley, rice fields & villages
- Private tours
- Vegan-friendly
Sapa 4 Day Tours
- 4 days 3 night experience
- Moderate to challenging
- Cultural immersion & active adventure
- Mountains, valleys, rice fields & villages
- Private tours – Less Touristic
- Vegan-friendly
