Solo 3-Day Local Experience in Hanoi: Shopping, Food, Wine, and Sightseeing
Hanoi, Vietnam
3 days
About Hanoi, Vietnam
Discover the enchanting city of Hanoi, the cultural heart of Vietnam. This bustling metropolis offers a blend of old-world charm and modern development. Explore the Old Quarter's narrow streets, filled with craft shops, boutiques, and divine street food. Visit the serene Temple of Literature, dedicated to Confucius, and Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, a significant historical site. Enjoy a peaceful stroll around Hoan Kiem Lake, the city's spiritual and geographical heart. Don't miss the traditional water puppet show, a unique Vietnamese art form. Hanoi also serves as a gateway to the stunning Halong Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage site. With its rich history, vibrant nightlife, and warm locals, Hanoi promises an unforgettable travel experience.
3-Day Itinerary
Day 2
Historical Attractions and Night Market Adventure
Morning
Start your second day with a visit to Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, an important historical attraction of Hanoi, known for honoring the national hero: President Ho Chi Minh.
Lunch
Have lunch at a local restaurant and try Cha Ca, a delightful specialty of Hanoi that you should never miss out on.
Afternoon
Spend your afternoon at the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology. This museum offers an insight into the 54 different ethnic groups of Vietnam.
Dinner
For dinner, enjoy Banh Mi, a Vietnamese sandwich that's gaining popularity around the world for its tasty and balanced combination of ingredients.
Evening
Spend your evening at the Night Market. The market is a bustling hub of activity, with vendors selling everything from clothes to food, and is a great place to pick up some souvenirs.
Day 3
Historical Sites and Relaxing at West Lake
Morning
On your last day, visit the Imperial Citadel of Thang Long, an intriguing relic of Vietnam’s history and, signifying its historical and cultural importance.
Lunch
For lunch, try Banh Cuon, a type of large, thin, steamed rice pancake filled with a mixture of cooked seasoned ground pork, minced wood ear mushroom, and minced shallots.
Afternoon
Spend your afternoon at West Lake, the biggest freshwater lake of northwest center of Hanoi. There are many temples, pagodas, gardens and a range of other interesting architecture around the lake.
Dinner
For your last dinner, enjoy a Hot Pot, a popular dish in Hanoi. This dish is a simmering pot of soup stock at the dining table, containing a variety of East Asian foodstuffs and ingredients.
Evening
End your trip with a visit to Hanoi Opera House, a phenomenal piece of neo-classical French architecture featuring Gothic themes on the doors and domes.
Attractions in Itinerary (15)
1Old Quarter
The Old Quarter, near Hoan Kiem lake, has the original street layout and architecture of old Hanoi. At the beginning of the 20th century the city consisted of only about 36 streets, most of which are now part of the old quarter. Each street then had merchants and households specialized in a particular trade, such as silk traders, jewellery, etc. The street names nowadays still reflect these specializations, although few of them remain exclusively in their original commerce.
2Pho
A popular street food in Vietnam, Pho is a noodle soup consisting of broth, rice noodles, herbs, and meat, usually beef or chicken.
3Temple of Literature
Known as Quoc Tu Giam in Vietnamese, the Temple of Literature was Vietnam's first university, which functioned for an incredible 700 years. Its gardens and well-preserved architecture offer a relaxing glimpse into Vietnam’s past.
4Bun Cha
A Vietnamese dish of grilled pork and noodle, which is thought to have originated from Hanoi, Vietnam. Bun Cha is served with grilled fatty pork over a plate of white rice noodle and herbs with a side dish of dipping sauce.
5Water Puppet Show
Water puppetry is a tradition that dates back as far as the 11th century when it originated in the villages of the Red River Delta area of northern Vietnam. Today's Vietnamese water puppetry is a unique variation on the ancient Asian puppet tradition.
6Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum
This is a large memorial in Hanoi, Vietnam. It is located in the center of Ba Dinh Square, which is the place where Ho Chi Minh, Chairman of the Communist Party of Vietnam from 1951 until his death in 1969, read the Declaration of Independence on 2 September 1945, establishing the Democratic Republic of Vietnam.
7Cha Ca
A distinctive Hanoi delicacy, Cha Ca is a flavorful dish made of grilled fish, dill, turmeric, and other spices. It's typically served with peanuts, coriander, noodles and nuoc cham sauce.
8Vietnam Museum of Ethnology
The Vietnam Museum of Ethnology is a museum in Hanoi, Vietnam, which focuses on the 54 officially recognized ethnic groups in Vietnam. It is widely considered to be the finest modern museum in Vietnam and a tourist attraction in Hanoi.
9Banh Mi
A Vietnamese sandwich that consists of a baguette, filled with a variety of ingredients, typically includes meat and vegetables, and is a fusion of meats and vegetables from native Vietnamese cuisine like coriander leaf, cucumber, and pickled carrots and daikon combined with condiments from French cuisine such as pâté.
10Night Market
Hanoi's Night Market is a bustling outdoor marketplace that offers a variety of goods, from clothes and accessories to street food. It's a great place to experience the local culture, taste Vietnamese cuisine, and buy souvenirs.
11Imperial Citadel of Thang Long
The Imperial Citadel of Thang Long is an intriguing relic of Vietnam’s history and, signifying its historical and cultural importance, was made a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2010. Also known as the Hanoi Citadel, many artefacts and items dating back to between the 6th and 20th centuries were excavated in 2004, including foundations of old palaces, ancient roads, ponds and wells.
12Banh Cuon
A traditional Vietnamese dish, Banh Cuon is a delicate and light dish usually eaten for breakfast in Vietnam. It is a type of rolled and steamed rice pancake filled with minced pork and wood ear mushrooms.
13West Lake
West Lake is the largest freshwater lake in Hanoi, Vietnam. With a shore length of 17 km and 500 hectare in area, this is the largest lake of the capital and a popular place for recreation with many surrounding gardens, hotels and villas.
14Hot Pot
A simmering pot of soup stock, placed at the center of the dining table, and ingredients are gathered around the pot, including variety of raw meats, vegetables, and noodles. Each person can customize their own bowl according to their preferences.
15Hanoi Opera House
The Hanoi Opera House is an elegant colonial building at the heart of Hanoi that is a metaphor for Hanoi in the early 20th century: it is at once French yet Vietnamese, and an indication that Hanoi was not just a French colony but a city that had been influenced by the East and the West.
Local Food and Drinks (12)
Pho
A traditional Vietnamese soup consisting of broth, rice noodles, and meat, usually beef or chicken. Pho is a popular street food in Hanoi and is considered a staple in the local diet.
Bun Cha
A Hanoi specialty, Bun Cha is a dish of grilled pork and noodle, served with a side of fresh herbs and a flavorful dipping sauce.
Cha Ca
A distinctive Hanoi dish, Cha Ca is a flavorful dish of grilled fish seasoned with turmeric, dill, and other spices, typically served with rice noodles.
Banh Mi
A Vietnamese sandwich made with a baguette filled with a variety of ingredients, including meats, pickled vegetables, and fresh herbs. Banh Mi is a popular street food in Hanoi.
Bia Hoi
A type of draft beer that is popular in Hanoi. Bia Hoi is light, refreshing, and typically enjoyed in the evening at local beer corners.
Ca Phe Trung
A unique Hanoi coffee drink made with egg yolks, sugar, condensed milk, and robusta coffee. Ca Phe Trung is often enjoyed as a dessert.
Banh Cuon
A traditional Hanoi dish, Banh Cuon are thin, steamed rice rolls filled with ground pork and wood ear mushrooms, often served with a dipping sauce.
Xoi Xeo
A popular Hanoi street food, Xoi Xeo is a dish of sticky rice topped with mung bean paste, fried onions, and shredded chicken.
Nem Ran
Also known as Vietnamese spring rolls, Nem Ran are crispy rolls filled with pork, shrimp, and vegetables. They are a popular appetizer in Hanoi.
Che
A traditional Vietnamese dessert beverage, Che is a sweet soup made with a variety of ingredients, including beans, tapioca, fruit, and coconut milk.
Bun Rieu
A traditional Hanoi dish, Bun Rieu is a flavorful soup made with rice vermicelli, fresh water crab, tomatoes, and tofu.
Nom Hoa Chuoi
A refreshing Hanoi salad, Nom Hoa Chuoi is made with banana flowers, green papaya, carrots, and herbs, dressed with a tangy fish sauce dressing.
Best time to visit
The best time to visit Hanoi, Vietnam is during the cooler months from October to April. During this period, the weather is generally pleasant with lower humidity. The average temperature ranges from 17-22 degrees Celsius. However, if you want to experience the traditional Vietnamese New Year (Tet), you should plan your visit in late January or early February. Please note that during Tet, many shops and restaurants may be closed for the holidays.
National holidays
Here you can find the national calendar of all public holidays for the year. These dates are subject to change as official changes are announced, so check back regularly for updates.
| Date | Day | Holiday Name |
|---|---|---|
January 1 | Mon | International New Year's Day |
February 9 | Fri | Vietnamese New Year's Eve |
February 10 | Sat | Vietnamese New Year |
February 11 | Sun | Tet holiday |
February 12 | Mon | Tet holiday |
February 13 | Tue | Tet holiday |
February 14 | Wed | Tet holiday |
April 18 | Thu | Hung Kings Festival |
April 30 | Tue | Liberation Day/Reunification Day |
May 1 | Wed | International Labor Day |
September 2 | Mon | Independence Day |
How to get around
Walk
Hanoi's Old Quarter and many of its attractions are within walking distance. It's a great way to explore the city and soak in the local culture.
Bicycle
Bicycles are a popular mode of transport in Hanoi. They can be rented from various locations around the city. It's a great way to explore the city at your own pace.
Motorbike
Motorbikes are the most common mode of transport in Hanoi. You can rent one, but be aware that the traffic can be chaotic and driving rules are not always followed.
Taxi
Taxis are readily available in Hanoi. Make sure to use a reputable company to avoid scams. Most taxis are metered.
Grab
Grab is a popular ride-hailing app in Hanoi, offering both car and motorbike rides. It's a convenient and affordable way to get around the city.
Bus
Hanoi has an extensive bus network that covers the city and its outskirts. It's a cheap way to get around, but can be crowded during peak hours.
Train
For longer distances, such as trips to the suburbs or other cities, the train is a good option. Hanoi's main train station is located in the city center.
Xe Om (Motorbike Taxi)
Xe Om, or motorbike taxis, are a common sight in Hanoi. They're a quick and cheap way to get around, but make sure to agree on a price before the ride.
Private Car Hire
For a more comfortable and convenient way to explore Hanoi, consider hiring a private car with a driver. This can be arranged through hotels or travel agencies.
Cycle Rickshaw (Cyclo)
Cyclos are a traditional mode of transport in Hanoi, often used for short trips around the Old Quarter. It's a unique way to see the city, but negotiate the price before you get in.
Water Puppet Theatre Boat
For a unique experience, take a boat ride to the Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre. The boat departs from various locations around Hoan Kiem Lake.
Important information
Currency₫ VND
Time zoneUTC+7
Driving sideRight
Emergency phoneAmbulance: 05; Fire: 08; Police: 03
Drinking waterOpt for bottled water
Power sockets
Voltage220 V
Things to know about Hanoi, Vietnam as a first time visitor
1
Vietnam's official currency is the Vietnamese Dong (VND). Credit cards are accepted in many places but carrying some cash is advisable for smaller establishments.
2
The official language is Vietnamese. English is not widely spoken outside of tourist areas and major hotels.
3
Hanoi has a tropical monsoon climate. The summer (May to September) is hot and humid with temperatures ranging from 77°F to 104°F (25°C to 40°C), while the winter (November to March) is cooler and dry with temperatures ranging from 57°F to 68°F (14°C to 20°C).
4
Hanoi is generally safe for tourists but like any other city, petty crimes like pickpocketing and bag snatching can occur. Always keep an eye on your belongings.
5
Taxis are plentiful and inexpensive. However, be aware of taxi scams. Always use reputable companies like Mai Linh or Vinasun.
6
Hanoi is famous for its street food. However, if you have a sensitive stomach, be cautious about where you eat. Stick to places that are busy with locals.
7
Tap water is not safe to drink. Always drink bottled water.
8
Vietnamese people are generally conservative. Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites.
9
Hanoi is in the Indochina Time Zone (ICT), which is 7 hours ahead of Greenwich Mean Time (GMT+7).
10
Vietnam has a 220-240V power supply. The power sockets are of type A, C, and D. You may need a power plug adapter.
11
Hanoi's traffic is notoriously chaotic, especially during peak hours. Always be careful when crossing the road.
12
Bargaining is common in markets and some shops. Don't be afraid to negotiate the price.
13
Public displays of affection are not common in Vietnam. It's best to avoid it to respect local customs.
14
Vietnam has strict laws on drug use. Possession, trafficking, and use of drugs are serious offenses with severe penalties.
15
Tipping is not customary in Vietnam. However, in high-end restaurants and hotels, a service charge is often added to the bill.
16
The emergency numbers in Vietnam are: 113 for police, 115 for medical emergencies, and 114 for fire.
17
Hanoi has a vibrant nightlife. However, most establishments close by midnight due to local regulations.
18
Public Wi-Fi is widely available in Hanoi. However, for security reasons, avoid conducting sensitive transactions over public networks.
19
Avoid discussing sensitive topics such as politics and the Vietnam War. These topics can be seen as disrespectful.
20
Always ask for permission before taking photos of people, especially in rural areas and of religious or military sites.
Basic Vietnamese to know as a first time visitor
English phrase | Native phrase | Pronunciation | When to use it |
|---|---|---|---|
Hello | Xin chào | Sin chow | Greeting someone |
Goodbye | Tạm biệt | Tam byet | Leaving or saying goodbye |
Thank you | Cảm ơn | Kam uhn | Showing gratitude |
Yes | Có | Koh | Agreeing or confirming |
No | Không | Khong | Disagreeing or denying |
Please | Làm ơn | Lam uhn | Making a request |
Excuse me | Xin lỗi | Sin loy | Apologizing or getting attention |
I don't understand | Tôi không hiểu | Toy khong hee-oo | When you don't understand what was said |
Do you speak English? | Bạn có nói tiếng Anh không? | Ban koh noy thang anh khong? | Trying to find someone who speaks English |
I'm sorry | Tôi xin lỗi | Toy sin loy | Apologizing |
Where is the bathroom? | Nhà vệ sinh ở đâu? | Nha vay sin o dau? | Looking for the bathroom |
How much does this cost? | Cái này giá bao nhiêu? | Cai nay gia bao nhieu? | Asking for the price |
I would like to order | Tôi muốn đặt món | Toy moon dat mon | Ordering food |
Help | Giúp đỡ | Zoop doh | In case of emergency |
Water | Nước | Nook | Asking for water |
Food | Thức ăn | Thook an | Talking about food |
Beer | Bia | Bee-ah | Ordering a beer |
Coffee | Cà phê | Ca fe | Ordering coffee |
Taxi | Taxi | Taxi | Looking for transportation |
Hotel | Khách sạn | Khak san | Looking for a hotel |
Packing List
Clothing
Lightweight clothing
Underwear
Socks
Comfortable walking shoes
Swimwear (if you plan to visit Halong Bay)
Light jacket or sweater for cooler evenings
Raincoat or umbrella
Hat and sunglasses for sun protection
Toiletries
Travel-sized shampoo and conditioner
Body wash or soap
Toothbrush and toothpaste
Deodorant
Razor and shaving cream
Makeup and makeup remover
Sunscreen
Insect repellent
First aid kit with band-aids and antiseptic wipes
Prescription medications
Travel-sized laundry detergent
Travel documents and essentials
Passport
Vietnam visa
Driver's license or other form of ID
Credit and debit cards
Cash in both your home currency and Vietnamese dong
Travel insurance documents
Hotel and tour reservation confirmations
Emergency contact information
Electronics and gadgets
Smartphone
Charger for your phone
Universal power adapter
Headphones
Camera and charger
Memory cards for your camera
Portable power bank
Miscellaneous items
Travel pillow and blanket
Earplugs and eye mask
Snacks
Water bottle
Books or e-reader for the flight
Travel guidebook for Hanoi
Vietnamese phrasebook or language app
Notebook and pen
Reusable shopping bag
Travel-sized wet wipes and hand sanitizer
Weather Conditions
Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam, experiences a tropical monsoon climate, which includes a hot, wet season and a cooler, dry season. From May to September, Hanoi experiences its summer monsoon season. During this time, the city can be quite hot and humid, with average temperatures ranging from 77°F to 95°F (25°C to 35°C). This period is also marked by heavy rainfall, especially in July and August. If you're planning to visit during these months, it's advisable to carry lightweight, breathable clothing, a good quality umbrella, and waterproof footwear. Despite the rain, this season can be a great time to visit Hanoi's indoor attractions like museums and galleries. The winter monsoon season, from November to March, brings cooler, drier weather. Temperatures during this time can range from 57°F to 68°F (14°C to 20°C). It's recommended to pack warmer clothing, especially for the evenings which can be quite chilly. This is a great time to explore outdoor attractions like the Old Quarter and Hoan Kiem Lake. In between these two seasons, April and October offer relatively mild and pleasant weather, making them ideal months for sightseeing and outdoor activities. Regardless of when you visit, it's always a good idea to check the local weather forecast before your trip to help you pack appropriately. Also, remember that the weather can change quickly in Hanoi, so it's wise to always carry an umbrella or raincoat with you. Lastly, Hanoi can experience occasional typhoons, especially during the summer monsoon season. While these are usually forecasted well in advance, it's important to stay updated with local news and weather updates during your visit.
| Month | Hi / Lo (°C) | Weather Overview |
|---|---|---|
January | 23° / 14° | January is the coldest month in Hanoi, with temperatures ranging from 14°C to 23°C. It's also the driest month, so it's a good time to visit if you prefer cooler, drier weather. |
February | 24° / 15° | February sees a slight increase in temperature, with lows of 15°C and highs of 24°C. The weather remains dry, making it a comfortable time for sightseeing. |
March | 28° / 18° | In March, temperatures start to rise, ranging from 18°C to 28°C. The weather is generally pleasant, with occasional rain showers. |
April | 31° / 21° | April is the start of the warm season in Hanoi, with temperatures ranging from 21°C to 31°C. Expect occasional rain showers and high humidity. |
May | 34° / 24° | May is quite hot in Hanoi, with temperatures ranging from 24°C to 34°C. It's also the start of the rainy season, so be prepared for sudden showers. |
June | 36° / 26° | June is one of the hottest months in Hanoi, with temperatures reaching up to 36°C. It's also part of the rainy season, so expect frequent showers and high humidity. |
July | 36° / 26° | July is similar to June, with high temperatures and frequent rain showers. Despite the heat and rain, it's a good time to experience Hanoi's vibrant summer festivals. |
August | 36° / 26° | August continues the trend of hot, rainy weather. It's a good time to visit if you don't mind the heat and want to experience the lush, green landscapes after the rain. |
September | 35° / 25° | In September, temperatures start to decrease slightly, ranging from 25°C to 35°C. The weather remains rainy, so pack accordingly. |
October | 32° / 22° | October sees a significant drop in temperature, with lows of 22°C and highs of 32°C. The weather is generally pleasant, with less rain compared to the summer months. |
November | 28° / 18° | November is the start of the cool season in Hanoi, with temperatures ranging from 18°C to 28°C. The weather is generally dry, making it a comfortable time for sightseeing. |
December | 25° / 15° | December is one of the coldest months in Hanoi, with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C. It's a good time to visit if you prefer cooler, drier weather. |
Did you know?
Places near by Hanoi, Vietnam
Halong Bay
A UNESCO World Heritage site known for its emerald waters and thousands of towering limestone islands topped by rainforests.
Tam Dao
A hill station with cool weather all year round, beautiful landscapes, and colonial architecture.
Trang An Landscape Complex
A spectacular landscape of limestone karst peaks permeated with valleys, caves and rivers.
Perfume Pagoda
A vast complex of Buddhist temples and shrines built into the limestone Huong Tich mountains.
Bat Trang Pottery Village
A traditional porcelain and pottery village with history of seven centuries, is an interesting attraction in Hanoi that tourists should not ignore.
Cuc Phuong National Park
Vietnam's largest national park, home to an amazing diversity of flora and fauna.
Duong Lam Ancient Village
A purely agricultural village of the Northern Red River delta where still preserve many hundred-year-old houses.
Van Long Nature Reserve
The largest wetland nature reserve in the Northern Delta, a place of beautiful natural landscapes.
Thung Nham Bird Park
A natural habitat of many kinds of bird. Tourists can explore the wild beauty of nature and life of birds here.
Ba Vi National Park
A national park located 48 km west of Hanoi, known for its three-peaked mountain that juts steeply up into the sky and is often topped by cloud.
