Solo 3-Day Local Experience in Hanoi: Shopping, Food, Wine, and Sightseeing

Hanoi, Vietnam

3 days

Fruit seller with bicycle
Tran Quoc pagoda
Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum
Huong pagoda in autumn
Iconic Red Bridge

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 1

Exploring the Old Quarter and Cultural Experiences

Morning

Start your day with a visit to the bustling Old Quarter. This area is a maze of shopping streets and restaurants, with a history that spans more than a thousand years. Wander around the narrow streets, explore the boutique shops and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere.

Lunch

Enjoy a traditional Vietnamese lunch at a local eatery. Try the famous Pho, a Vietnamese soup consisting of broth, rice noodles, herbs, and meat. It's a staple in the local diet and a must-try for any food lover.

Afternoon

Visit the Temple of Literature, Vietnam's first national university. The temple hosts a lake of literature, the Well of Heavenly Clarity, turtle steles, pavilions, courtyards and passageways that were once used by royalty.

Dinner

For dinner, try Bun Cha, a local dish of grilled pork and noodle. It's one of Hanoi's most famous dishes and is enjoyed by locals and tourists alike.

Evening

End your day with a traditional Water Puppet Show. This unique Vietnamese art form beautifully illustrates the country's culture and folklore.

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.

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)

Old Quarter

1
Old 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.

Attractions
Cultural Experiences
Neighborhoods
Pho

2
Pho

A popular street food in Vietnam, Pho is a noodle soup consisting of broth, rice noodles, herbs, and meat, usually beef or chicken.

Food and Drink
Temple of Literature

3
Temple 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.

Attractions
Cultural Experiences
Religious Sites
Bun Cha

4
Bun 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.

Food and Drink
Water Puppet Show

5
Water 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.

Entertainment
Cultural Experiences
Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum

6
Ho 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.

Attractions
Monuments
Landmarks
Cha Ca

7
Cha 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.

Food and Drink
Vietnam Museum of Ethnology

8
Vietnam 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.

Attractions
Museums
Cultural Experiences
Banh Mi

9
Banh 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.

Food and Drink
Night Market

10
Night 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.

Shopping
Cultural Experiences
Imperial Citadel of Thang Long

11
Imperial 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.

Attractions
Monuments
Cultural Experiences
Banh Cuon

12
Banh 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.

Food and Drink
West Lake

13
West 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.

Attractions
Parks
Hot Pot

14
Hot 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.

Food and Drink
Hanoi Opera House

15
Hanoi 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.

Attractions
Cultural Experiences
Architecture

Local Food and Drinks (12)

Pho

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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.

DateDayHoliday 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

Please note that during national and public holidays, opening hours for establishments, museums, etc. may vary. Don't forget to check in advance!

How to get around

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.

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.

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.

Taxis are readily available in Hanoi. Make sure to use a reputable company to avoid scams. Most taxis are metered.

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.

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.

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, 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.

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.

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.

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.

While we strive for accuracy in our "How to get around" section, the information may not always be up-to-date or 100% accurate; we highly recommend cross-checking with local resources before your travel.

Important information

Currency₫ VND

Time zoneUTC+7

Driving sideRight

Emergency phoneAmbulance: 05; Fire: 08; Police: 03

Drinking waterOpt for bottled water

Power sockets

Power socket type APower socket type BPower socket type C

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

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.

MonthHi / 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?

Did you know that Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam, is over 1,000 years old?

1 of 10

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