7 days in Hanoi, Vietnam: What to see, eat and do. Full city guide
Hanoi, Vietnam’s bustling capital, is an enchanting blend of East meets West, with a touch of French colonial charm thrown into the mix. From the labyrinth-like streets of the Old Quarter to the stunning Hoan Kiem Lake, Hanoi boasts countless fascinating sights waiting to be explored. Foodies will relish the fragrant flavors of the city’s street food while history buffs can soak up the rich history at the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and Imperial Citadel. Ready to discover the hidden gems of this vibrant city? Buckle up, my friends, because you’re in for a journey like no other!
Things to consider before arriving to Hanoi
Affordable living: Your wallet will thank you. Hanoi is known for its low cost of living, making it an excellent destination for budget travelers.
Rich culture: Hanoi’s captivating blend of ancient history and modern society is truly unique. Culture enthusiasts will be thrilled by what the city offers.
Traffic: Be prepared for chaotic streets filled with motorbikes and honking horns – it can be a shock for newcomers.
Ideal for: Backpackers, history buffs, and food lovers will feel right at home in Hanoi.
What to bring with you
– Comfortable walking shoes: Trust me, you’ll be doing a lot of walking through Hanoi’s bustling streets.
– Lightweight and modest clothing: Vietnam’s climate can be hot and humid, so pack accordingly – but conservative clothing is advised when visiting temples and pagodas.
– Universal power adapter: Vietnam uses type A, C, and D sockets, so bring a universal adapter to keep your devices charged.
Best time of the year to visit Hanoi
October and November are considered the best months to visit Hanoi. During this time, the weather is cool, dry, and perfect for exploring. By December, temperatures may start to drop, which makes exploring the city a little more challenging.
How to get into the city
1. ✈️ By plane: The most common way to arrive in Hanoi is via the Noi Bai International Airport (HAN). It’s about 28km from the city center, and you can reach the city by bus, taxi, or airport shuttle.
2. By train: For train enthusiasts, there are several routes connecting Hanoi to other Vietnamese cities and even international destinations. The Hanoi Railway Station is located in the city center and offers a unique way to reach the city.
3. By bus: Another option to enter Hanoi is via bus from other cities in Vietnam, Cambodia, or Laos. The main bus station, My Dinh, serves most destinations but double-check which station you’ll be arriving at before you go.
7 Day City Guide Trip in Hanoi, Vietnam
Day 1: Exploring the Old Quarter
Start off by walking around the charming Old Quarter, admiring the narrow streets filled with shops and traditional buildings. Visit the iconic Hoan Kiem Lake and Ngoc Son Temple. For lunch, try a bowl of authentic pho at Pho Thin. In the evening, head to Bia Hoi Junction to enjoy cheap beer and street food.
Day 2: Temple of Literature and Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum
Visit the Temple of Literature, Vietnam’s first university dating back to the 11th century. Then, head to the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum to see the preserved embalmed body of the nation’s leader. For a break, relax in the peaceful gardens of the Presidential Palace. In the evening, watch a traditional water puppet show at the Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre.
Day 3: Day Trip to Halong Bay
Take a day trip to Halong Bay, a breathtaking UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its stunning limestone cliffs. Take a boat ride to see the floating fishing villages and explore the gorgeous caves. For lunch, try some fresh seafood at one of the restaurants on the bay before heading back to Hanoi.
Day 4: Hidden Gems in Hanoi
Explore some of the city’s hidden gems, such as the Long Bien Bridge, the oldest bridge in Hanoi that’s full of history, and the Train Street, where trains pass through a narrow residential street. Have lunch at Bun Cha Dac Kim, a famous spot for the traditional fried pork dish. In the evening, experience the nightlife scene at the French Quarter.
Day 5: Day Trip to Ninh Binh
Take a day trip to Ninh Binh, dubbed as “Halong Bay on land” for its stunning karst mountains. Visit the ancient capital of Hoa Lu and explore the caves of Trang An. Don’t miss out on trying the local specialty dish, goat meat!
Day 6: Vietnamese Coffee and Hoa Lo Prison Museum
Start the day with a cup of Vietnamese coffee, either at one of the many cafes in the city or at the famous Cafe Giang. Learn about the history of the Vietnam War at the Hoa Lo Prison Museum. Have lunch at Quan An Ngon, a popular restaurant that serves various Vietnamese dishes. Spend the evening at the lively Ta Hien street, filled with bars and street food vendors.
Day 7: Art and History Museums
Spend the day at the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology, learning about the various ethnic groups and their traditions. Then, visit the Fine Arts Museum to see the impressive collection of Vietnamese art. For lunch, try Bun Thang at Bun Thang Ba Duc. End the day with a visit to the St. Joseph Cathedral, a beautiful Gothic-style church in the heart of Hanoi.
How to Continue Your Travel After You Have Spent 7 Days in Hanoi
If you have already explored Hanoi, consider taking a trip to nearby cities like Hai Phong or Ha Giang. Hai Phong is a coastal city known for its historic sites and beautiful beaches. Ha Giang, on the other hand, is a mountainous region known for its incredible scenery and unique culture. The best way to get to these cities is by renting a car or taking a bus from Hanoi. Both cities are within a 5-hour drive from Hanoi.
