3 day itinerary for Hanoi

Itinerary

Hanoi is a vibrant city filled with rich history, stunning architecture, and mouthwatering food. Let’s dive into a delightful 3-day itinerary that balances sightseeing and culinary experiences. Get ready for an adventure!

## Day 1: Exploring the Heart of Hanoi

Morning:

• Breakfast at Phở Gia Truyền: Start your day with a steaming bowl of phở, Vietnam’s famous noodle soup. This place is known for its rich broth and tender beef.
• Hoan Kiem Lake: After breakfast, take a leisurely stroll around Hoan Kiem Lake. It’s a beautiful spot to soak in the morning atmosphere and see locals practicing tai chi.

Midday:

• Ngoc Son Temple: Located on an island in the lake, this temple is dedicated to the legendary hero Tran Hung Dao. It’s a peaceful place to explore and learn about Vietnamese history.
• Lunch at Bun Cha Huong Lien: Try the iconic bun cha, grilled pork served with rice noodles and herbs. This spot gained fame when President Obama dined here!

Afternoon:

• Old Quarter: Spend your afternoon wandering through the bustling streets of the Old Quarter. Each street specializes in a different trade, so you’ll find everything from silk to street food.
• Water Puppet Show: Catch a traditional water puppet show at Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre. It’s a unique cultural experience that showcases Vietnamese folklore.

Evening:

• Dinner at Cha Ca La Vong: End your day with cha ca, a delicious dish of grilled fish with turmeric and dill. This restaurant has been serving it for generations!
• Night Market: If you’re up for it, explore the night market in the Old Quarter. It’s a great place to pick up souvenirs and enjoy street snacks.

## Day 2: Culture and History

Morning:

• Breakfast at a Local Café: Try a Vietnamese egg coffee (cà phê trứng) at Giang Café. It’s a sweet and creamy treat that will kickstart your day!
• Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum: Visit the mausoleum where the beloved leader Ho Chi Minh is laid to rest. Make sure to dress respectfully and be prepared for a bit of a wait.

Midday:

• One Pillar Pagoda: Just a short walk from the mausoleum, this iconic pagoda is a must-see. Its unique architecture is stunning!
• Lunch at Koto: Enjoy lunch at Koto, a restaurant that trains disadvantaged youth in hospitality. The food is delicious, and you’re supporting a great cause!

Afternoon:

• Vietnam Museum of Ethnology: Dive into the diverse cultures of Vietnam at this fascinating museum. The outdoor exhibits are particularly interesting!
• Temple of Literature: Visit Vietnam’s first university, dedicated to Confucius. The beautiful gardens and ancient architecture are perfect for a leisurely stroll.

Evening:

• Dinner at Quan An Ngon: This restaurant offers a variety of traditional Vietnamese dishes in a charming setting. It’s a great place to sample different flavors!
• Stroll through the French Quarter: After dinner, take a walk through the French Quarter to admire the colonial architecture and perhaps stop for a drink at a rooftop bar.

## Day 3: Day Trip and Culinary Delights

Morning:

• Breakfast at a Local Banh Mi Shop: Grab a banh mi sandwich from a local vendor. It’s a perfect on-the-go breakfast!
• ## Day Trip to Ninh Binh: Take a day trip to Ninh Binh, often referred to as “Ha Long Bay on land.” You can book a tour or take a bus. Explore the stunning landscapes, rice paddies, and limestone karsts.

Midday:

• Lunch in Ninh Binh: Try the local specialty, goat meat, at a restaurant in Ninh Binh. It’s a unique taste of the region!
• Tam Coc Boat Ride: Enjoy a scenic boat ride through the caves and rice fields. It’s a serene experience that showcases the natural beauty of Vietnam.

Afternoon:

• Bich Dong Pagoda: Visit this beautiful pagoda set against a backdrop of limestone mountains. It’s a peaceful spot to reflect and take photos.
• Return to Hanoi: Head back to Hanoi in the late afternoon.

Evening:

• Dinner at Street Food Stalls: For your last night, indulge in a street food tour! Try various dishes like spring rolls, grilled skewers, and more. You can either join a guided tour or explore on your own.
• Enjoy a Nightcap: End your trip with a drink at a local bar or café, soaking in the vibrant nightlife of Hanoi.

And there you have it! A perfect blend of food and sightseeing to make the most of your 3 days in Hanoi. Enjoy every moment, and don’t forget to take lots of pictures! Safe travels! 🌏✨