When planning a Vietnam itinerary, including Hanoi is an absolute must. Not only is Hanoi the vibrant capital of Vietnam, but it also serves as a cultural and historical epicenter.

The Old Quarter of Hanoi is chaotic, colorful, and alive with energy. It’s a place that never sleeps, offering endless sights, sounds, and experiences.

With so much history and culture packed into this city, a week could easily be spent hopping between museums and historical sites.

Is 3 Days Enough for Hanoi?

A 3-day itinerary in Hanoi is just the right amount of time to explore the city's top sights and venture to Ha Long Bay. Though it’s possible to visit the Old Quarter, Hoan Kiem Lake, and perhaps a museum in one day, you’ll miss out on the full experience of what this incredible city has to offer.

If you’re staying longer than three days, there are also day trips and weekend excursions you can explore. After spending a month in Hanoi, it became clear that the city has so much to offer beyond its central attractions.

The Best Time to Visit Hanoi

The best time to visit Hanoi is during the dry season, from November to April. However, the winter months, especially January through March, can be cooler, with temperatures dropping significantly. If you prefer warmer weather, April to June is ideal, with mild humidity and less rainfall.

The rainy season, from June to August, can be intense, with heavy rains and high humidity. It’s a time best avoided unless you enjoy the tropical monsoon atmosphere.

Getting Around Hanoi

Though many parts of Hanoi, such as the Old Quarter and Hoan Kiem Lake, are walkable, other areas like Train Street and certain museums are best reached by taxi or scooter. The traffic in Hanoi can be chaotic, and the sidewalks are often obstructed, making walking less practical.

Hanoi Itinerary: Day 1

Try Egg Coffee

Kick off your day by sampling egg coffee, a drink first created in Hanoi as a milk substitute during the post-war milk shortages. The original spot, Café Giang, is a great place to try this iconic Vietnamese coffee. If you’re a coffee enthusiast, don’t miss out on other local drinks like Vietnamese Coconut Coffee.

Explore the Old Quarter

The Old Quarter is a must-visit. This bustling area is filled with vibrant cafes, street food stalls, and colorful French style buildings. A visit here both day and night offers a truly immersive experience.

Visit Ngoc Son Temple and Hoan Kiem Lake

Situated near the Old Quarter, Ngoc Son Temple is located in the middle of Hoan Kiem Lake. The striking red bridge leading to the temple is iconic, and the temple itself offers a peaceful retreat. Entrance is only 50,000 VND (roughly £1.60/$1.90), making it an affordable yet beautiful stop.

Visit Hanoi Train Street

Hanoi Train Street is one of the city’s most unique attractions. The narrow street is lined with cafes right next to the train tracks. Grab a drink, relax, and wait for the train to pass by. It’s an unforgettable experience. Just make sure to check the train schedule!

Hanoi Itinerary: Day 2

Start with Coffee at The Note Coffee

The Note Coffee is an Instagram-famous spot by Hoan Kiem Lake, covered in colorful post-it notes from visitors around the world. Enjoy your coffee while adding your own message to the walls. It’s a quirky and fun stop to kick off your day.

Explore the Temple of Literature

The Temple of Literature is one of Hanoi’s most popular attractions. It’s an ancient Confucian temple that once served as the country’s first university. Arriving early in the morning or just before closing can help you avoid the crowds.

Visit the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum

The Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum is an essential visit for anyone interested in Vietnam’s history. Though you’ll need to adhere to a strict dress code, the mausoleum houses the embalmed body of Vietnam's revered leader, Uncle Ho.

Evening Walk Around West Lake

Dear Lykkers, head to the West Lake area for an evening stroll. The area is quieter than the Old Quarter and offers a serene view of the sunset.

Hanoi Itinerary: Day 3

Take a Ha Long Bay Cruise

No trip to Hanoi is complete without visiting Ha Long Bay. The picturesque bay is dotted with towering limestone islands, offering some of the most stunning views in Vietnam. A one-night, two-day cruise is an excellent way to explore Ha Long Bay, with activities such as kayaking, hiking, and even squid fishing!

The cruise package includes hotel pick-up, all meals, excursions, and even a spring roll cooking class.

Extending Your Stay

If you have more than three days in Hanoi, here are a few additional suggestions:

Explore the Tay Ho neighborhood, home to beautiful lakes and expat-friendly spots.

Explore Bat Trang Pottery Village for a glimpse of traditional Vietnamese crafts.

Visit the weekend markets around Hoan Kiem Lake when the streets are closed to vehicles.