Best Hanoi Tours & Trips

How Many Days in Hanoi is Enough?

For a first-time visit, we recommend 5 days. This allows for a more in-depth exploration of Hanoi, including essential day trips from the city, such as the limestone karst landscapes of Halong Bay or the rice paddies of Ninh Binh.

If you only have 3 days, that's still sufficient to cover Hanoi's main attractions.

Best Time to Travel to Hanoi

The ideal time to visit Hanoi is during spring (March-April) and autumn (September-November). Spring features mild weather with occasional rainfall, averaging 18-25°C (64-77°F). Autumn brings clear skies and sunshine, with average temperatures ranging from 20-28°C (68-82°F). Avoid the typhoon season from July to August, when flooding and strong winds may occur.

How to Get Around in Hanoi

Buses: Hanoi's bus system covers the city center and some suburban areas. Most buses accept cash payments, with fares ranging from 7,000 to 10,000 VND.

Bus: Hanoi's bus system covers the city center and some suburban areas. Most buses accept cash payments, with fares ranging from 7,000 to 10,000 Vietnamese Dong.

Metro: Currently, only Line 2A is operational in Hanoi, running from the city center toward the southwest.

Taxi: Reputable companies like Mai Linh (green) and Vinasun (white) are safe choices. Ensure the meter is running and the driver uses the correct starting fare.

Motorbike Taxi: The most common and authentic way to get around Hanoi. You can hail one on the street or book via an app, making it ideal during peak traffic hours.

Ride-hailing: We highly recommend using Grab to call for motorbikes and cars, which offers fixed fares and driver accountability.

Must-Visit Attractions in Hanoi

The Old Quarter: Nestled in the heart of Hanoi, it features narrow streets and French colonial architecture. It's also filled with intriguing shops and delicious street food. You can wander through the 36 ancient streets, each historically dedicated to a specific trade.

Hoan Kiem Lake & Ngoc Son Temple: Located near the Old Quarter, this is a pleasant spot for a stroll, surrounded by ancient trees and walking paths. At the lake's center stands Ngoc Son Temple, accessible via the red Huc Bridge.

Temple of Literature: Vietnam's first national university, with a history dating back to 1070. It is a well-preserved traditional structure dedicated to Confucius. Perfect for spending a peaceful afternoon.

Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum: The final resting place of Vietnam's revolutionary leader. Please note that the mausoleum is typically open only in the morning and closes periodically each year for maintenance. Be sure to wear long sleeves and long pants.

Hoa Lo Prison: This was once a prison used to detain revolutionaries and prisoners of war. Today, it serves as a museum where visitors can learn about Vietnamese history and the personal stories of the prisoners.

Day Trips from Hanoi

From Hanoi, you can reach Vietnam's most famous natural wonders.

Ha Long Bay: A 2.5- to 3-hour shuttle bus ride from Hanoi brings you to Ha Long Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring thousands of towering limestone islands. An overnight cruise is recommended to witness the sunrise or sunset.

Ninh Binh: A 1-hour 20-minute bus ride from Hanoi brings you to this destination, where lush rice paddies and winding rivers offer tranquil countryside scenery.

Sample 5-Day Itinerary in Hanoi

A 5-day Hanoi travel itinerary allows you to explore the city's attractions while also enjoying a day trip. Maximize your exposure to culture, history, and scenery.

Day 1: Explore the Old Quarter, savor local street food, and browse specialty shops. Later, head to Hoan Kiem Lake and visit Ngoc Son Temple. In the evening, catch a traditional water puppet show at Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre.

Day 2: Visit Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and the Presidential Palace, noting opening hours and dressing appropriately. Spend a tranquil afternoon at the Temple of Literature, then enjoy the local night market in the Old Quarter in the evening.

Day 3: Take a day trip to Ninh Binh. Enjoy a boat tour in Trang An or Tam Coc. In the afternoon, visit Bich Dong Pagoda or explore the Vietnamese countryside by bicycle. Returning to Hanoi in the evening.

Day 4: Visit Hoa Lo Prison to learn about Vietnam's history, then explore the French Quarter to admire its elegant architecture and St. Joseph's Cathedral, relaxing at a local café. In the evening, grab a drink at Hanoi Train Street and watch the trains pass by.

Day 5: Visit Tran Quoc Pagoda and enjoy last-minute shopping in the Old Quarter or at Trang Tien Plaza.

Savoring the Flavors of Hanoi

Pho: The quintessential Vietnamese noodle soup. In Hanoi, the broth tends to be lighter and more aromatic than in the South.

Bún Chả: Grilled pork patties and sliced pork belly served in a sweet and sour broth with rice vermicelli noodles and fresh herbs.

Bánh Mì: The Vietnamese baguette sandwich, typically stuffed with pâté, cold cuts, fresh cilantro, cucumber, and pickled carrots.

Cà Phê Trứng: A rich, creamy coffee topped with a whisked egg yolk and condensed milk. A uniquely Hanoian invention.

Hanoi Accommodation Areas

For first-time visitors to Hanoi, the Old Quarter is an absolute must-see. It's close to major attractions and offers a wealth of culinary delights. Accommodation options range from hostels to hotels.

Next is the French Quarter, which is quieter than the Old Quarter and features elegant architecture alongside more luxurious hotels.

Safety Tips for Hanoi Travel

When crossing the street, be mindful of the numerous motorcycles in Hanoi and pay attention to their direction.

Protect your belongings: Stay vigilant against opportunistic theft, especially in crowded areas like the Old Quarter and local markets. Secure your phone and camera.

Choose reputable services: Always select well-established providers for transportation and lodging. When taking taxis, insist on major companies like Mai Linh or Vinasun, or use Grab.

Avoid unidentified alcohol: Ensure your drinks are safe and never consume beverages without proper labeling.