3 Days in Hanoi: The Perfect Hanoi Itinerary

The moment I stepped out of my taxi into Hanoi's Old Quarter, I knew I was in for a treat. The narrow streets buzzed with activity - motorbikes weaved through crowds, the aroma of pho wafted from tiny restaurants, and vendors called out from their storefronts. My wife Sarah grabbed my arm, her eyes wide with excitement. "West, can you believe we're finally here?" she exclaimed. I couldn't. After months of planning our Vietnam adventure, we were about to embark on three unforgettable days in Hanoi.

Hanoi, Vietnam's capital, is a city where ancient traditions and modern ambitions collide in the most fascinating ways. With over 1000 years of history, it's a place where you can explore centuries-old temples in the morning and sip craft cocktails in sleek rooftop bars by night. From the chaotic charm of the Old Quarter to the tree-lined boulevards of the French Quarter, Hanoi offers a sensory overload that will leave you wanting more.

Why three days in Hanoi? It's the perfect amount of time to get a taste of the city's main attractions, dive into its rich culture, and still have room for spontaneous discoveries. You'll have enough time to see the highlights, sample the incredible food scene, and even take a breather by one of the city's serene lakes. Plus, with this itinerary, you'll avoid the dreaded feeling of FOMO (Fear of Missing Out) that comes with a shorter stay.

So, are you ready to dive into the wonderful chaos that is Hanoi? Grab a Vietnamese coffee, and let's get started with planning your perfect 3 days in Hanoi!

Pre-Trip Planning: Setting Yourself Up for Success

Before we jump into the day-by-day itinerary, let's cover some essential pre-trip planning to ensure your 3 days in Hanoi are smooth sailing.

When to Visit Hanoi

Timing is everything when it comes to visiting Hanoi. The city experiences four distinct seasons, each with its own charm (and challenges). Here's a quick rundown:

• Spring (February to April): Mild temperatures and occasional drizzles. Perfect for exploring without breaking a sweat.
• Summer (May to August): Hot and humid with frequent downpours. Great for enjoying Hanoi's lakes and indoor attractions.
• Fall (September to November): The golden season. Comfortable temperatures and clear skies make this the ideal time to visit.
• Winter (December to January): Cool and dry. Pack a jacket and enjoy Hanoi's cozy cafes.

For the best experience, aim for the fall months between September and November. The weather is mild, and you'll catch the city at its most photogenic with golden sunlight and clear skies. Plus, you'll avoid the peak tourist crowds of December and January.

What to Pack

Packing for Hanoi is all about balancing comfort, style, and practicality. Here's what you shouldn't leave home without:

• Comfortable walking shoes (you'll be doing a lot of exploring on foot)
• Light, breathable clothing (think cotton and linen)
• A light jacket or sweater for cooler evenings
• Rain jacket or compact umbrella (especially if visiting during the rainy season)
• Modest clothing for temple visits (shoulders and knees covered)
• Sunscreen and a hat (the sun can be intense, even on cloudy days)
• Portable charger (for all those Instagram-worthy moments)
• Reusable water bottle (stay hydrated and reduce plastic waste)
• Travel adapter (Vietnam uses Types A, C, and F plugs)

Pro tip: Pack a set of nice clothes for evenings out. Hanoi has some fantastic upscale restaurants and bars that are worth dressing up for!

Getting Around Hanoi

Navigating Hanoi can be an adventure in itself. Here are your best options:

1. Walking: The best way to explore the Old Quarter and nearby attractions. Just watch out for motorbikes!
2. Grab: Southeast Asia's answer to Uber. Download the app before you arrive for hassle-free rides.
3. Taxis: Stick to reputable companies like Mai Linh or Vinasun. Always ensure the meter is running.
4. Motorbike taxis (xe om): For the adventurous. Negotiate the price before hopping on.
5. Cyclos: Touristy but fun for short trips. Again, agree on a price beforehand.

Remember, Hanoi's traffic can be overwhelming at first. Always look both ways before crossing, even on one-way streets!

Safety Tips and Cultural Etiquette

Hanoi is generally a safe city, but it's always good to be prepared. Here are some tips to keep in mind:

• Keep valuables close and be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas.
• Avoid drinking tap water. Stick to bottled water or bring a water purifier.
• Dress modestly when visiting temples and religious sites.
• Always ask before taking photos of people or inside temples.
• Remove your shoes when entering someone's home or certain shops.
• Use your right hand when giving or receiving items.
• Don't point with your finger or feet (considered rude in Vietnamese culture).

Remember, a smile goes a long way in Hanoi. Most locals are friendly and appreciate visitors who respect their customs.

Where to Stay: Finding Your Perfect Hanoi Home Base

Choosing the right place to stay can make or break your Hanoi experience. Here's a breakdown of the best areas to stay for your 3 days in Hanoi, along with some top hotel picks:

Old Quarter

The heart of Hanoi and the best place to stay if you want to be in the middle of the action.

Pros:

• Walking distance to many attractions
• Endless food options
• Vibrant nightlife

Cons:

• Can be noisy
• Very busy, especially on weekends

Hotel Recommendations:

• Hanoi La Siesta Hotel & Spa: Luxury boutique hotel with excellent service
• The Chi Novel Boutique Hotel: Mid-range option with a great rooftop bar

French Quarter

Elegant and less hectic than the Old Quarter, perfect for those who appreciate colonial architecture and a more relaxed vibe.

Pros:

• Quieter than the Old Quarter
• Beautiful architecture
• High-end hotels and restaurants

Cons:

• More expensive
• Fewer budget accommodation options

Hotel Recommendations:

• Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi: Historic luxury hotel, a destination in itself
• La Siesta Premium Hang Be: Stylish mid-range option with a great location

Tay Ho (West Lake)

An expat favorite, offering a more laid-back atmosphere and stunning lake views.

Pros:

• Peaceful environment
• Great for longer stays
• Lots of international restaurants

Cons:

• Further from main attractions
• Fewer budget options

Hotel Recommendations:

• InterContinental Hanoi Westlake: Luxury option right on the lake
• The Hanoi Club Hotel & Lake Palais Residences: Mid-range hotel with great facilities

For first-time visitors spending 3 days in Hanoi, I'd recommend staying in the Old Quarter. Yes, it's busy, but it's also where you'll find the heart and soul of the city. Plus, being able to step out of your hotel and immediately be immersed in Hanoi's vibrant street life is an experience you won't forget.

Now that we've covered the basics, are you ready to dive into your 3-day Hanoi adventure? Let's go!

Day 1: Old Quarter Immersion and Cultural Gems

Rise and shine, it's time to kick off your Hanoi adventure! Today we're diving headfirst into the chaotic charm of the Old Quarter and soaking up some of Hanoi's most iconic cultural experiences. Get ready for a day of sensory overload in the best possible way.

We're starting in the Old Quarter for two reasons. First, it's likely where you're staying (and if not, it's easy to get to). Second, there's no better introduction to Hanoi's unique energy. By the end of today, you'll have your bearings and be ready to explore further afield.

Wander the Old Quarter

Your first stop is the heart of Hanoi itself - the Old Quarter. This maze of 36 streets, each traditionally dedicated to a specific trade, is where you'll get your first real taste of the city.

As you step out onto the streets, you're immediately enveloped in a whirlwind of sights, sounds, and smells. Motorbikes zip past, street vendors call out their wares, and the aroma of pho and coffee wafts from tiny restaurants and cafes. It's chaotic, yes, but there's a rhythm to it that you'll soon find yourself falling into.

Start your exploration on Hang Bac street, known for its silver jewelers. From there, wander down Hang Gai for silk products, Hang Quat for religious items and traditional crafts, and Hang Ma for colorful paper products. Don't worry about getting lost - that's half the fun!

As you explore, keep an eye out for the narrow "tube houses". These tall, skinny buildings are a unique architectural feature of the Old Quarter, designed to avoid taxes once based on the width of a building's street frontage.

Why Visit: The Old Quarter is the living, breathing heart of Hanoi. It's where history and modernity collide in the most fascinating ways.

Insider Tip: The early bird catches the worm (and avoids the heat). Start your wandering around 7-8am to see the neighborhood come to life and beat the midday sun.

• Location: Central Hanoi
• Hours: Always open, but most shops operate from around 9am to 8pm
• Admission: Free

Join a Street Food Tour

After working up an appetite exploring the Old Quarter, it's time for a culinary adventure. And what better way to dive into Hanoi's food scene than with a guided street food tour?

I was a bit hesitant about the idea of a food tour at first (I usually prefer to explore on my own), but Sarah convinced me to give it a try. I'm so glad she did! Our guide, a local university student named Linh, took us to places we never would have found on our own and explained the history and culture behind each dish.

We started with a steaming bowl of pho at a tiny street-side stall that's been run by the same family for generations. The rich broth, tender beef, and fresh herbs were a perfect introduction to Vietnamese cuisine. From there, we sampled banh mi (Vietnamese sandwiches), bun cha (grilled pork with noodles), and my personal favorite, egg coffee - a Hanoi specialty that's more like a dessert than a drink.

One of the highlights was trying banh cuon, delicate rice rolls filled with ground pork and wood ear mushrooms. Watching the vendor skillfully make the paper-thin rice sheets was mesmerizing.

Why Visit: Food is an integral part of Vietnamese culture, and there's no better way to understand it than through a guided tour.

Insider Tip: Come hungry and pace yourself. There's a lot to try!

• Location: Various locations in the Old Quarter
• Hours: Tours typically run for 3-4 hours, often in the morning or evening
• Price: Around $20-$40 per person

Explore Hoan Kiem Lake and Ngoc Son Temple

After your food tour, take a leisurely stroll to Hoan Kiem Lake, the centerpiece of Hanoi. Legend has it that in the 15th century, a giant golden turtle god surfaced here to reclaim a magical sword that had been given to Emperor Le Loi to defeat Chinese invaders. Today, it's a peaceful oasis in the heart of the bustling city.

Walk around the lake, watching locals practice tai chi or play chess. If you're lucky, you might even spot one of the lake's famous giant softshell turtles (though sightings are rare these days).

In the middle of the lake, connected by the striking red Huc Bridge, is Ngoc Son Temple. This picturesque temple, dedicated to war hero Tran Hung Dao, scholar Van Xuong, and Confucian master Nguyen Van Sieu, is well worth a visit.

Inside, you'll find ornate architecture, ancient artifacts, and if you're fortunate, you might catch a calligraphy master at work. The temple's peaceful atmosphere provides a welcome respite from the busy streets.

Why Visit: Hoan Kiem Lake is the heart of Hanoi, both geographically and spiritually. It's a perfect place to relax and people-watch.

Insider Tip: Visit early in the morning to see locals doing their daily exercises, or come at sunset for beautiful views.

• Location: Hoan Kiem District, Central Hanoi
• Hours: Ngoc Son Temple is open from 8am to 6pm daily
• Admission: 30,000 VND for Ngoc Son Temple

Watch a Water Puppet Show

To cap off your first day in Hanoi, head to the Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre for a uniquely Vietnamese experience. Water puppetry is an art form that dates back to the 11th century when villagers would entertain each other when the rice fields flooded.

The show tells folk tales and legends through colorful wooden puppets that seem to dance on the water's surface. The puppeteers stand waist-deep in water behind a screen, skillfully manipulating the puppets using long bamboo rods.

I'll admit, I was skeptical about this at first (puppets aren't usually my thing), but the skill of the puppeteers and the live traditional music won me over. It's a whimsical, uniquely Vietnamese experience that's fun for all ages.

Why Visit: It's a chance to experience a traditional Vietnamese art form in a fun, accessible way.

Insider Tip: Book your tickets in advance, especially during peak tourist season. The theatre is small and shows often sell out.

• Location: 57B Dinh Tien Hoang Street, Hoan Kiem District
• Show Times: Several shows daily, typically at 3pm, 4:10pm, 5:20pm, 6:30pm, and 8pm
• Admission: 100,000 VND for adults, 60,000 VND for children

Dinner at Cha Ca La Vong

After the puppet show, it's time for a quintessential Hanoi dining experience at Cha Ca La Vong. This restaurant has been serving one dish - cha ca - for over 100 years, and they've perfected it.

Cha ca is a theatrical dish of fish fillet seasoned with turmeric and dill, cooked tableside on a sizzling pan. You'll be provided with herbs, rice noodles, peanuts, and a fermented shrimp sauce to mix with the fish to your liking.

The restaurant itself is basic - think simple wooden tables and plastic stools - but the food more than makes up for it. It's a bit pricier than your average Hanoi meal, but the unique flavors and experience are worth it.

Why Visit: It's a chance to try a Hanoi specialty in the place where it was invented.

Insider Tip: If you're not a fan of strong fishy flavors, this might not be for you. In that case, head to Bun Cha Huong Lien instead - it's where Anthony Bourdain famously dined with President Obama.

• Location: 14 Cha Ca Street, Hoan Kiem District
• Hours: 11am-2pm, 5pm-9pm daily
• Price: Around 200,000 VND per person

Day 2: History and Local Life

Good morning, Hanoi explorers! Today we're diving into Vietnam's rich history and getting a taste of local life. We'll be covering quite a bit of ground, so fuel up with a strong Vietnamese coffee and let's get going!

We're structuring today around some of Hanoi's most significant historical sites. These places offer fascinating insights into Vietnam's past and help put into context the vibrant, rapidly developing country you see today. We'll balance out the history lessons with some modern local experiences to give you a well-rounded view of the city.

Visit Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and Museum

Start your day early with a visit to the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, the final resting place of Vietnam's revolutionary leader. The imposing structure dominates Ba Dinh Square, where Ho Chi Minh read the Declaration of Independence in 1945.

The atmosphere here is solemn and respectful. You'll join a quiet, orderly line of visitors moving through the cool, dimly lit interior to view Ho Chi Minh's embalmed body. It's a surreal experience, but one that provides insight into how revered "Uncle Ho" remains in Vietnam.

After exiting the mausoleum, take some time to explore the grounds. The presidential palace and Ho Chi Minh's stilt house offer a glimpse into the modest lifestyle of the man who could have lived in luxury but chose simplicity.

Next, head to the nearby Ho Chi Minh Museum. While the mausoleum is austere, the museum is anything but. It's a fascinating mix of propaganda, history, and eclectic exhibits that range from straightforward artifacts to abstract artistic interpretations of Ho Chi Minh's life and ideas.

Why Visit: It's a chance to understand the man who shaped modern Vietnam and to experience a unique aspect of Vietnamese culture.

Insider Tip: Dress modestly (shoulders and knees covered) and be prepared to check your bags. Photography is strictly forbidden inside the mausoleum.

• Location: 2 Hung Vuong, Dien Bien, Ba Dinh
• Hours: Tuesday to Thursday: 7:30am-10:30am; Saturday and Sunday: 7:30am-11am (closed Monday and Friday)
• Admission: Free for the mausoleum, 40,000 VND for the museum

Lunch at Bun Cha Huong Lien

After your morning of history, it's time for a taste of modern Hanoi fame. Head to Bun Cha Huong Lien, now affectionately known as "Bun Cha Obama" after the former US President dined here with Anthony Bourdain in 2016.

Bun cha is a Hanoi specialty of grilled pork served with rice noodles, herbs, and a tangy dipping sauce. At Huong Lien, you can order the "Combo Obama" - the exact meal shared by Obama and Bourdain, which includes bun cha, nem cua be (seafood spring rolls), and a Hanoi beer.

The restaurant is nothing fancy - it's a typical local joint with simple decor and plastic stools. But the food is fantastic, and there's something special about enjoying the same meal as a former US President in the same unassuming local spot.

Why Visit: It's a chance to try a Hanoi specialty with a side of pop culture history.

Insider Tip: It can get busy, especially around lunchtime. If you're willing to eat a little early or late, you'll have a better chance of snagging a table quickly.

• Location: 24 Le Van Huu, Phan Chu Trinh, Hai Ba Trung
• Hours: 8am-9pm daily
• Price: Around 100,000 VND for the "Combo Obama"

Explore the Temple of Literature

After lunch, make your way to the Temple of Literature, Vietnam's first national university. Founded in 1070, this beautifully preserved example of traditional Vietnamese architecture was dedicated to Confucius and served as an elite school for mandarins.

As you walk through the series of courtyards, you'll see ancient stelae mounted on stone turtles, each recording the names and achievements of successful graduates. The quiet gardens and picturesque pavilions offer a peaceful retreat from the busy streets outside.

Don't miss the statue of Confucius and the altars where students would make offerings before their exams. If you're lucky, you might catch a calligraphy master at work or even a traditional music performance in one of the courtyards.

Why Visit: It's a beautifully preserved piece of Vietnam's history and a testament to the country's long-standing respect for education and literature.

Insider Tip: Look out for the wishing trees in the

fourth courtyard. Students often tie ribbons to these trees for good luck in their studies.

• Location: 58 Quoc Tu Giam, Van Mieu, Dong Da
• Hours: 8am-5pm daily (closed Monday afternoons)
• Admission: 30,000 VND

Visit the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology

Next, take a Grab to the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology. While it's a bit out of the way, this museum offers fascinating insights into Vietnam's 54 recognized ethnic groups.

The indoor exhibits showcase traditional clothing, tools, and artifacts from various ethnic minorities, along with detailed explanations in English. But the real highlight is the outdoor area, where you can explore full-size replicas of traditional homes from different regions of Vietnam.

From the stilted houses of the Tay people to the impressive Bahnar communal house, these structures give you a tangible sense of the diversity of Vietnam's cultures. You can even climb inside many of them for a closer look.

Why Visit: It's an excellent way to understand the cultural diversity of Vietnam beyond just Hanoi.

Insider Tip: Don't rush through the indoor exhibits - the details and stories provided are fascinating and really bring the artifacts to life.

• Location: Nguyen Van Huyen, Quan Hoa, Cau Giay
• Hours: 8:30am-5:30pm (closed Mondays)
• Admission: 40,000 VND

Experience Hanoi Train Street

As the afternoon winds down, head back towards the Old Quarter to experience one of Hanoi's more unusual attractions: Train Street. This narrow residential street has houses built unusually close to active train tracks, creating a unique (and somewhat nerve-wracking) spectacle when trains pass by.

While the "official" Train Street has been closed to tourists due to safety concerns, you can still get a taste of the experience at the section near Le Duan Street. Trains pass by a few times a day, and in between, you can enjoy a drink at one of the trackside cafes.

Please be respectful of the residents and follow any safety instructions from local authorities. Remember, this is an active railway, not a tourist attraction.

Why Visit: It's a unique glimpse into how some Hanoi residents live alongside the railway.

Insider Tip: Check train times in advance and arrive about 30 minutes early to secure a good viewing spot.

• Location: Ngo 224 Le Duan, Kham Thien, Dong Da
• Hours: Always accessible, but check train schedules for the best experience
• Admission: Free

Craft Beer Tasting

To cap off your day of history and local experiences, dive into Hanoi's burgeoning craft beer scene. While Vietnam is famous for its light lagers like Bia Hoi, there's a growing community of craft brewers creating unique, flavorful beers.

Head to Standing Bar, a taproom featuring a rotating selection of Vietnamese craft beers. With 19 taps featuring brews from across the country, it's the perfect place to sample the diversity of Vietnam's craft beer scene. Try a fruity Pho beer from Furbrew or a strong Imperial Stout from Pasteur Street Brewing.

The bar also offers great views over Truc Bach Lake, making it a pleasant spot to relax after a full day of exploring.

Why Visit: It's a chance to experience a different side of Vietnam's drinking culture and support local brewers.

Insider Tip: If you're not sure what to try, ask for a tasting flight. The staff are knowledgeable and happy to guide you through the selections.

• Location: 170 Tran Vu, Truc Bach, Ba Dinh
• Hours: 4pm-11:30pm daily
• Price: 70,000-100,000 VND per beer

Day 3: Art, Nature, and Modern Hanoi

Welcome to your final day in Hanoi! Today we're going to explore some of the city's artistic side, enjoy its natural beauty, and experience a bit of modern Hanoi. This day is designed to be a bit more relaxed, allowing you to soak in the atmosphere and maybe do some last-minute shopping before you leave.

We've structured today to show you a different side of Hanoi. While the first two days focused on history and traditional culture, today is about seeing how Hanoi is evolving and changing. It's a chance to understand the city as a dynamic, growing place rather than just a historical artifact.

Visit Tran Quoc Pagoda

Start your day with a visit to Tran Quoc Pagoda, the oldest Buddhist temple in Hanoi. Located on a small island in West Lake, this 1,450-year-old pagoda is a serene spot to begin your morning.

The pagoda's red-lacquered architecture is beautiful, with intricate carvings and sculptures throughout. Climb to the top of the 11-story pagoda for panoramic views of the lake and surrounding area. If you're lucky, you might catch monks chanting their morning prayers.

Take some time to stroll around the grounds, enjoying the peaceful atmosphere and the many bodhi trees (grown from a cutting of the original tree under which Buddha achieved enlightenment).

Why Visit: It's a beautiful example of Buddhist architecture and a peaceful start to your day.

Insider Tip: Visit early in the morning to avoid the crowds and enjoy the serene atmosphere at its best.

• Location: Thanh Nien Road, Truc Bach, Ba Dinh
• Hours: 7:30am-6pm daily
• Admission: Free

Explore West Lake

After visiting the pagoda, take a leisurely walk along the shores of West Lake, Hanoi's largest freshwater lake. This area is popular with expats and affluent locals, giving it a different vibe from the Old Quarter.

You'll find a mix of high-end restaurants, cute cafes, and local seafood joints along the lake. If you're feeling active, you can rent a swan paddle boat for a spin on the lake. Or simply find a lakeside cafe and enjoy a Vietnamese coffee while people-watching.

Keep an eye out for the Lotus Flower Garden near the northern shore. If you're visiting in summer, you might catch the gorgeous lotus blooms.

Why Visit: It's a chance to see a different, more modern side of Hanoi and enjoy some natural beauty.

Insider Tip: For a unique experience, try a fish pedicure at one of the lakeside spas. Tiny fish nibble the dead skin off your feet - it tickles at first but leaves your feet feeling incredibly soft!

• Location: Tay Ho District
• Hours: Always accessible
• Admission: Free (activities like boat rental will have separate fees)

Lunch at Monsoon Restaurant

For lunch, treat yourself to a meal at Monsoon Restaurant. This stylish eatery offers a modern take on Vietnamese cuisine, with influences from other Southeast Asian countries.

The menu changes seasonally, but you might find dishes like caramelized clay pot fish, banana blossom salad, or Vietnamese-style beef tartare. The restaurant also offers excellent vegetarian options.

The decor is sleek and modern, with large windows offering views of a small garden. It's a great place to relax and refuel for your afternoon of art and shopping.

Why Visit: It's a chance to try elevated Vietnamese cuisine in a stylish setting.

Insider Tip: Save room for dessert - their che (Vietnamese sweet soup) is excellent.

• Location: 72 Xuan Dieu, Tay Ho
• Hours: 11am-10pm daily
• Price: 300,000-500,000 VND per person

Visit the Vietnam Fine Arts Museum

After lunch, make your way to the Vietnam Fine Arts Museum. Housed in a beautiful colonial-era building, this museum offers a comprehensive look at Vietnamese art from prehistoric times to the present day.

The collection includes everything from ancient sculptures and traditional folk art to modern and contemporary works. Don't miss the lacquer paintings, a uniquely Vietnamese art form that uses the sap of the son tree to create glossy, durable works of art.

The museum does an excellent job of putting the artworks in historical and cultural context, helping you understand the evolution of Vietnamese art over time.

Why Visit: It's a chance to see how art has reflected and shaped Vietnamese culture throughout history.

Insider Tip: Look out for propaganda art from the war years - it's a fascinating glimpse into how art was used to mobilize the population.

• Location: 66 Nguyen Thai Hoc, Ba Dinh
• Hours: 8:30am-5pm (closed Mondays)
• Admission: 40,000 VND

Shop at Tan My Design

Now that you've been inspired by Vietnamese art, it's time for some shopping! Head to Tan My Design, a beautifully curated boutique showcasing the best of modern Vietnamese design.

From hand-embroidered linens and silk scarves to contemporary lacquerware and ceramics, Tan My Design offers high-quality souvenirs that go beyond the typical tourist trinkets. The shop works with both established and up-and-coming Vietnamese designers, so you're supporting local artisans with your purchases.

Even if you're not looking to buy, it's worth a visit just to admire the beautifully displayed goods and get a sense of Vietnam's evolving design scene.

Why Visit: It's a great place to find unique, high-quality souvenirs and gifts.

Insider Tip: The shop can arrange shipping if you find something you love but can't fit in your luggage.

• Location: 61 Hang Gai, Hoan Kiem
• Hours: 9am-9pm daily
• Price: Varies, but expect higher prices than typical souvenir shops

Sunset Cocktails at Skyline Hanoi

As your Hanoi adventure comes to a close, head up to Skyline Hanoi for sunset cocktails with a view. Located on the 65th floor of the Lotte Center, this bar offers panoramic views of the city.

Arrive a bit before sunset to snag a good spot. As the sun dips below the horizon, you'll see Hanoi transform from a bustling daytime metropolis to a glittering sea of lights. It's a magical way to say goodbye to the city.

The cocktail menu features both classic and innovative drinks, often with a Vietnamese twist. Try the Hanoi Sour, made with local rice wine, or the Pho cocktail, inspired by Vietnam's famous noodle soup.

Why Visit: The views are unparalleled, and it's a stylish way to cap off your Hanoi experience.

Insider Tip: If you're not into cocktails, they also offer a good selection of wines and beers. The bar snacks are pretty good too!

• Location: 65th floor, Lotte Center, 54 Lieu Giai, Ba Dinh
• Hours: 11am-11pm daily
• Price: 200,000-300,000 VND per cocktail

Farewell Dinner at Uu Dam Chay

For your final dinner in Hanoi, let's try something a bit different. Uu Dam Chay is a high-end vegetarian restaurant that showcases the best of Vietnamese vegetarian cuisine.

Now, I know what you're thinking - vegetarian food in Vietnam? Trust me, it's incredible. Vietnamese Buddhist cuisine has a long tradition of creating delicious meatless dishes, and Uu Dam Chay elevates this to an art form.

The menu changes seasonally, but you might find dishes like jackfruit "crab" cakes, lotus root salad, or mushroom "pork" ribs. The presentation is beautiful, and the flavors are complex and satisfying even for committed carnivores.

The restaurant itself is stunning, with a serene, zen-like atmosphere. It's the perfect place to reflect on your Hanoi experiences and toast to a successful trip.

Why Visit: It's a chance to experience a different side of Vietnamese cuisine in a beautiful setting.

Insider Tip: Try the tasting menu for a well-rounded experience of their best dishes.

• Location: 34 Hang Bai, Hoan Kiem
• Hours: 10am-10pm daily
• Price: 400,000-600,000 VND per person

Alternative Itinerary for Time-Crunched Travelers

If you're short on time and can only spend 2 days in Hanoi, here's a condensed itinerary hitting the absolute must-see attractions:

Day 1: Old Quarter and Cultural Highlights

• Morning: Old Quarter walking tour
• Lunch: Quick Banh Mi at Banh Mi 25
• Afternoon: Hoan Kiem Lake and Ngoc Son Temple
• Evening: Water Puppet Show followed by dinner at Cha Ca La Vong

Day 2: History and Modern Hanoi

• Morning: Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and Museum
• Lunch: Bun Cha at Bun Cha Huong Lien
• Afternoon: Temple of Literature
• Evening: Sunset drinks at Skyline Hanoi

This compressed itinerary ensures you see Hanoi's main attractions while still getting a taste of its culture and cuisine. However, if you can manage it, I really recommend staying the full 3 days to fully appreciate all that Hanoi has to offer.

Day Trip Options

If you have an extra day in Hanoi, consider taking a day trip to one of these nearby attractions:

1. Ha Long Bay: This UNESCO World Heritage site is famous for its emerald waters and thousands of towering limestone islands topped by rainforests. It's about a 4-hour drive from Hanoi, so it makes for a long day, but the views are worth it. Many tour operators offer day trips from Hanoi.
2. Sapa: Known for its terraced rice fields and ethnic minority villages, Sapa offers a glimpse into rural Vietnamese life. It's a bit far for a day trip (6-hour train ride), so consider an overnight stay if you have the time.
3. Ninh Binh: Often called "Ha Long Bay on land," Ninh Binh features stunning limestone karsts rising out of rice paddies. It's about 2 hours from Hanoi and makes for a manageable day trip.
4. Perfume Pagoda: This vast complex of Buddhist temples and shrines built into the limestone Huong Tich mountains is a popular pilgrimage site. It's about 60km southwest of Hanoi and can be visited in a day.

Remember, while these are all incredible places, they do require significant travel time. If you only have 3 days in Hanoi, I'd recommend sticking to the city to really soak in its unique atmosphere.

My 3 Days in Hanoi

As our Grab pulled away from our hotel on that final morning, Sarah and I found ourselves already planning our return trip. Three days in Hanoi had flown by in a whirlwind of new sights, sounds, and tastes. We'd barely scratched the surface of what this incredible city has to offer.

Hanoi is a city of contrasts. It's where ancient traditions meet rapid modernization, where the quiet of a centuries-old temple is just steps away from the organized chaos of streets teeming with motorbikes. It's a place where you can start your day with a bowl of pho at a tiny street-side stall and end it sipping cocktails in a sleek rooftop bar.

In just three days, we'd wandered through history in the Old Quarter, paid our respects to Uncle Ho, feasted on incredible street food, and watched the sun set over West Lake. We'd learned about Vietnam's past and gotten a glimpse of its exciting future.

But more than the sights we saw or the food we ate, what will stay with me is the spirit of Hanoi. The friendliness of the people, their pride in their city and culture, and their optimism for the future. It's a city that gets under your skin, in the best possible way.

So, is 3 days in Hanoi enough? It's enough to fall in love with the city, to get a taste of its unique charm. But it's also enough to make you want to come back for more.

Whether you're a history buff, a foodie, an art lover, or just someone who enjoys exploring new cultures, Hanoi has something for you. So pack your bags, bring your sense of adventure, and prepare to be charmed by this captivating city. Hanoi is waiting to welcome you!