What to Do in Hanoi for 3 Days: A Complete Travel Guide
Hanoi, the bustling capital of Vietnam, is a city that seamlessly blends tradition and modernity. With its rich history, vibrant culture, and mouth-watering cuisine, Hanoi offers a plethora of experiences for travelers. If you’re planning a short visit, this 3-day itinerary will guide you through some of the most exciting things to do in Hanoi, including Hanoi Train Street, Hanoi Old Quarter, Dong Xuan Market, and Hanoi Beer Street, along with visits to significant museums.
Top Things to Do in Hanoi: A 3-Day Guide
Day 1: Exploring Hanoi’s Culture and History
Morning: Ho Chi Minh’s Mausoleum
Start your adventure by visiting Ho Chi Minh’s Mausoleum (Địa chỉ: 2 Hùng Vương, Điện Bàn, Ba Đình, Hà Nội). This revered site is where the body of Vietnam’s founding father rests. This iconic landmark is not only a tribute to Ho Chi Minh but also a glimpse into Vietnam’s history. Be sure to arrive early to avoid long queues and check the visiting hours in advance.
Ticket Price: Free (must have identification for entry)
Opening Hours: 7:30 AM – 10:30 AM (Tuesday to Sunday)
- Breakfast Option
Banh Mi 25
Address: 25 Hang Ca, Ly Thai To, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi
Price: 20,000 – 50,000 VND
Review: Banh Mi 25 is famous for its crispy bread, generous fillings, and delicious sauce. This place attracts both tourists and locals.
Afternoon: Vietnam Museum of Ethnology
After paying your respects, head to the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology (. This museum showcases the diverse cultures of Vietnam’s ethnic groups through engaging exhibits and artifacts. It’s a fantastic way to understand the rich tapestry of Vietnamese society. Allocate a couple of hours to explore the outdoor space as well, which features traditional houses.
Address: No 1, Nguyen Van Huyen Street, Cau Giay District, Hanoi
Ticket Price: 40,000 VND (adults), 10,000 VND (children)
Opening Hours: 8:30 AM – 5:30 PM (Tuesday to Sunday)
- Lunch Option
Pho Gia Truyen Bat Dan
Address: 49 Bat Dan, Cua Dong, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi
Price: 40,000 – 70,000 VND
Review: The pho here is made using a traditional recipe, with clear, sweet broth and soft rice noodles. Definitely worth trying.
Evening: Strolling Through Hanoi Old Quarter
As the sun sets, take a leisurely stroll through the Hanoi Old Quarter (Địa chỉ: Hàng Buồm, Hoàn Kiếm, Hà Nội). This area is famous for its narrow streets, colonial architecture, and vibrant street life. Dive into the local street food scene, sampling dishes like pho and banh mi. Consider joining a walking tour to learn about the history of the Old Quarter and its cultural significance.
Ticket Price: Free (walking)
- Dinner Option
Cha Ca La Vong
Address: 14 Cha Ca, Le Dai Hanh, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi
Price: 100,000 – 200,000 VND
Review: Hanoi’s famous grilled fish dish is freshly prepared, served with rice noodles and herbs, offering a distinctive and flavorful taste.
Day 2: Adventure and Local Markets
Morning: Hanoi Train Street Adventure
Kick off your day with an adventure at Hanoi Train Street (Địa chỉ: 56 Phố Trần Phú, Cửa Đông, Hoàn Kiếm, Hà Nội). Here, you can witness trains passing through narrow alleys, creating a unique experience. Enjoy a cup of coffee at one of the local cafes while soaking in the atmosphere. Early morning is the best time to avoid crowds and get the perfect view.
Ticket Price: Free (coffee prices from 30,000 VND and up)
- Breakfast Option
Cafe NOLA
Address: 3 Au Trieu Street, Hang Trong, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi
Price: 30,000 – 60,000 VND
Review: Cafe NOLA offers a cozy space with great coffee and fresh pastries, making it a perfect place to start your day.
Afternoon: Dong Xuan Market
Next, head to Dong Xuan Market (Địa chỉ: Đông Xuân, Hoàn Kiếm, Hà Nội), one of the largest markets in Hanoi. This bustling marketplace is perfect for shopping and sampling local snacks. Be prepared to bargain, as haggling is part of the experience. From clothes to household items, you’ll find a variety of goods at reasonable prices.
Ticket Price: Free (shopping depends on your preference)
- Lunch Option
Bun Cha Huong Lien
Address: 24 Le Van Huu Street, Hai Ba Trung, Hanoi
Price: 40,000 – 80,000 VND
Review: Famous for its Bun Cha, this restaurant attracts many diners with its flavorful dipping sauce and deliciously grilled meat.
Evening: Hanoi Beer Street
As night falls, make your way to Hanoi Beer Street (Địa chỉ: 1 Phố Tạ Hiện, Hàng Buồm, Hoàn Kiếm, Hà Nội). This lively street is filled with bars and food stalls, offering cheap local beers and delicious street food. Grab a plastic chair and enjoy the vibrant nightlife, mingling with locals and fellow travelers. Just be mindful of your belongings, as it can get crowded.
Giá vé:Free (beer prices start from 15,000 VND)
- Dinner Option
Street Food Stalls
Address: Ta Hien Street, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi
Price: 20,000 – 100,000 VND (depending on the dish)
Review: The street food stalls here offer a variety of specialties such as fried fermented pork rolls, spring rolls, and fresh seafood. A must-try culinary experience!
Day 3: Museums and Relaxation
Morning: Hoa Lo Prison
On your final day, visit Hoa Lo Prison (Địa chỉ: 1 Hỏa Lò, Trần Hưng Đạo, Hoàn Kiếm, Hà Nội), also known as the “Hanoi Hilton.” This historical site provides insight into Vietnam’s struggle for independence and the American War. The exhibits are thought-provoking, making it a must-see for history buffs.
Ticket Price: 30,000 VND (adults), 15,000 VND (children)
Opening Hours: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Monday to Sunday)
- Breakfast Option
Bánh Cuốn Gia Truyền
Address: 14 Thuy Khue, Tay Ho, Hanoi
Price: 25,000 – 50,000 VND
Review: The bánh cuốn here is soft and delicious, typically served with Vietnamese pork sausage (chả lụa) and a flavorful dipping sauce.
Afternoon: Additional Museums or Activities
Depending on your interests, consider visiting additional museums such as the Vietnam Fine Arts Museum (Địa chỉ: 66 Nguyễn Thái Học, Ba Đình, Hà Nội) or simply relaxing in one of Hanoi’s many cafés. If you have any favorite spots from the previous days, this is the perfect time to revisit them.
Ticket Price: Vietnam Fine Arts Museum: 40,000 VND (adults), 10,000 VND (children)
- Lunch Option:
Cơm Vinh
Address: 85 Hàng Bồ, Hoàn Kiếm, Hà Nội
Price: 50,000 – 100,000 VND
Review: This restaurant serves delicious rice dishes with a variety of flavorful options, making it a great choice for lunch in Hanoi.
Tips and Advice for Visiting Hanoi
- Plan Your Itinerary: Prioritize must-see attractions like the Old Quarter, museums, and street food stalls to make the most of your time.
- Stay Hydrated: The heat and humidity can be intense, so always carry water to stay refreshed.
- Dress Comfortably: Opt for lightweight, breathable clothing and comfortable shoes for a day of exploring.
- Use Local Transportation: Utilize taxis or bike rentals for convenient navigation around the city.
- Try Local Cuisine: Indulge in iconic dishes like phở and bánh mì at local eateries for an authentic culinary experience.
- Bargain at Markets: When shopping at places like Dong Xuan Market, practice negotiating prices to get the best deals.
- Stay Aware of Your Belongings: Use a crossbody bag and keep your valuables secure to avoid pickpockets, especially in crowded areas.
These tips will help ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip to Hanoi!
Conclusion
Hanoi offers a rich blend of history, culture, and delicious food. With our three-day itinerary, you can fully enjoy the city’s charm, from the bustling Old Quarter to serene museums. Don’t miss the chance to savor local delicacies and experience what Hanoi has to offer.
Ready to explore Hanoi? Start planning your trip today and share your favorite spots with us!
