Hanoi Trip Planner

The beating heart of Hanoi. Walk the perimeter at sunrise when locals do tai chi. Cross the red Huc Bridge to Ngoc Son Temple.

36 ancient trading streets, each originally selling one trade. Best on foot. Go one block off Ta Hien Beer Street to escape the crowds.

Vietnam's first university, founded 1070. Five tranquil courtyards. Uncrowded on weekday mornings. Allow 90 minutes.

Solemn and powerful. Dress conservatively (covered knees and shoulders). Closed Mon/Fri mornings and around Sep–Oct annually for maintenance.

Hanoi's oldest pagoda (6th century) on a tiny island in West Lake. Spectacular at golden hour. The café strip around the lake is perfect for an evening.

54 ethnic minorities, outdoor traditional structures, excellent English signage. One of Southeast Asia's finest museums. Budget 2–3 hours.

Ha Long Bay on dry land — limestone karsts, Tam Coc boat ride through rice paddies, cliff pagoda. Book a private driver for the day (~$40–50).

The iconic seascape. Book a 2D/1N cruise — day trips are too rushed. Consider Lan Ha Bay for fewer tourist boats.

Cool mountain air, Hmong and Dao hill tribes, terraced rice paddies. Total contrast to Hanoi heat. Overnight train is an experience itself.

Vietnam's former imperial capital. Imperial Citadel, royal tombs, Thien Mu Pagoda. Combine with Da Nang / Hoi An for a central Vietnam loop.

Where Obama ate with Anthony Bourdain in 2016. Grilled pork patties + rice noodles.

Legendary bowl. Stir-fried beef, different from southern pho. Queue before 8am.

Hanoi's own invention. Rich, sweet, unlike anything else. Try it hot first.

Proper fillings, not a tourist-trap version. Near the Old Quarter.

150-year-old institution. Turmeric-marinated fish grilled at your table. Book ahead.

Crab and tomato noodle soup. The best Hanoi breakfast. Follow the locals.