5 Days in Hanoi: History, Street Food, and Culture Itinerary

Begin your day with a peaceful walk around the picturesque Hoan Kiem Lake and a visit to the nearby Ngoc Son Temple. Explore the grandeur of the St Joseph’s Cathedral and the historic Long Bien Bridge.

For lunch, enjoy the famous Bun Bo Nam Bo, a delicious and light noodle dish. Afterward, delve into the rich history of Vietnam at the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology. In the afternoon, take a leisurely Hanoi City Sightseeing Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour to visit various landmarks with the flexibility to explore at your own pace.

As the sun sets, take a stroll around the vibrant Hanoi Old Quarter and have dinner at Banh Mi 25, known for its delectable Vietnamese sandwiches. End your day with a rooftop drink at Cau Go Vietnamese Cuisine Restaurant, overlooking the city.

Embark on a full-day trip to Ninh Binh to explore the stunning natural landscapes. Visit the ancient capital of Hoa Lu and take a boat ride through the majestic Trang An Landscape Complex, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Enjoy a local lunch in Ninh Binh and continue your exploration with a visit to the impressive Bai Dinh Pagoda and the panoramic views from Mua Cave. Return to Hanoi in the late afternoon.

For dinner, try the famous Cha Ca Thang Long, a Hanoi specialty of grilled fish with turmeric and dill. Relax in the evening at a local bar or cafe in the Old Quarter.

Spend your morning exploring the vibrant art scene of Hanoi. Visit the Hanoi Opera House, a beautiful example of French colonial architecture. Explore the local art galleries and boutiques in the West Lake area.

For lunch, enjoy a meal at the artistic Green Tangerine, a restaurant set in a colonial villa. Visit the Vietnam Fine Arts Museum to admire a collection of traditional and contemporary Vietnamese art. Take a leisurely walk around the serene Temple of the Jade Mountain.

Indulge in a fine dining experience at La Verticale, known for its French-Indochine cuisine. After dinner, take a leisurely walk around the French Quarter and enjoy the beautiful architecture of the old colonial buildings.

Start your day with a hands-on experience at the Hanoi Vietnamese Coffee Workshop at the Su Quan Roastery. Learn about the art of making traditional Vietnamese coffee and enjoy a freshly brewed cup.

For your final meal in Hanoi, savor the flavors of Sen Tay Ho Restaurant, known for its authentic Vietnamese cuisine. After lunch, take a leisurely walk around the West Lake and visit the Tran Quoc Pagoda, the oldest pagoda in Hanoi.

Conclude your trip with a relaxing Hanoi Water Puppet Show and a farewell dinner at Madame Hien, a restaurant that offers a modern twist on traditional Vietnamese dishes. Reflect on your time in Hanoi and enjoy a leisurely evening in the city.