3 Days in Hanoi: Your perfect itinerary through Vietnam’s capital.
People-watching in Hanoi’s Old Quarter is a travel experience like no other…
Non-stop chaos… And that’s just one corner of the Vietnamese capital.
If you're planning a trip and wondering “is 3 days in Hanoi enough?”, or just trying to make sense of the culture, traffic, and food, this itinerary’s got you.
I spent 3 full days in Hanoi…
Exploring the Old Quarter, sipping egg coffee by Hoan Kiem Lake, perching on plastic stools for bún chả, and cruising through limestone cliffs on a Ha Long Bay day trip.
Northern Vietnam seriously delivers.
This guide shows you how to spend 3 days in Hanoi:
Where to go, what to eat, how to move, and how to soak up the energy without burning out.
Whether you're backpacking Vietnam, passing through before Sapa or Ha Long, or just chasing the perfect Hanoi itinerary.. this one’s for you.
Let’s dive in.
A rare tranquil spot in the city.
Is 3 days in Hanoi enough? (Spoiler: Absolutely)
If you plan it right, 3 days in Hanoi gives you an authentic taste of the city, without feeling rushed.
I managed to visit major landmarks like Hoan Kiem Lake, Train Street, and the Old Quarter, along with trying iconic local food like bún chả and egg coffee.
I even squeezed in a full Ha Long Bay day trip.
Hanoi also works perfectly as a base for a northern Vietnam itinerary, with easy return trips from places like Sapa, Ninh Binh, or the mountains near Ha Giang.
One of many hectic spots in Hanoi.
What you’ll see in 72 hours.
In just three days, you will hit Hanoi’s must-sees and still have time for hidden gems, and a full-day escape to the coast. Expect a fast-paced but rewarding intro to Northern Vietnam
The Old Quarter - A maze of markets, street food, and motorbikes.
Instagram spots - Train Street, Hoan Kiem Lake, and the famous temples.
Local favourites — The best places for bún chả, bánh mì, and egg coffee.
A day trip to Ha Long Bay - A cruise at the iconic spot, with some adventure added.
Historical sites - Ho Chi Minh’s Mausoleum and Hoa Lo Prison.
Tranquil escapes - Ngoc Son Temple and peaceful laps around Hoan Kiem Lake.
You will get a strong feel for Hanoi’s culture, history, food scene, and chaotic charm, all without cutting too deep into your full Vietnam itinerary.
My favourite cafe in Hanoi.
Who this itinerary is perfect for.
This 3-day Hanoi itinerary is ideal for first-time visitors, backpackers, and travellers on a tight schedule who still want an authentic experience of the city.
It’s perfect if you’re using Hanoi as a base for a northern Vietnam route, or just stopping through on a wider Southeast Asia trip.
This guide’s for travellers who want to eat well, see the good stuff, and feel Hanoi’s energy , without wasting time, falling into tourist traps, or getting overwhelmed by the chaos.
Chilling in a cafe watching the world go by.
Day 1 – Exploring Hanoi’s Old Quarter and local life.
As I arrived at my hotel from the airport I fell in love with the organised madness in the centre of the capital.
It shouldn’t work, but it just does!
There’s no better place to start your Hanoi trip than in the heart of the chaos: the Old Quarter.
It's loud, lively, and packed with personality. My first taste of Northern Vietnam… and it was exactly what I came for.
From colourful street art and peaceful pagodas to that Instagram-famous Train Street, day one is stacked with unique travel moments.
By the end of it, you’ll see how these chaotic streets somehow work like magic.
The last days of the Shark Jaw building.
The Old Quarter.
If you’ve seen videos or photos of Hanoi’s chaos, chances are they were shot in the Old Quarter… The pulse of the city.
Scooters whizzing by… Locals slurping phở on plastic stools… The non-stop buzz of horns.
This is what travel is all about!
The Old Quarter is a full-on assault on the senses, in the best way.
It’s a maze of everything you picture when you think of Vietnam…
French colonial buildings leaning over narrow streets, locals wearing straw hats selling fruit from baskets, and tiny open faced cafes serving some truly unique egg coffees!
You don’t really need a plan on your first morning exploring the Old Quarter, as you will find so many hidden treasures naturally. I advise you to use a map and have some sort of idea, as it is very easy to get lost among the chaos.
A nice rooftop bar in the Old Quarter.
On my first evening in Hanoi, I wanted an authentic moment, so I headed over to a local restaurant, grabbed a stool, and ordered some bún chả… My favourite Vietnamese dish.
There’s no better way to feel the energy of the Vietnamese capital than getting completely lost in the Old Quarter.
Street scenes in the Old Quarter.
Souvenirs are everywhere in the Old Quarter.
Some culture displayed through street art.
One of my favourite ways to connect with a new city is through its street art, and Hanoi didn’t disappoint.
If you aren’t aware of some traditional Vietnamese cultural traditions, you can learn about them through the beautiful murals dotted across the city.
The most famous spot is Phùng Hưng Street, where the railway arches have been transformed into a vibrant outdoor gallery.
Phùng Hưng Street Mural Wall.
From historic scenes to quirky characters wearing nón lá (Vietnam’s traditional conical hats), the murals here mix old-school charm with modern vibes.
You will see many examples of local life showcased along Phùng Hưng Street, and it is a long street, so this is an awesome free activity to fill a morning with a coffee in hand
It’s free, photogenic, and full of personality. Don’t skip it.
More cultural street art.
A tranquil escape to Hoan Kiem Lake & Ngoc Son Temple.
After some time enjoying the chaos of the Old Quarter, I was ready for a change of pace, so headed over to Hoan Kiem Lake, just a short walk from the heart of the city.
It’s easy to see why it is one of Hanoi’s most iconic landmarks, with its peaceful vibe, picturesque setting, and central location.
Just metres from the madness, but it feels like a different world.
I walked the full 1-mile loop around the lake on both of my days in central Hanoi, to help burn off those sweet egg coffees… I had far too many!
On my first visit, I also crossed the bridge to explore Ngoc Son Temple, which sits right in the middle of the lake...
Hoan Kiem Lake is popular with locals and tourists.
Ngọc Sơn Temple is one of the most important religious and cultural landmarks in Hanoi.
I also found it to be one of the most picturesque!
Traditional artwork welcomed me to the active place of worship.
As I explored, I learnt that it’s dedicated to General Trần Hưng Đạo, the guy who fought off the Mongols.
I found the views from the temple genuinely stunning….
Looking back across the wide stretch of Hoan Kiem Lake, with Turtle Tower right in the centre.
A classic Hanoi moment for me!
The entrance to Ngoc Son Temple.
It won’t take long to visit, but it’s well worth your time, especially if you want a quiet moment to balance out Hanoi’s energy.
Opening hours: Daily from 8am to 6pm.
Entrance fee: Around 30,000 VND (just over £1).
Location: Accessible via the red Thê Húc Bridge on the north side of the lake.
Picturesque views of Hoan Kiem Lake from Ngoc Son Temple on a rainy day.
Hanoi Train Street (If it’s open!).
Let’s talk about Train Street, one of the most iconic (and controversial) spots in Hanoi.
But definitely one of my favourite places!
In 2025, access is hit or miss, as authorities continue to crack down on safety concerns. Tour groups aren’t allowed, and the street is often “closed” to tourists… unless you’re invited in by a local café owner.
I actually had no issues in March, with a visit in the day time, and night time…
Although the vibes were different… A coffee, to a beer… A quiet chat to loud, rowdy crowds…
Both visits were really fun.
Many International tourists now message a café in advance, book a drink, and are welcomed in through the back way.
No crowds, no stress, and a front-row seat as the train came thundering past just inches away.
A daytime visit to the famous Train Street.
As I visited the famous street twice, I can offer you advice.
Daytime is better for photos and action. But the night-time glow, with the tracks lit by neon signs is extra special.
And Hanoi beers are something special!
Both were surreal travel moments, and an awesome insight into Vietnamese culture…
So pick a time and head over to the popular Instagram street.
The wait is over, here comes the train.
A glimpse into daily local life at the markets.
If you want to see real Hanoi life up close, head to one of the city’s bustling markets.
I recommend a morning visit to Chợ Đồng Xuân Market, the largest and most iconic in the capital.
It isn’t anything like the Ben Thanh Market in Saigon, which is tourist-heavy.
This one is more local… A true reflection of daily life.
A local seller near Cho Dong Xuan Market.
It’s not super photogenic, but it gives you a real, unfiltered glimpse into daily Vietnamese life.
You only need around 30 minutes to see the whole market, and surrounding shops.
Open daily from early morning (around 6am) to 6pm
Located in the northern edge of the Old Quarter — easy walking distance if you're staying central.
Cho Dong Xuan Market.
Day 2 – A day trip to Ha Long Bay from Hanoi.
After a full-on first day dodging scooters and soaking up Hanoi’s buzz, it’s time to catch a breather. Day 2 is the perfect chance to trade the madness for misty limestone cliffs with a Ha Long Bay day trip.
It’s an easy escape from the city, and one of the best bucket-list day trips you can do from Hanoi!
Why Ha Long Bay is worth the day trip.
Even if you’re short on time, Ha Long Bay is 100% worth the effort.
It was one of my favourite days on my whole 3 month trip across South East Asia.
It’s easily one of the most iconic sights in Vietnam, with picturesque limestone cliffs, beautiful nature, and some awesome caves to explore.
A one-day cruise gives you just enough time to take it all in without committing to an overnight stay.
An awesome viewpoint at Halong Bay.
What to expect on a one-day cruise.
Most Ha Long Bay day tours include roundtrip transfers from your Hanoi hotel, usually leaving early in the morning (around 7:00 AM) and returning by early evening.
It’s roughly a 2.5 – 3 hour drive each way, depending on traffic, however, the buses are very comfortable. I managed to sleep for a couple of hours each way.
You’ll typically spend 4–6 hours on the boat.
On our popular Ha Long day tour, we enjoyed the buffet lunch and a welcome drink, as we headed over to the popular spots in the bay.
There is also a jacuzzi on the back of the cruise ship, which guests are allowed to use at various points of the day.
In terms of activities, here is the typical list on one day Ha Long Bay day trips:
Scenic cruising around the bay.
A local seafood lunch on board.
A stop at one of the bay’s famous caves (like Sung Sot).
A chance to kayak or take a bamboo boat ride.
Visit Titop Island for the high viewpoint and a quick swim.
Additional option for a fun speedboat ride.
Arriving to catch our cruise ship for the day.
Other incredible day tours from Hanoi.
If you’re not vibing the Ha Long trip (or already been), Hanoi has other solid day tour options:
River caves, ancient temples, and countryside views. Often called “Ha Long Bay on land.” Check prices now.
A unique temple complex built into limestone cliffs, reached by riverboat and cable car. Book your spot today.
Learn about traditional ceramics and even try your hand at making your own. Check availability on your dates.
Each one gives you a different taste of Northern Vietnam beyond the city limits, and all are doable in a day.
Another great shot of the bay.
Day 3 – Hidden history, local bites & Hanoi treasures.
By day three, I’d ticked off Hanoi’s biggest highlights, but there was still loads more to see (and eat).
This day is all about going deeper: iconic local bites, some heavy but important history, and a few must-visit cultural spots.
Start with a caffeine hit at the legendary Café Giang, grab the city’s best bánh mì, and then dive into Vietnam’s past at Ho Chi Minh’s Mausoleum and Hoa Lo Prison.
One of the oldest cafes in the city.
Start with a local ritual… Egg coffee at Giang Cafe.
There’s no better way to kick off your last day than with Hanoi’s most iconic drink… egg coffee. And if you’re gonna try it, make it Giang Cafe.
The famous cafe epitomises the awesome café culture in Hanoi!
This tourist favourite spot is where egg coffee was first created back in the 1940s, when milk was scarce and whipped egg yolk became the delicious solution.
Tucked down a narrow alley, it’s got that proper old-school Hanoi feel.
It’s full of character, charming décor, and some very polite staff.
If you can only experience one café in Hanoi, make sure it’s this one!
I had to try an egg coffee.
The best Bánh Mì 25 in town at Bánh Mì 25!
If you only have time for one bánh mì in Hanoi, make it Bánh Mì 25.
I was fortunate enough to stay close by, and be recommended the local gem by a lad in my hotel.
Bánh Mì 25 is a favourite with both locals and travellers, so you can expect to find a queue whichever time you visit.
They are very efficient though, so you will only be waiting a few minutes.
The restaurant is a favourite with both locals and tourists.
There are queues at Bahn Mi 25 throughout the day and night.
The baguettes are light and crispy, packed with flavourful fillings like BBQ pork, egg, or tofu, all made fresh to order.
My choice was the BBQ pork flavour, which only costs around 30,000 VND (£1), so it was perfect for a cheap snack to fuel my Old Quarter exploration.
The setup and ambience is about as authentic as Vietnamese food experience can get!
You can find the restaurant at No 25 Hang Ca street, Hoan Kiem District. Due to its popularity, number 30 is also part of the food spot, for extra seating.
The beautiful Banh Mi.
Ho Chi Minh's Mausoleum.
Visiting Ho Chi Minh’s Mausoleum is one of the most unique and powerful experiences in Hanoi.
I really didn’t know what to expect, but as soon as I arrived in the area, I realised just how important ‘Uncle Ho’ was to the Vietnamese people.
This is one of those travel moments which isn’t fun, but necessary if you want a true feeling of how the famous late leader is thought of in the country.
It’s a quiet, serious experience, and treated very respectfully by international visitors, as they visit the preserved body of Ho Chi Minh.
Ho Chi Minh’s final resting place.
I recommend going early in the morning, as the crowds do get very busy later in the day.
Entry is free, and the site opens around 7.30am.
I wasn’t allowed to take my camera or bags in with me, but there are lockers to securely store them.
Ho Chi Minh’s face is displayed across the city.
Hoa Lo Prison – The ‘Hanoi Hilton’.
I found Hoa Lo Prison, nicknamed the ‘Hanoi Hilton’ by American POWs, to be one of Hanoi’s most sobering historical sites.
Similar to the Cu Chi Tunnels in the south of the country, the site showcases the recent gritty past of Vietnam, which occurred only a matter of decades ago.
The prison became famous during the Vietnam War, because of its role in housing captured American pilots, and keeping them under harsh and controversial conditions.
You’ll see replica statues, preserved cells, and detailed information boards that give a confronting look at life inside.
The infamous entrance to the prison.
It’s not the easiest place to visit, but if you want a true understanding of Vietnam’s history, it’s a must.
Entry is around 50,000 VND (£2), and it’s centrally located, making it a must in your Hanoi plans.
I spent about an hour here, which gave me plenty of time to absorb everything properly.
A memorial inside the prison.
Tips for visiting Hanoi (As a first-timer).
If it’s your first time in Hanoi, a few key tips will make your trip smoother, safer, and way more enjoyable, especially when it comes to transport, packing, and navigating the chaos.
Getting around Hanoi.
One of the reasons for the organised chaos in Vietnam’s capital is the lack of a BTS or MRT system like in Bangkok, but honestly, I found this to be the fun part.
You won’t have any issues walking around the Old Quarter; it’s compact, lively, and made for exploring on foot.
For getting to other parts of the city, I found Grab (Vietnam’s version of Uber) to be the easiest and safest way to get around.
You can book either a car or a motorbike taxi through the app, both are cheap and surprisingly efficient, even in Hanoi traffic.
If you’re after something more unique, try a cyclo ride.. A traditional three-wheeled bicycle taxi.
It’s a classic Hanoi experience, especially popular with first-time visitors wanting a more immersive and scenic way to cruise the Old Quarter streets.
Staying safe in the Old Quarter.
Hanoi’s Old Quarter is hectic, but generally safe, even at night. I walked around solo most evenings and never felt unsafe at any point.
The biggest risks are pickpockets in busy markets, and chaotic traffic when crossing the road… It takes some confidence to just make your way through the busy traffic!
As with Ho Chi Minh City, the common scams are overpriced taxis, note switching, and pushy locals. Use Grab for peace of mind, and stick to your planned budget.
What to pack for Hanoi’s weather.
When I arrived in Hanoi after a month in Thailand, the weather hit different, and not in a good way.
My South East Asia trip suddenly switched from hot, humid days to cold, rainy ones.
Hanoi has four distinct seasons, making its weather way more unpredictable than Ho Chi Minh City, where it’s warm year-round and easier to pack for.
Lightweight, breathable clothes work great for most of the year, but definitely bring a jacket or some layers if you’re visiting between November and February. It was still chilly when I landed in early March.
If you are a light packer, don’t worry. Everything can be found in the shops at the Old Quarter, and I mean everything!
Many tourists use the city tour bus to get around.
A comfortable hotel in the historical Old Quarter.
Looking for a hotel that’s stylish, central, and still feels like a retreat?
Peridot Grand Hotel hit the sweet spot!
Tucked inside Hanoi’s Old Quarter, it’s close to all the action but quiet enough for a proper night’s sleep.
The rooms are sleek and spacious, and the rooftop sky bar and pool were awesome, to escape the noise for a short while.
👉 I stayed here and would 100% book again… Perfect if you want an upgrade without ditching the Old Quarter charm.
A very nice hotel in a central location.
Secure your cheap flights to Hanoi now:
A very rainy day in Hanoi.
Two fun tours of the city
Some of the most popular Vietnam day trips are from Hanoi, and most are very well organised, and very fun.
If you want to explore Hanoi in style, these two tours absolutely delivered:
Hanoi Vintage Jeep Tour.
One of the coolest ways to see the city!
Riding through backstreets and past landmarks in a retro GAZ-69 Jeep felt like stepping into history… with serious style.
→ Local guides, great stories, and unbeatable photo ops.
Check availability & prices here.
An army jeep is a great way to explore the city.
Hanoi: Guided Half-Day City Highlights Tour.
Perfect if you want a deeper, more personal insight into Hanoi’s culture and food.
Our guide was brilliant… We covered major sites and hidden gems I’d never have found solo.
→ Small group vibes, authentic experiences, and tasty local bites.
Book your spot here.
The city highlights tour has fun guides.
Hanoi Itinerary FAQs.
Planning your trip to Vietnam’s capital?
Here are some quick answers to the most common questions travellers ask when building a 3-day Hanoi itinerary.
Is 3 days in Hanoi enough?
Yes, 3 days in Hanoi is the perfect amount of time to explore major landmarks like the Old Quarter, Train Street, Hoan Kiem Lake, and even squeeze in a Ha Long Bay day trip.
It’s fast-paced, but totally doable without feeling rushed.
Can you do Ha Long Bay as a day trip?
Yes, Ha Long Bay can be visited on a day trip from Hanoi.
Most tours include hotel pickup, a 2-hour drive, a 4–6 hour boat cruise with lunch, and stops at caves or kayaking spots — ideal if you're short on time but still want to see this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
What should I wear to temples?
When visiting temples in Hanoi (or anywhere in Vietnam), dress modestly. Cover your shoulders and knees, light trousers, long skirts, and a t-shirt are perfect.
Where should I stay in Hanoi?
Stay in or near the Old Quarter for the best access to food, sights, and nightlife. It’s ideal for first-timers, with lots of hostels, boutique hotels, and affordable guesthouses. You’ll be right in the heart of the action.
Cafe culture in Hanoi.
Is Hanoi safe for solo travellers?
Yes. Hanoi is considered safe for solo travellers, including solo female travellers. Like anywhere, stay alert in busy areas, keep valuables secure, and watch for common scams.
What’s the best time to visit Hanoi?
The best time to visit Hanoi is during the cooler, drier months from October to April. Expect pleasant temperatures, less humidity, and clearer skies. Perfect for sightseeing, and day trips like Ha Long Bay.
Do you need a visa for Vietnam?
Many nationalities need a visa to enter Vietnam. Citizens of countries like the UK, Germany, France, and Japan can enter visa-free for 15 days. Others may need an e-visa, which is quick and easy to apply for online.
A vintage newspaper display.
How about another city in Vietnam instead?
If Hanoi’s left you wanting more (and it probably will), Vietnam’s full of epic stops to keep the adventure going.
Head south to Da Nang for beaches, bridges, and laid-back city life.
Hop over to Hoi An, Vietnam’s most charming town, lanterns, tailors, and riverside nights.
Craving chaos? Ho Chi Minh City brings the heat with street food, rooftop bars, and history.
You’ve only scratched the surface — the rest of Vietnam’s waiting!
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