Complete 3-day Hanoi Itinerary, Vietnam (Beginner Friendly Guide)

This 3-day Hanoi itinerary covers the best of Vietnam’s capital, from French colonial architecture and ancient temples to local street food and cultural experiences.

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Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam, offers a blend of old colonial French infrastructure, street food, and culture. If you have only 3 days and want to explore the soul of Hanoi, then creating the right itinerary should be your top priority.

Day 1: Old Quarter, Culture and Local Flavour

Morning: Start at the Old Quarter

Location: Hoàn Kiếm Lake and Ngoc Son Temple
Time: 6:30 AM – 8:00 AM

Begin your day at Hoan Kiem Lake. Watch locals doing yoga and take a peaceful walk along the lake.

Must-visit: Ngoc Son Temple, connected by the iconic red Huc Bridge.

Breakfast Recommendation: Bún Chả or Phở Bò

Location: Pho Bat Dan or Bún Chả Hương Liên (Obama’s spot!)

For vegetarians, try tofu with noodles.

Afternoon: Temples, Museums, and History

1. Temple of Literature (Văn Miếu) – Vietnam’s oldest university.

2. Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum Complex – includes Mausoleum, Museum & Presidential Palace. Note: photo restrictions and dress code apply.

Evening: Hanoi Train Street & Café Culture

Experience the narrow alley where a train runs inches from cafes. Time your visit with train schedules and follow safety rules.

Try Hanoi’s famous Egg Coffee at Giang Café or Café Đinh.

Dinner: Cha Ca La Vong (grilled fish). For vegetarians: tofu, fried rice, or bun noodle soup.

Day 2: Culture, Nature & Tradition

Morning: French Quarter Exploration

Cycle or walk past wide boulevards and colonial buildings. Don’t miss the Opera House, St. Joseph’s Cathedral, and Hoa Lo Prison (Hanoi Hilton).

Afternoon: Dong Xuan Market & Street Food Tour

Explore stalls with spices, souvenirs, and local fashion. Enjoy street foods like Bánh Mì, Nem Rán, and Chè Ba Màu.

Evening: West Lake Sunset & Tran Quoc Pagoda

Enjoy tranquil views of Hanoi’s biggest lake and visit Tran Quoc Pagoda – the oldest Buddhist temple in the city.

Night: Romantic Dinner + Live Music

Dine at a rooftop restaurant near West Lake and enjoy live jazz blending Vietnamese and Western vibes.

Day 3: Local Life, Art & Shopping

Morning: Long Bien Bridge & Red River Dike

Take a walk on the historic bridge and watch locals start their day. Have a casual breakfast at a hidden local café.

Afternoon: Art & Museums

1. Vietnam Museum of Ethnology – exhibits on tribal cultures and traditional houses.
2. Vietnamese Women’s Museum – honors women’s contributions to Vietnamese society.

3. Water Puppet Show – Don’t miss this traditional performance at Thang Long Theatre. Book in advance!

Evening: Final Shopping at Old Quarter Night Market

Open on Friday to Sunday. Get souvenirs, handicrafts, and local snacks. End with a comforting bowl of sticky rice (Xôi) or a sweet chè dessert.

Additional Tips

• Get a local SIM card (Viettel or Mobifone) at the airport or shops in the city.
• Carry cash – small vendors usually don’t accept cards.
• Use Google Maps and Translate – essential for solo and first-time travelers.
• Use local guides or walking tour apps to enhance your experience.

Conclusion

Hanoi is not just a city, it’s an experience – every corner has a story. Follow this 3-day plan to discover the heart of Hanoi through its streets, people, food, and traditions.

Are you planning to visit Hanoi? Comment below and let us know what excites you the most – food, culture, or nature? If this guide helped you, share it with your fellow travelers planning their Vietnam trip!

Also read: Is Hanoi a Good Place to Live