So, you only have 24 hours in Hanoi?
You’ll still get a perfect glimpse into the city’s magnetic soul. Most travellers stay for a maximum of four days in Hanoi to truly immerse themselves in the cultural richness, local delicacies, explore museums, or enjoy the city's lively shopping districts. But we understand - you’re short on time and you have places to be.
Hanoi pulses with life at every turn. The dazzling capital of Vietnam is a captivating fusion of old-world charm and modern energy intertwined in a thriving dance that transports you through the ages, revealing the deep roots of Vietnamese culture.
With its lively street markets, stunning French colonial architecture, and an abundance of mouthwatering dishes. Amidst the buzz of scooters, street vendors, and the occasional wandering rooster, you’ll witness the perfect marriage of these elements—through its food, culture, and timeless entertainment.
There’s a saying that goes: Hanoi - 36 streets, 36 goods.
Three factors need to be disclosed before we move on:
Some parts of Hanoi are walkable. For example, the Old Quarter, especially the area surrounding Hoan Kiem Lake. But for a more expansive exploration, renting a scooter or booking a Grab taxi is the most practical way to navigate the city’s diverse districts.
Navigating Hanoi’s streets is an adventure in itself. The sidewalks are a colourful jumble of scooters zipping by, street vendors hawking their goods, and the occasional rooster or dog ambling along. You may find yourself occasionally stepping into the road, where a flood of scooters swarms around you in a seamless dance of organised chaos.
The secret is to walk in Hanoi? Unwavering confidence and a steady pace. Hesitation is the enemy; as you keep moving forward, the traffic swirls around you like an orchestrated ballet, creating an invisible bubble of space around you in the midst of it all. It’s an exhilarating experience, one that is uniquely Hanoi.
Let’s make every minute of your 24 hours in Vietnam’s ancient capital unforgettable!
Begin your day with a traditional Vietnamese breakfast
Breakfast is sacred for Hanoi’s locals. It’s a lively affair that fuels both body and soul. The city’s morning meals are savoury and oh-so-flavourful. Try a bowl of Pho (Hanoi-style beef or chicken noodle soup), a Banh Mi (Vietnamese sandwich), or Bun Cha (rice vermicelli with grilled pork)—each dish brought to life with the unmistakable zest of fish sauce, pepper, and a dash of garlic chilli vinegar. These traditional breakfasts are beloved by locals and offer a hearty, satisfying start to your day.
Vietnam is one of the largest coffee producers in the world, hence, it’s no wonder that the country’s robust coffee culture shines. Get a cuppa of the sweet Ca Phe Phin (traditional filter coffee), refreshing Ca Phe Sua Da (iced coffee with milk), or perhaps the rich, velvety Ca Phe Trung (egg coffee).
Head over to the birthplace of egg coffee, Giang Café! Egg coffee is made with whipped egg yolk, condensed milk, and strong Vietnamese coffee. This iconic drink was invented during the 1940s when milk was scarce, and it remains a beloved local speciality to this day.
Walk it off at the Hoan Kiem Lake
A symbol of Hanoi’s history and legend is Hoan Kiem Lake (also known as Ho Guom, or the Lake of the Returned Sword). Take a serene morning walk after your delectable breakfast. Steeped in local lore surrounding King Le Thai To and the divine turtle, the lake is a peaceful oasis in the heart of the city.
Early morning is the perfect time to witness the lake’s tranquil beauty as locals gather for their daily routines. If you’re there on a weekend, you’ll be treated to a pedestrian zone brimming with cultural activities and street performances.
Continue to the Old Quarter
Merely 10 minutes away by foot is the charming Old Quarter, where 36 narrow streets come alive with commerce, culture, and history. Each street has its own identity, offering everything from fine jewellery on Hang Bac Street to colourful textiles on Hang Dao Street.
Don’t miss the festive charm of Hang Ma Street, where you’ll find seasonal decorations that range from Christmas baubles to Lunar New Year lanterns. The Old Quarter’s antique architecture—weathered buildings, charming alleys, and bustling shops—is a glimpse into Hanoi’s dynamic past.
Your morning wouldn't be complete without a visit to the iconic Dong Xuan Market, a sprawling labyrinth of stalls showcasing authentic Vietnamese products and souvenirs spanning over 14,000 square metres and housing nearly 2,000 vendors. This market is an experience in itself. Then, check out Hanoi Train Street where trains mysteriously speed through narrow streets, creating a breathtaking scene right out of a dream.
Drown in a fragrant bowl of pho for lunch
Hanoi’s extraordinary gastronomy steals the spotlight. Allow your senses to relish in a bowl of pho. The Old Quarter happens to house two famous pho eateries: Pho Bat Dan and Pho Gia Truyen.
Pho Bat Dan reigns supreme as a legendary pho destination where each bowl of pho tells the story of Hanoi’s culinary heritage. Known for its intensely rich broth and melt-in-your-mouth slices of beef, this iconic spot has earned a loyal following.
Another gem that can’t be overlooked is Pho Gia Truyen, a time-honoured establishment beloved for its authentic, old-world style pho. This humble yet revered eatery serves up a pho experience that has captivated generations, featuring a taste of tradition that lingers long after the last sip of broth.
Uncover more tradition at Văn Miếu - Quốc Tử Giám
Built in 1070 during the Ly Dynasty, the magnificent Temple of Literature was dedicated to Confucius and has stood as a symbol of Vietnam’s intellectual and scholarly heritage. The tranquil courtyards and beautiful stone steles, etched with the names of scholars from centuries past, offer a contemplative and peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of the city. As you wander through this revered historical site, you’ll be transported back in time, surrounded by the spirit of learning and tradition.
Delve into Hoàng Thành Thăng Long
The ancient grandeur Imperial Citadel of Thang Long is a UNESCO World Heritage site that has been the backdrop to over 1,000 years of Vietnamese history. This majestic site, located at the heart of Hanoi, was once the centre of power for Vietnam’s Ly, Tran, and Nguyen dynasties.
Its striking architecture and fascinating regal past for those with a penchant for history. An alternative stop could be Hoa Lo Prison, a colonial-era site that chronicles the gripping stories of political prisoners and revolutionaries who fought for Vietnam’s independence.
Glide through the city on a cyclo
No visit to Hanoi is complete without a cyclo ride—a charming way to experience the city at a leisurely pace. As you glide through the streets, you'll soak in panoramic views of Hanoi’s radiant energy aboard the traditional mode of transport.
Watch a show at Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre
Vietnam’s artistic heritage shines at Hanoi’s most renowned water puppet venue, Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre. This is the longest-running water puppet show, based on the Asia Book of Records, due to its fascinating glimpse into a centuries-old tradition. Situated right across from the famous red Huc Bridge, which leads to Hoan Kiem Lake, the theatre is a must-visit for anyone wanting to dive into the rich tapestry of Vietnamese culture.
The performance features expertly crafted wooden puppets dancing through the water, telling stories accompanied by traditional Vietnamese music played on instruments like the Erhu and Zither. Expect a captivating blend of lighting changes and evolving narratives. While some storylines may be hard to follow and the puppet movements can occasionally feel repetitive, the experience remains enchanting, a tribute to an art form that has been cherished since the 11th century.
Một, hai, ba, dzô at Beer Street
Một, hai, ba, dzô is Vietnamese for one, two, three, cheers! Beer is deeply woven into the fabric of Vietnam’s social life as a refreshing escape in every sip. The legendary Bia Hoi, a light and crisp draft beer served straight from barrels at bustling street-side stalls, is a true emblem of the local drinking culture, especially in Hanoi.
Hanoi’s Beer Street undeniably guarantees you an evening of lively conversation and great company. Nestled between 1 Pho Ma May and 9 Pho Ma May, or in the popular Ta Hien Street, you’ll find an array of beer shops lining the streets. The area transforms into a pedestrian-only zone on weekends, where tables and benches are set up for patrons to enjoy the atmosphere. Add live music or a street singer performing karaoke to the mix, and you have the perfect spot for a vigorous, casual night out.