Destination Overview
Best Time
October–April Length of Stay
3–4 days Budget Range
Budget / Mid-rangeTop Things to Do
Hoan Kiem Lake
Relaxing area in the city center.
Free
Early morning
Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum
Important national landmark.
Free
Morning
Old Quarter Hanoi
Street food and shopping.
Free
Evening
Where to Stay
Budget
Hanoi Buffalo Hostel
Affordable and great location in Old Quarter.
Mid-Range
La Siesta Hotel
Comfortable and central.
Luxury
Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi
Historic 5-star French colonial hotel.
Sample 3-Day Itinerary
1
City Heritage
- Morning: Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum
- Afternoon: Temple of Literature
- Evening: Old Quarter food trip
2
Halong Bay
- Morning: Halong Bay cruise (Early start)
- Afternoon: Cruising & Caves
- Evening: Return to Hanoi
3
Life & Lakes
- Morning: Hoan Kiem Lake
- Afternoon: Train Street
- Evening: Water puppet show
Want to plan your own itinerary?
Use the itinerary planner to build a custom day-by-day trip around your schedule.
How to Get There
- Nearest AirportNoi Bai International Airport
- Transportation from AirportTaxi, Grab, Airport Bus
- Visa Requirements E-visa available for many travelers
Getting Around
- Public TransportBus
- Transportation AppsGrab
- Daily Transport Budget$5–$15
Daily Budget
Accommodation$15–$350
Food$10–$30
Transportation$5–$15
Activities$10–$50
Total Per Day~$40–$445
Where to Eat
Bun Cha Huong Lien
Vietnamese BBQ (Budget)
Cha Ca Thang Long
Local specialty (Mid-range)
Must Try Dish
Bun Cha
What to Pack
- Clothing: Light clothes, light jacket (cool season)
- Documents: Passport
- Gadgets: Camera
Essential Tips
🛡️ Safety: Be cautious when crossing busy streets.
💡 Money: Book Halong Bay tours locally.
🤝 Etiquette: Remove shoes when entering homes.
Important ReminderWinter months can be chilly.
Top Photo Spots
- Hoan Kiem Lake
- Train Street
- Long Bien Bridge