Hanoi 10 days

Hanoi's main international airport. Upon arrival, you'll go through immigration and customs before heading to baggage claim.

A maze of narrow streets, each historically dedicated to a trade. It's the heart of Hanoi, buzzing with activity, street food, and unique shops.

• Get lost and embrace the chaos!
• Be mindful of motorbikes.

A highly-rated spot for delicious and authentic Vietnamese banh mi. Enjoy a variety of fillings on a crispy baguette.

Famous for its lively atmosphere and cheap draft beer ('bia hoi'). A great place to experience Hanoi's nightlife and mingle with locals and travelers.

Visit the final resting place of Vietnam's most revered leader, Ho Chi Minh. The complex also includes the Presidential Palace and Ho Chi Minh's Stilt House.

• Dress respectfully: shoulders and knees must be covered.
• Check opening hours as it closes for periods each year.

An iconic Buddhist temple with a unique design, resembling a lotus flower emerging from a single stone pillar. It's a symbol of Hanoi.

Showcases the rich cultural diversity of Vietnam's 54 ethnic groups through fascinating exhibits and an impressive outdoor village.

• Allow ample time to explore the outdoor displays.
• Consider renting an audio guide for deeper insights.

A popular restaurant offering a wide array of Vietnamese street food dishes in a charming courtyard setting.

The historical heart of Hanoi, this scenic lake is a popular spot for locals to exercise and relax. Visit the iconic red bridge and the Temple of the Jade Mountain.

Located on a small island in Hoan Kiem Lake, accessible by the picturesque Huc Bridge. It's dedicated to a 13th-century general and a Confucian scholar.

Vietnam's first national university, founded in 1070. This beautiful complex is dedicated to Confucius and scholars, featuring traditional architecture and stone steles.

• Look for the ancient wells and turtle-shaped steles inscribed with scholars' names.

A legendary spot for authentic Hanoi-style pho bo (beef noodle soup). Expect a queue, but the rich broth is worth the wait.

A stunning French colonial architectural gem. While not attending a performance, admire its facade and the surrounding French Quarter.

A poignant museum dedicated to the role of women in Vietnamese society and history, with exhibits on traditional dress, wartime contributions, and daily life.

Hanoi's largest indoor market, offering everything from fresh produce and clothing to souvenirs and electronics. It's a bustling hub of local commerce.

• Bargaining is expected.
• Explore the food stalls on the ground floor.

A vibrant and extensive mosaic artwork stretching over 4 kilometers along the dyke of the Red River, depicting Hanoi's history and culture.

• Best viewed by walking or cycling along the Red River dyke.
• Sections are more concentrated and impressive than others.

Specializes in Hanoi's iconic dish, Cha Ca (grilled fish with dill and turmeric). A unique culinary experience where you cook the fish at your table.

Often called 'Ha Long Bay on land', Ninh Binh offers stunning karst landscapes, rice paddies, and ancient temples. This day trip will focus on the Tam Coc boat tour and Hoa Lu ancient capital.

• Book a guided tour for ease of transport and information.
• Wear comfortable shoes for walking.
• Bring insect repellent.

Enjoy a scenic boat ride along the Ngo Dong River, passing through rice paddies and under limestone caves. Local rowers will guide you through the breathtaking scenery.

The ancient capital of Vietnam in the 10th and 11th centuries. Visit the temples dedicated to the Dinh and Le dynasties.

Enjoy a local lunch or dinner featuring Ninh Binh specialties like goat meat or grilled fish.

Explore the intricate network of streets with a local guide, learning about the history of each trade street and hidden temples.

• Choose a tour that focuses on local life and hidden gems.
• Ask your guide for their favorite local eateries.

Famous for serving President Obama and Anthony Bourdain, this restaurant offers delicious Bun Cha (grilled pork with noodles) and spring rolls.

Continue exploring different sections of the vibrant mosaic artwork along the Red River dyke, focusing on areas you might have missed.

Experience a unique Vietnamese art form where puppets perform traditional stories and legends on a water stage, accompanied by live music.

• Book tickets in advance, especially for popular shows.
• Arrive 15-20 minutes early to get good seats.

Embark on a guided tour to sample a variety of Hanoi's best street food, from savory snacks to sweet desserts, often in the Old Quarter.

Hanoi's largest freshwater lake, offering a more tranquil escape from the city bustle. Enjoy a walk or cycle along its shores.

Hanoi's oldest pagoda, dating back to the 6th century, situated on a small island in West Lake. It's a beautiful example of Buddhist architecture.

Learn to prepare classic Vietnamese dishes like pho, spring rolls, or banh xeo. Many classes include a market visit and the chance to enjoy your creations for lunch.

• Look for classes that include a market tour.
• Choose a class that focuses on dishes you're eager to learn.

A popular spot for live music and a relaxed atmosphere. It's a great place to unwind with a drink and enjoy local jazz or acoustic sets.

A contemporary art gallery showcasing works by emerging and established Vietnamese artists. It offers a modern perspective on Vietnamese art.

Another notable gallery featuring a diverse range of contemporary Vietnamese art, often with abstract or socially relevant themes.

Explore the elegant streets lined with colonial-era architecture, including the Hanoi Opera House, Sofitel Metropole Hotel, and charming cafes.

The birthplace of Hanoi's unique egg coffee ('ca phe trung'). This traditional cafe offers a rich, creamy, and surprisingly delicious coffee experience.

• Try the traditional egg coffee, it's a must-try!
• Be prepared for a small, often crowded space.

A refined French-Vietnamese fusion restaurant offering an elegant dining experience with creative dishes and an extensive wine list.

A narrow street where residential buildings stand incredibly close to active train tracks. Experience the thrill of watching a train pass by safely from a nearby cafe.

• Check train schedules beforehand as they can vary.
• Be aware of the current access regulations, which can change.

A bustling local market known for its wide selection of fabrics, clothing, and fresh produce. It's a great place to observe daily life and find unique souvenirs.

• Go in the morning for the freshest produce.
• Bargain respectfully for prices.

Indulge in a relaxing traditional Vietnamese massage or spa treatment to unwind after days of exploration.

• Book appointments in advance.
• Many spas offer packages for couples.

Offers authentic home-style Vietnamese cuisine in a beautiful setting with traditional decor. A great place for a farewell dinner.

Grab any last-minute gifts or souvenirs from the shops in the Old Quarter.

Enjoy one last cup of Vietnamese coffee at a local cafe before heading to the airport.

Depart from Hanoi.