3 Days Itinerary in Hanoi, Vietnam - Travel Guide

Introduction

This exciting and culturally immersive 3-day journey in Hanoi, Vietnam, will transport you from the hustle and bustle of your everyday life into a world of serene lakes, ancient temples, charming streets, and mouth-watering delicacies. A journey filled with versatile experiences and unforgettable moments.

Day 1 - Get up close and personal with Hanoi's rich history and culture

Hanoi - a city with a unique blend of the traditional charm and the modern sophistication. Our first day will be all about immersing ourselves into its heart. Kick off your hat (or in this case, your non la, the Vietnamese conical hat) at the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum first. Here, pay your respects to the Vietnamese revolutionary leader, a pivotal figure in the nation's fight for independence. After marveling at the mausoleum's stately architecture, hop onto a cyclo, a three-wheel bicycle taxi, through the labyrinthine Old Quarter. Experienced drivers winding through the narrow streets is an adrenaline-pumping experience. Don't forget to indulge in a robust bowl of the famous Vietnamese Pho for lunch. In the afternoon, lose yourself in the picturesque backdrop of Hoan Kiem Lake. The lake houses the enchanting Ngoc Son temple, an epitome of traditional Vietnamese architecture. As night falls, get mesmerized by the puppetry performed on water at the Thang Long Water Puppet Theater, a truly Vietnamese spectacle.

Day 2 - Embrace the art and cuisine of Hanoi

Put on your artsy glasses for day two as we start at the Vietnam Fine Arts Museum. You'll be taken aback by the rich collection spanning thousands of years encapsulating Vietnam's cultural and historical metamorphosis. The vibrant and the earthy colors of Vietnamese art are guaranteed to leave you spellbound. Well, after the visual feast, it's time to satisfy the taste buds. What about learning to cook your own Vietnamese meal? Join a culinary class, shop for ingredients at the local market, cook, and then, yes, relish your creation. In the evening, stroll around Tay Ho (West Lake). Don't miss the sunset over the lake from Tran Quoc Pagoda, the oldest Buddhist temple in Hanoi. Wrap up the day with a visit to the Hanoi Night Market for souvenirs and unique knick-knacks.

Day 3 - Explore Hanoi's natural beauty and night-time charm

Let's rendezvous with Hanoi's natural beauty on our last day. Start with Ba Vi National Park. A trek to the park's summit presents vast panoramas of mountains draped in clouds - a sight to behold. Back in town, subject your senses to the soaring symphony of colors, sounds, and aromas at the Dong Xuan Market. As day transitions into night, slip into the magical nightlife of Hanoi. Experience the unique Ta Hien Street (Beer Street). With a chilled glass of bia hoi (draft beer) in hand, this is the perfect place to say 'cheers' to your memorable journey.