dessert
What to do in Hanoi in 3 Days: A Whirlwind Itinerary
Last updated on January 27th, 2025 at 09:51 pm
Are you officially planning a trip to Vietnam in 2024? Well you might find yourself having a pretty hard decision to make when planning: North Vietnam or South Vietnam? Well, if you’ve chosen the north – you’ve come to the right place. There is SO MUCH to do and see in the beautiful capital of Hanoi!
As you plan your trip, you’re probably also wondering how long you’ll need in Hanoi? In my opinion, three full days is definitely enough time to see the main attractions, engage in some authentic cultural experiences and sample some of the mouth-watering street food. In this article, I’m going to show you everything you need to plan the best 3 day itinerary!
Find out about the main Hanoi attractions and things to do, discover the best places to stay (yes, I’ll be including some amazing boutique hotels like usual) and the best restaurants to visit. I’ve also put together a section on when to visit, to help you avoid the worst of the monsoons and the temperature extremes of Southeast Asia.
So – let’s get into it shall we? Keep reading to begin planning the perfect 3-day Hanoi, Vietnam itinerary!
This site contains affiliate links. I may receive a small commission for purchases made through these links however, this has no impact on the integrity of my reviews. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
When to Visit Hanoi
There are two things you really need to be aware of when deciding on the best time to visit Hanoi. The first is the temperature; in its hottest months, the thermometer frequently hits the high 80-100s°F (30-40s°C) which can make anything other than hiding in your air-conditioned hotel room very challenging. The other is rainfall. Hanoi and all of Vietnam experience intense monsoon seasons, which can see rapid and dramatic downpours. You can certainly still visit during these times (and indeed it can be the cheapest time to go), but it’s best to expect to get wet.
Good thing umbrellas in Vietnam are relatively cheap so you’ll still likely be able to protect yourself in case you forget to pack one!
The Best Time to Visit Hanoi (to avoid the worst heat)
Vietnam’s summer season lasts from May to August and is when temperatures generally hit their hottest. Accompanied with sweltering humidity, it can be challenging to venture out in the hottest part of the day.
Spring from March to April and autumn from September to November offer the most pleasant temperatures for sightseeing, generally hovering around the mid-70s°F which is basically shorts and t-shirt weather without the extreme heat of summer. I visited this past April and the weather was bearable. It was in the high 80s °F to low 90s °F but I was just happy to be far away from the chill of San Francisco.
Winter in Hanoi, lasting from December to February, can get surprisingly chilly, with temperatures sometimes dropping into single figures. Fine for sightseeing in Hanoi, but if you’re looking to cruise nearby Halong Bay, or embark on a moped trip to the Ha Giang Loop, I recommend one of the shoulder seasons instead.
The Best Time to Visit Hanoi (to avoid the monsoons)
Hanoi’s rainy season lasts from May to September, with June through August typically the wettest months. Heavy showers and flooding can make more rural parts of north Vietnam impassable, but this is rarely a problem in Hanoi. Travelers generally prefer visiting during the dry season, from October to April. There is significantly less rainfall during this period, as well as clear skies that are ideal for sightseeing.
Best Places to Visit & Things to do in Hanoi
So, you’ve settled on when to visit Hanoi, but how are you going to fill your 3-day Hanoi itinerary when you arrive? I’ve put together a list of some of the must-visit attractions and things to do in Hanoi, so you can start planning your trip.
Stroll around Hoan Kiem Lake
This large freshwater lake is located in the heart of Hanoi and is something of a focal point for the city. Also known as the ‘Emerald Lake’ due to its green color, it is located in the city’s Old Quarter and the area surrounding the lake is often filled with entertainers, public Tai Chi sessions and locals and travelers alike mooching around the area.
Many of the city’s best restaurants, shops and bars are in the vicinity, and there is a temple dedicated to General Tran Huang Do, who fought off the Mongols in the 13th century.
Enjoy a beverage at the Note Coffee
Vietnam’s coffee culture is second to none, largely down to its long period of French colonial influence. In Hanoi, one of the best places to enjoy a traditional Vietnamese coffee is at Note Coffee, a somewhat narrow multi-story café located just a short walk from the Old Quarter.
The idea is simple, any guest at the café can write whatever they like down on a post it note and stick it on the walls of the establishment. Handwritten notes from travelers all across the globe, all of whom were once sat where you are right now!
Ps. If you’re thinking this is a tourist trap with rubbish, overpriced coffee, think again – it’s often labeled as one of the best coffee shops in Hanoi! I literally spent HOURS in here reading all the beautiful notes from folks around the world.
Eat your way across the city on a food tour
For any foodies looking to get to the heart of Hanoi’s cuisine, a dedicated food tour can make for a great day (or evening) as part of your itinerary. Led by a knowledgeable local guide, a good Hanoi food tour will take you to the city’s best and most vibrant markets, street food stalls and hidden gems in the Old Quarter and beyond. You will get to sample a range of iconic dishes such as pho and banh mi, as well as drinks like egg coffee, all in the best possible establishments!
My dad and I managed to snag some last minute tickets from GetYourGuide and were super pleased with our experience! For only $40 total, we got to see Train Street at night (more on that below) and left super full. I highly recommend booking this tour if you enjoy food and/or are maybe traveling solo and want to meet other folks who enjoy food!
Tuck into an authentic banh mi
Another legacy of French colonialism in Vietnam, the banh mi is something not to be missed. A fresh French baguette is filled with a meat such as pork and crunchy veg, herbs and chilli in a mouth-watering fusion of French and Vietnamese cuisines and cultures.
Don’t be surprised if you find yourself consuming several per day, it’s that hard to resist! Street food vendors are easy to find in Hanoi, and there are some specific recommendations to try. Banh Mi 25 in the Old Quarter is one, and Banh Mi Tram is another popular spot with tourists and locals alike.
Pay your respects at the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum
If you’ve been following me for awhile, you’ll know that I am a huge history nerd (particularly as it relates to war) which means visiting a history museum is always on my list!
The Vietnam War ended with US forces pulling out, and the country reunified under the Communist Party of Vietnam. Long time revolutionary and wartime leader Ho Chi Minh didn’t live to see this, he passed away in 1969. The leader now lies in state in a purpose-built mausoleum, a must-visit for anyone interested in Vietnam’s wartime history. Not far from the mausoleum, travelers can also visit the Presidential Palace, Ho Chi Minh’s stilt house and the One Pillar Pagoda, all holding significance for Vietnamese history.
If you’re looking for more insights, you can also book a half-day tour with a knowledgeable guide that includes a visit to the mausoleum and the One Pillar Pagoda.
Take a Halong Bay day trip
Around 100 miles from Hanoi (a drive of 2.5 – 3 hours) is Halong Bay, where lush green limestone islets rise out of the emerald waters, and there are all manner of ancient cave systems and floating markets to explore. Although we opted for 2 Day, 1 Night stay in Halong Bay via Athena Cruises, it is possible to do it in a day trip from Hanoi, as long as you don’t mind an early start!
Ps. Another great day trip option is a visit to Ninh Binh.
Tours are popular and can be booked in most hotels and hostels in the city for a reasonable price. A day trip will typically include a cruise on a large traditional junk boat, lunch and some form of activity, such as kayaking, or cave exploration. And you’ll be back in Hanoi in time for dinner!
If you end up having the time, I definitely recommend an overnight trip. That way you don’t have to rush and you get to witness incredible sunsets like this (pictured above) with the rock formations surrounding you.
Watch a unique water puppet theatre show
A unique art form to Hanoi, water puppetry has been around since the 11th century, and watching a show is a fun way to spend some time in the city. Puppeteers in traditional dress maneuver their wooden puppets over pools of water, creating a 3D effect with water splashes. Shows typically depict historical Vietnamese myths and legends and are accompanied by traditional music. The Thang Long Theatre is the most popular with visitors, offering shows daily.
Visit the one-of-a-kind Train Street in Old Quarter
Have you ever seen a train zip past just inches from houses? That’s the thrill of Train Street in Hanoi! Nestled in the Old Quarter, this unique spot features a railway track running through the middle of houses, cafes, and shops.
Be sure to check the train schedule (only a few passes a day) and find a safe spot to watch the locomotive roar by. It’s an adrenaline-pumping experience you won’t forget! Remember, respect the residents and businesses here – it’s their neighborhood after all.
Take in the spectacular St Joseph’s Cathedral
Dating to 1886, the neo-Gothic St Joseph’s Cathedral is one of Hanoi’s oldest and most famous landmarks, and well worth taking a walk to.
Reminiscent of the Paris’ Notre Dame, it features stained glass windows and stunning architecture. Entrance is restricted to mass, but a walk around the exterior followed by a refreshing drink can make for a great way to spend an hour during your time in the city.
Enjoy a unique egg coffee
Created in the 1940s during a milk shortage, today egg coffee is extremely popular not just in Hanoi, but throughout Vietnam. Vietnamese coffee is blended with a rich and creamy egg yolk mixture, creating a new take on the world’s most popular drink – think liquid tiramisu.
Head to the unassuming Café Giang, birthplace of egg coffee, to enjoy a warming cup, or delve into one of the hundreds of independent cafes in Hanoi’s Old Quarter and beyond.
Book a Vietnamese cooking class
Another great tour option for those looking to experience authentic Hanoi is to book a cooking class. Typically, this will involve heading to a local market to purchase ingredients with your guide, and then making your way to a communal kitchen where you and the rest of the group will enjoy a step-by-step tutorial to creating some iconic Vietnamese dishes, such as spring rolls and sticky rice. And yes, you will get to eat your creations for lunch. As always, I highly recommend booking via GetYourGuide for the best service and a knowledgeable guide/teacher.
Explore the Temple of Literature
Escape Hanoi’s buzz and enter a sanctuary of scholarship at the Temple of Literature. Founded in 1070, it’s Vietnam’s oldest university, boasting stunning architecture and tranquil gardens.
Wander courtyards lined with ancient stelae (stone tablets) and admire the ornate pavilions dedicated to Confucius and Vietnamese scholars. Spot local students seeking good luck by rubbing the heads of the stone turtles – a local tradition!
This serene escape offers a glimpse into Vietnam’s deep respect for education and its rich cultural heritage.
Where to Stay in Hanoi
I’ve also put together a short list of recommended accommodation options in Hanoi. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or the fifth, these are my recommendations on the best boutique hotels in Hanoi!
Capella Hanoi
Capella Hanoi: Housed in a grand building on a boulevard along Hoan Kiem Lake, the award-winning Capella Hanoi is one of the best 5-star hotels in the city.
The elegant lounge is reminiscent of old-world Europe, and each of the 47 rooms and suites oozes opulence. Rooms feature French balconies, themed styling, and beautiful furnishings.
The onsite restaurant, Capella Hanoi, is the only Michelin-star restaurant in the whole of Vietnam.
La Sinfonía del Rey Hotel & Spa
La Sinfonía del Rey Hotel & Spa: This boutique offering in the Old Quarter features a breath-taking sky bar with 360-degree views over Hoan Kiem Lake and Ngoc Son Temple. Serving a selection of wines, beers and exquisite cocktails, it offers an inviting ambience after a day of exploring.
All the rooms at La Sinfonía del Rey Hotel & Spa are equipped with air-conditioning and complimentary Wi-Fi, and a range of mouth-watering local and international dishes are served at The Rhythms Restaurant.
Salute Premium Hotel & Spa
Salute Premium Hotel & Spa: Rooms at the contemporary Salute Premium Hotel & Spa feature floor to ceiling windows, modern furnishings and amenities including air-conditioning, tea & coffee making facilities, chic hardwood floors and complimentary toiletries.
Guests can enjoy massages, traditional Vietnamese baths, and a range of other treatments at the spa, and dining is at the hotel restaurant, offering a buffet breakfast and a la carte fusion menu for lunch and dinner.
The West Hotel & Spa
The West Hotel & Spa: Featuring many of the amenities and services expected of a more glamorous hotel, The West Hotel & Spa is a great option for those travelers to Hanoi looking to keep their costs down.
There’s an onsite spa and restaurant serving Asian and European classic dishes. Rooms feature ensuite bathrooms with complimentary toiletries, flat-screen TV, wood-panelled flooring and air-conditioning.
Best Restaurants in Hanoi
Besides the affordability, one of the best parts about Vietnam (and Asia in general) is the food. I could easily write an entire blog post on food in Vietnam alone (I guess I know what my next post will be) but have narrowed things down to my favorites below. It’s no surprise that Hanoi is home to an excellent food scene and a wealth of fantastic dining options!
Bún chả Hương Liên
In 2016, then-US president Barack Obama at a meal in Bún chả Hương Liên with TV chef Anthony Bourdain. The table they sat at is now encased in glass and the restaurant itself has become a popular spot for tourists in the city. And this isn’t just a tourist trap – you wouldn’t know it was anything special from the outside, prices are very low, and the food is excellent. The Obama Combo includes fresh bun cha, a crab spring roll and a local beer for less than $4.
Xới Cơm
Authentic North Vietnamese cuisine is served at this small, restaurant, where the vintage interior is as impressive as the food itself. With just 14 tables, and styled on traditional Hanoi houses of the 1980s, it’s a step back in time. The menu is refreshed on a daily basis and uses only the freshest local ingredients. Prices are affordable and the restaurant has been named consistently in the Michelin Guide as one of the best in the city.
La Terrasse Du Metropole
For an extravagant meal, head to La Terrasse Du Metropole, housed in the exclusive Sofitel Legend Metropole Hotel. Inspired by Parisien bistros, the menu is filled with classic French dishes such as steak-frites, coq au vin and oysters. Located in the French Quarter, it boasts an enviable and easily accessible location.
3-Days in Hanoi: Final Thoughts
The best 3-day Hanoi itinerary is one that involves discovering the best that the Vietnamese capital has to offer, eating fantastic food and staying in an excellent hotel that meets your individual tastes and budget.
Although three days is enough time in the city to see most of the main attractions, don’t be surprised if you find yourself staying longer. Whether it’s uncovering Vietnam War history, paying your respects at the Mausoleum of Ho Chi Minh or strolling through Hanoi’s lush green spaces and around its lakes, this city is one that is sure to delight you during your travels.
Did you get a chance to visit Hanoi? Let me know about your trip in the comments below!
Visiting other parts of Asia?
Check out my other travel guides on Asia here.
Looking for travel inspiration to somewhere else?
Last updated on January 27th, 2025 at 09:51 pm
Are you officially planning a trip to Vietnam in 2024? Well you might find yourself having a pretty hard decision to make when planning: North Vietnam or South Vietnam? Well, if you’ve chosen the north – you’ve come to the right place. There is SO MUCH to do and see in the beautiful capital of Hanoi!
As you plan your trip, you’re probably also wondering how long you’ll need in Hanoi? In my opinion, three full days is definitely enough time to see the main attractions, engage in some authentic cultural experiences and sample some of the mouth-watering street food. In this article, I’m going to show you everything you need to plan the best 3 day itinerary!
Find out about the main Hanoi attractions and things to do, discover the best places to stay (yes, I’ll be including some amazing boutique hotels like usual) and the best restaurants to visit. I’ve also put together a section on when to visit, to help you avoid the worst of the monsoons and the temperature extremes of Southeast Asia.
So – let’s get into it shall we? Keep reading to begin planning the perfect 3-day Hanoi, Vietnam itinerary!
This site contains affiliate links. I may receive a small commission for purchases made through these links however, this has no impact on the integrity of my reviews. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
When to Visit Hanoi
There are two things you really need to be aware of when deciding on the best time to visit Hanoi. The first is the temperature; in its hottest months, the thermometer frequently hits the high 80-100s°F (30-40s°C) which can make anything other than hiding in your air-conditioned hotel room very challenging. The other is rainfall. Hanoi and all of Vietnam experience intense monsoon seasons, which can see rapid and dramatic downpours. You can certainly still visit during these times (and indeed it can be the cheapest time to go), but it’s best to expect to get wet.
Good thing umbrellas in Vietnam are relatively cheap so you’ll still likely be able to protect yourself in case you forget to pack one!
The Best Time to Visit Hanoi (to avoid the worst heat)
Vietnam’s summer season lasts from May to August and is when temperatures generally hit their hottest. Accompanied with sweltering humidity, it can be challenging to venture out in the hottest part of the day.
Spring from March to April and autumn from September to November offer the most pleasant temperatures for sightseeing, generally hovering around the mid-70s°F which is basically shorts and t-shirt weather without the extreme heat of summer. I visited this past April and the weather was bearable. It was in the high 80s °F to low 90s °F but I was just happy to be far away from the chill of San Francisco.
Winter in Hanoi, lasting from December to February, can get surprisingly chilly, with temperatures sometimes dropping into single figures. Fine for sightseeing in Hanoi, but if you’re looking to cruise nearby Halong Bay, or embark on a moped trip to the Ha Giang Loop, I recommend one of the shoulder seasons instead.
The Best Time to Visit Hanoi (to avoid the monsoons)
Hanoi’s rainy season lasts from May to September, with June through August typically the wettest months. Heavy showers and flooding can make more rural parts of north Vietnam impassable, but this is rarely a problem in Hanoi. Travelers generally prefer visiting during the dry season, from October to April. There is significantly less rainfall during this period, as well as clear skies that are ideal for sightseeing.
Best Places to Visit & Things to do in Hanoi
So, you’ve settled on when to visit Hanoi, but how are you going to fill your 3-day Hanoi itinerary when you arrive? I’ve put together a list of some of the must-visit attractions and things to do in Hanoi, so you can start planning your trip.
Stroll around Hoan Kiem Lake
This large freshwater lake is located in the heart of Hanoi and is something of a focal point for the city. Also known as the ‘Emerald Lake’ due to its green color, it is located in the city’s Old Quarter and the area surrounding the lake is often filled with entertainers, public Tai Chi sessions and locals and travelers alike mooching around the area.
Many of the city’s best restaurants, shops and bars are in the vicinity, and there is a temple dedicated to General Tran Huang Do, who fought off the Mongols in the 13th century.
Enjoy a beverage at the Note Coffee
Vietnam’s coffee culture is second to none, largely down to its long period of French colonial influence. In Hanoi, one of the best places to enjoy a traditional Vietnamese coffee is at Note Coffee, a somewhat narrow multi-story café located just a short walk from the Old Quarter.
The idea is simple, any guest at the café can write whatever they like down on a post it note and stick it on the walls of the establishment. Handwritten notes from travelers all across the globe, all of whom were once sat where you are right now!
Ps. If you’re thinking this is a tourist trap with rubbish, overpriced coffee, think again – it’s often labeled as one of the best coffee shops in Hanoi! I literally spent HOURS in here reading all the beautiful notes from folks around the world.
Eat your way across the city on a food tour
For any foodies looking to get to the heart of Hanoi’s cuisine, a dedicated food tour can make for a great day (or evening) as part of your itinerary. Led by a knowledgeable local guide, a good Hanoi food tour will take you to the city’s best and most vibrant markets, street food stalls and hidden gems in the Old Quarter and beyond. You will get to sample a range of iconic dishes such as pho and banh mi, as well as drinks like egg coffee, all in the best possible establishments!
My dad and I managed to snag some last minute tickets from GetYourGuide and were super pleased with our experience! For only $40 total, we got to see Train Street at night (more on that below) and left super full. I highly recommend booking this tour if you enjoy food and/or are maybe traveling solo and want to meet other folks who enjoy food!
Tuck into an authentic banh mi
Another legacy of French colonialism in Vietnam, the banh mi is something not to be missed. A fresh French baguette is filled with a meat such as pork and crunchy veg, herbs and chilli in a mouth-watering fusion of French and Vietnamese cuisines and cultures.
Don’t be surprised if you find yourself consuming several per day, it’s that hard to resist! Street food vendors are easy to find in Hanoi, and there are some specific recommendations to try. Banh Mi 25 in the Old Quarter is one, and Banh Mi Tram is another popular spot with tourists and locals alike.
Pay your respects at the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum
If you’ve been following me for awhile, you’ll know that I am a huge history nerd (particularly as it relates to war) which means visiting a history museum is always on my list!
The Vietnam War ended with US forces pulling out, and the country reunified under the Communist Party of Vietnam. Long time revolutionary and wartime leader Ho Chi Minh didn’t live to see this, he passed away in 1969. The leader now lies in state in a purpose-built mausoleum, a must-visit for anyone interested in Vietnam’s wartime history. Not far from the mausoleum, travelers can also visit the Presidential Palace, Ho Chi Minh’s stilt house and the One Pillar Pagoda, all holding significance for Vietnamese history.
If you’re looking for more insights, you can also book a half-day tour with a knowledgeable guide that includes a visit to the mausoleum and the One Pillar Pagoda.
Take a Halong Bay day trip
Around 100 miles from Hanoi (a drive of 2.5 – 3 hours) is Halong Bay, where lush green limestone islets rise out of the emerald waters, and there are all manner of ancient cave systems and floating markets to explore. Although we opted for 2 Day, 1 Night stay in Halong Bay via Athena Cruises, it is possible to do it in a day trip from Hanoi, as long as you don’t mind an early start!
Ps. Another great day trip option is a visit to Ninh Binh.
Tours are popular and can be booked in most hotels and hostels in the city for a reasonable price. A day trip will typically include a cruise on a large traditional junk boat, lunch and some form of activity, such as kayaking, or cave exploration. And you’ll be back in Hanoi in time for dinner!
If you end up having the time, I definitely recommend an overnight trip. That way you don’t have to rush and you get to witness incredible sunsets like this (pictured above) with the rock formations surrounding you.
Watch a unique water puppet theatre show
A unique art form to Hanoi, water puppetry has been around since the 11th century, and watching a show is a fun way to spend some time in the city. Puppeteers in traditional dress maneuver their wooden puppets over pools of water, creating a 3D effect with water splashes. Shows typically depict historical Vietnamese myths and legends and are accompanied by traditional music. The Thang Long Theatre is the most popular with visitors, offering shows daily.
Visit the one-of-a-kind Train Street in Old Quarter
Have you ever seen a train zip past just inches from houses? That’s the thrill of Train Street in Hanoi! Nestled in the Old Quarter, this unique spot features a railway track running through the middle of houses, cafes, and shops.
Be sure to check the train schedule (only a few passes a day) and find a safe spot to watch the locomotive roar by. It’s an adrenaline-pumping experience you won’t forget! Remember, respect the residents and businesses here – it’s their neighborhood after all.
Take in the spectacular St Joseph’s Cathedral
Dating to 1886, the neo-Gothic St Joseph’s Cathedral is one of Hanoi’s oldest and most famous landmarks, and well worth taking a walk to.
Reminiscent of the Paris’ Notre Dame, it features stained glass windows and stunning architecture. Entrance is restricted to mass, but a walk around the exterior followed by a refreshing drink can make for a great way to spend an hour during your time in the city.
Enjoy a unique egg coffee
Created in the 1940s during a milk shortage, today egg coffee is extremely popular not just in Hanoi, but throughout Vietnam. Vietnamese coffee is blended with a rich and creamy egg yolk mixture, creating a new take on the world’s most popular drink – think liquid tiramisu.
Head to the unassuming Café Giang, birthplace of egg coffee, to enjoy a warming cup, or delve into one of the hundreds of independent cafes in Hanoi’s Old Quarter and beyond.
Book a Vietnamese cooking class
Another great tour option for those looking to experience authentic Hanoi is to book a cooking class. Typically, this will involve heading to a local market to purchase ingredients with your guide, and then making your way to a communal kitchen where you and the rest of the group will enjoy a step-by-step tutorial to creating some iconic Vietnamese dishes, such as spring rolls and sticky rice. And yes, you will get to eat your creations for lunch. As always, I highly recommend booking via GetYourGuide for the best service and a knowledgeable guide/teacher.
Explore the Temple of Literature
Escape Hanoi’s buzz and enter a sanctuary of scholarship at the Temple of Literature. Founded in 1070, it’s Vietnam’s oldest university, boasting stunning architecture and tranquil gardens.
Wander courtyards lined with ancient stelae (stone tablets) and admire the ornate pavilions dedicated to Confucius and Vietnamese scholars. Spot local students seeking good luck by rubbing the heads of the stone turtles – a local tradition!
This serene escape offers a glimpse into Vietnam’s deep respect for education and its rich cultural heritage.
Where to Stay in Hanoi
I’ve also put together a short list of recommended accommodation options in Hanoi. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or the fifth, these are my recommendations on the best boutique hotels in Hanoi!
Capella Hanoi
Capella Hanoi: Housed in a grand building on a boulevard along Hoan Kiem Lake, the award-winning Capella Hanoi is one of the best 5-star hotels in the city.
The elegant lounge is reminiscent of old-world Europe, and each of the 47 rooms and suites oozes opulence. Rooms feature French balconies, themed styling, and beautiful furnishings.
The onsite restaurant, Capella Hanoi, is the only Michelin-star restaurant in the whole of Vietnam.
La Sinfonía del Rey Hotel & Spa
La Sinfonía del Rey Hotel & Spa: This boutique offering in the Old Quarter features a breath-taking sky bar with 360-degree views over Hoan Kiem Lake and Ngoc Son Temple. Serving a selection of wines, beers and exquisite cocktails, it offers an inviting ambience after a day of exploring.
All the rooms at La Sinfonía del Rey Hotel & Spa are equipped with air-conditioning and complimentary Wi-Fi, and a range of mouth-watering local and international dishes are served at The Rhythms Restaurant.
Salute Premium Hotel & Spa
Salute Premium Hotel & Spa: Rooms at the contemporary Salute Premium Hotel & Spa feature floor to ceiling windows, modern furnishings and amenities including air-conditioning, tea & coffee making facilities, chic hardwood floors and complimentary toiletries.
Guests can enjoy massages, traditional Vietnamese baths, and a range of other treatments at the spa, and dining is at the hotel restaurant, offering a buffet breakfast and a la carte fusion menu for lunch and dinner.
The West Hotel & Spa
The West Hotel & Spa: Featuring many of the amenities and services expected of a more glamorous hotel, The West Hotel & Spa is a great option for those travelers to Hanoi looking to keep their costs down.
There’s an onsite spa and restaurant serving Asian and European classic dishes. Rooms feature ensuite bathrooms with complimentary toiletries, flat-screen TV, wood-panelled flooring and air-conditioning.
Best Restaurants in Hanoi
Besides the affordability, one of the best parts about Vietnam (and Asia in general) is the food. I could easily write an entire blog post on food in Vietnam alone (I guess I know what my next post will be) but have narrowed things down to my favorites below. It’s no surprise that Hanoi is home to an excellent food scene and a wealth of fantastic dining options!
Bún chả Hương Liên
In 2016, then-US president Barack Obama at a meal in Bún chả Hương Liên with TV chef Anthony Bourdain. The table they sat at is now encased in glass and the restaurant itself has become a popular spot for tourists in the city. And this isn’t just a tourist trap – you wouldn’t know it was anything special from the outside, prices are very low, and the food is excellent. The Obama Combo includes fresh bun cha, a crab spring roll and a local beer for less than $4.
Xới Cơm
Authentic North Vietnamese cuisine is served at this small, restaurant, where the vintage interior is as impressive as the food itself. With just 14 tables, and styled on traditional Hanoi houses of the 1980s, it’s a step back in time. The menu is refreshed on a daily basis and uses only the freshest local ingredients. Prices are affordable and the restaurant has been named consistently in the Michelin Guide as one of the best in the city.
La Terrasse Du Metropole
For an extravagant meal, head to La Terrasse Du Metropole, housed in the exclusive Sofitel Legend Metropole Hotel. Inspired by Parisien bistros, the menu is filled with classic French dishes such as steak-frites, coq au vin and oysters. Located in the French Quarter, it boasts an enviable and easily accessible location.
3-Days in Hanoi: Final Thoughts
The best 3-day Hanoi itinerary is one that involves discovering the best that the Vietnamese capital has to offer, eating fantastic food and staying in an excellent hotel that meets your individual tastes and budget.
Although three days is enough time in the city to see most of the main attractions, don’t be surprised if you find yourself staying longer. Whether it’s uncovering Vietnam War history, paying your respects at the Mausoleum of Ho Chi Minh or strolling through Hanoi’s lush green spaces and around its lakes, this city is one that is sure to delight you during your travels.
Did you get a chance to visit Hanoi? Let me know about your trip in the comments below!
Visiting other parts of Asia?
Check out my other travel guides on Asia here.
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