The Perfect Weekend in Hanoi

Saturday Morning – Explore Old Hanoi

When in Hanoi, it’s customary to start your day with a delicious bowl of phở at Phở Thin, which has been a popular spot for over 40 years. 

Next, take a stroll around Hoan Kiem Lake. A 15th-century legend says a giant turtle in the lake recovered the magical sword Emperor Ly Thai To used to defeat the Chinese. On the northern side, the picturesque Ngoc Son Temple sits on a small island.

To explore the Old Quarter, consider taking a cyclo tour and visit the Silk Street (Hàng Gai) for some shopping. In the afternoon, head to the Sofitel Legend Metropole for a Vietnamese buffet lunch at Spices Garden. If you’re looking for a more budget-friendly option, check out the street stalls on Ngõ Tràng Tiền for delicious and affordable meals.

Saturday Afternoon – Discover Fascinating History

Time to eat! Head over to Sofitel Legend Metropole for a delicious Vietnamese buffet lunch at Spices Garden. Priced at 780,000 VND, it’s worth trying a wide variety of fantastic Vietnamese dishes. After that, take some time to explore the hotel’s beautiful interiors.

Also, if you’re looking for a more budget-friendly lunch option, you can visit the street stalls on Ngõ Tràng Tiền, where you can enjoy tasty noodles, fried rice, and authentic Hanoian bún đậu for just two dollars a plate.

After lunch, consider taking a stroll and maybe enjoying a coffee along the street. Then, go to your next destination, the Temple of Literature. This temple was built to honour Confucius and dates back to 1076. It’s also the location of Vietnam’s oldest university. Take in the traditional-style architecture, the ponds, and the ancient stone stelae.

Saturday Evening – Like a Local

If you fancy street food, take a quick stroll to Lý Văn Phức for barbecue chicken with a side of grilled honey bread and spicy chilli sauce. Or grab a cab to Ngũ Xã Street on Truc Bach Lake to try the capital’s famous phở cuốn rolls and other local favourites.

As night descends, head back to the intersection of Tạ Hiện and Lương Ngọc Quyến. This is “Bia Hoi Corner,” where pubs spill out onto the street in true Vietnamese fashion. Park yourself on a little stool and order a glass of freshly brewed beer (15,000 VND) straight from the barrels.

Sunday Morning – Hanoian Traditions

Kickstart day two with a brew unique to Hanoi, egg coffee or cà phê trứng. The founder father of Giảng Cafe is none other than the creator of the recipe himself. Giang’s substitution of fresh milk for whisked eggs during French War food shortages birthed this famous hybrid.

Quickly make your way to the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, an imposing marble stronghold situated in the centre of the grandiose Ba Dinh Square. If you want a chance to see the embalmed body of Ho Chi Minh, dress modestly and come early: the last entry is at 10:15 a.m.

The mausoleum shuts down annually between September 4 to November 4, when the body is sent to Russia for upkeep.

Bún chả became an overnight sensation after Anthony Bourdain and President Barack Obama launched Bún chả Hương Liên on the show ‘No Reservations’. Dip the cold rice vermicelli and the fresh herbs in the bowl of sauce, pork belly and grilled pork patties, and enjoy.

Sunday Afternoon – Vietnamese Culture in A Snapshot

The Museum of Ethnology is located a 20-minute taxi drive from the city center. It is dedicated to showcasing the traditions of Vietnam’s 54 ethnic groups. With a 40,000 VND ticket, you can access all areas of the three-part complex, including a garden with life-size replicas of ethnic homes.

TIP: Don’t miss the Water Puppet theatre performance at 2 p.m.

On your way back to town, stop at Tay Ho Lake, also known as West Lake. The 17-km shoreline is dotted with trendy cafes, ancient pagodas, and beautiful gardens, making it ideal for cyclists. If you need to rent a bike, visit the Hanoi Bicycle Collective, where you can rent a bike for up to six hours for 60,000 VND.

Sunday Evening – A New Perspective

Typical Tour in Hanoi. Click here!