Overview
This article is meant to summarize the must-see and must-do things in Vietnam's former capital, through my eyes.
My stay in Hanoi was part of a longer journey, which I'll briefly outline at the end, and cover in more detail in other articles in the Vietnam section.
I love Asia.
I love everything about this part of the world. Maybe because it’s so different from the West, or perhaps because I’m drawn to things that contrast with my own norms. Daily life here is both different (and in some ways, surprisingly similar).
Before stepping foot in Hanoi, I imagined bustling streets filled with motorbikes, street food stalls, and the weathered faces of elders who had lived through a country in war until 1975 against global giants.
And honestly, that's pretty much what I found.
Accommodation
I chose a central location so I could explore on foot. I stayed at Hotel Tirant, which was great and offered an international breakfast. I'd make the same choice again.
Itinerary and tips
Day 1
I arrived at the international airport in the early afternoon and, after clearing customs, took a taxi into the city center in about 45 minutes. As usual, I couldn’t relax right away; the city's energy was just too strong! So, I dropped off my bags and headed out.
I immediately got lost in the nearby market streets, but my first target was to visit the famous Train Street. Everyone wants to see the train pass between the houses—it's such an iconic Hanoi image!
But few succeed because access has been restricted due to accidents.
Here’s a little secret: there’s still a way in. Enter "Train Street" on any map app, and you'll end up at a crossing that used to be easily accessible but is now guarded 24/7.
Just before the crossing, there’s a shop selling electrical supplies and light bulbs.
Walk in, say “Hi, Train please,” and they'll lead you through the back of the store. Boom! You’ll find yourself in a little café right on the tracks. Buy a drink (support the local business) and wait for the train.
I went there two nights, and it worked both times as if it were the most normal thing in the world. Needless to say, it’s a must-see.
The train usually passes between 6:00 PM and 7:30 PM (at least during my visit).
With some time to spare, I squeezed in a quick visit to the Bach Ma Temple. It was closing when I arrived, but it's worth a short stop. That said, throughout my journey, Vietnam didn't really strike me as a deeply spiritual or mystical destination, maybe due to the lingering influence of a communist regime that sought to limit religion.
Next, I headed to Hang Dao Market, where I ended up at a street BBQ.
I sat on tiny stools (seriously, they felt like they were for kids) and let the waiter guide me through the menu since I was a bit lost. It turned out to be a fun, laid-back evening. Highly recommended!
Day 2
Hanoi is a big city, but it's manageable in three ways: with a guide (they’re affordable and knowledgeable), on foot, or—if you're brave—by renting a scooter. But be warned, you'll need to be cautious with that option.
I chose a mix of the first two. I had a guide but did most of my exploring on foot.
After breakfast, my guide picked me up, and within a 2 km walk through Hanoi’s charming streets, we arrived at the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum—an imposing marble and granite structure shaped like a stylized lotus. The atmosphere here is both austere and solemn.
We then walked to the Tran Quoc Pagoda by the West Lake. It’s a good stop for some photos. Another must-see is the Temple of Literature. While it didn’t have a strict religious vibe, its decorations are extraordinary.
In the afternoon, after grabbing a street-side Pho, we headed to the Vietnam Women's Museum, which showcases the critical role of women in Vietnam's past and present. We thanked the guide, and I continued exploring solo.
I wandered through the 36 Streets area and explored the alleys dedicated to silk, flowers, and candles.
This walk was unforgettable: some streets narrow into tiny, maze-like alleys with the famous "tube houses."
For dinner, I went to Hang Be Market, where street stalls offer endless options. I opted for some protein, only to find my plate covered in cilantro—my most dreaded herb! Unfortunately, it’s used quite often in Vietnamese cuisine.
I headed back to my hotel after covering over 20 km on foot, but at a relaxed pace.
Day 3
This morning, I met up with my guide again, who picked us up by car to visit the Thay Pagoda, a pilgrimage site with romantic views and peaceful surroundings. It's worth visiting only if you have no other major temples on your itinerary.
Keep in mind that the visit takes up at least half a day.
Back in Hanoi, it was time to satisfy my ever-present coffee craving! I walked to Hoan Kiem Lake and particularly to Cafe Pho Co, where I finally tried the famous egg coffee—strange but delicious. I followed it up with a traditional Vietnamese drip coffee, with each drop slowly falling from the unique filter. Unmissable.
I spent my last evening wandering the Old Quarter again—there’s simply no way to describe its vibe accurately. It’s like a mix of decayed French charm, fully embraced by the locals, who use every corner for living and business. I think the Vietnamese love socializing; there’s more interaction than I expected.
My impressions
I stayed in Hanoi for 3 days—well, 2 and a half, really. While I wouldn’t say that’s enough time, it’s a fair amount if you’re planning a two-week trip to this amazing country. It gives you a solid taste of the city and its rhythms.
Often, we arrive with an idea of what a place will be like, only to have that idea disproved. But Hanoi meets your expectations. You imagine it as chaotic, somewhat worn, energetic, and full of street food and markets—and that’s exactly what it is.
You leave feeling satisfied.
Food
Vietnamese cuisine is really good—if only they didn’t put cilantro in so many dishes… Just kidding, of course, that’s just a personal preference.
Don’t miss out on street Pho, street BBQ, and steamed spring rolls!
Top Picks:
-Train Street
-Old Town
My complete itinerary trip
(More Detailed Blogs Coming Soon):
- Arrival in Hanoi
- Explore Hanoi
- Explore Hanoi
- Visit Duong Lam Village & take the train to Lao Cai
- Lao Cai & Sapa
- Sapa
- Sapa & Return to Hanoi
- Visit Ninh Binh
- Cruise in Halong Bay
- Departure for Ho Chi Minh City
- Explore Ho Chi Minh City
- Visit Tay Ninh & Cu Chi Tunnels
- Head to Ben Tre
- Explore Ben Tre & Can Tho
- Visit Can Tho & Return
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