Weekend in Hanoi: Culture, Cuisine, and Charm

Explore the vibrant culture and rich history of Hanoi, Vietnam.

03 May 2023

Hanoi offers a unique blend of modernity and tradition, making it a wonderful destination for tourists. Visitors can explore ancient temples, wander through bustling markets, and sample delicious street food while taking in the city’s vibrant energy. The city’s rich history and unique culture leave an indelible mark on every visitor, making it an unforgettable destination.

Travel plan

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Day 1

Exploring the Old Quarter

  • Hotel: The Chi Boutique Hotel a charming boutique hotel in the heart of the Old Quarter.
  • Start the day with a bowl of pho at Pho Thin, one of the best spots in the city for this Vietnamese breakfast staple.
  • Take a stroll through the narrow streets of the Old Quarter, stopping at traditional shops selling silk, handicrafts and street food.
  • Visit the Temple of Literature, Vietnam's first university, and immerse yourself in the country's rich history and culture.
  • Catch a water puppet show at Thang Long Water Puppet Theater, a traditional art form unique to Vietnam.
  • Wander around Hoan Kiem Lake and take in the stunning views of Ngoc Son Temple, a small island in the middle of the lake.
  • Head back to the hotel for Happy Hour at the Chi Bar, where you can sip on a Hanoi beer while watching the bustling streets below.
Day 2

Culture, Food and History

  • Start the day with a delicious Bun Cha breakfast grilled pork served with sweet and sour fish sauce and vermicelli noodles. Try it at Bun Cha Hang Quat, a local's favourite.
  • Visit the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and pay your respects to Vietnam's founding father. Don't miss One Pillar Pagoda, a unique structure built on a single stone pillar.
  • Head to the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology and learn about the country's diverse culture and ethnic groups.
  • Take a cooking class and learn how to make traditional Vietnamese dishes like spring rolls and pho.
  • Relax at Westlake, a tranquil oasis in the heart of the city, and sip on a Vietnamese coffee while enjoying the scenic views.
  • Have your final meal at Highway 4, a restaurant that serves innovative Vietnamese cuisine with a modern twist.
  • Hanoi is a city full of character and charm, and these two days will just give you a taste of what it has to offer. Don't be afraid to get lost in the maze-like streets of the Old Quarter or strike up a conversation with a local, you never know what hidden gems you might discover.

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Hanoi, Vietnam by plane is to fly into Noi Bai International Airport, located approximately 28 kilometers from the city center. Multiple airlines such as Vietnam Airlines, Qantas Airways, and Air Asia operate flights to Hanoi from major cities around the world.

Car

Driving to Hanoi, Vietnam is an option for those who have access to a vehicle, but it may not be the safest or most convenient method. The main entry point from neighboring countries such as China and Laos is the Friendship Pass, which requires drivers to obtain the necessary permits and documentation beforehand.

Train

While it is possible to travel to Hanoi, Vietnam by train, it is not the most efficient method. Trains from neighboring countries such as China and Cambodia may stop at Hanoi Railway Station, but it is still a long and slow journey due to infrastructure limitations.

Boat

While Hanoi, Vietnam does not have a direct port for international travel, it is possible to take a boat from other coastal cities in Vietnam such as Halong Bay or Haiphong. These cities have ports where boats and ferries can transport passengers to Hanoi along the Red River Delta.

Bus

Traveling to Hanoi, Vietnam by bus is possible from neighboring cities and provinces, but it is not the most comfortable or efficient option. Bus stations such as My Dinh Bus Station and Giap Bat Bus Station serve as major hubs for public buses in Hanoi and its surroundings.

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