Hanoi in 4 Days: Culture, Adventure & Nature

Experience Vietnam's vibrant capital without breaking the bank in Hanoi.

21 June 2023

Hanoi, Vietnam is a great destination for budget travelers who want to explore and experience a vibrant and diverse culture. Visitors can enjoy delicious street food, visit historic landmarks, and immerse themselves in local traditions. With affordable accommodations, transportation, and activities, Hanoi offers an unforgettable adventure for those on a limited budget.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Exploring the Old Quarter

  • Check-in at Hanoi Guest House, a budget-friendly hotel located in the heart of the Old Quarter
  • Stroll around the lively maze of streets in the Old Quarter and get lost in its charming chaos
  • Visit Ngoc Son Temple situated on Hoan Kiem Lake, known for its ornate architecture and historical significance
  • Satisfy your taste buds with a bowl of bun cha at Bun Cha Hang Manh, a local food hotspot
  • End the day with a chilled local beer at Bia Hoi Junction and mingle with locals
Day 2

Cultural Immersion

  • Take a morning visit to the Ho Chi Minh Complex, which comprises of Ho Chi Minh's Mausoleum, Presidential Palace and Stilt House
  • Ignite your curiosity at the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology to learn about the country's diverse cultures and traditions
  • Indulge in a hot bowl of pho at Pho Thin for lunch
  • Spend an afternoon at the Temple of Literature, Vietnam's first national university where you can bask in the tranquil ambience
  • Immerse in the chaos of the Long Bien Market and grasp a glimpse of the local's daily life
Day 3

Nature Escape

  • Head 23km southwest of Hanoi to visit the peaceful and scenic Duong Lam ancient village, known for its historical buildings and culture preservation
  • Cycle around the Tay Phuong Pagoda, which boasts of ancient architecture and breathtaking views
  • Have lunch at the local restaurant, Lam Bao Ngoc, which offers authentic countryside cuisine
  • Spend the afternoon getting lost in the natural beauty of Ba Vi National Park
  • Try the famous grilled mantis shrimp at Quan Cua Dinh restaurant for dinner with a view over Long Bien Bridge
Day 4

Adventure Day

  • Take a day tour to Halong Bay, a UNESCO Heritage site where thousands of limestone cliffs rise up from the emerald waters.
  • Enjoy a seafood lunch on board while cruising Halong Bay and visit some of its most iconic spots
  • Visit the Sung Sot Cave with a natural guide
  • Spend time kayaking around the beautiful nature
  • Return to Hanoi for a nightcap at Nê Cocktail Bar
  • Bon Voyage!

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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