How to Spend Three Days in Hanoi – Adventure Through Vietnam’s Historic Capital

Spend your first day in Hanoi savouring delicious Vietnamese food while getting your fill of the country’s rich history. The Old Quarter, the ancient heart of Hanoi, has a lot to offer for a history buff. It has been the commercial centre of the city for centuries. All those years have left their mark on the Old Quarter.

You can start your day with a delicious cup of coffee – the coffee scene in Vietnam is pretty amazing. The Old Quarter, in particular, has a flourishing coffee scene. All over the city are cafes and coffee houses serving aromatic Vietnamese coffee. Take your pick and indulge in a hearty cuppa before you begin the day’s adventure. If you’re a Harry Potter lover, there’s a themed café for Potter heads!

Now, onwards to adventure!

The Old Quarter is the best place to discover Hanoi’s culture and history. In fact, it’s the main tourist hub in Hanoi. There are plenty of pagodas and temples you would want to explore. Plus, the market scene is pretty remarkable. There are also plenty of malls and shopping centres where you can shop till you drop. To make the most of your time and get insights into the local cuisine, you could also join a street food tour.

Once you’ve gorged on street food to your heart’s content, head over to Hoan Kiem Lake. The lake is a scenic spot where you can enjoy a stroll and take in the sights. During your walk, you’ll also encounter Ngoc Son Temple, the Huc Bridge, and Turtle Tower.

Since you have only three days in Hanoi, it would help to stay at a hotel located close to the city’s attractions. Hanoi is a popular destination, so you have plenty of options. Hanoi serviced apartments, for one, are popular with travellers looking for a home away from home. Your options include Somerset Grand Hanoi.

For more sightseeing and fascinating discovery, head to the Ba Dinh district on your second day. You’ll find a few historical buildings here. Ho Chi Minh Complex, for one, is a must-visit for anyone visiting Vietnam. The complex is dedicated to the national hero Ho Chi Minh. Inside the complex is a mausoleum that holds the preserved body of Ho Chi Minh. The stunning, manicured gardens are well-maintained, offering you a peaceful retreat. The complex is only open from 7.30 to 10.30 AM, so you might have to wake up a little earlier than usual if you mean to visit.

The next is Thăng Long Imperial Citadel. A citadel of a long history that goes back to the 11th century, Thăng Long Imperial Citadel demands at least two hours of your time. Inside, you’ll find an intriguing collection of artefacts, museums, and buildings, all bearing great historical and cultural significance.

For lush, green vistas, visit the Temple of Literature. Despite its name, it’s not a temple; it’s a university. In fact, it’s the first university in Vietnam. It’s beautiful and serene here, posing a clear contrast to the city’s chaotic character.

If you have more time left, be sure to add the French Quarter and Hanoi Train Street to your itinerary.

Take a cooking class to get into the nitty gritty of Vietnamese cuisine. You can choose from a variety of classes. A typical cooking class begins with a tour of the markets, where you’ll collect the necessary ingredients to make local favourites. Once you’re done, you’ll be back in the kitchen to learn the art of Vietnamese cuisine. The best part is that you get to try whatever you make in the class. Then, walk it all off at the West Lake, the biggest freshwater lake in the city. To go full circle around the lake, you need at least two hours.