Welcome to Hanoi! If you’re reading this, you’re probably planning your next adventure in Vietnam’s lively capital. Hanoi is a city where old-world charm and modern hustle collide in the best possible way. Whether you’re a foodie, a culture vulture, or a sightseeing enthusiast, there’s something here for everyone. As a local, let me show you the best way to spend 48 hours in this vibrant city. Ready? Let’s dive in!
Read more: Exploring Vietnam: A 15-Day Travel Itinerary
Mục Lục
Day 1: Dive Into Hanoi’s Rich History and Culture
Morning: A Journey Through Time at Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum
Kick off your first day in Hanoi with a visit to the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum. It’s an iconic landmark dedicated to Vietnam’s revered leader, Ho Chi Minh. Arrive early (around 7:30 AM) to avoid the crowds and witness the flag-raising ceremony. You can also explore the Ho Chi Minh Museum and his stilt house nearby, which offer fascinating insights into his life and Vietnam’s fight for independence.
Pro Tip: Dress modestly when visiting the Mausoleum, as it’s a site of great respect. No shorts or sleeveless tops allowed!
Breakfast Stop: Phở Gia Truyền Bát Đàn
No visit to Hanoi is complete without trying a bowl of Phở – Vietnam’s famous noodle soup. Head to Phở Gia Truyền Bát Đàn (no.49 Bat Dan street), one of the city’s best pho restaurants, located in the Old Quarter. Their broth is rich, flavorful, and perfect for energizing you for the day ahead. Order a steaming bowl of phở bò (beef noodle soup) and experience the flavors that put Hanoi on the global food map.
Late Morning: Explore the Old Quarter’s Hidden Gems
After breakfast, it’s time to get lost in the maze of streets that make up Hanoi’s Old Quarter. This historic neighborhood is the heart and soul of the city, filled with bustling markets, colonial architecture, and street vendors selling everything from silk scarves to fresh fruit. Wander through narrow alleys and immerse yourself in the local culture.
Don’t miss Train Street, where you can watch trains squeeze through impossibly tight spaces between houses. Grab a coffee from one of the quaint cafés along the tracks and watch the spectacle unfold.
Fun Fact: The Old Quarter’s streets are named after the goods that were traditionally sold there. For example, Hàng Gai is famous for silk, while Hàng Bạc is known for silver.
Lunch: Bún Chả Hàng Quạt
For lunch, treat yourself to another Hanoi specialty: Bún Chả. This dish features grilled pork patties served with vermicelli noodles, fresh herbs, and a tangy dipping sauce. Head to Bún chả Hàng Quạt at 74 Hang Quat street for a local favorite. This no-frills eatery serves some of the best bun cha in the city. Pro tip: Order an extra portion of nem (spring rolls) on the side. You won’t regret it!
Afternoon: Soak in the Culture at the Temple of Literature
After filling up on bún chả, head over to the Temple of Literature, one of Hanoi’s most tranquil and historic sites. This ancient temple was built in 1070 and is dedicated to Confucius and Vietnam’s scholars. It was also the site of Vietnam’s first university. Wander through its courtyards, lush gardens, and serene ponds. You might even catch a glimpse of local students in graduation robes taking photos to celebrate their academic achievements.
Insider Tip: If you’re lucky enough to visit during exam season, you’ll see many students coming to pray for good luck. It’s a lovely local tradition that adds to the temple’s charm.
Coffee Break: Egg Coffee at Giảng Café
Need an afternoon pick-me-up? Try one of Hanoi’s quirkiest yet tastiest beverages: egg coffee. This creamy concoction is made with egg yolk, sugar, condensed milk, and robust Vietnamese coffee. The result? A rich, velvety drink that’s more like a dessert. Head to Giảng Café at 39 Nguyen Huu Huan street, the birthplace of egg coffee, to sample this iconic drink.
Local Insight: Egg coffee may sound unusual, but trust me, it’s delicious! Think of it as a Vietnamese take on tiramisu in liquid form.
Late Afternoon: Visit the Iconic Hoan Kiem Lake and Ngoc Son Temple
As the day winds down, take a leisurely stroll around Hoàn Kiếm Lake. This picturesque lake is located in the heart of the city and is a favorite spot for locals to exercise, chat with friends, or simply enjoy the view. Cross the iconic red Thê Húc Bridge to visit Ngọc Sơn Temple, which sits on a small island in the lake. The temple is dedicated to a legendary general and is a peaceful spot to escape the city’s hustle and bustle.
Photography Tip: The best time to capture stunning photos of Hoan Kiem Lake is during the golden hour, just before sunset.
Dinner: Chả Cá Thăng Long
For dinner, treat yourself to another Hanoi specialty: chả cá. This dish features grilled fish seasoned with turmeric and dill, served with vermicelli noodles, herbs, and peanuts. Chả Cá Thăng Long at 19 Duong Thanh street is the go-to place to try this dish. The fish is cooked right at your table, and the flavors are out of this world.
Local Tip: When in doubt, always follow the locals. If a restaurant is crowded, you know it’s good!
Evening: Watch a Water Puppet Show
End your first day in Hanoi with a water puppet show at the Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre. This traditional Vietnamese art form dates back to the 11th century and features colorful puppets performing on water, accompanied by live music. It’s a fun and entertaining way to learn more about Vietnamese culture and folklore.
Day 2: Dive Into Hanoi’s Food and Local Experiences
Morning: Street Food Adventure at Đồng Xuân Market Alley
Start your second day with a bang by exploring Đồng Xuân Market Alley, located right next to Dong Xuan Market, very close to its entrance. Dong Xuan Market Alley may be short, spanning less than 200 meters, but it’s packed with an impressive variety of food stalls offering unique and flavorful dishes. These eateries, tucked under makeshift tarps, are always bustling with locals and visitors alike. Many of these stalls have been serving up their specialties for decades, ensuring that the flavors are both authentic and steeped in tradition. This alley is a paradise for street food lovers, with vendors selling everything from bánh cuốn (steamed rice rolls) to nem rán (fried spring rolls). Grab a plate of banh cuon stuffed with minced pork and mushrooms, topped with crispy shallots. Pair it with a side of Vietnamese iced coffee for the ultimate breakfast experience.
Pro Tip: The alley can be overwhelming, so go with an adventurous spirit and try something new!
Mid-Morning: Discover Hanoi’s Art Scene at the Vietnam Fine Arts Museum
After fueling up, head to the Vietnam Fine Arts Museum. This museum showcases traditional and contemporary Vietnamese art, from ancient sculptures to modern paintings. It’s a great way to dive deeper into the country’s rich artistic heritage. Take your time to appreciate the different exhibits, and you’ll leave with a newfound appreciation for Vietnam’s creative spirit.
Lunch: Banh Mi 25
It’s time for another Hanoi classic: the bánh mì. This French-inspired sandwich features a crispy baguette filled with various meats, pickled vegetables, cilantro, and chili. Banh Mi 25 (25 Hang Ca street) is a local favorite, offering a variety of fillings, from traditional pate and pork to more modern options like grilled chicken or vegetarian. Grab one to go and enjoy it while you continue your exploration of the city.
Afternoon: Visit the Ethnology Museum
In the afternoon, make your way to the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology. This museum provides a fascinating look into the diverse ethnic groups that call Vietnam home. The outdoor area features traditional houses from various ethnic minorities, while the indoor exhibits showcase artifacts, clothing, and customs from different regions. It’s an eye-opening experience that gives you a broader understanding of Vietnam’s cultural diversity.
Fun Fact: Vietnam is home to 54 different ethnic groups, each with its own unique traditions and customs.
Coffee Break: Cộng Café
Before heading to your next destination, stop by Cộng Café for a quick coffee break. This café chain is known for its vintage décor and relaxed atmosphere. Try their coconut coffee, a refreshing blend of creamy coconut milk and strong Vietnamese coffee. It’s the perfect pick-me-up before your next adventure.
Late Afternoon: Take a Cyclo Ride Around the Old Quarter
Now that you’ve refueled, why not experience the Old Quarter from a different perspective? Hop on a cyclo, a three-wheeled bicycle taxi, and take a leisurely ride through the narrow streets. Your driver will pedal you around while you sit back and soak in the sights, sounds, and smells of Hanoi. It’s a fun and relaxing way to explore the city like a local.
Local Tip: Bargain for the price before hopping on a cyclo. A 30-minute ride around the Old Quarter should cost around 150,000 VND.
Dinner: Quan An Ngon
For your last dinner in Hanoi, head to Quan An Ngon located at 18 Phan Boi Chau street, a popular restaurant that offers a variety of traditional Vietnamese dishes in a charming setting. The menu includes everything from bún riêu (crab noodle soup) to bánh xèo (Vietnamese pancakes). It’s the perfect place to sample a little bit of everything. Enjoy your meal in the open-air courtyard surrounded by twinkling lights – a magical way to end your stay.
Evening: Bia Hơi Corner
End your trip with a quintessential Hanoi experience: a night out at Bia Hơi Corner. Located at the intersection of Ta Hien and Luong Ngoc Quyen streets, this spot is famous for its cheap, fresh beer (bia hoi) and lively atmosphere. Grab a plastic stool, order a cold glass of bia hoi, and soak in the lively energy of Hanoi’s nightlife. It’s the perfect way to toast to an unforgettable two days in the city.
Hanoi is a city that never fails to impress, from its rich history and culture to its incredible food and vibrant streets. In just 48 hours, you can experience a little bit of everything that makes this city so special. Whether you’re exploring the Old Quarter, sipping on egg coffee, or trying new dishes like bun cha and cha ca, there’s always something exciting waiting around the corner.
So, if you’re wondering “what to do in Hanoi?”, the answer is simple: dive in, explore, and enjoy every moment. This city has a way of capturing your heart, and I guarantee that your 48 hours here will be filled with unforgettable memories. Safe travels, and I hope to see you again in Hanoi soon!
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