The first sunny days of summer are an ideal time to explore Hanoi with a budget-friendly itinerary that still offers a full cultural and culinary experience. Below is a suggested one-day itinerary for exploring Hanoi, combining visits to prominent inner-city attractions with experiences of the capital’s distinctive culture and cuisine.
MORNING: DISCOVERING ANCIENT HANOI CAPITAL
1. Pho Bat Dan
Address: 49 Bat Dan Street, Hoan Kiem District, Ha Noi.
Opening time: 6.00 a.m – 10.00 a.m, 6.00 p.m – 8.30 p.m.
Located on Bat Dan Street, Pho Bat Dan is one of Hanoi’s most renowned long-standing eateries, boasting over 70 years of history. Whether morning or afternoon, the restaurant is always bustling, with many patrons willing to queue for a bowl of pho that embodies the essence of old Hanoi. What makes Pho Bat Dan famous is not just its status as an iconic Hanoi dish but also its nearly preserved traditional flavor.
Image: Pho Bat Dan is not just a dish – it’s a unique cultural experience of Hanoi.
The broth is clear and naturally sweet, simmered from beef bones and marrow. The beef is tender and clean, the rice noodles are chewy and fragrant. The restaurant notably does not use industrial seasonings – only bone broth and a touch of fish sauce to preserve the authentic flavor.
Another special feature that sets Pho Bat Dan apart is that there are no waitstaff. Every customer must queue, place their order, pay, and carry their own bowl to the table. Though slightly inconvenient, this self-service system adds a distinctive charm and traditional character to the restaurant.
2. Hanoi Flag Tower
Address: 28A Dien Bien Phu Street, Ba Dinh District, Ha Noi.
Opening time: 9.00 a.m – 5.00 p.m (Except for Monday).
The Hanoi Flag Tower is located on Dien Bien Phu Street in Ba Dinh District. Built during the Nguyen Dynasty on the former grounds of the Tam Mon Citadel from the Le Dynasty, it is one of the few historic structures that remained intact after the war. Beyond its unique architectural value, the Hanoi Flag Tower is a sacred symbol of the capital, deeply connected to many significant milestones in the nation’s history. It was once the focal point of the entire country during the momentous time when Vietnam regained its independence.
Image: Flag Tower is a familiar destination for both locals and domestic and international visitors when exploring Hanoi.
With a beauty that is both historic and dignified, the Hanoi Flag Tower is not only a source of pride for the capital’s residents but also a must-see landmark on any journey to discover Hanoi.
3. Hoa Lo Prison
Address: 01 Hoa Lo Street, Hoan Kiem District, Ha Noi.
Opening time: 8.00 a.m – 5.00 p.m, 7.00 p.m – 9.00 p.m.
Hoa Lo Prison Prison is one of the most prominent historical sites in the heart of Hanoi. It bears witness to the hardships and indomitable spirit of thousands of Vietnamese revolutionary soldiers during the French colonial period. Located on Hoa Lo Street in Hoan Kiem District, the prison sits in the very center of the city, close to many famous tourist attractions such as Hoan Kiem Lake and St. Joseph’s Cathedral.
Image: The front of Hoa Lo Prison in Ha Noi.
Visitors can choose between daytime or nighttime tours depending on their schedule and preferences.
For the day tour, priced at only 30,000 VND/person, guests can explore each area of the prison, listen to audio guides narrating the harsh prison life, and view original artifacts such as personal items and prisoners’ clothing.
Meanwhile, the night tour, priced between 300,000 and 499,000 VND/person, offers an immersive experience with sound and lighting effects, along with live acting performances that vividly recreate the heroic struggles of revolutionary soldiers.
At the end of the tour, visitors receive special souvenirs such as tea, cakes, and almond jelly made from the last remaining terminalia tree (cây bàng) in the prison courtyard.
4. Banh uot Ban Me (Vietnamese steamed rice rolls)
Address: 45 Lo Duc Street, Hai Ba Trung District, Ha Noi.
Opening time: 11.00 a.m – 2.00 p.m, 5.00 p.m – 10.00 p.m.
Banh uot Ban Me is a familiar dish in Central and Southern Vietnam, but has only become popular in Hanoi in recent years. This eatery is considered one of the first places to introduce the dish to the capital.
Image: The unique eating style of Banh uot Ban Me.
It is soft with a light chew, freshly steamed on the spot, brushed with scallion oil, sprinkled with dried shrimp, and neatly arranged into small plates. After the meal, each diner is left with an impressive stack of empty plates in front of them.
AFTERNOON: STROLLING THE STREETS & EXPERIENCING CULTURE
1. Temple of Literature
Address: 58 Quoc Tu Giam Street, Dong Da District, Ha Noi.
Opening time: 7.30 a.m – 5.30 p.m (in summer), 8.00 p.m – 5.00 p.m (in winter).
In the afternoon, visitors can stop by Temple of Literature, one of the capital’s most prominent historical and cultural sites. It is considered Vietnam’s first university, built in 1073 during the reign of King Lý Nhân Tông. It is aimed at honoring notable scholars such as Chu Văn An, the exemplary principal of Temple of Literature, representing Vietnam’s tradition of valuing education and moral virtue.
Image: Temple of Literature is a symbol of the tradition of valuing education, and also a cultural and historical destination for both domestic and international visitors.
This place is not only a cultural destination but also a popular spot where many students come to pray for good luck before exams.
2. Cyclo ride around Hanoi’s Old Quarter
This slow-paced ride offers a unique perspective to soak in the vibrant daily life — from lively markets and ancient architecture to street food vendors and colorful shops. Then, you will have a chance to feel the gentle breeze as your cyclo driver expertly navigates through the maze of streets, sharing stories of Hanoi’s rich history and culture along the way. It’s a charming, relaxing way to explore the city’s heritage and capture unforgettable moments.
Image: Cyclo ride around Hanoi’s Old Quarter is one of the most memorable experience for tourists.
Perfect for travelers seeking a nostalgic, authentic Hanoi experience, the cyclo ride combines comfort, culture, and a touch of romance in the heart of the capital.
3. Hang Da Market
Address: Hang Da Street, Hoan Kiem District, Ha Noi.
Opening time: 5.00 a.m – 8.00 p.m.
Amid the bustling streets of Hanoi’s Old Quarter, Hang Da Market stands out as a special destination, attracting the curiosity of many foreign visitors. Unlike the noisy and crowded markets elsewhere, Hang Da Market offers a feeling that is both familiar and mysterious – especially since this traditional market is tucked away underground.
Image: Many international visitors find exploring Hang Da Market a fascinating experience.
This is one of the rare places in the Old Quarter that still preserves the traditional market model. The stalls are arranged close together with narrow aisles, bursting with colors from clothing, shoes, fruits, meat, dried goods, to local dishes.
The market is open from 5 a.m. to 8 p.m. and attracts many foreign tourists who come to experience the daily life of Hanoi’s people, enjoy rustic cuisine, and explore the traditional market culture amidst the modern city.
4. Dinner at Tam Vi Restaurant
Address: 4B Yen The Street, Dong Da District, Ha Noi.
Opening time: 11.00 a.m – 2.00 p.m, 5.00 p.m – 9.00 p.m.
Tam Vi Restaurant is known as a beloved dining spot in Hanoi, renowned for its authentic flavors and traditional Vietnamese dishes. Located conveniently in the city, it offers visitors a genuine culinary experience that highlights the rich diversity of Vietnam’s food culture.
Image: One of classic menus in Tam Vi Restaurant.
The menu features classic favorites, and a variety of fresh herbs and dipping sauces that bring every dish to life. With its cozy atmosphere and attentive service, Tam Vi Restaurant invites diners to savor each bite while immersing themselves in the warmth of Vietnamese hospitality.
EVENING: ENJOY HA NOI BY NIGHT
1. Che Loc Tai (Vietnamese sweet desert)
Address: 76 Hang Dieu Street, Hoan Kiem District, Ha Noi.
Opening time: 11.00 a.m – 10.00 p.m.
Che Loc Tai impresses visitors with its vintage, time-worn atmosphere. Guests will notice many charming details: every bowl used is antique, decorated with blue-white glaze or crackled glaze, and the trays are made of old bronze or wood. The tables and chairs are crafted entirely from dark brown wood, weathered by time…
Image: A traditional Vietnamese desert with nearly 25 years of history.
The dishes are prepared in a simple, traditional way, evoking the familiar flavors of childhood memories. The shop not only delights young customers but also stirs deep emotions in older guests, especially those who have returned home after being away for a long time.
2. St. Joseph’s Cathedral – A Beloved Gathering Spot in Hanoi
Address: 01 Nha Tho Street, Hoan Kiem District, Ha Noi.
Visiting the area around St. Joseph’s Cathedral — one of Hanoi’s iconic gathering places — travelers will easily come across groups of young people sitting together on small plastic stools, sipping iced tea or lemonade, and sharing simple plates of sunflower seeds. It’s not fancy or luxurious, but the lively, open-hearted atmosphere creates a unique cultural charm that can only be found in Hanoi.
Image: The front of St. Joseph’s Cathedral.
The scene is always bustling and lively, filled with the flow of passersby, the familiar sound of street vendors calling out, and the inviting aroma wafting from nearby food stalls. This vibrant rhythm of life, combined with the richness of Hanoi’s street food culture, creates an experience that feels both intimate and unforgettable — one that leaves visitors longing to return, even after just one visit.
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