1- Walk around Hoan Kiem Lake

You will begin your second day in Hanoi at Hoan Kiem Lake, a serene and picturesque body of water that holds great historical and cultural significance.

Also known as the Lake of the Restored Sword, it is linked to the legend of Emperor Le Loi, who is said to have returned a magical sword to the Golden Turtle God in the waters of the lake, symbolising the end of foreign domination.

Today, the lake is a popular spot for locals and tourists, offering a peaceful retreat with its walking paths, beautiful red The Huc Bridge and the charming Ngoc Son Temple located on a small island​​. You will also find many cafés, shops and cultural landmarks around, making it a central hub of activity in Hanoi​.

See the Ngoc Son Temple

One of the highlights of your walk around Hoan Kiem Lake will be Ngoc Son Temple. Located on a small island, it is one of the most revered temples of the city.

Accessible via the iconic red Huc Bridge, the temple is dedicated to General Tran Hung Dao, a national hero known for his victories against the Mongol invasions in the 13th century.

The temple complex includes a beautifully ornate gate, an impressive pavilion and a courtyard filled with ancient trees and lovely views. It serves not only as a place of worship but also as a tranquil spot for you to enjoy the rich history of the city.

2- Admire St. Joseph Cathedral

Not far from the lake, you will come across St. Joseph’s Cathedral, a striking example of neo-Gothic architecture, reminiscent of Notre-Dame de Paris.

Completed in 1886 by the French colonial government, it is one of the oldest churches in Hanoi. The cathedral features two tall bell towers, detailed stained glass windows and a grand facade, making it an important landmark in the city.

Inside, the cathedral offers a quiet atmosphere with high vaulted ceilings and beautifully decorated altars, serving as a central place of worship for the local Catholic community.

3- Step inside the Hoa Lo Prison

A short walk from the cathedral, you will find Hoa Lo Prison, also known as the Hanoi Hilton by American POWs (prisoners of war) during the Vietnam War, a historical site that offers a vivid insight into the tumultuous past of the country.

Originally built by the French in the late 19th century to house Vietnamese political prisoners, it became notorious for its harsh conditions and brutal treatment of inmates. The prison has been preserved as a museum, with exhibits that include the original cells, torture instruments and poignant displays detailing the experiences of both Vietnamese revolutionaries and American POWs.
A visit to Hoa Lo Prison provides a sobering yet insightful look into the history of colonialism, war and resilience of Vietnam.

4- Visit the Hanoi Opera House

Continue your discovery of Hanoi with a stop at the Hanoi Opera House located in the French Quarter, an architectural gem that embodies the elegance of French colonial design.

Built between 1901 and 1911, it was inspired by the Palais Garnier in Paris, featuring a grand facade with elaborate details and ornate balconies. The interior is home to a luxurious auditorium with plush seating and excellent acoustics, making it a premier venue for classical concerts, ballet performances and cultural events.

As a historical and cultural landmark, the Hanoi Opera House stands as a testament to the rich heritage and artistic legacy of the city, making it a must-visit on your 3 days in Hanoi.

5- Watch a show at Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre

Next on your bucket list is a stop at an unusual but memorable attraction: the Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre. Watching a show is a fascinating cultural experience that showcases the traditional water puppetry art form of Vietnam and is the perfect activity to do late afternoon.

Set in a shallow pool of water, the wooden puppets are intricately carved and brightly painted, performing folklore stories and legends with the help of puppeteers hidden behind a screen. Accompanied by traditional Vietnamese music performed live on authentic instruments such as drums and flutes, the puppets depict scenes of rural life, historical tales and mythical creatures.

The performances last 50 minutes and are worth the detour. Filled with vibrant colours and expressive movements, they provide another captivating insight into the rich cultural heritage of Vietnam.

6-Stroll through the Old Quarter

To end your day, I recommend strolling through the Old Quarter and immersing yourself in its vibrant atmosphere, the perfect place to capture the essence of the cultural and social life of Hanoi.

Get lost in its many narrow streets illuminated by colourful lanterns and neon signs, experience a unique culinary experience at street vendors and food stalls lining the sidewalks and stop at the night market to buy souvenirs, clothing and handmade crafts.
Live music and performances also add to the festive atmosphere, whilst the numerous cafés and bars provide cosy spots to relax and enjoy the lively scene.

Explore Hanoi Night Market

On your wander around the Old Quarter, stop at the Hanoi Night Market, a vibrant and colourful market that operates every Friday, Saturday and Sunday evening.

Stretching from Hang Dao Street to Dong Xuan Market, it features a wide variety of stalls selling everything from clothing and accessories to handicrafts and souvenirs. The market is known for its lively atmosphere, with street performers and musicians.

It is also a paradise for food lovers, offering a range of delicious street food such as grilled skewers, fresh fruit juices and traditional Vietnamese snacks.

Experience nightlife at Beer Corner (Ta Hien Street)

Another famous spot worth the stop is the Beer Corner, located at the intersection of Ta Hien and Luong Ngoc Quyen Streets. It is a lively place known for its fun nightlife and vibrant atmosphere.

In the evenings, the narrow streets are filled with small plastic stools and tables, where both locals and tourists gather to enjoy inexpensive draft beer, known locally as bia hoi.

The area is also lined with many bars and restaurants offering a variety of snacks and street food to accompany your drinks. One of the best places to experience the buzzing nightlife of Hanoi.

For your third day in Hanoi, you have two options: continue exploring the cities and the attractions you might have missed, or venture on a day trip.

Here are some great day trips from Hanoi.

Perfume Pagoda

A day trip to the Perfume Pagoda, located about 60 kilometres southwest of Hanoi, offers a perfect blend of spiritual exploration and natural beauty. It is also a great experience to get a deeper insight into Vietnamese Buddhist culture.

Your journey begins with a scenic drive through rural landscapes, followed by a boat ride along the Yen Stream, where you will pass lush rice paddies and karst limestone mountains.

Upon arrival, you can hike or take a cable car up to the main pagoda, Huong Tich Cave, which is nestled in a picturesque mountain setting. The cave houses numerous shrines and statues, revered by pilgrims who visit it for its spiritual significance.

​Duration: 1 full day
Book your tour: Exploring Perfume Pagoda Full Day Trip in Private​

Bat Trang Pottery Village

A day trip to Bat Trang Pottery Village, located about 13 kilometres southeast of Hanoi, provides an immersive experience of the renowned ceramic craftsmanship of Vietnam and the enduring tradition of pottery making.

The village, with a history of over 700 years, is famous for its high-quality pottery and ceramics. You will have the chance to explore multiple workshops and studios where artisans demonstrate traditional pottery-making techniques and try your hand at crafting your own pottery piece under the guidance of skilled craftsmen, making for a memorable hands-on experience.

The village also has a market where you can buy unique ceramic souvenirs, ranging from everyday household items to elaborate decorative pieces.

​Duration: 5 hours
Book your tour: Bat Trang Pottery ancient village by Motorbike​

Ha Long Bay

Impossible not to mention Ha Long Bay in this 3-day Hanoi itinerary. Although a little further, it is worth the detour. This UNESCO World Heritage site offers a breathtaking exploration of one of the most stunning natural wonders in Vietnam.

The journey typically starts with a scenic drive through the Red River Delta, followed by boarding a boat for a cruise through the emerald waters of the bay. You will be treated to spectacular views of thousands of limestone karsts and islets rising dramatically from the sea.

The cruise often includes stops at famous attractions such as Sung Sot (Surprise) Cave and Ti Top Island, where you can hike for panoramic views or relax on the beach. Kayaking and swimming in the quiet coves of the bay are also popular activities.

Duration: 1 full day
Book your tour: Ha Long Bay Cruise w/ Titop Island & Luon Cave

Ninh Binh Province

Another day trip a little further but worth the visit is a trip to Ninh Binh, which provides a perfect mix of history, nature and tranquillity, making it a memorable escape from the city.

The journey usually begins with a drive through the scenic countryside to reach the region known as Ha Long Bay on land due to its stunning limestone karst landscapes. Highlights include a boat ride along the Ngo Dong River in Tam Coc, where you glide through serene rice paddies and limestone caves.

Another popular destination is the ancient capital of Hoa Lu, with its historic temples dedicated to the Dinh and Le dynasties. You will also explore the breathtaking Bai Dinh Pagoda, one of the largest temple complexes in Vietnam, featuring impressive architecture and panoramic views.

Duration: 1 full day
Book your tour: Tam Coc, Hoa Lu & Mua Caves Full-Day Trip