When looking for what to eat in Kuala Lumpur, Yut Kee Restaurant is one of the best places to try some local traditional Chinese food. It is well known for its traditional Hainanese cuisines and is not to be missed for Kuala Lumpur’s local food.
Yut Kee is one of the well-known foodie places when looking for what to eat in Kuala Lumpur for traditional old taste food. Since 1928, Yut Kee serve old-time favorites such as chicken chop, toast bread, kaya roll, soft-boiled eggs, and coffee. It is the best place for breakfast and brunch and is also packed with local people and some tourists graving for their authentic Hainanese food.
On another busy Sunday morning, we visited Yut Kee for their famous Hainan-style breakfast. Let’s check out more detail about our food journey to Yut Kee in Kuala Lumpur.
The popular Yut Kee is a local Hainanese coffee shop operating since 1928. It is the typical traditional Chinese style coffee shop turned into a modern-day coffee shop cum restaurant. For decades, Yut Kee served their famous kaya swiss roll and Hainanese pork and chicken chop. The current owner is the third generation.
This family-owned restaurant was relocated from Jalan Dang Wangi to Jalan Kamunting a few years back but the restaurant keeps its nostalgic vibes. The establishment is painted in red color with traditional settling. The marble tables and wooden chairs lend a nostalgic ambiance to the restaurant. You can also see crops of newspapers on the walls, which shows the age of the Kopitiam quite well. A nice place for some nostalgic breakfast.
Yut Kee Restaurant Address: 1, Jalan Kamunting, Chow Kit, 50300 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur. Operating Hours: From 7:30 to 15:00. Close at Monday. Price Range: Average RM20 per person for food and drink.
A Food Trip To Yut Kee
There are a lot of people patrons here and mostly are local Chinese. To get a seat, you need to inform the cashier inside the restaurant of your name and the number of people eating with you. Once arrived, we place the name and number of pax at the counter and wait for our turn. The seat number will be called when it is your turn.
Be aware of the long queue as this place it’s very crowded during the weekend. Lunchtime can be really crowded so be prepared to share a table with strangers. It was still early and we only waited for almost 10 minutes for our seat. Overall, the service is swift and ordering is easy.
As you are seated, the menus are immediately placed there. You will notice there are some chef’s recommendations and I would definitely recommend trying them.
What To Eat
Yut Kee offers a variety of Hainanese food, a mixture of Western and Chinese styles. It is a good Kopitiam set with a wide variety of options for breakfast and lunch. All the dishes are shown on the menu with a price well listed.
Looking at the food offered, here is the recommended popular food to eat in Yut Kee:
If it’s your first time visiting the Yut Kee, you must try their toast with kaya (coconut jam) and butter. Unlike most kaya jams, the homemade Kaya from Yut Kee appears chunky. The toast set is coupled with the butter in a tiny cube, something you have never tried outside there before.
We ordered a cup of coffee, half-boiled eggs, and toasted bread with the amazing tasty kaya. The bread is so fluffy and soft, eating it with their kaya and butter just melts in your mouth. Nothing flash but just plain down-to-earth tasty foods.
Hainanese Chicken/Pork Chop
Yut Kee Signature Hainanese Pork Chop
Many local people came to Yut Kee for their famous Hainanese chicken chop or pork chop.
This time, we tried the Pork Chop instead of the popular chicken chop. The heavily battered pork is deep-fried to crisp and drenched in a pool of gravy. There are also generous sides such as green peas, carrots, and corn sitting majestically on the freshly prepared pork chop. There are also some potato wedges coming together.
Uniquely Hainanese! Not a bad try.
Roasted Pork Chop
Yut Kee Must-Eat Roasted Pork Chop
Another Yut Kee’s signature food is roasted pork chop. The crunchy skin is roasted up to perfection golden level. The crispy skin is a bit too salty but the meat is tender and juicy. Best to eat the fatty meat with their apple sauce gravy to eliminate the oily. Something to die for!
It’s always in limited quantities and only serves on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. Come earlier as it might be sold out before noon.
Roti Babi
We tried Roti Babi on my previous visit but I am not enjoying it. The shredded pork and onion are wrapped inside the deep-fried bread. The bread is a bit too greasy and the pork filling inside is tasteless.
I don’t think the Roti Babi is nice, anyway is my personal taste bud.
Noodles Dishes
My favorite food in Yut Kee is beef noodle soup. It was excellent and my bowl of beef noodles soup was served with radish and beef cuts. Slightly salty but suited for my taste bud.
Not the best beef noodle in Kuala Lumpur, but still recommended if you are into tripe and tendon.
Besides, we also recommend the Hainanese Lum Mee. The noodle was much bigger than usual and the taste was so flavorful.
Kaya Roll and Marble Cake
Yut Kee is known for their cakes. So don’t forget about their homemade kaya rolls and butter marble cake, which are decedent and magnificent. Many local people used to buy home boxes of their cakes like kaya swiss roll and marble cake.
Getting To Yut Kee
Parking can be a hassle and we advise coming early or slightly off-peak hour. You can take the parking nearby where they charge per entry or find a proper parking lot at the roadside. Reminder to pay for parking on Saturday in Kuala Lumpur. We always managed to find a good parking space on a weekend morning.
If you are getting to Yut Kee by public transport, you will need to get to Dang Wangi LRT station and then walk about 10 minutes to the restaurant. Alternatively, Grab is a great option within the KL downtown area.
Overview: Visit Yut Kee For Hainanese Food
Overall, Yut Kee Restaurant is a good place for breakfast or brunch if you’re visiting Kuala Lumpur. The service is good, the portion is respectable, and the price is reasonable. Honestly, the food quality is not the finest but it has an old-school taste. Simply awesome and deliciously tasty!
Be prepared to wait and definitely worth the waiting time. Value for money for such sumptuous food.
Last but not least, if you’re planning on visiting Kuala Lumpur for the first time, free feel to read through our KL travel stories.
This quick and simple Northern Vietnam travel guide blog will introduce you to all of the top Northern region’s highlights and attractions. Hopefully, this will get you inspired to start planning your Northern Vietnam itinerary as soon as possible!
Northern Vietnam has so much more to offer than the typical tourist spots. There is so much to see and experience in the region. Not only this region is very affordable for budget travelers, but it is also rich in the cultural and breathtaking scenery.
North Vietnam is home to Hanoi, Vietnam’s capital, one of the bustling hectic cities in Vietnam with loads of authentic Vietnamese cuisines to experience. During your visit, spend your time strolling around the historical old quarter and hectic streets. Try as much local food and eat like a local!
For the nature lover, Northern Vietnam is where you’ll get off the beaten path and interact with minority ethnic people in local villages. You will find breathtaking bays, stunning rice terraces, and unbeatable scenery.
If you’re visiting Northern Vietnam for the first time, then this comprehensive travel guide will tell you all you need to know to plan your trip. We will be shared what to do and see during my trip to the Northern Vietnam region. So, keep reading if you want me to walk you through the best way to travel to Northern Vietnam!
Before planning a trip to Northern Vietnam, it is best to plan and have a brief introduction on what to do and see before your travel date. At a first glance, the attractions that you must add to your Northern Vietnam itinerary are Hanoi, Halong Bay, Sapa, and surrounding attractions such as Lan Ha Bay and Ninh Binh.
Hanoi is Vietnam’s capital city. It’s also the second-largest city in Vietnam by population, behind only Saigon. Most people will choose Hanoi as a base when traveling around the Northern Vietnam region.
Halong Bay is the most touristy spot in Vietnam with thousands of visitors flocking into mesmerized by its spectacular scenery. This UNESCO heritage-listed site is one of the natural wonders of the world, and consists of a bay made up of around 1,600 limestone islands. This not to be missed attraction is about three hours east of Hanoi.
Lastly is Sapa, a mountain town in Lao Cai Province. It is located in the most northern region of Vietnam, about 5 hours northwest of Hanoi. Known for its rice terraces, trekking activities into the local village, and meet with minority ethnic people.
Best Time To Visit Northern Vietnam
Vietnam falls within the tropical zone of the northern hemisphere. So technically, Vietnam has only two seasons – dry (Oct-Apr) and rainy (May-Sept). However, in more northern areas, the climate does experience variances with four distinct seasons (spring, summer, autumn, and winter).
The most popular times to visit Northern Vietnam are during the Spring and Fall months. During these months, the weather is ideal and not too hot. The pleasant temperature will enable you to enjoy all activities while making sightseeing as perfect as it could be.
Spring (February to April) is the best time to visit Northern Vietnam. The weather is milder and fairly constant throughout the year. So it is best for traveling around and visiting the region.
Summer (May to October) is the hottest month in the Northern Vietnam region. So expect more sunshine and scorching heat with humidity as high as 40 degrees. The rainy season is also in full swing which started around July to September. Severe weather can occasionally cause Halong Bay cruises to cancel departures.
Fall (October-November) is another best time to visit Northern Vietnam. Like spring, the sky was clear with chilly temperatures throughout the region.
Winter (December to January) – The weather is surprisingly cold, especially in northern mountainous regions. However, Northern Vietnam does not snow but it is possible seeing snow-capped on the top of Mount Fansipan.
Traveling To Northern Vietnam
By air: Vietnam has two main international airports, which are Noi Bai International Airport in Hanoi and Tan Son Nhat International Airport in Saigon. Both are busy international airports, serving thousand of travelers every day, from both internationally and domestically flying to Vietnam.
If you’re an international traveler arriving in North Vietnam by air, most probably you’ll fly into Noi Bai International Airport. Besides, Northern Vietnam is well-connected with other cities in Vietnam with countless daily flight connections between Da Nang, Ho Chi Minh, and Hanoi. There are also many low-cost carriers within South East Asia where you can find plenty of a good deals to get into Northern Vietnam.
By train and bus: If you are already in Vietnam, you can travel to the North region from Saigon, Hoi An, or other cities by train and bus. There are very comfortable and clean, but the traveling time is very long. Alternatively option, you can look for the sleeper bus or overnight train where you can save on the accommodation cost and time.
Getting Around in Northern Vietnam
Transportation is truly a headache for travelers when getting around in Northern Vietnam. It is also the most tiring part of the trip as the traveling journey from one destination to the next destination can be from 3 to 6 hours. If you are traveling with kids and older folks, it is best to allocate more time or spend at least one night stay at the attraction.
Besides, it is also important to arrange to pre-book the transportation to avoid the last-minute hassle. There are plenty of local tours with transportation included in the city. But it is best to look for a guided tour company with the reputation and good reviews.
We had a very pleasant Northern Vietnam trip and it was all made very easy for us by booking an online tour with Klook and Viator. Be sure to check for more information in each section below.
Planning Northern Vietnam Itinerary
Thanks to its beauty and attractiveness, we have a fantastic time in Northern Vietnam and I’m pretty sure you’re going to love it too. Next, let’s run through my Northern Vietnam itinerary below in more detail.
Things To Do on Northern Vietnam itinerary:
Day 1: Arrived at Northern Vietnam.
Day 2: From Hanoi to Sapa. Visiting local market.
Day 3: Trek into Sapa Local Village.
Day 4 to 5: Halong Bay.
Day 6 to 7: Hanoi.
Above Northern Vietnam itinerary can easily be reversed and swapped if they sound more suitable for your trip. You can base on our suggestions to make your own Northern Vietnam itinerary or customize it based on your travel interest and schedule.
Day 1: Arrived Northern Vietnam
We arrived at Noi Bai International airport and were picked up and transferred to the Hanoi city center. From Hanoi to Sapa, you can either take a bus or train which takes you around 5 to 6 hours. We decided to take the overnight train as it is the best budget option as it will save on traveling time and accommodation costs.
Once settled the transportation from Hanoi to Sapa, we had our first meal in old quarter at one of the infamous restaurants for Bun Cha after the tiring flight. We didn’t plan anything on the itinerary as we have around half day to blast around Hanoi before we take the night train to Sapa.
We enjoyed sightseeing around the old quarter until late evening and take the night train to Lao Cai. You may also do some orientation tours around Hanoi old quarter if time allows.
Northern Vietnam Travel Tips: The overnight train is very tiring, especially for families with kids and the elderly. Check below if you are looking for more transportation options.
Over-night Train – The best budget option for those with limited time as you will arrive in Sapa in the early morning to kick start the Sapa itinerary.
Located at Lao Cai Province, Sapa is one of the top destinations in North Vietnam. The misty Sapa is well-known for its mild climate, traditional hill tribes, colorful traditional markets, and stunning rice terraces. You can also learn about the Vietnam’s cultural heritage of minority groups such as Hmong, Dao, Tay, Giay, and Yi on your visit to Sapa.
For about 5 hours of traveling time, we arrived in Sapa in the early morning. Firstly, we headed to Bac Ha Sunday Market, another 2 hours painful journey into the rural area of the hilly village.
Bac Ha Sunday market is the place where I had been looking forward to for so long. As the name said, the Bac Hac weekend tribe market is held on Sunday. It is the local market where locals including the minority peoples are gathering here to buy and sell a wide variety of goods. You might also meet the Flower Hmong people who live in Lao Cai and Ha Giang Provinces with colorful traditional clothes.
In the late afternoon, we backed into Sapa town and have a good rest at the hotel. The hotel is simple yet comfy.
For more Sapa accommodation at different budget for your selection – Where to Stay in Sapa.
On the next day, we started our day in the early morning by trekking into the local village. This is a leisure hike but remember to put on a pair of comfortable footwear so that you won’t get blisters on your toes due to the long walking.
Known as the home of the Black Hmong ethnic minority, Cat Cat village is also the most popular destination on the Sapa trekking tour. This is probably because the village itself is fairly easily accessible compared to the other villages in Sapa. But this also makes it very touristy with lines of souvenir shops.
Trekking down the alley, we were able to see what this minority group does for a living. It is part of their culture where they sell lots of handmade crafts just for subsistence. We visited Black Hmong families and visit the Cat Cat waterfall and rice paddies in this village. Every corner in this place is so picturesque. What a breathtaking view!
There are a few local villages in the region to choose from. If you are planning to witness the settlement of the local’s life I would suggest visiting other villages such as Ma Tra and Ta Phin Village. For Sapa trekking tour to the local village:
Located in the Gulf of Tonkin, Ha Long Bay is a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its spectacular scenery. It is home to sparkling emerald waters, with more than 1,600 towering limestone islands and islets, caves, and traditional floating villages.
Day 5 and day 6 on the Northern Vietnam itinerary are where we spend the time in Ha Long Bay!
Halong Bay is one of my favorite places to visit in Northern Vietnam. We sailed through the bay between the limestone outcrops, stop at a cave for a visit, and kayaked on the emerald water. I’m sure you’ll love it as much as I did.
Halong Bay is a perfect day tour from Hanoi. It is a pretty comprehensive and value-for-money experience! However, if budget is not a concern, it is highly recommended to stay at least one night on the cruise to enjoy the spectacular scenery.
We visited Halong Bay twice on my last few years of visit, one with a day trip from Hanoi and another we spend an additional night on the cruise. The itinerary is pretty much the same, where the tour guide will pick you up from the hotel in Hanoi with a transfer arrangement.
By spending a night in Ha Long Bay, you’ll get more time cruising the bay. In additional, you’ll also spend a night sleeping in your own cabin, waking up with the serene scenery, and have a more wonderful time in the bay with its breathtaking scenery.
We recommended booking the Halong Bay Day Cruise from Hanoi through Klook and Viator – a TripAdvisor company. Both are reputable companies with good customer reviews.
With about 2 days in Hanoi, we have plenty of time for exploring the city at your leisure. The downtown is bustling with people and full of motorcycles. You can lost in the city with lines of local food stalls, teeming streets, and colonial buildings. Some travelers find Hanoi overwhelming, but I truly enjoy my time wandering around and watching the locals and activities.
Hanoi is a history city dates back 3,000 years. Spend the time sightseeing in the Hanoi Old Quarter and French Quarter, strolling around the Hoan Kiem Lake, passing through the bustle of streets, and ending with a cup of Vietnamese coffee in one of the authentic coffee shops.
Don’t leave Hanoi without trying the bun cha, pho bo, banh mi, and many more local authentic Vietnamese cuisine. The Vietnamese food in Hanoi is world-class and should not be missed on the Northern Vietnam itinerary.
Besides, if you are in Hanoi during the weekend, don’t miss the night market on the walking street. There are many street food stalls with an unlimited variety of street food to choose from. Just make sure you’ll have maximum stomach space for the food!
Where to Stay: The best neighborhood to stay in Hanoi is Hoan Kiem. It is also known also as Hanoi City Centre or Hanoi Old Quarter. We stayed at the Acoustic Hotel & Spa and fell in love with the convenience and all that it has to offer. Many great restaurants and interesting attractions are within walking distance. Highly recommended.
There are too many wonderful places to discover in Northern Vietnam. With several days to fill in the Northern Vietnam itinerary, it is easily planned out for a few days of visit within the region. However, due to the long-haul traveling journey, it is highly recommended to spend at least two days when visiting each attraction.
I think 5 to 7 days on your Northern Vietnam itinerary is the bare minimum if you want to explore the region. If you only have 1 to 3 days, it is best to stick to only one place and visit it properly. You can spend your days either in Hanoi or Sapa.
If you have more days, you can spend an extra day in Hanoi, an additional night at Halong Bay to Cat Ba Island, or even have one day trip to Ninh Binh. Most important, don’t you pack the itinerary and you should visit the region without feeling rushed.
Final Northern Vietnam Travel Tips
If you’re going to stay in a different area follow this Northern Vietnam itinerary. So it is best to look for accommodation with at the action to ease on transport arrangement. Some people may choose to come back to the same hotel after a few days of the visit at another attraction, it is advised to check and request with the hotel to keep your luggage.
The best way to know the local culture and lifestyle is to join them! We highly recommended a trek into the mountainous rural local village in the North region. It is a unique experience to interact with the minor ethnic group. The traveling journey is painful to reach the rural village but glad that we visited it before it got more touristy.
Most likely you will trek into the local village or involve a lot of walking. Make sure to bring a comfortable sneaker and keep hydrated.
Is north Vietnam worth visiting?
North Vietnam is definitely worth visiting. Fantastic scenery, amazing historical monuments, mouthwatering food, and most importantly it is relatively cheap to visit.
What are the must-visit places in North Vietnam for a first-time visitor?
In my humble opinion, Hanoi, Ha Long Bay, and Sapa are musts for any first-time visitor to North Vietnam’s travel itinerary.
How many days are enough for North Vietnam?
For me, seven days is the perfect amount of time to experience the best of North Vietnam and its attractions. However, if you have more days, it will allow you to visit multiple attractions comfortably.
Is North Vietnam expensive to travel?
Similar to the entire Vietnam, North Vietnam is a cheap place to visit and best suited for a budget traveler. However, it is getting more expensive every year but is still comparable or cheaper compared to nearby countries such as Thailand and Cambodia.
Overview: A Trip To North Vietnam
All in all, Northern Vietnam is a region of the country not to be missed. We covered three main must-visit places in this region that you could visit on this 7-day Northern Vietnam itinerary. There are still many attractions and amazing places that this region has to offer. We shall return to North Vietnam for another time!
Looking for more travel information for your trip to North Vietnam? We shared the travel stories into more detail manner for each destination. Feel free to read my Northern Vietnam itinerary to Hanoi, Halong bay, and Sapa.
If you’re visiting Hanoi and want to experience as wide a range of Vietnamese local food as possible, then this Hanoi food guide will be very useful to you.
No visit to Hanoi is complete without having some of the best authentic Vietnamese food in the city. Exploring the city while eating along the journey was truly amazing. It is one of my favorite gastronomic cities in Vietnam, offering a range of authentic regional South Vietnamese food. This thousand-years old city is not only famous for its meaty dishes such as pho noodle soup, bun cha, and banh mi, but you will also find the unique egg coffee and many more flavorful Vietnamese dishes.
On my trip to Hanoi, I truly enjoyed all the best food and drinks. There is a lot to try with thousands of restaurants, cafes, and street food stalls serving wonderful food to locals and tourists. Apart from authentic Vietnamese food, Hanoi food is unique and won’t be found anywhere else. I was intrigued and excited to try as many Hanoi foods as I could.
Want to know what to eat and drink in Hanoi when visiting here? This Hanoi food guide post is all about the best food I tried and ate during my visit to Hanoi. Let’s check it out!
If you’re traveling to Hanoi and it’s important for you to find the best local food, then I hope this Hanoi food guide puts you on the right track.
Here is the quick list for what to eat in the Hanoi Food Guide.
Cà phê trứng (Egg Coffee)
Phở bò (Beef noodle soup)
Bún chả (Grilled Pork with Noodle Dish)
Bánh mì (Vietnamese Baguette)
Cháo (Vietnamese Porridge)
Lẩu (Hotpot) and Nướng (BBQ)
Hanoi Street Food
Hanoi Food Tips: If you are planning a trip to Hanoi, be sure to check out our detailed Hanoi travel guide. We listed down all the information you need such as where to stay, and which attractions to visit, coupled together with what to eat to help you plan your trip.
Hanoi Street Food Scene
Hanoi Food Tour
The street food in Hanoi is one of the best food journeys we had in Asia. You have two options when it comes to exploring Hanoi’s street food scene: go on a guided tour or do it yourself. A street food tour is a great way to experience Hanoi as it’s easily walkable and a variety of food can be sampled with a local guide.
Egg coffee or “Ca Phe trúng” is a Hanoi specialty and is rated as must-try food on anyone’s Hanoi food guide. Drinking my first egg coffee in Hanoi was also one of my favorite experiences in the town.
Watch out for many local coffee shops with interesting low-level tables and chairs. You will join many Vietnamese local people sitting, enjoying a cup of coffee, and chit-chatting together.
Egg coffee may sound weird but I have to say, it tasted heavenly!
Firstly, the drink is interesting. It combined both coffee and dessert in a cup which really brought coffee drinking and sweet treat enjoyment to a whole new level. The frothy egg concoction on the top was creamy, smooth, and velvety. I must say, I am not disappointed at all.
Where to eat the best coffee in Hanoi:
Giang Café – Address: 39 Nguyen Huu Huan Hoan Kiem.
Dinh Café – Address: 13 Dinh Tien Hoang Street, Hang Bac Ward, Hoan Kiem.
Café Thái – Address: 27 Trieu Viet Vuong, Hai Ba Trung.
Egg Coffee from Giang Café
Giang Café – Hanoi Best Egg Coffee
Established in 1946, egg coffee from Giang Café is the original and one of the places you must try if you are ever in Hanoi. The innovators and creators, the Giang family was starting making egg coffee when milk was in scarcity in Vietnam. Egg coffee has now become the most iconic coffee in Hanoi.
Giang Café is humbly hidden in a small alley on Nguyen Huu Huan Street in the city’s old quarter. The small entrance of the cafe leads you to a special two-story building with an interesting layout, local-style furniture, natural light, and greenery creeping down the walls. It was a bit hidden but worth the search.
The shop was always busy, especially during noon time, crowded with locals and visitors sipping and exchanging conversations. It has a local environment where you will find traditional low tables and stools like many other cafes in the Hanoi Old Quarter. The service is fast, despite the densely packed space and large customer volume.
A Cup of Egg Coffee in Hanoi
We tried the hot egg coffee with chocolate powder. The taste was special and is like a thick sweet strong coffee. You can either stir well or enjoy the whipped egg on top first. The taste is strange on the first sip but not fishy at all. It was so rusty, fresh, and greasy. A must-visit for any coffee lover.
Ambience-wise, we loved the atmosphere in the cafe. The price is slightly more expensive than normal coffee, but worth giving it a try when visiting Hanoi. The best place to immerse in the Hanoi culture and food.
Giang Café Address: 39 Nguyen Huu Huan Hoan Kiem, Hanoi. Business Hours: Daily from 7:00 to 22:30 What to Order: Whipped egg hot or cold with chocolate powder Price Range: VND 40,000-50,000 per cup of egg coffee
Phở bò (Beef noodle soup)
Best Pho in Hanoi – Pho 10 Ly Quoc Su
If you’ve ever tried Vietnamese food, there is a high chance that it was a bowl of Pho (beef noodle soup). A bowl of hearty pho noodles soup made with fresh rice noodles, long slow-cook beef broth, slides beef, and topped with onion, scallion, and cilantro. This Hanoi must-try food can be classified as Vietnam’s national dish and is widely available across the city.
To prepare a flavorful bowl of pho noodle soup, long hours are required in cooking a quality broth. So this is not a surprise that a good pho restaurant in Hanoi will serve one type of pho only; pho bo (beef pho) or pho ga (chicken pho). A variant of fresh beef cuts is put into a large bowl with a sufficient amount of flat rice noodles, topped with scallions, onion, and cilantro. The most common beef cuts are served as tai (medium rare), tai nam (medium rare flank), chin (well-done), or tendon to fatty brisket.
Numerous renowned restaurants serve the best pho in Hanoi, especially in Old Quarter and the French Quarter. Each has its taste and a particular type of cooking. Popular Pho stalls such as Pho Gia, Pho Thin, and Pho 10 are always with a long queue of people waiting to have their pho.
Where to eat the best Pho in Hanoi:
Phở Gia Truyền Bát Đàn – Address: 25 Hàng Cá, P, Hoàn Kiếm.
Phở Thìn Lò Đúc – Address: 13 Lo Duc, Hai Ba Trung.
Pho Hang Trong – Address: – Address: 8 Hàng Trống, Hoàn Kiếm.
Pho 10 Ly Quoc Su – Address: 10 Ly Quoc Su Street, Hoan Kiem.
Bún chả (Grilled Pork with Noodle Dish)
What To Eat in Hanoi – Bun Cha
Bún chả is another beloved local specialty of Hanoi – the city’s top choice for lunch. The delicious Bun cha consists of a soupy bowl of diluted dipping sauce that is filled with charcoal-grilled fatty patties and pork slices. It comes along with rice vermicelli and plenty of fresh herbs like lettuce, coriander, and purple perilla.
Similar to pho, bun cha is a very popular noodles soup dish in Northern Vietnam. The difference is the Pho noodles are flat and thick like fettuccine, while Bun noodles are cylindrical like spaghetti.
Bun Cha Huong Lien
Bún Chả is also the dish famously shared by Anthony Bourdain and Barack Obama. The infamous restaurant, Bún Chả Hương Liên is where they ate their $6 dollar dinner. It is always crowded with curious diners from all over the world to taste this amazing local dish.
Where to taste the best Bun Cha in Hanoi:
Bun Cha Chien Loan – Address: 25 Gia Ngu Street, Hoan Kiem.
Bun Cha Hang Quat – Address: 74 Hang Quat Street, Hoan Kiem.
Bun Cha Huong Lien – Address: 24 Nguyen Huu Huan Street, Hai Ba Trung.
Bánh mì (Vietnamese Baguette)
Banh mi is the local Vietnamese take on a French baguette. Local use rice flour to create a light crispy baguette and split lengthwise to fill with a variety of ingredients such as liver pate, pickled vegetables, cucumber slices, spices, and your choice of meat.
Bahn mi is the staple food in Vietnam and is widely consumed across the country. Don’t miss to taste the awesome Bahm mi when visiting Hanoi. There are literally hundreds of Banh Mi shops dotted around Hanoi, whether on carts or brick and mortar shops. You should definitely try it while you’re in Hanoi.
Where to eat the best Bahm Mi in Hanoi:
Bánh Mì 25 – Address: 25 Hàng Cá, P, Hoàn Kiếm.
Bami Bread – Address: 98 Hang Bac Hoan Kiem.
Banh Mi Pho – 57C Dinh Tien Hoang Street, Hoan Kiem.
Bami Bread
For a tasty and fresh Bahm mi at a good price, head to Bami Bread. It is highly recommended by locals and also my favorite banh mi store in Hanoi Old Quarter. The banh mi was delicious, with fresh ingredients, and really reasonably priced!
Bami Bread is a very small outlet and very basic inside. It’s hard to miss with its yellow decoration and inviting setup. There are a few plastic stools where you can have your Bahm mi once ready. From the menu, there are multiple choices that you can choose from with spicy and non-spicy options. I ordered Hoi An Special as I truly missed the Bahm mi that I had when visiting Hoi An.
The Bahm mi is made to order with fresh ingredients. The staff makes it in front of you so expected to wait. It comes with cute little paper bags with a representation of your choice. So adorable!
Hanoi Best Bahm Mi
We absolutely loved the Banh mi and the crispness of the baguette from Bami Bread! It is “Hoi-An-style” Bahn mi which consisted of slow roasted pork, paté, pickled vegetables, coriander, mayonnaise, and secret Hoi An sauce all nestled into a warm baguette.
The baguette is crispy on the outside and light on the inside. It is very tasty, not overly filled but enough. For 26,000VND, the Bahn mi is very reasonably priced. Highly recommended and would not hesitate to come back for more!
Bami Bread Address: 98 Hang Bac | Hoan Kiem, Hanoi 10000, Vietnam Business Hours: Daily from 7:30 to 22:00 What to Order: Hoi An Special Price Range: Average VND 26,000 per banh mi
Hanoi Food Tips: Bami Bread has a few branches in town, scattered around the city. Get the one near you. The original store is located at 98 Hang Bac Street and it is the best in this chain.
Cháo (Vietnamese Porridge)
Enjoy Vietnamese porridge cháo in Hanoi
A simple and nourishing Vietnamese porridge or congee called cháo. It is a very comforting food and often consumed as a breakfast to kick start your day. The Vietnamese porridge is made with rice cooked in a rich and sweet pork bone broth. It is often paired with the tastiest Youtiao or floss on top.
During my trip to Hanoi, I was eating this amazing Vietnamese porridge by the roadside. The ultra-smooth porridge is served with lots of chunky fried youtiao. Heavenly combination.
Where to eat the best cháo in Hanoi:
Cháo sườn cô Là (roadside stall) – Address: 2A P. Lý Quốc Sư, Hàng Trống, Hoàn Kiếm.
Cháo Sườn sụn Huyền Anh – Address: 14 P. Đồng Xuân, Đồng Xuân, Hoàn Kiếm.
Lẩu (Hotpot) and Nướng (BBQ)
Another decent food experience to try out in Hanoi is the Lẩu (Vietnamese Hotpot) and Nướng (Vietnamese BBQ). This street dining was exceptional when sitting with the locals and eating authentic Vietnamese food in Hanoi.
Lẩu – Vietnamese Hotpot
There are many Hot Pot and BBQ restaurants in Old Quarter especially along Ma May, Hang BC, Luong Ngoc Quyen, Hang Buom, and Binh Liet street. Don’t be afraid to sit down at one of the outdoor stalls or restaurants with little low plastic stools. My advice, choose the one with many locals eating there as it most probably is the best!
Nướng – Vietnamese BBQ
It was quite a pleasant experience for eating the BBQ or hotpot in Hanoi. There was a handful of meat to choose from for the meal set such as beef, pork, chicken, and seafood. Looking at the menu, we decided to try the both BBQ and hotpot option.
A massive amount of raw meats and vegetables were brought out, one of the staff showed us what to do and then left it to us. The food is delicious and the price is reasonable. High recommended.
Hanoi Street Food
Mouthwatering Hanoi Street Food
At the weekend, Hanoi’s night market on Hang Dao Walking Street is also a great place to get street food. The weekend market in Hanoi Old Quarter is like eating and drinking non-stop along the street. It is a great time and everyone is having a good time with no stress.
Soaking up the ambiance and browsing the many food stalls. There is plenty of excellent genuine street food offered at a cheap price.
Hanoi Street Food – Beef and Chicken Skewer
Forget about the diet. The grilled honey bread, fresh grilled shrimp, and other beef and chicken skewers are fantastic. We had a very good experience with Hanoi street food.
Final Hanoi Food Tips
Lastly, here is a few quick food tips before ending our Hanoi food guide post:
What is Hanoi famous food?
Pho is arguably the most popular food in Hanoi. You can find pho bo (beef pho) and pho ga (chicken pho) widely available in the city.
Is street food popular in Hanoi?
Hanoi is extremely popular with street food and you can easily see many street food vendors serving authentic local Vietnamese food to locals and guests.
What is the best food in Hanoi Old Quarter you should try?
One should not miss the Cà phê trứng (Egg Coffee), Phở bò (Beef noodle soup), and Bún chả (Grilled Pork with Noodle Dish) when visiting Hanoi.
Overview: Hanoi Food Guide
All in all, the overall food hunting experience in Hanoi was surprisingly enjoyable. The Hanoi local food is excellent so try to experience them as much as possible. There’s still so much good Vietnamese food to be discovered here so we’ll definitely be back.
Thanks for reading and have a wonderful time eating the best food in Hanoi!
Lastly, if you need more travel inspiration for Northern Vietnam, here you can find the best articles to plan your trip including Sapa, Hanoi, and Ha Long Bay.
Lastly, if you need any help in planning your trip to Hanoi, then feel free to read more on our Hanoi travel blog posts below:
Here’s our Hanoi itinerary for how to spend 1, 2, or 3 days in this charming historical city. We will share with you our tips, must-visit attractions, and what to do in this Hanoi travel guide blog.
Dotted with centuries-old architecture, beautiful lakes, and tranquil Buddhist pagodas, Hanoi is one of the most popular cities to visit. It is a vibrant city that you either love or hate. Although Hanoi is rapidly developing with many shopping malls and luxury hotels, the downtown area is still keeping its traditional culture. It is loud, chaotic, overwhelming with motorbike-packed streets, and unique with its own culture. A true tourist destination.
When visiting Hanoi, it is best to just spend a day wandering around the area and getting lost in the small streets and alleys. You can just stroll around the French colonial Old Quarter, browse through outdoor markets and shops, try local food from the street food vendor, or have a cup of Vietnamese coffee at a local coffee shop. It is an experience to be taken slowly and enjoyed.
If it’s your first time visiting Hanoi, then I hope this Hanoi travel guide blog helps you make the most of your time in this lively city. We will cover how to get to Hanoi, the transport options from the airport to downtown, where to stay, and useful travel tips and information. Let’s check out this awesome Hanoi itinerary for 1, 2, or even 3 days in Hanoi.
This Hanoi travel guide is comprehensive and long. As always, let’s break things up into sections by section to make things easy in this handy Hanoi travel blog!
Hanoi, also written as Ha Noi is the capital of the Vietnam and second largest city in the country. It is a rich culture with influences of French, Chinese, and Southeast Asian. Being the major hub for Northern Vietnam, Hanoi is the ideal place to set up your base when visiting the attractions such as Sapa, Ninh Binh, and UNESCO heritage site Halong bay.
The Vietnam currency is VND and popularly called “Dong”. Though USD is acceptable in Vietnam, it is advisable carrying the VND especially if you want to buy stuff or food from small shops and street vendors. Besides, hotels mostly can accept credit cards but many cafes only cash.
The majority of people in Hanoi are sincerely friendly, enthusiastic, and with a great sense of humor. In the service industry, you will be impressed by how the customer service did their job and cares for you. They can speak English even though some may not fluently. However, many people on the roads don’t know how to speak English, but communication is not an issue (hand and sign) as tourists are very common in Hanoi.
How Many Days Should I Plan to Stay in Hanoi
You can plan a one-day stay in Hanoi or can even set aside a couple of days to properly explore this city. But generally, we recommend staying at least two days. That way you have enough time to see the main attractions in Hanoi and continue to explore some of the beautiful attractions nearby.
Spend three days in Hanoi if time is permitted. There are plenty of tourist attractions, cool bars, nice restaurants, and great cafes offering panoramic views over the city.
We spent totally 3 days and 2 nights in Hanoi. Firstly, we arrived at Hanoi Noi Bai International Airport and arrange our transportation by taking the overnight train to Sapa. After this, we came back to Hanoi for another 3 days of visit in this charming city. We also have a day trip to Halong Bay to end our Northern Vietnam trip before flying back to our home country.
Best Time To Visit Hanoi
The best time to visit Hanoi is in the Fall, from around the end of September till November, followed by Spring (March to May). During this time, the temperatures are ideal and pleasant. It is best to walk around in the vibrant city. Expect more tourists and higher hotel prices around that time.
Summer (from June to August) is the hottest and most humid time of the year. Not only that, the middle of the year is considered the rainy season in Hanoi. So it is not the best time to visit Hanoi and avoid these months if you can.
While December is still a great time as the weather is cool. However, the temperatures can fall to around 10ºC in January and February.
Traveling To Hanoi
For international visitors, most likely Hanoi will be the point of arrival if you are visiting Northern Vietnam. The Hanoi Noi Bai International Airport (HAN) is one of Vietnam’s 2 major international airports. It is extremely busy, serving thousands of travelers everyday, from both internationally and domestically flying to Hanoi.
Many domestic flights are well connected with other cities within Vietnam. There are countless daily flight connections between Da Nang, Ho Chi Minh, and Hanoi. Those domestic flights are very frequent and extremely affordable. Remember to check baggage allowances as this may increase the cost with the hefty luggage cost included.
Besides, there are many low-cost carriers within South East Asia. Flying internally or from nearby countries is an incredibly good value. Be sure to research flights and prices for a great deal especially if you are on a tight budget. You can search for cheap flights from Skyscanner.
Getting To Hanoi Downtown from Airport
You’ll need to arrange for transfers to your hotel from Hanoi Noi Bai International Airport. The airport is about 25 km from downtown Hanoi. Listed below are the different ways you can get to your hotel from Noi Bai airport:
Airport Taxi – This will be the most expensive option and easy to get scam. Make sure to look for a meter taxi or agreed with a good price before you depart. It will take you around 30 minutes to reach.
Private/Shared Transfer – This is the most convenient way of getting to your hotel from the airport but it’s also one of the most expensive. Klook offers airport transfers from Noi Bai to your hotel in downtown Hanoi. You can pre-book a private comfortable air-conditioned car with hotel drop-off ahead of time for around – Best Offer.
Public Bus – You can take Public Bus Number 17 or the Hanoi Airport Bus Express (Bus Number 86) to get downtown. It is the cheapest option but you will need to get a taxi from the bus stop to the hotel. Not a good option for visitors to Hanoi.
Grab Car – When it comes to South East Asia, we highly recommend using the e-hailing service, Grab. Similar to Uber, you just need the app and internet inside Hanoi Airport to book a ride. Grab also support Grab motor in Hanoi but this option is only suitable for the light traveler.
Getting Around in Hanoi
Hanoi is a very walkable city. Rather, we would say that you need to walk around to experience the vibe of this vibrant city. The city’s packed streets, local market, and beautiful architecture can best be seen while walking.
The majority of the attractions are located in the downtown area and within walking distance. On this suggested Hanoi itinerary, you can easily walk around for the whole day. You can also spend an additional one more day in if you prefer to slow down the pace. A better way to get around Hanoi is to get a cyclo ride tour as you will be directly in the street life.
Alternatively, get the ride on Hanoi Hop-on Hop-off Bus to see the best sights in the city! The easiest way to get around and see the major attractions in Hanoi.
If you need to travel farther away, just use the Grab or Grab Motor. It’s the Southeast Asia version of Uber and super easy to use!
Best Place To Stay
Hanoi is a travelers paradise. There is an enormous amount of great hotels and hostels all over the city. We recommended base yourself centrally in old quarter to ease on your Hanoi itinerary planning. Staying in qol quarter is easy to get around for attractions, food, and entertainment.
Here is few option with different budget range for staying in Hanoi Old Quarter:
Luxury: Peridot Grand Luxury Boutique Hotel is the best luxury hotel in Hanoi. But rest assured, even the most luxurious accommodation in Hanoi is affordable! The hotel is centrally located with beautiful rooms and comfy beds. Most importantly, the price is reasonable.
High-range: Acoustic Hotel & Spa is the popular affordable luxury Hotel in Hanoi. The location is pretty convenient and right on the border of the Old Quarter. It is walking distance to the train street and weekend market with lots of eateries along the way.
Mid-Budget: Ja Cosmo Hotel and Spa is a surprisingly affordable boutique hotel. Located in the heart of Hanoi Old Quarter, it is easy walking distance to visit the attractions nearby and find food even at night.
Hanoi is highly dense with people and full of motorcycles. You can easily explore the city on foot or try a cyclo tour to travel around all the streets with famous attractions. It is a real treat by wandering around and watching the locals and activities. Be careful or you can get lost!
The following Hanoi itinerary is action packed if you are only have limited one day in Hanoi. You are freely to adjust based on your interest and available in the city.
Things To Do in Hanoi Itinerary:
Start with relaxing stroll at Hoan Kiem Lake
Ngoc Son Temple and Turtle Island
Wandering in Hanoi Old Quarter
Hang Bac Street
Train Street
Have a cup of Vietnamese Coffee
Try Local Vietnamese Street Food
Enjoy Nightlife at Ta Hien Street
Hanoi Night Market
Hanoi Travel Guide: For excursions, I would recommend the Hanoi Sightseeing Motorbike Tour as you will be directly in the street life. Your driver will stop at the most interesting spots or on demand to save your steps. Most importantly, you can enjoy the picturesque and beautiful chaos. A fun and non-forgettable experience.
Relaxing Stroll at Hoan Kiem Lake
Centrally located in the middle of Hanoi, Hoan Kiem Lake is literary the oasis in the heart of the city. The lake is located in a lovely setting and is strangely peaceful. It is a nice place to relax, run around, or have your coffee to get some break from the hustle-bustle of the city.
Every morning, locals love spending their time here doing exercise, taking aerobic or tai-chi lessons, jogging around the lake, or just enjoying nature in calm and serene surroundings. While in the nighttime, the lake looks stunning with the bridge illuminated in flaming red. You must take your camera here to capture the astounding beauty of the lake and the activities around the lake.
There are many hotels, restaurants, and bars surrounding the lake. From Old Quarter it is an easy walk to Hoan Kiem Lake. Worth a quick 30 minutes stop and have a drink during your visit to Hanoi.
Ngoc Son Temple and Turtle Island
There are a few historical temples and buildings around the lake that are worth coupled during your visit to Hoan Kiem Lake.
At the north end of the Hoan Kiem Lake is an arched red wooden pedestrian bridge leading to Jade Island which houses the Ngoc Son temple. It was an 18th-century pagoda that was originally built during the Tran dynasty (1225-1400) but was last restored in 1865. It venerates Van Xuong, the god of literature, as well as La To (a physician) and Tran Hung Dao, a 13th-century leader who fought successful wars against the Nguyen.
While at the northern end of the Lake is a small island where a small tower called Turtle Tower is located. According to legend, Hoan Kiem Lake is the home to a mythical turtle who is a Vietnamese legend’s hero. The tower was built to honor the magic turtle that still guards the sword. Enormous turtles still lived in the lake until now.
Walk the lush trail surrounding Hoan Kiem Lake and visit its Ngoc Son Temple. There is a small entry fee but worth paying it to cross the picturesque red bridge and enter the temple.
Wandering in Hanoi Old Quarter
Hanoi Travel Blog – Wandering in Old Quarter
Next on the Hanoi itinerary is the infamous Hanoi Old Quarter. Basically, you’re not coming to Hanoi if you didn’t visit the old quarter! The Hanoi Old Quarter is the main attraction of the city and it is one of the top places to visit on your Hanoi itinerary. As a first-time tourist, you can truly enjoy Vietnam culture in this old and quaint part of Hanoi. It does give a very nostalgic feeling of how life could be those days.
Hanoi Old Quarter is quaint, historically interesting, and chaotic! There’re 36 dense streets in the area and every square meter is turned into a little business or shop and the energy pumps are non-stop. Each street name begins with “Hang” for Street, followed by the specific business or item located on the street for purchase, such as Hang Can for stationery or Hang Dau for shoes.
There have too many amazing things and you can find practically everything here with all types of products selling in the old quarter. It is very chaotic but very well-organized. From local produces, fruits, vegetables, silver jewelry, shoes, wallets, and clothes, up to shoe repair, you’ve got everything in the Old Quarter. If you wish to buy souvenirs for home, then this is the perfect place for that. Remember to bargain for a good price!
Hang Bac Street
Among all the streets in the area, The vibrant Hang Bac Street is an excellent introduction to the Old Quarter. Like all the streets in Hanoi, Hang Bac is cluttered and chaotic. It is the busiest street situated in Hanoi downtown packed with shops, restaurants, bars, people, and lots of motorcycles.
In fact, Hang Bac means “Silver Street” but these days you can find all kinds of things and all kinds of shops. The street offers something for everyone from fine high-end fashion and home boutiques, to jewelry, to convenience stores. A great place to meet with locals from all walks of life and a great way to get to know the people. Be careful and watch out for the motorcycles while you are walking on this street.
Train Street
Hanoi Train Street
Situated in Old Hanoi Quarter, between Le Duan and Kham Tien street is the famous Hanoi Train Street. The train street is a unique attraction where visitors can watch a train speeding through the street on both sides of houses at a meter distance. People will shut down their homes and activity paused while the train went by but then back to business as usual. One of the most popular spots in the city and should not miss when coming to Hanoi.
If you wanted to catch the train passing by, make sure to do some research before getting here. Still, the train schedule is hit-and-miss and not a train was as per the timetable. But you can still roughly rely on the train schedule we got from the official website:
When visiting Hanoi train street, it is best to find a place to sit down and take a drink at one of the cozy places along the train lane. All the cafes have great views so any place would be great. Just chose one, sat down, ordered some coffee, and waited for the train came.
It is fun when the train finally passes by. During this time, all the owners shouted to warn all tourists to stand within the safe zone. Listening to the last-minute scramble and loud whistler to clear the tables and chairs to make sure the train line gets empty. Truly a unique experience when the train passes very close, only a few inches away by while drinking fantastic Vietnamese coffee.
Definitely worth seeing this once and make sure to pack this spot into your Hanoi itinerary.
Have a cup of Vietnamese Coffee
Hanoi itinerary – Have a cup of Vietnamese Coffee
For a coffee lover, don’t miss the Vietnamese coffee in Hanoi. The charming Hanoi has some of the best tastier cafes and coffee shops. It is worth wandering around and getting lost in the city while ending with a cup of Vietnamese coffee in one of the authentic coffee shops.
We highly recommended sampled delicious egg coffee. It is an egg custard densely foamed up and served on top of black coffee. It may sound disgusting but it tasted extremely delicious.
Try Local Vietnamese Street Food
The walking tour of the Old Quarter was an enlightening experience especially coupled together with the local food that you can indulge in. Along your Hanoi itinerary, you can check out one of the many western cafes and restaurants or try some food from the local street food dealers.
Most of the famous Hanoi local foods are located in Hanoi Old Quarter such as Pho Bat Dan, Tao Pho, Bun Cha, salted apricot, Braised fish, Squid cake, and many more. It is truly an adventure to try street foods. The street food is very good and diverse but the price is very different from shops so remember to ask the price before ordering. Eat till you drop!
Ta Hien Street, which literally means beer street is the best street for enjoying the complete nightlife of Hanoi. The street is just only 200 meters long, Ta Hien Street is one of the most crowded streets I have been to in Hanoi filled with tourists and locals alike. There are many bars and street vendors where you can find a variety of Hanoi street foods with an ice-cold beer.
Most drinking is just done outside sitting on a small-sized plastic chair right on the street, having beer and food while people watching. The food and drink are slightly more expensive than in other places in the old quarter.
We had the authentic Vietnamese hotpot in one of the BBQ setup restaurants here. The food was delicious and the price is also reasonable. Most importantly, we enjoyed the atmosphere here. A perfect place where you can come and enjoy the atmosphere as well as the food and the drinks.
Hanoi Night Market
During the nighttime, the Hanoi Old quarter will be limited to motorcycles and cars so it becomes a good place to walk around. It’s very interesting to explore Hanoi at night with a lined of street foods scattered around the area.
Apart from that, don’t miss the Hanoi night market if you are visiting Hanoi during the weekend. The night market near the north side of the lake is a must-visit attraction with hundreds of vendors and street artists. You can walk around and enjoy a stroll in the street. There is often live music and performances make it very happening. Highly recommend you come to Hanoi on the weekend to take part in the atmosphere of the night market and walking street.
Other Attractions in Hanoi Downtown
There are a lot of attractions and small temples everywhere in the city which is really interesting. We didn’t have enough time to explore those attractions. You can plan it if you are interested.
St. Joseph’s Cathedral, Hanoi – A late 19th-century neo-Gothic Revival church with 31-meter-high twin bell towers. The cathedral is the oldest church in Hanoi and was constructed by the French government in 1886. It not only serves as the cathedral of the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Hanoi but welcomes everyone to come, attend and experience.
Temple of Literature is an amazing place with precious history, culture, and structure. Dedicated to Confucius, the temple was built in 1070 and was reconstructed during the Trần dynasty (1225–1400) and in the subsequent dynasties. It hosts the Imperial Academy where royal members studied in the past. This is also considered the first national university in Vietnam. Best place to learn about the history and culture of Vietnam since the 10th century.
Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum is the dominating structure dedicated to the hero of the nation. It serves as the final resting place for this revolutionary leader. A place to understand more about the History of Vietnam and what the people have gone through.
The famous Thong Long Water Puppet show is located in Old Quarter area right next to the Hoan Kiem Lake. The puppets are moved from under the water in a show that showcases the pillars of Vietnamese way of life, culture and even religion. There are several shows daily, make sure to reserve your Water Puppet Show Ticket in advanced.
How To Plan Hanoi Itinerary
There are so many things to do in Hanoi that it is hard to decide where to begin. Hanoi is a great base when traveling around Northern Vietnam. With 1, 2, or 3 days in the city, you can explore it beyond the typical tourist attractions.
On your Hanoi itinerary, we recommended spending at least one full day exploring the Hanoi downtown area at Old Quarter.
Started the day with great Vietnamese egg coffee at a local coffee shop in the Old Quarter. Spend some time touring around Hoan Kiem lake, Ngoc Son Temple, and Turtle Island. Followed by wandering around the areas and other interesting attractions in Old Quarter such as St Joseph Cathedral. If you are feeling hungry, stop by for a great lunch at one of the restaurants selling local cuisines. Continued with wandering around the area such as train street, Hang Bac Street, and other vibrant streets in the old quarter. A great day in Hanoi!
If you’d like to explore the ancient city, you can easily slow down your pace and explore Hanoi for more days. Alternatively, you can have a tour of Halong Bay which is about 3 hours from Hanoi. Spent at least one day to enjoy the serene and picturesque of Halong Bay.
Tour Depart from Hanoi
Sunset in Halong Bay
The stunning Halong Bay is a major tourist attraction and a must-see stop on your Hanoi itinerary. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is home to emerald waters and infinite towering limestone isles, islets, and caves topped by lush rainforests.
We recommended getting to Halong bay by joining a tour as the transportation is not well-connected. This is the most popular day trip from Hanoi with many people departing to Halong Bay every day. A not to be missed attraction if you are visiting Hanoi!
Hopefully you don’t feel too overwhelmed by all of the things we have discussed above.
The traffic and humanity are overwhelmingly congested. The sound of car and motorcycle horns every few seconds adds to the hustle and bustle of the place. It’s very challenging crossing the roads as cars and motorcycles can appear from any direction. Stay alert and enjoy the charm.
Food and drinks are cheap overall. You can indulge and learn more about Vietnam’s local cuisine in Hanoi. No matter your dietary requirements, you’ll be able to enjoy the food very much.
If you plan to do a tour, we recommend you compare prices on Klook and Viator – a TripAdvisor company. Both are reputation companies I can vouch for!
How many days should I spend in Hanoi? If possible, try to allocated at least one day to discover the bustling Hanoi downtown area.
Is Hanoi safe for tourists? Hanoi is a relatively safe city to travel to. The city is generally safe but some areas should be avoided, such as parts of Hanoi filled with clubs and bars that are usually filled with suspicious individuals. Be cautious and avoid these places late at night.
Is Hanoi worth the visit? I must say, you wouldn’t be disappointed at all by visiting Hanoi! From beautiful centuries-old architecture, and delicious Vietnamese food to smiling locals, you’ll find no lack of things to do in Hanoi.
Overview: A Visit To Hanoi
All in all, Hanoi is an amazing destination for all types of travelers, regardless if you’re interested in sightseeing, temples, gastronomy, a great night market scene, art, and everything else in-between.
We hope our suggestions help you plan your Hanoi itinerary. I’m hardly an expert on Hanoi but I do hope that you find this Hanoi travel guide useful. Hanoi is truly amazing and around every corner is something new.
On our Hanoi itinerary, we sampled delicious street food, tried the disgusting yet tasty egg coffee, and enjoyed strolling around the streets absorbing the hustle and bustle. We stayed at the Acoustic Hotel & Spa and fell in love with the convenient and all that it has to offer. Many great restaurants and interesting attractions are within walking distance. Highly recommended.
Lastly, if you need more travel inspiration for Northern Vietnam, here you can find the best articles to plan your trip including Sapa, Hanoi, and Ha Long Bay.
