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Hanoi. Pho, chaos, and heavy traffic with millions of scooters. That is the capital of Vietnam with over 8 million people. The city offers rich culture, street foods, cheap shopping clothes, day trips, and many more!
So how to choose the right things if you have 4 days?
With this 4 days itinerary in Hanoi, you will know everything for your next adventure and why you will be a millionaire in Vietnam!
After visiting Hong Kong, Beijing, Bangkok, and many other cities in Asia we decided to have a look at Hanoi. We spent there a couple of days, so now we can help you how to make your 4 days itinerary in Hanoi.
Table of Contents
THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE COMING TO HANOI
Visa
To enter Vietnam most visitors will require a visa. You can apply online for an electronic E-visa, valid for a maximum of 90 days with single or multiple entries. We used this website for a visa to Vietnam and we paid 25 USD for a single entry visa.
Currency
Vietnamese đồng (VND) is the official currency.
1 EUR = 27,105.573649 VND
1 USD = 25,345.340299 VND
(always check the current rate)
This is the reason why during your 4 days itinerary in Hanoi you will be a millionaire.
Crossing the road
You must be a little bit of a stuntman to cross the road. Cars will not stop, no matter if is on the traffic light green, orange, or red they just go, so you just must go too. In the beginning, we just followed the locals but after a few days, you already do it on your own and it is kind of fun!
Food
Vietnamese cuisine is considered one of the healthiest cuisines in the world. The main part of everyday meals is rice, which is grown in water fields all over the country. Vietnamese dishes combine ingredients such as vegetables, herbs, and meat, which are further processed by cooking, stewing, or frying.
If you are going to visit Hanoi, you should definitely try their cuisine, such as:
Pho – the national dish of Vietnam (broth, rice noodles, and herbs usually with beef meat sometimes chicken)
Banh mi (Vietnamese sandwich with chicken and pickled vegetables)
Goi cuon (spring rolls filled with pork meat, shrimp, and vegetables wrapped in rice paper)
For fans of Vietnamese cuisine coming to the country to learn how to cook like a local, you will find several culinary courses in the city. Most of them provide street food and coffee tours around the capital.
Tip: Here you can see all your options for hotels in Hanoi
HOW TO GET AROUND
Getting from the Noi Bai Airport (HAN)
Hanoi airport is located approximately 30km from Hanoi Old Quarter and the are a few public buses that connect the Noi Bai Airport with the Hanoi city center.
Bus no.17 direction Long Bien
Operating time starts at 5 am and finishes at 10 pm and runs every 10-15 minutes.
The ticket price is 9000 VND and the journey takes about 1 hour, depending on the traffic
This bus can get crowded, so if you have a large suitcase it can be difficult for you.
Bus no.86 direction Old Quarter
This express bus line connects the Noi Bai Airport with Hanoi Railway Station.
Operating time starts at 7 am and finishes at 10 pm and runs every 25 minutes.
The ticket price is 45000 VND and the journey takes about 50 minutes.
Bus no.7 direction Cau Giay
Operating time starts at 5 am and finishes at 10:30 pm and runs every 10-15 minutes.
The ticket price is 8000 VND and the journey takes about 1-1,5 hours.
Grab
With this app, you can pre-order your transfer and see the price before you book it. You can get directly to your accommodation and around Hanoi too. The best way to avoid taxi scams or overcrowded buses. You pay cash to the driver.
Tip: The Grab app is your best option for moving around during your 4 days itinerary in Hanoi.
Taxi
The taxi stop is located outside of the exit gate.
The journey takes about 30 minutes to 1 hour. Depends on your location.
The price is about 400 000 VND.
Getting around Hanoi
By taxi
Hanoi has a few taxi companies you can use. Taxi Group with white cars or Mai Linh with green cars. Motorbikes and cyclo taxis are known for scamming, so better to avoid them.
The best way is to use a Grab app.
By scooter
If you believe in yourself you can rent a cheap scooter, but the traffic is crazy, so be careful!
Hotels can often arrange rent for you.
By walk
So far it is the best option. Traffic is insane in Hanoi, so walking is the right choice, you save time and money and you can explore the city even more.
By bus
Scam free and a very cheap option. Can be crowded during the peak hours and confusing with all 60 bus lines but it is a good way to go. just use Google Maps or ask locals for your stop where you want to get off.
By metro
In 2021 Hanoi opened its first line from Cát Linh west of the Old Quarter to Yên Nghĩa in the southwestern suburbs. The line is not very useful for most visitors but the future line from Hanoi Station across the city centre should be more helpful.
4 DAYS ITINERARY IN HANOI
Day 1 – Hanoi – Old Quarter and shopping
The first day of your 4 days itinerary in Hanoi starts with nothing but a good coffee. Vietnam has its traditional Ca Phe Sua Da coffee. It is dark roast coffee poured over ice and sweetened with condensed milk. In the city, you will find many streets where you can have a coffee in a quiet cafe or, on the contrary, in the very center full of scooters and bustle. Probably the most famous place in all of Hanoi is the well-known street with a passing train just around the cafes lining the rails.
Hanoi Train Street
It is located 900m from Hanoi Railway Station towards the Old Quarter. Around the station you will find many cafes, just go in the direction of the tracks and choose. You can find out the train schedule at the train
station, and most of the local staff working in hotels can also advise you on the best time to visit this famous street. Some of the cafes also offer other types of Vietnamese coffee, such as Egg Coffee (coffee with egg
whites) and coconut Coffee (coffee with coconut and condensed milk).
Hoan Kiem Lake
About 15 minutes on foot from the famous street with a passing train, there is this calm lake. Lined with reeds and flowerbeds, this is a great place to relax with many benches, or you can walk around the entire
lake, Ngoc Son Temple is located in its area.
Ngoc Son Temple
The Confucian temple is located on the Hoan Kiem lake, a red footbridge leads to it. The temple dates from the beginning of the 19th century.
Entrance to the temple costs 30 000 VND. Beautiful views of the lake and its surroundings from the red footbridge are free.
Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre
The theater is 230m from Ngoc Son Temple. The colorful puppets follow the example of everyday life in a village in the north of Vietnam. Some programs include shows of Vietnamese folk tales. This show usually lasts 50 minutes shows start at 3:30 pm – 5 pm – 6:30 pm – 8 pm – 9:15 pm daily.
The tickets start at 100 000 VND and they are selling fast.
Cau Go Street and Dong Kinh Nghia Thuc Square
The shopping street together with the square is part of the old quarters of Hanoi. During the day, full of traffic chaos, in the evening it turns into a pedestrian zone and the place where the markets start.
The North Face Factory Outlet Original 105
The shop is 450m from the Thang Long Water Puppet Theater. It is a store of outdoor clothing, as this clothing is often sewn in Vietnam. You can buy clothes and accessories here at reasonable prices, and if you
negotiate well, you may even get a discount.
Hanoi Old Quarter
The Old Quarter is 450m from the outdoor clothing store. Probably the most famous shopping district, a place full of shops, coffee, and restaurants. There is a reason why, the streets are full of life and show
you the bustling side of Hanoi. A good place for a walk combined with good food and souvenir shopping or wandering around the city.
Ta Hien Beer Street
The most famous street in Hanoi in terms of bars and nightlife. You can end the evening here with a good dinner or a drink in one of the many establishments scattered around the old part of the city. It is a place
where live music, street food, and local people but also tourists meet and it is definitely worth a visit.
ADDITIONAL STOP ON 4 DAYS ITINERARY IN HANOI
St. Joseph Cathedral
Catholic church located near Hoan Kiem Lake only 900 meters from Hanoi Train Street. The Gothic church from the end of the 19th century serves as a cathedral, it is named after Joseph, the patron saint of
Vietnam. It is the oldest church in Hanoi.
Admission is free.
Tip: Here you can see all your options for hotels in Hanoi
Day 2 – Day trip to Ha Long Bay
Ha Long
The bay in the Gulf of Tonkin is one of the most famous tourist attractions in Vietnam. Famously known for its amazing limestone mountains that rise up from emerald waters. It is part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site. There are many activities around the bay such as kayaking, swimming, or squid fishing. You can also visit floating villages, and charming caves that will help you create an image of the local way of life.
A day trip to the bay is the perfect way to visit this iconic place in Vietnam.
It’s your choice whether you visit Ha Long by public transport or choose one of the many travel agencies offering day trips to Ha Long from the capital city.
How to get there
By public bus
The cheapest and budget-friendly way to get to Ha Long. The journey takes 2-3 hours, with a one-way ticket from 100 000 to 250 000 VND.
Many bus companies offer different price categories. Most public buses to Ha Long run at night, so you save not only money but also time. The pick-up point for public buses is the My Dinh station, where you can also
buy tickets.
By shuttle bus
Another option is to rent a ride in a shuttle bus, a smaller bus with a small capacity, air conditioning, and more luxurious leather seats, often with Wi-Fi throughout the ride. Many hotels offer day trips to Ha Long on
these buses. The advantage is that they will pick you up directly in front of the hotel. Ticket prices range from 350 000 to 500 000 VND per ride.
The journey takes around 2,5 hours.
By private car
Along with Ha Long cruises, it is also possible to book a private car. You can contact travel agencies offering full-day trips to Ha Long. This option is especially suitable for families with children and smaller groups of
people. One-way ticket prices range from 1 200 000 to 2 500 000 VND.
The journey takes around 2,5 hours.
By train
There is currently no train connection between Hanoi and Ha Long.
Day 3 – Hanoi – One Pillar Pagoda, Ho Chi Minh Museum / Mausoleum, Tran Quoc Pagoda
Continue your 4 days itinerary in Hanoi again.
One Pillar Pagoda
Located in the central district of Ba Đình. About a 14-minute walk from Hanoi Train Street. It is historically a Buddhist temple, the most significant part of the architectural complex is Liên Hoa Đài, which means lotus pedestal. The original Pagoda was built in 1049 and was perfected to its final form in 1105. It is one of Vietnam’s iconic temples.
In 1956, it was destroyed by the forces of the French Union before they withdrew from Vietnam after the First Indochina War. Later it was rebuilt.
Ho Chi Minh Museum
Located only 250m from One Pillar Pagoda. This museum is dedicated to the late Vietnamese leader Ho Chi Minh and Vietnam’s revolutionary struggle against foreign powers. The museum consists of a collection of artifacts, miniatures, more than 170 000 documents, objects, and films about the president and his revolutionary work.
The entrance fee to the museum is 40 120 VND.
Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum
It is approximately 500m from the museum of the same name. It is the final resting place where the body of the Vietnamese leader Ho Chi Minh is displayed. Since the entrance to the mausoleum is free, it is recommended to arrive as early as possible, as the place is full of locals and students. The tour itself is only for a few minutes, before entering they will take your camera and liquids if you are bringing them.
Quan Thanh Temple
The Taoist temple located only 750m from the mausoleum lies on the edge of the lake. This beautiful temple is not very crowded, the entrance fee is 10 000 VND.
Tran Quoc Pagoda
In another 650m, you will find a traditional Buddhist temple built on a small island with a number of shrines. The pagoda is located in picturesque surroundings. We strongly recommend visiting during
sunrise or sunset for breathtaking views. As the oldest Buddhist temple in the city, it is a must-visit. There is a promenade by the lake nearby, which is also charming.
ADDITIONAL STOP ON 4 DAYS ITINERARY IN HANOI
Thanglong Royal City
900m from Hanoi Train Street is the Imperial City with buildings and statues from the 11th century, with a tower and a stone dragon. A good place to learn the history of Vietnam.
The entrance fee is 30 000 VND.
Temple of Literature
A Confucian temple with many altars and shrines and an impressive entrance gate located 1,1 km from Thanglong Royal City. It is considered one of the must-visit places in Vietnam. It is a common practice in Hanoi for graduating students to visit the Temple and offer their prayers.
The entrance fee is 70 000 VND.
Tip: Here you can see all your options for hotels in Hanoi
Day 4 – Ninh Binh
On your last day of 4 days itinerary in Hanoi you will visit the province of Vietnam in the northern part of the country is known for its many natural and cultural attractions. It is often nicknamed Ha Long Bay on land. This area is 92 km away from the capital city, which makes it a perfect one-day trip from Hanoi. In the city, you can find many travel agencies offering day trips to Ninh Binh, or you can make it on your own by using public transport.
How to get there
By bus
Taking the public bus is the cheapest way to get to Ninh Binh. You only need to visit one of the larger bus stations, such as Hanoi My Dinh station, and buy a ticket there. Ticket prices range from 80 000 VND for a
basic bus to 200 000 VND and more for a luxury bus.
The bus journey takes 2 to 3 hours mostly depending on traffic.
By train
There are 5 trains a day from the capital to Ninh Binh. The first train leaves after 6 am. The train journey takes 2 to 2,5 hours.
Ticket prices start at 162 660 VND per ride for adults. The train route offers travelers a unique perspective of Vietnam’s natural beauty and culture.
Tip: Read also our itinerary for one of the smallest countries in Europe Malta.
WHERE TO STAY IN HANOI
A well-known location for accommodation for your 4 days itinerary in Hanoi is the Old Quarter neighborhood due to its most famous street food alleys, the availability of shops, and everything within walking distance. We lived in Old Quarter and we walked from there everywhere around.
The second location suitable for tourists is Ba Dinh due to its central location and short distance from the city center.
➡️ Check all available hotels in Cairo on Booking.com. It’s our favorite booking platform.
If you are more budget traveler you can check Hostelworld where you find cheaper options with shared facilities. ✅
THE BEST TIME TO VISIT
Hanoi has a humid subtropical climate with four seasons. The best time to use this 4 days itinerary in Hanoi Hanoi is from February to April or from late September to November when the temperatures are pleasant, not too hot and dry. During the summer months of May and September, it is extremely hot and it is the official monsoon season. December and January are the coldest and are considered off-season months.
WHERE TO GO AFTER HANOI?
Considering extending your stay in the country after your 4 days itinerary in Hanoi? We recommend visiting Ho Chi Minh City or Sapa.
To Ho Chi Minh City you can take a train which is an amazing ride through Vietnam!
Vietnam borders many must-visit Asian countries such as China, Cambodia, Laos, and Thailand. After our visit to Vietnam, we took a night bus to Laos. We stayed there for a few days and moved on to Thailand. Keep in mind that if you leave Vietnam and want to return there during your visit to Asia, you will need a two-entry visa to the country.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Is Hanoi a cheap city?
Hanoi is a very affordable city. From food, and transportation to accommodation. You can find hostels for 5€!
If you eat street food you save money too. And if you like a Northface you can find very cheap prices. You will not spend too much money during your 4 days itinerary in Hanoi.
Is Hanoi a good tourist destination?
Yes. Hanoi is a well-known tourist destination. Despite the fact that Vietnam as a whole has a lot to offer in terms of natural and cultural attractions, the capital city certainly has its own typical atmosphere. From markets and shopping streets of the old part of the city with a bustling atmosphere, to peaceful parks and temples. Hanoi is a mixture of hustle and bustle, calmness, the smell of food, and endless traffic.
Are shorts OK in Vietnam?
Wearing short shorts and a sleeveless top is completely normal for both men and women in most common cases in Vietnam. However, if you are going to visit Buddhist temples, the traditional culture in Vietnam is very conservative, so as a sign of respect you should consider more clothing.
How many days in Hanoi is enough?
You will need 2-3 days to visit the city itself, but if you plan to visit Ha Long Bay, add an extra day or visit Ninh Binh, which will also take 1-2 days to explore. Make at least 4 days itinerary in Hanoi to explore must-see things.
OUR FAVORITE TRAVEL RESOURCES
Accommodation: We use Booking.com where we always find great deals for hotels.
For hostels, we use Hostelworld where we find cheaper options and meet new people.
Rental cars: To rent your car with free cancellation check out Discover Cars.
Ferries: For cheap ferry tickets worldwide we use Direct Ferries.
All travel options in one place: Omio.com we use for easy travel planning where we can find trains, buses, ferries, and more.
Tours and other activities: Wherever we go we look at GetYouGuide to find the best tours and many other activities around the world!
Travel insurance: Never travel without travel insurance! Ekta works all over the world and has 10 years of experience in the industry. It is your right choice!
Reviews: Before we travel somewhere we always look at Tripadvisor, where we always find a summary of restaurants, places to visit, or hotels with current ratings and photos from people who have visited this place recently.
Luggage storage: Radical storage is such a helpful Luggage storage network! When we have a late check-in or an early check-out we don’t need to carry our luggage with us, we just simply put it in the Radical storage which operates in over 70 countries!
E-sim card: The best way how avoid all the stress of searching for local SIM cards or wifi signals and save time after you arrive in your new country is to get Airalo e-sim. Download and install a digital data pack from 200+ countries/regions!
