A Day in Hanoi: Your Perfect Guide to Exploring the Heart of Vietnam!
- notxsofia
- Jul 12, 2024
- 5 min read
Updated: Dec 8, 2024
Visiting Hanoi, the first city I explored in Vietnam, was an extraordinary experience that gave me a deep insight into the country’s rich history and interesting culture. The capital of Vietnam holds a lot of history and culture. I visited in August when the frequent rain added a dramatic touch to the city’s already hypnotizing atmosphere. Despite the weather, I absolutely loved it and felt there was so much to explore. I can’t wait to visit again!
In this guide, you will find the route I took on my one-day journey through this incredible city as well as some of my tips to explore it and make the most out of your trip. Let's get to it!
Table of Contents
The Route
1. Hoan Kiem Lake
Our first stop is the legendary Hoan Kiem Lake, an important place for Hanoi's history and folklore. According to legend, during the 15th century under the Chinese Ming Dynasty's rule over Vietnam, Emperor Le Loi received a magical sword from a divine turtle while boating on the lake. This sword played a crucial role in his victory over the Ming forces, and after his triumph, Emperor Le Loi returned to the lake, where a large golden turtle took back the sword. In honour of this event, the lake was renamed "Ho Hoan Kiem", which means "Lake of the Returned Sword".
2. Huc Bridge (Red Bridge)
Next, we see the famous Huc Bridge, also known as the Red Bridge, which offers beautiful panoramic views over Hoan Kiem Lake. From here, you can see the Turtle Temple, a small pagoda on an islet in the lake dedicated to the mythical turtle I mentioned.
3. Jade Mountain Temple (Ngoc Son Temple)
This historic temple is dedicated to Tran Hung Dao, who led the Vietnamese Army to numerous triumphs against the Yuan Dynasty during the 13th century. You can also see the influence of Chinese culture in this temple. Indeed, Ngoc Son also honours Van Xuong De Quan, the God of prosperity in ancient Chinese culture and Taoist philosophy.
4. Cafe Giảng: Egg Coffee
I know I know... egg coffee? Believe me, it's a must! I have a sweet tooth and I absolutely loved it!
We take a well-deserved break at one of Hanoi’s most traditional coffee shops to taste a unique Vietnamese drink: Egg Coffee. Cafe Giảng is the birthplace of egg coffee, so there is no better place to give it a try!
5. Old Quarter of Hanoi
After our coffee break, we explore the busy streets of Hanoi’s Old Quarter. This neighbourhood is a maze of narrow streets filled with shops and food stalls. I especially enjoyed seeing the locals go around on bikes wearing their straw hats, felt like real Vietnam!
If you want to know how to know a good-quality Vietnamese straw hat click here!
6. Hanoi Train Street
Our final stop is the iconic Hanoi Train Street. This narrow street is surrounded by restaurants and coffee shops where travellers can sit and see the train pass by. It is truly impressive! The thrill of standing just centimetres away from the passing train is a unique and unforgettable experience.
Visiting Hanoi Train Street is not as easy as you may think. Due to safety concerns, the main entrance is now barricaded and guarded, but there is still a (legal) way to get in and get the experience. Click here to read my guide How To Visit Hanoi Train Street.
7. Hoa Lo Prison
As an optional visit, Hoa Lo Prison, also known as the "Hanoi Hilton". This place gives you a peek into Vietnam's turbulent history. Built by the French colonialists to imprison Vietnamese political prisoners, it was later used for US prisoners of war during the Vietnam War. The prison's exhibits and displays provide insights into the harsh conditions endured by its convicts.
Remember to be respectful when visiting this museum, since many people died and suffered in this place.
My Tips for Hanoi
1. Check the weather in advance
From May to October, Hanoi can be super rainy. Be sure to bring a poncho or umbrella and waterproof shoes to stay comfortable and dry.
2. Bring cash
Many places in Hanoi do not accept credit cards, so it's essential to carry cash with you. ATMs are widely available, so withdrawing Vietnamese Dong shouldn't be an issue.
3. Safety and Hospitality
Vietnam is a very safe and welcoming country. The locals are friendly and always willing to help, making your travel experience even more enjoyable!
4. Crossing the street
You have probably heard of how challenging it can be to cross the street in Vietnam. Not gonna lie, it is scary at first. The key here is to walk with confidence. Drivers are used to pedestrians, so maintain a steady pace and you will be okay!
Where To Stay in Hanoi
Based on the places I recommended in this guide, I suggest you stay at Hanoi Old Quarter. It is quite central and you will find most landmarks in this area.
Here are some hotel options!
Getting a SIM Card in Hanoi
To make sure you stay connected throughout your exploration of Hanoi, getting a local SIM card is the best move. At the airport, you can easily buy physical SIM cards at an affordable price, providing you with data and the convenience of local calls.
For a more convenient option, you might want to consider using an eSIM card such as Airalo. T The instant activation and the ability to manage your plan directly from your device guarantee a smooth and stress-free connectivity experience. Simply download the eSIM, and you're good to go!
Transportation in Hanoi
I am a big fan of walking. I think you get to appreciate a new city much more this way. If you don’t feel like walking, my top recommendation is to utilise apps like Grab or Gojek. Simple, effective, and no fights regarding the fees. Moreover, by linking your cards to these apps, you prevent cash-related issues with the driver.
If you choose to go with a traditional taxi, don't forget to ask the driver to use the taximeter. In case they refuse (which can happen), agree on a fare beforehand to avoid any confusion later on. This simple step ensures transparency and prevents unexpected charges when you arrive at your destination.
For those seeking a more exciting adventure, why not consider renting a scooter? It's a popular choice for adventurous souls who are comfortable with motorcycles, offering a sense of freedom and a unique way to explore the streets of Hanoi.
Conclusion
This one-day tour of Hanoi is a great introduction to Vietnam. It offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and local flavour. If you haven’t experienced your life-changing trip yet, I highly recommend adding Hanoi to your list. It certainly left a lasting impression on me, and I’m sure it will do the same for you. Happy travels!
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