Vietnam Hanoi Trip 3 Nights 4 Days Model Itinerary – Introducing Recommended Spots

Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam, is a historic city with a nostalgic atmosphere and countless sights and attractions.

In this article, a Japanese resident of Hanoi introduces a recommended 3-night, 4-day model itinerary for Hanoi.

We explain the sights in detail for each day and share plenty of special tips to make your trip even more enjoyable.

Whether you are visiting for sightseeing or already living in Vietnam, please use this as a reference!

 

Good to know: Useful Hanoi information 

 

Autumn is the best season for a Hanoi trip

The best season for a trip to Hanoi is autumn, from October to November.

There is little rain during this period, and the cool, comfortable climate makes sightseeing pleasant.

Hanoi, located in northern Vietnam, has four seasons, and autumn is especially comfortable.
 

Be careful with money calculations!

One thing to watch out for when shopping is calculating money.

Vietnam’s currency, VND (Vietnamese dong), is known for having many digits, and if you’re not used to it, quick calculations can feel difficult.

However, converting VND to Japanese yen is very simple: drop the last three digits and multiply the remaining number by 6.

For example, 50,000 VND becomes 50 × 6 = 300 yen.
 

Transportation for sightseeing

For getting around while sightseeing, taxis are recommended.

If you install the ride-hailing app Grab in advance, moving around during sightseeing will be convenient and smooth.

City buses also operate, but they are a bit more challenging.

Routes are complex, bus stops can be hard to find, and schedules can be irregular.

 

Safety in Hanoi

Hanoi is considered relatively safe, but there are a few things to be careful about.

There are incidents targeting tourists, such as snatch theft and pickpocketing.

Avoid carrying valuables or large amounts of cash, and refrain from walking alone at night. Stay vigilant.
 

Prices in Hanoi

Prices in Hanoi tend to be lower overall compared to Japan.

However, in recent years, prices have been rising, especially in urban areas.
 

Hanoi 3 nights 4 days recommended model itinerary

On a 3-night, 4-day trip to Hanoi, you can balance exploring the Old Quarter, visiting iconic landmarks, and taking day trips to the suburbs.

We hope our recommended model itinerary helps you fully enjoy sightseeing in Hanoi.
 

Day 1: After arrival, stroll the Old Quarter and visit St. Joseph’s Cathedral

On Day 1, stroll through the retro “Old Quarter” and visit St. Joseph’s Cathedral, a symbolic landmark of Hanoi.

Take your time to enjoy Hanoi’s representative streetscapes.
 

Hanoi Old Quarter

The Hanoi Old Quarter is a deep and fascinating area.

Each street is lined with shops specializing in the same type of goods—such as basket bags, dried fruits, and stationery—making shopping easy and perfect for finding souvenirs.

It’s enjoyable even just to look around.
 

Address

P. Hàng Ngang, Hàng Đào, Hoàn Kiếm, Hà Nội

 

St. Joseph’s Cathedral

St. Joseph’s Cathedral is an emblematic church of Hanoi.

Its interior is adorned with stained glass imported from Italy, creating a dreamy atmosphere.

It is always bustling with many visitors.
 

Address	40 P. Nhà Chung, Hàng Trống, Hoàn Kiếm, Hà Nội
Hours	8:00 a.m.–11:00 a.m. 2:00 p.m.–5:00 p.m.
Closed	None
Admission	Free

 

Day 2: Tour the city’s landmarks

On Day 2, to get to know Hanoi more deeply, visit traditional performing arts and historical architecture.

Hanoi has many long-standing buildings and plenty to see.

Be sure to experience the beauty of Vietnamese culture.
 

Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum

The Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum is one of Hanoi’s most famous tourist spots.

This is known as the resting place of the famed Vietnamese leader Ho Chi Minh.

If you visit, going first thing in the morning is recommended.

The viewing hours are limited to the morning, and it is always crowded with both tourists and locals.
 

Address	1 Hùng Vương, Điện Biên, Ba Đình, Hà Nội
Hours	April–October: 7:30 a.m.–10:30 a.m. November–March: 8:00 a.m.–11:00 a.m.
Closed	Monday and Friday
Admission	25,000 VND (approx. 150 JPY)

 

Imperial Citadel of Thang Long

The Thang Long Imperial Citadel was registered as Vietnam’s sixth UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2010.

It is a very important site for learning about the history of Vietnam’s ancient dynasties.

You can see remains of palaces, temples, and walls that have survived from ancient times.
 

Address	19c Hoàng Diệu, Điện Biên, Ba Đình, Hà Nội
Hours	8:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m.
Closed	None
Admission	100,000 VND (approx. 600 JPY)
Official website	https://hoangthanhthanglong.vn/

 

Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre

Water puppetry originated in northern Vietnam and is a traditional puppet show performed on the surface of the water.

You’ll be drawn in by the puppets’ comical movements.

This show, which has been performed for over 1,000 years, faithfully recreates scenes from the past and has a very long history.
 

Address	57B P. Đinh Tiên Hoàng, Hàng Bạc, Hoàn Kiếm, Hà Nội
Hours	Five performances from 3:00 p.m.
Closed	None
Admission	Varies by seat
Official website	https://nhahatmuaroithanglong.vn/

 

Day 3: Head out to the suburbs

If you’ve come all the way to Hanoi, why not venture out a bit and visit some World Heritage sites in the suburbs?

Here are two destinations you can visit on a day trip.
 

Ha Long Bay Cruise

The first is a Ha Long Bay cruise.

Ha Long Bay, in Quang Ninh Province in northern Vietnam, is a world-famous scenic area with ethereal views.

It is registered as a World Heritage Site, and its breathtaking scenery is well worth seeing.

As one of Vietnam’s premier tourist destinations, we highly recommend taking a cruise here.

It’s about a 4-hour drive from Hanoi to Ha Long Bay.
 

Ninh Binh

The second is a trip to Ninh Binh.

Known as the “Ha Long Bay on land,” it is famous for its spectacular scenery.

Highlights abound, including the mixed cultural landscape of Trang An, a World Heritage Site.

It takes about 2 hours by car from Hanoi to Ninh Binh.
 

Day 4: On the last day, stroll around Hoan Kiem Lake and buy souvenirs

It’s finally the last day.

Since you’ll be returning home this day, keep a relaxed schedule.

Enjoy the scenery, pick up a few more souvenirs…
 

Hoan Kiem Lake

Hoan Kiem Lake is a large lake right next to the Old Quarter and a relaxing spot you can enjoy from morning till night.

You can walk around the lake, sit on a bench and take in the view—there are many ways to enjoy it.

On weekends, the area becomes a pedestrian zone, drawing many tourists, families, and couples, making it even more lively.
 

Dong Xuan Market

If you want to buy souvenirs but are short on time, head to Dong Xuan Market.

It’s the largest market in central Hanoi and is lively with shoppers all day long.

From clothes, shoes, sundries, toys, to dried fruits and nuts, the selection is so extensive you’ll be spoiled for choice.

 

Address	Đồng Xuân, Hoàn Kiếm District, Hanoi
Hours	7:00 a.m.–6:00 p.m. (varies by shop)
Closed	None

 

Hang Da Market

Hang Da Market is located underground and is known as a “treasure trove warehouse.”

It retains the atmosphere of an old-fashioned market.

The specialty here is Bat Trang pottery. You can buy Bat Trang ware at reasonable prices without going all the way to Bat Trang Village in the suburbs.

 

Address	P. Hàng Da, Cửa Đông, Hoàn Kiếm, Hà Nội
Hours	5:00 a.m.–8:00 p.m. (varies by shop)
Closed	None

 

Collective Memory

Collective Memory is the perfect shop for choosing tasteful, Vietnam-inspired souvenirs.

Run by a Vietnamese owner couple, it is a select shop featuring items they discovered while traveling across Vietnam.

Everything is lovely—you’ll get excited just browsing.

 

Address	12 P. Nhà Chung, Hàng Trống, Hoàn Kiếm, Hà Nội
Hours	10:00 a.m.–6:30 p.m.
Closed	None
Official website	Collective Memory

 

Em Hanoi

Em Hanoi is a stylish and popular gift shop in Ba Dinh District with a wide selection of items.

Its curated selection showcases the taste of its Japanese owner and features many trending items and cosmetics in Vietnam.

From sundries and tableware to accessories, clothing, and original products, the range is broad—making it a favorite among tourists and residents alike.
 

Address	12 P. Nguyễn Văn Ngọc, Cống Vị, Ba Đình, Hà Nội
Hours	10:00 a.m.–7:00 p.m.
Closed	Monday

 

Must-try foods on your Hanoi trip

Hanoi has plenty of delicious Vietnamese dishes.

Be sure to try them between sightseeing or to wrap up your day.

By understanding local hygiene conditions and enjoying your meals accordingly, your travel memories will be even richer.
Hanoi’s hygiene conditions
 

Hanoi’s hygiene conditions cannot be called good.

To freely explore attractions and enjoy the food, it’s important to understand hygiene considerations.
 

1. Food

Vietnam’s hot and humid climate makes food poisoning more likely.

Avoid raw foods as much as possible and make sure dishes are thoroughly cooked.

Carrying disinfectant wipes provides extra peace of mind.
 

2. Water

Water purification technology is still developing in Vietnam, so do not drink tap water.

When you need water, buy bottled mineral water at convenience stores or supermarkets.
 

3. Toilets

Depending on the place, toilets may be unsanitary.

Clean toilets are available in upscale hotels, restaurants, and large shopping centers.

Toilet paper may not be available, so carry pocket tissues just in case.

Also, do not flush toilet paper; dispose of it in the basket nearby as per local rules.
 

Classic local dishes in Hanoi

Pho: Pho Thin

Pho Thin is a super famous, long-established shop in Hanoi where you can savor traditional flavors.

The menu is beef pho only. The piping-hot, rich, umami-packed broth clings to the noodles, offering a deep flavor.

It’s a staple in guidebooks and is lively from early morning with both tourists and locals.

There are also branches in Tokyo’s Shinjuku and Ikebukuro.
 

Address	13 P. Lò Đúc, Ngô Thì Nhậm, Hai Bà Trưng, Hà Nội
Hours	5:00 a.m.–10:00 p.m.
Closed	None

 

Bun Cha: Bun Cha Dac Kim

Bun cha is a specialty of Hanoi.

Grilled pork belly and meat patties are served in a sweet-and-sour fish sauce-based dipping broth, and you dip rice noodles called “bun” into it to eat.

Enjoying hot bun cha in a local-style interior is a great way to savor traditional Hanoi flavors.
 

Address	1 P. Hàng Mành, Hàng Gai, Hoàn Kiếm, Hà Nội
Hours	9:00 a.m.–9:00 p.m.
Closed	None

 

Banh mi: Banh Mi 25

When it comes to popular banh mi shops, Banh Mi 25, which opened in 2014, is a top pick.

The menu is extensive, making it hard to choose.

Chicken and pork banh mi are especially popular and frequently ordered.
 

Address	25 P. Hàng Cá, Hàng Bồ, Hoàn Kiếm, Hà Nội
Hours	7:00 a.m.–10:00 p.m.
Closed	None

 

Popular, nicer restaurants in Hanoi

Vietnamese cuisine: Quan An Ngon

If you want to enjoy a variety of Vietnamese dishes, this is the place for you.

Every dish is reputed to be very tasty, and it’s always bustling with people.

Banh xeo (Vietnamese savory crepes) is a popular item.

 

Address	18 P. Phan Bội Châu, Cửa Nam, Hoàn Kiếm, Hà Nội
Hours	6:30 a.m.–10:30 p.m.
Closed	None

 

Western cuisine: Pizza 4P’s

Pizza 4P’s is an extremely famous, reservation-essential restaurant run by Japanese in Vietnam.

It’s a popular Italian restaurant with locations not only in Hanoi but also in Ho Chi Minh City and Da Nang.

The piping-hot pizzas baked in a large oven are exquisite; pasta and cheeses are also recommended.

Recently, it has drawn even more attention after opening in Tokyo.
 

Address	11B P. Báo Khánh, Alley, Hoàn Kiếm, Hà Nội Other locations available
Hours	10:30 a.m.–11:00 p.m.
Closed	None

 

Relaxing at cafes is also recommended

Egg coffee: Cafe Giang

Coffee is one of Vietnam’s specialties.
There are so many types on cafe menus that you may struggle to choose.

When that happens, be sure to try Vietnam’s famous egg coffee—coffee topped with whipped egg.

Cafe Giang is known as a famous spot for egg coffee.

Do drop by between shopping and sightseeing.
 

Address	39 P. Nguyễn Hữu Huân, Lý Thái Tổ, Hoàn Kiếm, Hà Nội
Hours	7:00 a.m.–10:00 p.m.
Closed	None

 

Yogurt coffee: Cong Cafe

Another recommended Vietnamese coffee menu item is yogurt coffee.

Cong Cafe is reputed for its yogurt coffee, and many guests relax while enjoying it.

The flavor blends yogurt with coffee—sweet yet refreshing to drink.
 

Address	27 P. Nhà Thờ, Hàng Trống, Hoàn Kiếm, Hà Nội Other locations available
Hours	7:30 a.m.–11:30 p.m.
Closed	None

 

Che: Che 4 Mua

Che is a famous, traditional Vietnamese dessert.

Che combines a variety of ingredients—beans, tapioca, agar, fruit, and coconut milk—resulting in many variations.

Cold che is perfect for hot weather, with a light sweetness.

There’s also warm che, so you can enjoy it according to the season and your preferences.

Find your favorite che at this very popular shop.

 

Address	4 P. Hàng Cân, Hàng Bồ, Hoàn Kiếm, Hà Nội
Hours	9:30 a.m.–11:00 p.m.
Closed	None

 
 

Summary

There are so many places to enjoy in Hanoi!

In addition to numerous tourist spots, there are plenty of places for shopping and gourmet food, making it a great city for those who want to fully enjoy their trip.

Come and visit Hanoi, where you can experience many kinds of fun while interacting with warm, smiling Vietnamese people.