I unilaterally declare Hanoi as the ultimate Citywalk destination in Southeast Asia! There’s simply no other place like it. Just a short 2-hour flight, and you’ll uncover a treasure trove of a city that will leave you in awe. I’d be devastated if I hadn’t experienced this gem 😭
1️⃣ Hanoi is a walker’s paradise: The city is incredibly safe, with motorcycles in the old town moving at a leisurely pace, and all the major attractions are within walking distance. This makes it far more pedestrian-friendly than many other Southeast Asian cities.
2️⃣ A haven for history buffs: Hanoi is a living museum, preserving its rich heritage better than many other southern cities.
From ancient temples to colonial architecture, every corner tells a story that will delight any history enthusiast.
3️⃣ A food lover’s dream: Beyond the famous Pho, Hanoi offers a plethora of local snacks and street food. No matter how much you walk, your taste buds will always be satisfied.
If you’re a student or a busy professional, a weekend trip to Hanoi is perfect:
Day 1 Morning: Begin your journey at St. Joseph’s Cathedral, then stroll along Trang Tien Street, admiring the colonial charm of landmarks like the Sofitel Legend, Vietnam Guest House, Central Bank, and the Grand Theatre.
Don’t miss the Vietnam History Museum (formerly the French Far Eastern School) or the haunting Hoa Lo Prison.
Day 1 Afternoon: Dive into the vibrant Old Quarter, starting from the picturesque Hoan Kiem Lake. Explore the 36 Streets, savoring local treats at Cafe Giang, visiting the Ma May Ancient House, Bach Ma Temple, Dong Xuan Market, and the Hang Dua Water Tower.
Cap off the day with a stunning sunset over the Red River 🌄 at Long Bien Bridge. In the evening, immerse yourself in a traditional water puppet show at the Water Puppet Theatre.
Day 2 Morning: Start your day at the serene Temple of Literature, followed by a visit to Ba Dinh Square to see Ho Chi Minh’s Mausoleum and the Presidential Palace.
In the afternoon, head to the quirky Train Street; you can enjoy the unique atmosphere without spending a dime on coffee ☕️, as many street corners offer free entry.
Day 2 Afternoon: Discover the Imperial Citadel of Thang Long, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the poignant War Remnants Museum. As the sun sets, exit through the North Gate and make your way to Tran Quoc Pagoda and Zhen Guo Temple, where you can watch the sunset over West Lake 🌄.
On your way, pay a visit to the John McCain Memorial, a tribute to the former U.S. presidential candidate who was shot down during the Vietnam War.
If you have more time, consider a day trip from Hanoi to Ninh Binh, often called the “Halong Bay on land,” or the breathtaking Halong Bay itself. Both are UNESCO World Heritage Sites and offer unforgettable experiences.
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