🇻🇳 Your Authentic 4-Day Vietnam Itinerary

Start your morning with a visit to the Temple of Literature (Văn Miếu – Quốc Tử Giám). Founded in 1070, it’s a wonderfully preserved example of traditional Vietnamese architecture. Afterwards, take a cyclo ride or a taxi to the area around Hoan Kiem Lake. Walk across the iconic red Huc Bridge to visit the Ngoc Son Temple, which sits on a small island in the lake. Learn about the legend of the giant turtle that gave the lake its name (“Lake of the Returned Sword”).

In the afternoon, prepare for a full immersion into the Old Quarter. The best activity is simply to wander and observe. Each street was historically named for the craft or good sold there, and you can still see remnants of this today. In the evening, the highlight is a guided street food tour. This is the best way to navigate the complex food scene and find the most authentic and delicious local specialties. Your guide will take you to famous, family-run stalls and restaurants to sample a variety of iconic Hanoi dishes, ending with a classic Vietnamese egg coffee.

Young Travelers: In the evening, after the food tour, head to Ta Hien Street, famously known as “Beer Corner.” This is the quintessential backpacker and local hangout, where you can sit on a tiny plastic stool, drink cheap and refreshing *bia hoi* (fresh draft beer), and soak up the incredibly lively atmosphere.

Seniors: The Temple of Literature and the area around Hoan Kiem Lake are flat and pleasant for walking. Consider a cyclo (pedicab) tour of the Old Quarter for a comfortable and classic way to see the sights without navigating the chaotic traffic on foot. A traditional water puppet show is a delightful and seated cultural experience for the evening.

Families: The Temple of Literature has gardens where kids can walk around. A cyclo ride is fun for all ages. The Vietnamese Women’s Museum, located near the lake, is an excellent and engaging museum with fascinating displays on family life and traditional costumes that can be interesting for older children.

Travelers with Disabilities: Navigating Hanoi’s Old Quarter can be extremely challenging for wheelchair users due to crowded, uneven sidewalks often obstructed by motorbikes. The Temple of Literature and Hoan Kiem Lake area are more accessible. Booking a private tour with an accessible vehicle is the most practical way to see the city’s highlights.

Luxury Travel: Hire a private guide for an in-depth tour of the city’s history. Attend a private cooking class in a beautiful villa to learn the secrets of royal Vietnamese cuisine. In the evening, dine at a high-end restaurant in a restored French colonial building, such as La Badiane or Press Club.

Adventure Travel: The adventure today is on the back of a motorbike. Join a guided motorbike tour of the city, which takes you through the chaotic traffic like a local and allows you to explore hidden alleys and neighborhoods far beyond the tourist trail, including a ride across the historic Long Bien Bridge.

Nature Lovers: Escape the city’s bustle with a visit to the Botanical Gardens (Vườn Bách Thảo) near the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum complex. It’s a peaceful and shady spot for a quiet walk. For a larger green space, take a taxi to West Lake (Hồ Tây), Hanoi’s largest lake, and rent a bicycle to cycle around its perimeter, stopping at temples and cafes along the way.

Staying in or around the Old Quarter is the best choice for a short trip to Hanoi. This puts you right in the heart of the action, with countless restaurants, cafes, shops, and historical sights within easy walking distance. The area around Hoan Kiem Lake offers a slightly more relaxed atmosphere while still being incredibly central. For a more upscale and quieter experience, the French Quarter, with its grand colonial buildings and wide, tree-lined boulevards, is also an excellent option.

Luxury: Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi. An iconic, historic luxury hotel that has welcomed guests since 1901. Located in the French Quarter, it offers timeless elegance, impeccable service, multiple world-class restaurants, and a famous bamboo bar, all steeped in colonial-era charm. Mid-Range: La Siesta Classic Ma May. Part of a highly-regarded boutique hotel chain, this hotel offers stylish rooms, exceptional customer service, a fantastic spa, and a prime location in the heart of the Old Quarter, providing incredible value for its quality. Budget: Hanoi Buffalo Hostel. A popular and social hostel located in the Old Quarter. It’s known for its lively atmosphere, rooftop bar, swimming pool, and the inclusion of free beer during happy hour, making it a top choice for budget travelers looking to meet people.

The single most important skill to learn on your first day in Hanoi is how to cross the street. The traffic, a seemingly chaotic swarm of motorbikes, can be intimidating. The key is to walk slowly and confidently at a steady pace. Do not stop, run, or make sudden movements. The drivers are experts at anticipating your path and will simply flow around you. Make eye contact and trust the process; it’s an essential part of the Hanoi experience.

When eating street food, choose vendors that are busy with local customers; this is usually a sign of good food and high turnover. Use ride-hailing apps like Grab for getting around; Grab Bike (a motorbike taxi) is a cheap and exhilarating way to travel short distances, while Grab Car is a reliable and affordable taxi option. Always have cash in small denominations (Vietnamese Dong – VND) ready for street food, small purchases, and cyclo rides.

For a day of exploring Hanoi’s temples and streets, wear lightweight, breathable, and comfortable clothing. Natural fabrics like cotton and linen are ideal for the hot and humid climate. When visiting the Temple of Literature or any other religious site, it is important to dress modestly. This means covering your shoulders and knees. A light pashmina or scarf is a versatile item for women to carry to easily cover up when needed.

Comfortable walking shoes are absolutely essential. You will be on your feet for most of the day, navigating crowded sidewalks and uneven pavement. Sneakers or comfortable walking sandals are the best choice. A sunhat, sunglasses, and sunscreen are also recommended for protection against the sun. In the rainy season (May-October), a compact umbrella or a light rain poncho is a must for the common afternoon downpours.

Hanoi is a food lover’s dream, and today is about diving right in. You must try the two most iconic Hanoi dishes. For *phở* (noodle soup), **Phở Thìn** or **Phở Bát Đàn** are legendary spots. For *bún chả* (grilled pork with noodles), head to **Bún Chả Hương Liên**, made world-famous after President Obama and Anthony Bourdain dined there. The Old Quarter is also the best place to find excellent *bánh mì* (Vietnamese baguette sandwich) from street vendors.

Your culinary adventure should end with a unique Hanoi specialty: egg coffee (*cà phê trứng*). This is a rich, creamy concoction of coffee, egg yolk, and condensed milk, tasting like a tiramisu in a cup. The original and most famous place to try it is **Giảng Café**, a hidden gem tucked away in a small alley in the Old Quarter. For a different taste, try the fried-dough sticks (*quẩy*) at a local stall, perfect for dipping in your noodle soup.

The best way to explore the core of Hanoi, including the Old Quarter and the area around Hoan Kiem Lake, is on foot. This allows you to soak in the atmosphere, peek into hidden alleys, and discover things you would miss from a vehicle. The main historical sites are relatively close to each other.

For slightly longer distances, such as getting from the Old Quarter to the Temple of Literature, a ride-hailing service like Grab is the most convenient and affordable option. You can book either a Grab Car (car taxi) or a Grab Bike (motorbike taxi) through the app. A cyclo (pedicab) is another, more traditional option for a slow-paced tour of the Old Quarter, but be sure to agree on the price for the ride duration beforehand.

Your day will begin with an early morning pickup from your Hanoi hotel for the transfer to Ha Long Bay. Most cruise packages include a comfortable shuttle bus or private car for this journey, which takes approximately 2.5-3 hours on the new expressway. Upon arrival at the Tuan Chau Marina, you will board your cruise boat. After a welcome drink and safety briefing, you’ll enjoy a delicious seafood lunch while the boat begins its journey into the bay.

The afternoon’s activities will vary depending on your chosen cruise, but they typically include an excursion to a floating village or a pearl farm. The main highlight is usually a kayaking or bamboo boat trip around a stunning area like the Luon Cave lagoon, allowing you to get up close to the limestone karsts. There will also be an opportunity for swimming at a secluded spot like Titop Island, which you can also climb for a fantastic panoramic view of the bay. In the late afternoon, you’ll return to the boat for a sunset party or a Vietnamese cooking demonstration on the sundeck before enjoying dinner on board.

Young Travelers: Look for cruises that offer a more active itinerary with plenty of kayaking, swimming, and sometimes even cliff jumping. “Party cruises” are also available for those looking for a more social and lively atmosphere with other young travelers.

Seniors: Choose a luxury or mid-range cruise with a more relaxed pace. Ensure the boat has comfortable amenities and easy access to the main decks. A bamboo boat rowed by a local is a fantastic, low-exertion alternative to kayaking. You can enjoy the stunning scenery from the comfort of the sundeck without participating in the more strenuous activities.

Families: Many cruises are very family-friendly, offering connecting cabins and activities that appeal to all ages. Kayaking together and swimming is great fun. The novelty of sleeping on a boat is usually a huge hit with children. Some cruises also offer movie nights or squid fishing in the evening.

Travelers with Disabilities: Ha Long Bay presents challenges. Boarding the boats often involves navigating steps. It is crucial to contact cruise companies directly to inquire about accessibility. Some luxury cruises may have more accessible cabins and facilities on the main deck, but activities like kayaking or visiting caves will likely be inaccessible. A day cruise without the overnight stay may be a more manageable option.

Luxury Travel: Opt for a 5-star luxury cruise line like Paradise Cruises or Orchid Cruises. These boats offer opulent suites with private balconies, fine dining menus, onboard spas, and impeccable service. A luxury cruise provides a truly serene and pampered way to experience the bay’s beauty, often taking a less-crowded route through the neighboring Lan Ha Bay.

Adventure Travel: Choose a cruise that ventures into the less-touristed areas of Bai Tu Long Bay or Lan Ha Bay. Look for itineraries that include more extensive kayaking, trekking on Cat Ba Island, or even rock climbing opportunities with specialized adventure tour operators.

Nature Lovers: Select a cruise with an eco-conscious focus that emphasizes the geology and biodiversity of the bay. These cruises often have knowledgeable guides who can point out local flora and fauna and may visit more pristine, protected areas of the bay for kayaking, away from the main tourist routes.

Your accommodation for tonight will be your cabin on the overnight cruise ship in Ha Long Bay. When booking your 2-day/1-night tour, you are essentially booking a floating hotel. The quality of the cruise ships varies enormously, from basic budget boats to ultra-luxurious vessels. It is highly recommended to book a mid-range or luxury cruise for better safety standards, hygiene, food quality, and overall experience. Most tour packages are all-inclusive, covering transport, meals, and activities.

Luxury Cruise: Paradise Elegance Cruise Halong. A classic and highly-regarded luxury cruise offering elegant cabins with private balconies, a sophisticated restaurant and bar, a spa, and a well-paced itinerary. The service is exceptional, ensuring a memorable and comfortable journey. Mid-Range Cruise: Aspira Cruises. A modern and stylish cruise that often sails in the less-crowded Lan Ha Bay. It offers spacious cabins, a swimming pool on deck, and a great itinerary that balances relaxation and activities. It represents excellent value for money. Budget Cruise: While there are many budget options, it’s crucial to read recent reviews carefully regarding safety and cleanliness. **Go Asia Travel** is a reputable local agency that can help book reliable budget and mid-range options that are not always listed on major booking sites.

Booking your Ha Long Bay cruise in advance is essential, especially during peak season. Do thorough research and read recent reviews to choose a reputable cruise line that matches your budget and style. Be wary of “too good to be true” cheap deals offered by street-side agencies in Hanoi, as these can lead to disappointment. Booking through a trusted online platform or a well-regarded local travel agency is the safest bet.

Pack a small overnight bag for the cruise and leave your main luggage securely at your Hanoi hotel (most hotels offer this service for free). Essentials for your overnight bag include swimwear, sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, a change of clothes for the evening, a light jacket as it can get cool on the water at night, and any personal medications. A waterproof bag for your phone and camera during kayaking is also a very good idea.

For the journey from Hanoi and for relaxing on the boat, wear light and comfortable clothing. Shorts, a t-shirt, and comfortable sandals or flip-flops are perfect. You will spend a lot of time outdoors, so sun protection is key. A wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and high-SPF sunscreen are absolutely necessary.

Bring your swimwear for swimming and kayaking. A quick-dry towel can also be useful. For the evening dinner on the boat, the dress code is casual, but some people like to change into something slightly nicer, like a summer dress or a clean shirt and trousers. A light sweater or jacket is highly recommended for the evenings and early mornings on the deck, as it can be surprisingly cool and breezy on the water, even after a hot day.

All your meals for today and tomorrow morning are included in your cruise package and will be served on board the boat. Lunch and dinner are typically multi-course affairs, with a strong focus on fresh, local seafood, which is a highlight of the region. You can expect dishes like grilled fish, steamed prawns, squid, and a variety of Vietnamese salads and stir-fries.

Most cruises can cater to dietary restrictions, such as vegetarian or gluten-free, but it is essential to inform them of your needs at the time of booking. Drinks are usually not included in the package price and can be expensive on board. Some cruises may allow you to bring your own non-alcoholic drinks, but it’s best to check their policy beforehand. The quality of the food is often a key differentiator between budget and more premium cruise lines.

Virtually all 2-day/1-night Ha Long Bay cruise packages include round-trip transportation from your hotel in the Hanoi Old Quarter. This is the most convenient and standard way to do the trip. The transport is usually a modern, air-conditioned shuttle bus or limousine van, which is more comfortable and has fewer seats.

The journey to the Tuan Chau Marina (the main departure point for most Ha Long cruises) takes about 2.5 to 3 hours thanks to the new Hanoi – Hai Phong Expressway. The shuttle will pick you up from your hotel between 8:00 and 8:30 am and you will arrive at the marina around noon, just in time to board your boat for lunch. The logistics are handled entirely by the cruise company, making it a very seamless and stress-free experience.

Your day starts early on the cruise boat. Many cruises offer an optional Tai Chi session on the sundeck around 6:30 am, which is a wonderful way to start the day as the sun rises over the bay. A light breakfast is served before you embark on the morning’s main excursion. This is typically a visit to one of the spectacular limestone caves in the area, such as Sung Sot (Surprise) Cave or Thien Cung (Heavenly Palace) Cave. You’ll be guided through the vast, beautifully illuminated chambers to admire the incredible natural formations.

After the cave visit, you’ll return to the boat to check out of your cabin and enjoy a full brunch while the cruise makes its final journey through the bay, returning to the Tuan Chau Marina around noon. From there, you will board your shuttle bus or private car for the 2.5 to 3-hour drive back to Hanoi. You can expect to arrive at your hotel in the Old Quarter between 3:30 and 4:30 pm. For the evening, consider booking tickets for the Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre near Hoan Kiem Lake, a unique and entertaining traditional art form that is a perfect post-dinner activity.

Young Travelers: Once back in Hanoi, you’ll have a final evening to enjoy the city’s nightlife. After the water puppet show, head back to Ta Hien “Beer Corner” for one last night of bia hoi, or explore the more sophisticated cocktail bars in the French Quarter.

Seniors: The morning Tai Chi session is a perfect, gentle activity. The walk through the caves involves many stairs and can be slippery; it’s fine to skip this and relax on the boat instead. Back in Hanoi, a relaxing dinner followed by the seated water puppet show makes for a very comfortable and culturally rich evening.

Families: Kids will be amazed by the scale and fantasy-like shapes inside the caves. The water puppet show in the evening is a classic family activity in Hanoi and is very entertaining for children, with its colorful puppets, live traditional music, and folkloric stories.

Travelers with Disabilities: The caves in Ha Long Bay are not wheelchair accessible due to the large number of stairs. The best option is to enjoy the scenery from the boat during the morning cruise. The Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre in Hanoi has accessible seating, but it’s important to book in advance and specify your needs.

Luxury Travel: Your luxury cruise will offer a gourmet brunch and seamless, comfortable transfer back to Hanoi. In the evening, treat yourself to a final fine-dining experience. For a cultural touch, book premium seats for the water puppet show and perhaps arrange a private backstage meeting with the performers.

Adventure Travel: If your cruise visited Titop Island on Day 2, use this morning for a final, brisk climb to the summit for spectacular sunrise views before the cave visit. Back in Hanoi, instead of the puppet show, seek out a live music venue showcasing traditional Vietnamese music or contemporary local bands.

Nature Lovers: The cave exploration is a highlight, offering a look at the unique geology of the karst landscape. During the cruise back to the harbor, spend your time on the sundeck looking for sea eagles and other birdlife. Back in Hanoi, a final evening stroll around Hoan Kiem Lake offers a peaceful urban nature experience.

You will return to Hanoi for your final night, so it’s most convenient to book the same hotel where you stayed on your first night. This makes storing your main luggage a simple and secure process. Returning to a familiar hotel and neighborhood provides a sense of comfort after your two-day excursion and allows you to easily enjoy your last evening in the city without the stress of navigating a new area. The Old Quarter or French Quarter remain the top recommendations for their central location and atmosphere.

Luxury: Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi. Returning to the historic charm and luxurious comfort of the Metropole would be the perfect way to cap off your Ha Long Bay adventure. Enjoy a cocktail at its famous bar and relax by the pool. Mid-Range: La Siesta Classic Ma May. The exceptional service at La Siesta will feel like coming home. Their staff are renowned for their hospitality, and the comfortable rooms and excellent location make it a perfect base for your final night. Budget: Hanoi Buffalo Hostel. Head back to the social hub of Hanoi Buffalo Hostel. It’s the perfect place to share stories of your Ha Long Bay trip with fellow travelers over a free beer before heading out for a final night on the town.

On your final morning on the cruise, you will need to pack your overnight bag and check out of your cabin before the brunch is served. Staff will store your bag for you while you have your meal and enjoy the remainder of the cruise. Tipping is not mandatory but is greatly appreciated by the cruise staff for good service. It’s common to leave a tip in a designated box at the reception desk upon disembarking.

Upon your return to Hanoi, you will likely be tired from the travel. Plan for a relatively relaxed evening. The water puppet show is a great option as it’s entertaining yet doesn’t require a lot of energy. Book your tickets online in advance or ask your hotel to book them for you to get good seats, as shows can sell out, especially in the evening.

For your morning in Ha Long Bay, casual and comfortable clothes are best. If you are visiting a cave, wear sturdy, non-slip shoes as the steps inside can be wet and slippery. You will be traveling back to Hanoi in the afternoon, so wear something that will be comfortable for the 3-hour bus journey.

For your evening back in Hanoi, you can change into a fresh set of clothes. The dress code for the water puppet theatre is casual. If you plan to go for a nice dinner afterwards, you might want to change into something smart-casual, like trousers and a nice shirt or a dress. As always, having a light jacket or cardigan is useful for air-conditioned indoor spaces.

Your breakfast and brunch are included in your Ha Long Bay cruise. Once you return to Hanoi, you will be on your own for dinner. This is your last chance to eat any of your favorite Hanoi dishes that you may be craving again, or to try something new. For a special farewell dinner, consider **Highway4**, a restaurant that specializes in modern Vietnamese cuisine and is famous for its variety of traditional herbal liquors.

For a more casual but equally delicious experience, explore the area around St. Joseph’s Cathedral, which is full of great eateries and trendy cafes. **Nha Hang Ngon** is a popular choice, offering a huge menu of Vietnamese street food from different regions, all served in a beautiful colonial villa setting. It’s a great place to sample a wide variety of dishes in one place.

All transportation for the day is typically arranged as part of your Ha Long Bay tour package. You will travel from the bay back to Hanoi in the same shuttle bus or private car that brought you there. The tour operator will drop you off directly at your hotel in the Hanoi Old Quarter.

Once you are back in Hanoi, the city is your oyster. For the evening’s activities, such as getting to the water puppet theatre and a restaurant, walking is often the easiest option if you are staying centrally. For longer distances, Grab is the most reliable and convenient form of transport.

Start your morning with a visit to the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum Complex in Ba Dinh Square. Note that the mausoleum itself, where Ho Chi Minh’s embalmed body is on display, has very specific opening hours (typically 8 am-11 am, closed on Mondays and Fridays) and often has long queues. Visitors are expected to be silent and respectful. Afterwards, explore the rest of the complex, which includes the beautiful French colonial Presidential Palace (viewed from the outside), and Ho Chi Minh’s simple stilt house and fish pond, which offer a lovely insight into his modest lifestyle. Don’t miss the One Pillar Pagoda, a unique and historic Buddhist temple built in the 11th century.

After the complex, you can visit the nearby Vietnam Military History Museum for those interested in the country’s wartime past. Spend your last afternoon doing some souvenir shopping in the Old Quarter or at a high-quality craft store like Craft Link or Tan My Design. Before heading to the airport, find a nice cafe, perhaps overlooking Hoan Kiem Lake, to enjoy a final egg coffee or iced coffee with condensed milk, and reflect on your whirlwind trip through Northern Vietnam.

Young Travelers: For a different perspective on history, visit the Hoa Lo Prison Relic (“Hanoi Hilton”). It provides a somber but fascinating look at Vietnam’s revolutionary struggle against the French and the Vietnam War. This will be a more engaging historical site for many than the mausoleum.

Seniors: The Mausoleum complex involves a lot of walking in an open, unshaded square. Be prepared for this, or consider focusing only on the less crowded areas like the stilt house. A final, relaxing afternoon enjoying the air-conditioned comfort of a nice cafe or a high-end shopping mall like the Trang Tien Plaza is a great option.

Families: The vast open space of Ba Dinh Square is good for kids to walk around. The stilt house and fish pond are usually interesting for children. For a final family activity, a visit to the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology (a short taxi ride away) is highly recommended. It has excellent indoor exhibits and a fantastic outdoor area with full-scale replicas of traditional houses from different ethnic groups.

Travelers with Disabilities: The grounds of the Ho Chi Minh complex are flat and accessible, but distances are long. The interior of the mausoleum is accessible. The stilt house has stairs and is not accessible. The Museum of Ethnology is fully accessible and a fantastic alternative for a final cultural immersion.

Luxury Travel: Hire a private guide specializing in modern Vietnamese history to provide nuanced commentary during your visit to the Ho Chi Minh complex. Do your last-minute shopping at high-end silk boutiques and art galleries in the French Quarter. Arrange for a premium airport transfer service with a lounge pass for a comfortable and seamless departure.

Adventure Travel: Forgo the main sights and spend your last day exploring a different neighborhood. Take a Grab to the Tay Ho (West Lake) district. Rent a bicycle and cycle around the large lake, exploring the various temples, cafes, and discovering a more modern, expat-influenced side of Hanoi.

Nature Lovers: If you haven’t already, a visit to the Hanoi Botanical Gardens near the mausoleum complex is a peaceful way to spend your final morning. It’s a quiet and shady park that offers a final moment of tranquility before the journey home.

For your departure day, having a hotel with a straightforward airport transfer process is a huge advantage. Most hotels in the Old Quarter or French Quarter can arrange reliable airport taxis. Many hotels also offer late check-out for an additional fee, or will happily store your luggage for the day while you do your final sightseeing. This allows you to make the most of your last day without worrying about your bags.

Luxury: Apricot Hotel. A luxurious neo-classical hotel with stunning views over Hoan Kiem Lake. Its rooftop pool and bar are a perfect spot to relax before your flight. The hotel is steeped in art and offers a sophisticated and convenient base for your final day. Mid-Range: Hanoi Pearl Hotel. Known for its fantastic location just steps from the lake and its excellent customer service, this hotel provides great comfort and convenience. The staff are adept at arranging seamless airport transfers and taking care of luggage. Budget: Little Hanoi Hostel. A well-regarded budget option offering clean private rooms and dorms. It’s known for its friendly staff who are very helpful in arranging airport transfers and providing travel advice for your departure day.

The Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum has a very strict dress code and rules of conduct. Shoulders and knees must be covered for both men and women. You must walk in two silent lines, and you are not allowed to talk, put your hands in your pockets, or take photos inside. The mausoleum is also closed annually for maintenance (usually around October/November), so check in advance if it will be open.

When shopping for souvenirs in the Old Quarter, bargaining is common, but always do it with a smile. For items like coffee or packaged foods, it’s often better to buy from a fixed-price store or a supermarket to ensure quality. Plan your journey to Noi Bai International Airport (HAN) carefully. Allow at least 45-60 minutes for the taxi ride, and more during peak traffic hours. A pre-arranged car from your hotel or using the Grab app is the most reliable way to get there.

A modest dress code is essential for visiting the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum complex. Both men and women must wear trousers or skirts that cover the knees, and shirts that cover the shoulders. Short shorts, tank tops, and revealing clothing will result in you being denied entry. The guards are very strict about this. Lightweight, long trousers and a short-sleeved shirt are a perfect choice.

Wear comfortable shoes as the complex is large and requires a lot of walking. Since you will likely be heading to the airport later in the day, wear something that will also be comfortable for your flight. Layers are always a good idea, as you can add a sweater or jacket for the cool, air-conditioned airport and plane.

For your final meal in Hanoi, you could enjoy a classic Vietnamese lunch near the mausoleum complex. **Bún bò Nam Bộ Bách Phương** is a famous, casual eatery that specializes in one dish: southern-style beef noodle salad, which is delicious and refreshing. For your last coffee, **Cộng Cà Phê** is a popular chain of stylish, themed cafes that serve excellent coconut coffee, a must-try modern Vietnamese creation. There is a branch near the mausoleum and another in the Old Quarter.

If you have time for a more substantial final meal, return to the Old Quarter for one last bowl of your favorite noodles or to try a dish you missed. A final, leisurely meal at a restaurant with a balcony overlooking the bustling streets can be a wonderful way to say goodbye to the city. Alternatively, grab a delicious *bánh mì* to take with you to the airport.

The Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum Complex is located in the Ba Dinh district, west of the Old Quarter. The easiest way to get there is by taking a Grab or taxi, which is a short, 10-15 minute ride.

To get to Noi Bai International Airport (HAN), the most convenient option is a pre-booked car from your hotel or using a ride-hailing app like Grab. The journey takes approximately 45-60 minutes. For a budget option, there are dedicated airport buses, such as the Express Bus 86, which departs from near the Hanoi Opera House and makes several stops, offering a cheap and reliable service.

Vietnam’s wellness scene is flourishing, with world-class retreats located in serene settings. While the most famous are in coastal areas like Da Nang and Phu Quoc, you can find excellent yoga studios in Hanoi’s Tay Ho (West Lake) district, popular with expats and locals. For a true retreat experience near Hanoi, some resorts in the surrounding countryside, such as in Mai Chau or near Ninh Binh, offer yoga and meditation programs combined with nature activities, providing a peaceful escape from the city’s hustle.

Packing for Northern Vietnam requires preparing for a range of conditions.

• Lightweight, breathable clothing: Cotton and linen are perfect for Hanoi’s humidity.
• Modest attire: Pack clothes that cover shoulders and knees for visiting temples and the mausoleum.
• A light waterproof jacket: Essential for sudden downpours, especially during the monsoon season (May-Oct).
• A warm layer: A sweater or fleece is necessary for cool evenings on the Ha Long Bay cruise and for Hanoi’s cooler winter months (Dec-Feb).
• Comfortable walking shoes: Non-negotiable for exploring the Old Quarter.
• Power Adapter: Vietnam primarily uses plug types A (two flat pins) and C (two round pins).

Hanoi’s Old Quarter is a shopper’s delight. Hang Gai Street is famous for its high-quality silk products, from scarves to custom-tailored clothing. Hang Bac Street is known for its silver jewelry. For beautiful traditional crafts, visit a fair-trade shop like Craft Link or Tan My Design. Excellent souvenirs include lacquerware, embroidered textiles, and, of course, Vietnamese coffee, which you can buy at specialty shops like Trung Nguyên or Highlands Coffee.

Visa requirements vary by nationality. Many countries are eligible for a 15-day visa exemption. For longer stays or for nationalities not on the exemption list, you can apply for an e-visa online in advance. Always check the official government immigration website for the most current requirements for your passport.

The currency is the Vietnamese Dong (VND). It is a closed currency, meaning you can’t get it outside of Vietnam. The notes are large in denomination, so it can be confusing at first. US dollars are sometimes accepted in tourist areas, but it’s always best to pay in VND. ATMs are widespread in cities.

Vietnam is a very safe country for tourists. Violent crime against foreigners is rare. The main things to be aware of are petty theft (like phone snatching from motorbikes) in big cities and minor scams. Be vigilant with your belongings and use common sense.

To cross the street, the key is to be predictable. Walk slowly and at a consistent pace. Make eye contact with drivers. Do not make sudden stops or movements. The motorbike drivers are experts at flowing around pedestrians who move predictably.

In cities, walking is great for short distances. For longer trips, the ride-hailing app Grab (for both cars and motorbikes) is the best, most convenient, and most affordable option. For travel between cities, a combination of flights, trains, and tourist buses is used.

Yes, the street food is a highlight and generally safe. The key is to choose vendors that are busy and popular with locals. Look for places where the food is cooked fresh to order in front of you. If you have a sensitive stomach, you may want to start slowly.

In the tourism sector (hotels, tour companies, major restaurants) in big cities, English is widely spoken. Among the general public, especially older people or in rural areas, English proficiency is low. Learning a few basic Vietnamese phrases like “Xin chào” (hello) and “Cảm ơn” (thank you) is greatly appreciated.

Tipping is not expected in Vietnam, but it is appreciated. It’s not customary to tip for street food or in small local restaurants. In more upscale restaurants or for tour guides and private drivers, a small tip for good service is a nice gesture.

A cyclo is a three-wheeled bicycle taxi, with the driver at the back and a seat for one or two passengers at the front. It’s a slow, traditional way to see a city’s sights. It’s now mainly a tourist activity. Always agree on the price and duration of the ride before you get in.

It is highly recommended to book in advance online through a reputable platform or via a trusted travel agency in Hanoi. Avoid the very cheap deals offered on the street. Research different cruise lines to find one that fits your budget and style, and read recent reviews carefully.