3 cities, Vietnam Travel Guide, Recommendations

This guide roughly covers everything I did during my solo trip in Hanoi in October 2023. Anything I wouldn't recommend would be omitted from here. I hope it helps you plan your trip!

Accommodation

During the middle of my stay in Hanoi I did a one-night cruise, so I decided to just book the same hotel for before and after the cruise, and asked the hotel to hold my larger luggage for the night that I was on the cruise. They were happy to do so, and it sounded like a common thing that people did.

Sights and Attractions

Hanoi is home to lots of attractions that are within walking distance of the Old Quarter or just a short Grab ride away. Everything is fairly affordable so you can see it all without hurting your wallet!

Hoàn Kiếm Lake

A serene spot in the city, providing a peaceful escape with beautiful scenery. Great for people-watching as it's a local favourite.

Ngoc Son Temple

Đồng Xuân Market

A bustling wholesale market with a diverse range of goods.

Temple Of Literature

A historical site dedicated to Confucius and home to Vietnam's first university.

Imperial Citadel of Thang Long

An important historical site, though much of its original structure is gone.

Hoa Lo Prison

A prison originally built by the French in Indochina for political prisoners and an important historical museum. Also known as the 'Hanoi Hilton' as it was used for US prisoners of war during the Vietnam War.

Vietnamese Women's Museum

Showcases the roles and contributions of Vietnamese women.

Food and Drink

There is so much delicious food to try you'll be overwhelmed. I'd highly recommend tacking on a street food tour to your trip help you out in this department.

Cafe Dinh

Famous for serving traditional egg coffee.

Cong Cafe

Known for its signature coconut coffee and unique communist-era theme.

Banh Mi 25

A renowned place for delicious Vietnamese sandwiches.

Pho 10 Ly Quoc Su

Hanoi Street Food Tour

Highly recommend a street food tour as you'll try things you wouldn't have tried by yourself! I had a great experience with https://www.hanoistreetfoodtour.com/

Ha Long Bay Cruise

A Ha Long Bay cruise is a great excursion to take from Hanoi. I booked a 2-day-1-night cruise with Indochina Junk, which is a bit more costly than other companies but worth it for the guaranteed quality - I had an incredible experience with them. They will pick you up from your hotel as well as drop you back off. The ship I was on took a route to Bai Tu Long Bay, which is near Ha Long Bay but a bit quieter. https://www.indochina-junk.com/