The ultimate plan for what to do in one day in Ho Chi Minh city, Hanoi, Hoi An 2020

As one of the most popular East Asia destinations, Vietnam is a wonderful country for your customized tour. Today, we will showcase all of you 3 best cities for what to do in one day in Ho Chi Mnh city, Hanoi, Hoi An. Here is our ultimate  plan that you wish you have known:

One day in Ho Chi Minh city

(Tan Dinh church-source from @miluchiu0806)

Ho Chi Minh city is a dynamic city with many awesome spots and alleyways to explore such as Ben Thanh Market, Notre Dame Cathedral, City Hall, and the Post Office. if you have limited time, do not worry, the following itinerary will help you experience the best of what Saigon has to offer in just one day.

Having breakfast like a local

(Nam Vang noodle soup-source from @subeo2604)

Not too early enough-7 am should be fine. This is an ideal time to explore the best of Ho Chi Minh city in one day. You will see that locals flock to sidewalk vendors to have their meal. With such a diverse cuisine, hundreds of choices are available for you to treat your hungry stomach such as  pho, hu tieu, bun bo, banh canh, com tam, banh mi, and bo kho. The food prices in Saigon are also quite reasonable, ranging from 20,000 VND(1 USD)

👉👉👉For those who love a briefly Sai Gon itinerary The top things to do in Ho Chi Minh city 2019 ❤️❤️❤️

Trying Vietnamese Coffee

(Vietnamese coffee-source from @filipinaexpat)

Vietnamese  people usually drink coffee at any time of the day, but a great way to start the day is by sipping a cup of coffee in the morning. Though Trung Nguyen Legend seems to be the most well-known names, sidewalk cafes will bring travelers a more interesting experience. People will sit in old plastic table sets, reading newspapers, or simply watch the passing vehicles while sipping a cup of street style coffee. That is the best memory for every single foreign visitors.

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Exploring Ho Chi Minh city one-day itineraries

(Notre Dame Cathedral-source from @17_08u)

Just one or two hours, visitors will explore the main tourist destinations in the city’s center, such as Notre Dame Cathedral, the Old Post Office, Reunification Palace, the City Hall, and the Opera House. Hugely influenced by the French-style architecture, these old buildings have for a long time enchanted numerous wanderers who are enamored with the timeworn beauties.

For instance, Tao Dan Bird Park is a good place to go, where bird lovers occasionally bring their beautiful songbirds to sing with each other, creating a noisy but somehow relaxing atmosphere. One of the must-visit destinations in Ho Chi Minh city ,opening on Sunday mornings, is in Binh Thanh District. This special fair has catered to clientele who want to get their hands on old secondhand items from decades past.

👉👉👉The highlights of Sai Gon street food Top 4 best food stalls in the iconic Sai Gon food tour ❤️❤️❤️

Acquiring More Knowledge About the City’s History

(War Remnants Museum-source from @miloukoch)

Under the heat of Saigon, museums turn out to be a reasonable stop to take a short break. With its historical significance, Saigon is like an epic novel of the country’s history.

There are many historical museums around the city’s center and each specializes in one particular theme. For example, the War Museum on Vo Van Tan Street showcases the country’s painful memories during the Vietnam War, and the Ho Chi Minh Museum at Nha Rong Harbor preserves the belongings of Uncle Ho – the most influential symbol throughout national history. Meanwhile, the Art Museum on Pho Duc Chinh Street houses plenty of important artifacts.

However, you should be aware that some museums close during lunchtime, which is from 11:30 am to 1:00 pm. So, remember to check the time before go.

👉👉👉As you can see, the street food scene in Sai Gon is every single district and everywhere. Everyday, thousands of open-air restaurants and food stalls serve up delicious, cheap food on the city’s side walk. Here is Sai Gon food culture

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Time for shopping

(Sai Gon centre-source from @caapoulsen)

Among numerous boutiques situated along famous shopping streets, do not miss out on Libé Workshop on Ly Tu Trong Street and L’uisine on Le Loi Street. These two fashion brands hold a solid position among domestic fashion brands. Also, around the central area, there are several shopping malls selling global and branded products where you can find the trendiest clothes and accessories. These locations can be reached within minutes by different means of transportation or on foot.

On the other hand, the Saigon shopping scene is not all about the fancy fashion boutiques and glamorous shopping malls but is also about the bustling traditional markets. Not only do Saigon Square, Ben Thanh Market, Tan Dinh Market hold important cultural meaning, but the goods available here are also much more authentic and cheap if you have good bargaining skills.

👉👉👉The best luxury hotels & resorts in Ho Chi Minh ❤️❤️❤️

Do not miss out the street-food

(Bui Vien walking street-source from @trigales)

The street food culture is one of the main reason for most foreign tourists. As a custom, after a hectic day at work, colleagues, friends, and families tend to gather at their favorite dining spots.

Bui Vien Street, or the backpacker’s street, is livelier than any other area in Saigon. Tourists choose a roadside seat, order a cold drink or a snack, and start gossiping with their friends all night long. Some popular dishes here are fried squid, grilled octopus, boiled quail eggs, and smoothies.

In addition, it would be hugely remiss not to mention District 4. Usually known as a paradise for food enthusiasts, the district is famous for its alleyways where you can find the tastiest common dishes like pho and com tam, and also the weirdest but delicious dishes like oc (sea snails) and mi hen (clam noodles).

Admiring the lively night

(bitexco tower-source from @vechnoeletotv)

When the sun goes down and millions of colorful lights are lit around roads and buildings, the city turns into a stunning, charming place that enchants every curious eye after only one quick glance. There is no better way to end your day in Saigon than by admiring the city from above.

Bitexco Financial Tower, one of the highest building in the city provides an ideal spot to view the city in its night lights. Standing on the Skydeck on the 49th floor of this famous building, you will be amazed by the city’s spectacular scenery. The Skydeck also has modern binoculars helping you to explore even the smallest corners of the city. Another highly recommended stop for sightseeing is from the soon-to-be-modern part of the metropolis, Thu Thiem Tunnel Park. Just opposite the river, Thu Thiem has been so popular among city dwellers and possesses a stunning view of Saigon at night.

Top 5 best bars in Ho Chi Minh city

1. Era coffee: 58C Trần Quốc Thảo, Phường 7, District 3, open all day, closes around 11pm weekdays, 12am weekends
2. Urban kitchen and bar: 18 Ngo Van Nam, 12pm – 12am
3. The Alley cocktail bar and kitchen: 63/1 Pasteur, District 1, 5pm – 12am M-W, 5pm – 1am Th-Sat, closed Sun,
4. The Gin House: 28/3A Tôn Thất Tùng, Phường Bến Thành, 5pm – 2am
5. Powers bar: 17/25 Lê Thánh Tôn, Bến Nghé, 5pm – closing varies, but often 3am+

Finding a nice place in Ho Chi Minh city

After a long journey, you want to have a nice place to take a rest and explore the lively city, just check in our best hotels in Ho Chi Minh city:

• Alagon D’Antique Hotel & Spa

(Alagon D’Antique Hotel & Spa-source from @loungovietnam111)

Clean value for money hotel with lots of perks thrown in like bf n massage n daily simple high tea. Good value for money except for suite. On ground floor which does not require key card and quite noisy cos of the pi pi pi pi pi from the roads. Shout out to joe for being friendly and helpful throughout e stay! Thank u!-said by a visitor on Trip Advisor

• The Reverie Saigon

(The Reverie Saigon-source from @naho_417)

Absolutely amazing hotel and service and beautiful little chocolates left in the room before we got back in the evening, thank you so much it was an amazing experience that I won’t ever forget-said by a visitor on Trip Advisor.

• Sheraton Saigon Hotel & Towers

(Sheraton Saigon Hotel & Towers-source from @sheratontowerssg)

if you are looking for a quality hotel this is it.friendly staff willing to help in any way ,rooms were beautifully clean .food was excellent, and close to the market about 10-15 minuite easy walk and shops outside the front door would highly recomend this hotel-said by a visitor on Trip Advisor

• Hotel Equatorial Saigon

(Hotel Equatorial Saigon-source from internet)

Have been stay in this hotel from it start, the service / maintain has been keep at highest level. Excellent dining restaurants with very nice staffs. Location is a little bit far away from center of city but taxi voucher is big help! Would like to stay when I next visit in Saigon!-said by a visitor on Trip Advisor.

• Sofitel Saigon Plaza Hotel

(Sofitel Saigon Plaza Hotel-source from @songyoung.kim)

Love this hotel, been there at least twice a year for last few years. Great service, view, wonderful staff. The Buffett in the morning and lunch is fabulous.
The club floor offer drinks and snacks late afternoon and the staffs are very attentive, Nguyen and rest always greet with a smile. Is our go to hotel in Vietnam.-said by a visitor on Trip Advisor.

One Day In Hoi An – What To Do

Exploring the breathtaking Hoi An sunrise

(Cua Dai beach-source from@linselusn)

In the morning, locals usually go to the beach at 5am for swimming or for exercising, it’s a pleasant way to understand local Vietnamese culture as you join the swimmers in the water reflecting the morning light. Besides the popular Cua Dai Beach – which has been depreciating for the past few years, An Bang Beach is on the rise. It is listed as one of the “top 50 most beautiful beaches in the world,” just five kilometers from the Old Town.

😊😊😊If  you are wondering where to eat and what the best food in Hoi An is, please allow us to showcase you a complete Hoi An food guide Explore the ancient town with the best food in Hoi An 2019 😉😉😉

Banh mi and coffee for breakfast

(Hoi An bread-source from @bennyontour)

“Banh Mi Phuong” at 2B Phan Chu Trinh Phuong or “Banh Mi Madame Khanh” at 135 Tran Cao Van Khanh is a good choice for feeding your morning growl. With only 20,000 VND you will have a delectable baguette full of meat, vegetables, and delicious sauces. To fulfill the morning meal, bring along your banh mi, get a street coffee, and find a random sidewalk cafe next to the Hoai River, listening to sampan engines roaring – the soundtrack of Vietnam.

Where to find banh mi in Hoi An

Banh mi Madame Khanh
Address: 135 Tran Cao Van Khanh, Son Phong Ward, Hoi An
Business hours: 6 AM – 10 PM
Price: 15,000 – 20,000 VND

Walk along Hai Ba Trung street from the beach to the town, and you will see many signs announcing: “mi Quang” (Quang regional noodles), “cao lau” (Hoi An special noodles), and “bun cari” (local curry noodles). Generally, every one of these stalls is good, and it is an authentic experience to eat at a place where locals do.

(Quang noodle soup-source from @vietnamesegod)

Where to try noodle

Mi Quang and cao lau
Address: Local food cart, T-junction of Hai Ba Trung st. and Ton Duc Thang st., to the right as you come from the beach.
Vendor hours: 5 AM – 10 AM
Price: 20,000 – 30,000 VND

Enjoy the day in the most leisurely way

(Hoi An-source from @ka0thy)

It is now time to experience and explore. There are many options that you can choose from while the sun is above, but 2-3 things will feel like enough. Choose from the assortment below and then pick a spot in my recommended list of dishes and restaurants for the perfect place for lunch and dinner.

Sight-seeing in the Ancient City

The best thing to do in Hoi An during daylight is wandering around the old town streets, going into some narrow corners and exploring the footprints of time in the old buildings.  There are many reasons why UNESCO have listed the old city as a World Heritage site. Traditional buildings reflect a fusion of indigenous and foreign cultures from past centuries. Interesting alleyways and charismatic street vendors provide a maze of memorable moments.

To learn about the life and culture of the locals of Hoi An, you should visit the old landmarks and buildings in the Ancient Town. These include but are not limited to the iconic Japanese Bridge, Sa Huynh Culture Museum, Ethnic Chinese Assembly Halls, and the old houses. However, to visit most of these places, you need to a buy ticket from the official ticket stalls scattered around the Old Town. The easiest ones to find are on Hai Ba Trung street (across Phan Chau Trinh street junction) and on the An Hoi Bridge. There are two types of tickets: one for 80,000 VND that allows you to visit three places and a 120,000 VND ticket for five places. Also, note that the ticket price proceedings are used to preserve the Ancient Town.

Here are the must-visit places that I recommend so you will get the most out of Hoi An with your ticket in hand:

Iconic Japanese Bridge

This beautiful little bridge has become a symbol of Hoi An. Constructed in the 1500s by the Japanese community of the time, the bridge retains much of its original design and ornamentation. Inside you’ll find a small temple to the God of Weather. Catch it by night for beautiful photo ops! The reflection of the bridge with the lights on the water is quite magical.

Pro tip: Late afternoon is one of the best times to get a picture of the iconic Japanese Wooden Bridge and the best angle to shoot it is from the footbridge.

Address: Nguyen Thi Minh Khai St, Cam Pho Ward, Hoi An.

Phung Hung Old House
Phung Hung Old House is over 230 years old and one of the most famous sites in Hoi An. This two-story building represents a combination of Vietnamese, Japanese, and Chinese architectural styles. Once a trading company for all sorts of exotic cargo, the house is now a workshop for commercial embroidery.

Address: 4 Nguyen Thi Minh Khai st, Cam Pho Ward, Hoi An.

Sa Huynh Culture Museum

This museum is for those of you who like some history! Sa Huynh Culture Museum gives insight into the people who dominated this region in the Bronze Age. The exhibits include jewelry, weapons and tools, and relics from funerary rituals, including dozens of huge burial jars. Museum staff can guide you around the museum and labeling to provide more information.

Address: 149 Tran Phu, Minh An Ward, Hoi An.

Museum of Trade Ceramics
Before Hoi An became a fishing town, it was a bustling center for trade. This two-story museum has over 400 exhibits revealing the pivotal role the city played in the pottery and ceramics industry. The building itself is quite beautiful, so get your camera ready!

Address: 80 Tran Phu, Minh An Ward, Hoi An.

Cantonese Assembly Hall
The Cantonese Assembly Hall, Quang Trieu, is large with elaborate, brightly colored sculptures, carvings, and painted scenes. Make sure you pass through to the garden at the back to see the stunning dragon statue. It’s a lovely place to sit and contemplate the meticulous attention to detail throughout the complex.

Address: 176 Tran Phu, Minh An Ward, Hoi An.

Quan Cong Temple
This small temple from the mid-1600s is dedicated to Guan Yu, an esteemed Chinese general in the Three Kingdoms period, who represents the lofty goals of loyalty, sincerity, integrity, and justice.

Address: 24 Tran Phu, Minh An Ward, Hoi An.

Hokkien Assembly Hall
This hall was founded in the late 1600s and served as the assembly hall for the largest Chinese ethnic group. It is Hoi An’s biggest assembly hall. Don’t rush through. The structure is well preserved and restored. Spend some time admiring the ornate and intricate decorations and architectural features.

Address: 46 Tran Phu, Minh An Ward, Hoi An.

Ngu Bang (Five guilds) Assembly Hall
This hall sits right next to the Hokkien site. It was built during the mid-1700s by Chinese immigrants and is dedicated to various deities and people including Thien Hau, Confucius, and, leader of the Chinese revolutionary movement in the 20th Century, Sun Yat-Sen. The Hall has had several uses over the years besides worship. It was a place to discuss business and it also served as a school so children with no clan or community could learn Chinese and keep in touch with their roots. This building is sometimes known as Duong Thuong or Trung Hoa Assembly Hall.

Address: 64 Tran Phu, Minh An Ward, Hoi An.

Duc An Old House
While the current house was built in 1850, the family has lived on this site for over 400 years. The house shows exhibits from its time as a successful bookshop, a Chinese herbalist, and the decorated revolutionary past of previous generations. Much of the house is roped off as private because the family still lives here.

Address: 129 Tran Phu, Minh An Ward, Hoi An.

Quan Thang Old House
Quan Thang is one of the most beautiful and best preserved old houses in Hoi An. As you wander through admiring the distinctive Chinese Hoa Ha decorations, architecture, and original furnishings you’ll get a feel of what life of the merchant class was like in bygone eras.

Address: 77 Tran Phu, Minh An Ward, Hoi An.

Tran Family House and Chapel
This 200-year-old house and chapel gives good insight into the Vietnamese aristocracy, ancestor worship, and clan culture of the Tran Family of Vietnam.

Address: 21 Le Loi, Minh An Ward, Hoi An.

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Exploring the local markets

(Hoi An market-source from @viajar.por.ai)

After exploring the old buildings of Hoi An and losing some calories, you can continue to work off lunch by exploring the city’s bustling shopping districts. Visitors can find anything from tailor-made clothing to jewelry. Art galleries, restaurants, and trinket shops are interspersed among the narrow streets.

At the center of all this activity is the Hoi An Central Market which provides more than just shopping; it’s an experience. With everything from local food to gorgeous, handcrafted souvenirs, the market has something for everyone— locals and tourists alike. If you’re looking for a more local experience, try Tan An market.

Hoi An Central Market
The market has row after row of fresh local products and handicrafts. There is also a huge street food section offering an extensive selection of all the local favorites at rock bottom prices. Cao lau, pho, banh xeo, sinh to (fruit smoothies), and lots more. Just approach a vendor that looks busy with the locals and you’ll try something delicious.

Address: Tran Quy Cap St, Minh An Ward, Hoi An.

Tan An Market
Tan An Market is another excellent choice if you want to buy fresh produce to cook for yourself. This market is much closer to Tra Que Village and the beach than Hoi An market, and the prices are somehow cheaper as well.

Address: Tran Quy Cap street, Minh An Ward, Hoi An.

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Tra Que – The Greenest Vegetable Village

(Tra Que village-source from @thejoifactory)

You can also have a look at Tra Que vegetable garden. Here you will see locals planting and harvesting various vegetables and herbs in vast green fields. Tra Que is located off the main road (Hai Ba Trung) from An Bang beach to the Ancient Town Center. The vegetables harvested here usually go into dishes produced by restaurants and stalls around town. What makes this place special is that there is are no chemicals used in growing the plants in order to guarantee the best quality of vegetables. With a short visit to Tra Que, visitors can see firsthand how the farmers grow vegetables in their own ways.

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Relaxing at a Spa

This town is also famous for its spas with traditional massages and herbal treatments. There are many spas, so it is difficult for first-timers to pick the right one.

I am happy to recommend White Rose Spa for a variety of spa therapies. All therapists are certified and have extensive knowledge of skin care, aromatherapy, and massage techniques. Your biggest challenge will be deciding which package you want.

White Rose Spa
Address: 529 Hai Ba Trung, Son Phong Ward, Hoi An.
Hours: 9:30 AM – 10:00 PM, last check in at 9:00 PM
Price range: 200,000 VND- 1,400,000 VND

👉👉👉For those who love the gorgeous resorts in the ancient town 15 of the best luxury hotels & resorts in Hoi An 

Strolling around the Ancient Town at night

It is not a mere coincidence that the Ancient Town of Hoi An was honored as one of the 20 best places to have the best nightlife on the planet. When night falls, this place seems to put on a very glamorous outfit with a mix of the old and new. Things have probably changed over time but there is still a rustic charm of this old town that will capture you and make you want to return time and time again. The Ancient Town is free of motorbikes until 9:00 pm, so take advantage of the town immediately after dinner for a relaxing stroll. Immerse yourself in this magical scene as more than a thousand beautiful lanterns light your way.

Start from down Bach Dang Street. Almost every canary yellow building within the premise is trimmed with a string of silk lanterns, which are turned on as the sun sets. Head onto An Hoi Bridge, admire the trail of floating lanterns cruising down the now-black waters of the Thu Bon River. Hawkers congregate at the footbridge selling these floating lanterns for 20,000 VND a pop and have devised a clever mechanism of lowering them down into the waters.

Do not miss street food!

(Shrimp cakes-source from @bea_auh)

Even if you are full after dinner, you should make space for the spectacular street food.  It is easy to find carts selling all kinds of food everywhere during the night for only 2,000 – 10,000 VND! Major streets, such as Tran Phu, Nguyen Thai Hoc, and Tran Cao Van, are undoubtedly street food paradises.

👉👉👉Read more: Here is our pick about 10 highlights food in this amazing city:Top 10 mouth watering best street food in Hoi An😉😉😉

Where to stay in Hoi An

Here is our recommendation about the best hotels and resorts in Hoi An:

Hoi An Silk Marina Resort & Spa

(Hoi An Silk Marina Resort & Spa-source from @eugeniesicard)

Great location, Great service & Food thanks to Qoung superviser & pool bar staff Trung & Tri & others, loved our stay here. Would definitely recommend & come back. Breakfast was amazing huge variety, happy hour beer & cocktails by the pool-said by a visitor on Trip Advisor

Hoi An Historic Hotel

(Hoi An Historic Hotel-source from @cochranmurray)

We had a room issue and it was sorted asap the next morning by Front Check-in Staff with efficiency and smiles and at no extra cost. Good pool, bar service and once again very good breakfast as we dined out downtown at the market area most of the time. We took advantage of making rice paper [a no cost option in the afternoon by the Hotel] and shown different ways it was cooked and sauces to dip the rice paper into-said by a visitor on Trip Advisor.

Palm Garden Resort & Spa

(Palm Garden Resort & Spa-source from @sofia.gonzalezs9)

We really enjoyed our 6 night stay in a beach front bungalow which was very clean with good air conditioning & comfortable beds. The staff at reception (under Chau’s supervision) were very professional & helpful. Buffet breakfast was fantastic & we enjoyed happy hour at the bar overlooking the beach. It was a perfect place to stay – very relaxing on lounges by the pool and the beach when not shopping or eating in Hoi An which is only a 10 minute drive away by hotel shuttle or taxi-said by a visitor on Trip Advisor.

Four Seasons The Nam Hai Resort

(Four Seasons The Nam Hai Resort-source from @camilacoelho)

This is our second visit and we absolutely love it , management and staff are fantastic , their family rooms are absolutely perfect for 2 adults and 2 children .
They even gave us the same room as before which was cool . We really liked all the water sports guys, especially Roosh . Breakfast is great , and getting around the propert with bicycles that the hotel provides is quick and fun-said by a visitor on Trip Advisor.

Sunrise Premium Resort Hoi An

We had a fantastic holiday at the Sunrise Resort. The staff are lovely we loved our room size it was great for a ten day break. The restaurants we could not fault and yes they where more busy some nights than other nights but we thought they handled it very well. We had no problems with the shuttle bus to town or the shuttle bus to the airport. Loved our cooking class and massages which where included in our package. The guy that welcomed us when we arrived was very informative and explained everything about the hotel we wanted to know. We will definitely look at another holiday with you here in Hoi An-said by a visitor on Trip Advisor.

Best Itinerary 1 day in Hanoi

Feeding your mind with Pho

(Pho Hanoi-source from @tuduong)

Pho – beef noodle is the most famous and popular dish in Hanoi. You just have pho for our breakfast that bring you enough energy to start a new day! In other parts of Vietnam, you can also find yourself pho but we promise that the original taste of Hanoi pho is much more better!

😎😎😎Read more: Means Of Transport To Travel From Ha Noi To Mai Chau

Spend Your Morning in Hanoi Old Quarter

(Ngoc Son temple-source from @mjaoki)

The Old Quarter shows you an iconic face of Hanoi. It features young and exciting Hanoi covered by an old and ancient Hanoi. Obviously, it is impossible for you to see all Hanoi offers. However, we suggest starting your days in the city center early to engage deeper in the local life.

Hoan Kiem Lake is a must-visit destination for tourists and locals in Hanoi. You can take the slow walk around the lake, watch locals doing their first daily activities. Some locals do exercise near the lake, others commune to work and prepare for the coming busy day.

In the centre of Hoan Kiem Lake, there is Pen Tower (Thap But) that you might take notice and question: what is it? It is one of my wonderful symbol that represent Vietnam!

Around the Hoan Kiem Lake, there are other fascinating spots such as Ngoc Son Temple and The Huc Bridge you should note to visit!

😎😎😎Are you looking for the best places to eat when visiting Vietnamese chaotic capital city? We will show you the best delicacies, what make Vietnam wonderful: Taste Bun Cha Obama in Hanoi food guide 2019

 Exploring the ancient Hanoi architecture-Hanoi Ancient House

(Hanoi Ancient House-source from @amz_m_25)

Hanoi Ancient House was a typical house of Hanoi in the past. It was built in 1010 in Ly dynasty and still maintained as a symbol of Vietnam architecture!

Visiting the biggest indoor market in Hanoi-Dong Xuan market

Local market for both locals and tourists to buy what you need during your stay in Hanoi!

The oldest bridge in Hanoi & a favorite spot for photography-Long Bien bridge

(Long Bien bridge-source from @snx_2k)

The best way to save your time is to save your time is being accompanies with a local travel buddy. You can check our Free Local Tour and get yourself ready to join an exciting tour with a Hanoi local!

Read more: 7 of the best luxury hotels & resorts in Ha Noi

Spend Your Afternoon In Hanoi French Quarter 

Hanoi French Quarter is another popular place to get into the local spirit of Hanoi. You definitely visit these destinations and enjoy the inspirational lifestyle here!

St. Joseph Cathedral – “Notre Dame de Paris” of Hanoi 

(St. Joseph Cathedral-source from @matthew_kt.lee)

A rush walk across St. Joseph Cathedral to visit the fascinating cathedral in Hanoi!

Hanoi Opera House – Neo-classical French architecture featuring Gothic themes

(Hanoi Opera House-source from @nambe.93)

The beautiful Hanoi Opera House was built by French in 1911. It is the biggest theater in Vietnam and speaks volumes as historical and cultural evidence of Vietnam under French rule.

The interior is even more magnificent than the exterior with many arguing it is aesthetically even more appealing than the Paris Opera House.

Other City Sight Seeing

If you would like to visit these places below, you need to miss some destinations above or being quite rush! If you are not in rush and tired, you can also spend time exploring Out of the Old Quarter. But, if you are, do not be ambitious to cover every destination!

Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum

(St. Joseph Cathedral-source from @matthew_kt.lee)

Visit Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum to learn more about local culture and history. If you do not know about my country history, no problem! Ho Chi Minh is our former prime minister who is called Uncle Ho. He played a vital role in bringing freedom to Vietnam and revolutionize the country.

It does not take a lot of time If you visit other close destinations to Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum: Ho Chi Minh Museum and One Pillar Pagoda. All these destinations are belong to Ho Chi Minh Complex. For local, it is very important to visit “Uncle Ho” at your first time in Hanoi to show your respect to the Uncle of Vietnam.

Temple of Literature

(Temple of Literature-source from @thejoifactory)

The list of “what to see in hanoi for a day” can not miss Temple of literature. The architecture of Literature Temple present strongly the unique Vietnamese culture. Each building has a spiritual meaning and stands for the educational principle of Vietnam in the past.

It is a ritual that we ask from “Ong Do” a word that might be luckiness, health or wealth…All presents the hope of locals to new year with new success and new good things coming.

Enjoying the dinner with Bun Cha

(Bun cha Hanoi-source from @saigonsocialnyc)

Locals love “bun cha”, I love “bun cha”. And you will be sure to love it too! Spend your dinner at a luxury restaurant or even a street store, then order yourself a bow of bun cha. You definitely miss this dish whenever you come home!

Drinking beer in Ta Hien Beer Street

(Ta Hien street-source from @chibao205)

Drinking Hanoi beer is not merely for your thrust. It is a Hanoi life style and one of top 41 things to do in Hanoi for any visitors. If you need a travel buddy or a local team to drink with, have a chat on the street, why not contact us now?

Where to stay in Ha Noi

Have a quick look at our best hotels here:

Nikko Hotel Hanoi

(Nikko Hotel Hanoi-source from @yuziyu41)

No surprise at the NIKKO hotel: Excellent welcome from the bell staff to the front guest; comfortable, quiet and clean room, and a good wifi network. The hotel is conveniently located next a a lake, perfect for a relaxing evening walk, and about 10 minute drive to the old town-said by a visitor on Trip Advisor.

Intercontinental Hanoi WestLake

(Intercontinental Hanoi WestLake-source from @run_hyunae)

We had lovely stay here. Very professional and helpful staff. Hassle free checkin and out. They helped us with lot of information and even helped us for cab services. Highly recommend and their breakfast had great selections.-said by a visitor on Trip Advisor.

Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi Hotel

(Sofitel Saigon Plaza Hotel-source from @songyoung.kim)

Great hotel, although expensive. The eye for detail is great. Fruits in the afternoon and cookies in the morning in the room. great laundry service! Professional and friendly staf. Good number of restaurants and bars-said by a visitor on Trip Advisor

Hotel De L’Opera MGallery Collection Hanoi

(Hotel De L’Opera MGallery Collection Hanoi-source from @astrid.nng)

I have stayed here many times and this is the first time to write a review. This is great hotel. Prime location, right at the heart and center of tourism in Hanoi! Nice hotel, cozy room. Especially, EXCELLENT service. Highly recommended!-said by a visitor on Trip Advisor

Apricot Hotel Hanoi

(Apricot Hotel Hanoi-source from @jenny_eatyourheartout)

Totally recomend this hotel! Luxurious rooms and lobby, senzational breakfast, amazing rooftop swimming pool with a large view of Hoan Kiem Lake, 6* service.
Visiting the Old Quarter is so easy from this hotel.
Definately will return here when visiting Ha Noi.-said by a visitor on Trip Advisor.

10 Harsh but True Things about Vietnam

1. Fraud

Those fake tour companies try to gather as many tourists as possible, then send them on another tour to get some commission. In these fake tours, you cannot experience the best service that the real one brings. Interestingly, those fake tours are usually cheaper than the real ones.

Tips to avoid fake travel tours in Vietnam

• Make sure that you’re using the right tour company’s website to look for the tours. There are several fake websites which claim them real, so you need to check them carefully.
• Visit the correct address of the tour company. In one street there can be more than ten shops with the same name, so you should make sure that you’re going to the correct one.
• Book tours with trusted sites such as Vinaday Go Reise

2. Airport – stolen checked luggage

So, you just arrived in this lovely country, and you figure out that your checked baggage was opened and something was taken? You will feel mad at that time. I know. Don’t be so surprised and shocked because it’s quite common in Vietnamese airports. The airport officers are trying to prevent it, but still, we should take care of ourselves first, right?

Tips to avoid stolen luggage in Vietnam

Having your things taken in checked baggage will ruin your trip! So, what is my advice for you?

Never, ever put any valuable things in your checked bags. You may be confident that you have a lock, but they can still somehow open it (as in my case), and your things will be gone.

You can complain about it with the airport service, but they will pay back a meager rate per kilogram.

Per kilogram? Can you imagine that? I bet that everything in your luggage is much more valuable than that, so the compensation is nothing!

You can try wrapping your luggage to protect it, but if there’s something wrong with your luggage, you will need to open it again and again, and that takes time.

So, just put whatever valuables into your handbag, and you will have a great trip to Vietnam.

3. Crossing streets in Vietnam

And yes, be careful when you cross the road! We are sure it’s an exciting experience for a non-Vietnamese. There are not many road markers in Ho Chi Minh city, so it’s quite scary to cross the road.

Tips for crossing streets in Vietnam

Don’t be afraid to face lots of motorcycles, buses, cars, etc. when you cross the street.

First, you should wait a bit and continue, and wait and continue, and keep doing that while watching all the vehicles.

You need to keep your eyes on vehicles on both sides because some people violate the rules and go in a different direction.

Be confident, and you can do it!

You should buy travel insurance in advance before visiting Vietnam.

4. Traffic accidents

According to the Traffic police department, in 2016, there were more than 21 000 traffic accidents, and almost 9000 people died.So, there are around 24.5 people die per day because of traffic accidents in Vietnam. This number doesn’t include injured people.

Traffic accidents can happen anyway. You can get hit when you cross the street, or when you are riding a bike, or in a car, even in your house. I hope some of my tips can help you have safe travels!

Tips to be safe on the road in Vietnam!

• Using public transportation such as bus: I know that public transportation in Vietnam can terrify foreigners, but I feel much safer when I’m on the bus. The bigger the vehicle is, the more reliablity it brings. Think positively, the big box protects you. So maybe accidents can happen with some motorbikes, you will be still safe.
• Using a taxi: I also feel it’s safe when using a taxi. Now you can use Grab taxi which is convenient and cheaper than the traditional one.
• Walking: It may be dangerous. I know someone who was killed when walking on the street. However, in Vietnam, there are cases that people are killed when they are in their home, just because a truck hit and crashed into their home, so I still consider walking is a safe way.

5. Taxi scams

Almost the same with the overpayments, taxi scams are common in Vietnam, and they happen to everyone. The taxi driver will try to drive you around and around to charge more money.

Some foreigners will pay for it without knowing that they get scammed. In other cases, the taxi drivers fix their measurement, so the total cost is double or more than the real price.

Tip to avoid Taxi scams in Vietnam

• Check Google map/ or Maps.me to calculate the distance of your final destination. Then, you can multiply the length by the money per kilometer.
• Ask the taxi driver how much you need to pay before starting the trip.
• Choose taxi companies which have a good reputation such as Mai Linh or Vinasun. You can also order Grab as well (Uber is unavailable in Vietnam). However, Grab is only available in specific cities such as Ha Noi, Ho Chi Minh or Da Nang.

6. Robbery

Robbery and Pick-Pocketing happens everywhere in Vietnam, and the most common cases of theft are your phones/ bags. Imagine that you are riding your bike/ motorcycle or walking on the street with your phone/ bag, and in 1 second, it’s gone. You only see two guys on a motorbike going fast, and you don’t see their faces. It sounds scary, but you have ways to prevent this!

Tips to avoid being robbed in Vietnam

• Phone: Don’t listen to your phone when you are on the street. If you need to listen to a phone call, you should choose a corner and listen to it. Be careful when using your phone on the street as well.
• Bag: I suggest to use a cross-body bag. The robbers have skills to take other bags fast.  Be careful, and leave your necessary things in your accommodation if you don’t need to bring them outside.
• Travel insurance: You should purchase travel insurance.

7. Pickpocket

Pickpocketing can happen anywhere, anytime. My father got pickpocketed twice when we went to a festival together. It happens a lot in crowded places.

Tips to avoid pickpocket in Vietnam

Take care of your things. You should put money in your front pocket, not in the back. Therefore, you can check it from time to time to make sure it is still there.

8. Safety food

Vietnamese food is amazing! There are so many types of food for you to choose from, but food safety is a big problem in Vietnam. Street food is delicious, but most of the time it is not clean and healthy. The sellers may not prepare them carefully, or because of the climate, the food may have some problems. The quality of food is your main concern when traveling in Vietnam.

Tips to stay healthy in Vietnam

• It’s quite hard to avoid this situation. Hygiene food safety has become one of the most concerns in Vietnam, and the Vietnamese government is trying to improve it.
• For me, I usually go to some favorite restaurants, so I know where to avoid, and where to go. However, as a foreigner, you can also read reviews about the restaurants. You can choose to eat in a restaurant which looks clean and has many visitors. Don’t eat in one where there’s no one inside.
• Anyway, buy some medicine in case you have diarrhea or a problem with your stomach.

9. Bad service – bad manners

Many people complain about the lousy service in Vietnamese restaurants. It’s true. We think one of the reasons is that it’s crowded, but the employees cannot use those excuses to serve badly. Also, not many Vietnamese can speak English, so it may be challenging to communicate.

Tips to get the best service in Vietnamese restaurants

You should learn body language or learn some basic Vietnamese to use to order food or service. The best way is to have Vietnamese friends, so they can show you the right places to eat!

10. Overpayments

This situation is quite common for travelers. You visit a different country, you look different, and you are charged more than the locals. We heard about a case that a Japanese visitor paid nearly 3 million VND for a cyclo tour. Again, this situation is prevalent in Vietnam, and it happens to both foreigners and locals. So, take some tips below to avoid this.

Tips to avoid Overpayments in Vietnam

• If you want to be ripped off, you can enter a restaurant with no price sign. Don’t do that, especially if you are a visitor. Even some restaurants have a menu, and they may charge you to sit. Sounds terrible, right?
• You need to ask clearly about the price before you order anything. It’s the same with eating street food, remember to ask the price before buying it. If you feel that you are paying higher than locals, leave that place and go to another location. There are plenty of restaurants to choose from.

Conclusion, we are very pleased to show you 3 best destinations in Vietnam. Not only do you save your travel time, but you also explore all the nice places, best food and local experience. If you have any questions about Vietnam tours, best hotels and tips to travel, just feel free to visit us:

😎😎😎Vinaday Go Reise 😎😎😎