2 Days in Hanoi Vietnam – 2023 Guide

How many days should I stay in Hanoi Vietnam? We are often asked this question and would recommend setting aside at least 2 days in Hanoi. If you are wondering what to do in Hanoi in 2 days, you are in for a real treat as you will find a vibrant city that is filled with history and colour.

Hanoi is also the gateway to the natural beauty of Ha Long Bay, Sapa, Hoa Lu and Tam Coc. In this article we have put together important tips, advice and recommendations for places to stay and things to do in 2 days in Hanoi Vietnam. So, come along with us as we take you on a journey to Hanoi Vietnam.

What to see and do during 2 days in Hanoi
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Where is Hanoi Vietnam

Hanoi is the capital city of Vietnam and the second largest city following Ho Chi Minh City. Located within the Red River delta in Northern Vietnam, Hanoi is renowned as the cultural and political centre of Vietnam.

Many people who visit Vietnam like to take a flight to Hanoi in the north and work their way down to Ho Chi Minh City in the south. Travelling this way gives a good overview of Vietnam’s changing landscape, history, food and of course, the people.

Top Tips – Before You Leave Home

When planning your Vietnam travel, there are a few things you should consider before you leave home. Here is our top travel plan tip for your next Vietnam holiday.

Essential Vietnam travel products

Protect your Vietnam holiday with travel insurance from Cover-More Click here for quote

Get your Vietnam visa online with our preferred partner – Click here for pricing and more information

Keep in touch and surf the Internet with an eSIM for your mobile devices – Click here to pre-purchase before your travel

Avoid high currency conversion charges with a free Wise card to withdraw local currency at ATMs – Click here for more information

Hanoi First Impressions

Leaving the peace of my Old Quarter hotel, I step out into the heat of the day. Motorbikes dash past weaving in and out of traffic, their horns united in a chaotic melody. Shopkeepers invite you to buy their wares and the perfume of freshly cut flowers intermingle with the mouth-watering scent of food being cooked in one of the small shops that line the street.

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Hanoi moves at a frenetic pace, motorbikes dart past and you are assaulted with sound, light and colour, making it hard to focus but filling you with a sense of excitement. This was the moment I realised I was in love with Hanoi Vietnam.

Hanoi Old Quarter street scene
Exploring the streets of Hanoi Old Quarter

10 things to see in Hanoi and beyond

If you are looking for tips on what to see in Hanoi, you will find plenty of things to do during 2 days in Hanoi Vietnam. Choosing the best Hanoi attractions is easy, here are just ten of our favourites.

  • Hoan Kiem Lake
  • Huc Bridge & Ngoc Son Temple
  • Water Puppets
  • Hoa Lo Prison (Hanoi Hilton)
  • Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum
  • Hanoi Opera House
  • Explore the 36 Streets
  • Dong Xuan Market
  • Visit Ha Long Bay
  • Visit Hoa Lu and Tam Coc

The most popular place to stay in Hanoi is the Old Quarter. The area is full of character and home to the 36 Streets. Each street features a different craft or trade, and you will find entire streets devoted to flowers, silk, silver, shoes, bamboo, brass and more.

The Old Quarter has an interesting architecture, the buildings are thin, deep and tall with a timeworn charm that is uniquely Vietnamese. These days many of these family homes have been turned into hotels, restaurants and businesses, offering a glimpse of old Hanoi.

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You will also find buildings of cultural significance which remind us of Vietnam’s glorious and often turbulent past. The Hanoi Opera house with its French colonial beauty, the deeply moving Hoa Lo Prison (Hanoi Hilton) and Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum are just some of the places to see in Hanoi.

If you are looking to escape the city, you will find a good range of day trips that will have you cruising past the towering limestone karsts and discovering the legends of Ha Long Bay or visiting the caves and temples of Hoa Lu and Tam Coc.

During your 2 Days in Hanoi, you may choose to take to the streets and explore Hanoi on your own or immerse yourself in the best of Hanoi by taking a Hanoi city tour or day trip. Here are a few of the must do Hanoi tours.

The most popular place to stay in Hanoi is the Old Quarter. The area is full of character and home to the 36 Streets. Each street features a different craft or trade, and you will find entire streets dedicated to silk, silver, shoes, bamboo, brass and more.

The Old Quarter has an interesting architecture, the buildings are thin, deep and tall with a timeworn charm that is uniquely Vietnamese. These days many of these family homes have been turned into hotels, restaurants and businesses, offering a glimpse into old Hanoi.

You will also find buildings of cultural significance which remind us of Vietnam’s glorious and often turbulent past. The Hanoi Opera house with its French colonial beauty, the deeply moving Hoa Lo Prison (Hanoi Hilton) and Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum are just some of the places to see in Hanoi.

During your 2 Days in Hanoi, you may choose to take to the streets and explore Hanoi on your own or immerse yourself in the best of Hanoi by taking a Hanoi city tour. Here are a few of the must do Hanoi tours.

The buildings of Hanoi Old Quarter are thin, deep, and tall, with a distinctly Vietnamese charm.
Hanoi street scene

Hanoi Old Quarter Tours

The streets of Hanoi’s Old Quarter are full of character and with such a short visit there are loads of tours to take advantage of, it’s up to you to choose your favourite. 

Hanoi Hop-On Hop-Off Tour

With so much to see why not take a Hanoi Hop-On Hop-Off Tour. This tour is one of my all-time favourites and packs so much in. The Hop-On Hop-Off bus stops at the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, Hanoi Opera House, The Hanoi Military Museum and the pretty Frog Garden to name a few. With 24 hour and 48 hour tickets to choose from it’s one of the best options for those on a tight time frame.

Click here for Hanoi Hop-On Hop-Off bus tour and reviews

Old Quarter Food Tour

With only 2 days in Hanoi, one of the best ways to try the local cuisine is to take an Old Quarter food tour. This is your chance to get an authentic Hanoi food experience as you try local delicacies such as Pho and egg coffee while eating out with the locals.

Click here for Old Quarter Food tours and reviews

Hanoi Sightseeing Motorbike Tour

Ever wondered what it would be like to whizz through the streets of Hanoi? Here’s your chance to find out with a Hanoi sightseeing motorbike tour. Visit such places as the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, Hanoi Opera house and take a ride through the 36 streets of Old Hanoi and so much more.

Click here for Hanoi Sightseeing Motorbike tour and reviews

One of the top things to do in Hanoi is to visit the Hanoi Opera House
Visit the Hanoi Opera House on your sightseeing tour of Hanoi

Vietnamese Cooking Class and Market Tour

Love Vietnamese food? Why not try making it yourself by taking a Vietnamese cooking class. This is a great way to explore local culture. First visit a local market to learn about the ingredients before heading back to discover the secrets of Vietnamese cooking.

Click here for Vietnamese Cooking Class and Market tour and reviews

Fresh produce at a market stall in Hanoi
A typical street market stall in Hanoi Old Quarter

Hanoi Instagram Private Tour

Whether you want to get that perfect Instagram worthy shot or are just wanting to take a memorable holiday snap, this private tour will have you taking that shot to remember. The tour visits a selection of scenic hotspots including the Huc Bridge, St Joseph’s Cathedral and Train Street.

Click here for Hanoi Instagram Private Tour and reviews

The Huc Bridge in Hanoi Vietnam. A favourite for camera enthusiasts to capture that perfect shot.
Get your camera ready to capture that perfect Instagram shot

Things to do in Hanoi at night

Hanoi by night is alive and beckoning you to join in the fun. For some just walking the streets of Hanoi is entertainment enough, dropping into small restaurants and bars to watch the world go by.

For those who like more structure, here are a range of tours that will help you get the most out of Hanoi by night.

The streets of Hanoi Old Quarter by night
Exploring the streets of Hanoi Old Quarter at night

Hanoi Evening Street Eats Tour

This is a great way to discover local food while learning more about Hanoi life. Try noodles and snacks at the pop up restaurants, sample local brews and visit a popular ice cream parlour while soaking up the Hanoi nightlife.

Click here for Hanoi Evening Street Eats tour and reviews

Try Pho noodle soup on the Evening Street Eats Tour of Hanoi Old Quarter
A typical noodle shop in Hanoi Old Quarter

Special Hanoi night out tour

This is your chance to see the Hanoi’s famous water puppet show which has been a Vietnamese tradition for 1,000 years. Top off the evening with a dinner of Hanoi’s favourite dishes before walking through the Old Quarter and finishing the night with a local tea.

Click here for Special Hanoi Night Out tour and reviews 

Hanoi's famous water puppet show
Hanoi’s famous water puppet show

Things to do in Hanoi Vietnam

If you enjoy travelling independently you will find a huge range of things to do in Hanoi. So, if you are wondering what to do in Hanoi, here is our list of our favourite Hanoi tourist attractions. If you are on a tight time frame you will find plenty of things to see in Hanoi on 2 days 1 night stay.

Things to do in Hanoi Vietnam If you enjoy travelling independently you will find a huge range of things to do in Hanoi. So, if you are wondering what to do in Hanoi, here is our list of our favourite Hanoi tourist attractions. If you are on a tight time frame you will find plenty of things to see in Hanoi on 2 days 1 night stay.

Hoan Kiem Lake

Hoan Kiem Lake is in the centre of Hanoi’s Old Quarter. This peaceful oasis is the heart and soul of Hanoi. Surrounded by trees, visiting Hoan Kiem Lake is a pleasant way to escape the heat, relax and people watch.

Enjoying a morning walk and people watching around Hoan  Kiem Lake Hanoi Old Quarter.
Family’s spending Sunday around Hoan Kiem Lake

Of a weekend the busy streets around the lake are closed and the area comes to life. Hanoi residents begin their day with early morning rituals of Tai Chi, dancing and relaxing with family and friends. Of an evening the weekend night markets hum as people flock to the streets in search of a bargain.

One of the best things to do in Hanoi at night is to get up high to watch the sunset over the lake. There are a selection of restaurants and bars which have views of Hoan Kiem Lake, including the Twilight Sky Bar in the La Siesta Premium Cao Go Hotel and the Lau Cao Go Restaurant.

Hoan Kiem Lake is magic by night, the ruby lit spans of the Huc Bridge reflect a shimmering red pathway across to Ngoc Son Temple.

The Huc Bridge and Ngoc Son Temple Hanoi Vietnam
Views of the Huc Bridge and Ngoc Son Temple on Hoan Kiem Lake

Ngoc Son Temple

Ngoc Son Temple (The Temple of the Jade Mountain) sits on Jade Island in Hoan Kiem lake. The Ngoc Son Temple can be reached by crossing the iconic red Huc Bridge for which Hoan Kiem Lake is so famous. The Temple is dedicated to General Tran Hung Dao who defeated the invading Mongol army in the 13th century.

Inside the Ngoc Son Temple on Jade Island Hoan Kiem Lake
Ngoc Son Temple on Hoan Kiem Lake

As you walk through the ornate red doors of the temple complex you are immediately transported to a haven of serenity. Peaceful gardens with views overlooking the lake play host to the richly decorated Ngoc Son Temple. Large brass incense burners are framed by the opulent red temple structure and the gleam of golden lacquer work shines from within the dark interior.

Ngoc Son Temple Gardens Hanoi Vietnam
The peaceful gardens of Ngoc Son Temple

Trang Long Water Puppet Theatre

Trang Long Water Puppet Theatre is not far from the Ngon Son Temple and one of the most popular places to visit in Hanoi. Vietnamese water puppetry is a traditional art form that has been part of Vietnamese culture for over 1,000 years.

Singers and musicians of the Trang Long Water Puppet Theatre Hanoi
The talented singers and musicians of the Trang Long Water Puppet Theatre

To be truthful I wasn’t sure if I wanted to see the Water Puppets, it wasn’t until our second trip to Vietnam that I decided to go and see what all the fuss was about. All I can say is that it was so entertaining, the music and singing were strikingly beautiful, and the story lines were funny, sad and historical. 

While the show is in Vietnamese the emotions translate across all ethnic backgrounds. A fabulous show by a troupe of talented entertainers.

Check here to purchase water puppet skip the line tickets.

Trang Long Water Puppet Theatre show. A highlight of many day trips in Hanoi
The colourful Trang Long Water Puppet show

Hoa Lo Prison (The Hanoi Hilton)

Hoa Lo Prison or the Hanoi Hilton as it is sometimes known, became infamous during the Vietnam War. The Hanoi Hilton held American POW’s that had been captured during the conflict. A notable detainee was Senator John McCain who was imprisoned here between 1967-1973.

During our visit to Hoa Lo Prison I was surprised to learn that the prison was originally built by French colonialists in 1896 to house political prisoners fighting for independence. The prison shows examples of the harsh punishments endured by the prisoners, including the guillotine which was used on many occasions.

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I found the prison to be a sobering experience and one that should be seen by everyone visiting Hanoi. My visit made me realise that in history sometimes there is more than one truth.

Example of Hoa Lo Prison Hanoi living conditions
The brutal living conditions in Hoa Lo Prison Hanoi

Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum

Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum is the resting place of President Ho Chi Minh. Nestled amid beautiful gardens this imposing structure demonstrates the love and respect the Vietnamese people have for their departed leader.

Queues to view President Ho Chi Minh lying in State are long. Waiting in line is hot, so make sure to bring a hat and fan to keep cool. Photography is not allowed inside the Mausoleum and show respect by dressing appropriately.

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Dong Xuan Market

Dong Xuan Market is a wholesale market full of shoes, children’s toys, clothing and textiles. If there is anything you need you will probably find it at Dong Xuan Market!

Outside there is a wet market full of stalls selling dried herbs and spices, fruit and vegetables and a variety of seafood. The isles aren’t wide so it can be a squeeze, but it is a must for anyone who loves the excitement of the markets.

Dong Xuan Market in Hanoi is the place to come for all your shoes, toys, clothing, and textiles
The shoe section at Dong Xuan Market

Where to stay in Hanoi

Whether you stay 2 days in Hanoi or longer there is a great range of Hanoi hotels to choose from. From budget to 5 star hotel, Hanoi has an option for everyone. Here are a few of our top Hanoi hotel reviews to help make planning your trip to Hanoi easier.

BOOK NOW to get the best Hanoi hotel deals

La Nueva Boutique Hotel Hanoi & Spa Review

The La Nueva Boutique Hotel Hanoi & Spa is in the heart of the Hanoi Old Quarter and a two minute walk to Hanoi’s picturesque Hoan Kiem Lake. This stylish boutique hotel has a selection of rooms which range from classic and deluxe rooms, family rooms to junior and executive suites.

The décor is contemporary with dark wood and leather accents. Beds are a dream to sleep in and there is a comfortable sitting area and desk. The bathroom is roomy and has a choice of regular and rainwater shower.

Estrella Sky Bar at the La Nueva Boutique Hotel Hanoi & Spa Hanoi Vietnam
La Nueva Boutique Hotel Hanoi & Spa Estrella Sky Bar

The La Nueva Boutique Hotel Hanoi & Spa boasts an onsite restaurant and sky bar, both of which have views overlooking the Hanoi skyline. After a busy day of sightseeing, relax in the cosy lounge or unwind with a spa treatment.

BOOK NOW your stay at the La Nueva Boutique Hotel Hanoi & Spa

La Siesta Premium Hang Be review

Stepping from busy Hang Be street into the La Siesta Premium Hang Be is like stepping into a sleek modern world. The foyer is decorated with chic black, white and grey furnishings with just a splash of turquoise.

Welcome to the style and comfort of the La Siesta Premium Hang Be! There are a selection of rooms including the luxurious junior suite with balcony and studio with its own terrace. Rooms and bedding are comfortable, and facilities include room service and spa.

The views from the Lighthouse Sky Bar at the La Siesta Premium Hang Be hotel in Hanoi Vietnam. A great place to stay during a 2-day visit
The views from the Lighthouse Sky Bar

My favourite feature of La Siesta Premium Hang Be would have to be the roof top Lighthouse Sky Bar, it’s the perfect place to enjoy Happy Hour with a Hanoi sunset and views overlooking the city and Red River.

The La Siesta Premium Hang Be is in a perfect location, walking distance to Hoan Kiem Lake, The Trang Long Water Puppet Theatre and the Huc Bridge.

BOOK NOW your stay at La Siesta Premium Hang Be Hotel.

Sofitel Legend Metropole Hotel review

For the ultimate in luxury you can’t go past Hanoi’s Sofitel Legend Metropole Hotel. Although this grand old building is in the French Quarter it is still within walking distance to the Old Quarter.

The Sofitel is a historical landmark that has been hosting guests since 1901. With famous guests such as actor Charlie Chaplin and authors Graham Greene and Somerset Maugham the hotel has a reputation for delivering only the finest.

Walking into the foyer is like taking a step back in time. The mix of Vietnamese accents and French Neo Classical style is charming. You can choose to revisit the past by staying in the historical wing or choose the style of the opera wing.

The hotel boasts 4 restaurants, bars and world class spa. Hotel includes Club Metropole benefits for selected rooms and Lanvin or Hermes bath products.

For those wanting to spoil themselves during their trip to Hanoi, the Sofitel Legend Metropole Hotel is the ultimate experience.

BOOK NOW to stay at Sofitel Legend Metropole Hotel.

La Beaute De Hanoi Hotel review

We have stayed at the La Beaute De Hanoi Hotel twice in the last few years and have always enjoyed our stay. The bed and pillows were comfortable and there were modern bathroom fittings.

The boutique hotel is in a small lane and is a quiet retreat from Hanoi’s chaotic traffic. From the moment we walked in the door the hotel staff were attentive, sitting us down and giving us information about the city and they continued to make us feel welcome throughout our stay.

BOOK NOW to stay at the La Beaute De Hanoi Hotel.

Hanoi Day Trips & Multi Day Tours

Many people visiting Hanoi come for the sole purpose of seeing the spectacular beauty and grandeur of Halong Bay, Hoa Lu & Tam Coc and the mountain region of Sapa. Both Halong Bay, Hoa Lu and Tam Coc can be explored in a day but there is also a selection of multi day tours that allow you to extend your stay in Halong Bay or take the longer journey to Sapa.

Halong Bay (Ha Long Bay)

Halong Bay is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most beautiful places in the world. Jagged limestone islands jut out of the emerald waters to form a picturesque landscape shrouded in myth. These islands are said to be formed by dragons and are the realm of hidden caves and secluded coves.

Halong Bay is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a popular day trip from Hanoi
The magnificent limestone islands of Halong Bay

Halong Bay Day Trips

One of the most sort after day trips from Hanoi is to Halong Bay. If you are planning how to get from Hanoi to Halong Bay, look no further than one of these Halong Bay tours.

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Choosing Your Halong Bay Cruise

During our visits to Hanoi, we have experienced both the Halong Bay day tour and the Halong Bay 2 day 1 night cruise and can highly recommend them. We have also spoken to people who have taken the Halong Bay 3 day 2 night cruise, and they were happy with their choice.

Booking a Halong Bay tour from Hanoi is easy, you just need to decide which cruise suits your time frame and budget. Cruises comprise of a choice of activities which will vary from the Halong Bay day trip, the Halong Bay 1 night cruise and the Halong Bay 2 night cruise.

Halong Bay cruise activities include kayaking, caving and swimming. During the cruise you will be served a delicious selection of Vietnamese dishes. There are additional activities such as cooking classes, squid fishing and yoga on the overnight cruise and the 3 day 2 night cruise visits a pearl farm and floating village.

Click here to see what activities are included in your Halong Bay Cruise

Kayaking on Halong Bay Vietnam
Kayaking on Halong Bay. Just one of the activities on a Halong Bay cruise

How to get to Halong Bay

The trip from Hanoi to Halong Bay takes around 3.5 hours. Driving through the Red River Delta is the perfect chance to see a more rural Vietnam.

Locals in conical Non La hats work in rice fields which stretch out in a patchwork to the horizon. Passing through small towns you can watch locals going about their daily life and if you are lucky (as we were) you may even see a wedding.

Rice paddies on the way to Halong Bay Vietnam
Rural landscapes on the way to Halong Bay

Don’t forget these essential Vietnam travel products

Protect your holiday with travel insurance from Cover-More Click here for quote

Get your Vietnam visa online with our preferred partner – Click here for pricing and more information

Keep in touch and surf the Internet with an eSIM for your mobile devices – Click here to pre-purchase before your travel

Avoid high currency conversion charges with a free Wise card to withdraw local currency at ATMs – Click here for more information

Hoa Lu & Tam Coc

If you want to escape the city and get a taste of rural life, make sure to visit Hoa Lu and Tam Coc. This tour will have you stepping back in time to the 10th and 11th centuries on a visit to Hoa Lu, the ancient capital of Vietnam. Stroll through this former citadel and explore the impressive King Dinh and King Ding Temples.

Hoa Lu & Tam Coc Vietnam
Stunning rural scenes near Tam Coc

From Tam Coc take a boat ride on the Ngo Dong River and pass through a spectacular scenery of limestone karsts and caves. Take a leisurely bike ride through the countryside and enjoy lunch before heading back to Hanoi.

BOOK NOW for Hoa Lu & Tam Coc Tours

Take a trip to Sapa (Sa Pa) after your stay in Hanoi

The town of Sapa is framed by the majestic Hoang Lien Son Mountains and sits on the edge of the picturesque Sa Pa Lake in Northern Vietnam. Sapa is well-known as a trekking base and home to the terraced rice fields of the Muong Hoa Valley. A visit to the Sapa region is an opportunity to get a glimpse into the life of the ethnic hilltribes that inhabit the area.

Sapa in Vietnam
Views overlooking Sapa in Northern Vietnam

When visiting Sapa make sure to visit the Bac Ha market, an ethnic market which is held every Sunday. While there take the cable car up to Mount Fansipan to explore the temple complex and admire the breathtaking views of the ‘Roof of Indochina.’ Sa Pa is approximately 320 km from Hanoi.

If you are travelling independently there are two ways to get from Hanoi to Sapa, by bus or train. Some choose to take the Hanoi to Sapa train to Lao Cai and continue the 32km journey to Sapa by shuttle van. The other option is to take a Hanoi to Sapa bus which takes around five to six hours and stops in the middle of town.

The third and most popular option is to take one of the many Sapa tours that highlight the beauty and diversity of the region. The best time to visit Sapa is between September to October and April to May.

Crossing the Street in Hanoi

Like many Asian countries, crossing the street in Vietnam is tricky, motorbikes and cars pass in an endless stream and even though there are crossings most traffic won’t stop at them. Many tell you to just step out and start walking, the traffic will go around you, but this isn’t altogether true, bikes do tend to go around you, but cars often won’t.

My advice is to be aware that traffic doesn’t stop at crossings and if possible cross with a local. Step out into the traffic, walk slowly keeping an eye on the traffic, most motorbikes will avoid you but judge the cars by their speed, if they are going to fast let them pass.

If a car or motorbike are beeping their horn they are not going to stop, let them continue before walking on. Pay attention when walking on the sidewalk as motorbikes often drive along it. I know it may sound daunting but after the first time it becomes a lot easier and you feel a real sense of achievement every time you cross the road.

Crossing the street in Hanoi can be daunting. Just remember that traffic doesn't stop at crossings and try to cross the road in Vietnam with a local
Hanoi traffic

Do you need a visa for your Hanoi Vietnam vacation?

Visa requirements vary from country to country so finding out whether you need a Visa to enter your chosen destination should be top priority when planning your trip. Look into visa requirements before booking your flight as visa processing may be lengthy and you will need to take that extra time into consideration.

Most people visiting Vietnam will need a Vietnam Visa for entry into the country, to find out more on Vietnam Visa requirements Click Here.

How to get a Vietnam Visa

There is a selection of countries that are eligible for a Vietnam visa on arrival. If you belong to one of these countries and are arriving on an International flight into Hanoi, Danang, Hai Phong, Nha Trang or Ho Chi Minh City airports, there is an alternative to obtaining a full visa stamp from the Vietnamese Embassy in your home country.

iVisa.com

The e-Visa or visa on arrival are simple and cheap options. Each type has advantages and depend on how long you will be staying in Vietnam and if you need single or multiple entry. We choose the visa on arrival as we stay longer than 30 days. More information on the visa types and how to apply can be found in our extensive guide to Australians visa for Vietnam.

We have used this option twice and it was easy, we just downloaded and filled in the papers and took along passport photos which were handed over for processing on arrival.

Check Vietnam Visa price

Click here to get your Vietnam Visa now.

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Vietnam sim card

These days part of the holiday fun is sharing your holiday with family and friends back home. It also adds peace of mind should anything go wrong. Vietnam has a first rate internet service which is quick and cheap.

Buying a Sim card can sometimes be tricky when dealing with a language barrier. When we found a service that allows you to purchase an eSim online before you leave home we were thrilled! It’s an easy option, one less thing to worry about when you arrive in Hanoi.

Click here to order your eSim for Vietnam.

Travel within Vietnam

To travel in Vietnam by bus and train our preferred booking website is 12GoAsia. They have a comprehensive booking system where you can purchase discounted travel within Vietnam and South East Asia

Click here to plan your Vietnam travel.

Don’t forget Vietnam travel insurance

There have been many horror stories about tourists not taking out travel insurance before leaving home. Accidents happen anywhere and Asia is no exception. Without insurance medical bills can add up quite quickly.

We always take out travel insurance and think it should be third on your list of things to do before travelling, right after purchasing your flight tickets and accommodation.

We partner with Cover-More Insurance and have been using them for many years and can highly recommend them.

Click here to learn more about Cover-More travel insurance.

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Quick facts on Hanoi

Is Hanoi safe for solo female travel travellers?

Hanoi is considered safe for solo female travellers. Crime against foreigners is rare and you will not feel out of place walking around the main tourist areas of the Old Quarter day or night. Naturally as in all cities it’s wise avoid dark side streets late at night.

When is the best time to visit Hanoi?

The best seasons to visit Hanoi are September to November which is Autumn and February to April which is Spring. The weather is pleasant with milder temperatures during this time.

What is the best currency to use in Vietnam?

Vietnamese Dong (VND) is the official currency in Vietnam. US dollars are also accepted by many large hotels and large shops. Currency exchanges are widely available throughout Vietnam.

How far is it from Hanoi to Halong Bay?

The trip from Hanoi to Halong Bay takes around 3.5 hours. Halong Bay tour operators will arrange transport from your Hanoi Hotel to Halong Bay and transport will be included in the cost of your tour.

Last Words on 2 Days in Hanoi Vietnam

We hope you enjoyed our article on 2 Days in Hanoi Vietnam! It’s a fascinating city, one that we fell in love with and I’m sure you will fall in love with Hanoi too.

Vietnam is a captivating country and as you make your way from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City make sure to spend time exploring the Da Nang attractions together with in the ancient town of Hoi An. There are so many things to do in Hoi An we suggest staying in that region for at least 5 days.

While in Hoi An you should also visit the nearby seaside village of An Bang beach Vietnam. We spent a month in that part of Vietnam as there was so much to see and do.

Have you visited Hanoi Vietnam? If so, we would love to hear about your favourite things to do in Hanoi. Please feel free to leave a comment below.

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6 thoughts on “2 Days in Hanoi Vietnam – 2023 Guide”

  1. I considered going to Hanoi when I was in South East Asia a couple of years back but never made it. I was afraid of trying to visit too many places in not enough days. Now I am sad I did not extend my trip a couple of days more to visit. Looks like I missed a fantastic place!

  2. You’ve certainly summed up the traffic in Hanoi! Those scooters were something else. I wonder if the locals think its weird when we follow them across the road though.

  3. Hi Jenn, Hanoi is a feast for the eyes Jenn, you really do need to come back and visit if you get the chance. We are currently in Hoi An Vietnam and I have to say that I am quickly falling in love with the country. Thank you for your comment! 🙂

  4. Hi Maddy, Hmmm I never thought that my act of desperation could be interpreted as stalking, good point Maddy! 🙂 Lets hope that they see the funny side and feel like celebrities as they ferry shell shocked tourists across the road. 🙂 Traffic and all Hanoi is still one of my favourite places. Thank you for your comment Maddy!

  5. Wow! That’s a VERY full two days!! Food sounds fab, and attractions like the water puppets, Halong Bay cruise and temples sound fascinating. Anyway … what’s not to love about a city where even crossing the road is an adventure?!

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