Hanoi rewards time around its central lake, trading streets and historic courtyards. Keep the first day compact while becoming familiar with the pace of the streets.
Planning your days
A base near Hoàn Kiếm keeps the lake and Old Quarter close. Visit the Temple of Literature as another planned stop rather than zigzagging through the city. Give yourself time to get used to crossing busy streets.
Updated: . Trip lengths and day ideas are editorial suggestions, not a booked itinerary. Check current access, prices and transport with the operators. How we make our guides
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