48 Hours in Hanoi: The Perfect 2-Day Itinerary (2026)
If you only have two days in Vietnam's capital before heading to the misty mountains of Sapa or the emerald waters of Halong Bay, you need a smart plan. This 48-hour itinerary cuts out the tourist traps and focuses on the absolute best culture, history, and street food.
Day 1: The Heart of Hanoi
Your first day is dedicated to the chaotic, vibrant, and historical center of the city. Wear comfortable walking shoes!
Sunrise at Hoan Kiem Lake
Beat the traffic and jet lag by walking to Hoan Kiem Lake at dawn. You will see hundreds of locals practicing Tai Chi and ballroom dancing. Cross the red The Huc bridge to visit Ngoc Son Temple before the tour buses arrive.
Get Lost in the Old Quarter
Dive deep into the 36 Streets of the Old Quarter. Make sure to walk down Hang Ma (paper street) and Hang Bac (silver street). Stop at Cafe Giang (39 Nguyen Huu Huan) for the city's legendary Egg Coffee.
Lunch: Bún Chả
You cannot leave Hanoi without trying Bún Chả (grilled pork with noodles). Head to Bun Cha Huong Lien, famously known as the place where President Obama and Anthony Bourdain ate.
Temple of Literature
Take a short Grab ride to Vietnam's first national university, built in 1070. The Temple of Literature offers a peaceful, stunning display of traditional Vietnamese architecture and serene gardens.
Street Food & Bia Hoi
Join the chaotic fun at Ta Hien "Beer Street" in the Old Quarter. Drink Bia Hoi (fresh draft beer) for $0.30 a glass. If you visit on a weekend, the Night Market is just one street over.
Day 2: History & Hidden Gems
Today covers the monumental history of Vietnam and some unique local experiences.
Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum Complex
Arrive early to avoid the longest lines. Walk past the imposing Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum (dress respectfully), see the humble Stilt House where he lived, and visit the iconic One Pillar Pagoda nearby.
Lunch: A Steaming Bowl of Phở
For your second lunch, try Hanoi's most famous dish. Phở Gia Truyền Bát Đàn is a local favorite in the Old Quarter, renowned for its clear, deeply flavorful beef broth.
Hanoi Train Street
Find a safe café along the famous Train Street (near Phung Hung street). Order a coconut coffee and wait for the massive locomotive to rumble just inches away from your table.
Water Puppet Show & Farewell Dinner
Catch a late afternoon performance at the Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre, a traditional art form born in the rice paddies. Finish your 48 hours with a nice dinner at a rooftop restaurant overlooking Hoan Kiem Lake.
What's Next: Leaving Hanoi?
After a fast-paced 48 hours in the capital, most travelers head to the mountains or the sea. Our two most popular onward journeys are Sapa and Halong Bay.
Pro Tip: Don't waste your morning fighting Hanoi traffic to reach a bus station. EcoSapa provides VIP Limousine transfers with complimentary pick-up right from your Old Quarter hotel.
Book Your Next Destination
Ready for the rice terraces of Sapa or a cruise in Halong Bay? Secure your luxury limousine seat today and travel stress-free.