Hanoi 7-Day Trip Itinerary

Arrive in Hanoi

Arrive at Noi Bai International Airport (HAN), proceed through immigration and customs.

Take a taxi or pre-booked transfer to your hotel in the Old Quarter.

Hotel Check-in & Rest

Check into your hotel, settle in, and take some time to refresh after your journey.

Stroll Hoan Kiem Lake

Enjoy a leisurely walk around the scenic Hoan Kiem Lake, a central point of Hanoi.

Admire the Turtle Tower and the iconic red Huc Bridge leading to Ngoc Son Temple (exterior view for now).

The area is particularly lively in the late afternoon/early evening. Keep an eye on children as it can be crowded.

Welcome Dinner in Old Quarter

Savor your first Vietnamese dinner at a local restaurant in the Old Quarter.

Explore options for classic dishes like Pho or Bun Cha.

Visit Hoa Lo Prison

Explore the historical Hoa Lo Prison, also known as the 'Hanoi Hilton'.

This museum offers a poignant insight into Vietnam's past.

Content might be sensitive for younger children, consider what is appropriate for your family.

Vietnam National Fine Arts Museum

Discover Vietnamese art through different periods, from ancient artifacts to contemporary works.

Lunch near Museum

Enjoy a casual lunch at a local eatery near the Fine Arts Museum.

Temple of Literature

Visit Vietnam's first national university, a beautiful complex of temples, courtyards, and gardens dedicated to Confucius.

Thang Long Water Puppet Show

Experience a traditional Vietnamese water puppet show, a unique art form depicting rural life and folk tales.

Great for families!

Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum Complex

Visit the solemn Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum (exterior view), Ho Chi Minh's Stilt House, and the One Pillar Pagoda.

Dress respectfully.

The Mausoleum is often closed on Mondays and Fridays, and for annual maintenance. Check opening hours in advance. Entry to mausoleum interior has strict dress code and rules.

Explore Hanoi Flagtower

Visit the historic Hanoi Flagtower, a symbol of Hanoi and a part of the Vietnam Military History Museum complex.

Hanoi Train Street Experience

Visit the unique Hanoi Train Street, where a narrow residential street has an active train track running through it.

Enjoy a coffee at a cafe next to the tracks and witness a passing train (if timing allows).

Train schedules are erratic; check locally for best times. Be extremely cautious and follow all safety instructions. Ensure children are supervised closely.

Discover Nguyen Art Gallery

Browse a collection of contemporary Vietnamese art at the Nguyen Art Gallery, offering a quiet contrast to the bustling city.

A good opportunity to see local art and perhaps find a unique souvenir.

Hanoi Street Food Adventure

Embark on a guided street food tour to sample a variety of delicious local delicacies, from savory snacks to sweet treats.

An excellent way to experience Hanoi's culinary scene.

Visit Chùa Quán Sứ

Explore Chùa Quán Sứ, a significant Buddhist temple and the headquarters of the Vietnam Buddhist Sangha.

Admire its traditional architecture and serene atmosphere.

Dress modestly (shoulders and knees covered) when visiting temples.

Shopping at Dong Xuan Market

Immerse yourselves in the bustling atmosphere of Dong Xuan Market, Hanoi's largest indoor market.

Find everything from clothing and household goods to souvenirs.

Be prepared to bargain for prices. Watch your belongings in crowded areas. A great place to experience local life and pick up gifts.

West Lake & Tran Quoc Pagoda

Take a scenic drive or taxi to West Lake, Hanoi's largest freshwater lake.

Visit the beautiful Tran Quoc Pagoda, one of the oldest pagodas in Vietnam, located on a small island near the southeastern shore.

The pagoda offers beautiful photo opportunities, especially at sunset. Consider renting bicycles for a family ride around parts of the lake.

Relaxed Family Dinner

Enjoy a relaxed family dinner, perhaps trying a different local cuisine or revisiting a favorite dish.

Hanoi Children's Palace

Visit the Hanoi Children's Palace, offering a glimpse into local children's activities and culture.

Features various clubs and facilities (check for public access).

While not a specific attraction, it offers a cultural perspective on local life for families. Alternatively, a morning at a local park like Lenin Park.

Last-minute Souvenir Shopping

Spend some time exploring the shops around the Old Quarter or a specific street known for crafts, finding unique souvenirs to take home.

Leisurely Lunch

Enjoy a final lunch in Hanoi before preparing for your next leg of the journey.

Prepare for Sapa Travel

Utilize the afternoon to relax, pack, and prepare for your overnight train or bus journey to Sapa, which typically departs in the evening.

Family Trekking Tour

Embark on a guided trekking adventure suitable for families, exploring the terraced rice fields and local villages surrounding Sapa. Enjoy breathtaking views and learn about the local culture from your guide. This trek will be adapted for children.

Wear comfortable shoes and bring water. The terrain is gentle but can be muddy. Book a tour in advance through 'Trekking Sapa'.

Local Village Lunch

Enjoy an authentic Vietnamese lunch at a local homestay or restaurant within one of the ethnic minority villages you visit during your trek.

Experience traditional hospitality.

Often included in trekking tours, or can be arranged with your guide. Be open to trying local specialties.

Explore Local Culture

After lunch, spend time exploring the village at your leisure.

Observe daily life, traditional crafts, and perhaps interact with local children. This provides a cultural immersion experience.

Consider purchasing handmade souvenirs directly from the villagers to support the local economy.

Dinner in Sapa Town

Return to Sapa town for a relaxing dinner.

Choose from a variety of local restaurants offering Vietnamese or international cuisine, suitable for families.

Many restaurants offer stunning views of the mountains. Look for places with outdoor seating for a pleasant evening.

Ham Rong Mountain Park

Visit Ham Rong Mountain for panoramic views of Sapa town, Fansipan peak, and the surrounding valleys.

Explore the orchid garden, stone forest, and enjoy traditional minority music performances.

The walk up involves stairs, but the views are well worth it. Suitable for families looking for scenic beauty.

Sapa Lake Stroll

Enjoy a leisurely walk around Sapa Lake, a peaceful oasis in the town center.

You can rent swan paddle boats (optional) or simply enjoy the fresh air and scenery.

A relaxing activity for the whole family before lunch. Kids might enjoy the paddle boats.

Lunch in Sapa Town

Have your final Sapa lunch at a restaurant in town.

Consider trying some local grilled specialties or Vietnamese hot pot.

Sapa Market & Souvenir Shopping

Spend some time at Sapa Market for last-minute souvenir shopping.

You can find beautiful handicrafts, textiles, and local products from the ethnic minority communities.

Bargaining is common and expected. Look for unique items like embroidered bags, silver jewelry, and traditional clothing.

Departure Preparation

Return to your hotel to collect your luggage and prepare for your departure from Sapa.

Ensure all your belongings are packed and ready for your onward journey, likely back to Hanoi.

Confirm your bus or train tickets and pick-up/drop-off points.