Between the tree-lined streets, peaceful lakes and familiar eateries, Hanoi opens up to first-time visitors a feeling that is both familiar and very new. Hanoi tour itinerary built by Oravina Travel will take you through the most beautiful spots in the capital’s daily life. Read on to start your journey to discover Hanoi in the most complete way.
Hanoi and the moments that linger in people’s hearts
Hanoi makes people feel so nostalgic
No one can truly explain why Hanoi is a place that makes people feel so nostalgic. Those who were born and raised here sometimes have no answer, while visitors who only pass by a few times often carry with them a lingering sense of attachment when they leave the city.
Hanoi feels like it is wrapped in many layers and each moment of the day reveals a different kind of beauty. The afternoon here is gentle and romantic, like a fairytale painting. Cycling around West Lake in the cool breeze, watching the water reflect the golden glow of the sunset, then stopping at a lakeside lemon tea stand to enjoy a refreshing drink, these simple experiences feel unmistakably “Hanoi,” and they make anyone want to return.
Hanoi at night
And when “the streets light up, we dress up,” Hanoi transforms into a completely different scene. Golden lights stretch along the roads, the Old Quarter becomes livelier and tall buildings shine brightly, reflecting the rush of the evening commute. With just a light T-shirt and a comfortable pair of shoes, you’re ready to explore the city’s nighttime charm.
One-day Hanoi tour itinerary for first-time visitors
Planning a one-day Hanoi tour itinerary for first-time visitors can be overwhelming, especially with so many cultural sites, local experiences and iconic landmarks to choose from. That’s why Oravina Travel has carefully researched and curated a balanced, comfortable schedule ensuring you can discover the essence of Hanoi in just one day without feeling rushed or pressured.
Day 1 – Hanoi full-day city tour
The One Pillar Pagoda
Begin your Hanoi tour itinerary with a full-day exploration of the city’s most iconic landmarks:
- 08:00 – 08:30: The driver picks you up from your hotel to start the tour.
- 08:45: Visit Tran Quoc Pagoda, the oldest pagoda in Hanoi, peacefully located on West Lake.
- 09:30: Explore the Ho Chi Minh Complex, including the Presidential Palace area, Ho Chi Minh’s Stilt House and the One Pillar Pagoda.
- 11:15: Learn about the cultural diversity of Vietnam’s 54 ethnic groups at the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology (Women’s Museum on Mondays).
- 12:15: Enjoy a Vietnamese lunch at a local restaurant and take a short break.
- 14:00: Visit the Temple of Literature, Vietnam’s first national university.
- 15:30: Stop by Hoa Lo Prison Museum, which preserves significant historical stories from wartime.
- 16:30: Return to your hotel. In the evening, you may choose optional activities such as a Water Puppet Show, visiting Train Street, or enjoying the lively Ta Hien Beer Street.
Day 2 – Dental Care at Dr.Smile (Hanoi)
Dental Care at Dr.Smile
As part of your Hanoi tour itinerary, the second day highlights professional dental care at Dr.Smile, an easy introduction to dental tourism in Vietnam.
- 08:00: The driver picks you up from your hotel in the Old Quarter and transfers you to Dr.Smile Dental Clinic for your dental care in Vietnam experience.
- 08:30: Begin with a full dental check-up, consultation and gentle cleaning to prepare for treatment.
- 09:00: Continue with an advanced teeth whitening session lasting 2-3 hours, followed by personalized aftercare guidance.
- 11:30: Return to your hotel and enjoy a relaxing afternoon exploring the Old Quarter or resting after your dental treatment.
Note: Dental services are flexible and optional. If guests do not choose a treatment, related inclusions such as X-ray or hotel pickup will not apply.
Some “fun facts” to help tourists understand Hanoi better
Hanoi is not only attractive because of its famous attractions or familiar dishes that appear in every Hanoi tour itinerary. This city also carries many unique cultural elements of daily life, creating an identity that visitors easily remember.
36 streets and the story behind their names
A system of streets with a history of hundreds of years
Hanoi’s Old Quarter is known for “36 streets”, a system of streets with a history of hundreds of years, each street was once associated with a traditional craft. Street names reflect the occupations that once existed here, for example, Hang Bac is where silversmiths make jewelry; Hang Thiec specializes in making tin products; Hang Ma sells ceremonial items and decorations; Hang Dao dyes and sells fabrics; Hang Chieu produces sedge mats…
Although Hanoi has modernized, many traditional crafts have faded, yet the old street structure and naming system remain preserved. This is why the Old Quarter is an essential stop in any Hanoi tour itinerary.
>> See more: Unforgettable Ninh Binh day trip from Hanoi experience
Iced tea culture and typical sidewalk shops
Iced tea culture in Hanoi
Walking along the streets of Hanoi, visitors can easily come across simple iced tea shops with a few low plastic chairs. Iced tea is not a special drink, but it is a familiar part of people’s daily life. Hanoians sit at iced tea shops to rest, chat quickly, work online or simply observe the street.
Iced tea on the sidewalk offers a close look at the local lifestyle: not fussy, not formal, but always warm and friendly. For international travelers, this is an interesting cultural experience that naturally complements any Hanoi tour itinerary.
The morning “pho routine” – A signature of Hanoi cuisine
Pho is considered a typical breakfast dish of Hanoians. Many pho shops open from dawn and are always crowded with customers, from office workers to the elderly or tourists. The flavor of Hanoi pho stands out with clear, light, low-fat broth; soft pho noodles; Carefully prepared beef or chicken; served with green onions and lime and chili to taste.
Pho Hanoi
A day exploring Hanoi may be short, but the experiences left behind are long-lasting. Oravina Travel’s Hanoi tour itinerary is designed to bring visitors the most authentic, complete and enjoyable moments. If you are planning your first trip to the capital, please contact us or leave your information so we can support you in more detail.
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