Day 1
Xôi Mây
Open in Google Maps
Cafe Dinh
Open in Google Maps
Phở bưng Hàng Trống
Open in Google Maps
The Haflington
Open in Google MapsDay 2
Bún chả 74 Hàng Quạt
Open in Google MapsDay 3
Bánh Cuốn Gia Truyền Thanh Vân
Open in Google Maps
C.O.C Legacy Specialty Coffee
Open in Google Maps+ 24 more spots in the full guide
City Tips
- Overview: Hanoi is atmospheric, layered, and rewards slow exploration. The Old Quarter is dense and chaotic; French Quarter is wider and calmer. The city runs on motorbikes—crossing streets is an art form (walk slowly, steadily, let traffic flow around you). Best experienced on foot, with plenty of café stops. **Visas:** US citizens need a visa for Vietnam — there's no exemption. The easiest option is the e-visa, which you apply for in advance at evisa.gov.vn. It costs $25 for a single entry or $50 for multiple entries, takes 3–5 business days to process, and is valid for up to 90 days. Make sure your passport is valid for at least 6 months beyond your entry date.
- Famous for: - Phở (pho) and bún chả (the dish Obama ate). - Egg coffee (cà phê trứng). - French colonial architecture. - Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum. - Water puppets. - Old Quarter's 36 streets (each named for its historic trade). - Bia hoi corners (fresh draft beer for ~25 cents).
- Transportation: **GRAB**: Essential—use for cars and motorbikes (Grab Bike is cheap and fast). Walking: Best way to explore Old Quarter (just watch for motorbikes on sidewalks). Cyclos: Tourist experience, negotiate price first. Motorbike rental: Only if experienced—traffic is intense.