Introduction to Hanoi
Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam, is an ideal destination for French travellers discovering this country for the first time. With its unique blend of traditional culture and modernity, Hanoi offers visitors an unforgettable experience. In this 7-day itinerary, we will guide you through the main tourist sites, practical tips, and mistakes to avoid for a successful trip to Hanoi.
Day 1: Arrival in Hanoi and City Discovery
Upon arrival at Hanoi's international airport, you can take a taxi (around 15-20 euros) or a bus (around 2-3 euros) to reach your hotel. Once settled, start by exploring the city centre, including Hoan Kiem Square and Hanoi Lake. The indicative budget for a night in a Hanoi hotel can range from 20 to 50 euros. You can also find more affordable accommodations, such as youth hostels, for around 10-15 euros per night.
Day 2: Visit to Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and Presidential Palace
Start the day with a visit to the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, followed by a visit to the Presidential Palace. It is recommended to wear modest clothing and respect the visiting rules. The entrance fee for these attractions can range from 5 to 10 euros. You can also hire a local guide for around 20-30 euros per day.
Day 3: Exploring Hanoi's Old Town
Hanoi's Old Town is a historic district with many narrow streets and traditional shops. You can enjoy local dishes, such as the famous pho (around 3-5 euros per bowl) or banh mi sandwiches (around 2-3 euros per sandwich), for a budget of 5 to 10 euros per meal. Don't forget to try the local desserts, such as rice pancakes (around 1-2 euros per pancake).
Day 4: Excursion to Halong Bay
For a day, take an excursion to Halong Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Excursion prices can range from 50 to 100 euros per person, depending on the included services. You can also rent a boat for around 200-300 euros per day.
Estimated Budget for 7 Days in Hanoi
| Item | Estimated Price (in euros) |
|---|---|
| Accommodation (7 nights) | 150-350 |
| Food (7 days) | 100-200 |
| Transport (taxi, bus, etc.) | 20-50 |
| Attractions and Visits | 50-100 |
| Excursion to Halong Bay | 50-100 |
| Total | 420-900 |
Practical Tips
- Make sure you have a valid visa for Vietnam. Visa requirements may change, so it is recommended to check official sources.
- Attraction and transport prices may vary, so it's a good idea to check prices in advance.
- Avoid drinking tap water and prefer bottled water or drinking fountains.
It is essential to respect local customs and visiting rules for attractions. Prices and opening hours may vary, so it's a good idea to check information in advance.