How to Spend 24 Hours in Hanoi (Yes, We Tried It!)
Think 24 hours isn’t enough to explore Hanoi? Think again. From buzzing street corners and iconic landmarks to legendary local eats and a sleeper train finale, here’s how to turn one day in Vietnam’s capital into a memory-packed adventure.
8:30am - Arrival in Hanoi
Touch down at Noi Bai International Airport and breeze through immigration in around 30 minutes (yes, really) with the airport Fast-Track service. (P.S. it's also available in other Vietnam airports, just search fast-track service on Klook!)
Klook Tip: Remember to book your Fast-Track service in advance to avoid long hours of wait (hearsay it's up to 3 hours! 🤯) Don't forget to book it for departure too.
Choose from:
- Basic (Immigration only)
- Basic (Screening + Immigration)
- Last-minute Basic (Immigration only) - Same day confirmation
- Premium (Immigration + Baggage Support + Vehicle Escort)
Once you’ve collected your bags, meet your driver (if you've booked the premium Fast-Track service!) and head straight into the city. This is your first chance to soak it all in — motorbikes weaving through traffic, colourful street signs, and that unmistakable buzz that says, welcome to Hanoi.
10:00am - Explore Old Quarter
Welcome to the heart of Hanoi. The Old Quarter is a maze of narrow streets where every turn leads to something interesting — from family-run shops and hidden temples to street food stalls sending out mouth-watering smells.
Each street was once dedicated to a trade (silver, silk, paper, you name it), and today it’s a lively mix of old-school charm and everyday chaos. Wander, browse, snack, stop for photos — this is the kind of place where getting lost is half the fun.
📸 Don’t miss: Colourful shophouses, balconies packed with plants, and endless street scenes worth capturing.
11:00am - Egg Coffee Break at Café Giang
Before lunch (and before the heat really kicks in), make a quick pit stop at Café Giang, the birthplace of Hanoi’s famous egg coffee. This humble café has been serving its iconic drink since the 1940s, and it’s a rite of passage for first-time visitors.
Don’t let the name scare you — the coffee is rich, creamy, and dessert-like, topped with a fluffy layer made from whipped egg yolk, sugar, and condensed milk. Think tiramisu… but in a cup. Kids? Maybe not. Caffeine lovers? Absolutely yes.
☕ How to enjoy it: Sip it slowly, people-watch, and soak in the old-school vibes before diving back into the city.
12:00pm — Lunch Break, Hanoi Style
After all that wandering, it’s time to eat with a view. Head to Lake View Side Restaurant (just a short stroll from the Old Quarter) for a relaxing lunch overlooking peaceful water and leafy scenery — a refreshing contrast to the city’s lively streets.
Here, you can savour classic Vietnamese dishes like fresh spring rolls, grilled lemongrass chicken, and hearty noodle bowls, all served with breezy lake views. It’s the perfect midday pause: great food, plenty of shade, and a moment to recharge before the afternoon adventures kick in.
🌿 Why it's a must-try: Scenic setting + delicious local eats = a refreshing tempo reset for your perfect 24-hour Hanoi day
2:00pm — Step Back in Time at Hoa Lo Prison
After lunch, slow things down with a visit to Hoa Lo Prison, also known as Maison Centrale. This historic site offers a deeper look into Vietnam’s past, from colonial times to the struggles for independence.
As you walk through preserved cells and exhibits, you’ll gain a new appreciation for the country’s resilience and history. It’s thought-provoking, educational, and a meaningful contrast to the lively streets outside.
And don’t worry about the language — you can enjoy live translation with the headphones provided, making it easy to follow along and fully immerse yourself in the stories shared.
⏳ Time needed: Around 60 minutes.
3:00pm — Train Street Thrills
Next stop: one of Hanoi’s most talked-about spots — Train Street. Grab a seat at a trackside café, order a drink, and wait as anticipation builds. When the train finally rushes through, just inches away, you’ll understand why this experience is so iconic.
It’s exciting, a little nerve-wracking, and totally unforgettable.
🚆 Just remember to follow staff instructions and local guidelines for a safe visit!
4:00pm — Visit the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum
Head over to the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, one of Vietnam’s most important landmarks, and pay your respects at the final resting place of Vietnam’s beloved leader. The atmosphere here is calm and respectful, offering a quiet pause from the city’s constant movement.
Stroll around the grounds, admire the grand architecture, and take in the significance of the site — even a short visit adds meaningful context to your Hanoi experience.
5:00pm — A Peek into Local Life at Hà Nội Mới
After visiting the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, take a short stop to learn about everyday Hanoi through Hà Nội Mới, the city’s official newspaper. More than just headlines, Hà Nội Mới reflects how locals stay informed — covering everything from culture and community to city life and current affairs.
It’s a simple but interesting way to understand Hanoi beyond attractions and landmarks, offering context into what matters to people who actually live here. Think of it as a quick cultural pause before easing into the evening portion of your day.
📰 Why it’s worth it: A glimpse into real, everyday Hanoi — no crowds, just culture.
5:45pm — Golden Hour at St. Joseph’s Cathedral
As the afternoon light softens, make your way to St. Joseph’s Cathedral. This striking neo-Gothic church is especially beautiful at sunset, when the surrounding streets come alive with locals and travellers alike.
Grab a coffee or try Hanoi’s famous egg coffee at a nearby café and enjoy some laid-back people-watching.
☕ Vibe check: Relaxed, charming, and perfect for recharging before dinner.
7:00pm — Dinner & One Last Feast
Time to refuel with something different that still feels like home. Head to d’Lions Restaurant, a cozy halal gem perched inside Cosiana Hotel — complete with a warm atmosphere and views of Hanoi Railway Station below. 🍽️✨
Here, you’ll find bold Singaporean and Malaysian classics crafted with quality halal ingredients, from mouthwatering Singapore Chili Crab and fragrant Hainanese chicken rice to nasi lemak, curry laksa, mee goreng and more. Whether you’re craving rich coconut curries, spice‑balanced noodles, or crispy satay, it’s a delicious way to wind down your day in Hanoi with flavours that feel both familiar and exciting.
9:00pm — All Aboard the Sleeper Train
Finish your 24-hour Hanoi adventure by hopping onto a sleeper train at Hanoi Railway Station to your next destination. It’s practical, uniquely local, and a memorable way to travel onward while you rest.
Settle into your berth, replay the day’s highlights, and fall asleep knowing you’ve squeezed every drop out of your time in Hanoi.
🚆 Final tip: Bring snacks, comfy clothes, and your camera — you’ll want to remember this ride!
Our Final Thoughts... Can it be done?
24 hours in Hanoi might sound ambitious, but with a little planning (and a lot of curiosity), it’s more than doable! From history and culture to food and fun, this city delivers big experiences in a short time.
Ready to plan your own whirlwind Hanoi adventure? Book airport transfers, attractions, tours, and transport on Klook — because every hour counts. 😉
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