If you have just 48 hours to explore Hanoi, the Michelin Guide provides a perfect itinerary for experiencing the old town, savoring exquisite cuisine, and visiting the city’s parks and historical landmarks.
Hanoi, according to the Michelin Guide, is a vibrant mix of history, culture, and modern elegance. The city’s dynamic streets, teeming with motorbikes and street vendors, contrast with the serene lakes and ancient temples, offering a unique blend of energy and tranquility.
Day 1: Embracing Tradition and History
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Egg coffeeMorning
Start your day with a leisurely walk through the old town. Enjoy a coffee at one of the many cafes on Trieu Viet Vuong Street in the Hai Ba Trung district and soak in the lively atmosphere. For a touch of luxury and history, try the egg coffee at the Sofitel Metropole Legend Hanoi hotel, a landmark since 1901.
For an early morning treat, head to Pho Bo Au Trieu for a bowl of pho, a local favorite. This restaurant is renowned for its rich, fatty bone broth, simmered for 10 hours—a recipe that has been perfected over four generations.
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Photo: Screen captureNoon
For lunch, visit Bun Cha Lien Huong in the Hai Ba Trung district, famously known as “Bun cha Obama” after the former US President dined here. The “Obama Combo” includes a seafood spring roll, a special bowl of vermicelli, and a bottle of Hanoi beer. Bun cha is a quintessential Hanoi dish, featuring a delicious mix of pork, meat patties, herbs, and lettuce. Be sure to try the succulent pork skewers for a complete experience.
Afternoon
The Michelin Guide recommends exploring the ancient architecture along Tran Hung Dao, Ly Thuong Kiet, and Hai Ba Trung streets. Visit the Vietnamese Women’s Museum or Hoa Lo Prison for a brief but insightful look into the city’s history.
Evening
For dinner, enjoy the ambiance of 1946 Cua Bac restaurant, housed in a striking yellow-green building. Delight in their signature dishes like fried crab and porridge hot pot.
Day 2: Parks, Gardens, and Cultural Heritage
Morning
Begin your second day with a visit to Thong Nhat Park, one of central Hanoi’s largest parks. Immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere as locals engage in various activities.
Noon
For lunch, dine at the Michelin-starred Azabu restaurant located on the second floor of the Hotel du Parc. The value menu offers a delightful selection of sushi and sashimi dishes.
Afternoon
Admire the Hanoi Opera House, an iconic structure with bold French architecture, situated southeast of Hoan Kiem Lake. Nearby, the National Museum of History houses a vast collection of artifacts that showcase Vietnam’s rich past.
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Hanoi Opera House. Credit: Olivier OchanineEvening
Conclude your trip with a meal at Habakuk, a Bib Gourmand restaurant known for its beautifully presented dishes at reasonable prices. If you wish to indulge in a Michelin Star experience, visit Hibana by Koki. Chef Hiroshi Yamaguchi crafts dishes with complex flavors using premium ingredients flown in twice weekly from Japan, including abalone, spiny lobster, sea urchin, Yaeyama Kyori beef, and Hokkaido hairy crab.
Night
End your last night in Hanoi with creative cocktails at Divas Lounge, located in the Capella Hanoi hotel. This stylish bar offers an art deco “dream” setting where guests can enjoy Vietnamese-inspired cocktails, tapas, and observe the rhythm of Hanoi life from the courtyard—a perfect farewell to this enchanting city.