One day in Hanoi – What is the top thing to do, visit, and eat? When it comes to Michelin, most travelers are already familiar with and trust restaurants that have received this prestigious recognition. That’s why this guide will suggest a one-day itinerary in Hanoi, featuring Michelin-recommended spots to ensure you have the best culinary experience while exploring the landmarks in the capital of Vietnam.
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Morning: Start one day in Hanoi with Pho & Explore landmarks
If you have one day in Hanoi, where to start? To enjoy this city like a local, begin your morning with a bowl of pho to fuel your day. A Michelin suggestion for this is Pho Bo Au Trieu, which earned a Bib Gourmand title in 2024. This small eatery is tucked away in the Old Quarter, with no visible signage, making it a bit tricky to find. However, just follow the scent of fragrant broth and look for the bustling crowd in the early morning — you’ll know you’re in the right place. A bowl of half-done and well-done beef pho served with crispy fried dough sticks will surely surprise you.
Tip: Arrive before 9:00 AM to make sure you don’t miss out!
The first stop on your one-day Hanoi itinerary with Michelin is Ho Chi Minh’s Mausoleum, a place of deep reverence for the Vietnamese people. If possible, arrive at 6:30 AM to witness the parade and flag raising ceremony. But if waking up early isn’t an option, don’t worry. There is still much to explore inside. The mausoleum holds immense historical significance, as it was built at the site where Ho Chi Minh proclaimed Vietnam’s independence in 1945.
Within the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum complex, don’t miss One Pillar Pagoda, recognized by the Asia Book of Records as “Asia’s most unique architectural pagoda”. As its name suggests, the pagoda is built on a single pillar, inspired by a blooming lotus rising from the water, symbolizing purity and the noble essence of Buddhism.
To wrap up your morning, stop by Hoa Lo Prison and discover the prison’s life during the war. In the 19th century, the French colonial authorities built Hoa Lo Prison, turning it into a key detention center for Vietnam. It was one of the largest prisons established by the French in Indochina at the time. Today, only about 2,000 square meters of the prison remain preserved and open to visitors. Despite this, Hoa Lo still evokes the harsh atmosphere of prison life. At the same time, it stands as a testament to the resilience and indomitable spirit of Vietnamese soldiers.
Summary of Michelin-recommended one-day Hanoi itinerary:
- Breakfast – Pho Bo Au Trieu: 34 Au Trieu, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi
- Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum & One Pillar Pagoda: 01 Hung Vuong, Ba Dinh, Hanoi
- Hoa Lo Prison: 01 Hoa Lo, Hoan Kiém, Hanoi
Lunch: Vietnamese Catfish
For lunch in Hanoi one day, follow Michelin’s recommendation and try Cha Ca Thang Long, a Bib Gourmand restaurant in 2024. This Vietnamese catfish from Hanoi features fresh fish marinated with rich spices and cooked with aromatic herbs. It is served with rice noodles, fresh greens, and fermented shrimp paste (mam tom). If you’re not familiar with its strong flavor, you can opt for fish sauce instead. The combination of crispy fish, crunchy herbs, and the sweet-savory dipping sauce makes for a truly unique culinary experience for one day in Hanoi.
After lunch, enjoying a cup of coffee is a must. Let’s head to Habakuk Fine Coffee & Bistro, a Michelin Bib Gourmand spot, perfect for a one-day itinerary in Hanoi. Habakuk takes pride in using high-quality coffee beans, ensuring a rich and aromatic brew in every cup. For those who prefer non-caffeinated options, this coffeeshop also offers a delightful selection of fruit teas and other beverages. Tucked away in a small alley, Habakuk exudes a peaceful and cozy atmosphere, offering a quiet retreat amidst the bustling energy of Hanoi.
Summary of Michelin-recommended one-day Hanoi itinerary:
- Habakuk Fine Coffee x Bistro: 04 Phan Huy Chu alley, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi
- Cha Ca Thang Long: 06B Duong Thanh, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi
Afternoon: Stroll around the Old Quarter – A must during one day in Hanoi
After lunch, walk through Hanoi’s Old Quarter, where history and modern life intertwine in a chaotic yet charming way. As you explore the streets, you’ll notice many old buildings, featuring yellow-painted walls and green wooden shutters, a distinct influence of French colonial architecture. Wander through the maze of narrow streets, each named after the traditional craft once sold there.
At the same time, don’t be too surprised by Vietnam’s traffic. It may seem chaotic, but it follows its own unwritten rules. Since motorbikes are the primary mode of transportation in Vietnam, the streets are always packed with them.
Tip: When crossing the street, don’t hesitate! Simply raise your hand, walk steadily, and observe—the vehicles will naturally adjust and make way for you.
While strolling through the Old Quarter, if you’re looking for a refreshing treat, stop by Hang Bac Street to try chè (sweet soup), a famous Vietnamese dessert! Known as a snacking paradise, this spot offers over 30 different types of hot and cold sweet soups. No matter the weather during your one-day visit to Hanoi, this is always a great place to enjoy a local favorite.
Don’t forget to visit St. Joseph’s Cathedral, one of Hanoi’s most iconic sites. Built in the late 19th century, this neo-Gothic church starkly contrasts with the predominantly Buddhist cultural landscape in this country.
Summary of Michelin-recommended one-day Hanoi itinerary:
- Old Quarter Hanoi
- Che Huong Hai: 93 Hang Bac, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi
- St. Joseph’s Cathedral: 40 Nha Chung, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi
Evening: Fine Dining – Night walk around Hoan Kiem Lake
To cap off one day in Hanoi with Michelin suggestions, indulge in a refined dinner at Chapter Dining. Recognized as “Michelin Selected” in 2024, this restaurant offers a meticulously crafted Chapter menu of over 10 dishes, featuring premium local ingredients from northern Vietnam. Beyond just savoring the flavors, each dish comes with a postcard, providing insights into its ingredients and cultural significance. This fine dining experience at Chapter beautifully encapsulates not only your time in Hanoi but also the essence of northern Vietnamese cuisine.
After dinner, let’s visit Hoan Kiem Lake at night. Embrace the tranquility that contrasts with the city’s usual hustle and bustle. The lake’s calm waters reflect the striking Huc Bridge, glowing in vibrant red, creating a mesmerizing scene.
If you’d like to extend your one day in Hanoi, head to The Haflington, ranked among Asia’s 50 Best Bars, right in the Old Quarter. Unlike the lively bars on Ta Hien Street, The Haflington exudes a classic, elegant, and refined ambiance. The bar’s dinosaur skeletons hanging from the ceiling and its polished wooden decor evoke the charm of a European museum. Their menu focuses on classic cocktails, ensuring that each drink preserves its original, authentic flavors.
Summary of Michelin-recommended one-day Hanoi itinerary:
- Chapter Dining: 12C Chan Cam, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi
- The Haflington: 94 Hang Ma, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi
- Hoan Kiem Lake
Here is the one-day itinerary in Hanoi, featuring Michelin Guide’s recommended restaurants. If you have more days to explore, you can save some destinations for later to suit your travel rhythm, and fully immerse yourself in the beauty of Vietnam’s capital.
