How to Plan a Trip to Hanoi
The complete 2026 guide — flights, hotels, things to do and airport transfers, all in one place. Everything a first-time visitor to Vietnam needs.
Your 4-step Hanoi plan
Step 1 — Book flights to HAN
Noi Bai Airport (HAN) is the main gateway to Hanoi. Compare fares across major airlines and OTAs before locking a date.
See flight deals to HANStep 2 — Pick a neighborhood
Base yourself in Hanoi Old Quarter (36 Streets) for the best first-time visit — Each medieval street named after the guild it once housed — Silk Street, Paper Street, Tin Street.
Where to stay in HanoiStep 3 — Plan your itinerary
Start with Hoan Kiem Lake & Ngoc Son Temple, then build outward. Most first-time visitors need 3-5 days to see the highlights of Hanoi.
Things to do in HanoiStep 4 — Sort your airport transfer
Bus 86 (to Tran Quang Khai / Old Quarter) is $1.50 and takes 60 min. Pre-book a private transfer for stress-free arrival.
HAN arrival guideBefore you book — visa check
Same Vietnam e-Visa as HCMC — apply at evisa.xuatnhapcanh.gov.vn. 45-day single entry, $25.