After a deep, much-needed sleep, our second day in Hanoi started even earlier than the first—we woke up at 5 am, and Andi’s first words were, “I’m hungry!” Typical. Luckily, Hanoi never really sleeps, and neither do its food stalls. We wandered into the early morning stillness and found a tiny spot serving up a steaming bowl of pho (is there a better way to wake up?). Just as we finished, the aroma of fresh baguettes lured us to a nearby banh mi stand. Second breakfast? Why not—vacation rules apply!
With our stomachs (very) happy, we grabbed a Grab car and zipped off to Tran Quoc Pagoda. The city was still shaking off its sleep, and the air by West Lake felt especially fresh. Tran Quoc, Hanoi’s oldest Buddhist pagoda, is striking with its red spire and tranquil lakeside setting. We wandered among the bonsai trees and lotus ponds, soaking up the peaceful morning vibes. It’s easy to see why this place is a local favorite for quiet reflection.
From there, we hit the pavement and strolled towards the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum. It’s an impressive sight—massive, solemn, and surrounded by perfectly manicured gardens. Ho Chi Minh, or “Uncle Ho,” is considered the father of modern Vietnam. He led the country’s fight for independence and is still deeply revered. Although he wished for a simple cremation, his body now lies here in an imposing granite tomb, visited daily by locals and travelers alike. There’s a real sense of respect and history in the air—almost everyone speaks in hushed tones as they approach.
After all that history (and walking), we needed a pick-me-up. Hanoi’s coffee game is legendary, so we ducked into a tiny café for a glass of ca phe sua da—Vietnamese iced coffee with condensed milk. I swear, one sip and you’re ready to conquer the world (or at least another round of sightseeing).
Fueled by caffeine, we set foot in the Temple of Literature. This place is a true gem—and easily one of our top highlights in Hanoi. Initially built in 1070 and dedicated to Confucius, the temple became Vietnam’s first national university. Lush gardens and shaded walkways surround the peaceful courtyards, ancient stone turtles, and beautiful pavilions. It’s easy to imagine ancient scholars wandering here, books in hand, preparing for their imperial exams. Even with the crowds, a sense of calm and inspiration lingers. No wonder this is one of the most visited spots in the city.
We returned to Train Street by mid-afternoon, determined to catch the train thundering through those iconic, impossibly narrow lanes. Mission accomplished! We found the perfect vantage point just as the train rumbled by, squeezing past houses and cafés with barely a breath to spare. It’s one of those Hanoi moments that’s both nerve-racking and exhilarating.
Soon, there will be a video we recorded at the train street.
As we write this, we’re packing up for tomorrow’s early start—Ninh Binh awaits! But before that, we’re off to wander through the Old Quarter after dark. The promise of glowing lanterns, busy streets, and maybe one last banh mi is too good to resist.
Hanoi, you’ve been a whirlwind—can’t wait to see what’s next!
Essential & Fun Facts About Hanoi
1. City of Lakes:
Hanoi is sometimes called the “City of Lakes.” The most famous is Hoan Kiem Lake, right in the city center, but there are around 20 lakes scattered throughout, adding a calm vibe to the urban energy.
2. Motorbike Madness:
There are millions (literally!) of motorbikes in Hanoi. Crossing the street is an adventure—just start walking slowly and confidently, and the bikes will magically flow around you!
3. French Influence:
Hanoi’s architecture is an eclectic mix: traditional Vietnamese, French colonial (think yellow-painted villas, grand boulevards), and Soviet-style blocks. The baguette obsession? That’s the French legacy too—hello, banh mi!
4. Egg Coffee Origin:
Egg coffee (cà phê trứng) was invented in Hanoi in the 1940s, when milk was scarce. It’s a must-try: sweet, creamy, and totally unique.
5. Street Food Paradise:
Some of Vietnam’s best street food is in Hanoi—bun cha (grilled pork with noodles), pho (beef noodle soup), and bun rieu (crab noodle soup) are local legends. Don’t be afraid of tiny plastic stools and bustling sidewalks!
6. Ancient Yet Youthful:
Hanoi is over 1,000 years old (founded in 1010!), but it feels strikingly young thanks to the student population and buzzing nightlife.
7. Old Quarter Charm:
The Old Quarter is a maze of 36 streets, each named after the trade that once flourished there (e.g., Silver Street, Paper Street). It’s chaotic, colorful, and endlessly photogenic.
8. Train Street:
Hanoi’s “Train Street” is world-famous—twice daily, a train squeezes through a narrow alley just inches from houses and cafes. Timing is everything if you want a photo (and a coffee with a side of adrenaline).
9. Early Risers:
Locals love mornings—lakeside tai chi, joggers, and breakfast stalls are all action-packed before 7am.
10. Temple of Literature:
It’s Vietnam’s first university (founded in 1076), and a peaceful escape with beautiful courtyards and ancient stone steles.
11. Four Seasons:
Unlike much of Vietnam, Hanoi gets all four seasons! Winters can be surprisingly chilly, and autumn is famously beautiful.
12. Water Puppet Theater:
Hanoi is the birthplace of traditional water puppetry, a unique and entertaining art form you won’t find anywhere else.
13. Budget-Friendly:
It’s easy to eat well, get around, and see the sights without breaking the bank. Hanoi is a backpacker (and foodie) paradise.
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