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Review Of Grant’s First 24h In Hanoi - What To See?

My name is Grant, and as a passionate traveler, Hanoi had always been on my bucket list. On my most recent journey to Vietnam, I challenged myself to experience 24h in Hanoi. My intention was not just sightseeing, but truly immersing myself in the city’s vibrant atmosphere, local cuisine, and fascinating history. Thanks to the expertise of a trusted Vietnam travel agency, I followed a perfectly designed itinerary that made every moment count. Those 24h in Hanoi turned out to be one of the most memorable experiences of my journey.

I. Arrival in Hanoi: the first impressions

I arrived in Hanoi early in the morning, still a little tired from the flight, but instantly overwhelmed by a mix of excitement and curiosity. As soon as I stepped out of the airport, I felt the city’s intensity and unique rhythm, as if Hanoi itself was welcoming me and inviting me into its stories and surprises. Every step promised a discovery, and I could already sense that my 24h in Hanoi would be intense and unforgettable.

To reach my hotel in the city center, I took a taxi, quick and convenient, which gave me my first opportunity to watch the city come to life outside the window. After checking in, I dropped off my bag and headed straight back out, ready to wander the streets and embrace the unexpected at every corner. There was no time to waste: my 24h in Hanoi had officially begun, and I was determined to make the most of it.

II. 24h in Hanoi: what to do to miss nothing?

1. Morning: the soul of Hanoi

• The Old Quarter

I began my day in the Old Quarter, the true beating heart of Hanoi. The narrow, lively streets immediately drew me in, and I was struck by the contrast between the constant flow of scooters and the peaceful atmosphere of small cafés tucked between traditional houses. Colorful stalls overflowed with fresh fruit, fragrant spices, and handcrafted souvenirs, while the aromas of local dishes and pastries filled the air.

Every street corner seemed to tell a story, and every detail slowly turned into a lasting memory. In just a few hours, I understood why the Old Quarter is an essential stop for anyone wanting to feel the soul of the city, and why my 24h in Hanoi would remain forever etched in my heart.

• The famous train street

I then made my way to the famous Train Street, located in the Old Quarter. The railway tracks ran just a few centimeters away from houses, cafés, and street food stalls, creating an incredibly unique setting. The atmosphere felt both calm and vibrant at the same time, as locals went about their daily routines just inches from the rails.

As the train suddenly appeared, my heart started racing. It rushed through the narrow corridor at full speed, sliding between the walls with impressive precision. This extraordinary moment - both thrilling and fascinating, quickly became one of the most unforgettable memories of my 24h in Hanoi.

• Hoa Lo prison

To make the most of my 24h in Hanoi, I couldn’t miss a visit to Hoa Lo Prison, an essential site for understanding the city’s history. Walking through the former cells, I studied historical photographs and read powerful testimonies that told stories of courage and resilience. Each room revealed a deeper layer of Vietnam’s past and helped me better grasp the struggles the country has faced.

This visit deeply moved me. It was a moment of reflection that added meaning to my journey and offered a fascinating insight into Vietnamese history, making my 24h in Hanoi even more memorable.

2. Afternoon: discovering Vietnamese history

• Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum

During the afternoon of my 24h in Hanoi, I visited the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, one of the most iconic landmarks in Vietnam. The atmosphere was solemn and almost silent, creating a powerful contrast with the city’s usual bustle. Visitors moved slowly and quietly, showing deep respect as they passed through the site.

Even as a short-term traveler, this experience left a strong impression on me. Standing there, I gained a deeper understanding of Vietnam’s history and the enduring legacy of Ho Chi Minh, adding an important cultural dimension to my 24h in Hanoi.

• Vietnam military history museum

I then headed to the Vietnam Military History Museum, where I learned about the country’s struggles and triumphs through historical artifacts, uniforms, and period photographs. The visit felt both intense and highly informative, offering valuable context to Vietnam’s past and its resilience through decades of conflict.

For time-conscious travelers like me, a guided tour organized by a Vietnam travel agency is an ideal option. It allows visitors to fully appreciate the museum and gain a clear understanding of Vietnamese history, making the most of a limited schedule, especially when experiencing 24h in Hanoi.

3. Evening in Hanoi: when the city lights up

• The water puppet show

At the beginning of the evening, I attended a traditional water puppet show, one of Vietnam’s oldest art forms. The scenes depicted rural life, ancient legends, and lively village festivals. Musicians performed live, filling the space with traditional melodies, while the puppets glided effortlessly across the water with remarkable grace.

The performance felt timeless and enchanting. For a moment, I was transported into a poetic world where history, culture, and storytelling came together in a truly captivating way.

• The weekend night market

Luckily, I arrived on a Saturday. The city center had completely transformed: the roads around Hoan Kiem Lake were closed to traffic, giving the space back to pedestrians. The night market came alive with rows of stalls selling souvenirs, clothing, and an irresistible variety of street food. The atmosphere felt festive and welcoming, almost magical.

I walked around the lake at a relaxed pace, watching families, couples, and street musicians bring the area to life. In that moment, Hanoi revealed a softer, more peaceful side of its urban rhythm, an unforgettable way to end the day.

• Ta Hien street

To conclude my evening, I went to Ta Hien street, famously known as “Beer street.” The terraces were overflowing, laughter echoed through the streets, and music resonated late into the night. The lively atmosphere perfectly captured the spirit of Hanoi.

Sitting on a small plastic stool with a local beer in hand, I savored the moment, reflecting on my whirlwind adventure. After a full day planned with the help of a Vietnam travel agency, my 24h in Hanoi had come to a joyful and memorable end, a perfect way to experience the city’s energy, culture, and charm.

III. Hanoi food culture: a journey within a journey

In the Old Quarter, I discovered small local restaurants where every dish seemed crafted to bring joy to passersby. I tried the “Pho,” a fragrant broth with rice noodles and fresh herbs, which warmed me up in the morning and gave me my first real taste of Hanoi.

For lunch, I discovered “Bun cha,” a dish of grilled pork served with vermicelli noodles and fresh herbs. The place was modest, but the warm welcome and very affordable price made the experience even more authentic.

As I wandered through the alleys, I stopped for an egg coffee. This surprising combination of strong coffee and sweet, frothy egg made me smile. I also tried a “Banh mi,” the famous Vietnamese sandwich filled with meat, fresh vegetables, and aromatic herbs. This sweet-and-savory duo was the perfect pause before the final stage of my day.

Finally, during my 24h in Hanoi, I chose to taste an evening specialty that is a must: “Cha ca La Vong,” grilled fish with dill and spices, served with vermicelli, fresh herbs, and peanuts. Each bite took me on a journey through Hanoi’s culinary tradition and perfectly concluded my intense day.

IV. Essential tips for time‑pressed travelers

During my 24h in Hanoi, I quickly realized that good planning makes all the difference. Here are my tips to make the most of the city, especially if it’s your first time in Vietnam.

• Transportation: I mostly walked around the city center to explore the Old Quarter, Hoan Kiem lake, and the local markets. Walking allowed me to stop whenever something caught my attention. For longer trips between tourist sites, I used Grab, the local ride‑hailing app, which is fast, convenient, and safe.
• Safety: Hanoi is generally safe, but there are a few key points to keep in mind. Scooters are everywhere, so it’s important to move calmly and predictably. Pickpockets exist, especially in tourist areas and markets, so using a bag that can be securely closed in front is recommended.
• Guided tours: Consider short guided visits when necessary, especially for historical landmarks such as the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum or the city’s museums.

In conclusion, my 24h in Hanoi were intense, enriching, and profoundly human. I laughed, learned, tasted, and observed. Each moment leaves a lasting impression. Of course, a single day wasn’t enough to see everything, but it was more than enough to fall in love with the city, feel its energy, and gain a glimpse into its history and culture. For travelers with limited time, I highly recommend planning your day with the Vietnam travel agency Autour Asia. Their expertise helps optimize visits, save time, and fully enjoy the city, even in just 24h in Hanoi.