A destination where energy pulses through every street, Hanoi is a dream for travellers. Scooters whizz past colonial buildings, incense drifts from ancient temples and street-side kitchens serve up some of the best food in Southeast Asia. On Bunnik Tours’ Discover Vietnam small group tour, you’ll spend two days immersing in just that.
Overview:
Hanoi’s history stretches back more than 1,000 years, making it one of Southeast Asia’s oldest capitals. The city became Vietnam’s political centre in 1010 under the original name of Thăng Long, meaning ‘Rising Dragon’ — inspired by a legend of a dragon ascending from the Red River.
Over the centuries, Hanoi has been shaped by Chinese, French and Vietnamese influences, each leaving their mark on the city’s architecture, culture and traditions. Its modern name, Hà Nội, translates to ‘city within the rivers’, a nod to its location between the Red and Black rivers.
Day 1: See another side of Hanoi
Long Thuong Village
Just outside the busy heart of Hanoi lies Long Thuong Village, a traditional local community that offers a fascinating glimpse into everyday Vietnamese life.
Start the day by taking a walk through the village lanes, where time seems to slow down. You’ll have the opportunity to step inside family-run workshops and meet skilled bronze-casting artisans who have passed their craft down through generations. The locals are incredibly welcoming and proud to share their work!
200-year-old Nom Village
Continue your journey to Nom Village, a beautifully preserved village with a history stretching back over 200 years. Surrounding a tranquil lake that lies at the village’s centre, wander past ancient homes, quiet courtyards and historic pagodas that showcase Vietnam’s rural heritage.
One of the village’s highlights is Nom Pagoda, one of the most impressive pagodas in the region, dating back to the 17th century. The pagoda is known for its collection of well-preserved statues, intricate wooden carvings and peaceful atmosphere, offering a fascinating insight into traditional Vietnamese Buddhism. Surrounded by greenery and the still waters of the lake, Nom Pagoda is a place of reflection — and a highlight that brings the village’s history and spiritual life to the forefront.
Bonus suggestion: Train Street
If you’re up for a little more exploring this afternoon, make sure Hanoi’s iconic Train Street is on your list. It’s exactly what it sounds like: narrow railway tracks threading their way through a residential neighbourhood, with tiny cafés perched right beside them. Sip a delicious Vietnamese coffee as a train rumbles past just metres away — it’s an unforgettable and uniquely Hanoi experience.
Rose Kitchen
Nothing says Vietnam quite like a freshly made spring roll — and at Rose Kitchen, you’ll learn how to make them yourself.
To kick off the evening, your private chef will take you to a bustling local market, where you’ll learn about traditional ingredients and even try your hand at a little friendly haggling. Once your shopping is done, head to a beautiful kitchen tucked away in Hanoi’s quiet side streets.
Here, you’ll prepare classic Vietnamese dishes from scratch, including banana flower salad, fried spring rolls and bún chả, before sitting down to enjoy your hard work. It’s hands-on, super delicious and one of the most memorable ways to experience Vietnamese cuisine.
Day 2: Old Hanoi & city highlights
Flower market
Start your morning early with a visit to the Quảng Bá Flower Market, at its liveliest before dawn. Bursting with colour and fragrance, this wholesale market supplies beautiful flowers to much of Hanoi!
Wander through its stalls stacked high with roses, lilies and orchids as locals go about their morning routines — it’s a totally vibrant way to begin your day.
Old Quarter
Next, dive into the heart of the city in Hanoi’s Old Quarter. This maze of narrow streets is often called “The 36 Streets”, with each one traditionally dedicated to a specific trade.
From silk and souvenirs to street food and motorbike repairs, the Old Quarter is full of life. Take your time to explore, stop for a bowl of pho or a banh mi, and soak up the organised chaos that makes Hanoi so captivating.
Ho Chi Minh Memorial Complex
No visit to Hanoi is complete without seeing the Ho Chi Minh Memorial Complex. This important historical site includes the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, Presidential Palace and the modest stilt house where “Uncle Ho” once lived.
Your guide will provide valuable context, helping you understand Ho Chi Minh’s influence on Vietnam’s history and identity.
Temple of Literature
Finish the day at the serene Temple of Literature, Vietnam’s first national university and one of Hanoi’s most beautiful landmarks.
Built in 1070, this peaceful complex of courtyards, gardens and traditional architecture honours Confucius and generations of scholars. It’s a fitting place to pause and reflect on everything you’ve experienced in the city.
Discover Hanoi, Vietnam with Bunnik Tours
By now, it’s clear that there’s so much to explore in beautiful Hanoi — and even more beyond it.
If you want to travel deeper, smarter and with the guidance of local experts, Bunnik Tours’ Discover Vietnam tour offers a seamless way to experience Hanoi and the rest of Vietnam. From immersive cultural encounters and expert-led sightseeing to the comfort of small group travel, it’s designed to help you truly connect with this incredible country.
Two days may only scratch the surface — but Hanoi has a way of staying with you long after you leave.
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