A detailed 5-day Hanoi guide tailored for Indian travellers, this itinerary covers visa fees, flight ranges, hotel budgets and daily costs, along with must-visit spots like Hoan Kiem Lake, Ngoc Son Temple, Train Street, Halong Bay and Ninh Binh. It explains transport, ticket prices, dress codes, safety rules and booking tips to help plan a smooth, affordable 2026 trip.
Hanoi has quickly become one of the most sought-after international destinations for Indian travellers, thanks to its rich history, breathtaking natural landscapes, and budget-friendly travel options. If you’re planning a trip to Vietnam’s capital in 2026, knowing the itinerary and the approximate costs involved will help you plan efficiently. Here is all you need to know about a Hanoi trip from India, including an ideal 5-day itinerary, flight tickets, and daily budget. Also check Vietnam visa fees now applicable to Indians.
Indian travellers require a valid visa to visit Vietnam.
The most convenient option in 2026 is the 90-day e-Visa.
The official government fee for a single-entry e-Visa is USD 25 (approximately ₹2,100).
Processing typically takes 3-5 working days via the official Vietnam immigration portal.
Round-trip airfare varies by season and departure city, with direct flights available from cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Ahmedabad, and Kochi. On average:
Economy flights: ₹15,000-₹25,000
Premium/Business class: ₹40,000 and above
Airlines like VietJet Air, IndiGo, and Vietnam Airlines frequently operate these direct routes.
Day 1: HanoiNgoc Son Temple And Hoan Kiem Lake
Start your trip at the spiritual center of the city. Cross the iconic red Huc Bridge to this beautiful temple located on a small island in the lake.
How to find it: Right in the center of the Old Quarter. Completely walkable from most central hotels.
Opening Hours: 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM (open until 10:00 PM from Friday to Sunday).
Price: 50,000 VND (₹180). Cash only.
Booking: Walk-in. Best visited early morning to avoid crowds and the midday heat.
Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre
End your day watching an 11th-century Vietnamese art form performed on a water stage with live traditional musicians.
How to find it: 57B Dinh Tien Hoang St, directly opposite Hoan Kiem Lake.
Opening Hours: Multiple 50-minute shows daily (e.g., 4:10 PM, 5:20 PM, 6:30 PM, 8:00 PM).
Price: 100,000 to 200,000 VND (₹350–₹700) depending on how close you sit to the water. Booking: Mandatory. Evening shows sell out almost every day. Book online in advance via their official site or buy tickets at the box office early in the morning for a later show.
Day 2: History & The Famous Train Street
Temple of Literature
Vietnam's first national university, built in 1070. A stunning complex of traditional courtyards, pavilions, and ancient stone turtles honoring scholars.
How to find it: About 2 km from the Old Quarter. Take a Grab taxi for ~70,000 VND (₹250). Opening Hours: 7:30 AM – 6:00 PM daily.
Price: 30,000 VND (₹110).
Booking: Walk-in.Rule to know: Strict dress code enforced. No shorts above the knee, no sleeveless tops, and take off hats inside the sanctuary.
Hanoi Train Street (Evening)
A narrow residential alley where a massive train passes mere inches from cafes. Important 2026 update: The street is officially closed to free-roaming tourists. You cannot wander in alone. Weekday trains only pass in the evening (after 7:00 PM), while weekend trains run all day.
Because of strict government regulations, you must follow these steps to get past the police barricades:
Go to the barrier: Intersection of Tran Phu and Phung Hung.Stand on the sidewalk outside the barricade. Do not talk to or try to walk past the police guards, they will turn you away.
Wait for a cafe owner: Wait near the barrier until a cafe owner inside signals you to come with them.
Follow the escort: Walk in with the cafe owner. They will ‘vouch’ for you with the guards, making your entry legal.
Buy a drink and sit tight: Strictly enforced.You must sit at their specific cafe and buy a drink (prices are inflated, expect ~60,000–80,000 VND). Stay seated when the train horn blows, the force of the train can knock you over if you are standing too close.
Day 3: Halong Bay Day Cruise
Take a full-day trip to this UNESCO World Heritage site to sail through emerald waters, hike Ti Top Island for panoramic views, and explore the massive Sung Sot (Surprise) Cave.
How to find it: 2.5 hours east of Hanoi. Tour operators handle all transport from your hotel.
Opening Hours: Tours typically run from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM (including transit time).
Price: ₹3,500 – ₹5,500 per person (includes hotel pickup, English-speaking guide, cruise, and lunch).
Booking: Mandatory. Book 1-2 days in advance through your hotel or via apps like Klook/MakeMyTrip.
Day 4: Ninh Binh (Tam Coc or Trang An)
Often called Halong Bay on land, Ninh Binh offers a peaceful bamboo boat ride rowed by locals (who often use their feet to row). You will float past lush rice paddies and directly through stunning limestone water caves.
How to find it: 2 hours south of Hanoi. Like Halong Bay, hotel pickups are standard.
Opening Hours: Full-day trip (usually 7:30 AM to 6:30 PM).
Price: ₹3,000 – ₹4,500 per person.
Booking: Mandatory. Book via your hotel or online platforms 1-2 days ahead.
Day 5: Souvenirs & Departure
Dong Xuan Market
Hanoi’s largest indoor market is perfect for picking up souvenirs, silk, coffee, and local spices before your flight.
How to find it: The northern edge of the Old Quarter (a 10-minute walk from Hoan Kiem Lake).
Opening Hours: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM.
Price: Free to enter.
Rule to know: Bargaining is expected here.
Accommodation costs can range widely depending on location and luxury level:
Budget hotels: ₹1,000-₹2,500 per night
Mid-range hotels: ₹3,000-₹6,000 per night
Luxury hotels: ₹10,000 and above per night
Popular areas to stay include the Old Quarter for nightlife and the French Quarter for a quieter, upscale vibe.
For a comfortable trip, travellers can expect to spend approximately:
Food: ₹1,000-₹2,500 per day (Indian food is widely available in the city center)
Local transport: ₹300-₹800 per day (using Grab ride-hailing apps or cyclos)
Sightseeing and attraction tickets: ₹1,000-₹3,000 per day depending on the activities
For a 4-5 day trip, an Indian traveller can expect:
Budget trip: ₹30,000-₹40,000 per person
Mid-range trip: ₹50,000-₹70,000 per person
Luxury trip: ₹1 lakh and above per person
Costs will vary depending on your travel season, hotel choice, and shopping preferences.
Hanoi offers options for every kind of traveller, from budget explorers to luxury seekers. With careful planning, Indian travellers can enjoy a smooth and memorable international getaway without being burdened by unexpected expenses.