Unmissable things to do in Hanoi during 24 hours on National Day

With a six-day holiday stretching from August 29 to September 3, the capital is expected to welcome millions of visitors, both domestic and international.

From a grand military parade to cultural hotspots and culinary tours, the city offers a blend of tradition and modern vibrance.

If you have just one day to spend in Hanoi during this special occasion, here is a curated itinerary to help you capture the spirit of the city–its taste, its charm, and its celebration of independence.

6:00 - 8:00 am: Start with bowl of pho, glass of iced tea

There is no better way to begin a day in Hanoi than with a bowl of traditional beef pho, paired with deep-fried dough sticks and a refreshing glass of street-style iced tea.

Pho is a world-renowned Vietnamese soup consisting of broth, rice noodles, herbs, and meat – usually beef or chicken.

Iconic spots such as Pho Khoi Hoi and Pho Lam on Phung Hung Street, and Pho Thin Bo Ho at 61 Dinh Tien Hoang Street near Hoan Kiem Lake, are favored by locals and have gained popularity among international visitors, especially since being mentioned in Michelin guides.

A bowl of pho is priced from VND50,000 to VND80,000 (US$1.9-$3).

8:30 – 11:00 am: Capture Hanoi's festive vibe

After breakfast, visitors can explore the charming alleys of Hanoi draped with Vietnamese national flags, including 150 Yen Phu, Vong Ha, 823 Hong Ha, Cho Kham Thien, 25 Phan Dinh Phung, 477 Kim Ma, and the alley next to Ngoc Ha Temple.

For a relaxing mid-morning break, tourists can grab a drink at some of the city's most atmospheric cafés.

Sipping lime iced tea in front of St. Joseph's Cathedral or the Hanoi Opera House is a relaxing experience.

Don't miss Hanoi's signature egg coffee at Pho Co Café, Giang Café or Dinh Café.

All are nestled in the Old Quarter, best explored by motorbike.

Looking for a panoramic view, visitors can hop on a double-decker sightseeing bus, with tickets ranging from VND150,000 to VND400,000 ($5.7-$15.3), depending on the route.

11:30 am – 2:00 pm: Hanoi food tour

Lunchtime is perfect for a local food crawl.

Multiple street stalls just outside Dong Xuan Market serve favorites such as bun oc (snail noodle soup), bun cha (rice noodles with grilled pork and meatballs), banh tom (shrimp fritters), and traditional Vietnamese sweet soups, most dishes priced between VND20,000 and VND50,000 ($0.7-$1.9).

Alternatively, when venturing into the maze of the Old Quarter, visitors can try bun cha on Gam Cau Street, bun dau mam tom (vermicelli served with fried tofu and shrimp paste) on Hang Khay Street, Michelin-recommended eel noodles on Hang Dieu Street, banh cuon (steamed rice rolls) at Thanh Van Eatery on Hang Ga Street, and cha ca La Vong (La Vong grilled fish) at 14 Cha Ca.

2:00 – 5:30 pm: Craft souvenirs

They can spend their afternoon immersing themselves in Hanoi's artisanal heritage.

Tourists are recommended to stroll through the Old Quarter and visit traditional stamp-carving shops on Hang Quat or To Tich Streets.

They can order personalized seals–crafted by hand with calligraphy or custom designs–for just VND70,000 - VND100,000 ($2.6-$3.8).

Another memorable activity is having their portrait drawn by one of the lakeside artists near Hoan Kiem Lake.

A hand-drawn likeness takes just 15 to 30 minutes and costs between VND50,000 and 300,000 ($1.9-$11.4).

7:00 – 10:00 pm: A night out in Hanoi

As night falls, tourists can head to Ta Hien Street, the bustling 'backpacker spot' known for its nightlife.

Popular with both locals and foreigners, this pedestrian street comes alive with bia hoi (draft beer), street food like grilled chicken feet, and impromptu karaoke sessions.

Ta Hien is closed to cars and motorcycles in the evening, so revelers can park their vehicles on Luong Ngoc Quyen Street or nearby lots.

For a more laid-back experience, tourists can visit the Dao Duy Tu food street or browse for souvenirs and festive items on Hang Ma Street.

Ceremonial activities including a military parade will be held in Hanoi to mark the 80th anniversary of Vietnam's August Revolution (August 19) and National Day (September 2).

The historic event will feature the participation of some 30,000 representatives and residents.

Hanoi will light up the sky with fireworks displays at five major locations, including Hoan Kiem Lake, Thong Nhat Park, Van Quan Lake, My Dinh National Stadium, and West Lake.