To ensure your stay is nothing short of exceptional, we are pleased to present A Perfect Day – a bespoke itinerary thoughtfully curated by our expert Concierge team. Designed to inspire and delight, this guide brings together the most refined cultural, culinary and lifestyle experiences Hanoi has to offer.
Whether you are discovering the city for the first time or returning as a familiar guest, our dedicated team is on hand to tailor each moment to your personal preferences. Allow us to reveal the hidden gems and celebrated landmarks that define this captivating city, all through the lens of InterContinental sophistication.
We look forward to crafting an unforgettable day, uniquely yours!
Your day begins high above the city with an extensive breakfast buffet at 3 Spoons Restaurant, where floor-to-ceiling windows frame sweeping views of Hanoi’s skyline. The experience is elevated with a cup of authentic Vietnamese coffee – rich, aromatic, and impeccably balanced – a refined ritual that gently awakens the senses and sets a confident, unhurried tone for the day ahead.
Following breakfast, step into Vietnam’s cultural richness with a visit to the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology, one of the nation’s most distinguished cultural institutions. Through contemporary exhibition design and carefully preserved architectural spaces, the museum presents the diverse traditions, artistry, and ways of life of Vietnam’s 54 ethnic communities. The experience is immersive yet elegant, offering meaningful insight into the cultural foundation of the country.
At midday, enjoy lunch at a carefully selected local restaurant, where iconic Hanoi dishes such as Pho (Phở) or Bun Cha (Bún chả) are presented with authenticity and subtle refinement, highlighting the balance and depth of northern Vietnamese cuisine.
The afternoon unfolds with a visit to the Temple of Literature (Van Mieu – Quoc Tu Giam), Vietnam’s first national university and a lasting symbol of intellectual tradition. Within its serene courtyards and historic pavilions, guests are invited to reflect on the country’s long-standing reverence for scholarship and cultural continuity, far removed from the energy of the modern city.
The journey continues at St. Joseph’s Cathedral, a refined landmark surrounded by stylish cafés and boutique-lined streets. This area offers an ideal balance of architectural heritage and contemporary urban life, perfect for an unhurried stroll and elegant photography.
Later in the afternoon, enjoy a leisurely walk around Hoan Kiem Lake, the symbolic heart of Hanoi. As daylight softens, the lake’s calm waters and shaded paths reveal a quieter, more contemplative side of the city. The iconic The Huc Bridge and Ngoc Son Temple appear gracefully timeless against the gentle glow of late afternoon.
From here, explore the historic Old Quarter on foot or aboard a traditional cyclo, experiencing the rhythm of the 36 Ancient Streets. Here, heritage trade houses, artisan workshops, and curated boutique stores coexist, offering a sophisticated blend of tradition and modern urban charm.
As evening approaches, indulge in a distinguished dining experience featuring Cha Ca La Vong, one of Hanoi’s most celebrated culinary traditions. Prepared with precision and respect for time-honored techniques, this iconic dish embodies the elegance and depth of northern Vietnamese gastronomy.
Conclude the day with an exclusive cultural experience at the Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre. Accompanied by live traditional music, this refined performance brings Vietnam’s folklore and rural heritage to life through an art form unique to the country. It is a memorable and meaningful finale, offering guests a lasting impression of Hanoi’s cultural legacy — viewed through a lens of modern sophistication.