When a person finds themselves dreaming of romantic locations, cities like Paris, Rome and Florence may come to mind. Indeed, all of these iconic cities will stir up butterflies, however they all come with a hefty price tag too. Hanoi, on the other hand, not only boasts plenty of charm but won’t break the bank either.
Enjoy the perfect date all in one day
Begin with walking around Hanoi’s Old Quarter
Longstanding French architecture lines the streets of the city setting a dreamy scene that steals the show because a person can’t help but stop and admire each building for the masterpiece it is. And in the centre of the city sits the famous Hanoi Opera House, which opened its doors in 1911 and is modeled after the Opéra Garnier de Paris.
Top the day with food and culture
Treat yourself to some of Hanoi’s rich culture by attending a play at the Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre, which will also provide an escape from the mid-day heat. If you prefer a more quiet afternoon, choose from a wide selection of museums to wander instead. After filling up on live vocals, Vietnamese instrumental music and exciting water puppets or rich Vietnamese art, continue back outdoors to walk among the many Zen-like gardens accentuated with Chinese history.
Outdoor dining in Hanoi is seemingly limitless and again with such a heavy influence from the French, you will find the perfect table suited for people watching whilst you sip on a glass of wine and indulge in an array of small entrees.
End your date in the park
Once dusk falls, this is the perfect time to follow the city’s sweet tradition of going out for ice cream. The tradition is so popular that you’ll have to push your way through an eager crowd waiting to put in their orders at a small ice cream parlor which line the sidewalks.
With your delicious ice cream cone in hand – and your date’s hand in the other – stroll the famous Lake of the Restored Sword (Hoan Kiem Lake) and allow an ambiance of purity laced with romantic lighting to woo your senses.
