Discover Hanoi: Vietnam's Charming Capital
A City of Lakes, History, and Old World Charm
Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam, offers a captivating blend of history, culture, and frenetic energy. Explore the narrow, bustling streets of the Old Quarter, relax by the serene Hoan Kiem Lake, delve into the country's history at museums and mausoleums, and savor delicious Northern Vietnamese cuisine. With its French colonial architecture, ancient temples, and vibrant street life, Hanoi provides a fascinating contrast to its southern counterpart, Ho Chi Minh City.
Where to Stay in Hanoi
Hanoi offers a wide range of accommodation. The Old Quarter is the most popular area for tourists, filled with boutique hotels, guesthouses, and hostels amidst its historic streets. The nearby French Quarter offers more upscale, colonial-style hotels. West Lake (Tay Ho) provides a quieter, more expat-oriented atmosphere with lakeside hotels and apartments.
Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi
A legendary, opulent 5-star hotel dating back to 1901, located in the French Quarter. Offers luxurious rooms, French colonial elegance, fine dining, a historic bar, and impeccable service.
View Details & RatesLa Siesta Hotel & Spa (Multiple Locations)
A highly-regarded group of boutique hotels known for excellent service, comfortable rooms, and great locations, primarily in the Old Quarter (e.g., La Siesta Classic Ma May, La Siesta Premium Hang Be).
View Details & RatesHanoi Marvellous Hotel & Spa
A popular and well-rated boutique hotel in the Old Quarter, praised for its friendly staff, clean rooms, good breakfast, and central location.
View Details & RatesThe Oriental Jade Hotel
A modern luxury hotel bordering the Old Quarter, offering stunning views over Hoan Kiem Lake, particularly from its rooftop infinity pool and bar.
View Details & RatesHanoi Buffalo Hostel
A lively and social hostel located in the Old Quarter, popular with backpackers. Offers dorms and private rooms, a swimming pool, free beer happy hour, and tours.
View Details & RatesThings to Do in Hanoi
Explore Hanoi's rich history and culture by visiting its central lake, wandering the Old Quarter, paying respects at historical sites, and enjoying traditional performances.
Hoan Kiem Lake & Ngoc Son Temple
The heart of Hanoi. Stroll around the picturesque lake, cross the iconic red Huc Bridge to visit Ngoc Son Temple on Jade Island, and watch locals practicing tai chi in the mornings.
Hanoi Old Quarter (Pho Co)
Get lost in the charming, chaotic maze of 36 ancient streets, each historically specializing in a particular trade (e.g., Hang Bac - silver street, Hang Gai - silk street). Explore shops, temples, street food stalls, and experience the vibrant atmosphere.
Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum Complex
A major pilgrimage site housing the embalmed body of Ho Chi Minh (viewing times are limited and strict dress code applies). The complex also includes the Presidential Palace, Ho Chi Minh's Stilt House, and the Ho Chi Minh Museum.
Temple of Literature (Van Mieu - Quoc Tu Giam)
Founded in 1070, this beautiful complex dedicated to Confucius was Vietnam's first national university. Explore its peaceful courtyards, traditional pavilions, and stone stelae honoring past scholars.
Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre
Experience a unique traditional Vietnamese art form. Watch colourful wooden puppets seemingly dance on water, depicting rural life and legends, accompanied by live traditional music. Located near Hoan Kiem Lake.
Vietnamese Women's Museum
A highly-regarded museum showcasing the roles and contributions of Vietnamese women in history, culture, and family life through engaging exhibits and artifacts.
Hanoi's Culinary Delights
Northern Vietnamese Flavors to Savor
Hanoi is famous for its distinct Northern Vietnamese cuisine. Pho (noodle soup, often beef 'Pho Bo' or chicken 'Pho Ga') is a must-try, arguably at its best here. Sample Bun Cha (grilled pork with noodles, made famous by Obama & Bourdain), Cha Ca La Vong (turmeric fish with dill), Banh Cuon (steamed rice rolls), and Egg Coffee (Ca Phe Trung). Explore street food stalls and local eateries for authentic tastes.
Hanoi Nightlife: Bia Hoi and Beyond
Evening Experiences in the Capital
Hanoi's nightlife is generally more subdued than HCMC's but offers unique experiences. Head to Ta Hien Street ('Beer Street') in the Old Quarter for cheap, fresh draft beer ('Bia Hoi') enjoyed on small plastic stools. Explore bars around Hoan Kiem Lake or the West Lake area. Catch live music performances or enjoy cocktails in stylish lounges in the French Quarter.
Essential Travel Tips
- Currency: Vietnamese Dong (VND). ATMs readily available; cash preferred for smaller vendors/street food.
- Language: Vietnamese. English is spoken in tourist areas, but less widely than in HCMC. Learning basic phrases is helpful.
- Getting Around: Walking is great for exploring the Old Quarter and around Hoan Kiem Lake. Use ride-hailing apps (Grab for cars/motorbikes). Cyclos (three-wheeled bicycle rickshaws) offer scenic tours but agree on price beforehand. Taxis are available (use reputable brands).
- Connectivity: Buy a local SIM card (Viettel, Mobifone, Vinaphone) at Noi Bai International Airport (HAN) or city shops.
- Visas: Visa requirements vary. Check current regulations for e-visas or visa exemptions.
- Safety: Be aware of pickpocketing in crowded areas (Old Quarter, markets). Be cautious of minor scams. Traffic can be chaotic; be careful when crossing streets.
- Dress Code: Dress respectfully (cover shoulders/knees) when visiting temples, pagodas, and especially the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum complex.
- Climate: Hanoi has four distinct seasons. Hot and humid summers (May-Aug), pleasant autumn (Sep-Nov), cool and damp winters (Dec-Feb), warm spring (Mar-Apr). Pack accordingly.