Are you planning a Hanoi vacation? Perfect. Because I’ve got just what you need: a no-fluff, all-you-need-to-know Hanoi travel guide.
Hanoi is a haven for cultural and historical adventures. It’s one of the most vibrant cities, hitting your senses from almost every angle.
Everything from the best time to go, what to do, and the best hotels will be wrapped up in this quick post.
So, stick around if you want to have the most fabulous time in this Vietnamese capital.
Want to See More of Vietnam? Check out my ultimate Cao Bang guide.
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Planning Essentials For Your Hanoi Trip
Before we get to the fun activities, here are a few things to know before you go.
Where Is Hanoi?
Hanoi is the capital of Vietnam, situated in its northern region. It’s also part of the country’s Red River Delta region, nearly 56 miles (90 km) from the coast.
How to Travel to Hanoi
Flying into Hanoi is the best way to get there – unless you’re already traveling around Vietnam.
While you can easily take a Reunification Express train from other Vietnamese cities to Hanoi, flying is much quicker.
If you choose the latter option, you’ll likely land at the Noi Bai International Airport (HAN).
The second largest and busiest airport in Vietnam (yes, it’s pretty chaotic). From there, it’s possible to rent a car, use ride-hailing services or public transport.
When Is the Best Time to Visit Hanoi?
Autumn is the overall best time to visit Hanoi (mid-September to early October).
The weather is pleasant for outdoor activities, and there are fewer crowds, allowing you to explore freely.
The air also feels more crisp and clean, and you’ll spend a bit less on accommodation and flights compared to peak season.
The Best Hotels in Hanoi
Of course, no Hanoi guide would be complete without a few hotel suggestions. These are my top choices for your next trip.
Luxury – Peridot Grand Luxury Boutique Hotel
If you’re planning on splurging on your accommodation, the Peridot Grand Luxury Boutique Hotel won’t disappoint.
It’s a grand 5-star hotel with high ceilings, massive chandeliers, and pristine decor.
Every nook and cranny is Instagram-worthy, and you’ll have access to amazing amenities such as a spa, a bar, a gym, and a restaurant.
Mid-Range – Ficus Suites Apartment
Looking for something a bit easier on the wallet yet nothing short of luxury? The modern and chic Ficus Suites Apartment is your perfect answer.
This aparthotel boasts splendid city views from every room, a lovely outdoor space, and a sleek, fully-kitted kitchen.
Budget-Friendly – Old Quarter View Hanoi Hostel
Now, onto something for the budget travelers out there, I recommend staying at a hostel, but not just any old spot.
This three-star abode has neat and elegant rooms with street views and enjoyable social spaces.
Located in the center of Hanoi, the Old Quarter View Hanoi Hostel offers a comfy and affordable way to experience the city.
The Best Things to Do When Visiting Hanoi
If you’ve made it this far, pat yourself on the back. Because this is where things get really interesting. Here’s what to do in Hanoi.
Stroll Through Hanoi Old Quarter
What’s the very first thing you should do when traveling to Hanoi?
Wandering through Hanoi’s Old Quarter is a great way to get an introduction to the city, the local culture, and their way of life.
Simply walk around and take it all in – from the bustling sounds to the smell of street foods, you’ll experience it all right here.
You’ll find boutiques and street vendors dotted everywhere selling things like art, textiles, and homewares.
There’s also interesting street art on the buildings, colorful bars, and locally owned restaurants. Look out for those mopeds – they’ll sneak up on you!
Visit one of their many cute Cafes
Have you ever tasted Vietnamese coffee? Well, I think it’s about time you do, and there’s no better place to start than Hanoi.
But beyond tasting some of the strongest coffee ever, it’s also essential that I send you to a unique cafe.
But a little more on Vietnamese coffee before I suggest a place.
While it’s certainly strong, but aromatic, too, and can be extremely sweet. It’s especially a hit among espresso lovers.
Hidden Gem Cafe is definitely one of the prettiest spots in Hanoi, thanks to its aesthetic and quirky decor. However, they also serve some delicious coffees, banh mi, and other treats.
The Note Coffee is another must! Just like its name suggests, this place is covered in quirky notes from guests coming from all over the world. I personally didn’t love my coffee here but it’s worth checking out.
Go Temple-Hopping
You’ve got to set aside some time for at least one temple while in Hanoi.
That said, I have an even better suggestion: spend the morning hopping from one temple to another. These are some of my favorite ones:
- Tran Quoc Pagoda: Have a unique religious experience at the oldest Buddhist temple in Hanoi, located on the small island of West Lake. The temple has a calm ambiance with stunning architecture and is free to enter.
- One Pillar Pagoda: This is a quaint historic Buddhist temple built in authentic Vietnamese fashion to resemble a lotus blossom. Perched on a single stone pillar above water, the temple symbolizes purity. It’s also free to enter.
- Ngoc Son Temple: Situated on an islet in Hoan Kiem Lake, Ngoc Son is a stunning white and red temple decorated with intricate artwork. It’s a top tourist destination and costs VND 30,000 per entry ticket.
- Temple Of Literature: Here’s one of Hanoi’s most iconic attractions, a temple dedicated to Confucius. Built in 1070, it is the first university complex in Vietnam, making it a cultural and historical relic. Expect to pay VDN 70,000 to enter.
Snap Some Beautiful Shots at Hoan Kiem Lake
I’ve mentioned that the Ngoc Son Temple is at Hoan Kiem Lake, but there’s more to this magical place. It’s also known as Sword Lake or Ta Vọng Lake and is made of natural fresh water.
There’s a legend that goes: after King Le Loi defeated the Chinese Mong Dynasty in 1428, he was boating on the Green Lake and met a Golden Turtle God. This deity asked for the return of a magic sword.
Besides its intriguing backstory, many come here to admire the lake and its surroundings, which include bridges, a tower, and pavilions.
Peruse the Local Night Market
If you want to collect keepsakes, buy souvenirs for friends and family, or tuck into snacks, head to the Night Market. This bustling market sells crafts, clothing, footwear, paintings, fresh produce, and everything in between.
Have you ever had kumquat iced tea and fruit dipped in chili powder? You’ll find that here.
There are also barbecued skewers prepared with various meats, veggies, and tofu as a vegan option.
The market opens on weekends between 6:00 pm and 12:00 am.
It takes place in Hanoi’s old town, closing the road to traffic and then coming to life with stalls and fairy lights.
See What You Can Find at Hanoi Train Street
There’s culture shock, then there’s Hanoi Train Street, which has become one of the most iconic things to do in recent years.
What is this train street, you may ask. It’s literally a narrow train bypass with a still functioning train that passes through it twice daily.
What makes it so exceptional are all the rattling cafes and shops cramped up on either side.
It’s something you have to see to believe and to think it was once seen as an unsightly, noisy nuisance.
Now, it’s Vietnam’s capital’s most alluring tourist attraction.
So, take in all the vibrant sights and sounds as you sip on some coffee or tea.
Have Your Taste of the Foodie Scene
The entire Vietnam is a foodie’s dream come true, but Hanoi is simply the cherry on top.
The gastronomy scene here is on another level, with something for all tastes and budgets.
There are three ways to go about this: visit the local markets (like the one above), go on a guided foodie tour, or visit various restaurants.
Try The Gourmet Corner restaurant if you really want traditional Vietnamese cuisine. Expect a sophistocated atmosphere for casual fine dining and beautifully, Instagram-worthy presented dishes.
Then there’s the more laid-back and humble Banh Mi 25, an adorable sandwich shop known for the delicious street food banh mi (a must-try indeed).
Lastly, Katze in the Old Quarter is another spot for Vietnamese cuisine, but strictly vegan or vegetarian.
Check Out the Art Scene Too
You can simply walk from the Old Quarter towards Hoan Kiem Lake and have your fill of impressive street art.
But there’s more to Hanoi’s buzzing art scene. Hanoi Train Street is also a good spot for street art.
Then, Hanoi is peppered with plenty of small galleries showcasing local art and traditional crafts.
Start off with the Nguyen Art Gallery, filled with quality Vietnamese paintings.
Líu Lô Arts and Crafts is a cute gift shop with clay jewelry, handcrafted earrings, and other artsy stuff.
Also pop by the Vincom Center for Contemporary Art (VCCA), Vietnam’s largest art center, with unique, thought-provoking sculptures.
Read Next: Ninh Binh: A Complete Guide to Vietnam’s Hidden Gem.