HANOI
Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam, is a fascinating fusion of Eastern and Western cultures, steeped in history and exuding a vibrant energy, with its bustling streets lined with old colonial buildings, traditional Vietnamese architecture, and vast array of street food vendors. The city seamlessly juxtaposes serenity and chaos, best represented by the tranquil Hoan Kiem Lake at its heart, around which life pulses with dynamic markets, ancient temples, and the frenetic traffic of its countless motorbikes.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Hanoi, Vietnam is during the fall, from September to November, and spring, from March to April. During these periods, the city experiences mild temperatures and lower humidity levels, making it more comfortable for outdoor activities and sightseeing.
How to Get There
Traveling to Hanoi typically involves flying into Noi Bai International Airport (HAN), which is the largest airport in northern Vietnam and serves as a major hub for both international and domestic flights. Several major airlines fly to Hanoi from different parts of the world. Once you've landed, the city center is about 35 kilometers away and can be reached via taxi, bus, or private transfer. If you are already in Vietnam, you could also reach Hanoi by bus, train, or car from other cities.
Top Attractions in Hanoi
Cultural Attractions:
Hoan Kiem Lake and Ngoc Son Temple: A serene lake at the heart of Hanoi, surrounded by beautiful gardens and home to Ngoc Son Temple, a historic pagoda.
Tran Quoc Pagoda: located on a serene island in Hanoi's West Lake, stands as a magnificent symbol of Buddhist spirituality and architectural grace.
Perfume Pagoda (Chua Huong): A complex of Buddhist temples nestled amidst stunning limestone cliffs and surrounded by a picturesque landscape.
One Pillar Pagoda (Chua Mot Cot): A unique and iconic Buddhist pagoda built on a single stone pillar, symbolizing a lotus blossom.
St. Joseph's Cathedral: A neo-Gothic style Catholic cathedral in the heart of Hanoi, known for its beautiful architecture.
Thang Long Imperial Citadel: a UNESCO World Heritage site in Hanoi, showcases centuries of rich Vietnamese history and culture through its remarkable architecture, ancient relics, and fascinating archaeological discoveries.
Temple of Literature (Van Mieu - Quoc Tu Giam): Vietnam's first university dating back to the 11th century, known for its impressive architecture and peaceful courtyards.
Old Quarter: A bustling district filled with narrow streets, ancient houses, vibrant markets, and a wide range of street food stalls.
Train Street (Tran Phu Road): nestled within Hanoi's vibrant urban fabric, is a unique and bustling alleyway where trains pass through at close proximity, offering a thrilling and unforgettable experience for visitors.
Hanoi Opera House: A grand French colonial building that hosts operas, ballets, and musical performances.
Vietnam Museum of Ethnology: Showcasing the diverse ethnic groups of Vietnam through exhibitions, artifacts, and traditional houses.
Vietnam National Museum of Fine Arts: A museum displaying a wide collection of Vietnamese art, ranging from ancient to contemporary works.
Klimt Art Gallery: showcases a captivating collection of contemporary art, featuring a diverse range of styles and mediums that celebrate creativity and artistic expression.
Vietnamese Women's Museum: A museum dedicated to showcasing the contributions and stories of Vietnamese women throughout history.
Bat Trang Ceramic Village: Located on the outskirts of Hanoi, it is famous for its traditional pottery and ceramics, where visitors can explore the village and even try their hand at pottery-making.
Long Bien Bridge: An iconic historical bridge spanning the Red River, offering picturesque views and a glimpse into Hanoi's past.
The Presidential Palace: a striking architectural masterpiece nestled within lush gardens, serves as the official residence and workplace of Vietnam's highest-ranking government officials, embodying the country's political history and significance.
Hanoi Ceramic Mosaic Mural: A stunning mosaic art installation that stretches for over 6.5 kilometers, depicting various aspects of Vietnamese culture and history.
Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum: A monumental structure where visitors can pay respects to Vietnam's revered leader, Ho Chi Minh.
Ho Chi Minh Museum: located next to the mausoleum offers a comprehensive and captivating journey through the life, achievements, and legacy of Vietnam's revered leader, Ho Chi Minh.
Hoa Lo Prison: A historical site that once served as a prison during the French colonial era and later used for American prisoners of war.
Vietnam Military History Museum: provides a comprehensive and insightful narrative of Vietnam's military struggles and victories, housing an impressive collection of artifacts, weaponry, and exhibits that pay homage to the nation's resilient spirit.
Nature Attractions:
West Lake: The largest lake in Hanoi, offering a scenic escape with waterfront cafes, pagodas, and beautiful lakeside promenades.
Dong Mo Lake: A picturesque lake located about 40 kilometers from Hanoi, offering opportunities for boating, fishing, and enjoying the peaceful surroundings.
Cuc Phuong National Park: Located southwest of Hanoi, it is one of Vietnam's oldest and most diverse national parks, known for its rich biodiversity, hiking trails, and primate rescue center.
Tam Dao National Park: Situated northwest of Hanoi, it offers lush forests, scenic mountains, and opportunities for hiking, bird watching, and exploring waterfalls.
Ba Vi National Park: Located on the outskirts of Hanoi, it offers lush greenery, hiking trails, and stunning panoramic views from the mountain summit.
Ninh Binh: A province south of Hanoi, known for its stunning karst landscapes, caves, and boat tours along the Trang An or Tam Coc rivers.
Red River Delta: The vast river delta surrounding Hanoi, where you can take boat tours to explore the rural countryside, visit traditional craft villages, and experience the local way of life.
Entertainment Attractions:
Thang Long Water Puppet Theater: A popular venue for water puppetry performances showcasing the rich cultural heritage of Vietnam.
Hanoi Night Market: A bustling market that comes alive in the evenings, offering a wide array of shopping options, street food stalls, and vibrant atmosphere.
Hanoi Weekend Night Market (Walking Street): A pedestrian-only street in the Old Quarter that turns into a vibrant night market during weekends, featuring street performances, live music, and a wide range of food and shopping options.
Lotte Center Hanoi Observation Deck: Located in one of Hanoi's tallest skyscrapers, the observation deck offers panoramic views of the city skyline, providing a unique perspective of Hanoi.
Keangnam Hanoi Landmark Tower: a soaring skyscraper in Hanoi, stands as a prominent symbol of modernity and luxury, housing a mix of residential, commercial, and entertainment facilities within its sleek and impressive structure.
Top 20 Activities
Explore the Old Quarter: Get lost in the bustling streets, experience the vibrant atmosphere, and sample delicious street food.
Visit Hoan Kiem Lake and Ngoc Son Temple: Take a leisurely stroll around the picturesque lake and visit the beautiful temple located on a small island.
Discover the history at the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum: Pay homage to Vietnam's beloved leader and learn about the country's history at this iconic landmark.
Wander through the Temple of Literature: Explore the ancient university and temple dedicated to Confucius, which is a symbol of education and learning.
Experience the Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre: Witness the traditional art form of water puppetry, showcasing captivating performances on the water.
Sample local cuisine on a street food tour: Dive into the culinary delights of Hanoi by embarking on a street food tour, trying dishes like pho, banh mi, and bun cha.
Visit the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology: Immerse yourself in the rich cultural diversity of Vietnam through exhibits and displays showcasing the country's ethnic groups.
Explore the Vietnam Women's Museum: Gain insights into the important roles and contributions of women in Vietnamese society through exhibits and stories.
Take a day trip to Ha L
ong Bay: Embark on a cruise and marvel at the breathtaking limestone karsts and emerald waters of this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Shop at Dong Xuan Market: Get a taste of the local shopping scene at this bustling market, where you can find everything from clothing and souvenirs to food and household items.
Visit the Hanoi Opera House: Admire the elegant French colonial architecture and catch a performance of opera, ballet, or traditional Vietnamese music.
Explore the French Quarter: Wander through the tree-lined boulevards, admire the colonial-era buildings, and indulge in French-inspired cuisine at charming cafes and restaurants.
Bike around West Lake: Rent a bicycle and take a leisurely ride along the scenic West Lake, enjoying the fresh air and beautiful views.
Discover the Hanoi Ceramic Mosaic Mural: Take a walk along the vibrant ceramic mural that stretches for several kilometers, depicting historical scenes and cultural motifs.
Visit the Museum of Vietnamese History: Delve into the rich history of Vietnam, from ancient times to the present, through fascinating artifacts and exhibitions.
Experience the Long Bien Bridge: Take a walk or bike ride across this historic bridge that spans the Red River, offering panoramic views of Hanoi and the river below.
Explore the Hanoi Railway Station: Capture the charm of Hanoi's train travel by observing the bustling activity and architecture of this historic railway station.
Relax at a traditional Vietnamese spa: Pamper yourself with a rejuvenating spa treatment, such as a Vietnamese massage or herbal bath, to unwind and recharge.
Take a day trip to the Perfume Pagoda: Journey outside of Hanoi to visit this beautiful complex of Buddhist temples nestled amidst picturesque mountains and caves.
Visit the Vietnam National Museum of Fine Arts: Explore a vast collection of Vietnamese art spanning different periods, from ancient to contemporary. The museum showcases a wide range of mediums including painting, sculpture, ceramics, and lacquerware, providing a comprehensive overview of Vietnam's artistic heritage.
Best Shopping
Hanoi offers a variety of shopping experiences to cater to different preferences. Here are some popular shopping destinations in Hanoi:
Old Quarter: Known for its narrow streets and bustling markets, the Old Quarter is a paradise for bargain hunters. Explore the vibrant street markets, such as Dong Xuan Market, Hang Da Market, and Night Market, where you can find a wide range of items including clothing, accessories, souvenirs, and local handicrafts.
Hang Gai Street (Silk Street): Located in the Old Quarter, Hang Gai Street is famous for its silk products, including high-quality silk garments, scarves, and accessories. It's an ideal place to shop for unique silk souvenirs and tailored clothing.
Hang Bong Street: Also situated in the Old Quarter, Hang Bong Street is known for its assortment of shops selling traditional Vietnamese handicrafts, lacquerware, embroidery, and silk products. It's a great place to find authentic Vietnamese crafts.
Trang Tien Plaza: Situated near Hoan Kiem Lake, Trang Tien Plaza is a modern shopping center that houses a variety of high-end brands, fashion boutiques, cosmetics, and electronics. It's a popular destination for those looking for upscale shopping experiences.
Lotte Center Hanoi: This skyscraper in Ba Dinh District is home to Lotte Department Store, where you can find a wide range of international brands, luxury goods, and a vast selection of products. The building also offers a panoramic view of the city from its observation deck.
Vincom Center: Located in Ba Trieu Street, Vincom Center is a large shopping complex featuring numerous shops, boutiques, and international brands. It also includes entertainment facilities, restaurants, and a cinema.
Dong Xuan Market: located in the heart of Hanoi's Old Quarter, is the city's largest indoor market, offering a wide range of products from clothing and accessories to fresh produce and souvenirs. With its bustling atmosphere, vibrant food market, and opportunities for bargaining, Dong Xuan Market provides a cultural immersion and a must-visit experience for shoppers looking to explore Hanoi's local trading culture.
Entertainment & Nightlife
Hanoi offers a vibrant and diverse nightlife scene that caters to a range of interests. Here are some key aspects of the nightlife in Hanoi:
Night Markets: Hanoi's night markets, such as the weekend Night Market in the Old Quarter, offer a lively and bustling atmosphere where you can shop for clothes, accessories, handicrafts, and sample street food delicacies.
Bars and Pubs: Hanoi has a growing number of bars and pubs that cater to locals and tourists alike. From trendy rooftop bars with panoramic views to cozy pubs serving craft beers and live music venues, there are plenty of options to enjoy a night out with friends.
Live Music: Hanoi's music scene is thriving, and you can find live performances in various genres, including jazz, rock, pop, and traditional Vietnamese music. Many bars and clubs feature talented local bands and musicians.
Nightclubs: Hanoi has a selection of nightclubs where you can dance the night away to a mix of international and local DJs playing a variety of music genres. These clubs often attract a younger crowd and offer a vibrant party atmosphere.
Cultural Shows: Enjoy traditional Vietnamese performing arts such as water puppetry, traditional dance, and live music performances at venues like the Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre and the Hanoi Opera House.
Bia Hoi Culture: Bia hoi refers to local establishments that serve fresh draft beer, often in small plastic chairs along the streets. It's a popular and affordable way to experience the local drinking culture and socialize with friends.
Late-night Street Food: Hanoi's street food scene comes alive at night, offering a plethora of options to satisfy your late-night cravings. From steaming bowls of pho to grilled meats and Vietnamese-style desserts, the city's street food stalls are a culinary delight.
It's important to note that Hanoi's nightlife has a curfew, and most venues close by midnight.
Local Cuisine
The local cuisine of Hanoi is renowned for its rich flavors, diverse ingredients, and distinct culinary traditions. Here are some highlights of the local cuisine in Hanoi:
Pho: Hanoi is famous for its pho, a flavorful noodle soup consisting of rice noodles, tender beef or chicken, and aromatic broth. Pho is typically served with fresh herbs, bean sprouts, lime, and chili for customizing the taste.
Bun Cha: A quintessential Hanoi dish, bun cha features grilled pork patties and slices of succulent pork belly served over vermicelli noodles, accompanied by a side of fresh herbs, pickled vegetables, and a dipping sauce.
Cha Ca: Cha Ca is a specialty of Hanoi, consisting of sizzling turmeric-marinated fish (usually snakehead fish) cooked tableside and served with rice noodles, fresh herbs, peanuts, and shrimp paste.
Banh Mi: Hanoi's version of the banh mi sandwich is beloved for its crusty French baguette filled with a variety of fillings, such as grilled pork, pate, cold cuts, pickled vegetables, herbs, and sauces. It's a perfect blend of Vietnamese and French culinary influences.
Xoi: Xoi is sticky rice cooked with various ingredients such as mung bean, chicken, or fried shallots. It's a popular breakfast dish that provides a warm and filling start to the day.
Cha Gio: These deep-fried spring rolls are filled with a mixture of minced pork, vegetables, and noodles. They are served with lettuce, herbs, and a dipping sauce, making them a delightful appetizer or snack.
Egg Coffee: Hanoi is known for its unique egg coffee (ca phe trung), where beaten egg yolks and condensed milk are whipped into a frothy, creamy topping over a cup of strong Vietnamese coffee. It's a sweet and indulgent drink worth trying.
Che: Che is a variety of sweet desserts and beverages in Vietnam. Hanoi offers a range of che, including che dau xanh (mung bean sweet soup), che troi nuoc (glutinous rice balls in ginger syrup), and che ba mau (three-color dessert).
Hanoi's local cuisine showcases a delightful balance of flavors, fresh ingredients, and culinary techniques that reflect the city's history and culture. Exploring the diverse range of dishes is an essential part of experiencing Hanoi's vibrant food culture.
Accommodations
Hanoi offers various areas for accommodation, each with its own unique charm and advantages. Here are some popular areas that are considered to be the best to stay in Hanoi:
Old Quarter: The Old Quarter is the historic heart of Hanoi and a bustling neighborhood known for its narrow streets, vibrant atmosphere, and rich cultural heritage. It offers a wide range of accommodations, from budget hostels to boutique hotels, and provides easy access to Hanoi's popular attractions, street food stalls, and shopping options.
French Quarter: Located southwest of the Old Quarter, the French Quarter showcases French colonial architecture and wide boulevards. It offers a more upscale and elegant atmosphere with luxury hotels, high-end dining options, and chic boutiques. The French Quarter is also within proximity to landmarks like the Hanoi Opera House and Hoan Kiem Lake.
Hoan Kiem District: This district encompasses the Old Quarter and the area around Hoan Kiem Lake. It's a central location with a mix of accommodations, ranging from budget-friendly to upscale. Staying in Hoan Kiem District puts you within walking distance of major attractions, dining establishments, and the picturesque Hoan Kiem Lake.
West Lake (Tay Ho District): Located northwest of the city center, West Lake offers a more tranquil and scenic setting. It's a popular area for expatriates and upscale residences. West Lake features a range of accommodations, including hotels with lake views, boutique guesthouses, and serviced apartments. The area offers a relaxed ambiance and is known for its lakeside cafes and international dining options.
Ba Dinh District: Ba Dinh is a governmental and administrative district that houses important landmarks such as the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, Presidential Palace, and the Vietnam Fine Arts Museum. It offers a mix of accommodations, including mid-range and luxury hotels. Ba Dinh District provides a quieter atmosphere compared to the bustling Old Quarter while still being relatively close to the city center.
When choosing the best area to stay in Hanoi, consider your preferences in terms of atmosphere, proximity to attractions, and budget. Each area has its own unique character and offers different experiences for travelers.
Itinerary
Exploring Hanoi in Three Days: A Journey Through History, Culture, and Modernity
Day 1: Explore Hanoi's Historic Sights
Morning
Start your day with a traditional Vietnamese breakfast, pho, a noodle soup with meat, and Vietnamese coffee.
Visit the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum Complex. The complex includes the Mausoleum, where the former leader's body is kept, the Presidential Palace, Ho Chi Minh's stilt house, and the One Pillar Pagoda.
Explore the nearby Imperial Citadel of Thang Long, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Afternoon
Have lunch at a local restaurant. Try bun cha, a popular dish in Hanoi.
Visit the Temple of Literature, dedicated to Confucius, it's a beautiful example of traditional Vietnamese architecture.
Take a walk around Hoan Kiem Lake and visit the Ngoc Son Temple located on an island in the lake.
Evening
Enjoy a performance at the Thang Long Water Puppet Theater.
Have dinner at a street food market, where you can try various local dishes.
Day 2: Experience the Old Quarter and Hanoi's Culture
Morning
Enjoy breakfast at your hotel or a local café.
Take a walking tour of the Old Quarter. Visit the Dong Xuan Market, the largest in Hanoi.
Discover the heritage house at 87 Ma May street, a well-preserved 19th-century house open to visitors.
Afternoon
Have lunch at a local restaurant in the Old Quarter. Try Banh Mi, a Vietnamese sandwich that's very popular in Hanoi.
Visit the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology to learn about Vietnam's 54 officially recognized ethnic groups.
Evening
Take a stroll around the West Lake and visit the Tran Quoc Pagoda, the oldest Buddhist temple in Hanoi.
Enjoy a dinner at a lakeside restaurant, trying out Cha Ca, a famous Hanoi specialty of grilled fish.
Day 3: Discover Hanoi's Art and Modern Side
Morning
Start your day with a breakfast of Banh Cuon, rolled rice pancakes filled with pork and mushrooms.
Visit the Vietnam Fine Arts Museum to see a collection of art that ranges from ancient to modern.
Head over to the Hoa Lo Prison Museum, known as the "Hanoi Hilton" during the Vietnam War.
Afternoon
Grab lunch at a local restaurant, sampling local cuisine.
Spend the afternoon at the Lotte Center Hanoi Observation Deck for panoramic views of the city.
Explore the trendy Tay Ho district, known for its contemporary art galleries and boutiques.
Evening
Dine at one of the chic restaurants in Tay Ho district.
End your visit with a cocktail at a rooftop bar overlooking the city.
