Hanoi, Vietnam’s capital, effortlessly combines centuries-old history with the energetic pulse of modern city life. A place of rich traditions, Hanoi enchants visitors with its leafy boulevards, crumbling colonial facades, and vibrant street scenes. The Old Quarter is a sensory overload—vendors balanced on bicycles weave through narrow lanes while the scent of pho and grilled meats drifts from curbside kitchens.
The city is home to several iconic landmarks and must-see attractions. At Hoan Kiem Lake, an oasis in the city center, locals and tourists gather at dawn and dusk to walk, relax, or watch performances. The Temple of Literature offers a glimpse into Vietnam’s scholarly past, while the imposing Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum draws visitors seeking to learn more about the country’s revered leader. Hanoi’s museums—like the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology and the Hoa Lo Prison—share fascinating (and sometimes sobering) stories from Vietnam’s tumultuous past.
Hanoi's charm reveals itself in the details, from ancient pagodas to lively markets and an ever-present chorus of scooter horns. Sidewalk cafés serve potent egg coffee and bia hoi (fresh draft beer), and each district offers its own unique flavor, from the stylish boutiques of the French Quarter to the artistic hub of Truc Bach. Evenings are abuzz with street food delights—a steaming bowl of bun cha, crispy banh cuon, or a stack of savory pancakes. The local lifestyle is communal and energetic, making it easy for visitors to soak up authentic Vietnamese culture.
Getting around can be an adventure; taxis, cyclos, and ride apps like Grab make most attractions accessible, and the city’s growing metro network is also handy. Accommodation is plentiful, ranging from high-end hotels with lakeside views to charming guesthouses tucked into alleyways. Eating out is affordable and found everywhere, with options for every palate—from bustling family-run spots to sleek rooftop lounges with city views.
The best time to visit Hanoi is in the fall (September to November) or spring (March to April), when weather is mild and pleasant. Summers can be hot and humid, while winters are cool but rarely cold. Start your day early to experience the true rhythm of the city, and don’t be afraid to wander side streets—you’ll be rewarded with unexpected discoveries and some of the city’s best eats.
The city is home to several iconic landmarks and must-see attractions. At Hoan Kiem Lake, an oasis in the city center, locals and tourists gather at dawn and dusk to walk, relax, or watch performances. The Temple of Literature offers a glimpse into Vietnam’s scholarly past, while the imposing Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum draws visitors seeking to learn more about the country’s revered leader. Hanoi’s museums—like the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology and the Hoa Lo Prison—share fascinating (and sometimes sobering) stories from Vietnam’s tumultuous past.
Hanoi's charm reveals itself in the details, from ancient pagodas to lively markets and an ever-present chorus of scooter horns. Sidewalk cafés serve potent egg coffee and bia hoi (fresh draft beer), and each district offers its own unique flavor, from the stylish boutiques of the French Quarter to the artistic hub of Truc Bach. Evenings are abuzz with street food delights—a steaming bowl of bun cha, crispy banh cuon, or a stack of savory pancakes. The local lifestyle is communal and energetic, making it easy for visitors to soak up authentic Vietnamese culture.
Getting around can be an adventure; taxis, cyclos, and ride apps like Grab make most attractions accessible, and the city’s growing metro network is also handy. Accommodation is plentiful, ranging from high-end hotels with lakeside views to charming guesthouses tucked into alleyways. Eating out is affordable and found everywhere, with options for every palate—from bustling family-run spots to sleek rooftop lounges with city views.
The best time to visit Hanoi is in the fall (September to November) or spring (March to April), when weather is mild and pleasant. Summers can be hot and humid, while winters are cool but rarely cold. Start your day early to experience the true rhythm of the city, and don’t be afraid to wander side streets—you’ll be rewarded with unexpected discoveries and some of the city’s best eats.
Expected Weekly Budget
$400-$800 USD (per person, excluding flights)
Known For
Things to Do
- Stroll through the Old Quarter and sample street food
- Watch a water puppet show near Hoan Kiem Lake
- Visit the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum complex
- Explore the Temple of Literature
- Wander around the French Quarter and admire colonial architecture
- Shop at Dong Xuan Market
- Take a cyclo ride around the city center
- Relax with a traditional Vietnamese coffee at a local café
Notable Sites
- Hoan Kiem Lake
- Old Quarter
- Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum
- Temple of Literature
- Vietnam Museum of Ethnology
- Hoa Lo Prison (Maison Centrale)
- St. Joseph’s Cathedral
- West Lake
General Advice
Prepare for an immersive experience—Hanoi is lively and sometimes chaotic, but endlessly rewarding. Give yourself 3–5 days to explore the city at a relaxed pace, and consider day trips to areas like the Perfume Pagoda or Bat Trang pottery village if time allows. Respect local customs, especially at temples, and dress modestly in religious sites. English is widely spoken in tourist areas, but a few words of Vietnamese and a friendly smile go a long way.
Security & Safety
While Hanoi is generally safe, petty theft such as pickpocketing and bag snatching can occur in crowded areas, markets, and tourist hotspots. Keep your belongings secure, be aware of your surroundings, and avoid using your phone while walking near busy roads. Only use official taxis or reputable ride-hailing apps, and confirm the price before setting off to avoid scams. At night, stick to well-lit streets and exercise the usual caution if exploring quieter neighborhoods.
Travel Tips
- Carry small change for markets and taxis, as larger bills are sometimes hard to break.
- Crossing the road can be daunting—walk steadily and let the scooters navigate around you.
- Tap water is not safe to drink; stick to bottled or boiled water.
- Try different kinds of local street food, but eat where there is a steady flow of locals for freshness.
- Traffic can be heavy, so allow extra time for getting around, especially during rush hours.
- Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; rounding up the bill or leaving small change is common.
- Lightweight clothing for the humid climate is ideal, but carry a light jacket for cooler winter evenings.
- Download an offline map app for easier navigation, as not all streets are well signed in English.
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Traveler Comments
Visited in April 2024
I absolutely loved exploring Hanoi’s Old Quarter—the smells, the food, and the people made every turn exciting. The traffic is wild, but once you get used to it, crossing the road becomes less terrifying. My favorite was sitting by Hoan Kiem Lake early in the morning, watching locals exercise.
Traveled here in October 2023
History buffs will really appreciate the museums and all the colonial architecture. The city can feel busy and a bit noisy, especially at rush hour, but it's all part of Hanoi’s character. Street food is fantastic—definitely try bun cha!
Stayed in January 2024
As a Vietnamese expat visiting home, I was struck by how much the city continues to change while keeping its traditional charm. Loved showing my kids the Temple of Literature and the water puppet theatre. The food carts in the Old Quarter brought back so many childhood memories.
Visited in December 2023
Amazing street food, incredible history, and friendly locals. We stayed near West Lake and enjoyed the quieter pace in the evenings. Only challenge was the air quality—some days were quite hazy.
Traveled here in May 2024
Went solo for a photography trip and the city didn’t disappoint: fascinating faces, small alleyways, and so much street life to capture. The museums were well worth a visit, but my highlight was just wandering with my camera. Bring comfortable shoes!
Visited in March 2024
Came with my partner and spent our days hopping between old temples and cafés. The egg coffee blew my mind! Give yourself extra time to just get lost—a lot of the best finds are far from the main roads. Old Quarter can get crowded but has such a great vibe.
Stayed in February 2024
Hanoi’s energy is unlike anywhere else. The night market near Dong Xuan was a lot of fun, and everyone we met was eager to help. Despite the chaos, I always felt safe and welcomed.
Visited in June 2024
Traveled with my family and kids—they loved the water puppet show and exploring Hoan Kiem Lake. Food is affordable and delicious, but the traffic noise was a challenge at night for our youngest. Bring earplugs if you’re a light sleeper.
Traveled here in November 2023
The history and food are incredible, but I found the air quality tough in autumn. Still, the museums and pagodas are worth the trip. If you're sensitive to pollution, check the air before heading out.
Visited in September 2023
Hanoi is lively and colorful. I loved the French Quarter and trying all sorts of street snacks. It rained a few afternoons, so bring a small umbrella. People were friendly even if English wasn’t always spoken.
Visited in May 2024
Took a cyclo tour around the Old Quarter and it was a great way to get oriented. The Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum was interesting—very different from Western museums. Traffic was hectic but surprisingly organized in its own way.
Traveled here in March 2024
I spent a whole afternoon at the Temple of Literature—such a peaceful spot right in the city. I loved indulging in street food and egg coffee. Everyone was welcoming and helped me practice a few Vietnamese phrases.
Stayed in August 2023
Visited during the rainy season, so some days were hot and humid, but the rain brought relief and made the city shine. Flea markets and roadside grills made for memorable evenings. Wish public transport covered more areas, but taxis are easy enough.
Visited in February 2024
Lunar New Year in Hanoi was unforgettable. The temples and streets were decorated, and people celebrated everywhere. Markets were packed and full of energy—we joined in the festivities and felt right at home.
Traveled here in March 2023
Hanoi can get really busy, and sometimes it felt overwhelming for me. But the Old Quarter markets were fun, and I loved sampling different coffees. I suggest planning breaks to relax by Hoan Kiem Lake if crowds get too much.
Visited in December 2023
Fascinated by the history around every corner. Enjoyed learning about Vietnam’s past at Hoa Lo Prison and walking along West Lake at sunset. Very good value for money for food and accommodation.
Traveled here in May 2024
Took a cooking class with locals and it was such a highlight. Loved walking markets in the early morning hours. If you love culture and food experiences, Hanoi is hard to beat.
Stayed in October 2023
The French colonial buildings and narrow alleys gave the city an intriguing start for my Vietnam trip. Some places close early compared to Europe, so plan evening outings in advance. Still, lots to see if you like exploring on foot.
Visited in January 2024
Great for families—we took our kids to several parks and they enjoyed the puppet theatre near the lake. Crossing streets was challenging at first, but we learned quickly. Hanoi is authentic and vibrant, really different from other Asian capitals we’ve visited.
Traveled here in April 2024
My wife and I loved wandering without a plan. Every corner had something surprising—tiny art galleries, street musicians, or just locals playing chess by the lake. We can’t wait to return and see even more.
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