HANOI AT A GLANCE
CITY
Hanoi (Hà Nội)
COUNTRY
TIMEZONE
UTC+7 (ICT)
TRAIN
Hanoi Metro
BUS
Transerco (₫8000 VND / $0.32 USD)
TERRAIN
Neoclassical Urban Subtropics
WEATHER
Cool Season: 50ºF - 68ºF November to March / Hot Season: 77ºF - 104ºF April to August / Monsoon Season: 77ºF - 95ºF and Rainy June to October
AVERAGE MEAL COST
₫90000 VND / $3.6 USD
AVERAGE HOSTEL COST
₫180000 VND / $7.2 USD
LAST UPDATED
14/01/2024
Top Experiences in Hanoi, Vietnam
The Best Bites in Hanoi, Vietnam
LANDSCAPE
NOTABLE FEATURES
Hanoi, the capital city of Vietnam, is renowned for its rich history, cultural heritage, and vibrant street life. Steeped in centuries of history, Hanoi boasts well-preserved colonial architecture, ancient temples, and historic landmarks, such as the iconic Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and the Temple of Literature. The city is a hub of traditional Vietnamese art, literature, and cuisine, offering a tapestry of flavors in its bustling markets and street food stalls. Hanoi is also known for its picturesque lakes, including the central Hoan Kiem Lake, providing serene escapes within the urban landscape. With a distinct blend of old-world charm and modern dynamism, Hanoi stands as a testament to Vietnam's resilience, cultural richness, and its position as a dynamic center of economic and social activity.
ACTIVITIES
Popular Activities
Explore the Old Quarter: Wander through the narrow streets of Hanoi's Old Quarter, known for its centuries-old architecture, vibrant markets, and traditional crafts.
Visit Hoan Kiem Lake: Enjoy the scenic beauty of Hoan Kiem Lake, a central landmark surrounded by historical sites, temples, and the iconic red bridge to Ngoc Son Temple.
Tour the Ho Chi Minh Complex: Explore the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, Ho Chi Minh's Stilt House, and the One Pillar Pagoda, significant sites honoring Vietnam's founding leader.
Discover the Temple of Literature: Visit the Temple of Literature, Vietnam's first university, and admire its well-preserved traditional architecture and beautiful gardens.
Sample Street Food: Indulge in Hanoi's diverse street food scene. Try local specialties like pho, bun cha, and banh mi from street vendors and local eateries.
Attend a Water Puppet Show: Experience the unique Vietnamese art form of water puppetry at Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre, showcasing traditional stories accompanied by live music.
Visit the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology: Gain insights into Vietnam's diverse ethnic groups and cultures through exhibits and artifacts at this insightful museum.
Explore the French Quarter: Admire colonial architecture, visit the Opera House, and stroll along wide boulevards in Hanoi's French Quarter, reflecting the city's French colonial influence.
Shop at Dong Xuan Market: Dive into the bustling atmosphere of Dong Xuan Market, one of the city's largest indoor markets, offering a wide array of goods and local products.
Take a Cyclo Ride: Experience Hanoi from a unique perspective by taking a cyclo (pedicab) ride, allowing you to leisurely explore the city's streets.
Visit the Hanoi Opera House: Appreciate the architectural beauty of the Hanoi Opera House and, if possible, catch a performance showcasing Vietnamese and international arts.
Participate in a Cooking Class: Immerse yourself in Vietnamese cuisine by joining a cooking class to learn the art of preparing traditional dishes and understanding the local culinary culture.
Underrated Destinations
Explore the Old Quarter: Wander through the narrow streets of Hanoi's Old Quarter, known for its centuries-old architecture, vibrant markets, and traditional crafts.
Visit Hoan Kiem Lake: Enjoy the scenic beauty of Hoan Kiem Lake, a central landmark surrounded by historical sites, temples, and the iconic red bridge to Ngoc Son Temple.
Tour the Ho Chi Minh Complex: Explore the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, Ho Chi Minh's Stilt House, and the One Pillar Pagoda, significant sites honoring Vietnam's founding leader.
Discover the Temple of Literature: Visit the Temple of Literature, Vietnam's first university, and admire its well-preserved traditional architecture and beautiful gardens.
Sample Street Food: Indulge in Hanoi's diverse street food scene. Try local specialties like pho, bun cha, and banh mi from street vendors and local eateries.
Attend a Water Puppet Show: Experience the unique Vietnamese art form of water puppetry at Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre, showcasing traditional stories accompanied by live music.
Visit the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology: Gain insights into Vietnam's diverse ethnic groups and cultures through exhibits and artifacts at this insightful museum.
Explore the French Quarter: Admire colonial architecture, visit the Opera House, and stroll along wide boulevards in Hanoi's French Quarter, reflecting the city's French colonial influence.
Shop at Dong Xuan Market: Dive into the bustling atmosphere of Dong Xuan Market, one of the city's largest indoor markets, offering a wide array of goods and local products.
Take a Cyclo Ride: Experience Hanoi from a unique perspective by taking a cyclo (pedicab) ride, allowing you to leisurely explore the city's streets.
Visit the Hanoi Opera House: Appreciate the architectural beauty of the Hanoi Opera House and, if possible, catch a performance showcasing Vietnamese and international arts.
Participate in a Cooking Class: Immerse yourself in Vietnamese cuisine by joining a cooking class to learn the art of preparing traditional dishes and understanding the local culinary culture.
NEIGHBORHOODS
Old Quarter: The heart of Hanoi, known for its ancient streets, bustling markets, and traditional architecture. It's a vibrant and historic area with narrow lanes and a lively atmosphere.
French Quarter: Reflecting Hanoi's colonial history, this part of the city features wide boulevards, grand architecture, and landmarks like the Hanoi Opera House.
Ba Dinh District: Home to the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, the Presidential Palace, and important government buildings. Ba Dinh is a significant political and historical center.
Hoan Kiem District: Encompassing Hoan Kiem Lake, this district is a popular recreational area with scenic landscapes, historical sites, and a blend of traditional and modern elements.
Tay Ho District (West Lake): Surrounding the largest freshwater lake in Hanoi, Tay Ho offers a more relaxed atmosphere, upscale neighborhoods, and a variety of dining and entertainment options.
Dong Da District: Known for the Temple of Literature and other historical landmarks, Dong Da is a cultural hub with a mix of traditional and contemporary elements.
Cau Giay District: A rapidly developing area, home to modern businesses, universities, and residential complexes. It reflects Hanoi's growth and urbanization.
Hai Ba Trung District: A dynamic district with a mix of commercial and residential areas, offering shopping centers, cultural attractions, and a lively urban environment.
Thanh Xuan District: Known for its educational institutions, Thanh Xuan is a diverse district with a combination of residential neighborhoods and commercial establishments.
Gia Lam District: Located to the northeast, Gia Lam is known for its historical sites, including the ancient Co Loa Citadel, and a mix of rural and urban landscapes.