Vietnam Travel Guide – Top Things You Should Know When Travel To Ha Noi (The capital of Vietnam)

Immerse yourself in the captivating city of Hanoi, where history whispers from every French colonial building. Sizzling street food stalls overflow with local treats, tempting your taste buds with every aroma. A sea of scooters zips through vibrant streets, a constant hum of energy that pulsates through the heart of the city. Hanoi isn’t just a place to visit, it’s a place to be experienced. Every corner you turn unveils a new discovery, a hidden gem waiting to be explored. It’s a city that caters to every curiosity, offering endless possibilities to craft your own unforgettable adventure.

Best Time to Visit Hanoi

The ideal times to visit Hanoi are in the fall (from August to November) and spring (from March to April). Many believe that autumn is the most beautiful season, with clear blue skies, cool breezes, falling yellow leaves, and the scent of milk flowers in the air. Spring brings warm weather, and the city seems to renew itself as trees bud and flowers bloom.

Getting Around

Hanoi, often referred to as the heart of Vietnam, is easily accessible by plane, train, bus, car, or motorbike from other provinces. Within the city, you can travel by car, motorbike, or bicycle. However, for a more charming experience, consider riding a cyclo to see the 36 streets, taking a three-wheeled motorbike tour, or riding a classic Vespa. Another fun option is the double-decker bus, with ticket prices ranging from 130,000 to 599,000 VND.

Accommodation

Hanoi offers a wide range of accommodation options, from budget hostels and homestays to luxury hotels and resorts, catering to all budgets and preferences. In the Old Quarter, you can find everything from backpacker dorms for about 100,000 VND per night to high-end hotels costing 3,000,000 to 5,000,000 VND per night.

Notable hotels include the Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi, which features French colonial architecture and is a short walk from the Opera House; Hilton Hanoi Opera; Apricot Hotel by Hoan Kiem Lake; Sheraton Hanoi and InterContinental Hanoi Westlake with views of West Lake; and Lotte Hotel Hanoi located in the 65-story Lotte Center.

Sightseeing

  • Imperial Citadel of Thang Long: A UNESCO World Heritage Site in the heart of Hanoi with over 1,300 years of history, showcasing relics and artifacts from various eras of Vietnamese history. Address: 19C Hoang Dieu, Dien Bien, Ba Dinh.
  • Hoan Kiem Lake: A natural freshwater lake connects several streets in the Old Quarter, such as Hang Ngang, Hang Dao, Cau Go, and Luong Van Can, with the French-planned streets like Bao Khanh, Nha Tho, Trang Thi, and Dinh Tien Hoang. Enjoy the serene nature and visit Ngoc Son Temple and the Old Quarter.
  • Long Bien Bridge: Built in 1898, this bridge over the Red River connects the present with the past, serving as a historical landmark for Hanoi residents. It spans 1,682 meters with an additional 896 meters of approach spans, divided into nine sections each 61 meters long.
  • Tran Quoc Pagoda: Located on an island in West Lake, this 1,500-year-old pagoda is one of the most beautiful in the world and was a Buddhist center during the Ly and Tran dynasties. It was recognized as a national historical and cultural site in 1962.
  • Temple of Literature – Quoc Tu Giam: Vietnam’s first university, founded in 1070. Visitors can see ancient stone steles, serene courtyards with lotus ponds, and the iconic Khue Van Cac pavilion. It also holds 82 doctor steles, recognized by UNESCO as World Documentary Heritage.
  • Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum: A significant site for Vietnamese people, where visitors pay respects to President Ho Chi Minh. Visitors must remain silent, dress appropriately, and refrain from photography in restricted areas. The flag-raising ceremony in the morning and the flag-lowering ceremony at 9 PM are particularly solemn events.
  • One Pillar Pagoda: One of Hanoi’s oldest temples, originally built on a wooden pillar over 1,000 years ago, later replaced by a concrete pillar in the 1950s. Western tourists often visit this area for its beautiful and impressive surrounding architecture.
  • Old Quarter: Wander the streets of the Old Quarter to discover its nostalgic charm. Each street has its own specialty, from toys and shoes to clothes, antiques, and even motorbike parts. The experience is especially lively during rush hour.
  • Museums: Visiting museums and historical sites is essential in any city. Hanoi’s Ethnology Museum is a popular check-in spot, showcasing 15,000 artifacts, 42,000 film materials, photos, and thousands of documents on Vietnam’s 54 ethnic groups. Other notable museums include the Vietnamese Women’s Museum, Hanoi Museum, National Museum of Vietnamese History, and Hoa Lo Prison.

Other Attractions and Experiences in Ha Noi

Hanoi offers a diverse range of activities beyond sightseeing and museums that immerse visitors in its vibrant culture and history.

  • Street Food Tours: Hanoi is famous for its street food. Joining a street food tour is an excellent way to taste local delicacies such as pho (noodle soup), bun cha (grilled pork with noodles), banh mi (Vietnamese sandwich), and egg coffee. These tours often take you through bustling markets and hidden food stalls, providing an authentic culinary experience.
  • Shopping in Local Markets: Explore Hanoi’s bustling markets like Dong Xuan Market and Hang Da Market, where you can find everything from fresh produce and local specialties to souvenirs and clothing. Bargaining is common and part of the fun.
  • Nightlife: Hanoi’s nightlife offers a mix of traditional and modern entertainment. Visit Ta Hien Street, known as “Beer Street,” for a lively atmosphere with local bia hoi (draft beer) and street food. For a more upscale experience, check out rooftop bars and lounges with stunning views of the city.
  • Traditional Craft Villages: Take a day trip to nearby traditional craft villages such as Bat Trang (pottery), Van Phuc (silk), and Dong Ho (folk painting). These villages offer a glimpse into the artisanal skills passed down through generations and provide opportunities to purchase unique handmade items.
  • Cycling Tours: Join a cycling tour to explore the countryside around Hanoi. These tours often include visits to local villages, pagodas, and scenic spots, offering a peaceful contrast to the bustling city.
  • Cooking Classes: Participate in a cooking class to learn how to prepare traditional Vietnamese dishes. These classes typically start with a market tour to select fresh ingredients, followed by hands-on cooking instructions from local chefs.
  • Cultural Shows: Attend cultural shows such as traditional music performances, folk dances, and the famous Ca Tru singing at venues like the Hanoi Opera House and the Vietnam National Tuong Theatre.
  • Outdoor Activities: For outdoor enthusiasts, Hanoi offers several parks and lakes for leisure activities. Hoan Kiem Lake and West Lake are popular spots for jogging, walking, or simply enjoying the scenery. The Botanical Gardens and Lenin Park are also great places to unwind.
  • Day Trips from Hanoi: Consider taking day trips to nearby attractions like the Perfume Pagoda, Ba Vi National Park, or the ancient capital of Hoa Lu and the Tam Coc-Bich Dong area. These destinations offer stunning landscapes, historical sites, and opportunities for hiking and boat tours.
  • Hanoi is a city that seamlessly blends the old with the new, offering a rich tapestry of experiences for every traveler. Whether you’re exploring its historical sites, indulging in its culinary delights, or simply soaking in the vibrant street life, Hanoi promises a memorable and enriching visit.

Festivals and Events

Hanoi hosts numerous festivals and cultural events throughout the year, providing a deeper insight into Vietnamese traditions and celebrations.

  • Tet Nguyen Dan (Lunar New Year): Tet is the most significant holiday in Vietnam, usually falling in late January or early February. During this time, Hanoi is adorned with festive decorations, and locals participate in various cultural activities, family gatherings, and temple visits. Streets and markets become lively with flower markets and traditional performances.
  • Mid-Autumn Festival: Celebrated in September or October, this festival is marked by lantern processions, lion dances, and mooncakes. It’s a magical time, especially for children, who enjoy the vibrant festivities and traditional toys.
  • Hanoi International Film Festival: Held biennially, this event showcases a diverse range of films from around the world. It includes screenings, workshops, and discussions with filmmakers, providing a platform for cultural exchange and artistic expression.
  • Book Street Festival: An annual event for book lovers, held around April. It features book stalls, author talks, and literary activities, promoting reading culture and literacy.
  • Hanoi’s Historical Quarters: Wandering through Hanoi’s historical quarters provides a unique glimpse into the city’s past.
  • French Quarter: Characterized by wide boulevards and French colonial architecture, the French Quarter is home to landmarks such as the Hanoi Opera House, the Metropole Hotel, and numerous embassies. It’s a great area for a leisurely walk, offering a stark contrast to the hustle and bustle of the Old Quarter.
  • St. Joseph’s Cathedral located in the Old Quarter, this Neo-Gothic cathedral, built in 1886, resembles Notre-Dame de Paris. It’s a popular spot for both tourists and locals, especially during religious celebrations.
  • Quan Thanh Temple: A Taoist temple dedicated to Tran Vu, a principal deity in Taoism, located near West Lake. The temple is known for its beautiful architecture and serene atmosphere.
  • Tay Ho Pagoda: Situated on a peninsula in West Lake, this pagoda is dedicated to Mother Goddesses and is a significant site for local worshippers. It offers a peaceful retreat with picturesque views of the lake.

Practical Tips for Visitors

To make the most of your visit to Hanoi, consider these practical tips:

  • Language: While Vietnamese is the official language, many young people and those in the tourism industry speak some English. Learning a few basic Vietnamese phrases can enhance your experience.
  • Currency: The local currency is the Vietnamese Dong (VND). Cash is widely used, but credit cards are accepted in larger establishments.
  • Transportation: Traffic can be chaotic. Use reputable taxi services or ride-hailing apps like Grab for convenience and safety.
  • Health and Safety: Stay hydrated, especially in the hot and humid months. Be cautious with street food if you have a sensitive stomach, and consider travel insurance for peace of mind.
  • Hanoi is a city that offers a rich blend of history, culture, and modernity. Whether you’re exploring ancient temples, savoring street food, or enjoying the vibrant nightlife, there’s something for everyone in this dynamic city.