Hanoi, Vietnam

Hanoi Travel Guide

Places to Go

Historic Sites

  • Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum: The final resting place of Vietnam’s beloved leader. Open from 8am-11:30am daily, except Mondays and Fridays.
  • Presidential Palace: The former residence of the President of Vietnam. Guided tours available in English.
  • One Pillar Pagoda: A historic pagoda built in 1049 AD to commemorate a miracle pregnancy of Emperor Ly Thai To’s wife.

Cultural Attractions

  • Temple of Literature: A temple dedicated to Confucius and Vietnam’s education system. Home to the first university in Vietnam, established in 1076 AD.
  • Vietnam National Museum of Fine Arts: Showcasing a collection of Vietnamese art from ancient times to the present day.
  • Hanoi Opera House: A stunning example of French colonial architecture, now serving as an opera house and concert venue.

Markets

  • Old Quarter Market: A bustling marketplace selling everything from souvenirs to fresh produce. Don’t miss the street food stalls!
  • Dong Xuan Market: Another popular market in the Old Quarter, offering a wide range of goods, including clothing, electronics, and home decor.
  • Long Bien Market: A local market selling fresh produce, meat, and seafood.

Parks

  • Hoan Kiem Lake: A peaceful oasis in the heart of Hanoi. Take a walk around the lake or rent a boat to explore.
  • Tay Ho Park: A large park with walking trails, picnic areas, and plenty of green space for a relaxing stroll.

Activities

Food

  • Cooking Class: Learn how to make traditional Vietnamese dishes like pho, spring rolls, and banh mi at one of the many cooking schools in Hanoi.
  • Food Tours: Join a guided food tour to sample the best street food and local specialties.
  • Dining Experiences: Try some of the world-class dining experiences offered by restaurants like The Gourmet Corner or Golden Spoon.

Shopping

  • Old Quarter Shopping: Get lost in the narrow streets of the Old Quarter, where you’ll find everything from souvenirs to high-end fashion boutiques.
  • Dong Xuan Market Shopping: Browse through the stalls at Dong Xuan Market for unique and affordable shopping options.
  • Local Artisans: Visit local artisans selling handmade crafts like woodcarvings, pottery, or textiles.

Relaxation

  • Massage Therapy: Treat yourself to a rejuvenating massage therapy session at one of the many spas in Hanoi.
  • Yoga Studios: Find peace with yoga classes offered by numerous studios throughout the city.
  • Relaxing Cafes: Unwind at one of the cozy cafes serving coffee, tea, and delicious pastries.

Where to Eat

Street Food

  • Banh Cuon: Try these delicate rice flour crepes filled with shrimp, pork, or vegetables.
  • Pho: Enjoy a steaming bowl of Vietnam’s national dish at one of the many pho stalls throughout Hanoi.
  • Bun Cha: Savor grilled pork served with rice noodles and herbs.

Restaurants

  • The Gourmet Corner: A high-end restaurant serving modern Vietnamese cuisine in an elegant setting.
  • Golden Spoon: Enjoy authentic Vietnamese dishes with a twist at this popular restaurant.
  • Hanoi Social Club: Experience the fusion of international flavors and local ingredients at this stylish eatery.

Where to Stay

Luxury Hotels

  • The Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi: A stunning colonial-style hotel offering luxurious rooms and excellent service.
  • The Four Seasons Hotel Hanoi: Enjoy world-class accommodations, dining, and spa facilities in the heart of the city.
  • The InterContinental Hanoi Westlake: Relax in this beautiful lakeside hotel with elegant rooms and a golf course.

Boutique Hotels

  • The Essence Hanoi Spa & Luxury Hotel: Experience a tranquil oasis amidst the bustling streets of Hanoi.
  • The Apricot Hotel: Discover a hidden gem offering cozy rooms, a courtyard garden, and excellent service.
  • The Artisan’s Village: Immerse yourself in a unique boutique hotel experience with private bungalows and a relaxing atmosphere.

Things to Know

Weather

  • Summer (June-August): Hot and humid weather; temperatures can reach up to 35°C (95°F).
  • Autumn (September-November): Pleasant weather with moderate temperatures, ideal for sightseeing.
  • Winter (December-February): Cooler temperatures, averaging around 15°C (59°F); a great time for indoor activities.

Safety

  • Petty Theft: Be mindful of pickpocketing and petty theft in crowded areas like markets or tourist hotspots.
  • Traffic: Exercise caution when crossing streets; traffic rules are not always followed by locals.
  • Medical Care: In case of an emergency, seek medical attention at a reputable hospital like the Bach Mai Hospital.

Language

  • Vietnamese: The official language of Vietnam; try to learn basic phrases like “Xin chào” (hello) and “Cảm ơn” (thank you).
  • English: Widely spoken among locals, especially in tourist areas; many restaurants and hotels also offer English-speaking staff.

Transportation

Taxi Services

  • Grab Taxi: A popular ride-hailing service offering affordable fares.
  • Hanoi Taxi: Try this reliable taxi service with reasonable prices.
  • Mai Linh Taxi: Another reputable taxi company operating in Hanoi.

Public Transportation

  • Bus System: Use the convenient and affordable public bus system to get around the city.
  • Motorbike Taxi: Take a motorbike taxi for short trips or to navigate through heavy traffic.
  • Walking: Explore on foot, especially in pedestrian-friendly areas like Old Quarter streets.

Tips

Bargaining

  • Haggle: Learn how to negotiate prices when shopping at markets or from street vendors.
  • Be Firm: Don’t be afraid to walk away if you don’t get the price you want.

Food Etiquette

  • Try Local Cuisine: Be adventurous and try new dishes, but also respect local eating customs.
  • Eat with Chopsticks: Practice using chopsticks to avoid offending locals who use them daily.

Respect Culture**

  • Dress Modestly: Dress conservatively when visiting temples or attending cultural events.
  • Remove Shoes: Remove your shoes before entering homes or some traditional buildings.