Hanoi Travel Guide: 9 Must-Knows to Save Before Your Trip [2024 UPDATED]

Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam, is often a must-visit destination during a tour of Vietnam, especially if you plan to explore the northern part of the country. As the historic birthplace of the nation, Hanoi retains its distinctive ambiance, and its food scene is one of the finest in Southeast Asia, ensuring an exceptional stay. In this article, we will provide you with tour ideas, activities, and a comprehensive guide to fully enjoy your stay in Hanoi.

Written by Daphne Ha (Travel Blogger) Updated on 23-04-2024

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1. Hanoi's location and its history

Hanoi is situated in the heart of northern Vietnam, bordering the northern part of the country and adjacent to the north by the Red River, originating in the Yunnan Mountains of China.

Approximately 200 km east of the Vietnamese capital lies Halong Bay, an inlet of the Pacific Ocean, with Halong Bay on land located 100 km south of Hanoi. To the west and northeast of Hanoi are mountainous regions.

Hanoi is conveniently located for travel to other major cities. It takes approximately an hour to fly to Da Nang, the capital of the central region, and about an hour and 45 minutes to reach Ho Chi Minh City. Hanoi is also easily accessible from major cities in the region, such as Bangkok, Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, Hong Kong, with flight durations ranging from 2 to 3 hours.

2. What is Hanoi like?

First and foremost, Hanoi is a historic city that has held various names throughout its long history. The name 'Hanoi' first appeared in 1831 during the reign of King Minh Mang. This name translates to 'city within the river' because, at that time, Hanoi was situated amidst three rivers: the Red River, the Nhue River, and the Day River.

Hanoi boasts remarkable monuments and architecture, bearing witness to its exceptional cultural significance. The city has experienced pivotal periods and played a pivotal role in the nation's history. Occupying a central and influential position, Hanoi serves as Vietnam's political, cultural, and economic hub.

Furthermore, Hanoi is a city of contrasts. It offers a captivating blend of the past and the present, where tradition and modernity harmoniously coexist. The old neighborhoods, characterized by their baroque buildings and colonial architecture, seamlessly blend with contemporary structures. This city enchants visitors with its ancient and serene atmosphere, setting it apart from the bustling energy of Ho Chi Minh City, the 'capital' of the south.

3. What are the must-see sights in Hanoi capital?

• Hoan Kiem Lake - The Lake of the Restored Sword

Hoan Kiem Lake, also known as Ho Guom Lake, is a central must-see attraction in Hanoi. At the heart of the lake lies Turtle Islet, which is closely associated with a captivating legend. According to this legend, King Ly Thai To received a sacred sword from the Turtle Spirit, enabling him to defend the country against Chinese invaders. Turtle Islet is home to the Turtle Tower, an iconic symbol of Hanoi and Vietnam.

Another islet within Hoan Kiem Lake is home to the Jade Mountain Temple. This temple was constructed to honor the Turtle Spirit and represents the harmony among Confucianism, Buddhism, and Taoism, the three major Vietnamese religions. Within this complex, you will discover distinctive structures such as the Inkwell (Dai Nghien), Pen Tower (Thap But), and Rising Sun Bridge (The Huc).

• The Old Quarter of Hanoi

The Old Quarter of Hanoi has been steeped in fascinating history since the Ly dynasty in the 11th century, bustling with numerous artisanal and commercial activities, pulsating to the rhythm of daily life.

This historic neighborhood, known as the "Hanoi 36 Streets and Corporations," reflects its past trade specialties in street names. Hang Trong featured traditional drum makers, Hang Tre highlighted bamboo craftsmanship, and Hang Dong boasted skilled copper artisans.

Nestled within the Old Quarter is the Dong Xuan Market, one of the capital's oldest markets. Constructed in 1889 during the era of French colonization, it is a must-visit destination during your stay."

• Hoa Lo Prison 

You should definitely make a visit to Hoa Lo Prison, also known as the 'Hanoi Hilton' to Americans. It offers much more than you might expect, with a history that spans far beyond the Vietnam (American) War. Exploring this site will provide you with a fascinating perspective on Vietnam's past.

Opening hours: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM daily, with a separate event called "Hỏa Lò Sacred Night." To visit Hoa Lo Prison, please book in advance or contact them via their website: https://www.facebook.com/hoaloprisonrelic/

• St. Joseph's Cathedral

This iconic cathedral, dating back to the late 19th century, boasts remarkable Gothic-style architecture that is sure to impress you. This is one of the first Western architectural works built in Hanoi.

• Train Street in Hanoi

Train Street is a timeless beauty in the heart of the capital, weaving its way through the streets of Hanoi's Old Quarter since the 20th century, dating back to the era of French colonization. For many years, the trains have peacefully and harmoniously coexisted with the rhythm of this place.

This part of Hanoi boasts an architectural blend that seamlessly combines old and modern houses. The resulting array of different colors creates a 'vintage' atmosphere at every corner, offering a striking image.

• The Temple of Literature

The Temple of Literature, also known as Quoc Tu Giam, was constructed in 1070 during the reign of King Ly Thanh Tong. It stands as a monumental complex of great significance, comprising the Temple of Literature, dedicated to the veneration of Confucius and Confucian sages, and Quoc Tu Giam, Vietnam's first university.

This esteemed structure is home to the renowned stone turtles bearing the 82 steles of the Doctors, which bear witness to the knowledge and wisdom of the Vietnamese from the past. The Temple of Literature serves as a testament to the enduring importance placed on education, wisdom, and the promotion of moral values within Vietnamese society throughout the centuries.

• The Thang Long Imperial Citadel

The Thang Long Imperial Citadel is a collection of historical relics associated with the history of the Thang Long Citadel in Hanoi. This remarkable architectural ensemble was constructed by various kings throughout different historical epochs and has evolved into the most significant monument in Vietnam, with a history spanning over 13 centuries.

In 2010, UNESCO designated the Thang Long Imperial Citadel in Hanoi as a World Cultural Heritage site.

• Vietnamese Women's Museum

The Vietnamese Women's Museum attracts thousands of visitors each year. Here, visitors will learn and discover stories related to Vietnamese Women in the past and present, which are expressed vividly through displays about rituals and customs of marriage and their lives. Sometimes viewers are reminded of memories of war, or simply share the joy and excitement through products imbued with ethnic cultural values ​​from creative, talented hands. of the woman displayed in the Museum.

• Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and Its Complex

Ho Chi Minh, the founding father of the Democratic Republic of Vietnam and a revered national hero, is commemorated in various ways throughout the Ba Dinh district. His Mausoleum, an imposing structure made of gray granite, houses his tomb, which is protected by a glass sarcophagus. It is open to the public for pilgrimages and tourist visits.

• The Museum of Ethnography

The Hanoi Ethnography Museum is a captivating destination that showcases the traditions and cultures of Vietnam's 54 ethnic groups. Detailed exhibits featuring each ethnic group, recreated traditional houses, artisanal and ritual objects, as well as festival information, offer an immersive experience into the cultural diversity of Vietnam. Interactive activities allow visitors to actively engage in this cultural exploration. It is an indispensable location for discovering the wealth of Vietnamese traditions. 

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• French Architectural Heritage in Hanoi

Prominent examples of French colonial architecture include the historic Paul Doumer Bridge, now known as the Long Bien Bridge, the ornate Hanoi Opera House, the opulent Metropole Hotel, the austere Saint Joseph Cathedral, the majestic Presidential Palace, and the former Museum of the French School of the Far East, now housing the Vietnam History Museum. 

4. Hanoi Neighborhoods to Explore?

Must-See Destinations in the Hanoi Suburbs: Authentic Villages with Bold Traditions, Home to Thousands of Vietnamese. These peaceful, genuine, and rustic villages transport you to a one-of-a-kind atmosphere.

Ancient Duong Lam Village and Its Surrounding Rice Fields

Duong Lam village boasts architectural treasures dating back 400 years, including a captivating gateway, a communal house, and religious sites. A stroll or bike ride through the pagodas and private houses takes you on a journey back in time. You can seize the opportunity to engage in delightful conversations with the local residents and explore the rice, cassava, and corn fields. This locale is the ideal place to immerse yourself in the traditional bucolic life of the Red River Delta.

Craft Villages Around Hanoi

Hanoi is encircled by ancient artisan villages that were once renowned for various trades. Some of these villages have preserved their traditional crafts to this day. To immerse yourself in the rich culture of North Vietnam, do not miss these exceptional villages:

• Bat Trang village, with over five centuries of association with ceramics, offers magnificent pottery and earthenware. You can even try your hand at making your own vase!

• Dong Ho village is renowned for its paintings and woodcuts.
• Van Phuc village is famous for its silk fabric production workshops and skilled artisan weavers.
• Gia Lam Train Factory - a place to "awaken" heritage, creating a new value system to serve the development of the Capital's culture

• Quang Phu Cau Incense Village is celebrated for its century-old tradition of crafting incense sticks. Adorned in the emblematic colors of the Orient—yellow and red—Quang Phu Cau incense sticks evoke fascination and admiration.

5. What to do in Hanoi in the evening?

Water Puppet Show

An essential addition to your Hanoi itinerary is attending a water puppet show, an ancient Vietnamese art form dating back to the 11th century. Skilled puppeteers manipulate wooden puppets behind a curtain, creating expressive movements on the water's surface. These puppets narrate legends, tales, and national history, recognized by UNESCO as intangible cultural heritage.

The Thang Long Water Puppet Theater, conveniently situated near Hoan Kiem Lake, has operated since 1969, offering an original and captivating show rooted in a tradition spanning over a thousand years. Watching a water puppet show is an ideal evening activity in Hanoi, providing a deeper appreciation of Vietnam's unique art and culture.

You can book your ticket through the website of Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre, ticket prices typically range from 100,000 VND to 200,000 VND (approximately $5 to $10).

If you are interested in nocturnal life in Hanoi, why not check out Unmissable Night Tours in Hanoi?

The Quintessence of Tonkin 

The Quintessence of Tonkin, known as Tinh Hoa Bac Bo in Vietnamese, stands as Vietnam's premier live show. Since its debut in 2017, it has left a lasting impression on audiences and visitors alike with its grand stage, state-of-the-art techniques, and vast ensemble of performers. After a three-year hiatus, Tinh Hoa Bac Bo has returned, reclaiming its status as a must-see attraction with renewed fervor.

Website: https://www.facebook.com/thequintessenceoftonkin/

Bustling Ta Hien Street

Ta Hien Street is a lively destination in the Vietnamese capital, especially in the evening. Located in Hanoi's Old Quarter, this lively street boasts numerous bars, restaurants, and establishments offering delicious Vietnamese beer. As night falls, Ta Hien Street undergoes a dazzling transformation, with illuminated shops and tables set up on the street, creating a convivial atmosphere. It's a must-visit for immersing yourself in the authentic Vietnamese street vibe. If you love Ta Hien Street, trust us, you will love the liveliness of Hanoi Train Street too.

6. The best local Food and Drink in Hanoi

Exploring the traditional dishes and beverages that are characteristic of Hanoi, whether from beloved street stalls or renowned Michelin-starred restaurants, is an unforgettable gastronomic journey and a deep dive into the local culture. Here are some quintessential dishes and drinks you shouldn't miss:

• Pho: An iconic dish of Vietnamese cuisine, Phở is a rice noodle soup served with beef or chicken, fresh herbs, bean sprouts, and condiments such as fish sauce and chili.
• Bun cha: A grilled meat dish made from marinated pork, served with rice vermicelli, fresh vegetables, and a special sauce.
• Nem: Small, fried, and crispy spring rolls stuffed with minced meat, shrimp, vegetables, and spices.
• Banh cuon: Rice pancakes filled with ground pork, mushrooms, and onions, served with fresh herbs and a slightly sweet sauce.
• Cha ca La Vong: Marinated fish fillets pan-fried with dill, onions, and peanuts, served with rice noodles, vermicelli, fresh herbs, and a spicy sauce.
• Bia Hoi: A highly popular local beer in Hanoi, brewed daily and served cold in street bars, perfectly complementing Vietnamese dishes.
• Ca phe trung: Also known as "egg coffee," this unique Hanoi beverage is prepared with strong coffee, condensed milk, and egg yolks, resulting in a creamy texture.

>>>Explore more:

• 10 Best Restaurants and Places to Enjoy Cuisine in Hanoi [2024 UPDATED]
• Discover the Top Vietnamese Dishes to Try in Each Region!

7. Some practical tips for tourists in Hanoi.

• Hanoi is most beautiful at night. You can go for a motorride to Long Bien bridge, the street lead up to the bridge is very active at night with many food vendors.
• Traffic jams are common during rush hour, typically from 8:30 to 9:00 in the morning and 5:30 to 6:00 in the evening.
• You should wear mask while commuting in a motorbike. 
• For convenient food delivery, try GrabFood or Shopee Food. Grab and Be also offer reliable taxi services.
• Note: Starting from March 18th, 2024, Moca, Grab's payment service provider partner, will charge a 4% "Foreign Payment Fee" (VAT included) for transactions made with cards issued outside of Vietnam on the Grab App. Consider using Be or Gojek for commuting instead.

• You should also rise early. Around 5 or 6 a.m. is when Vietnamese people engage in their sports activities and enjoy breakfast. This is an excellent opportunity to observe local eating spots and witness activities such as volleyball, badminton, or elderly women practicing Tai Chi. If you're inclined, you can even join in. It's quite interesting to watch the hectic morning life in Vietnam.
• Don't let anyone put anything into your hands or onto your body. This is invariably a scam which is going to prey on your politeness. So don't be polite in this situation.

8. When are the best times to visit Hanoi?

Hanoi is a year-round destination, each season adding its own unique beauty thanks to its four distinct seasons. Due to its tropical climate, the city exhibits typical characteristics such as a high average temperature, ample precipitation, and high humidity.

Spring (February to mid-April): With temperatures ranging from around 18-25°C, gradually increasing towards the end of spring, February marks the period of Tet, the lunar new year, where you can immerse yourself in the traditional colors of the Asian new year in a delightful atmosphere.

Summer (mid-April to August): The average temperature hovers around 28 to 34°C, with peaks reaching 38°C. The days are characterized by sunshine, heat, and occasional rainfall, especially in late July and August. This season offers the opportunity to admire the magnificent lotus flowers, which are the national flower of Vietnam.

Autumn (September to mid-November): Considered the most beautiful season in Hanoi, the average temperature ranges from around 18-25°C. The weather is pleasant, cool, and sunny, with the addition of autumn flowers that enhance the beauty of this ancient capital.

Winter (mid-November to January): Temperatures can drop to approximately 10 to 18°C, providing a colder climate.

Or if you wish to visit Hanoi or any other travel destination in Vietnam, you can contact us to plan ahead for your trip.

9. Where should I stay in Hanoi / Best place to stay in Hanoi

Here are some of our suggestions for 3-star hotels in the center of Hanoi:

Hotel Esplendor Hanoi

• Address: 80 Hang Ga Street, Hoan Kiem District, Old Quarter Area, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi
• Website: https://www.hanoiesplendorhotel.com/

Hotel De Rond Hanoi 

• Address: 15a Tong Dan Street, Trang Tien Ward, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi
• Website: https://hotelderond.com/ 

Open since April 2023, Hôtel de Rond features a stunning blend of Indochinese style and a beautifully Vietnamese-inspired interior. It represents a perfect choice for those looking for new facilities, impeccable rooms and an ideal location.

Golden Sun Hotel 

• Address: 33 Hang Quat Street, Hoan Kiem District, Old Quarter, Hanoi
• Website: https://www.goldensunhotel.com/

Golden Sun Hotel offers affordable accommodation in the heart of Hanoi, promising a comfortable experience for discerning travelers. Located just steps from Hoan Kiem Lake, Ngoc Son Temple and the Old Town, this establishment immerses you in the very heart of the history and culture of the Vietnamese capital.

In conclusion

Hanoi, a captivating destination that immerses you in a rich history and vibrant culture. This city offers an enchanting experience year-round, delighting your senses with its cultural heritage and enthralling you with its lively streets. Explore delicious local cuisine and venture into nearby natural wonders. Hanoi extends an irresistible invitation to embark on an unforgettable adventure. 

🚌Other must-see attractions in the north of Vietnam

• Ha Giang: 6 Essential Things to Know Before You Go
• Bac Ha: 7 questions about the land of Northwest ethnic groups
• Cao Bang: Complete guide for a successful trip
• Halong Bay on Land: 7 Essential Questions Before You Go!