Overview of Hanoi Capital

Hanoi – the thousand-year-old capital of Vietnamese civilization – is the political, cultural, and economic center of the country. The city lies peacefully by the Red River, bearing the hallmarks of ancient dynasties and the vibrant pace of modern life. The climate has four distinct seasons, each offering Hanoi its own unique beauty. 

Location of Hanoi Capital on the Map of Vietnam

Hanoi is advantageously located in the center of the Northern Delta region, bordering many major provinces such as Bac Ninh, Hung Yen, Ninh Binh, and Phu Tho. The diverse transportation system, including an airport, railways, national highways, and expressways, facilitates convenient travel. The map of Hanoi is divided into the ancient inner city area and the peaceful suburban districts, creating a harmonious blend of tradition and development. Tourists can easily find famous attractions, resorts, and culinary spots throughout all districts.

Prominent Destinations in Hanoi

Hanoi Old Quarter

Hanoi Old Quarter

Hanoi Old Quarter is the cultural heart of the capital, preserving an ancient beauty through weathered tiled roofs and small streets. Streets such as Hang Bac, Hang Dao, and Hang Ma are still bustling with passersby, reflecting the vibrant life of the local people. Tourists can enjoy coffee, shop for handicrafts, and fully sense the ancient soul of Hanoi.

Temple of Literature - Quoc Tu Giam

Temple of Literature – Imperial Academy 

The Temple of Literature – Imperial Academy, built in the 11th century, is Vietnam's first national university, a place honoring Confucius and talented scholars. The ancient space, featuring the Thien Quang Well and the Doctors' Steles, deeply embodies the nation's tradition of valuing education. This is a sacred destination, attracting students to pray for luck and learn about Vietnamese cultural traditions.

Hoa Lo Prison

Hoa Lo Prison

Hoa Lo Prison is a historical relic marking a period of arduous struggle for the Vietnamese nation. It once detained many revolutionary fighters during the French colonial era, featuring thick stone walls and cramped cells. Today, the relic site has become a vivid museum, helping visitors better understand the resilient spirit and indomitable patriotism.

Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum

Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum

Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum is located in Ba Dinh Square, serving as the resting place of the nation's beloved leader. The structure features a solid, majestic architecture, symbolizing the profound reverence and gratitude of the people. The surrounding area is green and tranquil, combining visits to the Stilt House, the Fish Pond, and the Ho Chi Minh Museum, creating an emotional journey.

Imperial Citadel of Thang Long

The Imperial Citadel of Thang Long

Thang Long Imperial Citadel – a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage site – is a testament to over 1,000 years of history. The relic complex preserves traces of palaces, fortress walls, and precious artifacts from former dynasties. This is an ideal place for visitors to explore the long-standing development of Thang Long Imperial City – the ancient political center of Vietnam.

Hoan Kiem Lake

Hoan Kiem Lake

Hoan Kiem Lake, located in the heart of Hanoi, is a sacred symbol associated with the legend of King Le Loi returning the sword. The calm surface of the lake, the quiet Turtle Tower (Tháp Rùa), and the bright red The Huc Bridge create a picturesque scene. Peaceful during the day and brilliantly lit at night, Hoan Kiem Lake is always an indispensable stop for visitors to Hanoi.

Besides the famous destinations mentioned above, Hanoi also hides countless beautiful corners and relics rich in cultural and historical value. Spend time exploring the places listed below, and you will more clearly feel the simultaneously ancient and modern beauty of the thousand-year-old capital of civilization:

  • Tran Quoc Pagoda – Thanh Nien Street, Tay Ho Ward, Hanoi
  • One Pillar Pagoda (Chùa Một Cột) – Chua Mot Cot Street, Ba Dinh Ward, Hanoi
  • Vietnam Museum of Ethnology – No. 1 Nguyen Van Huyen Street, Nghia Do Ward, Hanoi
  • Hanoi Museum – Pham Hung Street, Dai Mo Ward, Hanoi
  • B-52 Victory Museum – No. 157 Doi Can Street, Ngoc Ha Ward, Hanoi

Best time to travel

Hanoi features the distinct climate of the Northern region, with four clear seasons throughout the year.

Spring (February to April) is when hoa ban (mountain ebony), hoa sua (milk flower), and hoa gao (rice flower) bloom across the streets, creating a gentle and clear setting.

Summer (May to August), though hot and humid, is the season for lotus flowers and abundant Northern fruits. Regardless of the time of visit, tourists can still perceive the unique beauty and deep identity of the capital.

Autumn (September to October) brings a romantic appearance with clear blue skies, gentle sunshine, and the faint fragrance of milk flowers everywhere. This is the perfect time for visitors to stroll around Hoan Kiem Lake or Phan Dinh Phung Street to admire the golden leaves falling on the sidewalks.

Winter (November to January of the following year), Hanoi has cool weather, suitable for enjoying hot dishes like pho (noodle soup), bun thang (vermicelli soup), or banh troi tau (sweet dumplings in ginger syrup). Many tourists choose this period to enjoy a sense of warmth in the characteristic cold atmosphere of the North.

Transportation to Hanoi

By air

Domestic Airport Bai

Popular Routes:

  • Ho Chi Minh City (SGN) → Hanoi (HAN) – Flight time: approximately 2 hours
  • Da Nang (DAD) → Hanoi (HAN) – Flight time: approximately 1 hour 20 minutes

Operating Airlines: Vietnam Airlines, Vietjet Air, Bamboo Airways.

Arrival Airport: Noi Bai International Airport, located about 30 km from the city center.

Transportation from Airport to City Center: Taxi, public bus, ride-sharing services, or airport shuttle service.

Ceiling Price (excluding taxes and fees):

  • HCMC ↔ Hanoi: maximum 3,400,000 VND/one-way (Economy)
  • Da Nang ↔ Hanoi: maximum 2,790,000 VND/one-way (Economy)

By rail

Popular Routes:

  • Ho Chi Minh City → Hanoi: 30–35 hours.
  • Da Nang → Hanoi: 14–16 hours.

Reputable Coach Companies: Hoang Long, Phuong Trang, Mai Linh, Camel Travel, Queen Café, Kumho Viet Thanh, etc.

Reference Ticket Prices:

  • HCMC ↔ Hanoi: starting from ~491,000 VND/seat.
  • Da Nang ↔ Hanoi: 340,000 – 990,000 VND/passenger (depending on company and type of vehicle).

Bus Stations in Hanoi: Giap Bat, My Dinh, Nuoc Ngam – all have shuttle services to the city center.

By car guest

Getting Around the City

Popular Means of Transportation:

  • Taxi: Xanh SM, G7, Mai Linh, VinaSun.
  • Ride-sharing Apps: Grab, Be, Xanh SM App (electric vehicles).
  • Public Bus: Covers all districts, affordable fare, easy to use.
  • Self-drive Motorbike / Car Rental: Convenient for tourists who want to explore areas around the inner city in depth.

Some Reputable Vehicle Rental Addresses:

  • Hanoi Motorbike Rental – 20 Ta Hien, Hoan Kiem | ☎ 0976 666 418
  • Style Motorbike – 40 Ngo Huy Dien, Dong Da | ☎ 0904 88 77 99
  • Motogo Hanoi – 20A Nguyen Khanh Toan, Nghia Do | ☎ 0966 456 969
  • Travelcar (Self-drive Car) – 85 Nguyen Luong Bang, Dong Da | ☎ 0933 868 833

Accommodation Information in Hanoi

Luxury (4–5 stars)

Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi located at 15 Ngo Quyen, Hoan Kiem ward, is a stylish hotel Classic French way. Luxurious space with sophisticated interior, outdoor swimming pool and high-end spa area. The hotel has welcomed many international leaders and artists, becoming a symbol of elegance in the heart of Hanoi. Professional service, classy cuisine and central location make this place top-rated. According to Booking.com, room prices at Sofitel Metropole usually range from around USD ~250 - 500/night depending on room type & season (depending on day).

Sofitel Legend Metropole Hotel

Lotte Hotel Hanoi is located in the Lotte Center building, 54 Lieu Giai Street, Ngoc Ha Ward, featuring a modern and luxurious style. From the rooms, guests can enjoy a panoramic view of the city sparkling with lights at night. The high-end buffet restaurant, infinity pool, and bar on the 65th floor are notable highlights. This is a perfect choice for tourists seeking a stay in a space with full amenities and impressive views. According to Booking.com, Lotte Hotel Hanoi has Deluxe rooms, Suites, etc., with prices ranging from approximately USD 200– 400 per night, depending on the room category and peak season.

If you are looking for more options for a luxury stay in the heart of Hanoi, here are some other high-end hotels worth considering:

  • InterContinental Hanoi Westlake – No. 5 Tu Hoa, Tay Ho, Hanoi – Prices around USD 200 – 400 / night
  • JW Marriott Hotel Hanoi – No. 8 Do Duc Duc, Dai Mo, Hanoi – Prices around USD 250 – 450 / night
  • Capella Hanoi – 11 Le Phung Hieu, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi – Prices around USD 350 – 600 / night

Resort (Resort, Villa)

Melia Ba Vi Mountain Retreat is located within the Ba Vi National Park, surrounded by old-growth forest. The climate is cool all year round, and the morning mist makes the scenery poetic. The wooden villas are delicately designed, harmonizing with nature. While staying here, guests can enjoy trekking, morning meditation, or savoring local mountain specialties. According to Agoda & other booking sites, prices can start from a few million VND per night (potentially 2-4 million VND or more). Additionally, the price does not include the entrance fee to the National Park (approx. 60,000 VND/person) – which guests will pay separately at the gate..

Melia Ba Vi Mountain Retreat

To diversify options for nature-loving tourists seeking a tranquil retreat space within the Hanoi area, the following prominent resorts can be considered:

  • Annam Garden Resort – Muong Chau Village, Yen Bai Commune – Prices from 2,000,000 – 3,500,000 VND/night
  • Family Resort Ba Vi – Moi Hamlet, Yen Bai Commune – Prices from 1,500,000 – 3,000,000 VND/night
  • Lai Farm Ba Vi – Rua Village, Yen Bai Commune – Prices from 1,800,000$ – 3,200,000 VND/night

Experiences (2–3 Stars, Homestay, Boutique Hotel)

Hanoi Ancient Paradise Hotel is a 3-star hotel located at 95 Hang Chieu Street, Hoan Kiem Ward, right in the center of the bustling Old Quarter. The hotel stands out with a modern design style combined with a classic flair, offering a sense of intimacy and elegance to guests. The rooms are fully equipped with amenities such as air conditioning, flat-screen TV, minibar, and free Wi-Fi, suitable for both leisure and business travelers. The average room price is approximately 929,000VND/night for 2 adults, including breakfast and 24-hour reception service.

The Sono Hanoi Hotel is located at 56A Hang Dau Street, Hoan Kiem Ward, Hanoi, just a few minutes' walk from Hoan Kiem Lake and O Quan Chuong Gate. This 3-star hotel is favored for its convenient location, clean space, and friendly, professional staff. The rooms are modernly designed and fully equipped with amenities such as air conditioning, a mini-fridge, and a private bathroom. Room prices vary depending on the booking time, typically ranging from 800,000 – 1,000,000 VND/night, which is highly suitable for tourists looking to experience Hanoi at a reasonable cost.

For travelers who want to enjoy a cozy space and reasonable cost while still having full amenities, the following accommodations are interesting suggestions:

  • Little Charm Hanoi Hostel – 44 Hang Bo, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi – Prices from 600,000$ – 900,000 VND/night
  • Madame Hien Boutique Hotel – 26 Nha Tho, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi – Prices from 800,000 – 1,100,000 VND/night
  • Hanoi La Siesta Hotel & Spa – 94 Ma May, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi – Prices from 1,000,000 – 1,500,000 VND/night

Local cuisine and festival culture

High-class restaurant

La Verticale – 19 Ngo Van So Street, Cua Nam Ward

La Verticale Restaurant 

La Verticale is designed in an old French villa, with elegant spaces and views of the city center. The restaurant serves Vietnamese dishes prepared in a modern culinary style. The flavors are delicately balanced, demonstrating a harmonious combination of local ingredients and Western techniques. This is a favorite place for diners looking for a luxurious culinary experience in the heart of Hanoi. The average price per capita is about 300,000 VND - 770,000 VND.

Jackson's Steakhouse – 23J Hai Ba Trung, Cua Nam Ward

Jackson's Steakhouse is famous for its imported steaks prepared with European standards. Luxurious space, professional service, and premium wine create the perfect dinner. Each slice of meat is soft and fragrant on the hot stone table, making it unforgettable for diners. The restaurant is considered by many international tourists to be one of the top culinary destinations in Hanoi. The average price per capita is about 300,000 - 1,100,000 VND.

If you want to explore other luxury culinary destinations in Hanoi, here are some outstanding suggestions worth experiencing:

  • El Gaucho Argentinian Steakhouse – 11 Trang Tien, Hoan Kiem ward – Average price 500,000 – 1,200,000 VND/person
  • The Rhythms Restaurant – 7th Floor, 33–35 Hang Dau, Hoan Kiem Ward – Average price 400,000 – 900,000 VND/person
  • Home Hanoi Restaurant – 34 Chau Long, Ngoc Ha Ward – Average price 300,000 – 800,000 VND/person
  • T.U.N.G Dining – 2C Quang Trung, Cua Nam Ward – Average price 1,000,000 – 2,500,000 VND/person

Local cuisine

Cha Ca Thang Long Restaurant – 2D & 6B Duong Thanh Street, Hoan Kiem Ward: Cha Ca La Vong (La Vong grilled fish) is the "soul of Hanoi." Ca lang (catfish) is marinated, grilled until golden, and then stir-fried with dill and scallions. It is served with vermicelli, roasted peanuts, herbs, and a bowl of perfectly whipped shrimp paste (mam tom). The space is ancient, and the service is attentive.

Bun Cha Hang Manh – 24 Le Van Huu Street, Hai Ba Trung Ward: This eatery is frequently mentioned when talking about Hanoi's Bun Cha (grilled pork with vermicelli) – featuring slices of marinated and grilled pork belly, grilled pork patties, fresh vermicelli, raw vegetables, and a dipping sauce mixed perfectly with the Hanoi flavor (a harmonious blend of salty, sweet, and sour).

Bun Thang Cau Go – 48 Cau Go Street, Hoan Kiem Ward: Bun Thang (Hanoi vermicelli soup) is a quintessential Hanoi dish, intricate in its preparation. The bowl contains shredded chicken, julienned fried egg, Vietnamese pork sausage (gio lua), dried shrimp, wood ear mushrooms, other mushrooms, and a clear, light, and subtly fragrant broth. The bowl of vermicelli looks like a “ladder” (thang) with many beautifully arranged ingredients.

Experiential Cuisine

Pao Quan – Alley 62 Tran Thai Tong, Cau Giay Ward: Features the bold flavors of the Northwestern mountains right in the heart of Hanoi. The restaurant serves specialties such as Man pig platter, chicken grilled with forest pepper, ca lang (catfish) braised with fermented rice, and paddy crab hot pot. The bamboo and rattan space is cozy, perfect for groups of friends or families.

Quan Kien 100 Tue Tinh – 100 Tue Tinh, Bach Mai Ward: A place that brings together unique ethnic dishes such as thang co (horse meat hot pot), local pig (lon ban), grilled stream fish, and stir-fried horse meat with garlic. Each dish carries the flavor of the Northern highlands, offering a novel culinary experience to diners.

Kinh Ky Quan – 104 Hoa Ma, Hai Ba Trung Ward: The space is a blend of luxury and tradition, with a diverse menu featuring Northern, Central, and Southern dishes. Highlights include ca kho lang Vu Dai (braised fish from Vu Dai village), sour soup with ca bong lau (catfish), and beef grilled in bamboo tubes. Suitable for enjoying a cozy meal with family.

In addition to the above-mentioned restaurants, people can refer to some other famous eateries such as:

  • Bun Dau Mam Tom Cay Da (Vermicelli with Tofu and Shrimp Paste) – 235B Thuy Khue, Tay Ho Ward
  • Banh Cuon Ba Hoanh (Steamed Rice Rolls) – 66 Bat Dan, Hoan Kiem Ward
  • Bun Oc Ba Luong (Snail Vermicelli Soup) – Alley 191 Khuong Thuong, Kim Lien Ward
  • Banh Mi Sot Vang Hieu Luc (Bread with Braised Beef Sauce) – 326 Ba Trieu, Hai Ba Trung Ward
  • Xoi Khuc Co Lan (Sticky Rice Balls with Mung Bean and Pork) – 35 Cau Go, Hoan Kiem Ward
  • Cha Ruoi Hang Beo (Ragworm Omelet) – 244 Lo Duc, Bach Mai Ward

Culture & Festival Experience

Giong Festival - Soc Son

Giong Temple - Soc Son

The Giong Festival is held in the first lunar month to honor Saint Giong – a national hero. Thousands of locals and tourists flock to Soc Son to participate in the palanquin procession and reenactment of the battle against the An invaders. The sounds of festival drums, flags, flowers, and traditional costumes make the atmosphere more solemn and sacred. This is one of the most typical festivals of Vietnamese culture.

Huong Pagoda Festival – My Duc

The Huong Pagoda Festival takes place from the first to the third lunar month, serving as a sacred pilgrimage site for Vietnamese people. Visitors travel by boat on the Yen stream, admiring the majestic mountains and the peaceful atmosphere. Upon reaching Huong Tich Cave, the sound of the temple bell and the scent of incense create a feeling of peace and relaxation. This is an occasion for people to seek tranquility of mind amidst the hurried pace of life.

In addition, visitors can experience many other unique cultural festivals right in Hanoi:

  • Hat Mon Temple Festival – Hat Mon Commune (6th day of the third lunar month): Commemorating the Trung Sisters, reenacting the heroic atmosphere of the uprising against foreign invaders.
  • Quan Thanh Temple Festival – Ba Dinh Ward (Full Moon of the first lunar month): Praying for peace and luck at the beginning of the year at one of the ancient Four Defense Temples of Thang Long.
  • Kim Lien Temple Festival – Kim Lien Ward (16th day of the third lunar month): Commemorating the deity Cao Son, immersing oneself in the sacred atmosphere of the palanquin procession ritual.
  • Dong Da Festival – Dong Da Ward (5th day of the first lunar month): Commemorating the Ngoc Hoi – Dong Da victory and the commoner hero Quang Trung.
  • Co Loa Festival – Dong Anh Commune (6th day of the first lunar month): Exploring the ancient citadel relic, commemorating King An Duong Vuong and the legend of My Chau – Trong Thuy.
  • Tay Ho Palace Festival – Tay Ho Ward (Full Moon of the first lunar month): A famous pilgrimage site to pray for prosperity and peace at the beginning of the year.

Entertainment Areas and Experiences

West Lake Water Park 

Lake Water Park Tay 

West Lake Water Park, located on Lac Long Quan Street (Tay Ho Ward), is an ideal destination on hot summer days with its system of slides, wave pools, and modern water play areas. Visitors can play, cool off, and enjoy the fresh air by the lake. Current entrance tickets range from approximately 170,000 – 190,000VND/adult during the day, and decrease to 100,000 – 130,000VND after 5 PM.

Ta Hien Street – dubbed the "international crossroads" in the heart of the Old Quarter – is the most vibrant spot in Hanoi at night. Along both sides of the street are rows of beer stalls, snacks, and fragrant grilled dishes. Visitors can sit on small plastic stools, sip a cold glass of draft beer (bia hoi) for only 5,000 – 10,000 VND, and chat in the lively atmosphere.

Typical snacks such as fried sour fermented pork roll (nem chua ran), grilled chicken feet, French fries, or dried squid cost about 20,000 –60,000VND/portion, depending on the stall. The simple, friendly space, the sounds of music, laughter, and warm yellow lights create a youthful, liberal atmosphere. This is an ideal place to end a day exploring Hanoi, enjoying the dynamic and friendly rhythm of life in the capital.

Hanoi also has many other attractive entertainment and relaxation spots suitable for both tourists and locals who want to relax, explore, and enjoy the rhythm of the capital:

  • Aeon Mall Ha Dong – Duong Noi Ward: A modern shopping center combined with entertainment areas, a cinema, and various restaurants.
  • Bao Son Paradise (Thiên đường Bảo Sơn) – Le Trong Tan Street, An Khanh Commune: An entertainment complex – water park – miniature safari, ideal for families with small children.
  • Times City – 458 Minh Khai, Vinh Tuy Ward: A modern urban area with the Vinpearl Aquarium and a large children's play area.
  • Thu Le Park (Công viên Thủ Lệ) – Buoi Street, Ngoc Ha Ward: Both a green park and a zoo with many fascinating animals for children to discover.
  • Hanoi Book Street (Phố sách Hà Nội) – 19 Thang 12, Cua Nam Ward: A space for reading, coffee, and cultural exchange in the heart of the Old Quarter, suitable for those who love quietness and knowledge.

Suggested tour

Experience tour

Hanoi 1 day tour

  • Itinerary: Hoan Kiem Lake - Tran Quoc Pagoda - Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum Chi Minh - Uncle Ho's Stilt House - Temple of Literature - Quoc Tu Giam - Hoa Lo Prison - Hanoi Old Quarter

  • Transportation: 16–29 seat tourist car

  • Reference tour price: 700,000 VND/person (lunch included)

  • Organizer: SinhTour

Hanoi City Tour – Bat Trang Pottery Village 1 day

  • Itinerary: Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum – Temple of Literature – National Tu Giam – Hoan Kiem Lake – Bat Trang Pottery Village (experience molding pottery, visiting the workshop)
  • Transportation: Car
  • Reference tour price: 799,000 VND/person
  • Organizer: DailyTourViet

Adventure tour - discovery

1 day Ba Vi trekking tour

  • Itinerary: Hanoi – Ba Vi National Park – Trekking pine forest – Visiting Thuong Temple – King's Peak – Ancient French Church
  • Transportation: Car + trekking
  • Reference tour price: 650,000 - 750,000 VND/person
  • Organizer: Kavo Travel

Tour to explore Tram Mountain - Tram Pagoda 1 day

  • Itinerary: Hanoi - Tram Pagoda - Tram Cave - Mountain climbing - Outdoor picnic - Check-in panoramic view of the suburban plain
  • Transportation: Car
  • Reference tour price: 680,000 VND/person
  • Organizer: Hanoi Local Tour

Family tour

Bao Paradise Park fun tour Painting 1 day

  • Itinerary: Hanoi - Bao Son Paradise Park - Safari area - Aquarium - Fairy garden - Thrilling amusement park
  • Transportation: Car
  • Reference tour price: 750,000 VND/person
  • Organizer: BestPrice Travel

Eco-tourism 

Eco-tour of Bat Trang - Van Phuc 1 day

  • Itinerary: Bat Trang Pottery Village – Visit, make pottery – Van Phuc Silk Village – Learn about traditional weaving – Shop for handmade products
  • Method of transportation: Car
  • Reference tour price: 890,000 VND/person
  • Organizer: Vietravel Hanoi

Shopping and souvenirs

Dong Xuan Market - Hoan Kiem

Dong Xuan Market 

Dong Xuan Market is the oldest and largest market in Hanoi Noi. Inside there are hundreds of stalls selling fabrics, ao dai, handicrafts, dried specialties and souvenirs. Visitors can find everything from traditional to modern goods. The scent of new fabrics, laughter and bustling atmosphere create the unique vitality of the market.

Hang Gai Street 

Hang Gai Street is famous for its silk shops, art paintings and sophisticated souvenirs. The products are meticulously handcrafted, suitable as gifts for international friends. Along the street, small shops are filled with scarves, bags, and traditional dresses. Each item bears the mark of elegant Trang An culture.

Support information and contact agencies

Hanoi City Police: 069.219.4183 / Emergency: 113

General Department of Market Surveillance - Consumer Rights Protection: 1900.888.655

National Administration of Tourism of Vietnam Support Hotline: 0941 33 66 77

Emergency – Viet Duc Hospital: 19001902 / Emergency: 115

Noi Bai Airport – Passenger Support Center: (+84) 024.3886.5047

These agencies operate regularly and are ready to assist tourists in all situations. If you encounter issues such as being lost, losing belongings, or needing medical advice, please call the nearest hotline number. Hanoi always maintains a 24/7 tourism support network to ensure the safety of visitors. The dedication and friendliness of the local people are what make many people feel nostalgic upon leaving the capital.

Wishing you a wonderful trip, full of exciting experiences and the discovery of the capital's beauty!