Meta description: Planning to travel to Hanoi? Explore ancient temples, vibrant street life, delicious cuisine, and hidden gems in Vietnam’s thousand-year-old capital.
Travel to Hanoi and immerse yourself in the heart of Vietnam, where centuries-old traditions, charming architecture, and vibrant street life blend into an unforgettable travel experience. Whether you’re strolling through the lantern-lit alleys of the Old Quarter, sipping a creamy egg coffee by Hoan Kiem Lake, or listening to the echo of drums at the Temple of Literature, Hanoi invites you to feel—not just see—its beauty.
This captivating capital is home to a rich mix of cultures and eras. French colonial buildings stand gracefully beside ancient Buddhist pagodas. The peaceful waters of West Lake reflect the golden light of sunset, while the historic Long Bien Bridge, built over a century ago, hums with the stories of Hanoi’s past.
But what truly makes travel to Hanoi unforgettable is its rhythm of daily life. In the early morning mist, locals gather at the lake for tai chi, while the streets awaken with the aromas of pho, banh cuon, and fresh herbs. The pace is gentle yet full of life – children playing in quiet courtyards, artists sketching near the Opera House, and musicians performing in weekend night markets.
Hanoians are warm, thoughtful, and deeply connected to their heritage. They speak softly, move gracefully, and take pride in preserving the city’s unique charm. Whether you’re joining a traditional cooking class, exploring a craft village like Bat Trang, or simply chatting with a cyclo driver, you’ll find authentic connections that stay with you long after you leave.
From historic sites like the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and Imperial Citadel of Thang Long, to modern art spaces, rooftop cafés, and hidden alleyways bursting with local stories – those who travel to Hanoi will discover not just things to do, but moments to remember.
Plan your journey to Hanoi today and uncover a city where every corner tells a story, every flavor has meaning, and every step feels like coming home.
Travel to Hanoi – transportation
Getting to Hanoi
From Noi Bai International Airport, foreign travelers can reach central Hanoi in about 40 to 60 minutes by various means. The most convenient options are ride-hailing apps like Grab or Xanh SM, which offer fixed fares and English support. Airport taxis such as Mai Linh or G7 are also reliable, though slightly more expensive. Budget travelers may opt for Bus 86 or airline-operated shuttle buses, which run regularly to the city center. For a more comfortable and hassle-free journey, hotel transfers or private cars are also available.
Getting around Hanoi
Getting around Hanoi is easy and diverse for foreign travelers. Ride-hailing apps like Grab or Xanh SM offer convenient car or motorbike transport with clear pricing. Taxis from trusted companies such as Mai Linh or G7 are also reliable. In the Old Quarter, electric buggies and traditional cyclos (three-wheeled bicycle taxis) provide a slow, scenic way to explore the historic streets. For those who enjoy local experiences, renting a bicycle or motorbike is an option, though traffic can be hectic. Public buses are affordable but may be challenging without local language skills. Walking remains one of the best ways to enjoy Hanoi’s charm, especially around Hoan Kiem Lake and the surrounding old streets.
Main Destinations
- The Old Quarter – The unique classical feature of Hanoi’s urban identity
- Hoan Kiem Lake – Where myth and history intertwine
- Quoc Tu Giam – The first national university of Vietnam
- Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum – A symbol of national respect and remembrance
- One Pillar Pagoda – The most unique architecture in Vietnam
- Hanoi Opera House – A beautiful architectural gem with colonial elegance
- Hoa Lo Prison – A place that tells stories of resilience and revolution
- Long Bien Bridge – A living historical relic spanning over a century
Suggested Cuisine
- Pho: The iconic Vietnamese dish. Hanoi’s version is light, aromatic, and full of depth. Best enjoyed hot with fresh herbs and lime.
- Bun Cha: A local favorite. Grilled pork served in a sweet-savory dipping sauce, with cold noodles, fresh herbs, and crispy spring rolls. Famously enjoyed by President Obama.
- Banh Mi: Crispy outside, soft inside. Filled with meats, pâté, pickled veggies, and herbs. A perfect on-the-go snack.
- Cha Ca La Vong: A true Hanoi specialty. Marinated fish grilled at the table with herbs and served with rice noodles and shrimp paste.
- Com: A seasonal delicacy. Soft, fragrant green rice flakes wrapped in lotus leaves – a symbol of Hanoi’s autumn.
- Bun Thang: A refined dish with shredded chicken, pork, egg strips, and mushrooms in clear broth. Often enjoyed during Tet.
- Egg Coffee: Hanoi’s most unique drink. Rich egg yolk whipped with sweetened milk over strong Vietnamese coffee – creamy, warm, and unforgettable.
- Banh Cuon: Thin rice sheets rolled with minced pork and mushrooms, served with fried shallots and dipping sauce. Light yet full of flavor.
Where to Eat
- Pho Thin (13 Lo Duc Street): Famous for its unique stir-fried beef pho with smoky, rich flavor – a bold take on the Hanoi classic.
- Hoang’s Restaurant: In the Old Quarter, popular with locals and tourists for authentic Vietnamese cuisine in a friendly setting.
- Aira Sky Bar & Restaurant: Elegant rooftop dining near the Old Quarter with stunning city views and refined Vietnamese–international dishes.
- Quan Que Restaurant: Rustic atmosphere with countryside-style cooking in the heart of the city – a hidden gem for traditional flavors.
Seasonal Highlights
December: Cold and festive. Christmas and New Year decorations light up the city, especially around St. Joseph’s Cathedral.
January: Cold and dry. Tet atmosphere fills the city. Flower markets and Old Quarter streets become festive. Great time for pho and hot pot.
February: Early spring with light drizzles and blossoming trees. Ideal for visiting temples like Quan Thanh or Phu Tay Ho.
March: Flower season with ban and sua blossoms. Perfect for street photography and walking tours.
April: Lily season. Mild weather for exploring colonial architecture and lakeside cafés.
September: Cool autumn begins. Streets are full of green rice flakes and Mid-Autumn Festival lights.
October: Hanoi’s best month. Golden sunlight, cool air, and beautiful landscapes around Hoan Kiem and French Quarter.
