Updated 2024: Welcome to our comprehensive Hanoi travel guide, freshly updated to bring you the latest insights and tips for exploring Vietnam’s captivating capital. Whether you’re planning your first visit or returning for another adventure, we’ve got you covered with the most current information.
Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam, is a city that’s worth more than just a fleeting visit. This Hanoi travel guide will help you discover why. The city’s bustling traffic, beautiful quarters, and rich history are immediately captivating. The charm of Hanoi lies in its blend of the old and the new, the peaceful and the chaotic.
How long should I stay?
While you can cover the main attractions in two nights, adding another night will only enrich your experience. Hanoi also serves as the perfect base for trips to Sapa, Ha Long Bay, Ha Giang, or Ninh Binh.
For general tips on your entire trip to Vietnam, you might want to check our three week Vietnam itinerary.
How expensive is Hanoi?ย
One of the factors that make Hanoi a must-visit is its affordability. Here are some examples:
- Budget accommodation starts at under $10 a night, $15-$25, offering very comfortable stays.
- A cup of amazing Vietnamese coffee costs less than a dollar.
- Local food ranges from $2 to $5, with Western dishes slightly more expensive.
- Taxis, especially when using GRAB, are incredibly cheap. A 5-minute ride costs about a dollar.
Where to stay in Hanoi
Budget option: Old Quarter View Hanoi Hostel
Located in the heart of the Old Quarter, this hostel offers comfort and value, with rates under $10 a night, breakfast included.
Comfort option: Hanoi La Selva
This hotel offers great facilities and lovely staff at a reasonable price. It’s located in the Old Quarter, next to Hoan Kiem Lake.
What to See in Hanoi
Hoan Kiem Lake and Ngog Son
Hoan Kiem Lake is one of Hanoi’s icons. Take a walk around the lake and visit Ngoc Son Temple, located on a small island in the middle of the lake.
Foodie TIP: visit the Note Coffeeย just around the corner. It has a great variety of ice creams and delicious coffee.
Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum
A very interesting visit from a cultural and anthropological point of view where you will learn a lot about Vietnam’s history. The ticket includes a visit to Ho Chi Minhโs old residence, gardens, and cars.
TIP: Go early in the morning. Otherwise, you risk queueing for hours!
Hoa Lo Prison
Known as the “Hanoi Hilton,” this prison was used by the French colonists for Vietnamese political prisoners and later by North Vietnam for U.S. prisoners of war.
Old Quarter
This is the heart of Hanoi, home to markets, restaurants, old houses, museums, and souvenir shops. During the weekend, the main streets are closed at night for a night market.
TIP: Visit Ta Hien Street, also known as Beer Street. One beer just 0.5$!
Train street
One of the most popular attractions of Hanoi. Two trains run daily along the street, which is home to residents who often have their meals right on the railway!
Other Places Worth Visiting in Hanoi
- Wander around the French Quarter and enjoy the architecture.
- Visit Don Xuan Market, where you can find pretty much anything.
- Explore the Museum of Anthropology to learn about Vietnam’s ethnic minorities.
- Watch a performance at the Water Puppet Theater.
- Visit the Opera House.
Trying Something Different in Hanoi
One of our best experiences in Hanoi was a food tour with Hanoi Free Walking Tours. Our guide, a university student from Hanoi, introduced us to Vietnamese cuisine at five different restaurants. The tour is free, but you pay for your food (less than $15), including your guide’s meal and a tip.
So, what are you waiting for? Start planning your trip with this Hanoi travel guide and discover the charm of Vietnam’s capital.
3 Week Vietnam Itinerary
Make sure you check our complete guide with all the tips on how to organize your time in this amazing country! Where to stay, how to travel around, and what not to miss!