Visit Hanoi to try typical Vietnamese food, see unique art performances and savor some of the most captivating sights in Southeast Asia. Thanks to its rich cultural heritage and tumultuous history there are many interesting attractions to explore in the bustling city, which has 2.6 million people in its urban center. Hanoi first became a capital just over 1,000 years ago, when it was still called Thang Long (Rising Dragon). It became Ha Noi (Between Two Rivers) in 1831. The city has since been occupied by the French and the Japanese and bombed by the Americans, events which have clearly left their marks. Through all this, Hanoi has stayed traditional and proud. The language and cultural differences can be both challenging and interesting. For example, the Vietnamese consider pointing your finger to be rude. You should use your whole hand instead. Bear this in mind while browsing the Dong Xuan Market. This market is in the Old Quarter, a good place to find souvenirs, traditional merchants and typical Vietnamese and French cuisine. Try pho (rice noodle soup) and sample Vietnam’s favorite brew, Bia Hoi beer, to get a taste of the Orient. At night, visit the nearby Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre with mesmerizing reenactments of dragon-filled legends.Learn more about Hanoi’s legends in the temples that surround lakes such as Hoan Kiem (Lake of the Restored Sword) and Ho Tay (West Lake).The Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum contains the embalmed body of the revered revolutionary leader. Learn about his constant struggle for his country’s freedom at the Ho Chi Minh Museum.Book a trip on a wooden vessel to Ha Long Bay to cruise the turquoise waters around thousands of limestone islets.To get around in Hanoi you can rent a bike or pay to ride in a traditional “cyclo”. Public buses are cheap and service the whole city. If you hail a taxi, negotiate a fixed price in dong (the Vietnamese currency), because the meters are often manipulated.
Hanoi
Where to stay in Hanoi
Old Quarter
Old Quarter is beloved for its panoramic lake views. Take some time to explore sights in the area like Hoan Kiem Lake and Hang Gai Street.
Hoan Kiem
Panoramic lake views interesting history and top sights from Hoan Kiem Lake to St. Joseph's Cathedral of Hanoi – discover Hoan Kiem, a destination also famous for its shopping.
French Quarter
The ample dining options and fantastic lake views are top of the list for many visitors to French Quarter. A stop by Hoan Kiem Lake or Hanoi Municipal Party Committee might round out your trip.
Ba Dinh
The ample dining options and fantastic lake views are top of the list for many visitors to Ba Dinh. A stop by Ho Chi Minh Museum or Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum might round out your trip.
Tay Ho
The ample dining options and fantastic lake views are top of the list for many visitors to Tay Ho. A stop by West Lake or Ho Tay Water Park might round out your trip.
Hang Bac
While visiting Hang Bac, you might make a stop by sights like Hoan Kiem Lake and The Old Quarter Gallery.
Reviewed on 28 Mar 2024
Reviewed on 27 Mar 2024
Reviewed on 26 Mar 2024
Reviewed on 17 Mar 2024
Reviewed on 24 Mar 2024
Reviewed on 10 Mar 2024
Popular places to visit
Hoan Kiem Lake
Wander around the banks of this peaceful lake and discover an historic temple, observe locals going about their daily life or enjoy a picnic lunch under the shade.
Hanoi Opera House
This historic building is the centrepiece of Hanoi’s French Quarter and host to shows by many of Vietnam’s premier singers, dancers and musicians.
O Quan Chuong
The attractive shape of the only city gate remaining in Hanoi harks back to a time when the city was under siege.
West Lake
Commune with nature and explore the great outdoors at West Lake during your travels in Hanoi. Amble around this culturally rich area's lakeside or seek out the local tours.
Dong Xuan Market
Browse hundreds of stalls in Hanoi’s biggest marketplace in the heart of the Old Quarter.
St. Joseph's Cathedral of Hanoi
At the heart of Hanoi stands a weathered neo-Gothic Roman Catholic church, a contrary sight in this predominantly Buddhist city.
Things to do
From Hanoi: Tam Coc, Hoa Lu & Mua Caves Full-Day Trip
Hanoi Food Tour with Train Street Visit
The Most Luxury Day Tour in Halong Bay with Ambassador Cruise
Reviews of Hanoi
3/5 - Okay
Hanoi is an old city, don't expect clean roads or posh buildings it's not that type of city. Expect to sit on plastic chairs and eat in places that at home you wouldn't go near but you need to because the food is amazing. Train street was frustrating
5/5 - Excellent
Take great care crossing roads. Green man means nothing and scooters go in all directions.
4/5 - Good
Once you get used to navigating the lack of pavement/ traffic situation this is a lovely city worth exploring.
3/5 - Okay
Good for food, spas and souvenirs.
4/5 - Good
Very busy with scooters made walking anywhere stressful.
5/5 - Excellent
Totally mad but once you get the hang of crossing the road it is all amazing fun and such a great place to explore with great food and friendly people
Other places like Hanoi
- Hoan Kiem Lake
- Hanoi Opera House
- O Quan Chuong
- Dong Xuan Market
- St. Joseph's Cathedral of Hanoi
- Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum
- Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre
- My Dinh National Stadium
- Vietnam National Convention Center
- Hoa Lo Prison Museum
- Bao Son Paradise Park
- Keangnam Landmark Tower 72
- Hang Gai Street
- Imperial Citadel of Thang Long
- Ngoc Son Temple
- Trang Tien Plaza
- Ho Tay Water Park
- Train Street
- Vietnam Museum of Ethnology