Hanoi
Highlights
Intro
Hanoi owns the ancient beauty of the Old Quarter, the tranquility of Hoan Kiem Lake, and the excitement of the culinary street, making it an attractive destination for tourists.
Coming to Hanoi, you can discover old pagodas, enjoy special dishes, and immerse yourself in the daily life of the capital’s people.
Coming to Hanoi, you can discover old pagodas, enjoy special dishes, and immerse yourself in the daily life of the capital’s people.
Explore Hanoi - Source: Pixabay
Weather in Hanoi
Located on the banks of the Red River, flowing from China to the Gulf of Tonkin, Hanoi is hot and humid in summer, while it is cool to mild in winter.
Hanoi temperatures vary from season to season. From April to September (hot season), the peak temperature can reach up to 45°C. Since December to late February, it has gradually been cold. In the city center, the temperature drops to 10°C, and the lower places are the mountainous areas (2 – 3°C).
Here is a summarizing table of weather in Hanoi for each month:
Hanoi temperatures vary from season to season. From April to September (hot season), the peak temperature can reach up to 45°C. Since December to late February, it has gradually been cold. In the city center, the temperature drops to 10°C, and the lower places are the mountainous areas (2 – 3°C).
Here is a summarizing table of weather in Hanoi for each month:
Month | Average Temperature (°C) | Humidity (%) | Rainfall (mm) |
December | 18,1 | 77 | 20,8 |
January | 17,2 | 77 | 18,6 |
February | 18,3 | 77 | 26,7 |
March | 21,9 | 82 | 37,6 |
April | 26,6 | 83 | 64,3 |
May | 29,5 | 82 | 130,2 |
June | 30,1 | 80 | 221,6 |
July | 29,9 | 81 | 318,3 |
August | 29,1 | 82 | 271,4 |
September | 28,3 | 81 | 165,1 |
October | 25,9 | 79 | 61,7 |
November | 22,1 | 77 | 30,2 |
Get Around Hanoi
Grab
This is a motor taxi option that offers a unique experience and even gets you to destinations quickly. With the price shown on the Grab app, you avoid the extra fee because you’re a traveling foreigner.
Taxis
If you have trouble booking a Grab, another choice is taxis. Instead of the traditional models, Xanh SM is a highly reputed taxi application with a competitive cost. This is an attractive option for any traveler who wants to get around the capital in an economical manner.
Walking
It would be a good option if you’re just going to stroll around the Old Quarter. To explore more hidden places in Hanoi or learn about the related stories, you’re best off going with a local guide.
Bicycle
You’re perfectly capable of handling the Hanoi heat and want to see the beautiful sceneries with environment-friendly transport. Renting an electric bike or a normal bike is considerable. It only takes 20.000VND per rental within 45 minutes.
Cyclo
Known as bicycle rickshaws in Hanoi, cyclos with a front cab for tourists and a driver behind can carry up to two passengers. This is ideal for short journeys to the Hanoi center.
This is a motor taxi option that offers a unique experience and even gets you to destinations quickly. With the price shown on the Grab app, you avoid the extra fee because you’re a traveling foreigner.
Taxis
If you have trouble booking a Grab, another choice is taxis. Instead of the traditional models, Xanh SM is a highly reputed taxi application with a competitive cost. This is an attractive option for any traveler who wants to get around the capital in an economical manner.
Walking
It would be a good option if you’re just going to stroll around the Old Quarter. To explore more hidden places in Hanoi or learn about the related stories, you’re best off going with a local guide.
Bicycle
You’re perfectly capable of handling the Hanoi heat and want to see the beautiful sceneries with environment-friendly transport. Renting an electric bike or a normal bike is considerable. It only takes 20.000VND per rental within 45 minutes.
Cyclo
Known as bicycle rickshaws in Hanoi, cyclos with a front cab for tourists and a driver behind can carry up to two passengers. This is ideal for short journeys to the Hanoi center.
Taking a cyclo tour of Hanoi - Source: Pixabay
Buses
The local bus system in Hanoi has convenient routes for traveling to well-known destinations, such as the Hanoi Train Station, The Literature Temple, Hoan Kiem Lake, and Ho Chi Minh’s Mausoleum. You can have peace of mind on the price because it is based on the standard ticket cost.
The local bus system in Hanoi has convenient routes for traveling to well-known destinations, such as the Hanoi Train Station, The Literature Temple, Hoan Kiem Lake, and Ho Chi Minh’s Mausoleum. You can have peace of mind on the price because it is based on the standard ticket cost.
Top Lists in Hanoi
Hanoi Old Quarter
This is one of the oldest ancient quarters in Southeast Asia, with a rich history stretching back over a millennium. Hanoi Old Quarter was once the economic and cultural center of Thang Long.
The most captivating feature is the timeless beauty of the closely packed tube houses adorned with vibrant red-tiled roofs and exquisitely carved wooden doors. They create a unique architectural ensemble that is steeped in history.
While wandering through the Old Quarter, you can admire the unique architecture of the Turtle Tower and The Huc Bridge. There are baking or painting classes and traditional art performances where you can experience traditional cultural activities.
This is one of the oldest ancient quarters in Southeast Asia, with a rich history stretching back over a millennium. Hanoi Old Quarter was once the economic and cultural center of Thang Long.
The most captivating feature is the timeless beauty of the closely packed tube houses adorned with vibrant red-tiled roofs and exquisitely carved wooden doors. They create a unique architectural ensemble that is steeped in history.
While wandering through the Old Quarter, you can admire the unique architecture of the Turtle Tower and The Huc Bridge. There are baking or painting classes and traditional art performances where you can experience traditional cultural activities.
Immerse yourself in the ancient architecture of Hanoi Old Quarter - Source: Pixabay
Temple Of Literature
As the first university in Vietnam, the ancient Temple of Literature has cultivated countless talents for the nation. Covered an area of 54,331 square meters, the whole complex includes the Exterior—Giam Garden & Lake of Literature, and the Interior Area is divided into five courtyards.
Each courtyard features brick walls and has three gates—a large central one with two smaller gates on either side. Lake of Literature in front of the main gate of Literature Temple has Kim Chau islet in the heart of the lake, where the ancient city's poetry discussions took place.
The west side of the temple is the Giam Garden—a crucial space used for displaying many octagonal houses and ornamental plants. Throughout the Tet Holidays, you can watch poetry performances, dragon dances, or water puppet shows.
Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum
The Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, a grand and reverent architectural structure, stands in the historic Ba Dinh Square of Hanoi. The architecture, designed in a contemporary style, seamlessly integrates into its surroundings. The entire structure is constructed using premium materials, ensuring both longevity and aesthetic appeal.
Visiting the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum offers a chance to witness Ba Dinh Square, Uncle Ho's remains, and artifacts associated with Uncle Ho's life and career.
Visit Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum - Source: Pexels
Local Specialties To Enjoy When Visiting Hanoi
If you've explored Hanoi, make sure to indulge in the city's delicious local cuisine.
- Pho: The perfect balance of the sweet broth, fragrant meat, and spicy seasonings makes a traditional Vietnamese noodle soup. The soft, white rice noodles are served in a steaming hot broth with thinly sliced beef, scallions, fresh herbs, and a touch of pepper. The combination is simply delicious.
- Bun cha: This is a Vietnamese dish consisting of rice noodles, grilled pork, and a bowl of sweet and sour fish sauce. Originating from Northern Vietnam, Bun Cha is one of the most enduring dishes in Hanoi and is considered a signature dish of the capital's cuisine.
- Bun Dau Mam Tom: No trip to Hanoi is complete without trying Bun Dau Mam Tom. The fatty taste of fried tofu, pungent fermented shrimp paste, fresh herbs, and the crispness of green sticky rice patties will make you remember.
- Mien Luon (Eel Noodles): The crispy fried eel slices not only remove any fishy smell but also give the eel a completely different appearance. Who would have thought that a bowl of eel noodle soup, with its chewy noodles and flavorful broth, could be so comforting and nutritious?
- Egg Coffee: The coffee is brewed in a traditional phin filter, but it's topped with a thick layer of egg yolk cream. This is a unique blend that creates the most distinctive drink of the capital city—A special gift that Hanoi offers to tourists.
Hanoi Accommodation: Hotels Or homestay
Hotels
The convenient location is one of Hanoi Hotel's strong points. For easy access to the Old Quarter, Hoan Kiem Lake, and other top attractions, many hotels are situated in the heart of the city.
Some even offer a wide range of amenities such as restaurants, spas, gyms, room service, and free Wi-Fi, aiming to provide guests with maximum comfort and convenience.
To enhance the cultural experience, tourists can even join traditional activities and experience culinary at hotels. So great!
Top recommended hotels:
The convenient location is one of Hanoi Hotel's strong points. For easy access to the Old Quarter, Hoan Kiem Lake, and other top attractions, many hotels are situated in the heart of the city.
Some even offer a wide range of amenities such as restaurants, spas, gyms, room service, and free Wi-Fi, aiming to provide guests with maximum comfort and convenience.
To enhance the cultural experience, tourists can even join traditional activities and experience culinary at hotels. So great!
Top recommended hotels:
- Lotte Hotel Hanoi
- L'HÔTEL du LAC Hanoi
- Soleil Boutique Hotel
- La Siesta Premium Hang Be Hotel
- JM Marvel Hotel & Spa
Hostels
Hostels are significantly cheaper than hotels, making them a great option for travelers on a budget. They often have common areas like living rooms, kitchens, and terraces, which are designed to be very attractive and comfortable. This is an ideal place for you to relax, work, or organize fun activities with friends.
Similarly, most hostels in Hanoi are located in the city center, near famous tourist attractions, so you can get around and explore the capital.
More than just a place to stay overnight, hostels are also a vibrant community where you can meet, interact, and share interesting stories with travelers from all over the world.
Top recommended hostels:
- Hanoi Solo Hostel
- Global Backpacker Hostel
- The Drift Backpackers Hostel
- The One Hostel Hanoi
- Old Quarter View Hanoi Hostel
Homestays
Would you like to experience the capital culture, stay in a cozy space, and get an affordable price? Well, Hanoi homestays offer a unique blend of affordability, comfort, and cultural immersion. They are a great alternative to traditional hotels for travelers seeking an authentic experience.
There are a variety of popular homestay options available in Hanoi for your consideration, such as old quarter homestays, villa homestays, or apartment homestays.
Top recommended homestays:
- Charlie House
- Lee Homestay
- Tranquility Stay
- Picturesque Hanoi Homestay
- Tokin Homestay
Vietnam Itineraries with Hanoi
Hanoi & Saigon Classic Experiences
6 days 5 nights
3N Saigon - 2N Hanoi
- 5 Activities
- 3 star Hotel
- Join-in group daily tours
- English Speaking guide
Only from
279 USD
Classic Hanoi & Halong Tour Super Save
5 days 4 nights
3N Hanoi - 1N Halong
- 3 star Hanoi hotel 4
- star Halong Overnight Cruise
- 2 activities
- English-speaking guide
Only from
210 USD
Classic Route Hanoi, Halong & Ninh Binh Super Save
5 days 4 nights
4N Hanoi
- 3 activities
- Join-in group daily tours
- English-speaking guide
Only from
200 USD
Best Landscapes of Northern Vietnam
7 days 6 nights
4N Hanoi - 1N Halong - 1N Sapa
- 5 activities
- 4 star Hanoi & Sapa hotel
- 4 star Halong Overnight Cruise
- Fansipan Cable Car experience
- Private English-speaking guide
Only from
457 USD
Vietnam North to South with Sapa
11 days 10 nights
1N Hanoi - 1N Halong - 1N Sapa - 2N Danang - 2N Saigon
- 3 star Hanoi, Sapa, Danang & Saigon hotels
- 4 star Halong Overnight Cruise
- 9 activities
- Sapa express coach transfer
- Private airport transfer
Only from
623 USD
Classic Hanoi & Halong
5 days 4 nights
3N Hanoi - 1N Ha Long
- 3 activities
- 4 star Halong Overnight Cruise
- Private airport transfer
Only from
242 USD
Vietnam North to South
8 days 7 nights
2N Hanoi - 1N Halong - 2N Danang - 2 Saigon
- 8 activities
- 3 star Hanoi, Danang & Saigon hotels
- 4 star Halong Overnight Cruise
- Join-in group daily tours
- Private airport transfer
Only from
436 USD
Hanoi & Halong Super Save
4 days 3 nights
3N Hanoi - 1N Halong
- 2 activities
- 3 star Hanoi hotel, central located
- Private airport transfer
Only from
143 USD
FAQ
Which month is best to visit Hanoi?
August to October (autumn) is a great time to depart to Hanoi because the weather is comfortable at the moment. The refreshing atmosphere is ideal for the outdoors.
How many days in Hanoi is enough?
To truly appreciate Hanoi's history, culture, and culinary scene, the recommended length of stay is about 3-4 days.
Is Hanoi, Vietnam, safe for solo female travelers?
Hanoi is a very safe city for women traveling alone. Hanoians are known for their hospitality and willingness to help tourists. At the same time, Hanoi has a very low crime rate, particularly when it comes to crimes against tourists.
How much does Grab cost from Hanoi airport to the city center?
The distance from Noi Bai International Airport to Hanoi City Center is 22.8 miles, and it takes 51 minutes to drive. If you move from the airport to the Old Quarter, it takes 230.000-250.000VND.
How much cash do I need in Hanoi?
If you stay with a local family in Hanoi, you only need about $500, excluding airfare. Even with $200, you'll be fine and have a good experience if you eat and live like a local. However, to travel around northern Vietnam, typically visiting Ha Long Bay, we recommend you bring from $1000 to $1500.
What to avoid in Hanoi?
It's advisable to avoid drinking tap water in Hanoi due to potential health risks.