Travel to Hanoi, Vietnam with KeyTours Vacations

Discover Hanoi's Wonders

Hanoi, Vietnam’s storied capital, is a captivating fusion of history, tradition, and modern energy. Stroll through the maze-like alleys of the Old Quarter, where the scent of sizzling street food fills the air, and timeless French colonial architecture stands alongside centuries-old pagodas. Visit the tranquil Hoan Kiem Lake, pay homage at the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, and dive into Vietnam’s rich past at the Temple of Literature. Whether you're sipping egg coffee at a hidden café or exploring the city's vibrant night markets, Hanoi offers an unforgettable cultural immersion.

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Description

Most travellers base themselves in the central Hoan Kiem District, in the vicinity of Hoan Kiem Lake, whose pathways and surrounding greenery are the site of much activity as dawn breaks. Don’t be surprised to see graceful schools of tai chi-ers moving as one as the sun rises, and Hanoi health fanatics doing jogging laps before work. Northwest of the lake is the legendary Old Quarter with its winding alleyways and hundreds of quaint shops, guesthouses, galleries, and places to eat. Tourists flock to local establishments, open long after the doors have shut elsewhere in the city. It’s also crammed with temples and monuments to ponder over between eating and shopping. Ba Dinh District, to the west of the lake, is the place to head for a little historic enlightenment – The Mausoleum, the Museum of Ho Chi Minh and the Hanoi Old Citadel all reside there. The Old French Quarter, south of the lake, will transport you back to the days before the French realised that the Vietnamese were a force to be reckoned with. Upscale restaurants, hotels and embassies now occupy the stunning white villas.

Useful information

Population:

5,067,000 (2022)

Currency:

Vietnamese dong (VND)

Emergency Info:

Police: 113
Fire: 114
Ambulance: 115

Opening Hours:

Shops are generally open from 8am–9pm, but can close for lunch for one or two hours. Banks are open Mon–Fri from 8am–11:30am and 1pm–4pm, and are closed on Saturday and Sunday. Governmental offices are open Mon–Fri from 7:30am–4:30pm, excluding a one-hour lunch, and closed on Saturday and Sunday.

Do & See

Cooking Class

Why settle for just savouring the local cuisine when you could learn the ins and outs of Vietnamese cooking and bring some of the country’s culture with you? Join a cooking class at a local villa, where you'll receive expert guidance and hands-on experience crafting traditional dishes. Before getting your hands dirty, dive into the hustle and bustle of a local market, where you'll select the freshest ingredients for your culinary creations.

Cuc Phuong National Park

Situated in Vietnam's Red River Delta, Cuc Phuong National Park, the country's first national park, beckons travellers with its natural splendour and ecological significance. As the largest nature reserve in Vietnam, Cuc Phuong boasts unparalleled biodiversity, making it a vital sanctuary for a wide array of plant and animal species. Despite its nearly three-hour journey from Hanoi, this gem in Ninh Bình Province is well worth the effort.

Full-Day Ninh Binh Tour from Hanoi

Embark on an exhilarating tour from Hanoi to Ninh Binh, where history and natural beauty intertwine harmoniously. Begin your adventure by visiting Hoa Lu, once the capital of Vietnam. Then, explore Mua Cave and take in views from the mountain above. Next, glide through the mystical Tam Coc caves on a scenic boat ride. For a taste of authentic Vietnamese cuisine, savour a tasty lunch by the Ngo Dong River. Finally, cap off your day with a bike ride through lush fields to the Bich Dong Pagoda cave temples.

Halong Bay

Hanoi is the ideal gateway to Halong Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and Vietnam's crown jewel. Embark on a scenic cruise along the emerald waters, weaving through thousands of limestone islands and islets adorned with lush greenery. Explore hidden caves and grottos, paddle through secluded lagoons by kayak, or simply unwind on deck, soaking in the breathtaking panoramic

Hanoi Street Food Tour

Embark on a delicious culinary adventure with this Hanoi Street Food Tour, led by a knowledgeable local foodie. Dive into the rich flavours that define Vietnam's capital as you sample a diverse array of dishes—from rice noodle soup with beef to snails and steamed pancakes. Whether you choose a lunch or dinner departure, you're in for a treat as you savour the authentic tastes of Hanoi at local eateries carefully selected by your guide.

Ho Chi Minh Museum

This museum honours President Ho Chi Minh who is considered to be a Vietnamese hero. It holds a collection of his letters and military orders that explain the Communist Party’s early days to the present.

Ho Chi Minh’s Mausoleum

Ho Chi Minh's Mausoleum is the final resting place of the revered Vietnamese revolutionary leader and President Ho Chi Minh. It is Hanoi's number one tourist attraction and an important historical site. It was built within two years, from 1973 to 1975, and its design draws inspiration from Moscow's Lenin Mausoleum. If you're lucky you might catch the changing of the guard outside the mausoleum.

Hoa Lo Prison

Constructed by the French in 1896, this prison was taken over by the Vietnamese in 1954 to house prisoners of war. The original guillotine room and stories told by the ex-inmates themselves make this a gruesome but compelling experience.

Dining

Al Fresco's

This restaurant is raved about by Westerners who miss home cooking. Al Fresco’s serves huge, tasty portions of ribs, burgers, steaks, pizza, and pasta.

El Gaucho

El Gaucho is an elegant Argentinian steakhouse renowned for its menu of high-end classics featuring succulent Angus beef and seafood delights. Here, steaks are cooked to perfection, ensuring a mouthwatering experience with every bite, while vegetarians can enjoy a selection of equally enticing options. Imbibe in excellent cocktails crafted to perfection, all within the warm and welcoming atmosphere that envelops guests upon arrival.

Hanoi Taco Bar

An exciting destination for Latin-Vietnamese fusion cuisine where to relish high-quality and well-balanced dishes in the city's Old Quarter. Each dish is cooked to perfection, combining Mexican influences with Vietnamese, plus fantastic cocktails are also served by the friendly staff.

Jacksons Steakhouse

If you need a break from the local food, then Jacksons Steakhouse is a good option if you are into meat. They serve the best cuts of beef from the USA, Australia and New Zealand, which you will need to pay more for but definitely worth it. An extensive wine list is offered to match the top-quality dishes.

La Badiane

Bathed in soft light, La Badiane's classy interior features a checkered floor, a high ceiling, and historical photos that tell tales of Hanoi's past. Indulge in their French-inspired cuisine, where bold flavours and expertly combined seasonings tantalise the taste buds with every bite. And for the perfect finale to your meal, be sure to save some room for their mouth-watering desserts.

Namaste Hanoi

Namaste's owner Mr. Gopi is truly passionate about Indian cooking, which is clearly shown on the menu and the quality of every dish. Everything from mouth-watering curries of the north to hot and spicy soups of the south is served here.

Old Quarter

Hanoi's Old Quarter is the perfect place to explore traditional Vietnamese food. From steaming bowls of pho to crispy banh mi sandwiches and savoury bun cha, you'll find an assortment of authentic (and affordable) Vietnamese dishes to tantalise your taste buds. Wander through the bustling streets lined with food stalls and tiny eateries, and you'll discover an endless array of flavours and aromas waiting to be savoured.

Red Bean

When dining at Red Bean, you will get the chance to experience modern Vietnamese cuisine cooked with high quality and innovative ideas without losing the authentic Vietnamese roots.

Cafés

Cafe Giảng

Nestled in a hidden corner of Hanoi's Old Quarter, Cafe Giảng is an iconic spot that draws locals and tourists alike with its legendary egg coffee. Despite coffee shops now offering variations, Café Giảng claims to be the originator of this unique concoction. Using a blend of raw egg yolk, robusta coffee, condensed milk, butter, and cheese, Café Giảng's egg coffee delivers a frothy, indulgent experience reminiscent of liquefied tiramisu. It's a must-visit destination for travellers seeking to savour a taste of Hanoi's history and innovation in every sip

Cafe Phố Cổ

Cafe Phố Cổ is one of Hanoi's best-kept secrets—literally. Tucked away at the back of a silk shop, this hidden gem is definitely worth the search. Once there, try the delicious egg coffee (coffee topped with beaten egg white) and enjoy it on the rooftop with an amazing view over Hoan Kiem Lake.

Maison de Tet Decor

Tucked away in a corner of West Lake in Hanoi, you will find this delightful hidden gem. This charming French villa with a serene atmosphere offers an outstanding range of organic and gluten free Vietnamese and European food and delicious house roasted coffee. Most of the products comes from organic farms and is well prepared in the open-plan kitchen by the skilful chefs.

Om Hanoi: Yoga & Cafe

Everything cooked here is 100% natural and the food is cooked with joy, passion and love with a creative touch. The menu offers a great selection of veggie and vegan options. Om Hanoi is a small café in the French quarter, down a small alley and for sure worth a visit. While you are here, why not attend to a yoga class to release all your stress?

S'Patisserie

A French café with an amazing lake view over Ho Hoan Kiem, S'Patisserie is a great place to visit for fresh pastries accompanied with hot or iced coffee. The avocado mousse cake is another delight which is highly recommended and should not be missed.

The Hanoi Social Club

This little artsy café is located in a quite back street and is on two floors with a cosy and relaxing ambiance. A place to visit for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Regular music events are also hosted here to entertain their guests.

The Note Coffee

Inside this small café, hundreds of love notes are posted on its walls. Enjoy a delicious coffee while reading them, or why not write your own and contribute to the decor?

Bars & Nightlife

Bia Hoi Corner

Bia Hoi Corner, located in Hanoi's Old Quarter at the crossroads of Ta Hien and Luong Ngoc Quyen Streets, is a popular gathering spot where locals, expats, and tourists meet every night for a good time. As evening falls, the streets come alive with hundreds of people sitting on colourful plastic stools with a pint of bia hoi (beer) in their hand.

Binh Minh’s Jazz Club

Live jazz music is organised every night at 21.00, making it a great place where to chill out while sipping a cocktail. The club is located in the heart of the Old Quarter and has both indoor and outdoor seating area. Also serving food if you would feel hungry.

Hanoi Rock City

Founded in 2010, Hanoi Rock City (HRC) is a independent live music venue, where to listen to original music or simply enjoy a drink in the friendly and dynamic bar. Every weekend events are hosted here while during the week it has more of a quiet vibe. For upcoming events check the website below.

Hero Club Hanoi

Dance the night away at this industrial-style nightclub with party-loving locals and expats to the tunes of deep house to hip-hop and R&B. International DJs are regularly visiting Hero Club Hanoi to keep up the loud and fun party atmosphere. The club is located ten-minute taxi ride from downtown Hanoi.

Infinity Club

This is a local favourite in Hanoi´s vibrant clubbing scene where the city’s stylish party-goers head for to have a fun night out. With a spacious dance floor, impressive lighting, affordably-priced alcohol, local Dj spinning hip-hop, house, trance and electro, you cannot just go wrong here.

King Pirates Pub

With a relaxing laid back atmosphere, King Pirates Pub is a charming place where to enjoy reasonably priced cocktails and other beverages, all served by the friendly crew. If you are looking for a fun night out, then come aboard at this themed pub with lots of personality and walk out as a pirate.

R & R Tavern

Originally started in 1995 on Lo Su, R & R Tavern is one of the longest serving music bars in Hanoi and is now located Nghi Tam Street. A great place where to catch up with friends in a laid-back and hippie-influenced atmosphere. Every Friday they host live music and Sunday is open mic night.

Sunset Bar

Sunset Bar is the place to head for when it comes to cocktails and its stunning lakeside setting. Sip a cocktail at this cosy outdoor terrace with plush daybeds where you can chill out and admire the amazing sunset with West Lake as a backdrop. This is a beautiful designer spot where to enjoy a cool afternoon in a serene atmosphere.

Shopping

Craft Link

Located next to the Temple of Literature, Craft Link is a nonprofit shop dedicated to empowering ethnic minorities and disadvantaged groups, by offering a curated selection of sustainable and handmade products. From exquisite scarves and cloths crafted from soft cotton or silk to artisanal housewares and other stunning items ideal for gifting.

Hang Bac Street

Hang Bac Street, located in Hanoi's Old Quarter, is a lively and historic destination renowned for its traditional silver crafts. As one of the city's 36 traditional trade streets, Hang Bac, meaning 'silver', is famed for its exquisite jewellery shops that preserve centuries-old crafting techniques. This vibrant street is also packed with restaurants, bars, and bustling activity, making it a must-visit for travellers seeking unique souvenirs and an authentic slice of Hanoi's rich cultural heritage.

Hang Gai Street

Hang Gai Street, also known as Silk Street, is the top destination in Hanoi for high-quality silk materials and traditional Vietnamese apparel.

Nha Tho Street

Nha Tho Street runs right up to the entrance of St Joseph's Cathedral and is filled with trendy boutique shops offering fashionable clothing, handcrafted jewelry, home decor, and unique souvenirs. The street is famous for its charming atmosphere, blending modern and traditional Vietnamese styles.

Old Quarter

Shopaholics should start in the Old Quarter where the winding cobbled streets are teemed with a wide range of goods, including traditional Vietnamese handicrafts, such as lacquerware, silk products, embroidered textiles, and wooden carvings. The streets are also lined with markets and shops selling everything, from colourful lanterns and bamboo goods to ceramics, antiques, and local artwork.

Quang Ba Flower Market

Even if you're not planning to buy flowers, a visit to the colourful Quang Ba Flower Market is an experience that should not be missed. In the early hours of the morning, local vendors fill the market with an impressive array of fresh blooms, ranging from traditional favourites like lotus flowers and chrysanthemums to exotic orchids and vibrant roses. Visitors to the market are treated to a sensory feast as they wander through the bustling aisles, admiring the stunning displays and mingling with locals as they go about their daily rituals.

TASCO Mall

TASCO Mall is a bustling three-storey indoor shopping destination located in the Long Bien district. It features a variety of shops offering everything from fashion and beauty products to electronics and home goods. The mall also houses a large grocery store along with a diverse food court.

Trang Tien Plaza

Spread over five floors, Trang Tien Plaza is a high-end shopping mall located at the southern end of Hoan Kiem Lake. The ground floor is home to top fashion brands including Burberry, Calvin Klein, Dior, Ralph Lauren, and Louis Vuitton, while the second floor boasts electronics and home furnishings. For dining options, the fifth floor offers a variety of international restaurants to satisfy any craving.

Tourist Information

Nội Bài International Airport (HAN)

Hanoi’s sparkling new Nội Bài International Airport is the second largest and busiest airport for passenger traffic in Vietnam. It is located 28km away from Hanoi city centre. Hanoi city bus numbers 7 and 17 leave from the right side of the terminal exit and take an hour to reach the city centre. They run from 5am–10pm, every 15-20 minutes. Airport minibuses congregate outside the arrival hall–the Vietnam Airlines minibus takes about 40 minutes and drops you outside their Hoan Kiem Lake office (south end). Tickets are sold inside the terminal building. However, many travellers opt for a taxi–there are hundreds outside the terminal exit gate. Unlike the minibuses, which run only intermittently at night, taxis are present 24 hours a day. A taxi ride to the city centre takes about 30-40 minutes. Another option for lower fares is the rideshare company Grab.

Public Transport

Taking a bus in Hanoi can be a convenient way to navigate the city, though it often demands patience and familiarity with the system. The bus network in Hanoi is extensive, covering most parts of the city, and fares are relatively cheap. That said, the bus routes, schedules, and signage may not always be easy to understand for visitors, as they are primarily in Vietnamese. Yet, major routes often feature English signage, and select buses provide electronic announcements in both Vietnamese and English. However, Hanoi is generally quite easy to explore on foot. Many of the city's attractions, markets, and neighbourhoods are within walking distance of each other, especially in the Old Quarter and around Hoan Kiem Lake.

Taxi

In bustling Hanoi, taxis are abundant. Make sure that your ride is charged according to the taxi meter. Having exact change handy is wise since drivers frequently lack it. For smooth communication, write down your destination as pronunciation challenges may arise. Alternatively, opt for Grab, Southeast Asia's Uber equivalent, through which rides can be conveniently arranged via the app.

Electricity

In Vietnam, electrical outlets typically operate at 220V/50Hz and commonly use plug types A and C. Type A features two flat parallel pins, while type C has two round pins. Travellers are advised to carry a power plug adapter to ensure compatibility with local sockets when visiting Vietnam.

Pharmacy

Pharmacy is called 'nhà thuốc' in Vietnamese. They can be found on nearly every square block of the city. Some of the main pharmacy chains in Hanoi, include Pharmacity and FPT Long Châu.

Telephone

Country code: +84 Area code: 4

Train

Hanoi train station is conveniently located in the city centre, with Gate A serving mainly guests travelling South to Danang, Hue, Nha Trang, and Ho Chi Minh City. Gate B serves guests travelling up north to Sapa. It takes about 10 minutes by taxi from either gate to Hanoi Old Quarter and Hoan Kiem Lake. Trains depart punctually with a variety of seat options: hard seat, soft seat, hard berth, and soft berth. Despite many shortcomings, taking the train in Vietnam is a safe and reliable means of transportation and an essential way for travellers to visit places such as Sapa.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best time to visit Hanoi?

The best time to visit Hanoi is during the spring (March to April) and autumn (September to November) when the weather is mild and pleasant, with less humidity and rainfall.

What are the must-see attractions in Hanoi?

Must-see attractions in Hanoi include the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, the Temple of Literature, Hoan Kiem Lake, and the Old Quarter, which offers a glimpse into the city's vibrant street life.

How should I get around Hanoi?

In Hanoi, you can get around by using taxis, motorbike taxis, or the local bus system. Walking is also a great way to explore the Old Quarter and nearby attractions.

What local dishes should I try in Hanoi?

In Hanoi, be sure to try local dishes such as pho (noodle soup), bun cha (grilled pork with noodles), and banh mi (Vietnamese sandwich), which are popular street foods.

How many days should I spend in Hanoi?

Spending three to four days in Hanoi is ideal to explore the main attractions, enjoy the local cuisine, and take a day trip to nearby destinations like Ha Long Bay.

What is the local currency in Hanoi and how can I exchange money?

The local currency in Hanoi is the Vietnamese Dong (VND). You can exchange money at banks, currency exchange offices, or withdraw from ATMs throughout the city.

What are some recommended day trips from Hanoi?

Recommended day trips from Hanoi include visiting Ha Long Bay for its stunning limestone karsts, the ancient capital of Hoa Lu, and the scenic landscapes of Tam Coc.

Trips

Hanoi Discovery

Classic Vietnam Explorer

Hanoi Discovery

Classic Vietnam Explorer

Hanoi Discovery

Classic Vietnam Explorer

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