Hanoi is a vibrant city where traditional charm meets lively modern energy — perfect for travellers seeking an immersive urban experience. Its winding streets in the Old Quarter, tree-lined boulevards of the French Quarter and serene spots like Hoan Kiem Lake offer a mix of bustle and calm that suits many tastes.
Food lovers will feel right at home — from steaming bowls of Pho and tasty Banh Mi sandwiches to vibrant street-food alleys and cosy cafés, Hanoi serves a feast for the senses.
Whether you enjoy exploring temples, relaxing by lakes, shopping for handicrafts and souvenirs, or sipping coffee amid lively streets — Hanoi offers a travel experience that blends culture, flavours, relaxation and urban buzz.
Hanoi is known for its rich history, French colonial architecture, vibrant street food, ancient temples, and the atmospheric Old Quarter. It’s also the gateway to Halong Bay and Sapa.
The best time to visit is October to April, when the weather is cool and pleasant. Summers (May–August) are hot and humid with occasional rain.
A 2–3 day stay is enough to explore major attractions, enjoy street food, and visit nearby cultural sites. Add extra days if you plan short trips to Ninh Binh, Halong Bay, or Sapa.
Top sights include:
Hoan Kiem Lake & Ngoc Son Temple
Old Quarter
Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum
Temple of Literature
Hoa Lo Prison Museum
West Lake & Tran Quoc Pagoda
Thang Long Imperial Citadel
Yes, Hanoi is generally safe. Just be cautious of:
Busy traffic while crossing streets
Occasional pickpockets in crowded areas
Negotiating prices with taxis or street vendors
Overall, it’s a very tourist-friendly city.
Hanoi is famous for its delicious Vietnamese dishes, including:
Pho
Bun Cha
Banh Mi
Egg Coffee
Cha Ca
Spring Rolls
You can explore using:
Walking, especially in the Old Quarter
Grab (Vietnam’s Uber)
Taxis (use trusted companies)
Scooter rentals (only for confident drivers)
Cyclo rides for a cultural experience
The currency is the Vietnamese Dong (VND). While major hotels and restaurants accept cards, many local shops and street vendors prefer cash, so keep some VND handy.
