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The City

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.

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Do & See

With a one-of-a-kind mix of ancient history and modern charm, the vibrant capital of Vietnam promises an unforgettable adventure for every traveller.

Start your exploration at Hoan Kiem Lake, a serene oasis surrounded by the bustling Old Quarter. Here, you can visit Ngoc Son Temple, stroll along tree-lined paths, and witness the traditional morning tai chi sessions. The Old Quarter is a maze of narrow streets brimming with shops, street food vendors, and historic architecture, where each street specialises in different trades, offering a unique glimpse into Hanoi's rich cultural tapestry.

For a deeper dive into Vietnamese history, visit the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and the Temple of Literature, Vietnam's first university. For contemporary experiences, enjoy the nightlife in Tay Ho District and savour Hanoi's renowned street food scene, from pho to banh mi.

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Dining

Hanoi restaurants tend to centre around Vietnamese with Asian fusion or European fare, particularly French and Italian. You are more likely to find international dining in the Hoan Kiem District but for local authentic flavours (and Hanoi’s famous Pho noodle soup dish) head to the Old Quarter street vendors.

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Cafés

Because of its French colonial history and the fact that the locals love their coffee, Hanoi has a wide selection of cafés. Just about every block has a coffee shop, everything from a simple local café to a Western-style venue.

The Vietnamese truly like to experiment with their coffee. So when visiting Hanoi, make sure to try the egg coffee as well as the coconut coffee. Both are highly appreciated among tourists and locals alike.

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Bars & Nightlife

Hanoi has only recently come to grips with the concept of nightlife past 10 pm, and the result is pockets of activity dotted around the city. Most tourists head for the bustling Bao Khanh Street in the northwest of Hoan Kiem, where late-night hangouts and bars huddle together, which attracts the locals just as much as out-of-towners. There aren’t a huge amount of actual nightclubs in the city, but the handful you do come across are riotous affairs that stay open until the small hours and pump up the volume.

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Shopping

If you love shopping, Hanoi won't disappoint. Renowned for its bustling markets and colonial shophouses, the city offers a wide array of authentic silk, local crafts, and souvenirs. Fashion enthusiasts will also find plenty of boutiques and shopping malls featuring both local and international brands. The traditional markets scattered throughout Hanoi are perfect for finding unique gifts to take home. For the most diverse selection of Vietnamese souvenirs, pay a visit to the Hoan Kiem Lake area and the Old Quarter.

When it's time to escape the afternoon heat, Hanoi's shopping malls provide a cool respite. TASCO Mall, one of the largest in Vietnam, is a must-visit for an extensive shopping experience. Trang Tien Plaza, known for high-end fashion, boasts all the well-known brands. Whether you're exploring lively markets or indulging in the luxury of modern malls, one thing is certain: you won't leave Hanoi empty-handed.

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