Hanoi Travel Guide (Northern Vietnam/Vietnam/Southeast Asia/Asia)

Introduction to Hanoi

Hanoi is Vietnam’s capital city and is located in the northern part of the country. It is known for its rich history, ancient landmarks, vibrant culture, and delicious cuisine. The city is a mix of the old and the new, with modern skyscrapers standing alongside ancient temples and pagodas.

Hanoi is a popular destination for travelers, and it offers a wide range of things to see and do. From exploring the city’s historical landmarks and museums, to hiking or biking along scenic paths, to indulging in the local food and drink scene, Hanoi has something for everyone.

List of Places to Visit in Hanoi

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

One of the main attractions of Hanoi is its rich cultural heritage, which is reflected in the city’s many museums and historical landmarks. Some of the must-visit places include:

Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum: This is a monumental marble edifice dedicated to the founder of the modern Vietnamese state.
Vietnam Museum of Ethnology: The museum is dedicated to preserving and showcasing the country’s rich cultural heritage and showcases artifacts from Vietnam’s many ethnic groups.
Temple of Literature: Built in the 11th century, this ancient temple complex is dedicated to Confucius and is considered to be Vietnam’s first national university.
Hoa Lo Prison: Also known as the “Hanoi Hilton,” this prison was used by the French colonialists to incarcerate Vietnamese nationalist soldiers. It was later used by the North Vietnamese to hold American prisoners of war during the Vietnam War.

Natural Attractions of Hanoi: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Apart from its cultural attractions, Hanoi also boasts several scenic natural attractions that are worth visiting. Some of the most popular ones are:

Hoa Binh Lake: Located 90 kilometers from Hanoi, this scenic lake offers outdoor activities such as boating, fishing, and hiking.
Ba Vi National Park: This national park is located 50 kilometers from Hanoi and is known for its stunning mountain views, hot springs, and waterfalls.
The Perfume Pagoda: This is a complex of Buddhist temples and shrines built into the limestone cliffs of Huong Tich mountain and is accessible via a scenic boat ride.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Hanoi

Hanoi offers several scenic hiking and biking routes for those who wish to explore the city and its surroundings on foot or by bike. Some of the popular routes are:

West Lake: This is a large freshwater lake located in the center of Hanoi, and is a popular spot for jogging and cycling.
Hoa Lu Ancient Capital: This ancient city is located 90 kilometers from Hanoi and is a popular destination for biking tours that pass through rice fields and rural villages.
Tam Dao National Park: This park is located 80 kilometers from Hanoi and offers several hiking trails that lead to scenic waterfalls and mountain views.

Best Things to Do in Hanoi: Activities and Tours

Hanoi offers a wide range of activities and tours for travelers, ranging from history and culture tours to cooking classes and street food tours. Some of the best things to do in Hanoi include:

Old Quarter Walking Tour: This tour takes you through Hanoi’s historic Old Quarter and showcases the city’s rich cultural heritage.
Street Food Tour: This tour takes you through Hanoi’s bustling street food scene and allows you to taste many of the city’s most famous dishes.
Water Puppet Show: This traditional Vietnamese form of entertainment involves puppets that perform on water and is a must-see for any traveler visiting Hanoi.

Week-Long Itinerary for Hanoi

For travelers who wish to spend a week in Hanoi, here’s a suggested itinerary:

Day	Activities
Day 1	Explore the Old Quarter with a walking tour
Day 2	Visit the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology and the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum
Day 3	Take a day trip to the Perfume Pagoda
Day 4	Bike along the Red River and explore the ancient capital of Hoa Lu
Day 5	Visit the Temple of Literature and enjoy a street food tour
Day 6	Take a day trip to Ba Vi National Park
Day 7	Relax and shop for souvenirs at Dong Xuan Market

Food and Drink Scene of Hanoi

Hanoi is widely regarded as one of the best cities in Asia for food lovers. The city’s street food scene is particularly famous, and offers a wide range of local dishes that are both delicious and affordable.

Must-Try Dishes

Some of the most popular dishes in Hanoi include:

Pho: This is a traditional Vietnamese noodle soup that is made with beef or chicken and is served with fresh herbs and lime.
Bun Cha: This is a dish made with grilled pork, vermicelli noodles, and a dipping sauce.
Banh Mi: This is a Vietnamese baguette sandwich that is filled with various meats, pickled vegetables, and herbs.

Local Beverages

Hanoi is also known for its unique beverages, which include:

Egg Coffee: This is a sweet and creamy coffee that is made with egg yolks and condensed milk. It’s a must-try for any coffee lover visiting Hanoi.
Bia Hoi: This is a local beer that is brewed fresh daily and is incredibly cheap (usually less than $1 per glass).

Where to Stay in Hanoi: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Hanoi has a wide range of accommodation options for travelers, ranging from luxury hotels to budget-friendly hostels and guesthouses. Some of the best areas to stay in Hanoi include:

The Old Quarter: This is the historic heart of Hanoi and is home to many of the city’s famous landmarks, as well as a wide range of accommodation options.
West Lake: This is a more upscale area of Hanoi and is home to many luxury hotels and villas.
Ba Dinh: This is a more residential area of Hanoi that is popular among long-term travelers and expats.

What to Buy in Hanoi: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Hanoi is a great place to shop for unique souvenirs and local products that reflect the city’s rich cultural heritage. Some of the best things to buy in Hanoi include:

Silk Products: Vietnam is famous for its silk production, and there are many shops in Hanoi that sell high-quality silk products such as scarves, shirts, and dresses.
Lacquerware: This is a traditional Vietnamese art form that involves coating wooden objects with layers of lacquer. Many shops in Hanoi sell beautiful lacquerware objects such as bowls and vases.
Handicrafts: Hanoi is home to many artisans who produce beautiful handicrafts such as pottery, ceramics, and woven baskets.

Local Culture and Customs of Hanoi

Hanoi has a rich cultural heritage that is reflected in its customs and traditions. Some tips to keep in mind while visiting Hanoi include:

Respect Local Customs: Vietnamese people are known for their hospitality and politeness. It’s important to respect local customs and traditions, such as taking off your shoes when entering someone’s home or a temple.
Dress Conservatively: Vietnamese people tend to dress conservatively, so it’s important to cover your shoulders and knees when visiting temples or other religious sites.
Learn Some Basic Vietnamese: While it’s not necessary to speak Vietnamese in Hanoi, learning a few basic phrases such as “hello” and “thank you” can go a long way in showing respect for the local culture.

Best Time to Visit Hanoi

The best time to visit Hanoi is during the spring (from March to May) or the fall (from September to November). During these months, the weather is mild and pleasant, and there are usually fewer tourists than during the summer months.

Do’s and Don’ts of Hanoi

Do:

Explore the Old Quarter: The historic Old Quarter is one of the must-visit areas of Hanoi, and is home to many of the city’s famous landmarks and attractions.
Try the Local Street Food: Hanoi is famous for its street food scene, and trying some of the local delicacies is a must-do for any food lover visiting the city.
Respect Local Customs: Vietnamese people are known for their hospitality and politeness, and it’s important to respect local customs and traditions.

Don’t:

Be Disrespectful to the Local Culture: It’s important to be respectful of the local culture and customs while visiting Hanoi. This includes dressing conservatively when visiting religious sites, and behaving respectfully towards locals.
Drink Tap Water: It’s not safe to drink tap water in Hanoi, so it’s important to stick to bottled water during your stay in the city.

Safety and Health

Safety in Hanoi

While Hanoi is generally a safe city, it’s important to take the usual precautions while traveling. Some safety tips to keep in mind include:

Avoid Petty Crime: Petty crime such as pickpocketing and bag snatching can occur in Hanoi, especially in tourist areas. Be aware of your surroundings and keep your valuables safe.
Be Careful When Crossing the Road: Hanoi’s traffic can be chaotic and it’s important to exercise caution when crossing the road.

Health in Hanoi

Vietnam is a developing country, so it’s important to take some basic health precautions while traveling. Some tips to keep in mind include:

Drink Bottled Water: Tap water in Hanoi is not safe to drink, so it’s important to stick to bottled water.
Get Vaccinated: It’s a good idea to get vaccinated before traveling to Hanoi, especially for common diseases such as hepatitis A and B.
Protect Yourself From Mosquitoes: Mosquito-borne illnesses such as dengue fever and malaria can occur in Hanoi, so it’s important to protect yourself from mosquito bites. Wear long-sleeved clothing and insect repellant.

Getting to Hanoi: Transportation Options and Logistics

Hanoi is well-connected to other parts of Vietnam and the world, and getting to the city is relatively easy. Some transportation options to consider include:

Airports Near Hanoi

Noi Bai International Airport: This is the largest airport in northern Vietnam and is located about 35 kilometers from Hanoi city center.

Bus Stations Near Hanoi

My Dinh Bus Station: This bus station is located in the western part of Hanoi and is the main bus station for long-distance buses to other parts of Vietnam.
Giap Bat Bus Station: This bus station is located in the southern part of Hanoi and is the main bus station for buses to nearby provinces and cities.

Other Options

Train: Hanoi has several train stations that connect the city to other parts of Vietnam.
Taxi: Taxis are a convenient way to get around Hanoi, but it’s important to use reputable taxi companies to avoid scams.

How to Get Around in Hanoi

Hanoi has a wide range of transportation options for travelers, including:

Walking: Hanoi’s historic Old Quarter is best explored on foot, and walking is a great way to discover the city’s hidden gems.
Cycling: Hanoi has several bike rental shops, and cycling is a great way to explore the city’s surrounding countryside.
Taxi/Grab: Taxis and ride-sharing services such as Grab are widely available in Hanoi and are a convenient way to get around the city.
Public Transportation: Hanoi’s public transportation system includes buses and trains, but it can be confusing for foreigners to navigate.

Where to Go Next from Hanoi: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Hanoi is a great starting point for exploring other parts of northern Vietnam. Some nearby destinations and excursions to consider include:

Halong Bay: This stunning bay is located about 170 kilometers from Hanoi and is famous for its limestone cliffs and emerald waters.
Sapa: This mountain town is located about 350 kilometers from Hanoi and is home to several ethnic minority groups. It’s a popular destination for trekking and hiking.
Ninh Binh: This scenic region is located about 90 kilometers from Hanoi and is home to several beautiful temples and natural attractions, including Tam Coc and Trang An.

Conclusion

Hanoi is an incredible city that offers a wide range of things to see and do. From exploring the city’s rich cultural heritage to hiking along scenic paths, to indulging in the local food and drink scene, there’s something for everyone in this vibrant city. Use this comprehensive guide to plan your trip to Hanoi and get ready for an unforgettable adventure.