Hanoi

Welcome to Hanoi

My trip to Hanoi in Vietnam, was one of the most memorable experiences of my life as a traveller. The city is an intoxicating blend of tradition and modernity, with a rich cultural history that captivated me from the moment I arrived.

Hanoi, the capital city of Vietnam, is known for its rich history and culture. The city is home to ancient temples, French colonial architecture, vibrant street markets, and delicious cuisine. It’s a bustling city with many things to see and do, including exploring its unique sights and sounds, learning about its history and culture, and enjoying its vibrant nightlife.

Exploring the city’s bustling streets was an adventure in itself. The endless rows of motorbikes, street vendors, and locals’ daily lives created a vibrant atmosphere, unlike anything I had ever experienced. And, of course, the food was simply excellent. From savouring a bowl of steaming pho on the side of the street to enjoying a leisurely meal at a local restaurant, Hanoi’s culinary delights never ceased to amaze me.

But what I loved most about Hanoi was its ability to surprise me at every turn. Whether it was stumbling upon a hidden temple in the middle of the city or discovering a trendy rooftop bar with a stunning view, Hanoi always had something new and exciting to offer. For me, Hanoi was a city that challenged my perceptions and left me with memories that would last a lifetime.

How To Get There

By Air: You can fly directly into Noi Bai International Airport, which is located about 28 km from the city centre. Many airlines operate flights to Hanoi from major international cities, such as Tokyo, Seoul, Beijing, Bangkok, and Singapore.

By Train: If you travel from within Vietnam, you can take a train to Hanoi. The city has two main train stations, Hanoi Railway Station and Gia Lam Railway Station. Trains from Ho Chi Minh City, Hue, Da Nang, and other cities in Vietnam offer overnight services with sleeper cabins.

By Bus: Buses are a budget-friendly option for reaching Hanoi from neighbouring cities and countries. There are several bus companies that offer routes to Hanoi, including from China, Laos, and Cambodia.

By Car: You can rent a car and go to Hanoi if you prefer driving. However, remember that traffic in Hanoi can be chaotic and challenging for inexperienced drivers. It’s essential to have a valid international driving permit and understand local traffic rules before driving in Hanoi.

Places Of Interest

Ha Long Bay

Ha Long Bay

A breathtakingly beautiful bay located in northeastern Vietnam. It is famous for its emerald waters, towering limestone islands, and traditional floating villages. Book tickets here.

Hoan Kiem Lake

Hoan Kiem Lake

A scenic lake located in the heart of the city, surrounded by beautiful gardens and temples. It is also the site of the iconic red bridge leading to the Ngoc Son Temple. Book tickets here.

The Old Quarter

Hanoi Old Quarter

The historical and cultural centre of Hanoi with narrow streets, ancient temples, traditional architecture, and vibrant street markets. Book tickets here.

Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum

Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum

The final resting place of Vietnam’s beloved leader, Ho Chi Minh, is a grand and impressive structure. Book tickets here.

Temple of Literature

Temple of Literature

Vietnam’s first university and a temple dedicated to Confucius, with beautiful gardens and traditional architecture. Book tickets here.

Hanoi Opera House

Hanoi Opera House

A stunning French colonial building now a venue for performances of classical music, opera, and dance. Book tour here.

Museum of Ethnology

Museum of Ethnology

A fascinating museum that showcases the diverse cultures of Vietnam’s many ethnic groups. Book tickets here.

Water Puppet Theatre

Water Puppet Theatre

A traditional form of Vietnamese entertainment that dates back to the 11th century. It involves puppets performing in water and is a unique cultural experience. Book tour here.

Where To Stay

Luxury Hotels

Capella Hanoi

A luxurious hotel with stunning views of Hoan Kiem Lake, located near the Opera House and within walking distance of the famous Hanoi Old Quarter.

Mid-Range Hotels

Grand Mercure Hanoi

A mid-range hotel located near the Old Quarter, offering views of the city skyline. It’s also close to the famous Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum. 

Budget Hotels

Blue Hanoi Inn Hotel

A charming budget hotel located near Hoan Kiem Lake, offering views of the city skyline. It’s also close to the famous St. Joseph’s Cathedral.  

Where To Eat

Pho Thin: A famous eatery serving up the best pho (Vietnamese noodle soup) in the city. It is located in the historic Old Quarter.

Quan An Ngon: A bustling restaurant in the heart of Hanoi’s Old Quarter, serving up a wide variety of Vietnamese dishes, all served in a beautiful courtyard setting.

Hanoi Social Club: It is a trendy cafe and restaurant in the city’s Old Quarter, specializing in vegetarian and vegan options, including salads, smoothie bowls, and sandwiches.

Cafe Giang: A famous cafe in Hanoi’s Old Quarter, known for its delicious egg coffee, a unique Hanoi speciality made with whipped egg yolks, coffee, and condensed milk.

Final Thoughts

Hanoi is a vibrant city that truly captivates the heart of any traveller. Its rich history, unique culture, and delicious cuisine make it a must-visit destination in Vietnam. From wandering through the ancient streets of the Old Quarter to taking in the stunning beauty of Ha Long Bay, Hanoi offers endless opportunities for exploration and discovery. And with its friendly locals and affordable prices, it’s no wonder that Hanoi has become a favourite destination for travellers worldwide.

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Some links in this post are affiliate links, which means if you click on the link and purchase an item, I will receive a commission at no extra cost to you. All opinions are my own.

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