Hanoi

Old Quarter buzz, lakeside cafes & street-food corners

Browse Hanoi

Find hotels in Hanoi Book tours & experiences

Hanoi is one of the most rewarding places to explore, and this local guide brings together the best things to do, where to eat and where to stay in one place. Highlights include Hoan Kiem Lake, Hanoi Old Quarter and Temple of Literature. Food lovers should not miss Bun Cha Huong Lien and Pho Gia Truyen. Below you will find 10 hand-picked local recommendations across sights, restaurants, hotels and tours, which you can filter by category and budget to plan the perfect trip, whether you have a weekend or a week.

Hanoi at a glance

Ideal stay: 2 to 3 days
Best time to visit: spring and autumn
Highlights: Hoan Kiem Lake and Hanoi Old Quarter
Where to stay: Old Quarter and Dong Da
Local picks: 10 hand-chosen recommendations
Getting around: walkable, plus easy public transport

Local tips for Hanoi

Stories and neighbourhood know-how from our local guides.

Local tipsBest Things to Do in Hanoi: A Local’s GuideThe best things to do in Hanoi, chosen by locals: top sights, where to eat, where to stay and the…

Where to stay in Hanoi

Compare live hotel prices and availability on the map. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

Old Quarter

Bun Cha Huong Lien

The bun cha spot made famous by Obama and Bourdain.

★ 4.4

Old Quarter

Hanoi Old Quarter

A dizzying warren of trade streets, street food and motorbikes.

★ 4.5

Ba Dinh

Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum

The imposing granite mausoleum on Ba Dinh Square.

★ 4.4

Hoan Kiem

Hoa Lo Prison

The sobering colonial-era prison known as the Hanoi Hilton.

★ 4.5

Old Quarter

Hoan Kiem Lake

The tranquil lake at the heart of Hanoi, with its red bridge and temple.

★ 4.6

Old Quarter

Old Quarter Bar Crawl

A guided night out through hand-picked bars in Hanoi’s buzzing Old Quarter, with a shot or beer included at each stop before the group heads to a headline club. A fun, easy way to turn strangers into friends and see the nightlife with a local leading the way – the organisers note it’s LGBTQ- and POC-friendly.

★ 4.6

Old Quarter

Pho Gia Truyen

A queue-out-the-door institution for classic Hanoi pho.

★ 4.5

French Quarter

Sofitel Legend Metropole

A colonial grande dame that has hosted a century of luminaries.

★ 4.7

$$$

Dong Da

Temple of Literature

Vietnams first university, a serene series of courtyards and pavilions.

★ 4.6

Old Quarter

Train Street

The narrow lane where trains rumble inches from cafe tables.

★ 4.3

Before you go

Things we recommend sorting before any trip. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

Travel medical insuranceSafetyWing's Nomad Insurance works like a subscription: pay by the month, cover in most countries worldwide, and you can sign up even after your trip has started.Check prices on SafetyWing

Data the moment you landAn Airalo eSIM gets your phone online in 200+ destinations before you even leave the airport - no SIM swap, no surprise roaming bill. Use code UNLIMITED4YOU for 15% off your first Unlimited eSIM (through Sept 30, 2026).Get an eSIM on Airalo

Book your trip to Hanoi

Find the best hotels and book tours and experiences, all in one place.

Find hotels in Hanoi Book tours and experiences

Hanoi travel FAQ

How many days do you need in Hanoi?

Two to three days is enough to enjoy the highlights of Hanoi at a relaxed pace.

Where is the best area to stay in Hanoi?

Stay central and walkable to the main sights for a first visit.

What are the best things to do in Hanoi?

Browse the local picks above, from top sights and museums to where to eat and stay. Or read our best things to do in Hanoi guide.

What is the best time to visit Hanoi?

Spring and autumn usually bring the most comfortable weather and thinner crowds, though Hanoi is worth visiting year-round.