Where To Stay In Hanoi 2024: The 9 Best Areas & Hotels
Hanoi, Vietnam is a city that is rich in history and culture. There are many reasons why tourists should visit Hanoi, including the fact that it is one of the most beautiful and exotic destinations in Southeast Asia.
The city is home to stunning architecture, including ancient temples and pagodas, as well as bustling markets and lively nightlife. Hanoi is also an affordable destination, making it a great choice for budget-minded travelers.
It can be hard to plan where to stay in Hanoi for your perfect itinerary with so many great choices.
To help you narrow down an area and hopefully an accommodation, this is a list of the 9 best neighborhoods to stay in Hanoi based on what type of traveler you are.
Where to Stay in Hanoi: The 9 Best Neighborhoods
Whether you’re looking for the best place to stay in Hanoi for nightlife, or the best area to stay in Hanoi for families, I’ve got you covered.
Map of Where to Stay in Hanoi
1. Hoan Kiem (The Old Quarter) – First-Time Visitors
- Recommended for first-timers, nightlife, central location, budget-friendly
The Old Quarter is the best place to stay in Hanoi if you’re looking for a lively and vibrant atmosphere. This area is home to many of the city’s best restaurants, bars, and nightclubs, as well as a wide range of hotels to suit all budgets.
The Old Quarter is the downtown area of Hanoi so it is central to most of the touristy areas. Hoan Kiem is also an area with a lot of hustle, bustle, and noise.
If you’re looking for a place to stay in Hanoi that is central and lively, then the Old Quarter is the best area for you.
Where To Stay In Hoan Kiem
The Old Quarter has some of the best budget-friendly accommodations! Whether you’re looking for a luxury stay or a hostel, you’ll be able to find budget-friendly stays in Hoan Kiem.
- Luxury Option (Over $100): The Oriental Jade Hotel
The 5-star Oriental Jade Hotel is centrally located in the Old Quarter with a 3-minute walk to Hoan Kiem Lake and several restaurants.
The accommodations are beautiful, clean, and well-kept. The best part about the Oriental Jade Hotel is its rooftop bar and pool access, which you can take advantage of after a long day of sightseeing.
✅ >>CHECK BEST PRICES FOR THE ORIENTAL JADE HOTEL
- Mid Range($50-$100): Dal Vostro Hotel & Spa
Another centrally located hotel, The 4-star Dal Vostro Hotel & Spa is right where you want to be with short walks to Hoan Kiem Lake and St. Joseph’s Cathedral.
The Dal Vostro Hotel & Spa offers a pool and sauna, a terrace, and clean accommodations.
✅ >>CHECK BEST PRICES FOR THE DAL VOSTRO HOTEL & SPA
- Budget-Friendly (Under $50): Holiday Emerald Hotel
Holiday Emerald Hotel is one of the best options for a budget-friendly stay in the Old Quarter. With a 6-minute walk to the hustle and bustle of Hoan Kiem Lake, you can easily get around to all the sightseeing places.
Holiday Emerald Hotel boasts excellent staff service, recently renovated rooms, and cleanliness.
✅ >>CHECK BEST PRICES FOR THE HOLIDAY EMERALD HOTEL
Best Things To Do In Hoan Kiem
Since the Old Quarter is so central to all the places you’d want to visit, these are some of the coolest things to do in Hoan Kiem so you can make the most of your time in this vibrant area!
Here are some awesome things to do in Hoan Kiem:
1. Stroll around Hoan Kiem Lake: Hoan Kiem Lake is very popular at night. Lights are lit up, people are out and about since it isn’t hot out anymore, and it’s a great place to people-watch.
2. Visit the Temple of Literature: The Temple of Literature is a must-see when you’re in Hanoi. It is the first university in Vietnam and is absolutely stunning.
3. Take a cooking class: If you love food, then taking a cooking class while you’re in Hanoi is a great way to learn about Vietnamese cuisine and also get to eat what you make!
4. Go on a walking food tour: Sign up with a local to taste all the delicious food Vietnam has to offer. You’ll walk around different restaurants trying out their best recipes so you can always come back for more!
5. Shop at Dong Xuan Market: The Dong Xuan Market is the biggest market in Hanoi and has everything you could possibly need. From clothes to food to souvenirs, this is the place to go if you want to do some shopping.
6. Watch a water puppet show: A water puppet show is a traditional Vietnamese performance where puppets are controlled by people standing in waist-deep water. It’s a unique experience that you won’t find anywhere else!
7. Try egg yolk coffee: Vietnam is notorious for its egg yolk coffee. It is prepared by whisking an egg yolk with condensed milk and coffee. It’s a rich and delicious treat that you have to try!
Read Next: 15 Fun Things to Do in Hanoi at Night
2. Ba Dinh – Relaxed Vibe Close to Attractions
- Recommended for attractions, museums, and French colonial architecture
For those who want a more relaxed and cultural experience, Ba Dinh District is the perfect place to stay in Hanoi. This area is located north of the Old Quarter and is noted for its tree-lined streets, French colonial architecture, and many museums.
Ba Dinh is the best place to stay in Hanoi if you want to be close to all the main attractions but still have a more relaxed vibe.
Where To Stay In Ba Dinh
There are many great accommodation options in Ba Dinh district, from luxury hotels to more budget-friendly stays. No matter what your budget is, you’ll be able to find a place to stay in Ba Dinh that suits your needs.
- Luxury Option (Over $100): Lotte The Residence
The 5-star Lotte The Residence is a spacious hotel located in the entertainment center of Ba Dinh. Lotte the Residence is nearby a shopping center as well, making it easy to do your shopping!
The accommodations include a kitchenette, refrigerator, oven/stovetop, and microwave. In addition, there is a pool on-site and a restaurant, too.
✅ >>CHECK BEST PRICES FOR LOTTE THE RESIDENCE
- Mid Range($50-$100): Aira Boutique Hanoi Hotel & Spa
With beautiful views and a rooftop pool, the 4.5-star Aira Boutique Hanoi Hotel & Spa is a great option. The hotel is within a 15-minute walk to the touristy areas, however, you’ll still be able to enjoy the quieter areas like the Hanoi Botanical Garden.
The hotel is known for its friendly customer service, delicious breakfast options, and comfortable stay.
✅ >>CHECK BEST PRICES FOR THE AIRA BOUTIQUE HANOI HOTEL & SPA
- Budget-Friendly (Under $50): Bi Eco Suites Hanoi
Bi Eco Suites Hanoi is a minimalist-styled hotel in the city center of Hanoi. The room accommodations are comfortable and clean with a side kitchen for your personal use.
✅ >>CHECK BEST PRICES FOR THE BI ECO SUITES HANOI
Best Things To Do In Ba Dinh
This area is home to Ho Chi Minh’s Mausoleum, One Pillar Pagoda, and the Presidential Palace. It is also centrally located so you can easily walk to the Old Quarter or take a short taxi ride.
Here are some amazing things to do in Ba Dinh:
1. Visit Ho Chi Minh’s Mausoleum: This is a must-see for anyone visiting Hanoi. Ho Chi Minh’s Mausoleum is the final resting place of the late president and is open to the public from Tuesday to Sunday.
2. See the Presidential Palace: The Presidential Palace is the former home of the president of Vietnam. It is now a museum that you can visit to learn more about the country’s history.
3. View the One Pillar Pagoda: The One Pillar Pagoda is a unique Buddhist temple that was built in the 11th century. It is one of the most iconic landmarks in Hanoi.
4. Admire the Imperial Citadel of Thang Long: The Imperial Citadel of Thang Long is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that was built in the 10th century. It is a must-see for anyone interested in Vietnamese history.
5. Walk through the Museum of Artillery: The Museum of Artillery is located in the Imperial Citadel of Thang Long. It houses a collection of artillery pieces from different periods in Vietnamese history.
6. Stroll around Hanoi Botanical Garden: The Hanoi Botanical Garden is a large park that is perfect for a leisurely stroll. It is also home to a variety of plants and flowers.
7. Take a ride on the Hanoi Opera House: The Hanoi Opera House is a historic building that was built in the early 20th century. You can take a tour of the opera house or catch a performance.
8. Visit the Hoa Lo Prison Museum: The Hoa Lo Prison Museum is located in the former Hoa Lo Prison. It is a harrowing look at Vietnam’s history and the prison system.
3. Tay Ho – The Expat Community
- Recommended for nature lovers, experiencing the city like a local, trendy and upscale location
Located north the Hanoi’s city center is Tay Ho, an expat community that has sprung up around the picturesque West Lake. This is one of the best areas to stay in Hanoi for those who want to be close to nature and away from the hustle and bustle of the city.
Tay Ho used to be a sleepy fishing village but has now been taken over by westerners who have opened up a plethora of trendy cafes, restaurants, and bars. This is the perfect place to stay in Hanoi if you want to experience the city like a local.
Where To Stay In Tay Ho
Tay Ho is a quieter area in Hanoi where many of the city’s expats stay. If you’re looking for a trendy area to be in, Tay Ho may just be your neighborhood!
- Luxury Option (Over $100): Intercontinental Hanoi Westlake Hotel
Located on a lake, the 5-star Intercontinental Hanoi Westlake Hotel is a great luxury option to stay in Tay Ho. With easy access to Train Street and beautiful nature scenes, you’ll be sure to have some peace from the noise of the crowded city center.
The accommodations include a pool, options for city or lake views, comfortable bedding, and more!
✅ >>CHECK BEST PRICES FOR INTERCONTINENTAL HANOI WESTLAKE HOTEL
- Mid Range($50-$100): Oakwood Residence Hanoi
The 4.5-star Oakwood Residence Hanoi is a great aparthotel option in the center of Tay Ho. Located on the lake, you’ll have access to an indoor pool, comfortable rooms, and access to touristy areas such as the Hanoi Botanical Gardens and Thu Le Park.
✅ >>CHECK BEST PRICES FOR OAKWOOD RESIDENCE HANOI
- Budget-Friendly (Under $50): Parosand Hanoi Hotel & Apartment
Parosand Hanoi Hotel & Apartment is on the other side of the lake, and within a 6-minute walk to West Lake and easy access to the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum.
At Parosand, you’ll have access to a rooftop terrace with city or lake views, a kitchenette, and a comfortable stay.
✅ >>CHECK BEST PRICES FOR PAROSAND HANOI HOTEL & APARTMENT
Best Things To Do In Tay Ho
Tay Ho boasts some of the best views in Hanoi, thanks to its location on West Lake. There are also a number of great restaurants and bars in the area.
Here are some of the best things to do in Tay Ho:
1. Admire the sunset from Sky Bar: Sky Bar is one of the best places in Hanoi to watch the sunset. It is located on the top of a hotel and offers panoramic views of West Lake.
2. Have dinner at Cau Go Floating Restaurant: Cau Go Floating Restaurant is a unique dining experience that you can only have in Hanoi. The restaurant is located on a boat on West Lake and serves traditional Vietnamese food.
3. Visit the Tran Quoc Toan Temple: The Tran Quoc Toan Temple is a Buddhist temple that was built in the 16th century. It is one of the oldest temples in Hanoi and is located on an island in West Lake.
4. Smell the flowers at Quang An Flower Market: The Quang An Flower Market is the largest flower market in Hanoi. It is a great place to buy fresh flowers and learn about the different types of flowers that are grown in Vietnam.
5. Take a boat ride on West Lake: A boat ride on West Lake is a relaxing way to see some of Hanoi’s best sights. You can see the Temple of Literature, the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, and the Presidential Palace from the water.
4. Truc Bach – Best for Families
- Recommended for families, those wanting a quiet neighborhood with many parks for walking about
Truc Bach is a neighborhood nestled in the middle of Ba Dinh, Hoan Kiem, and Tay Ho. It’s one of the best areas to stay in Hanoi for families as it’s relatively quiet and has a number of parks nearby.
Although there aren’t many notable landmarks here, it’s a great place to stay if you want to be close to all the action but still have a quiet place to retreat to at the end of the day. You’ll also be in the middle of local Vietnamese cuisine!
Where To Stay In Truc Bach
If you’re looking to visit Hanoi with a family, Truc Bach is one of the best neighborhoods to select. There are many accessible parks and the area is quieter than the hustle and bustle of the Old Quarter.
- Luxury Option (Over $100): Pan Pacific Hanoi
Located on a lake, the 5-star Pan Pacific Hanoi Hotel is a great option for families. You’ll have access to an indoor pool, shopping areas, and many parks.
✅ >>CHECK BEST PRICES FOR PAN PACIFIC HANOI
- Mid Range($50-$100): The Q Hotel Hanoi
The Q Hotel Hanoi is conveniently located in a great shopping area. Each room comes with a workspace, concierge service, and more. You’ll also have access to the rooftop terrace that overlooks the city and lake.
✅ >>CHECK BEST PRICES FOR THE Q HOTEL HANOI
Best Things To Do In Truc Bach
It’s easy to get to some of the touristy sites from Truc Bach, but here are a few things you can do right in Truc Bach.
Here are some cool things to do in Truc Bach:
1. Visit Hoa Lo Prison Museum: The Hoa Lo Prison was used by the French colonial government to house political prisoners. It was later used by the Vietnamese government to house American prisoners of war. The prison has now been turned into a museum that tells the story of the prisoners who were held there.
2. Have a picnic in Lenin Park: Lenin Park is a large park in the center of Hanoi. It is a great place to relax and have a picnic. The park also has a swimming pool, tennis courts, and a playground.
3. Ride a boat at Truc Bach Lake: Truc Bach Lake is a man-made lake that was created in the 1930s. You can ride a boat around the lake or go for a swim.
4. Try street food at Chau Long Night Market: The Chau Long Night Market is a night market that sells a variety of street food. It is a great place to try Vietnamese food.
5. Eat local delicacies like Pho Cuon and frog hotpot: Truc Bach is a great place to try local delicacies like pho cuon (rice noodle rolls) and frog hotpot.
5. Cau Giay – Best for Off The Beaten Path
- Recommended for local life, farther stay from the city center, off the beaten path
Cau Giay is a neighborhood that is located west of the city center. It is a great place to stay if you want to be off the beaten path. This area is where most of the students are located and it’s more modern.
Cau Giay is also home to a number of parks and lakes, making it a great place to relax after a long day of sightseeing, however, it is further out from the center of touristy things to do so keep this in mind when looking at stays here!
Where To Stay In Cau Giay
Cau Giay is situated farther from the touristy sites in Hanoi. When staying here, you’ll be able to see a true representation of how locals live. Because of that, you may be able to find even more affordable stays.
- Luxury Option (Over $100): Novotel Suites Hotel
Novotel Suites Hotel is a great 5-star option in the heart of Cau Giay. It’s located in a walkable area, with easy access to the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology and the University of Commerce.
The rooms provide ample accommodations including hypo-allergenic bedding, kitchenettes, and an outdoor pool.
✅ >>CHECK BEST PRICES FOR NOVOTEL SUITES HOTEL
- Mid Range($50-$100): Eastin Hotel & Residences Hanoi
The 4-star Eastin Hotel is amazing for relaxing with a poolside bar and terrace. The rooms have 24-hour service with working spaces and kitchenettes.
The hotel is also in a walkable area to the Indochina Plaza and the Museum of Fine Arts.
✅ >>CHECK BEST PRICES FOR EASTIN HOTEL & RESIDENCES HANOI
- Budget-Friendly (Under $50): The Bloom Hanoi
The Bloom Hanoi is an aparthotel located in the shopping center of Cau Giay. The surrounding area is walkable, but The Bloom is farther from the touristy sites.
You can select to stay in a studio or suite, with access to the onsite cafe and 24-hour fitness center.
✅ >>CHECK BEST PRICES FOR THE BLOOM HANOI
Best Things To Do In Cau Giay
Though it’s further out from the rest of the popular tourist sites, you can still find fun things to do in Cau Giay.
Here are some amazing things to do in Cau Giay:
1. Visit the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology: The Vietnam Museum of Ethnology is a museum that focuses on the 54 different ethnic groups that live in Vietnam. The museum has a large collection of artifacts and also has a library and research center.
2. Eat at 37th Street: 37th Street is a street in Cau Giay that is lined with restaurants and cafes. It is a great place to eat lunch or dinner.
3. Walk the Hanoi Museum: The Hanoi Museum is a museum that focuses on the history of Hanoi. The museum has a large collection of artifacts and also has a library and research center.
4. Visit the Heritage Museum: The Heritage Museum is a museum that focuses on the history and culture of Vietnam. The museum has a large collection of artifacts and also has a library and research center.
6. Hai Ba Trung – Best for Couples
- Recommended for couples, European-style architecture, high-end shopping
Hai Ba Trung is a neighborhood that is located west of the city center and is known as one of the coolest places to stay in Hanoi. Filled with extravagant shopping centers, upscale restaurants, and French architecture, Hai Ba Trung is a good fit for couples visiting Hanoi.
If you’re looking for a more romantic setting, then Hai Ba Trung is the place for you. With its European-style architecture and independent shops, Hai Ba Trung will make you feel like you’re in a different world.
Where To Stay In Hai Ba Trung
The French Colonial backdrop provides a romantic atmosphere for couples looking to stay in Hanoi, specifically Hai Ba Trung. It’s also the shopping epicenter of Hanoi with excellent options for restaurants and bars.
- Luxury Option (Over $100): Hotel Du Parc Hanoi
Hotel Du Parc Hanoi is a luxury hotel in Hai Ba Trung connected to a shopping center. The hotel is also a short distance to Old Quarter for even more touristy sites to visit.
Guests can take advantage of Voyage, the on-site restaurant, as well as an outdoor pool, and sauna. The rooms are comfortable with working spaces and beautiful views upon request.
✅ >>CHECK BEST PRICES FOR HOTEL DU PARC HANOI
- Mid Range($50-$100): Nesta Hotel Hanoi
The Nesta Hotel is connected to a subway station and is located in the heart of Hai Ba Trung. It’s also very easy to get to any tourist area you’d like to visit.
There is a restaurant on-site with other amenities such as spa services and a gift shop. The rooms have 24-hour service with comfortable beds and deep-soaking bathtubs.
✅ >>CHECK BEST PRICES FOR NESTA HOTEL HANOI
- Budget-Friendly (Under $50): Parkside Sunline Hotel
Parkside Sunline Hotel is also located in the heart of Hai Ba Trung, and connected to a shopping center. Guests will also be within walking distance of Vincom Tower and Lotte Center Hanoi.
Visitors will have access to the 24-hour fitness center, receive friendly service, and stay in a comfortable room with working spaces.
✅ >>CHECK BEST PRICES FOR PARKSIDE SUNLINE HOTEL
Best Things To Do In Hai Ba Trung
Known more as a local shopping district rather than a touristy area, Hai Ba Trung is the perfect place for every shopaholic’s heart.
Here is a list of things to do in Hai Ba Trung:
1. Shop at Times City: Times City is a large shopping mall that has a variety of high-end shops with brands from all over the world.
2. Dance all night at The Bank Hanoi: The Bank Hanoi is a nightclub that plays a mix of electronic and hip-hop music. It is a great place to dance all night long.
3. Visit the Hai Ba Trung Temple: The Hai Ba Trung Temple is a temple that was built in honor of the two sisters who led an uprising against the Chinese.
4. Eat fresh meals at Bun Cha Huong Lien: Bun Cha Huong Lien is a restaurant that specializes in Bun Cha, a type of Vietnamese noodle soup.
5. See the Women’s Museum: The Women’s Museum is a museum that focuses on the history of women in Vietnam. The museum has a large collection of artifacts and also has a library and research center.
7. Long Bien – Best for Seasoned Travelers
- Recommended for quiet residential locations, seasoned travelers
Long Bien is an urban city center located east of the Old Quarter and is more residential than touristy. It is a great place to stay if you want to be close to the action but still have a more relaxed atmosphere.
Long Bien is a bustling city center with a mix of modern and traditional architecture. You can find high-rise buildings next to temples and pagodas. Long Bien is also home to a large number of embassies, so it is a very safe area to stay in.
Where To Stay In Long Bien
Long Bien is the only urban area located across the Long Bien bridge. It is off the beaten path and is recommended if this isn’t your first time in Hanoi.
- Mid Range($50-$100): Hotel du Monde
Hotel du Monde is located in Long Bien and is about a 10-minute drive from the city center. The accommodations offer a terrace, hypo-allergenic bedding, and friendly staff.
✅ >>CHECK BEST PRICES FOR HOTEL DU MONDE
- Budget-Friendly (Under $50): Phuong Trang Hotel Hanoi
Phuong Trang Hotel is located in Long Bien and is a very budget-friendly hotel. The rooms are comfortable with a memory foam bed. The hotel is also within a 10-15 minute drive from the city center.
✅ >>CHECK BEST PRICES FOR PHUONG TRANG HOTEL HANOI
Best Things To Do In Long Bien
Although it’s on the other side of the river, there are still some very cool sites to visit in Long Bien.
Here are a few awesome things to do in Long Bien:
1. Visit the Long Bien Bridge: The Long Bien Bridge is a bridge that spans the Red River and was built by the French. It is a great place to walk or ride a bike.
2. Create something at Bat Trang Ceramic Village: Bat Trang Ceramic Village is a village that specializes in ceramics. You can take a class and make your own pottery or buy some of the beautiful pieces that are made here.
3. Walk the gardens of Den Quen Tran Vu: Den Quen Tran Vu is a garden with monuments and statues received from all over the world!
8. Thanh Xuan – Best for Young, Vibrant Atmosphere
- Recommended for budget entertainment, cheap eats, vibrant community
Located west of Hai Ba Trung is Thanh Xuan, an urban area with a mix of residential and commercial buildings. Thanh Xuan is a great place to stay if you want to be close to the action but still have a more relaxed atmosphere.
Thanh Xuan is home to a number of universities, so it has a young and vibrant feel to it. You can find many restaurants and cafes in Thanh Xuan, as well as some great nightlife.
Where To Stay In Thanh Xuan
If you’re looking for a vibrant and young vibe, Thanh Xuan is the best place for you! It’s located just west of Hai Ba Trung, which is still near the city center of Hanoi.
- Mid Range($50-$100): Grand Dragon Hotel Hanoi
The 3.5-star Grand Dragon Hotel is located in the heart of Thanh Xuan and provides comfortable rooms with working spaces. The Temple of Literature and Trinh Cong Son Walking Street are also nearby sites to visit.
✅ >>CHECK BEST PRICES FOR GRAND DRAGON HOTEL HANOI
- Budget-Friendly (Under $50): Hanoi Amore Hotel & Travel
Hanoi Amore Hotel & Travel is also located in the heart of Thanh Xuan. The rooms are comfortable with in-room minibars. Tourist sites are also accessible by foot including Lenin Park, Vincom Shopping Center, and Train Street.
✅ >>CHECK BEST PRICES FOR HANOI AMORE HOTEL & TRAVEL
Best Things To Do In Thanh Xuan
Thanh Xuan is a great place for budget travelers and has many options for food and entertainment.
Here are some fun things to do in Thanh Xuan:
1. Visit the Vincom Mega Mall Royal City: The Vincom Mega Mall Royal City is a large shopping mall with a movie theater, an ice skating rink, and a bowling alley.
2. Eat street food at Thanh Xuan Market: Thanh Xuan Market is a great place to eat street food. You can find all kinds of Vietnamese food here, from pho to banh mi.
9. Dong Da – Best for a Larger Budget
- Recommended for a larger budget, fun local neighborhood
Dong Da is an urban residential district located east of Hoan Kiem lake so you’ll find more local Vietnamese people living here rather than tourists. Dong Da tends to run on the expensive side, so it may not be the best choice if you’re on a tight budget.
Dong Da is near the Ba Dinh district so you can easily get to many of the cultural sites by walking or biking.
Where To Stay In Dong Da
With a larger budget, you can stay in Dong Da and experience a fun local neighborhood with Thai and Vietnamese cuisines. You’ll be close to the cultural touristy sites as well.
- Luxury Option (Over $100): Novotel Hanoi Thai Ha
Novotel Hanoi Thai Ha is located in the heart of Dong Da. The accommodations provide a poolside bar, rooftop terrace, and comfortable hypoallergenic bedding.
You’ll be within close proximity to the Temple of Literature, Flag Tower, and the Hanoi Botanical Garden.
✅ >>CHECK BEST PRICES FOR NOVOTEL HANOI THAI HA
- Mid Range($50-$100): Hanoi Larosa Hotel
Hanoi Larosa Hotel is connected to a shopping center in Dong Da. While here, you can visit Hang Da Market and Hang Ma Street including other touristy areas in the city center.
The hotel offers a spa, cafe, and on-site restaurant, and the rooms are comfortable with working spaces as well.
✅ >>CHECK BEST PRICES FOR HANOI LAROSA HOTEL
Best Things To Do In Dong Da
Dong Da offers a more local experience and is a great place to try authentic Vietnamese food.
Here are some of the best things to do in Dong Da:
1. See a show at the Hanoi Opera House: The Hanoi Opera House is a beautiful building that was built in the early 20th century. You can take a tour of the opera house or see a performance here.
2. Visit Joseph’s Cathedral: Joseph’s Cathedral is a Roman Catholic cathedral that was built in 1886. The architecture is beautiful and it’s a great place to take photos.
3. Visit Train Street: Train street is one of the most popular and narrow streets in Hanoi. When the train is coming, everyone on the tracks is quickly moving to get out of the way. Check out Shipped Away’s post about the famous Train Street.
Visiting Hanoi, Vietnam: FAQs
People often have questions about what to do and where to stay in Hanoi. Here are some of the most Frequently Asked Questions:
What are the best areas to stay in Hanoi?
There is no definitive answer to this question as different people will have different preferences. However, some areas that are popular with tourists include the Old Quarter, Hai Ba Trung, and Thanh Xuan.
What are the best things to do in Hanoi?
Again, this is a difficult question to answer as there is so much to do and see in Hanoi. Some popular activities include visiting the temples and pagodas, exploring the city’s many markets, and going on walks or bike rides along the Red River.
Is it safe to travel to Hanoi?
Yes, Hanoi is a safe city to travel in. However, as with any city, it is always important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions against pickpockets and other petty crimes.
What is the best time of year to visit Hanoi?
The best time to visit Hanoi is from October to April when the weather is cooler and drier.
How many days in Hanoi is enough?
How many days you spend in Hanoi will depend on your individual travel style and interests. However, we recommend spending at least 3-4 days in the city to have enough time to see the major sights and do some exploring.
What is the best way to get around Hanoi?
The best way to get around Hanoi is by walking or biking, especially as the streets of Hanoi are narrow and crowded. You’ll also be able to experience the city and local culture close up. If you are going to be traveling outside of the city, then taking a bus or taxi is the best option.
Do I need a visa to travel to Hanoi?
Yes, all foreigners need a visa to enter Vietnam. You can apply for a visa online or at your nearest Vietnamese embassy or consulate.
>> Apply for your Vietnamese visa! <<
What are the areas to avoid in Hanoi?
The areas to avoid in Hanoi include Hoan Kiem Lake at night, the Old Quarter after dark, and any area that is off the beaten path.
How far is Hanoi airport from the city center?
The Hanoi airport is about 28 kilometers from the city center and takes about 40 minutes to reach by taxi or car.
Is Hanoi a good place to travel with kids?
Yes, Hanoi is a great place to travel with kids. There are many family-friendly activities and attractions, such as the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, the Temple of Literature, and the Hoan Kiem Lake.
What are some of the best places to eat in Hanoi?
Some of the best places to eat in Hanoi include the Old Quarter, Dong Xuan Market, and Cha Ca La Vong.
Final Thoughts on Where To Stay In Hanoi
There are many great areas to stay in Hanoi depending on your individual preferences. Some popular tourist areas include the Old Quarter, Hai Ba Trung, and Thanh Xuan.
My hope is that this post will help you make a decision in choosing the best area to stay while traveling in Hanoi.
There are also many great activities and attractions to enjoy in Hanoi. Some of our favorites include visiting temples and pagodas, exploring the city’s markets, going for walks or bike rides along the Red River, and trying local cuisine at some of the best restaurants in town.
More Hanoi Content:
- 7 Days in Hanoi: Spend an Adventurous Week in Northern Vietnam
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- Is there Uber in Hanoi, Vietnam? (Transportation Guide)
- 29 Best Things to Do in Hanoi Old Quarter
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- The Best Travel Credit Card to Use Abroad
- How to Use Skyscanner to Find Cheap Flights
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My Favorite Travel Tips + Resources
Here is a quick glance at all my go-to travel tips and resources that I use to plan every trip! For more information, check out my travel resources page.
- Booking flights: I use Google Flights to check all routes and find the best flights. Then I compare Skyscanner (for the lowest prices) before I book.
- Accommodations: I love budget-friendly rentals or booking at a hotel where I can earn points.
- For hotels, I go through Booking.com or book directly with Marriott (for points + rewards).
- When I travel internationally, I’ll book through Hostelworld for very budget-friendly stays.
- For vacation rentals, use Vrbo or Marriott Homes & Villas.
- Expedia also has some great bundles for hotels, flights, and car rentals altogether.
- Transportation: Transportation covers car rentals, trains, and buses. Here are a few of my favorites:
- Car Rentals: I love renting cars through Discover Cars. They have been consistent and provide the best customer service.
- Trains in Asia: Trip.com has the best options!
- Trains in Europe: Trainline or Omio.
- Visa Application: For a hassle-free process, apply for your visa from iVisa.
- Travel Credit Card: I book all my travel (flights, hotels, car rentals) through Chase Sapphire.
- Vaccines and Medications: Check the CDC website for updates on necessary vaccines to enter a country, including updates on Covid-19 and recommended places to visit. I recommend getting all the vaccines you need before you go!
- Tours + Experiences: I absolutely love my tours! Everything from eerie walking ghost tours to food tours, I’ll usually book something every trip either through Viator or GetYourGuide.
- Entertainment: Looking for entertainment like sporting events, theater shows, or concerts? Book with Ticket Squeeze!
- Tech: Keep your internet browsing safe, secure, and fast with ExpressVPN
- Language Learning: The best place to learn a new language is through Babbel as you travel to countries you don’t know the language.
- What to Pack: I almost always travel by backpack. For products I like, check out my packing guide page for all the things I take with me on different trips.