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Hanoi travel guide

Vietnam

Hanoi Travel Guide

Plan the right version of Hanoi: top sights, best areas to stay, practical tips, and mood-based guides for every trip style.

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Choose the best way to explore Hanoi

Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam, is a vibrant city known for its centuries-old architecture and rich culture. With a mix of French colonial buildings, ancient temples, and bustling markets, it's a destination that offers something for every traveler.

Interesting facts about Hanoi

  • Hanoi is home to the world's longest-lasting water puppet theater, a unique art form that dates back to the 11th century.
  • The city has over 600 temples and pagodas, showcasing its deep-rooted spiritual heritage and architectural diversity.
  • Hanoi's Old Quarter features a street dedicated to each trade, with 36 streets reflecting the city's historical guild system.

Pick your Hanoi trip mood

Start with how you travel — each guide has routes, places, and planning tips for that style.

Book your trip

Flights, tickets, tours & eSIM for Hanoi

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Find flights

Search Aviasales for flights to Hanoi — compare routes and prices.

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Museum & attraction tickets

Skip-the-line entry — museums, landmarks, and day passes for this city.

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Tours & experiences

Walking tours, food tours, and activities on Klook.

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Travel eSIM

Install an Airalo eSIM before you land — maps, tickets, and messaging without roaming fees.

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Travel Moods

Best Hanoi guides by trip type

Each guide is tailored to a specific travel style, so you can plan around your real constraints instead of reading one generic itinerary.

Top Things To Do

Start with these Hanoi experiences

Open each card for a full attraction guide with tickets, age tips, maps, visit plans, and FAQs.

Map

Hanoi at a glance

Pin key sights, stay areas, and hotels — then open details from the markers.

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Where To Stay

Best areas to stay in Hanoi

Compare neighborhoods by budget, walkability, and tradeoffs — then open a place page when available.

Hotels

Hotels in Hanoi

Stays curated across TripByMood guides for Hanoi — compare ratings and book when you are ready.

  • An Nguyen Lakeside Residence

    Aparthotels

    An Nguyen Lakeside Residence

    4.9(438 reviews)

    A family-friendly stay in Hanoi — look for family rooms or connecting options and book early in peak season.

    Booking →
  • Meritel Hanoi

    Luxury Hotels

    Meritel Hanoi

    4.9(2,361 reviews)

    A romantic stay at Meritel Hanoi — near 151-153 P. Hàng Bông — 4.9★ from 2361 reviews — book early for weekends.

    Booking →
  • VNAHOMES Serviced Apartment

    Aparthotels

    VNAHOMES Serviced Apartment

    4.9(879 reviews)

    A family-friendly stay in Hanoi — look for family rooms or connecting options and book early in peak season.

    Booking →
  • Hanoian Central Hotel & Spa

    Luxury Hotels

    Hanoian Central Hotel & Spa

    4.8(3,093 reviews)

    A romantic stay at Hanoian Central Hotel & Spa — near 42 Hàng Cót — 4.8★ from 3093 reviews — book early for weekends.

    Booking →

Trip Length

Hanoi by duration

Match your plan to the time you actually have. Short trips need compact routes; longer stays can add neighborhoods and weather-proof backups.

  • 1 day

    Quick Hanoi Experience

    Explore the highlights of Hanoi in a single day, including the Old Quarter and Ho Chi Minh's Mausoleum.

    Open Hanoi culture guide
  • 2 days

    Hanoi Cultural Dive

    Spend two days immersing yourself in Hanoi's rich history and vibrant culture, visiting museums and local markets.

    Open Hanoi culture guide
  • 3-4 days

    Extended Hanoi Adventure

    Enjoy a longer stay to explore Hanoi's attractions, nearby villages, and indulge in culinary experiences.

    Open Hanoi culture guide

Seasonal Planning

Weather, budget, and evening ideas for Hanoi

Keep one flexible plan ready so the city still works when weather, crowds, or budget change.

FAQ

Hanoi travel questions

Quick answers for the planning decisions most travelers need to make before opening a full guide.

What is the best way to get around Hanoi?+

Biking and walking are popular, but buses and ride-hailing apps are also convenient.

Is it safe to drink tap water in Hanoi?+

It's advisable to drink bottled water to avoid potential health issues.

What should I wear when visiting temples?+

Dress modestly; shoulders and knees should be covered.

Are there any local customs I should be aware of?+

Be respectful when visiting temples and remove shoes when entering homes.

What currency is used in Hanoi?+

The official currency is the Vietnamese Dong (VND).