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.
- Recommended stay
- 3-4 nights
- Best time
- Sep-Nov, Mar-Apr
- Getting around
- Bus, bike, walk
- Book ahead
- Ho Chi Minh's Mausoleum
- Best areas
- Old Quarter, Tay Ho
- Rain backup
- Vietnam Museum of Ethnology
Start Here
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.
Search flights →Museum & attraction tickets
Skip-the-line entry — museums, landmarks, and day passes for this city.
Browse tickets →Tours & experiences
Walking tours, food tours, and activities on Klook.
Browse tours →Travel eSIM
Install an Airalo eSIM before you land — maps, tickets, and messaging without roaming fees.
Get eSIM →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 and stay areas, then open place pages from the markers.
Where To Stay
Best areas to stay in Hanoi
Compare neighborhoods by budget, walkability, and tradeoffs — then open a place page when available.
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).








