The capital of Vietnam, Hanoi, is a charming city where tradition and modern life coexist in a surprisingly harmonious way. With over a thousand years of history, this former imperial capital offers a unique blend of ancient culture and contemporary energy. Hanoi is famous for its serene lakes, historic temples, French colonial architecture, and vibrant street food culture. The calm atmosphere around Hoan Kiem Lake, the bustling markets of the Old Quarter, and the solemn Ba Dinh Square together create a wide range of experiences for travelers.
Hanoi is not just about ticking off major tourist spots; it is a city where you can truly immerse yourself in Vietnam’s culture and history. The endless flow of motorbikes and busy markets may feel chaotic at first, but soon you will start to see the city’s own rhythm and hidden order. At simple street stalls, you can enjoy a hot bowl of pho and an authentic taste of local life, while walks between colonial-era buildings reveal traces of Hanoi’s past tucked into every corner.
Hanoi Weather by Season, What to Wear & Best Time to Visit
Located in northern Vietnam, Hanoi has a milder tropical climate than the typical southern tropical weather. The city’s weather is influenced year-round by changing tropical monsoon winds. The warm, humid southwesterly monsoon raises temperatures and brings heavy rains, while the cooler northeasterly monsoon makes Hanoi drier and cooler.
Rainy Season (June–October)
From June to October, the southwesterly monsoon brings warm sea air and a lot of rain to Hanoi. High humidity and heat mean you will sweat heavily after just a few hours outside. Average temperatures are around 25–35°C, but because of the very high humidity, it often feels even hotter than the actual temperature.
July and August are the peak months for typhoons and intense rainfall, and localized flooding can occur around the city.
What to wear & pack
- Light short‑sleeve T‑shirts and shorts
- Breathable fabrics such as linen and cotton
- A lightweight waterproof jacket or rain poncho
- Compact umbrella
- Mosquito repellent is highly recommended, as dengue fever cases increase during the rainy season.
Cool Dry Season (November–February)
Hanoi’s main travel high season is the dry months from November to February. Average temperatures are about 10–20°C, but the lack of heating in many buildings combined with humidity can make it feel colder than the numbers suggest. In the coldest month, January, the average minimum can drop to around 16°C.
January and February are also the time of the Tet (Lunar New Year) holiday, when the entire city is filled with a traditional festive atmosphere.
In winter, foggy mornings are common and air quality can worsen due to smog. When the smog is heavy, it is better to limit outdoor activity and wear a mask.
What to wear & pack
- Warm sweaters and cardigans
- A light coat or jacket
- Scarf, hat and other accessories to help retain body heat
Hot Dry Season (March–May)
From March to May, temperatures steadily rise, with daily averages around 20–30°C. It can be hot enough that you find yourself wishing for a refreshing shower of rain. Late April to early May includes major public holidays such as Reunification Day and Labor Day, so domestic travel peaks and popular spots can be crowded with Vietnamese travelers.
What to wear & pack
- Light long‑sleeve shirts and long pants
- Short‑sleeve T‑shirts for daytime
- A thin outer layer for cooler mornings and evenings
- Hat, sunglasses and sunscreen for strong midday sun
Best Time to Visit Hanoi
The best times to visit Hanoi in terms of comfortable weather are:
- Late September to November
- March to April
During these periods, temperatures are moderate and there is relatively little rain, which makes it ideal for walking, sightseeing, and outdoor activities.
Before You Go: Practical Essentials
Visa
Vietnam allows passport holders from various countries to enter without a visa. However, the permitted length of stay and specific conditions differ by nationality, so it is important to check both your country and your planned duration of stay in advance. You can verify the latest list of visa‑exempt countries online.
Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months from the date of entry. Airlines or immigration officers may ask to see proof of onward or return flights, so it is advisable to have your return e‑ticket ready.
If you plan to stay longer than the permitted length of stay, you must apply for an e‑visa.
- Online application (official government website)
SIM Cards & eSIM for Vietnam
At Hanoi Airport
At the arrival hall of Noi Bai International Airport (HAN), you will find many mobile carrier counters where you can easily purchase a local SIM card. Show your passport, choose a data/voice package, and staff will help you insert and activate the SIM.
In the city
You can also buy SIM cards at official carrier shops and convenience stores around Hanoi.
Online purchase & eSIM
You can pre‑order a SIM online and simply pick it up and activate it at Hanoi Airport:
If your smartphone supports eSIM, this is the most convenient option because you do not have to change physical SIM cards:
Hanoi Airport Guide & Transport to the City
Noi Bai International Airport (HAN) is located about 35 km north of central Hanoi, roughly 45–60 minutes by car from Hoan Kiem Lake. It serves numerous direct flights from Korea and other major Asian cities, as well as many domestic routes.
The airport has:
- T1 – Domestic terminal
- T2 – International terminal
A free shuttle bus connects T1 and T2:
- Boarding: In front of pillar no. 11 at the international terminal
- Operating hours: 05:00–01:00
- Frequency: Every 15–20 minutes
Airport Bus 86
Bus 86 departs from Noi Bai Airport and stops at Hoan Kiem Lake, the Old Quarter and then continues to Hanoi Railway Station. You can also take this bus from the city back to the airport.
- Operating hours (from airport): 05:00–22:00
- Frequency: Every 30–45 minutes
- Travel time: About 50–70 minutes depending on traffic
- Fare: 45,000 VND one way
- How to pay: Board the bus and pay the conductor in cash
This is one of the most convenient and budget‑friendly options for solo travelers heading to the Old Quarter.
City Buses (07 & 17)
- Bus 07
- Route: Airport ↔ Kim Ma Bus Station in western Hanoi
- Bus 17
- Route: Airport ↔ Long Bien Bus Station, just northeast of the Old Quarter
- Travel time from airport to city: Around 1.5 hours
- Fare: 12,000 VND
These buses are extremely cheap but require some comfort with local public transport and possibly a short walk or taxi from the bus terminal to your hotel.
Taxi
A taxi is the most convenient way to travel from Noi Bai Airport to the city, especially if you are two or more people or have large luggage. Taxi fares in Vietnam are relatively cheap.
- Typical airport–city fare: Around 350,000 VND to central Hanoi
- Always board at the official taxi stand
- Avoid individuals approaching you with taxi offers in the arrivals hall; these are often overpriced or scams.
Recommended taxi companies:
- Mai Linh Taxi
- Taxi Group
- Vinasun
Grab (Ride‑Hailing)
Using the ride‑hailing app Grab is often cheaper and more convenient than taking a regular taxi.
- Typical fare airport–city: About 330,000–420,000 VND
- Download the Grab app (https://www.grab.com/vn/download/) and register your credit card for easy cashless payment.
- A helpful trick: Take a photo of the nearest pillar number outside the terminal and send it to the driver via the app so they can find you easily.
Private Airport Pick‑up / Drop‑off Service
If you have a lot of luggage or are traveling in a larger group, a private airport transfer is very comfortable. A driver will meet you with a name sign and take you directly to your hotel.
- Typical starting fare: From around 320,000 VND
Hanoi–Sapa Sleeper Bus from the Airport
From Hanoi Airport there are sleeper buses to Sapa, which is very convenient if you plan to go directly to the mountains.
- Online booking
- Fare: 450,800 VND (approx., depends on date and provider)
Arriving & Departing Hanoi by Train
Hanoi Railway Station is the starting point of Vietnam’s north–south line, connecting to Saigon (Ho Chi Minh City). Trains run roughly ten times a day and the journey to Ho Chi Minh City takes around 31–38 hours. There are also trains to Lao Cai, the gateway town for Sapa.
You can buy tickets:
- Directly at the train station
- Via local travel agencies
- Or conveniently online through platforms like Baolau:
Example routes and approximate fares:
- Hanoi → Ho Chi Minh City (about 32h 10m): from 1,050,000 VND
- Hanoi → Da Nang (about 14h 54m): from 484,000 VND
- Hanoi → Nha Trang (about 24h): from 456,000 VND
- Hanoi → Lao Cai (Sapa) (about 7h 45m): from 420,000 VND
Arriving & Departing Hanoi by Bus
You can buy bus tickets:
- At the bus terminals
- Through travel agencies (with a small service fee)
- online
Major Bus Terminals in Hanoi
My Dinh Bus Terminal (Bến xe Mỹ Đình)
Located in western Hanoi. Buses to Sapa, Ninh Binh, Ha Giang and many other northern destinations depart from here.
Gia Lam Bus Terminal (Bến xe Gia Lâm)
Located in eastern Hanoi. Main departures to Halong Bay and Hai Phong.
Giap Bat Bus Terminal (Bến xe Giáp Bát)
Located in southern Hanoi. Buses to Ninh Binh and Thanh Hoa depart from here.
Nuoc Ngam Bus Terminal (Bến xe Nước Ngầm)
Located in southeast Hanoi. Buses to Da Nang, Hue and many central and southern cities depart from this terminal.
Typical Travel Times & Fares to Nearby Cities
| Destination | Travel Time | Regular Bus Fare | VIP Bus Fare |
| Sapa | About 5–6 hours | 250,000–350,000 VND | 400,000–500,000 VND |
| Halong Bay | About 3–5 hours | 100,000–200,000 VND | 250,000–350,000 VND |
| Ninh Binh | About 1.5–2 hrs | 100,000–150,000 VND | 200,000–300,000 VND |
| Hai Phong | About 1.5–2 hrs | 100,000–200,000 VND | (varies by operator) |
Getting Around Hanoi
The Old Quarter and Hoan Kiem Lake area are very walkable and ideal for exploring on foot. Around Hoan Kiem Lake, roads are turned into pedestrian‑only streets on weekends, making it a pleasant car‑free zone.
City Buses
Hanoi has more than 50 bus routes. Figuring out the network can be challenging, but once you are on board, buses are comfortable and extremely affordable. You can check routes and timetables on Google Maps.
- Tickets are purchased in cash from the conductor after boarding.
- Standard bus fare: 8,000–12,000 VND
- BRT (Bus Rapid Transit) on a dedicated lane between Kim Ma and Yen Nghia costs 15,000 VND.
Useful bus routes
- 8: Long Bien Bus Station ↔ “backpacker street” area
- 9: North of Hoan Kiem Lake ↔ Military Museum, Ho Chi Minh Museum
- 14: North of Hoan Kiem Lake ↔ around Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum
- 17: Airport ↔ Long Bien Bus Station
- 34: Long Bien Bus Station ↔ My Dinh Bus Station
- 47: Long Bien Bus Station ↔ Bat Trang Pottery Village
Metro
In 2021, Hanoi opened its first metro line.
- Line 2A connects Cat Linh (west of the Old Quarter) and Yen Nghia (southwest suburbs) with 12 stations. It is not yet very useful for most tourists, but the Line 3 connecting Hanoi Railway Station to the city center is planned to open around 2027.
Metro fares:
- Single ride: 8,000–15,000 VND
- 1‑day pass: 30,000 VND
Taxis
For most visitors, taxi is one of the most frequently used transport options in Hanoi. Even though taxis have meters, some may be tampered with, so for shorter distances it is often better to agree on a price beforehand, or simply use Grab.
Recommended taxi companies:
- Taxi Mai Linh
- Taxi Group / G7 Taxi – slightly higher starting fare but safe and reliable
- Taxi Thanh Nga – relatively cheap and safe
- Taxi Nội Bài – specializes in airport transfers with good deals for pre‑booked rides
Typical fare example:
- 3 km within the city: 54,000–80,000 VND
Grab Taxi & Other Ride‑Hailing Apps
Using Grab (or similar apps) is usually cheaper and more transparent than regular taxis.
- Register your credit card for convenient automatic payment.
Typical GrabCar fare structure:
- Base fare: 25,000 VND
- Per‑kilometer: 8,500 VND
- Per‑minute: 400 VND
Approximate distance fares:
- 5 km: around 50,000 VND
- 10 km: around 125,000 VND
Other ride‑hailing apps available:
- BE
- Xanh SM
Motorbike Taxi (Xe Ôm)
Motorbike taxis are a fast way to weave through Hanoi’s heavy traffic. You can book them via the GrabBike option on the Grab app.
- Short rides often start from around 25,000 VND
- Approximate fares:
- 5 km: about 21,000 VND
- 10 km: about 87,500 VND
Always wear the provided helmet and secure your belongings.
Where to Stay in Hanoi – Best Areas & Who They Suit
Old Quarter
The Old Quarter is Hanoi’s classic tourist hub and the most atmospheric area, full of narrow alleys, small shops, street food stalls, and cafés. You will find countless budget hotels, guesthouses, boutique hotels and hostels here.
Rooms on the main streets can be noisy due to traffic and nightlife. For lighter sleepers, choose a hotel set back in an alley rather than directly on a big road. Morning construction noise can also be an issue in some spots.
Hoan Kiem
Centered around Hoan Kiem Lake, this area is quieter than the Old Quarter and great for walking. Cultural attractions and museums are nearby. It is a good choice for families or travelers who prefer a calm accommodation environment but still want to stay central.
Tay Ho (West Lake)
Tay Ho is a more upscale residential area around West Lake. It has many expats, stylish cafés, and high‑end restaurants. Compared to downtown, it is greener and more relaxed.
It is ideal for travelers who want a slower, more laid‑back stay or long‑term visitors. Many villa‑style properties and resort‑like hotels are located here.
Ba Dinh
Ba Dinh is the political center of Vietnam and a great district for those interested in history and culture. It is quieter and more composed than the Old Quarter, yet still very central, making it a good base for museum and monument hopping.
Cau Giay
Cau Giay is a modern new town area, full of shopping malls, restaurants and cafés popular with locals. It’s a practical choice for business travelers or visitors who want to avoid the crowded tourist zones while still having conveniences nearby.
Long Bien
Long Bien is a quieter area near the river, known for its more natural surroundings and unique spots such as the Long Bien Bridge and banana plantations. It’s well‑suited to travelers and families who prefer to escape the hustle and enjoy peaceful stays or longer visits.
My Dinh
My Dinh, in western Hanoi, is a fast‑growing area with the National Convention Center and a large stadium. Many big hotels are located here.
It is a top pick for business travelers and visitors attending exhibitions or sports events. Compared to the core city center, it is less congested and often has lighter traffic.
Recommended Places to Stay
Most backpackers and many independent travelers stay around Hoan Kiem Lake, especially in the northern part (Old Quarter), where cheap hotels and hostels are concentrated. As noted, try to pick an inner‑alley property if you are sensitive to noise.
Hanoi’s hotel high season is primarily winter, and also during the summer vacation period. Overall, seasonal price differences are noticeable but not extreme.
Romantic Luxury Hotels for Couples
Intercontinental Hanoi Landmark72, An IHG Hotel
Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi
Family‑Friendly Residence‑Style Hotels
Somerset Grand Hanoi Serviced Residences
Good‑Value Budget Hotels
Recommended Hostels for Backpackers
Must‑See Sights
- Hoan Kiem Lake
A beautiful lake in the very heart of Hanoi, beloved by both locals and tourists. Mornings and evenings are especially lively with joggers, walkers and people exercising. - Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum
A monumental complex where the embalmed body of Vietnam’s founding father, Ho Chi Minh, is preserved. - Temple of Literature
Founded in the 11th century as Vietnam’s first university and a center of Confucian learning. The complex features peaceful courtyards, traditional architecture and is a popular spot for photos (including in traditional Ao Dai). - West Lake (Ho Tay)
Hanoi’s largest lake, with a relaxed atmosphere and many lakeside cafés and restaurants. It is also home to Tran Quoc Pagoda, one of Hanoi’s oldest Buddhist temples. - St. Joseph’s Cathedral
A striking Gothic‑style cathedral built during the French colonial period. - Long Bien Bridge
A historic steel bridge from the colonial era, popular for sunrise and sunset views over the river and visits to the nearby local markets. - Hanoi Train Street
A narrow alley where trains pass just meters away from cafés and houses. You can watch trains go by while enjoying a drink, though safety rules are increasingly enforced. - Halong Bay
A UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for its limestone karsts and caves. It is possible to visit on a (long) day trip from Hanoi, or better on an overnight cruise.
What to Eat in Hanoi
Vietnam is a paradise for fresh ingredients and flavorful dishes, and Hanoi is no exception. The ever‑popular pho (rice noodle soup) is cheap and widely available. “Pho Ga” is chicken pho, while “Pho Bo” is beef pho. There are thousands of small eateries across the city serving everything from noodles to fresh seafood.
Street food stalls in the Old Quarter are especially famous for being cheap, quick, and delicious, making them a must‑try for travelers.
Western food is also easy to find in Hanoi — pizzas, pastas, burgers, and other Asian cuisines — but prices are generally significantly higher than local food and quality can vary.
Cheap Breakfast (≈ 38,000–66,000 VND)
Pho is the most common and affordable breakfast.
- Beef pho (Pho Bo): 40,000–65,000 VND
Hostel Breakfast
Most hostels include a simple Western‑style breakfast, typically toast, eggs, jam, coffee and juice. If not included:
- Hostel breakfast: 30,000–60,000 VND
Hotel Breakfast
International buffet breakfasts in hotels usually combine Vietnamese dishes (pho, banh mi, etc.) with Western items (scrambled eggs, bacon, salads, etc.):
- Mid‑range hotel breakfast: 100,000–300,000 VND
- High‑end hotel breakfast: 400,000–800,000 VND
Cheap Lunch (≈ 63,000–110,000 VND)
Typical lunch items and prices:
- Banh Mi sandwich: 22,000–35,000 VND
- Egg coffee: 35,000 VND
- Ca phe sua da (iced coffee with condensed milk): 17,000–35,000 VND
- Fresh fruit shake: 20,000–28,000 VND
- Bun Bo Nam Bo (noodles with beef and herbs): 65,000 VND
- Bun Cha (grilled pork with noodles): 60,000–70,000 VND
Cheap Dinner (≈ 110,000–189,000 VND)
- Simple local restaurant: 35,000–125,000 VND per dish
- Soft drinks in restaurants: 9,000–20,000 VND
- Cha Ca La Vong (fried fish with herbs at the famous restaurant): from 176,000 VND
- Bottled water: 5,000–10,000 VND
- Lau (Vietnamese hotpot): 150,000–300,000 VND
Recommended Night Market Snacks
- Banh Cuon (steamed rice rolls with meat and mushrooms): 20,000–30,000 VND
- Fried shrimp (Tom Chien): 30,000–50,000 VND
- Coconut ice cream (Kem Dua): 20,000–30,000 VND
Sample Hanoi Trip Budgets (3 Nights / 4 Days)
Below are realistic budget estimates based on actual price data.
Solo Backpacker (Hostel + Street Food)
Approximate total: 1,600,000–1,700,000 VND
| Category | 3‑Night / 4‑Day Estimated Cost |
| Accommodation | Hostel dorm: 623,130 VND |
| Food | Street food & local eateries: 701,022 VND |
| Local transport | Bus, GrabBike, etc.: 155,784 VND |
| Sightseeing & activities | 233,673 VND |
| Total | 1,713,609 VND |
Two People on a Value Trip (3‑Star Hotel)
Approximate total: 9,500,000–10,000,000 VND (for 2 people)
| Category | 3‑Night / 4‑Day Estimated Cost (2 people) |
| Accommodation | 3‑star double/twin: 3,738,786 VND |
| Food | Local restaurants + cafés: 3,583,002 VND |
| Local transport | Grab, taxis, buses: ≈ 1,090,480 VND |
| Sightseeing & activities | 1,246,260 VND |
| Total | 9,658,528 VND |
Four‑Person Family Trip (3–4‑Star, 2 Rooms)
Approximate total: 19,300,000–20,000,000 VND (for 4 people)
| Category | 3‑Night Total (per person) | 3‑Night / 4‑Day Estimated Cost (4 people) |
| Accommodation | 3–4‑star, two doubles or family room | 7,477,572 VND |
| Food | Mix of local + restaurants | 7,166,004 VND |
| Local transport | Mainly Grab/taxis | ≈ 2,180,960 VND |
| Sightseeing & activities | 2,492,520 VND | |
| Total | 19,317,056 VND |
For families, real spending may be slightly lower because children often eat smaller portions and get discounts on tickets.
Vietnamese Currency & How to Handle Money
Vietnamese Dong (VND)
Vietnam’s official currency is the dong (VND). Coins are not used; only banknotes.
Common banknotes:
- 500, 1,000, 2,000, 5,000, 10,000, 20,000, 50,000, 100,000, 200,000, 500,000 VND
Be especially careful with 20,000 VND and 500,000 VND notes, as their colors are similar and they are easy to confuse.
Exchanging Money
Best overall method
A popular strategy is to exchange USD to VND in Vietnam. This exchange method often gives a better effective rate than changing other currency directly to VND.
Airport exchange
Noi Bai International Airport has many currency exchange counters. They are convenient and open 24/7. The rate is slightly worse than in the city, but not dramatically so.
- A good strategy is to change a small amount at the airport (for transport and small expenses), then exchange more once you reach the city.
City exchange offices
The Old Quarter has many money changers. Compare rates at several shops before choosing one.
- Gold shops also exchange money and often offer better rates than normal exchange booths.
- A famous area is Hang Bac Street, traditionally lined with gold shops and money changers. For example:
Gold shop exchanges can offer the best rates, but technically operate in a legal grey area, so exercise caution.
Hotels and some restaurants can also exchange money, but rates are typically worse than gold shops or banks.
Bank exchange
Major banks such as Vietcombank, BIDV, Techcombank in Hanoi offer safe and official exchange services, though sometimes with longer queues and more paperwork.
ATMs
ATMs are widely available across Hanoi, making it easy to withdraw VND. There may be small fees from both the local bank and your home bank.
Credit & Debit Cards
Most mid‑range and high‑end hotels accept credit cards. Major shopping malls, large supermarkets, and convenience stores also generally accept cards. Many upscale or chain restaurants allow card payments as well.
However:
- Some places add a 2–3% surcharge for card payments.
- Many small local restaurants and street vendors are cash‑only, so always carry some VND in small denominations.