Hanoi

Introduction to Hanoi

Hanoi - “the city between rivers” is the official capital city of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam, and it is also the second-biggest city.

Founded over 1,000 years ago and have been through years of historical events, Vietnam’s capital city is rich in history and, as many citizens here state, “Hanoi is all about the past”.

Hoan Kiem lake

As soon as you land in Hanoi, you'll be in the heart of the city, surrounded by well-preserved colonial structures, historic pagodas, and distinctive museums. Some of the most fascinating cities in Southeast Asia, with a blend of Chinese and French influences and the vibrant Vietnamese culture, comprise the historic Old Town, the colonial French Quarter, ancient temples dating back more than a thousand years, and various scenic lakes and landmarks.

Apart from its ancient look, Hanoi serves as the nation's political, cultural, scientific, and technological hub and is significant to both domestic and global economies.

Let’s come with us - Asia Private Travels - to explore this captivating city. And if you want meaningful Vietnam tours to discover the rich history of Hanoi, contact us right away for the best deals.

Hanoi Tourism

Over 600 pagodas and temples, as well as the Old Quarter, have been preserved by Hanoi throughout its turbulent 1,000-year history, which has been marked by destruction, war, and natural disasters. You can start your Hanoi tours with the One Pillar Pagoda, the Temple of Literature, the Hanoi Citadel, the Hanoi Opera House, and Hoa Lo Prison; they are just a few of the well-known locations.

The Old Quarter 

In particular, you must not miss the chance to visit Ho Chi Minh’s Mausoleum when visiting Hanoi. Ho Chi Minh, the most beloved leader of Vietnam and a key figure in the country's independence, passed away in 1969. Vietnamese citizens then made the decision to construct a mausoleum in his honor as part of the Ho Chi Minh mausoleum complex. 

Ho Chi Minh’s Mausoleum

In terms of cultural practices, Hanoi also employs many traditional handicrafts, such as bronze molding, silver carving, lacquer, and embroidery. The Bat Trang pottery village, the Ngu Xa bronze casting village, and the Yen Thai glossy silk village are just a few of the well-known traditional professional handicraft villages in Hanoi.

Handicraft items

Hoan Kiem Lake, West Lake, and Truc Bach Lake are just a few of Hanoi's 18 picturesque lakes, which are the city's lungs and a vital source of energy thanks to the surrounding gardens and trees. This is why Hanoi is also known as “the city of lakes and rivers.” You would not want to miss the bike tour around West Lake when the sun goes down or walking around Hoan Kiem Lake in Hoan Kiem Walking Street and enjoying the vibrant nightlife in Hanoi with tons of singing, dancing, and traditional games.

Hanoi Weather

There are four seasons in Hanoi's typical tropical monsoon climate: spring, summer, autumn, and winter.

Hanoi's spring, which lasts from February to April, is hot, rainy, and humid. Typically, the average temperature falls between 15°C and 20°C. The best time for tourists to experience the dynamism of tropical nature is in the spring because this type of weather is suitable for plant growth and flower blooming. The longest and most important Vietnamese festival of the year, Tet, occurs in the spring.

Mid Autumn Festival

Fall is regarded as the most lovely and romantic season to visit Hanoi. The typical duration of this season is from the middle of September to the end of November. You should visit Hanoi in the autumn if you enjoy watching the leaves change color, eating some seasonal specialties like young green rice, and taking your time to appreciate the beauty of your surroundings.

With an average temperature of 17.2°C, Hanoi's winter weather will begin in December and could last until the end of February. If you don't want to catch a cold while traveling to a tropical country, pack some seriously warm clothing! 

Vietnamese steamed rice roll

Hanoi Transport

There are many ways to travel to Hanoi based on your budget and interests. Asia Private Travels suggests that you choose one of the following modes of transport to start your Vietnam holidays:

- By plane: Noi Bai Airport can serve both domestic flights from other provinces and international flights from various countries. Therefore, based on your starting point, if you are in another country, you can choose to fly directly to the capital city of Vietnam.

Noi Bai International Airport is located only 45 kilometers from central Hanoi. It’s very easy for you to find a taxi or book a private car to pick you up and drive you to your hotel or other tourist attractions. But you will not have to mind that if you have the help of Asia Private Travels, so contact us as soon as possible.

West lake

- By train: The main train station in Vietnam is the Hanoi Railway Station, which you can choose to rely on. It serves as the starting point for five railway lines that go to almost all of Vietnam's provinces.

The main train station in Hanoi is situated on Le Duan Street, just outside of the Ba Dinh district and close to Hoan Kiem. The quickest route to this location is to travel west on Ly Thuong Kiet, which comes to an end at the station.

Hanoi train

- By bus: Hanoi is a massive transportation hub, with four bus stations and three train stations of use to foreigners. Sorting out where to go and what bus operators to choose can be time-consuming, so often you will be better off paying for the convenience of booking through a hotel or travel agency.

If you choose us - Asia Private Travels as your companion, we will provide you with the latest information.

Hanoi accommodation

Have you chosen your Hanoi accommodations yet if you're thinking about visiting this city soon? If not, Asia Private Travels is here to help! Since Hanoi is a city that is constantly changing, there are a ton of fantastic hotels to pick from:

Luxurious Hanoi days: West Lake (Tay Ho)

Interior hotel in Hanoi

Affordable and close to the central: Old Quarter (Hoan Kiem)

Spending time on a Vietnam family tour: Ba Dinh

Vibrant nightlife: West Lake (Tay Ho) and Old Quarter (Hoan Kiem)

Hotels are unquestionably the most popular type of lodging in Hanoi, Vietnam. Everything is available, from luxurious 5-star hotels to modest homestays.

Hanoi view from above

Here are some tips for staying in Hanoi. Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi, Hanoi La Siesta Central Hotel & Spa, InterContinental Hanoi West Lake, and Sheraton Hanoi Hotel can be considered some of the best hotels in Hoan Kiem and Tay Ho districts. They are sophisticated accommodations with a variety of nearby restaurants and bars that can provide you with the best stay while visiting Vietnam.

For more affordable options, Asia Private Travels recommends checking out Hanoi Marvellous Hotel & Spa, Hanoi Pearl Hotel, and Hanoi Anise Hotel & Spa. 

Beware, Hanoi is a popular tourist attraction among domestic and international travelers. There’s not always plenty of availability, as hotels, apartments, and other services do sell out! So be sure to be quick and book your tour as soon as possible!

If you want an interesting and meaningful journey with the local experts, you probably know where to find them. Contact Asia Private Travels as soon as the intention pop up in your mind.