Hanoi, the vibrant capital city of Vietnam, is a bustling hub of culture, history, and street life. From ancient temples and historical landmarks to trendy cafes and nightlife, there is something for everyone in this fascinating city. In this travel blog, I'll take you through some of the best hidden gems that Hanoi has to offer.
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| Old Quarter |
Hanoi offers a unique blend of history, culture, and modernity. I'll take you through the top 10 destinations in Hanoi, guaranteed to make your trip unforgettable.
Top 10 Tourist Destinatons in Hanoi
1. Hoan Kiem Lake
Located in the heart of the city, Hoan Kiem Lake is a must-visit for anyone traveling to Hanoi. The lake is surrounded by lush greenery and offers a peaceful escape from the chaos of the city. Legend has it that the lake is home to a giant turtle, making it a popular spot for visitors to try and catch a glimpse of this mythical creature.
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| TheTemple of Literature |
2. The Temple of Literature
The Temple of Literature is one of the oldest and most well-preserved temples in Vietnam. Originally built in the 11th century as a Confucian temple, it later became Vietnam's first university. The temple is filled with beautiful architecture, peaceful courtyards, and historical artifacts.
3. Dong Xuan Market
For those who love to shop, Dong Xuan Market is the place to be. This bustling market offers a wide range of goods, from souvenirs and clothing to fresh produce and street food. It's a great place to immerse yourself in the local culture and pick up some unique gifts for friends and family back home.
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| Hoan Kiem Lakee |
4. Bia Hoi Junction
For a taste of Hanoi's nightlife, head to Bia Hoi Junction. This area is famous for its cheap beer and lively atmosphere, with locals and tourists alike mingling in the streets. It's the perfect place to relax and enjoy a cold drink after a long day of exploring the city.
5. Long Bien Bridge
The Long Bien Bridge is a symbol of Hanoi's resilience and history. Built in the late 19th century, it has survived wars and natural disasters, and is still in use today. Walking across the bridge is a unique experience, with stunning views of the Red River and the city skyline.
Also, READ HERE: Halong Bay Tour in Vietnam: Top Things To Do, Budget Itinerary
6. Hanoi Opera House
The Hanoi Opera House is a stunning example of French colonial architecture and a popular destination for music and theater enthusiasts. Built in the early 20th century, the opera house features stunning interior design and hosts a variety of cultural events throughout the year.
7. Old Quarter
The Old Quarter is a maze of narrow streets and alleyways lined with colorful colonial-era buildings. Here you'll find a mix of trendy cafes, street vendors, and traditional shops selling everything from silk to souvenirs. The area comes alive at night with street performances and live music.
8. Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum
The Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in the history of Vietnam. The mausoleum is home to the preserved body of Vietnam's beloved leader, Ho Chi Minh. The complex also includes the Presidential Palace, Ho Chi Minh's stilt house, and the One Pillar Pagoda.
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| Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum |
9. Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre
The Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre is a unique cultural experience not to be missed. The traditional art of water puppetry originated in the Red River Delta and is a popular form of entertainment in Vietnam. The show combines live music, singing, and puppetry, telling stories of Vietnamese folklore and history.
10. St. Joseph's Cathedral
St. Joseph's Cathedral is a stunning example of French colonial architecture in Hanoi. Built in the late 19th century, the cathedral features soaring Gothic arches and stained-glass windows. It's a peaceful escape from the busy streets of the Old Quarter.
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Where to stay in Hanoi
Hanoi is a city full of character and charm, and choosing the right accommodation can greatly enhance your overall experience. With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to decide where to stay. I'll help you navigate the different neighborhoods and types of accommodation available, so you can find the perfect place to stay in Hanoi.
Old Quarter
The Old Quarter is the heart of Hanoi, and one of the most popular areas for tourists to stay. This area is full of character, with narrow streets lined with old buildings, street vendors, and cafes. The accommodation options here range from budget hostels to luxury hotels, so there's something for every budget. I highly recommend staying in this area. It's close to some of the popular tourist destinations in Hanoi
Ba Dinh
Ba Dinh is a more upscale area of Hanoi, with plenty of green space and historical sites. This area is home to the Presidential Palace, Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, and the One Pillar Pagoda. Accommodation options in Ba Dinh include luxury hotels and serviced apartments.
Tay Ho
Tay Ho is a more relaxed and residential area of Hanoi, located near the West Lake. This area is popular with expats and offers a more peaceful atmosphere, with plenty of restaurants, cafes, and boutique shops. Accommodation options in Tay Ho include apartments, guesthouses, and boutique hotels.
Hoan Kiem
Hoan Kiem is another popular area for tourists, located near the city's iconic Hoan Kiem Lake. This area is home to many of the city's major attractions, including the Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre and St. Joseph's Cathedral. Accommodation options in Hoan Kiem include budget guesthouses, mid-range hotels, and luxury properties.
Cau Giay
Cau Giay is a newer and more modern area of Hanoi, located to the west of the city center. This area is popular with business travelers and offers a range of accommodation options, including serviced apartments and international chain hotels.
Where to stay in Hanoi? Check Room Rates HERE.
Best Hanoi Attractions? Check Tour Rates HERE.
Where to eat in Hanoi
Hanoi is a food lover's paradise, with a diverse range of culinary experiences to be had. From street food stalls to upscale restaurants, there's something to suit every taste and budget. I'll take you through some of the best places to eat in Hanoi, so you can experience the city's vibrant food scene.
Old Quarter
The Old Quarter is a great place to experience Hanoi's street food scene. The narrow streets are filled with food stalls and vendors selling everything from pho to banh mi to egg coffee. Some of the most popular street food spots in the Old Quarter include Bun Cha Huong Lien, which was visited by former US President Barack Obama, and Pho Thin, which is known for its rich and flavorful pho.
Hoan Kiem
Hoan Kiem is another great area to experience street food in Hanoi. The area around Hoan Kiem Lake is particularly popular, with stalls selling everything from grilled meats to sweet treats. One popular spot is Banh Mi 25, which serves up delicious banh mi sandwiches with a variety of fillings.
West Lake
West Lake is home to some of Hanoi's most upscale restaurants, with a focus on fine dining and international cuisine. Some popular options include La Verticale, which serves up French-inspired dishes with a Vietnamese twist, and Don's Bistro, which offers a fusion of Vietnamese and Mediterranean cuisine.
Tay Ho
Tay Ho is another area with a diverse range of dining options. There are plenty of cafes and restaurants along the lakefront, as well as street food vendors selling local specialties. One popular spot is Xuan Xuan, which serves up hotpot with a variety of meats and seafood.
Ba Dinh
Ba Dinh is home to some of Hanoi's most iconic street food spots, including Bun Bo Nam Bo, which serves up delicious noodle dishes with beef and herbs, and Cha Ca La Vong, which is known for its grilled fish with turmeric and dill.
Where to stay in Hanoi? Check Room Rates HERE.
Best Hanoi Attractions? Check Tour Rates HERE.
How to Get to Hanoi
If you're planning a trip to Hanoi, one of the first things you'll need to consider is how to get there. I'll take you through the various travel options available, so you can choose the one that suits you best.
By Air
The quickest and most convenient way to get to Hanoi is by air. Noi Bai International Airport is located about 45 minutes from the city center and is serviced by a variety of airlines, including major carriers such as Vietnam Airlines, Cathay Pacific, and Singapore Airlines. The airport is also well-connected to major cities in Southeast Asia and beyond, making it a popular transit hub. If you are coming from the Philippines, you may take Cebu Pacific.
By Train
If you're traveling within Vietnam, taking the train to Hanoi is a scenic and affordable option. Hanoi has several train stations, with the main one being Hanoi Railway Station. The station is located in the city center and is serviced by several train companies, including Vietnam Railways and Livitrans Express. The journey from Ho Chi Minh City to Hanoi takes about 30 hours, but shorter journeys are available from other cities such as Hue and Da Nang.
By Bus
Taking the bus to Hanoi is another affordable option, particularly if you're traveling from nearby cities such as Ninh Binh or Halong Bay. Several bus companies operate services to Hanoi, including The Sinh Tourist and Hoang Long. The journey times vary depending on your departure point, but most buses arrive at the bus station in the city center.
By Car or Motorbike
If you're feeling adventurous, driving or riding a motorbike to Hanoi can be an exciting way to see the countryside. However, be aware that traffic in Vietnam can be chaotic, so this option is only recommended for experienced drivers or riders. If you're renting a car or motorbike, make sure you have the appropriate license and insurance.
By Boat
Finally, if you're traveling to Hanoi from nearby destinations such as Halong Bay or Cat Ba Island, taking a boat or ferry can be a scenic option. Several companies offer boat tours and transfers to Hanoi, including Bhaya Cruises and Cat Ba Ventures. The journey times vary depending on your departure point, but most boats arrive at a port in Hanoi, where you can take a taxi or bus to the city center.
Where to stay in Hanoi? Check Room Rates HERE.
Best Hanoi Attractions? Check Tour Rates HERE.
Hanoi is a city full of hidden gems waiting to be discovered. From ancient temples and historical landmarks to trendy cafes and nightlife, there is something for everyone in this fascinating city. Whether you're a history buff, foodie, or just looking for a new adventure, Hanoi is sure to leave a lasting impression. So why not book your trip today and discover all that this amazing city has to offer?
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