Hanoi, Vietnam

Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam, is known for its centuries-old architecture, rich culture, and vibrant street life. With a population of about 8 million people, it blends the charm of colonial architecture with bustling markets and traditional Vietnamese culture. The city is famous for its lakes, temples, and delicious street food.

 

1. Tourist Attractions

  • Hoàn Kiếm Lake (Sword Lake)

    • Highlights: A peaceful lake in the heart of Hanoi, known for the iconic Turtle Tower and the Ngoc Son Temple. Locals often come here for walks and morning exercises.
    • Entrance Fee: Free for the lake. Ngoc Son Temple entry is 30,000 VND (~1.25 USD).
    • Opening Hours: The lake is accessible 24/7. Ngoc Son Temple: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM.
    • Getting There: Located in Hanoi’s Old Quarter, you can easily walk or take a short taxi ride.

  • Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum

    • Highlights: The final resting place of Vietnam’s revolutionary leader, Ho Chi Minh. You can visit his embalmed body in this massive, imposing structure.
    • Entrance Fee: Free.
    • Opening Hours: 7:30 AM – 10:30 AM (Closed on Mondays and Fridays).
    • Getting There: Located in Ba Dinh Square, a taxi or motorbike taxi (Grab) can get you here from any part of Hanoi.

  • Temple of Literature

    • Highlights: Vietnam’s first national university, built in 1070, dedicated to Confucius. A beautiful historical site featuring well-preserved architecture and serene gardens.
    • Entrance Fee: 30,000 VND (~1.25 USD).
    • Opening Hours: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM.
    • Getting There: Around 2km from Hoàn Kiếm Lake, taxis or motorbike taxis are convenient.

  • Hanoi Old Quarter

    • Highlights: A maze of 36 streets, each traditionally dedicated to a different trade. You’ll find everything from silk and handicrafts to street food and cafes.
    • Entrance Fee: Free.
    • Getting There: Easily accessible by walking if you’re staying nearby, or a short ride on a taxi or Grab.

  • Vietnam Museum of Ethnology

    • Highlights: Exhibits showcasing the diversity of Vietnam’s 54 ethnic groups, including traditional houses, clothing, and artifacts.
    • Entrance Fee: 40,000 VND (~1.70 USD).
    • Opening Hours: 8:30 AM – 5:30 PM (Closed on Mondays).
    • Getting There: About 8km from the city center, take a taxi or Grab.

  • Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre

    • Highlights: A traditional Vietnamese art form performed on water. The performances are accompanied by live traditional music.
    • Entrance Fee: 100,000 – 200,000 VND (~4.25 – 8.50 USD).
    • Opening Hours: Performances at 3:30 PM, 5:00 PM, 6:30 PM, and 8:00 PM.
    • Getting There: Located near Hoàn Kiếm Lake, you can walk or take a short ride.

2. How to Get Around

  • Taxis and Rideshares: Grab (similar to Uber) is very popular and convenient for short trips.
  • Motorbike Taxis: Motorbike taxis are everywhere, either hailed from the street or booked through Grab.
  • Public Buses: Affordable but not ideal for tourists due to language barriers and complex routes.
  • Cyclo Rides: Traditional bicycle taxis are a fun way to explore the Old Quarter and nearby attractions.
  • Walking: Many areas, especially the Old Quarter, are walkable.

3. Popular Local Food

  • Pho: Vietnam’s famous noodle soup with beef (Pho Bo) or chicken (Pho Ga). Try Pho Bat Dan or Pho Thin for authentic flavors.
  • Bun Cha: Grilled pork served with noodles and dipping sauce. Bun Cha Dac Kim is a popular spot.
  • Banh Mi: A Vietnamese sandwich with a French twist. Banh Mi 25 is well-known among both locals and tourists.
  • Egg Coffee: Creamy coffee with whipped egg yolk. Giang Café is credited with inventing it.
  • Cha Ca: Grilled fish served with dill and vermicelli. Cha Ca La Vong is an iconic restaurant for this dish.

5. Top Nightlife Spots

  • Beer Street (Ta Hien Street)

    • Highlights: A bustling street lined with bars, perfect for casual drinks and mingling with both locals and tourists.
    • Entrance Fee: Free entry to bars. Beers cost around 20,000 – 30,000 VND (~0.85 – 1.25 USD).
    • Happy Hour: Typically 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM, with drink specials and discounts.
    • Getting There: Located in the Old Quarter, easy to reach by foot or a short taxi ride.

  • 1900 Le Theatre

    • Highlights: One of Hanoi’s most popular nightclubs, known for its vibrant atmosphere and live DJ performances.
    • Entrance Fee: 100,000 – 200,000 VND (~4.25 – 8.50 USD) depending on the night.
    • Happy Hour: Often from 8:00 PM to 10:00 PM, with discounted drinks.
    • Getting There: Located on Ta Hien Street, near Beer Street, so it’s easy to walk or grab a ride.

  • The Bank Hanoi

    • Highlights: A high-end rooftop bar and nightclub with a fantastic view of Hoàn Kiếm Lake.
    • Entrance Fee: Typically 200,000 VND (~8.50 USD), but it can vary.
    • Happy Hour: From 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM with 50% off cocktails.
    • Getting There: A short walk from the lake or a quick taxi ride.

  • Binh Minh Jazz Club

    • Highlights: A legendary spot for live jazz performances, offering a laid-back vibe with excellent music.
    • Entrance Fee: Free entry.
    • Happy Hour: Generally not available, but drink prices are reasonable.
    • Getting There: Close to the Hoàn Kiếm area, you can walk or take a quick taxi.

6. How to Get to Hanoi

  • By Air: Noi Bai International Airport (HAN) is 45 minutes from the city center. Taxis, buses, and Grab are available.
  • By Train: Hanoi Railway Station connects to other major cities, including overnight trains to Sapa and Ninh Binh.
  • By Bus: Several bus companies run routes from nearby cities like Ninh Binh, Sapa, and Ha Long Bay.

Hanoi offers a blend of history, modern attractions, great food, and lively nightlife, making it an excellent destination for all kinds of travelers.