The best areas to stay in Hanoi are Old Quarter, Hoan Kiem District, French Quarter, Tay Ho (West Lake), Ba Dinh District (Embassy Area), Cau Giay District, and Long Bien District.
That’s an overwhelming answer to your question about where to stay in Hanoi.
This vibrant city seamlessly blends ancient traditions with modern developments, offering visitors a unique and captivating experience.
Hanoi is steeped in history and boasts a rich cultural heritage.
The city is adorned with beautiful temples, pagodas, and historic landmarks like the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, the Temple of Literature, and the iconic One Pillar Pagoda.
The Old Quarter of Hanoi is a bustling maze of narrow streets and ancient architecture.
Its vibrant atmosphere, with the scent of street food wafting through the air, draws visitors in.
The Old Quarter is famous for its traditional craft guilds, where each street is dedicated to a specific trade.
Exploring the local markets, enjoying delicious street food, and witnessing the bustling street life is a quintessential Hanoi experiences.
Hanoi is surrounded by stunning natural landscapes, such as Hoan Kiem Lake, West Lake, and the Red River.
These picturesque locations offer tranquility and beautiful backdrops for relaxation and leisurely walks.
The city’s many parks and green spaces, including Lenin Park and Thong Nhat Park, provide an escape from the urban hustle and allow visitors to enjoy a peaceful environment.
Hanoi is renowned for its diverse and delectable cuisine.
From iconic dishes like pho (noodle soup), bun cha (grilled pork with noodles), to egg coffee and bánh mì (Vietnamese sandwich), the city is a food lover’s paradise.
Exploring the bustling street food scene or indulging in local restaurants allows visitors to savor the authentic flavors of Vietnamese cuisine.
With so many things to offer, it’s a bit challenging to pick the right area for you.
We’ve come up with a list of recommended areas to make things easier.
Each of the recommended areas comes with its own advantages and disadvantages, which are summarized after each paragraph.
With that being said, let’s jump straight to our recommendations.
Where to stay in Hanoi? Keep reading!
Overview of best areas to stay in Hanoi
Below, you find a table with an overview of all the recommended areas along with a short explanation of what makes that area so special.
You can tap on one of the green links to go immediately to that recommended area, or just continue reading the article.
| Best areas to stay in Hanoi | What’s so special about the area? |
|---|---|
| 1. Old Quarter | Known as the heart of Hanoi, the Old Quarter is a vibrant and bustling area with narrow streets, colonial architecture, and numerous shops, markets, and street food stalls. It’s a fantastic place to experience the city’s history, culture, and street life. |
| 2. Hoan Kiem District | Located near the Old Quarter, Hoan Kiem District is home to the picturesque Hoan Kiem Lake, which is surrounded by beautiful parks and historic landmarks. This area offers a mix of traditional charm and modern amenities. |
| 3. French Quarter |
The French Quarter is characterized by wide tree-lined boulevards, elegant colonial-era buildings, and charming cafes. It’s home to major attractions like the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, Presidential Palace, and the Temple of Literature. |
| 4. Tay Ho (West Lake) | Situated west of the city center, Tay Ho is known for its tranquil atmosphere and scenic views of West Lake. It offers a peaceful escape from the bustling city and features many lakeside cafes, restaurants, and expatriate communities. |
| 5. Ba Dinh District (Embassy Area) | Ba Dinh District is home to several foreign embassies and is known for its spacious streets and beautiful gardens. It’s a more upscale and residential area, offering a quieter environment while still being close to the city’s main attractions. |
| Located southwest of the city center, Cau Giay District is a rapidly developing area with modern infrastructure, high-rise buildings, and shopping malls. It’s a good choice for those seeking a more modern and cosmopolitan atmosphere. | |
| Situated east of the Red River, Long Bien District offers a more authentic and local experience. It’s known for its traditional markets, ancient villages, and the historic Long Bien Bridge, which provides excellent views of the city skyline. |
How to get around in Hanoi as a tourist?
Hanoi’s city center, particularly the Old Quarter and Hoan Kiem District, is compact and pedestrian-friendly.
Walking is a great way to explore the narrow streets, soak in the local atmosphere, and discover hidden gems.
Cyclos are three-wheeled cycle rickshaws that offer a unique way to navigate the streets of Hanoi.
Sit back and enjoy a leisurely ride as the cyclo driver pedals you through the city’s bustling streets.
Negotiate the fare before starting your journey, though.
Taxis are widely available in Hanoi, and they provide a convenient way to travel long distances or when you have heavy luggage.
Stick to reputable taxi companies like Mai Linh or Vinasun, and ask the driver to use the meter or negotiate a fixed price before starting your ride.
Grab is a ride-hailing app widely used in Hanoi.
Motorbike taxis, known as “xe om“, are a popular and affordable mode of transportation in Hanoi.
Always look for drivers wearing identifiable vests and negotiate the fare in advance.
While convenient, keep in mind that motorbike taxis can be less safe than other modes of transportation, so exercise caution.
Hanoi has an extensive bus network that covers most areas of the city.
Buses are an economical way to travel, but they can be crowded and confusing for non-Vietnamese speakers.
But honestly, not many tourists will use this form of transport though.
Hanoi’s metro system, although still under construction, offers a convenient and efficient mode of transportation once completed.
It’s essential to keep in mind that traffic in Hanoi can be busy and chaotic, especially during peak hours.
What is the best time of the year to visit Hanoi?
Overall, the months of March to April and September to November are often considered the best times to visit Hanoi due to pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and the opportunity to witness cultural events and natural beauty.
However, we can’t deny that Hanoi is a popular destination throughout the year.
Spring (March to April)
Spring is considered one of the best times to visit Hanoi. The weather is mild, with temperatures ranging from 18°C to 24°C (64°F to 75°F).
The city is adorned with beautiful cherry blossoms and other blooming flowers, creating a picturesque atmosphere.
It’s a popular time for festivals, including the Lunar New Year (Tet), which brings vibrant celebrations and cultural activities.
Summer (May to August)
Hanoi’s summer is characterized by hot and humid weather, with temperatures reaching around 30°C to 35°C (86°F to 95°F).
While the heat can be intense, this period offers a chance to explore Hanoi’s indoor attractions, such as museums and temples.
It’s worth noting that occasional rain showers are common during the summer months.
Autumn (September to November)
Autumn is another excellent time to visit Hanoi.
The weather becomes cooler and more comfortable, ranging from 20°C to 28°C (68°F to 82°F).
The city is adorned with golden hues as the leaves change color, creating a picturesque backdrop for sightseeing.
Autumn also brings fewer crowds, making it an ideal time for a more relaxed and peaceful visit.
Winter (December to February)
Hanoi’s winter is relatively mild, with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 20°C (59°F to 68°F).
It can occasionally get colder, especially in December and January.
While it’s the coldest time of year, it offers a unique charm, especially around the holiday season.
You can experience the festive atmosphere, enjoy street food, and visit indoor attractions without the crowds.
The best areas to stay in Hanoi are:
1. Old Quarter
The Old Quarter is the historic heart of Hanoi and one of the city’s most vibrant and bustling areas.
It’s characterized by narrow streets, each named after the trade that traditionally took place there.
The area is known for its colonial architecture, traditional tube houses, and a maze of shops, markets, and street food stalls.
Strolling through the Old Quarter is an experience in itself, with a lively atmosphere, colorful buildings, and a glimpse into Hanoi’s rich history and culture.
Some of the best hotels to stay in Hanoi in this particular area are listed below:
Agoda is part of Booking.com, and often offers significantly cheaper options compared to its competitors. You’ll get the same service that you are used to at Booking.com, but you simply pay less.
2. Hoan Kiem District
Hoan Kiem District encompasses the Old Quarter and is home to the iconic Hoan Kiem Lake.
The lake is surrounded by charming parks and landmarks like the Ngoc Son Temple, which is accessible via the red-painted Huc Bridge.
The district offers a mix of traditional and modern attractions, including historic temples, bustling markets, cozy cafes, and traditional water puppet shows.
The area is particularly lively in the evenings when locals gather around the lake to socialize and exercise.
Some of the best hotels to stay in Hanoi in this particular area are listed below:
Agoda is part of Booking.com, and often offers significantly cheaper options compared to its competitors. You’ll get the same service that you are used to at Booking.com, but you simply pay less.
3. French Quarter
The French Quarter, located in Ba Dinh District, showcases Hanoi’s colonial past with wide, tree-lined boulevards and well-preserved French architecture.
Strolling along the streets, you’ll find elegant villas, government buildings, and historic landmarks like the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, where visitors can pay their respects to the country’s revered leader.
The Temple of Literature, Vietnam’s first national university, is also located in this district.
The French Quarter offers a more laid-back and elegant atmosphere compared to the bustling Old Quarter.
Some of the best hotels to stay in Hanoi in this particular area are listed below:
Agoda is part of Booking.com, and often offers significantly cheaper options compared to its competitors. You’ll get the same service that you are used to at Booking.com, but you simply pay less.
4. Tay Ho (West Lake)
Tay Ho is a peaceful and scenic area located west of the city center, surrounding the expansive West Lake.
This district offers a respite from the hustle and bustle of the city, with its tranquil lakeside setting and stunning sunset views.
The area is dotted with lakeside cafes, trendy restaurants, and boutique shops.
Tay Ho is also home to several expatriate communities, giving it an international and cosmopolitan vibe.
Some of the best hotels to stay in Hanoi in this particular area are listed below:
Agoda is part of Booking.com, and often offers significantly cheaper options compared to its competitors. You’ll get the same service that you are used to at Booking.com, but you simply pay less.
5. Ba Dinh District (Embassy Area)
Ba Dinh District is a more upscale and residential area of Hanoi, known for hosting many foreign embassies.
It features wide streets, beautiful gardens, and a quieter atmosphere compared to the city center.
Major attractions in this district include the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, where visitors can see the embalmed body of the country’s former leader, and the Presidential Palace.
The district also offers a variety of dining options, from local eateries to international restaurants.
Some of the best hotels to stay in Hanoi in this particular area are listed below:
Agoda is part of Booking.com, and often offers significantly cheaper options compared to its competitors. You’ll get the same service that you are used to at Booking.com, but you simply pay less.
6. Cau Giay District
Located southwest of the city center, Cau Giay District is a rapidly developing area with modern infrastructure, high-rise buildings, and shopping malls.
This district is popular among the younger generation and offers a more modern and cosmopolitan atmosphere.
It’s known for its vibrant nightlife, trendy cafes, and shopping opportunities.
Cau Giay District is also home to several universities and attracts a large student population.
Some of the best hotels to stay in Hanoi in this particular area are listed below:
Agoda is part of Booking.com, and often offers significantly cheaper options compared to its competitors. You’ll get the same service that you are used to at Booking.com, but you simply pay less.
7. Long Bien District
Situated east of the Red River, Long Bien District offers a glimpse into Hanoi’s local and authentic side.
The district is known for its traditional markets, where you can experience the local way of life and sample a wide range of street food.
Long Bien Bridge, an iconic landmark, connects the district to the city center and provides panoramic views of the Red River and Hanoi’s skyline.
The district also boasts ancient villages, such as Duong Lam, where you can immerse yourself in traditional Vietnamese rural life.
Some of the best hotels to stay in Hanoi in this particular area are listed below:
Agoda is part of Booking.com, and often offers significantly cheaper options compared to its competitors. You’ll get the same service that you are used to at Booking.com, but you simply pay less.
Map of the best areas to stay in Hanoi
The next image is a map of the best area to stay in Hanoi including its highlights.
The image is in high resolution so you can easily zoom in to see all the details.
A map will follow soon.
There you have it, our recommendations for where to stay in Hanoi.