Hanoi, Vietnam

🌆 Why Visit Hanoi?

Old Quarter Magic

Wander the narrow alleys of the Old Quarter, Hanoi’s historic heart. Each street once specialized in a different trade—from silver to herbs—and still retains the charm of its origins. It’s a sensory overload: scooters weaving through crowds, vendors shouting offers, and the scent of grilled meats in the air.

🏛️ Cultural Landmarks

  • Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum: A must-see for history lovers. This is the final resting place of Vietnam’s most iconic leader.

  • Temple of Literature: Vietnam’s first university, built in 1070, it’s a serene blend of Confucian heritage and traditional architecture.

  • Thang Long Imperial Citadel: A UNESCO World Heritage site that reflects the layered history of Vietnam's dynasties.

🏞️ Lakes & Parks

Hoan Kiem Lake is the soul of the city, especially beautiful at sunrise. Locals practice tai chi, couples walk hand-in-hand, and the iconic red bridge leads to the peaceful Ngoc Son Temple. Don’t miss West Lake, the largest in Hanoi, home to cafes, pagodas, and high-end residences.


🍜 What to Eat in Hanoi

Hanoi is a street food paradise:

  • Phở: Born here! Slurp the original version of this beef noodle soup.

  • Bún chả: A smoky dish of grilled pork served with noodles and herbs.

  • Egg coffee: Invented in Hanoi. It’s like tiramisu in a cup—creamy, rich, and unforgettable.

Pro tip: Pull up a plastic stool at a street vendor, and join the locals for an authentic experience.


🎭 Cultural Experiences

  • Water Puppet Theatre: A truly Vietnamese art form, where wooden puppets dance on water accompanied by live folk music.

  • Night Markets & Art Streets: Hang Gai and Trang Tien streets are full of galleries and silk shops. On weekends, the Old Quarter transforms into a walking street filled with music, crafts, and food stalls.


🛵 Getting Around

Scooters rule the streets! While it might seem chaotic, there’s a rhythm to it. Tourists often explore by cyclo (pedicab), grab bike, or on foot for a close-up look at the daily life in Hanoi.


🌤️ Current Weather in Hanoi (Coordinated Style)

Today in Hanoi, the air carries a soft humidity, with temperatures hovering around 29°C (84°F). The sky is partly cloudy, offering moments of sun and shade alike—ideal for lake strolls or café lounging. A light breeze brushes through the city, and in the evening, expect a slightly cooler, comfortable vibe—perfect for a bowl of hot phở by lantern light.


🏨 Where to Stay

  • Budget: Little Charm Hanoi Hostel

  • Mid-range: La Siesta Hotel & Spa

  • Luxury: Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi – a French colonial icon


📅 Best Time to Visit

Visit from October to April for cooler, drier weather and clearer skies—great for sightseeing and walking tours. Spring (March–April) is especially beautiful, with blossoms and festivals.


💬 Final Thoughts

Hanoi is not just a city—it’s a feeling. It’s the buzz of mopeds, the laughter from street corners, the calm of a lotus pond, and the scent of coffee brewed with history. It’s a destination that charms slowly, deeply, and permanently.