Hello, world wanderers! Buckle up for a cultural adventure in the enchanting city of Hanoi, Vietnam's capital! This 1,000-year-old city is a blend of the old and the new, where tranquil ancient pagodas sit quietly amidst the hustle and bustle of modern life. Hanoi, with its bustling street food scene, scenic lakes, colonial architecture, and vibrant nightlife, will take you on a journey through time. Let's dive into this guide and prepare to have your senses dazzled!
| Rank | Booking Site | Price Compared to Average | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1. Cheapest | Booking.com | -4% | |
| 2. Cheap | Hotels.com | -2% | |
| 3. Average | Expedia | -1% | |
| 4. More Expensive | Agoda | 1% | |
| 5. Most Expensive | Trip.com | 3% |
Old Quarter: This historic heart of Hanoi is a bustling hub of narrow streets filled with charming colonial architecture, street food stalls, and souvenir shops. Stay here for a vibrant, cultural experience.
French Quarter: Known for its elegant boulevards, French colonial architecture, and high-end shopping, it's an upscale contrast to the Old Quarter.
Tay Ho (West Lake): This expat-friendly neighborhood is the place to be if you're looking for tranquility, upmarket cafes, and stunning views of the largest lake in Hanoi.
Ba Dinh District: This is where you'll find the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, One Pillar Pagoda, and other historic sites. Perfect for those interested in Vietnam's history.
Hanoi Opera House Area: Close to both the Old and French Quarters, this area offers easy access to attractions and a range of accommodation options.
Hoan Kiem Lake and Ngoc Son Temple: Enjoy a peaceful stroll around the lake and visit the stunning temple located on a small island.
Temple of Literature: A tranquil oasis dating back to 1070, this is Vietnam's first national university and a beautiful example of traditional Vietnamese architecture.
Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum: A monumental marble edifice where the preserved body of Ho Chi Minh, the father of Modern Vietnam, lies in state.
Imperial Citadel of Thang Long: A UNESCO World Heritage Site with over 1000 years of history.
Hanoi Opera House: Inspired by the Paris Opera House, this century-old building is a beacon of colonial architecture.
Pho: This iconic Vietnamese soup with rice noodles, herbs, and either beef (pho bo) or chicken (pho ga) is a must-try.
Bun Cha: This Hanoi original features grilled pork and noodles, typically served with a side of fresh herbs and a savory-sweet dipping sauce.
Cha Ca La Vong: A distinctive Hanoi dish of turmeric-spiced fish fried tableside and served with a mountain of fresh herbs.
Banh Mi: This Vietnamese sandwich combines a crispy French baguette with a symphony of fillings like pâté, meats, pickled vegetables, and hot peppers.
Egg Coffee (Ca Phe Trung): A Hanoi specialty, this creamy, frothy drink is essentially a dessert in a cup.