Where to stay in Hanoi

Hanoi, Vietnam's capital, is a city of lakes, tree-lined boulevards, temples and some of the best street food in South East Asia. Its historic heart is the Old Quarter, a maze of narrow streets, many once named after the goods traded there, just north of Hoan Kiem Lake.

Most visitors stay in or near the Old Quarter, from where the lake, the cathedral, the water puppet theatre and countless food stalls are all a short walk away. It's also the starting point for trips to Ha Long Bay and Ninh Binh.

Airport
Noi Bai International (HAN), north of the city
Airport to Old Quarter
Often around 45 minutes to an hour by car, depending on traffic
Getting around
Walking, Grab, taxis and cyclos in the centre
Best for
Street food, culture, history and day trips

Places to stay in Hanoi

8 hotels

"Our order" puts hotels we have fully written up first. Commission doesn't affect the order.

Hanoi, area by area

For a first visit, stay close to Hoan Kiem Lake; the airport area is useful for late arrivals and early flights.

The Old Quarter and Hoan Kiem Lake

Best for first visits, food and sightseeing

The Old Quarter is crowded, noisy and endlessly interesting: street-food stalls, cafés, shops, temples and the Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre are all close together. Hoan Kiem Lake is on its southern edge, and St Joseph's Cathedral sits just west of the lake. Streets around the lake become a pedestrian zone on some weekend evenings.

Near Noi Bai airport

Best for transit stays

Hotels close to Noi Bai airport are a practical choice for a late arrival or an early flight. They're quiet and far from the centre, so they're not a base for sightseeing.

Getting to and around Hanoi

Noi Bai International Airport has flights across Asia and beyond. Taxis, Grab and airport buses run into the centre, usually taking around 45 minutes to an hour. Hanoi is also the northern end of the main railway line to Hue, Da Nang and Ho Chi Minh City.

In the Old Quarter it's easiest to walk, though crossing the road takes practice: move slowly and steadily. Grab cars and motorbikes are cheap for longer trips.

Things to do

Walk around Hoan Kiem Lake to the red Huc Bridge and Ngoc Son Temple, catch a water puppet show, and visit the Temple of Literature, the city's first university. The French Quarter, south of the lake, has the Opera House and grand colonial buildings, while West Lake is good for a slower afternoon.

Food is a highlight: try pho, bun cha and egg coffee, ideally on a street-food tour. Popular day and overnight trips include Ha Long Bay and the limestone scenery around Ninh Binh.

When to go

Autumn, from around September to November, is usually the most pleasant time, with mild days and less rain. Winters are cool and often grey, and summers are hot, humid and stormy.

Questions about staying in Hanoi

Where should I stay in Hanoi?

In or near the Old Quarter, close to Hoan Kiem Lake, for a first visit. Stay near Noi Bai airport only for a short transit stop.

How long does it take from the airport to the Old Quarter?

Often around 45 minutes to an hour by car, depending on traffic.

Is the Old Quarter noisy?

It can be, with traffic and late-night street life. Rooms at the back or on higher floors are usually quieter.

Can I visit Ha Long Bay from Hanoi?

Yes, as a long day trip or, better, an overnight cruise. The drive takes a few hours each way.

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