Hanoi Travel Guide: Everything You Need to Know Before You Go

Hanoi is Vietnam's historic and vibrant capital, and it is known for the various rivers, lakes, and mountains that run beside and around it. Scattered around are tourist attractions that are very appealing because of the lush regions full of streams, rivers, and mountains, such as Tam Dao, Tam Coc, Son Tay, and so on. It has mostly recovered from decades of war destruction and is currently experiencing a development boom, making it a fast-expanding metropolis in Southeast Asia. Whether you are interested in history, culture, nature, or adventure, you will find something amazing in this beautiful city. In this Hanoi travel guide, we will provide you with everything you need to know before you go, including the weather, climate, rainfall of Hanoi, the best time to visit, the best activities for kids, the best tourist attractions, the top things to do, the best hotels, and more. Let's get started!

Weather, Climate, and Rainfall of Hanoi

Hanoi has a humid subtropical climate, with four distinct seasons: spring, summer, autumn, and winter. The average annual temperature in Hanoi is 23.6 °C (74.4 °F), but it can vary greatly depending on the season and the weather conditions. The sun shines quite rarely throughout the year, especially from January to April, when the sky is often cloudy and drizzle can occur.

The rainiest period is from June to September, due to the monsoon of Southeast Asia. The city is located in northern Vietnam, at 21 degrees north latitude, at the beginning of the Red River Delta and about 90 km (55 mi) from the coast of the Gulf of Tonkin.

Spring (March to April): In Hanoi, spring comes with gentle temperatures and a downshift in humidity. The city occasionally enjoys light showers during this time. The average temperature ranges from 18 °C (64 °F) to 24 °C (75 °F).

Summer (May to August): Hanoi's summer cranks up the heat and humidity, treating you to mercury readings north of 30°C (86°F). This season also brings its fair share of heavy rain and thunderstorms, all thanks to the East Asian monsoon. The average temperature ranges from 27 °C (81 °F) to 32 °C (90 °F).

Autumn (September to November): Hanoi's autumn steals the show as the most pleasant season. The temperature eases up a notch, and humidity takes a backseat. This is prime time for tourists, thanks to the agreeable weather and clear blue skies. The average temperature ranges from 22 °C (72 °F) to 28 °C (82 °F).

Winter (December to February): Winter in Hanoi spells out cooler and drier times. Thermometers can easily flirt with 10°C (50°F) or even lower, especially in January. While snow's an extreme rarity, a gentle frost might decide to make a cameo. The average temperature ranges from 14 °C (57 °F) to 20 °C (68 °F).

Hanoi welcomes an average of 1,610 mm (63.4 in) of rainfall each year, with more than half of it falling from June to September. The wettest month is August, with an average of 275 mm (10.8 in) of rain, while the driest month is December, with an average of 20 mm (0.8 in) of rain. Although precipitation in winter is weak, there are frequent drizzles that can make the air humid and cold.

Knowing the weather, climate, and rainfall of Hanoi can help you choose the best time to visit this amazing city and enjoy its attractions and activities.In general, the best time to visit Hanoi, as well as Vietnam in general, is from November to February, when the weather is dry and the temperature and humidity are much more comfortable than the rest of the year. However, you can also visit Hanoi in other seasons, as long as you are prepared for the possible weather changes and challenges

The table shows the average rainfall and temperature of Hanoi by month:

Best Time to Visit Hanoi

As we have seen in the previous section, Hanoi has four distinct seasons that offer different experiences and challenges for travelers. Depending on your preferences and budget, you can choose the best time to visit Hanoi that suits your needs and expectations.

If you want to enjoy pleasant weather and clear skies without too much rain or heat, then autumn (September to November) is your best bet. This is also the peak season for tourism in Hanoi, so you can expect to see more crowds and higher prices for accommodation and transportation. However, you will also get to witness the beauty of the city in full bloom, with colorful flowers and foliage, and celebrate some of the most important festivals and events, such as the Mid-Autumn Festival, the Hanoi Liberation Day, and the Vietnam Women's Day.

If you want to avoid the crowds and save some money on your trip, then winter (December to February) might be a good option for you. This is the low season for tourism in Hanoi, so you can enjoy more peace and quiet and lower rates for hotels and flights. However, you will also have to deal with colder and drier weather, which can be uncomfortable and inconvenient for some travelers. You will also need to pack warm clothes and layers, as the temperature can drop below 10°C (50°F) at night. On the bright side, you will also get to experience some of the most festive and joyful occasions in Hanoi, such as the Christmas, the New Year's Eve, and the Tet (Lunar New Year).

If you want to experience the hottest and wettest weather in Hanoi, then summer (May to August) is your choice. This is the off-season for tourism in Hanoi, so you can find some great deals and discounts for your travel expenses. However, you will also have to cope with high temperatures and humidity, which can make you sweat and dehydrate easily. You will also have to be prepared for heavy rain and thunderstorms, which can cause floods and traffic jams in some areas. You will need to pack light clothes, sunscreen, hats, umbrellas, raincoats, and insect repellents for your trip. On the plus side, you will also get to enjoy some of the most fun and exciting activities in Hanoi, such as water puppet shows, lotus festivals, dragon boat races, and night markets.

If you want to catch the transition between seasons in Hanoi, then spring (March to April) is your time. This is the shoulder season for tourism in Hanoi, so you can find a balance between crowds and prices for your travel arrangements. However, you will also have to face unpredictable weather changes, which can range from sunny and warm to cloudy and cool. You will need to pack versatile clothes and accessories that can adapt to different weather conditions. On the bright side, you will also get to see the city in a fresh and lively mood, with green trees and flowers, and celebrate some of the most meaningful and cultural events in Hanoi, such as the International Women's Day, the Perfume Pagoda Festival, the Hung Kings Temple Festival, and the Reunification Day.

Best Activities for Kids in Hanoi

Hanoi is a great destination for families with kids, as it offers a variety of activities that are fun, educational, and entertaining for both adults and children. Whether you are interested in history, culture, nature, or adventure, you will find something amazing in this beautiful city. Here are some of the best activities for kids in Hanoi that you can try:

• Watch a water puppet show at Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre. This is a special Vietnamese performance where puppets move on water, telling stories from Vietnam's past. It's fun for kids of all ages.
• Explore Hoan Kiem Lake, a beautiful and serene lake in the heart of Hanoi. You can swim, row boats, and feed turtles. There's even a small island with a temple dedicated to a legendary turtle that helped a Vietnamese king defeat the Chinese invaders.
• Discover different groups of people in Vietnam by visiting the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology. You can see their things like clothes, houses, tools, and music. There are cool things to do inside and outside the museum.
• See over 1,500 animals at Hanoi Zoo, including elephants, lions, and tigers. Kids can also touch some animals in the petting area.
• Learn to make Vietnamese food in cooking classes. It's a fun way to learn about Vietnam's culture and try something new in the kitchen.
• Visit the Temple of Literature, a very old temple that was once a university. Kids can learn about history and explore the temple area.
• Have a thrilling day with your kids at Ho Tay Water Park. There are different pools, slides, and games for everyone. You can relax or have a picnic too.
• Ride a cyclo around the Old Quarter, a bicycle taxi that can take you around the narrow streets and alleys of this historic area. You can admire the architecture, shop at the markets, taste the street food, or just soak up the atmosphere of this lively place.
• Visit the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and Museum, where you can pay respect to the founder and leader of modern Vietnam, Ho Chi Minh. You can see his preserved body and learn about his life. Kids will be fascinated by the life and legacy of Ho Chi Minh, the leader of the Vietnamese independence movement. The mausoleum is open from 7:30am to 10:30am daily, and the museum is open from 8am to 5pm daily.
• Explore nature and wildlife at Cuc Phuong National Park, one of Vietnam's oldest parks. You can hike, bike, or camp while seeing animals and beautiful landscapes.

Best Tourist Attractions in Hanoi

Some of the best tourist attractions in Hanoi are:

• Hoan Kiem Lake: This is a beautiful and serene lake in the heart of Hanoi, where you can enjoy a relaxing walk or a boat ride. The lake is also home to a small island with a temple dedicated to a legendary turtle that helped a Vietnamese king defeat the Chinese invaders.
• Hanoi Old Quarter: This is the ancient core of Hanoi, where you can explore the narrow alleys and streets that date back to 1,000 years ago. The old quarter is the commercial and cultural hub of the city, where you can find various shops, markets, cafes, restaurants, and historical buildings.
• Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre: This is one of the most unique and traditional forms of art in Vietnam, where puppets are controlled by hidden puppeteers under a water stage. The show tells stories of Vietnamese legends, myths, folklore, culture, etc., with music, sound effects, and colorful lights.
• Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and Museum: This is one of the most important and solemn places in Hanoi, where you can pay respect to the founder and leader of modern Vietnam, Ho Chi Minh. The mausoleum is where his embalmed body is displayed in a glass coffin, guarded by soldiers. The museum is where you can learn about his life, achievements, and legacy through photos, documents, artifacts, and exhibits.
• Temple of Literature: This is one of the oldest and most beautiful temples in Hanoi, which was built in 1070 as a Confucian academy and later became Vietnam's first university. The temple is a symbol of education and culture in Vietnam, where you can admire the architecture, gardens, statues, and stelae of scholars.
• Vietnam Museum of Ethnology: This is one of the most interesting and informative museums in Hanoi, where you can learn about the diverse ethnic groups of Vietnam through their artifacts, costumes, houses, tools, music, and more. The museum has both indoor and outdoor exhibits, as well as interactive activities and workshops for visitors.
• Hoa Lo Prison Museum: This is a former prison that was used by the French colonists to imprison Vietnamese revolutionaries and later by the North Vietnamese to detain American prisoners of war during the Vietnam War. The prison is now a museum that displays the history and conditions of life inside the prison.
• Hanoi Zoo: This is a large zoo that houses over 1,500 animals from different species, such as elephants, lions, tigers, monkeys, birds, reptiles, etc. The zoo also has a petting area where kids can touch some animals.
• Cuc Phuong National Park: Cuc Phuong National Park is about 120 km away from Hanoi to the southwest. It takes approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes to get from Hanoi to Cuc Phuong National Park by private car. This is one of the largest and oldest national parks in Vietnam, where you can enjoy the beauty and diversity of nature and wildlife. The park has various trails, caves, waterfalls, mountains, and forests that you can explore by hiking, biking, or camping. You can also visit the animal rescue centers, such as the Endangered Primate Rescue Center, the Turtle Conservation Center, and the Carnivore and Pangolin Conservation Program.

Top Things to Do in Hanoi

Hanoi is the capital of Vietnam and one of the most popular destinations in Southeast Asia. It is a city with a rich history, culture, and nature, offering a variety of experiences for travelers of all tastes and interests. Here are top 12 things to do in Hanoi:

• Explore Hoan Kiem Lake, a beautiful and serene lake in the heart of Hanoi, where you can enjoy a relaxing walk or a boat ride. The lake is also home to a small island with a temple dedicated to a legendary turtle that helped a Vietnamese king defeat the Chinese invaders.
• Dive into the Old Quarter, the ancient core of Hanoi, where you can explore the narrow alleys and streets that date back to 1,000 years ago. The old quarter is the commercial and cultural hub of the city, where you can find various shops, markets, cafes, restaurants, and historical buildings.
• Watch a water puppet show at Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre, one of the most unique and traditional forms of art in Vietnam, where puppets are controlled by hidden puppeteers under a water stage. The show tells stories of Vietnamese legends, myths, folklore, culture, etc., with music, sound effects, and colorful lights.
• Visit the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and Museum, where you can pay respect to the founder and leader of modern Vietnam, Ho Chi Minh. The mausoleum is where his embalmed body is displayed in a glass coffin, guarded by soldiers. The museum is where you can learn about his life, achievements, and legacy through photos, documents, artifacts, and exhibits.
• Visit the Temple of Literature, one of the oldest and most beautiful temples in Hanoi, which was built in 1070 as a Confucian academy and later became Vietnam's first university. The temple is a symbol of education and culture in Vietnam, where you can admire the architecture, gardens, statues, and stelae of scholars.
• Discover different groups of people in Vietnam by visiting the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology. You can see their things like clothes, houses, tools, and music. There are cool things to do inside and outside the museum.
• Visit Hoa Lo Prison, a former prison that was used by the French colonists to imprison Vietnamese revolutionaries and later by the North Vietnamese to detain American prisoners of war during the Vietnam War. The prison is now a museum that displays the history and conditions of life inside the prison.
• See over 1,500 animals at Hanoi Zoo, including elephants, lions, and tigers. Kids can also touch some animals in the petting area.
• Explore nature and wildlife at Cuc Phuong National Park, one of Vietnam's oldest parks. You can hike, bike, or camp while seeing animals and beautiful landscapes.
• Discover Hanoi's famous street food on a street food tour. Kids can try new foods and learn about Vietnamese culture.
• Enjoy the nightlife and entertainment at Ta Hien Street or Beer Street. This is where you can find many bars, pubs, clubs, and restaurants that cater to locals and tourists alike. You can drink cheap beer, listen to live music, watch street performances, or just mingle with the crowd.
• Learn about Vietnam's history and culture at the Imperial Citadel of Thang Long. This is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that was the political center of Vietnam for 13 centuries. You can see the remains of palaces, temples, gates, walls,

Best Hotels in Hanoi

As a travel consultant with 15 years of experience in Vietnam, I've seen my fair share of hotels. I've stayed in everything from budget hostels to luxury resorts, and I've learned a thing or two about what makes a great hotel.

When I'm recommending hotels to my clients, I look for a few key things: location, amenities, and reviews. I want my clients to be able to easily get around the city, enjoy the best of what Hanoi has to offer, and have a comfortable and relaxing stay.

With that in mind, here are my top recommendations for the best hotels in Hanoi:

3 star hotels

If you are looking for a budget-friendly and comfortable stay in Hanoi, you can choose from some of the best 3 star hotels in the city, such as:

Lotusama Hanoi Hotel: 

• Address: 35 P. Hàng Gà, Phố Cổ, Hoàn Kiếm, Hà Nội 10000, Vietnam
• Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
• Price: $40-$70 per night
• Amenities:
  • Free Wi-Fi
  • Swimming pool
  • Spa
  • Fitness center
  • Business center
  • Restaurant
  • Bar
• Reviews:
  • Guests praise the hotel's location, amenities, and service.
  • The hotel is located in a quiet area of Tay Ho, close to the West Lake.
  • The rooms are spacious and comfortable, with modern amenities.
  • The staff is friendly and helpful.

Hanoi Esplendor Hotel & Spa

• Address: 80 P. Hàng Gà, Hàng Bồ, Hoàn Kiếm, Hà Nội 10000, Vietnam
• Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
• Price: $45-$80 per night
• Amenities:
  • Free Wi-Fi
  • Swimming pool
  • Spa
  • Fitness center
  • Business center
  • Restaurant
  • Bar
• Reviews:
  • Guests praise the hotel's location, amenities, and service.
  • The hotel is located in the heart of Hoan Kiem District, close to the Hoan Kiem Lake and many other tourist attractions.
  • The rooms are luxurious and spacious, with stunning views of the city.
  • The staff is attentive and accommodating.

Hanoi Allure Hotel

• Address: 52 P. Đào Duy Từ, Hàng Buồm, Hoàn Kiếm, Hà Nội, Vietnam
• Rating: 4.0 out of 5 stars
• Price: $50-$100 per night
• Amenities:
  • Free Wi-Fi
  • Swimming pool
  • Fitness center
  • Restaurant
  • Bar
• Reviews:
  • Guests praise the hotel's location, amenities, and value for money.
  • The hotel is located in the heart of Hoan Kiem District, close to the Hoan Kiem Lake and many other tourist attractions.
  • The rooms are clean and comfortable, with modern amenities.
  • The staff is friendly and helpful.

4 star hotels

If you are looking for a more luxurious and elegant stay in Hanoi, you can choose from some of the best 4 star hotels in the city, such as:

Hanoi Tirant Hotel:

• Address: 38 P. Gia Ngư, Hàng Bạc, Hoàn Kiếm, Hà Nội, Vietnam
• Price: Starting from USD 100 per night
• Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
• Amenities: Wi-Fi, air conditioning, flat-screen TV, minibar, coffee maker, hair dryer, iron and ironing board, private bathroom
• Reviews: Guests praise the hotel's location, cleanliness, and service.

La Sinfonía del Rey Hotel & Spa

• Address: 33-35 P. Hàng Dầu, Lý Thái Tổ, Hoàn Kiếm, Hà Nội 10000, Vietnam
• Price: Starting from USD 60 per night
• Rating: 4.7 out of 5 stars
• Amenities: Wi-Fi, air conditioning, flat-screen TV, minibar, coffee maker, hair dryer, iron and ironing board, private bathroom, spa, fitness center, rooftop pool
• Reviews: Guests praise the hotel's luxurious accommodations, spa, and rooftop views.

La Sinfonía Majesty Hotel and Spa

• Address: 01B P. Cầu Gỗ, Hàng Bạc, Hoàn Kiếm, Hà Nội 100000, Vietnam
• Price: Starting from USD 70 per night
• Rating: 4.9 out of 5 stars
• Amenities: Wi-Fi, air conditioning, flat-screen TV, minibar, coffee maker, hair dryer, iron and ironing board, private bathroom, spa, fitness center, rooftop pool, business center
• Reviews: Guests praise the hotel's central location, luxurious accommodations, and attentive service.

La Siesta Premium Hang Be Hotel

• Address: No. 27A P. Hàng Bè, Phố cổ Hà Nội, Hoàn Kiếm, Hà Nội 10000, Vietnam
• Price: Starting from USD 100 per night
• Rating: 4.6 out of 5 stars
• Amenities: Wi-Fi, air conditioning, flat-screen TV, minibar, coffee maker, hair dryer, iron and ironing board, private bathroom, rooftop pool, restaurant, bar
• Reviews: Guests praise the hotel's location, cleanliness, and staff.

La Siesta Classic Ma May (Hanoi La Siesta Hotel & Spa)

• Address: 94 P. Mã Mây, Hàng Buồm, Hoàn Kiếm, Hà Nội, Vietnam
• Price: Starting from USD 60 per night
• Rating: 4.4 out of 5 stars
• Amenities: Wi-Fi, air conditioning, flat-screen TV, minibar, coffee maker, hair dryer, iron and ironing board, private bathroom, spa, fitness center, restaurant, bar
• Reviews: Guests praise the hotel's location, cleanliness, and value.

5 star and top luxury hotels

If you are looking for the ultimate and most exclusive stay in Hanoi, you can choose from some of the best 5 star and top luxury hotels in the city, such as:

• Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi: This hotel is located in the heart of Hanoi, just a short walk from the Hoan Kiem Lake and the Old Quarter. It is a historic hotel that has been welcoming guests for over 100 years. The hotel offers luxurious rooms, a rooftop pool, a spa, and several restaurants.
• Pan Pacific Hanoi: This hotel is located in the Tay Ho district, just a short drive from the West Lake. It is a modern hotel that offers stunning views of the lake. The hotel offers a variety of amenities, including a spa, a fitness center, and a business center.
• Apricot Hotel: This hotel is located in the Old Quarter. It is a boutique hotel that offers stylish rooms and a rooftop bar with stunning views of the city. The hotel also offers a spa and a fitness center.
• Peridot Grand Hotel & Spa: This hotel is located in the West Lake district. It is a luxury hotel that offers spacious rooms, a spa, and a fitness center. The hotel also has a private beach on the West Lake.

In conclusion, Hanoi is a city with something for everyone. Whether you're interested in history, culture, food, or just a good time, you're sure to find something to love in the Vietnamese capital. With a little planning, you can have a safe and enjoyable trip to Hanoi. By following the advice in this guide, you'll be well on your way to a memorable experience.

Last updated on 2024-01-24 01:53:39.