A guide to Hanoi, Vietnam
Hanoi, Vietnam is a sensory experience with incredible food, vibrant bustling streets and a unique history.
What to do:
Cafe hopping
Sit at one of the many street side cafes siping on a famed Vietnamese iced coffee with a french pastry while watching the city buzz around you.
Our favourite was The Little Plan Cafe. Step back into Hanoi’s past ( best coconut iced coffees). You can also find one of the many Cong Caphe’s around town. If you are after some french colonial vibes head to Cafe La Terrasse or Trill Bistro Cafe.
Hoàn Kiếm Lake
Take a stroll around the beautiful Hoàn Kiếm Lake in the heart of the city. On the weekends the roads around the lake are closed & the streets turn into a meeting point for artists, families and students that continues on into the late night. For a real festival community vibe this is one not to miss.
Train street
One of Hanoi’s most unique sights is its famous Train Street located in Old Hanoi quarter at Le Duan and Kham Tien street. Where the main train line to Hanoi’s central station passes through a narrow strip of residential buildings. The train passes through at 3:30pm and 7:30pm daily and can get busy with tourists trying to take a snap so get there early and you can even have a coffee right on the tracks from one of the local cafes, just keep an eye on the time.
Explore Old Hanoi Quarter with its unique blend of French colonial and Oriental architecture, colourful buildings and street stores.
Where to eat:
Street food
Take a self guided or organised street food tour and experience the best of Hanoian street cuisine. The Friday night street markets in Hàng Đào St are also a great option for street food.
A must try in Vietnam is the famous Bahn Mi (Vietnamese salad and pork or chicken roll) head to Bahn Mi 25 at 25 Hàng Cá st for one of the best.
If street food isn’t your thing then there are countless great restaurants to choose from for all budgets offering traditional Vietnamese dishes to high end classic French or fusion restaurants.
A great option if you want to try a variety of Vietnamese dishes is Nhà Hàng Ngon restaurant. My favourite was the Bun Cha noodles or the classic Pho.
If you’re after a great beer to quench your thirst after a day exploring the city. Head over to Pasteur Street Brewing Co for the best craft beer in Hanoi and some great food too.
Where to stay:
The best area to stay in Hanoi is around Hoàn Kiếm Lake where most of the big hotels restaurants and sights are located.
There are lots of great value Airbnb’s in Hanoi, from beautiful french colonial apartments to modern stylish urban escapes we stayed here for a few nights before heading to the Metropole Hanoi.
If you’re after an escape from the hustle and bustle of Hanoi streets then treat yourself to some French colonial luxury. The Sofitel Legend Metropole with its beautiful grand architecture, central courtyard pool and lush tropical grounds will offer that peace. Located right in the heart of the city this is your best best! Try their famous egg coffee at Parisian inspired corner Cafe La Terrasse. Indulge in some French sweets at L’epicerie du Metropole or sip on a cocktail by the pool at the Bamboo bar.
While you are in Vietnam you might want to visit Hoi An
