Hanoi travel guide
Hanoi, Vietnam's capital, combines a buzzing Old Quarter, lakes, French colonial architecture and outstanding street food, and is the base for trips to Ha Long Bay and Ninh Binh.
Best time to visit Hanoi
October to December and March to April are the most comfortable months, with mild temperatures.
Summer (May to September) is hot, humid and rainy; winter (January to February) can be cool and grey.
Getting to Hanoi
Noi Bai International Airport (HAN) is about 45 minutes from the Old Quarter. Flights from the US connect via Asian hubs such as Tokyo, Seoul, Taipei or Hong Kong.
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Getting around
Ride-hailing
Grab cars and motorbike taxis are the easiest way to get around.
On foot
The Old Quarter and Hoan Kiem Lake area are walkable; cross streets slowly and steadily through the traffic.
Top things to do in Hanoi
1. Old Quarter and Hoan Kiem Lake
Narrow streets named after their old trades, street food and the lake's red bridge to Ngoc Son Temple.
See tours & prices ›2. Ha Long Bay cruise
Day trips or overnight cruises among thousands of limestone islands, a UNESCO site.
See tours & prices ›4. Temple of Literature and Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum
Vietnam's first university, from 1070, and the Ba Dinh square complex.
See tours & prices ›Practical tips
- US citizens need a visa; Vietnam's e-visa can be applied for on the official government portal.
- Drink bottled or filtered water.
- Agree prices before services where there is no menu or meter.
Hanoi travel FAQ
When is the best time to visit Hanoi?
October to December and March to April.
How do you get from Hanoi to Ha Long Bay?
By tour shuttle, private car or bus, about 2.5 to 3 hours on the expressway.
How many days do you need in Hanoi?
Two to three days for the city, plus one to two for Ha Long Bay and Ninh Binh.