Hanoi holidays

How to reach Hanoi

Flight time:

• Direct flights to Hanoi from London take 11 to 12 hours.

• Alternative routes from other UK airports will stop at hubs such as Dubai, Doha or Singapore, taking 15 to 17 hours.

Transfer time:

• Once you land at Noi Bai International Airport, it takes 45 minutes to an hour to get into Hanoi city centre by taxi, Grab and Gojek ride-hailing services or bus.

Price:

• Regular buses (like the No. 86) cost around VND45,000 (£1.40) to the city centre.

• Taxis are pricier, costing anywhere from VND325,000–VND460,000 (£10–£14) for a one-way trip.

• Be aware of possible scams and try to use official taxis or pre-book with Grab/Gojek or through your hotel for reliable options.

Weather and best time to visit Hanoi

Hanoi has a tropical monsoon climate, dominated by the south or southwesterly monsoon in summer and the northeast monsoon through winter. The seasons offer their own distinct weather. So here’s what you can expect at different times on holidays to Hanoi:

October to December

• One of the best times to visit, with warm sunny days and cooler nights.

• Temperatures range from 18 to 24°C and there’s less rainfall, so you’re less likely to get caught in a tropical downpour.

• Humidity is lower, making it more pleasant to be outdoors.

January to March

• Can be a little grey and misty, with temperatures dropping to 10 or 15°C at night.

• During this time, you’ll see fewer crowds but also fewer sunny days.

• Humidity levels can be high, so you might experience some drizzle.

April to June

• Sees warmer weather, as temperatures climb from 20 to 30°C.

• Expect hot, sunny days and the occasional rain shower.

• This is a beautiful time of year with lots of greenery and blooming flowers.

July to September

• Brings the sweltering summer heat and monsoon season.

• Average daily temperatures hit 32°C, with up to 350mm of monthly rainfall.

• If you don’t mind the heat and sudden downpours, it can be a good time to grab a bargain on accommodation.

Practical information

• Spoken languages: Vietnamese is the official language, but English is widely spoken in tourist areas. Many signs are also in English, so navigating the city won’t be too challenging.

• Local habits and customs: The Vietnamese are conservative but tolerant. Modesty is appreciated, especially in rural areas and when visiting temples or pagodas.

• Currency: Vietnam’s official currency is the dong (VND). ATMs are widespread throughout Hanoi, and debit or credit cards are accepted in most mid- to high-end hotels, restaurants and shops.

• Getting around: The best way to explore the city centre is on foot, supplemented by motorbike taxis and cyclos. For longer journeys, taxis or Grab rides are convenient. The BRT bus system has some useful routes and is very cheap and Hanoi’s new metro already has two lines operational.

• Electricity and plug types: Vietnam’s electricity is 220V, mostly with standard European-style two round-pin plugs. UK travellers will need an adaptor.

• Time zone: Vietnam is 7 hours ahead of GMT.

Best things to do in Hanoi

The charismatic capital of Vietnam, Hanoi is a captivating mix of old and new, offering everything from ancient temples to colonial architecture and modern skyscrapers. The city’s vibrant life is at its best in the historic Old Quarter with its bustling markets and lively street food scene. Here’s a breakdown of the best things to do in the city:

Best districts

• Old Quarter: This historic district is a maze of narrow streets where you’ll find everything from traditional markets and shops to tiny cafés and restaurants. It’s the perfect place to get lost for a few hours, sample Hanoi’s famous street food, or pick up souvenirs.

• French Quarter: South of Hoan Kiem Lake, this district showcases wide, tree-lined boulevards and elegant French colonial buildings. One highlight is the Hanoi Opera House, an architectural masterpiece where you can catch a show or simply admire the stunning exterior.

• Ba Dinh: The city’s most important cultural and historical monuments are in Ba Dinh, a quieter area compared to the Old Quarter but just as fascinating for history buffs. The former grounds of the Presidential Palace are now home to the impressive Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and the One Pillar Pagoda.

Historical monuments

• Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum: A must-see when in Hanoi, this imposing structure houses the embalmed body of Ho Chi Minh, a key figure in Vietnam’s fight for independence. Be sure to check opening hours before going, as the mausoleum closes for maintenance during certain periods.

• Temple of Literature: Built in 1070, the Temple of Literature in this Confucian temple complex was Vietnam’s first national university and remains a symbol of knowledge and culture. The peaceful courtyards and gardens now offer a tranquil retreat from the busy streets outside.

• Hoa Lo Prison: Often referred to as the "Hanoi Hilton" by American prisoners of war, this former prison now serves as a museum. It offers an eye-opening look into the harsh realities of life during French colonial rule and the Vietnam War.

Day trips in the area

• Perfume Pagoda: One of Vietnam’s most popular pilgrim destinations, this network of temples is built into the limestone cliffs around 60km from Hanoi. Visitors can take a scenic boat ride down the Yen River before hiking up to the temples.

• Bat Trang: Just 16km from Hanoi, the village of Bat Trang is famous for its pottery and ceramics, with thousands of kilns. You can watch the artisans at work and even try your hand at creating your own piece.

Activities for families in Hanoi

Holidays to Hanoi with the family can be both fun and educational. The city offers a variety of activities to keep children entertained while giving them a chance to learn about Vietnamese culture.

• Parks and gardens: Hoan Kiem Lake offers a peaceful retreat in the heart of the city, where locals gather to exercise, relax and socialise. There’s also the nearby Lenin Park, where kids can run around and burn off energy.

• Museums: The Vietnamese Women’s Museum and the Museum of Ethnology are some of the city’s most interesting attractions. With fascinating exhibits and interactive displays, children can learn about the country’s diverse cultures while enjoying hands-on experiences.

• Water puppet shows: This unique art form dates back to the 11th century, and is a delightful way to experience Vietnamese culture for children and adults alike. The Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre, near Hoan Kiem Lake, offers regular performances showcasing local myths and legends.

Free things to do in Hanoi

There are several ways to experience Hanoi’s rich history and culture without spending a penny, including on guided walking tours and visiting the city’s many religious sites.

• Temples and pagodas: Many of Hanoi’s temples, like the iconic One Pillar Pagoda and the Tran Quoc Pagoda, are free to visit. They offer a peaceful atmosphere and a glimpse into the city’s spiritual life.

• Free guided tours: Hanoi Free Walking Tours are an excellent way to explore the city with the help of local students keen to practise their English. These tours cover everything from the Old Quarter’s history to its famous street food.

Local dishes in Hanoi

Hanoi’s cuisine reflects Vietnam's varied culture, with a mix of traditional food from hawkers and street kitchens, proper sit-down restaurants serving Vietnamese specialities, and the influence of French colonial flavours and cafés. Here are some dishes and drinks to try during your Hanoi holidays.

Some typical dishes

• Pho: Hanoi is the birthplace of this world-famous noodle soup, which consists of flat rice noodles in a beef broth flavoured with ginger and coriander. It’s served at any time of day but is typically enjoyed for breakfast.

• Bun cha: Another local favourite, this dish features grilled pork patties served with cold rice noodles, fresh herbs and a dipping sauce.

• Cha ca: A traditional dish from Hanoi of grilled fish with rice noodles, peanuts and herbs. The most famous version comes from the restaurant Cha Ca La Vong.

• Xoi: Sticky rice topped with a variety of savoury ingredients such as shredded chicken, beans, fried onions, sweetcorn or peanuts. It’s a popular snack sold by hawkers or street stalls across the city.

Street food

• Banh mi: Vietnam’s take on the French baguette sandwich, filled with meat, pâté, omelette, pickled vegetables and herbs.

• Nem: Crispy fried spring rolls filled with minced pork, vegetables and noodles comprise this classic Vietnamese snack, often served with dipping sauce.

• Bun bo nam bo: A delicious dish of rice noodles served with lean beef, beansprouts, peanuts and herbs, and a popular choice for a quick street meal.

Sweets and desserts

• Che: A sweet pudding made with ingredients like coconut milk, beans, fruit and jelly served on ice, it’s a favourite hot-weather snack from street vendors.

• Ice cream: Hanoi’s incredibly popular ice cream shop, Kem Trang Tien, serves unique local flavours such as taro, durian and coconut milk and is a great spot to cool off on a day out exploring.

Local drinks

• Egg coffee (cà phê trứng): A Hanoi speciality, this rich drink is made by whipping egg yolk with sugar and combining it with strong Vietnamese coffee. It’s served hot or cold and is a must-try while in the city.

• Bia hoi: Known as “fresh beer,” bia hoi is brewed daily and served at street-side stalls for a fraction of the price of bottled beer. Enjoying a glass or two with bar snacks at one of the many bia hoi joints around the Old Quarter is a quintessential Hanoi experience.