Vietnam · City Guide
Hanoi
Hanoi is Vietnam's capital and one of Southeast Asia's most characterful and atmospheric cities, a French colonial port on the Red River with a beautiful Old Quarter of 36 ancient craft streets, outstanding street food culture, peaceful Hoan Kiem Lake and a depth of cultural heritage expressed through the Temple of Literature, the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and the vibrant daily life of a city that has maintained its character through extraordinary historical challenges.
Elect's take
"Hanoi is one of my favourite cities in Southeast Asia. The combination of the Old Quarter's extraordinary character, outstanding food, the beauty of Hoan Kiem Lake and the warmth of the Hanoians creates something that rewards every day of exploration."
The Old Quarter of Hanoi is one of the most atmospheric historic districts in Southeast Asia, 36 streets each traditionally specialising in a different trade — silk, tin, paper, herbs — concentrated into a beautiful urban grid of narrow houses, temples and street vendors. Hoan Kiem Lake at the heart of the city provides a beautiful morning walking destination with the Turtle Tower and Ngoc Son Temple providing iconic images. The street food here is extraordinary — bun cha, pho, banh mi, egg coffee and bia hoi draft beer all part of a food culture of remarkable variety. The Temple of Literature is Vietnam's finest example of traditional Vietnamese architecture. Ha Long Bay is approximately 4 hours by road.
Best time to visit
How to get there
What to expect
Old Quarter
36 ancient craft streets forming one of Southeast Asia's most atmospheric historic districts.
Hoan Kiem Lake
Hanoi's iconic lake with the beautiful Ngoc Son Temple on a small island.
Hanoi Street Food
Outstanding bun cha, pho, banh mi and egg coffee in one of Asia's great food cities.
Temple of Literature
Vietnam's finest example of traditional architecture and its first university.
Ho Chi Minh Complex
The mausoleum, stilt house and museum dedicated to Vietnam's founding leader.
Ha Long Bay Access
One of the world's most spectacular natural landscapes approximately 4 hours east.
