🏯 HA NOI CITY

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3:23 pm, Apr 26, 2025
temperature icon 28°C
broken clouds
Humidity Humidity: 71 %
Pressure Pressure: 1009 mb
Wind Wind: 9 mph
Wind Gust Wind Gust: 11 mph
Clouds Clouds: 84%
Visibility Visibility: 10 km
Sunrise Sunrise: 5:29 am
Sunset Sunset: 6:19 pm

OVERVIEW OF HANOI 

Welcome to Hanoi, the charming capital of Vietnam and one of the most fascinating destinations in Southeast Asia. With a rich history dating back over 1,000 years, Hanoi is a unique blend of ancient culture, French colonial influences, vibrant street life, and mouthwatering food.

Located in the northern region of Vietnam, Hanoi sits peacefully on the banks of the Red River. It is home to over 8 million people but still retains a surprisingly calm and walkable feel in many of its neighborhoods.

Whether you’re wandering the narrow alleys of the Old Quarter, sipping egg coffee by Hoan Kiem Lake, or exploring historical landmarks like the Temple of Literature and Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, Hanoi offers a perfect mix of tradition and modernity.

TOP ATTRACTIONS

Emple of Literature – Imperial Academy

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Hoan Kiem Lake

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Ta Hien Street – Beer Street

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Hoa Lo Prison

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USEFUL INFORMATION

Traveling to a new country can be exciting — and a bit overwhelming. Here’s everything you need to know to make your time in Hanoi easier, safer, and more enjoyable.

💰 Currency

  • Official currency: Vietnamese Dong (VND)
  • Most local shops and street food vendors only accept cash
  • Credit cards accepted in larger hotels, malls, and some restaurants
  • ATMs are widely available in tourist areas

📶 SIM & Internet

  • SIM cards available at Noi Bai Airport, convenience stores, or mobile shops
  • Top providers: Viettel, Mobifone, Vinaphone
  • 4G/5G coverage is strong in Hanoi; plans are cheap
  • Free Wi-Fi available in most cafes, hotels, and restaurants

🚕 Getting around

  • Use ride-hailing apps like Grab, Xanhsm, Be to get around
  • Walking is the best way to explore the Old Quarter
  • There are electric buses and public buses, but signs are in Vietnamese
  • Be careful with taxi meters

🙏 Local Etiquette

  • Remove shoes when entering homes or temples
  • Dress modestly at religious sites (shoulders and knees covered)
  • Avoid loud talking in sacred places
  • Smiling and polite gestures go a long way in Vietnam

LOCAL CUISINE – WHAT TO EAT IN HANOI

If you travel to Hanoi and don’t eat like a local, you’re missing half the experience. Hanoi is a street food paradise — simple, flavorful, and full of character. Here, meals are not just about eating, but also about slurping, sharing, and sitting on plastic stools with locals.

🍲 Phở (Vietnamese Noodle Soup)

🍖 Bún Chả (Grilled Pork with Vermicelli)

🥖 Bánh Mì (Vietnamese Baguette Sandwich)

🥚 Cà Phê Trứng (Egg Coffee)

🥢 Bún Thang, Chả Cá, Nem Rán…
(Chicken Vermicelli Soup, Grilled Fish with Dill, Fried Spring Rolls)

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🍽️ Tap here to discover the best local food spots — with videos, maps, and traveler-friendly info.

 TRAVEL ITINERARY

Planning your time in Hanoi can be overwhelming — the city is full of history, culture, amazing food, and endless alleyways to explore. To make your trip easier, we’ve created 3 recommended itineraries that suit different schedules and travel styles. Whether you only have a day or you’re staying for a long weekend, you’ll find something here that fits perfectly.

1 Day In Hanoi

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2 Day In Hanoi

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3 Day In Hanoi

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REAL IMAGES

When is the best time to visit Hanoi?

The most pleasant time is from October to April, when the weather is cooler and drier. From May to August, it’s hot and humid, with afternoon showers. Winter (December–February) can be chilly, especially in the mornings.

Yes, Hanoi is generally safe. Petty theft is rare but still possible, so keep your valuables close in crowded areas. Locals are friendly and helpful — don’t hesitate to ask for directions.

You’ll need cash (Vietnamese Dong) for most street food, local shops, and taxis. Credit cards are accepted in big hotels and restaurants, but always ask first. ATMs are easy to find.

The easiest way to get around is to walk, use Grab or rent a motorbike. The Old Quarter is best explored on foot, be careful when taking a taxi as the meter is charged, or ask for the price first, it is best to use a ride-hailing app like Grap, or be, Vietnam’s xanhsm app

Absolutely — street food is a must-try! Look for stalls that are busy with locals, where the food is cooked fresh. If it smells good and looks clean, it’s probably delicious and safe.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can’t find what you’re looking for? Visit our full FAQ section for detailed answers.

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