Flights from Amsterdam (AMS) to Hanoi (HAN)

About Hanoi

Discover Hanoi

Why visit Hanoi?
Hanoi blends leafy boulevards, lakes, and atmospheric alleyways with a creative, fast-moving urban energy. You will find centuries-old architecture sitting beside modern cafés, and a street life that feels vibrant from early morning until late at night.

What to expect
The city centres on Hoan Kiem Lake and the Old Quarter, where narrow streets are lined with shophouses, boutiques, and small hotels. French-era villas, lakeside parks, and a growing arts and café scene give Hanoi a relaxed yet dynamic feel as you explore different neighbourhoods.

Plan your trip
Hanoi is a natural starting point for journeys across northern Vietnam, from karst seascapes to terraced hills. With good road and air links, it works well as both a short city break and a gateway to destinations such as Ha Long Bay, Ninh Binh, and the northern highlands.

Top sights in Hanoi

Hoan Kiem Lake

Stroll around this central lake, a favourite local spot for morning exercise, evening walks, and people-watching.

Old Quarter

Wander through a maze of narrow streets packed with shophouses, cafés, and small stores, each lane known for its traditional trades.

French Quarter

Admire grand boulevards and colonial-era buildings, with leafy pavements that offer a calmer contrast to the Old Quarter.

West Lake

Head to Hanoi’s largest lake for waterfront cafés, breezy promenades, and sunset views over the water.

Hoa Lo Prison Relic

Visit this historic site to understand more about Hanoi’s past through carefully curated exhibits and preserved cells.

Hanoi Opera House

See the impressive façade of this early 20th-century theatre and, if time allows, enjoy a performance inside its grand interior.

Train Street (viewing spots)

From permitted viewing areas, watch trains pass close by homes and cafés along this remarkable inner-city railway line.

Dong Xuan Market area

Explore the busy market surroundings for textiles, everyday goods, and a glimpse of local trading life.

Experience Hanoi’s everyday rhythm

Getting around
Many key sights cluster around Hoan Kiem Lake, making it easy to explore on foot. For longer journeys, taxis and ride-hailing services are widely available, while cyclos offer a slower, scenic ride through old streets. Keep a hotel card handy to show drivers your return address.

Local life & culture
Sidewalks in Hanoi are social spaces where residents chat, sip drinks, and go about daily business. You will notice a strong café culture, with small stools spilling onto pavements and creative studios tucked above shops. Each neighbourhood has its own pace, from lively Old Quarter lanes to quieter lakeside streets.

Where to unwind
Lakes are at the heart of relaxation in Hanoi, especially around Hoan Kiem Lake and West Lake. Early mornings are ideal for cool-weather walks, while late afternoons bring softer light over the water. Tree-lined parks and shaded boulevards provide welcome breaks between sightseeing stops.

A taste of Hanoi

Street food & local specialties
Hanoi is known for steaming bowls of noodle soups, fresh herbs, and dishes served from small streetfront kitchens. The Old Quarter and around Hoan Kiem Lake are filled with casual spots where you can sit on low stools and enjoy freshly prepared local favourites.

Casual & modern dining hubs
You will find relaxed eateries and cafés throughout the central districts, from renovated shophouses to contemporary dining streets. Many venues offer a mix of Vietnamese and international flavours, with smaller portions that make it easy to sample several dishes while sharing with friends.

Signature & scenic dining
For a special evening, head to restaurants overlooking lakes, rooftops with city views, or heritage buildings with quiet courtyards. These settings pair thoughtful menus with a memorable sense of place, whether you prefer a refined dinner or a relaxed drink as the city lights come on.

Retail therapy in Hanoi

Malls & lifestyle hubs
Modern shopping centres in Hanoi bring together international brands, local labels, and entertainment under one roof. These air-conditioned spaces offer a comfortable break from the heat, with cafés and cinemas that make them popular meeting places for families and friends.

Markets & local crafts
For a more traditional atmosphere, explore markets and side streets around the Old Quarter, Dong Xuan Market area, and the streets south of Hoan Kiem Lake. Here you can browse clothing, textiles, and everyday items alongside smaller boutiques selling crafts, accessories, and homeware.

Evening retail scene
After dark, central streets stay busy as shops extend their hours and pavements fill with browsers and diners. Weekend pedestrian zones around Hoan Kiem Lake often feel especially lively, combining street performers with casual shopping. Central locations mean you can usually reach these areas easily by taxi or ride-hailing services.

Best time to visit Hanoi

Spring (Mùa xuân, February to April, shoulder season)
Spring in Hanoi is mild, with average temperatures around 20°C to 24°C (68°F to 75°F) and light humidity. Mornings can be misty, giving the lakes a gentle atmosphere, and it is a pleasant time for walking tours and city exploration.

Summer (Mùa hè, May to August, peak season)
Summer brings warm, humid weather, with temperatures often between 28°C and 33°C (82°F to 91°F). Brief showers are common, but they refresh the air and clear the streets. Longer daylight hours suit day trips from the city and evening strolls once it cools.

Autumn and winter (Mùa thu and Mùa đông, September to January, low season)
Autumn and winter are cooler, with typical temperatures from 16°C to 23°C (61°F to 73°F). Some days feel overcast, yet the softer light suits photography, and cooler evenings are comfortable for walking. It is a calm time to enjoy museums, cafés, and lakeside parks.

Frequently Asked Questions