Flights from Beijing (BJS) to Hanoi (HAN)

About Hanoi

Discover Hanoi, a city of lakes and leafy streets

Hanoi is a city where tree-lined boulevards, tranquil lakes, and lively neighbourhoods sit side by side. Its compact Old Quarter is a maze of narrow streets, each traditionally linked to a different craft, creating an atmosphere that feels both historic and energetic. Around every corner you will find local cafes, family-run shops, and hidden courtyards that invite you to slow down and explore on foot.

Beyond the Old Quarter, graceful colonial buildings, scenic lakes, and modern developments show how the city has evolved over time. You can wander around Hoan Kiem Lake at dawn, watch the city come to life, then head to more contemporary districts for galleries, boutiques, and rooftop venues. Hanoi offers a blend of heritage and modern living that helps you experience Vietnam in a very personal way.

Top sights in Hanoi

Hoan Kiem Lake

Stroll the paths around this central lake, a calm pocket of green surrounded by lively streets, cafes, and city landmarks.

Old Quarter

Explore a network of historic streets filled with traditional shophouses, markets, and street-side dining spots.

French Quarter

Walk past grand boulevards and elegant buildings that showcase Hanoi's colonial-era architecture and cultural institutions.

West Lake

Relax by Hanoi's largest lake, known for scenic views, waterfront cafes, and a peaceful atmosphere away from the busy centre.

Long Bien Bridge

Take in expansive city and river views from this historic bridge, best visited in the early morning or late afternoon.

Experience Hanoi's rhythm and culture

You can get to know Hanoi by simply walking its streets. Join a guided walking tour of the Old Quarter to learn how each street developed its speciality, from textiles to metalwork, and see how these trades continue today. Early risers can head to the edge of Hoan Kiem Lake, where locals gather to exercise, chat, and enjoy the cool morning air.

To see more of the city, consider a cyclo or bicycle tour that passes through quieter backstreets, lakeside paths, and residential neighbourhoods. As evening falls, the atmosphere changes again, with pedestrianised zones, performances, and bustling night-time activity. If you have extra time, day trips to nearby countryside and craft villages add another layer to your understanding of the region around Hanoi.

A taste of Hanoi

Hanoi is known for its street food, with flavours that are fresh, balanced, and distinctive. You can start your day with a bowl of steaming noodle soup at a simple streetside stall, or sit on low stools in the Old Quarter sampling grilled dishes and snacks as the city wakes up around you.

Across the city you will also find contemporary cafes, bakeries, and restaurants that reinterpret local dishes in modern settings. Rooftop venues and lakeside restaurants provide another way to experience the city, pairing views with carefully prepared meals. Whether you prefer casual bites or a refined dining room, Hanoi offers many ways to explore its culinary traditions.

Retail discoveries in Hanoi

Shopping in Hanoi ranges from lively markets to small boutiques tucked into historic streets. In the Old Quarter, you can browse for textiles, handicrafts, and everyday items along the traditional guild streets, where certain blocks still specialise in particular goods.

More contemporary shopping experiences can be found in modern malls and design-focused stores, where local brands showcase clothing, accessories, and homeware. Smaller galleries also offer artworks, prints, and photography inspired by the city and its surroundings. Whether you are looking for a simple keepsake or a carefully crafted piece, Hanoi provides many options to find something meaningful to bring home.

Best time to visit Hanoi

Spring (March to April) brings mild temperatures of around 20–24°C (68–75°F), with comfortable humidity and blossoming trees across the city. It is a shoulder season, ideal for exploring on foot, enjoying lakeside walks, and experiencing Hanoi's outdoor cafes without intense heat.

Summer (May to August) is warm and humid, with temperatures typically between 28–33°C (82–91°F). This is the peak season, when the city feels lively and energetic, and longer daylight hours give you plenty of time to explore markets, parks, and nearby countryside.

Autumn and early winter (September to February) are generally cooler, with temperatures of about 15–22°C (59–72°F). This low season has a calmer feel, with misty mornings and pleasant conditions for slow walks, museum visits, and relaxed evenings in Hanoi's cafes and restaurants.

Frequently Asked Questions