Flights from Dhaka (DAC) to Hanoi (HAN)

About Hanoi

Discover Hanoi, a city of lakes and lively streets

Hanoi blends leafy boulevards, tranquil lakes, and narrow lanes filled with scooters and street vendors. The city feels both traditional and contemporary, with colonial-era buildings standing beside modern cafes and galleries. Around every corner you find a pocket of activity, from early-morning markets to evening food stalls.

Neighbourhoods like the Old Quarter, French Quarter, and West Lake each offer a different side of Hanoi, from bustling shopfronts to quieter residential streets. Around Hoan Kiem Lake, locals stroll, chat, and exercise, giving you a glimpse of everyday life in the Vietnamese capital.

Top sights in Hanoi

Hoan Kiem Lake and Old Quarter

Stroll around Hoan Kiem Lake before exploring the maze-like Old Quarter, packed with shophouses, cafes, and local eateries.

Temple of Literature

Visit this historic complex to admire its tranquil courtyards, traditional Vietnamese architecture, and long scholarly heritage.

Hoan Kiem pedestrian streets (weekends)

On weekend evenings, enjoy car-free streets around the lake with music, performances, and family-friendly games.

West Lake

Head to West Lake for lakeside cafes, sunset views, and a calmer atmosphere just a short ride from the Old Quarter.

Hanoi street markets

Browse local markets for fresh produce, clothing, and everyday essentials while soaking up the citys energetic pace.

Experience the rhythm of Hanoi

Join the city as it wakes up by visiting a morning market or taking a walk around Hoan Kiem Lake at dawn. You will see people practising gentle exercises, enjoying coffee by the pavement, and starting their day in a relaxed but lively way. Later, you can dive into the backstreets of the Old Quarter, where tiny shops, hidden courtyards, and small cafes invite you to pause and observe.

To see more of the city, consider a guided walking tour or a cycling trip that takes you through historic districts and along the Red River. In the evening, sample the atmosphere around Ta Hien and the surrounding streets, where low stools, bright lights, and chatter spill out onto the pavement. When you want a quieter moment, escape to green spaces and lakes around the city, where you can slow down and take in the scenery.

A taste of Hanoi

Hanois food scene is centred on fresh ingredients, clear broths, and bright flavours. Pavement-side stalls and small shophouse eateries specialise in just a few dishes, from steaming noodle soups to grilled meats and crisp salads. Eating here often means sitting on low stools, sharing tables, and enjoying quick, satisfying meals.

Beyond street food, you will find contemporary restaurants and cafes offering creative takes on local dishes and relaxed spaces for lingering over coffee. Iced coffee and egg coffee are staples of the city, and you can try them in everything from tiny alleyway spots to stylish modern cafes. As evening falls, many streets transform into open-air dining areas, giving you plenty of options for discovering your own favourite bowls and plates.

Retail therapy in Hanoi

Shopping in Hanoi ranges from narrow Old Quarter shopfronts to modern malls. In the older streets, you will find long-established family businesses selling textiles, clothing, lacquerware, and everyday items. Some streets traditionally focus on specific goods, making it easy to compare different shops offering similar products.

If you prefer a more contemporary experience, head to newer districts and shopping centres for international brands, lifestyle stores, and air-conditioned comfort. Smaller boutiques around West Lake and the French Quarter showcase local designers and homeware with a modern twist. Markets and night bazaars add to the mix, giving you more opportunities to pick up memorable pieces or simple mementos from your trip.

Best time to visit Hanoi

Spring in Hanoi (March to April) brings mild temperatures of around 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F) and light humidity, making it shoulder season. Blossoming trees and clearer skies create pleasant conditions for walking tours, lakeside strolls, and exploring outdoor markets.

Summer (May to August) is warm and humid, with temperatures typically between 27°C and 33°C (81°F to 91°F) and occasional showers, making it peak season. The longer daylight hours are ideal for day trips, while rain showers are often brief and refreshing.

Autumn and early winter (September to February) are generally cooler, from about 15°C to 22°C (59°F to 72°F), and form a low season. The air can feel crisp on some days, and the gentler sun is well suited to exploring museums, cafes, and the citys many tree-lined streets.

Frequently Asked Questions