Flights from Europe to Hanoi (HAN)

Discover Hanoi

Discover Hanoi

Why visit Hanoi?
Hanoi is a captivating capital where tree lined boulevards, shimmering lakes, and timeworn temples sit alongside lively cafés and creative galleries. You feel a mix of old world charm and youthful energy as you move through its streets.

What to expect
You can wander the winding alleys of the Old Quarter, stroll around Hoan Kiem Lake, then cross into districts lined with French era villas and leafy parks. Scooters weave past street corners, while tranquil courtyards and lakeside paths offer a gentler pace nearby.

Plan your trip
Hanoi works well as both a short city break and the starting point for journeys across northern Vietnam, from Ha Long Bay to mountain towns. With strong flight links, it is an easy gateway for exploring the country and the wider region.

Top sights in Hanoi

Hoan Kiem Lake and Ngoc Son Temple

Circle the lake at dawn or dusk, then walk across the red bridge to Ngoc Son Temple for calm views back towards the city.

Hanoi Old Quarter

Explore narrow streets where traditional shophouses, cafés, and small boutiques reveal a different scene on every corner.

Temple of Literature

Step into Vietnam's historic centre of learning, with peaceful courtyards, ponds, and pavilions framed by old trees.

West Lake

Stroll or cycle around Hanoi's largest lake, dotted with waterside cafés, historic pagodas, and sunset viewpoints.

French Quarter

Wander broad boulevards lined with grand theatres, government buildings, and villas that reflect Hanoi's colonial past.

Hanoi's museums

Visit museums around the city to understand Vietnam's history, culture, and contemporary art in more depth.

Water puppet theatre

Watch a traditional water puppet performance, where colourful figures glide across a pool accompanied by live music.

Day trips to Ha Long Bay

Use Hanoi as your base for an organised day trip or overnight cruise among the limestone islands of Ha Long Bay.

Experience Hanoi's everyday rhythm

Getting around
You can move easily between key districts by taxi, ride hailing apps, or organised transfers, which are helpful for first time visitors. Short walks reveal hidden alleys and courtyards, while cyclos offer a leisurely way to see the Old Quarter at street level.

Local life & culture
Morning exercise by the lakes, pavement cafés full of low stools, and bustling wet markets show you everyday life unfolding in the open. Traditional shopfronts sit beside contemporary studios and bars, reflecting a city that honours its past while embracing new ideas.

Where to unwind
When you want a break from the traffic, head for lakeside paths, shaded temple grounds, or one of the city parks for a quiet stroll. Early mornings and late afternoons are the most pleasant times to be outdoors, when the light softens and temperatures ease.

A taste of Hanoi

Street food & local specialties
You can seek out steaming bowls of noodle soup, crisp savoury pancakes, and fresh herb laden salads at humble street stalls and family run shops. Certain streets are known for a single signature dish, making it easy to follow your nose and eat like a local.

Casual & modern dining hubs
Around the Old Quarter, West Lake, and newer business districts, you will find relaxed eateries and cafés serving Vietnamese favourites alongside Asian and Western options. Small sharing plates and light dishes mean you can sample several flavours in one sitting.

Signature & scenic dining
For a special evening, look for rooftop terraces and riverside venues that frame Hanoi's skyline or overlook lakes and historic streets. From these higher viewpoints, your meal comes with a shifting panorama of city lights and gentle reflections on the water.

Retail therapy in Hanoi

Malls & lifestyle hubs
Modern shopping centres around central districts and West Lake offer international fashion, lifestyle brands, and cinemas under one roof. They are useful when you want air conditioned comfort, easy dining options, and family friendly entertainment in the same place.

Markets & local crafts
Smaller markets and side streets in the Old Quarter are good for browsing silk, textiles, and handmade souvenirs, alongside everyday household stalls. Other neighbourhoods feature independent boutiques and craft shops where you can find locally designed clothing and décor.

Evening retail scene
After dark, certain lanes transform with brighter lights, food stalls, and late opening shops, giving you more time to browse at a relaxed pace. Many of these areas sit near central lakes and main roads, which you can reach quickly by taxi or ride hailing services.

Best time to visit Hanoi

From October to December, Hanoi enjoys cooler, drier weather with average temperatures around 20–24°C (68–75°F), making this the peak season for outdoor sightseeing.
From March to April, the shoulder season brings mild conditions of roughly 22–26°C (72–79°F), with blossoming trees and some light showers but generally comfortable exploring.
From May to September, the low season is warmer and more humid, with temperatures often between 28–32°C (82–90°F) and heavier showers, but quieter attractions and a softer, misty atmosphere.

Frequently Asked Questions