Flights from Brussels (BRU) to Hanoi (HAN)

About Hanoi

Discover Hanoi

Why visit Hanoi?
Hanoi blends tree-lined boulevards, shaded lakes, and lively streets into a city that feels both historic and modern. You will find French-era architecture beside narrow shophouses, and a relaxed pace that contrasts with its busy traffic.

What to expect
The compact Old Quarter, the wider avenues around Hoan Kiem Lake, and the elegant French Quarter each offer a distinct feel. Scooters weave through the streets, small cafés spill onto pavements, and there is always something happening at ground level.

Plan your trip
Hanoi works well as both a city break and a gateway to northern Vietnam. From here you can continue to the mountains around Sapa, the karst landscapes of Ha Long Bay, and quieter rural areas, while still enjoying the convenience of a major capital city.

Top sights in Hanoi

Hoan Kiem Lake

Stroll around this central lake in the early morning or evening to see local life, street performances, and soft city lights reflected on the water.

Old Quarter

Wander through narrow streets lined with shophouses, boutiques, and cafés, each street historically linked to a particular craft or trade.

French Quarter

Admire wide boulevards, grand colonial buildings, and shaded squares that give this central district a spacious, elegant character.

West Lake

Head to this expansive lake in the northwest of the city for relaxed promenades, waterfront cafés, and sunset views over the water.

Vietnam Museum of Ethnology

Explore exhibitions and full-scale traditional houses that offer insight into the country’s diverse cultures and ways of life.

Long Bien Bridge

Walk part of this historic iron bridge for sweeping views of the Red River, railway tracks, and surrounding neighbourhoods.

Train Street area

Visit the streets that run close to the railway line, where daily life unfolds just steps from the tracks in a unique urban setting.

Waterfront of the Red River

Escape the busy streets with a walk or cycle along the riverside paths, spotting small gardens and views back towards the skyline.

Experience Hanoi's everyday rhythm

Getting around
Central Hanoi is easy to explore on foot, especially around Hoan Kiem Lake and the Old Quarter. For longer distances, you can use taxis, ride-hailing services, or local buses, and consider a cyclo ride for a slower look at the streets. Many hotels can help you arrange trusted transport.

Local life & culture
Sidewalks double as living rooms, with people gathering on small stools to talk, read, or enjoy a drink. Early mornings are active with walkers and group exercises in parks, while evenings bring families and friends outdoors. Different neighbourhoods have their own rhythm, from quiet residential streets to lively café districts.

Where to unwind
Parks and lakes provide natural pockets of calm across the city. Hoan Kiem Lake and West Lake are popular for gentle walks and jogs, especially at sunrise and around sunset when the light is soft and temperatures are more pleasant. Smaller local parks also offer shaded benches for a quick break between sights.

A taste of Hanoi

Street food & local specialties
Hanoi is known for fragrant noodle soups, grilled dishes, and fresh herbs served at simple street stalls and casual eateries. The Old Quarter, around Hoan Kiem Lake, and busy local streets are ideal areas to sample these flavours and watch cooks prepare dishes in front of you.

Casual & modern dining hubs
You will find relaxed cafés, contemporary restaurants, and international options in central districts and within modern shopping centres. These areas make it easy to mix local dishes with familiar favourites, and smaller portions often encourage you to try several plates during one meal.

Signature & scenic dining
For a special evening, choose a restaurant with views over city rooftops, lakeside terraces around West Lake, or stylish venues in the French Quarter. Many places offer carefully presented menus and comfortable interiors, creating a memorable setting to reflect on your day in Hanoi.

Retail therapy in Hanoi

Malls & lifestyle hubs
Modern malls around central Hanoi bring together international brands, local labels, cinemas, and family-friendly entertainment under one roof. They are convenient places to combine shopping with dining and offer a comfortable, air-conditioned break from the busy streets.

Markets & local crafts
Smaller streets in the Old Quarter showcase textiles, homeware, and handicrafts, while other neighbourhoods feature boutiques with contemporary Vietnamese design. Areas near Hoan Kiem Lake and the French Quarter are also good for finding fashion, accessories, and simple souvenirs.

Evening retail scene
After dark, shopfronts stay open and certain streets become livelier with extra stalls and bright signage. Weekends can feel particularly vibrant around central walking streets. Public transport, taxis, and ride-hailing services make it straightforward to reach these shopping areas in the evening.

Best time to visit Hanoi

Spring (Mua Xuan), February to April, brings mild weather with average temperatures around 20°C to 24°C (68°F to 75°F) and lower humidity. This shoulder season is ideal for walking city streets, visiting parks, and combining Hanoi with nearby countryside trips.

Summer (Mua He), May to August, is warm and humid, with typical temperatures between 28°C and 32°C (82°F to 90°F). Short showers are common and bring a refreshing break from the heat. This peak season suits travellers who enjoy long daylight hours and lush green landscapes.

Autumn and early winter (Mua Thu and Mua Dong), September to January, are generally cooler, with temperatures from 16°C to 22°C (61°F to 72°F). Skies are often clearer, and the air can feel crisp, making it a pleasant shoulder season for city walks, lakeside strolls, and exploring Hanoi’s cultural sights.

Frequently Asked Questions