Temple of Literature
Vietnam's first national university, founded in 1070.
Hanoi
Old Quarter lanes, lakeside mornings, street food after dark.
About Hanoi
Vietnam's capital is where most northern itineraries begin. A thousand years of history sit around Hoan Kiem Lake, with the Old Quarter's narrow streets on one side and wide colonial boulevards on the other.
Travellers come for the food, the temples and the energy, and use the city as a base for Ha Long Bay, Ninh Binh and Sapa.
What travellers come for
Highlights of Hanoi
Hoan Kiem Lake
The heart of the city, with Ngoc Son Temple on its island.
Water puppet theatre
A centuries-old art form, staged every evening.
The Old Quarter
Thirty-six streets, each once known for its own trade.
Train Street
Cafés a few steps from the passing train.
Street food tours
Pho, bun cha and egg coffee, with a local guide.
When to go
Hanoi month by month
Recommended months
March, April, October, November, December
Average temperature and monthly rainfall. A thick outline marks the months we recommend.
Partners in Hanoi
What we're looking for here
Run one of these in Hanoi? We'd like to hear from you.
Introduce your business- Family rooms and connecting rooms near the Old Quarter
- Evening food tours and cooking classes
- Private cars for day trips to Ninh Binh and Ha Long Bay
Northern Vietnam
