Hanoi, the thousand-year-old capital of Vietnam, is an attractive tourist destination with a perfect blend of ancient and modern features. Here is a detailed travel guide to Hanoi, including transportation, accommodation, costs, and famous places you must not miss.
Transportation
1. Getting to Hanoi
You can choose various means of transportation to get to Hanoi, such as airplanes, trains, buses, or even motorbikes if you enjoy adventure. If you are coming from major cities like Ho Chi Minh City or Da Nang, flying is the fastest and most convenient option. Airlines such as Vietnam Airlines, Vietjet Air, and Bamboo Airways have regular flights to Noi Bai Airport.
2. Getting around Hanoi
Once in Hanoi, you have many options for getting around the city. Taxis and ride-hailing services like Grab and Gojek are convenient choices. If you want to experience life like a local, buses and bicycles are interesting and economical means of transportation. Renting a motorbike is also a popular option for those who want to explore Hanoi freely and flexibly.
Accommodation
1. Hotels
Hanoi has a wide range of hotels from budget to luxury, suitable for all budgets. Luxury hotels like Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi and InterContinental Hanoi Westlake offer luxurious experiences and excellent services. Mid-range hotels such as La Siesta Hotel & Spa and Hanoi Pearl Hotel provide good services at reasonable prices.
2. Homestays or Hostels
If you want to save costs and have a closer experience of local life, homestays or hostels are great budget-friendly options, especially for groups traveling together. Homestays like Old Quarter View Hanoi Hostel and Little Charm Hanoi Hostel are not only affordable but also very beautiful and comfortable. Staying here, you can meet and make friends with many other travelers.
Costs
1. Transportation Costs
The cost of getting to Hanoi depends on the means of transportation you choose. Airfare from Ho Chi Minh City to Hanoi ranges from 1 million to 3 million VND depending on the time and airline. If you travel by train, tickets cost from 700 thousand to 1.5 million VND.
Travel costs within the city are also very reasonable, with taxi fares around 15,000 VND/km and similar rates for ride-hailing services. Alternatively, you can spend 1-2 million VND for a round trip around Hanoi and neighboring provinces by renting a tourist car with a driver.
2. Accommodation Costs
As mentioned above, Hanoi offers a variety of accommodation options, from hotels to homestays and hostels, making accommodation costs very diverse. Five-star hotels cost from 2 million to 5 million VND per night, while three-star hotels range from 500 thousand to 1 million VND. Homestays and hostels cost from 150 thousand to 500 thousand VND, making them suitable for young travelers or budget-conscious tourists. Generally, accommodation costs in Hanoi are not too high, and for large groups of tourists, these costs can be significantly reduced.
3. Food Costs
Hanoi is famous for its rich and affordable cuisine. Street food meals range from 30,000 to 50,000 VND. Affordable restaurants cost from 100,000 to 200,000 VND per meal. For fine dining, the cost can range from 500,000 to 1 million VND per meal.
Famous Places to Visit in Hanoi
1. Hoan Kiem Lake – Sword Lake
Hoan Kiem Lake, a symbol of Hanoi, is associated with many legends and history. Also known as Sword Lake, it is tied to the story of King Le Loi returning the magical sword to the Golden Turtle after defeating the Ming army. The lake is located in the city center, with Turtle Tower prominently in the middle and Ngoc Son Temple on a small island connected by the bright red The Huc Bridge. Early mornings or late afternoons are ideal times to walk around the lake, enjoy the scenery, and breathe in the fresh air.
Nearby is Hanoi’s Old Quarter, one of the busiest and most vibrant areas in the city. The Old Quarter consists of narrow streets named after the goods traditionally sold there, such as Hang Bac, Hang Ngang, and Hang Dao. Here you can explore the local culture and lifestyle through traditional shops, street food vendors, and bustling night markets. Don’t forget to try famous dishes like pho, bun cha, and spring rolls at the small, charming eateries in the alleyways.
2. Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum
The Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, located in Ba Dinh Square, is the final resting place of President Ho Chi Minh. Built between 1973 and 1975, the mausoleum holds great historical and cultural significance. Visiting the mausoleum, you not only pay respects to President Ho but also learn about his great life and career. Ba Dinh Square in front of the mausoleum hosts many important national events, including the National Day ceremony on September 2.
Besides the Mausoleum, the area has many other attractions such as the Presidential Palace, where Ho Chi Minh worked, his stilt house, and the Ho Chi Minh Museum. The stilt house, where he lived and worked from 1958 until his death, features simple architecture in harmony with nature. The museum provides a comprehensive view of Ho Chi Minh’s life and career through artifacts, images, and historical documents.
3. Temple of Literature – Quoc Tu Giam
The Temple of Literature – Quoc Tu Giam, Vietnam’s first university, was built in 1070 during King Ly Thanh Tong’s reign. It is dedicated to Confucius and honors scholars and students. The temple features traditional Vietnamese architecture with many stele bearing the names of distinguished scholars.
The site is divided into several areas, each with its own unique architecture. The main gate leads to a long path lined with green trees. Inside is the Khue Van Pavilion, a symbol of Hanoi with its distinctive and elegant architecture. This is where cultural events are held, and visitors can learn about Vietnam’s educational history. The main area also has shrines and open courtyards, creating a peaceful and solemn atmosphere.
4. St. Joseph’s Cathedral
St. Joseph’s Cathedral, also known as Hanoi Cathedral, is one of the city’s most prominent religious buildings. Built in the late 19th century, the cathedral showcases Gothic architecture with tall towers and vibrant stained-glass windows. It is the center of Hanoi’s Catholic community and a favorite destination for tourists.
The cathedral is conveniently located near Hoan Kiem Lake and the Old Quarter. The surrounding area is lively with many cafes, restaurants, and souvenir shops, creating a vibrant yet serene space. During major holidays like Christmas, the cathedral is beautifully decorated, attracting thousands of visitors.
5. One Pillar Pagoda
The One Pillar Pagoda, also known as Dien Huu Pagoda, is one of Hanoi’s architectural and religious symbols. Built in 1049 during the Ly Thai Tong dynasty, the pagoda stands out with its unique architecture resembling a lotus flower on water. The pagoda is supported by a single stone pillar, symbolizing the purity and elegance of Buddhism.
The pagoda is set in a large complex with a lotus pond and many green trees, creating a peaceful and tranquil space in the bustling city. Visitors come here not only to admire the unique architecture but also to seek peace and serenity in their minds. The pagoda hosts many important religious festivals and events, attracting numerous locals and tourists.
6. West Lake and Tran Quoc Pagoda
West Lake is Hanoi’s largest freshwater lake, covering about 500 hectares with a circumference of up to 17 km. The lake offers beautiful natural scenery and is home to many historical and cultural relics. Along the lake’s shores are numerous restaurants, cafes, and high-end hotels, making it an ideal destination for relaxation and dining.
Tran Quoc Pagoda, located on a small peninsula in West Lake, is one of Vietnam’s oldest pagodas with a history of over 1,500 years. The pagoda features traditional architecture, including an 11-story tower, exquisite Buddha statues, and a peaceful garden. Visitors can learn about Buddhist history and architecture while enjoying the stunning views of West Lake.
7. Bat Trang Pottery Village
Bat Trang Pottery Village, located about 13 km from Hanoi’s center, is a traditional village famous for its exquisite ceramic products. With over 700 years of history, the village produces high-quality ceramics like bowls, plates, vases, statues, and various decorative items. Visitors can tour the workshops, learn the pottery-making process, and even try their hand at making unique ceramic products.
The Bat Trang pottery market is a hub of shops selling ceramic items, where visitors can buy souvenirs. The village also features other attractions like Bat Trang Communal House, which honors the village’s ancestors and gods, and ancient houses with unique architecture.
8. Thu Le Park
Thu Le Park, located in Ba Dinh district, is one of Hanoi’s largest parks, covering over 29 hectares. The park is surrounded by a lake and lush greenery, creating a cool and peaceful space in the city center. It is an ideal place for walking, exercising, and relaxing.
The park houses a large zoo, preserving and caring for many rare animals like elephants, tigers, lions, bears, and beautiful birds. Thu Le Park also has many playgrounds for children, restaurants, and cafes, making it a popular destination for families and tourists.
Conclusion
Hanoi, with its rich history, diverse culture, and stunning landscapes, offers endless attractions for visitors. Whether exploring ancient temples, sampling delicious street food, or immersing in the city’s bustling life, Hanoi is sure to leave unforgettable memories. This travel guide provides the essentials for an exciting and comprehensive Hanoi experience. Pack your bags and embark on a journey to this thousand-year-old capital today!
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