destination guide: hanoi
Hanoi pulsates with the rhythm of life, a city where tradition and innovation collide in a beautiful, cacophonous symphony. This is a place where every corner tells a story, and every dish speaks of a rich culinary heritage woven into the fabric of its bustling streets.
Amidst the labyrinthine alleys of the Old Quarter, Hanoi unveils its soul in steaming bowls of pho and the tantalizing aroma of sizzling bánh mì. Dive into the culinary chaos, where street vendors become maestros, orchestrating a medley of flavors that dance on your palate. From the savory umami of fish sauce to the fragrant nuance of fresh herbs, every bite here is a love letter to Vietnam’s vibrant culinary legacy.
Yet, Hanoi is more than just a food lover’s haven. It is a city of contrasts, where ancient temples stand shoulder to shoulder with modern skyscrapers, and where incense swirls in the air alongside the buzz of motorbikes. Lose yourself in the historical whispers of the Temple of Literature, where the echoes of Confucian scholars still resonate, or find solace in the tranquil gardens of the Presidential Palace, an oasis amidst the urban frenzy.
Warm smiles and genuine hospitality are served up alongside robust Vietnamese coffee in humble yet charming cafes, where time slows down just enough to savor the sweetness of life. Engage in friendly banter with locals over a glass of egg coffee (yes, EGG COFFEE) or bia hơi, and you’ll uncover the beating heart of Hanoi, where community and camaraderie thrive.
In Hanoi, every moment is a sensory adventure, a delicate balance of tradition and modernity, of chaos and serenity. It’s a place that beckons the curious soul to embrace the unknown, to savor the simplicity of street-side delicacies, and to bask in the richness of a culture that embraces both the old and the new with open arms. This is Hanoi, where every experience is a chapter in a timeless story of resilience, passion, and the unwavering spirit of the Vietnamese people.
HANOI EXPERIENCES
Please note these experiences can only be booked as part of a longer multi-day itinerary, and are not available as standalone trips.
OUR FAVOURITE HANOI HOTELS
sofitel legend metropole hanoi
Embracing a storied legacy that dates back to the early 1900s, the Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi has long stood as a testament to the captivating history of Hanoi. Over the years, this cherished establishment has played host to a dazzling array of luminaries, welcoming the likes of esteemed playwrights, celebrated actors, distinguished ambassadors, and revered heads of state. Icons such as Charlie Chaplin, Graham Greene, and Somerset Maugham have graced its halls, leaving an indelible mark on its fabled narrative.
With 364 opulent rooms and suites, the hotel seamlessly blends the original grandeur of the historic Metropole Wing with the neo-classical allure of the Opera Wing. Indulge in the comfort of the renowned Sofitel MyBed and revel in the sophisticated amenities, including high-speed Internet, sleek LCD televisions, and lavish Balmain bathroom products. Your culinary adventure is curated through a diverse array of dining options, from the Parisian charm of La Terrasse to the vibrant Vietnamese flavors at Spices Garden. Take a sip of sophistication at the bespoke cocktail bar, restaurant, and whisky lounge, Angelina, or unwind at the poolside Bamboo Bar. With its distinguished history and impeccable service, Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi promises an unforgettable stay in the heart of Hanoi.
hotel de l'opera
Experience a night at the Opera at this 5-star boutique marvel right in the buzzing heart of Hanoi, crowned as the Best Boutique Hotel in Asia 2015 by the discerning SmartTravelAsia community. Get ready for a stunning mashup of French colonial elegance and dramatic theatrical vibes that’ll take your breath away.
Planted in the historic centre of Hanoi, you’re just a skip away from the iconic Hanoi Opera House, the charming Old Quarter, and the tranquil Hoan Kiem Lake. With 107 meticulously-crafted guest rooms and suites, each space is a plush sanctuary, loaded with top-notch amenities handpicked for that unbeatable luxury experience. Wooden floors, rain showers, bathtub indulgence, Appelles toiletries, illy pod coffee machines, and JBL speakers are just the tip of this lavish iceberg.
Treat your taste buds to a wild ride at Café Lautrec, where an array of lip-smacking à la carte and buffet wonders await your eager palate. Or delve into the essence of Vietnam at Satine, where local favorites steal the spotlight. And if you’re up for a twist, swing by La Fee Verte, our whimsical bar boasting a dazzling array of aged spirits, show-stopping cocktails, and imported wines to make your evenings nothing short of extraordinary.
capella hanoi
Step into a wonderland of operatic whimsy and offbeat luxury at Capella Hanoi, where the ghosts of divas past dance alongside contemporary elegance. Located by the tranquil Hoàn Kiếm Lake, this art nouveau gem is a love letter to the dramatic flair of opera’s golden age, with each of the 47 rooms and suites boasting its own quirky ode to the greats.
Prepare your taste buds for a time-traveling feast at Backstage, where the bold flavors of 1920s Northern Vietnam get a quirky, modern twist. In Diva’s Lounge, sip on avant-garde cocktails and savor sweet concoctions inspired by rebellious female maestros. Venture below to Koki, an elusive den celebrating the art of Japanese gastronomy, a hidden sanctuary for the culinary curious.
For moments of zen, Regale awaits in the hotel’s basement, an oasis housing a gym, spa, pool, sauna, and steam room. Let Capella Hanoi whisk you away on a playful journey through time, where stunning contemporary touches meet the extravagance of a bygone era, inviting you to immerse yourself in the heart of Hanoi’s enchanting spirit.
WHEN TO GO
Hanoi is in the far north of Vietnam and thus has a climate similar to that of southern China – hot, humid summers, and cool, often cold, damp winters.
Rain isn’t too big a deal here, but the summer months can be oppressively hot; likewise the cold from December to February can be a shock to those expecting tropical climes. The best times to visit? Spring and Autumn/Fall, when the weather is dry and temperatures are pleasant.