Travelers' pro tips for experiencing Hanoi

Anh N

There are many things to see in Hanoi but you will definitely need at least 2 days. During the day, walk in the old quarter and see attractions in the city might kill your full day. The nightlife is at the night market. Try to enjoy the street food.

Michael

The locals are all very helpful, just ask.

Kirsty S

If you’re planning a trip to Hanoi that will be mainly outdoors, keep the climate in mind. Summer is hot and humid. The best time for outdoor activities is in spring and autumn.

In the words of those who've been there before ...

George Kalofonos

Hanoi is the capital city of Vietnam and a very different experience to that which you'll find in Ho Chi Minh City. This northern, and most cosmopolitan, city...is an excellent base to explore Hanoi's interesting and traditional countryside, or for a trip to Halong Bay.

BeckAndGunny

Hanoi is a city on the move. Literally. The speed of life in this capital can make your head spin. From the cramped streets to the multitudes of scooters flashing past, you'll feel the heartbeat of Hanoi every minute of every day you're there.

Mik W

Hanoi is the best of all kinds of crazy. From the colorful whirlwind of the center to old colonial architecture to bars that mix locals, expats, travelers, and, of course, to the relics of Ho Chi Minh and the Vietnamese war, this city is a one-stop-shop for an ever enchanting and historically important region.

What is the best way to get there?

Flying:

The main international airport is Noi Bai Airport which is located in the Soc San District of Hanoi. This district is approximately thirty miles from downtown Hanoi. Upon arrival, visitors can either take a taxi or have the hotel transport pick them up to take them to their hotel destination.

Do I need a visa?

If you’re visiting Hanoi from overseas, visit the Vietnamese Immigration Department website to see if you need a visa.

When is the best time to visit?

Autumn and Spring: In autumn (around September to November) and Spring (in March and April), Hanoi’s weather is at its best. In winter, Hanoi is quite cold with temperatures falling below 10ºC (50ºF). In summer, things get hotter, with temperatures averaging around 28-35ºC (82º-95ºF). Hanoi has high humidity year-round. Check out this comprehensive tip sheet with what to expect.

Private car

Visitors often opt to rent a private car (and driver) when arriving at the airport in Hanoi. This is considered to be an efficient and inexpensive form of transportation. Car rental companies assign drivers as guides to assist visitors in getting around the area. This is a standard procedure and a common way for visitors to get in and out of the city after arriving in Hanoi. Having a private car hire and driver is a good way to become acquainted with Hanoi and the surrounding area.

Motorcycle hire

For those interested in motorcycle hire, it's important to note that traffic patterns and driving styles are much different than what foreigners are used to in their home countries. If you are planning to pilot your own vehicle, be warned that all of Vietnam is a "motorbike society,” and as such motorbike driving follows Vietnamese patterns that visitors are not used to. It could be considered alien, random, chaotic, or insane to the western visitor. Even drivers in big trucks and buses drive as if they were sitting on top of a small nimble motorbike. You may want to seriously reconsider driving your own vehicle, at least until you have a good understanding of the local rules.

Walking

Visitors should also know that, upon getting into downtown Hanoi, it is relatively easy to get around on foot. Visitors should feel free to save their money for tours and walk around instead of renting a car or motorbike.

More tips on getting around Hanoi here.

Get more tipping tips here.

Here’s a great overview of customs and etiquette in Vietnam generally.