Hanoithe capital city of Vietnam

Last Update: 23rd October 2020
With a history of more than 1,000 years, Hanoi has been the political, economic and cultural center of Vietnam since the 11th Century. It is rich in historical relics, with numerous historical and cultural sites. Hanoi is home to the Jing Nationality for hundreds of years. ​
Hanoi Fast Facts
  • Name: Hanoi (Hà Nội)
  • Area: 3,340 x square kilometers
  • Things to do th​ere: Photography, Ruins, Vietnamese History and Culture
  • Who visits: Photographers, Adventure Enthusiasts, Vietnamese History and Culture Lovers
  • Time required: 2 – 3 x days

What to expect in Hanoi

Hanoi was composed of the Inner City and the Outer City in the ancient times. The Inner City was divided into three parts: the Forbidden City, the Royal City and the residential area with markets. The king, the queen and maids of honour of different rank, his descendants, and the servants lived in the Forbidden City. The Royal City was the place where the courtiers worked. Unfortunately, the buildings were destroyed in the war.
If you’d like to experience the local life in a free place, it is recommended that you pay a visit to Hoan Kiem Lake. Around the lake, locals love doing morning exercises. The local elder enjoy fishing, and chatting.
The most popular spot in Hanoi is Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum. The founder of Socialist Republic of Vietnam – Ho Chi Minh sleeps there for ever. People can visit the mausoleum for free. But it is just opened to the public in the morning.
If you have strong interests in army, Army Museum in Hanoi is a great option. Some old weapons, helicopters, tanks and so on are on display there. Fine Arts Museum is a good place for artists. You will find a variety of artifacts from the prehistoric period through the 11th Century to the 21st Century. Through the exhibits at the National Museum of Vietnamese History, you will get a little acquainted with the Vietnamese history. Vietnamese Women’s Museum – Bảo Tàng Phụ nữ Việt Nam introduces the significant roles of Vietnamese women in the history of the country.
Water Puppet Theater features the distinctive water puppet show which is one-of-a-kind in the world. If you are interested to explore the local market, there are several markets in Hanoi for you – Hang Da Market, Cho Hom Market, and Dong Xuan Market. You may be excited with the goods at the market. Hanoi Night Market is a paradise for foodies with various types of local delicious food.

Best time to visit Hanoi

The best months to visit Hanoi are from March to November.

 

How to get to Hanoi

There are numerous direct international flights to Hanoi from overseas cities, such as Hong Kong, Singapore, Beijing, Guangzhou, Shanghai, Bangkok, etc.
Alternatively, if you are planning to take a train to Hanoi from China, you could make it from Nanning to Hanoi. There are also bus connections from Laos to Hanoi.

 

Additional Hanoi Travel Advice

  • As Hanoi features the tropical monsoon climate, it is suggested that you take an umbrella and sunglasses with you.
  • Please figure out what places are forbidden to be taken photos with camera or cellphone.
  • If you are planning to experience the festive atmosphere of the Spring Festival in Hanoi, it is recommended that you take several thin jackets with you as it is a little cold during the period of time.
  • Please take sunscreen cream with you as the sun is usually strong in Hanoi.

Interested in visiting Hanoi on a Tour?

Wendy Wei Tours offers a variety of different packaged tours as well as custom tours including Hanoi, among other attractions and destinations. To find out more, please visit our Tours page or Contact Us directly to find out more.