First time in Hanoi: Everything you need to know

For your first time in Hanoi, get ready to dive into the city’s rich culture and iconic attractions, whether paddling along the iconic Hoan Kiem Lake or visiting the Temple of Literature to appreciate traditional Vietnamese architecture. There’s no shortage of fascinating things to do in Hanoi for first-timers: spend your days exploring picturesque neighborhoods like the Old Quarter or sampling favorite local dishes like pho (noodle soup) and banh mi (Vietnamese baguette sandwiches). This first-timer’s guide covers all the essential things to know about Hanoi for an enjoyable stay in Vietnam’s bustling capital city.

Hanoi: Tips for first-timers

1. The city can get quite hot and humid, especially during summer, so make sure to stay hydrated. Water bottles are available in most shops around the city, as Hanoi’s tap water isn’t drinkable.
2. During the rainy season (May to October), carry an umbrella or a light rain jacket, as rain showers can occur suddenly.
3. Visit popular sites like Hoan Kiem Lake early in the morning to avoid crowds, especially on weekends when locals also flock to popular landmarks.
4. Make sure to have some cash on hand, as smaller shops, street food vendors, and local markets often don’t accept cards.

Best time to visit

Hanoi and the north of Vietnam have a subtropical climate, with hot summers and cool winters. But no matter the season, Hanoi offers all kinds of exciting experiences alongside the city’s famous attractions. From spring’s blooming cherry blossoms to the city-wide festivities in celebration of fall, discover the best time to visit Hanoi below.

Spring

Spring in Hanoi runs from February to April, bringing clearer skies and mild temperatures. The city is at its liveliest in early spring, especially with the blooming cherry blossoms around Hoan Kiem Lake from late January to early March.

Summer

Summer in Hanoi sees the city at its hottest. Escape the humidity and occasional rain storms by exploring some of the city’s indoor attractions, like the Ho Chi Minh Museum, art galleries, and traditional water puppet theaters.

Fall

During fall in Hanoi, the city is a hub of activity, with colorful lanterns and lively dragon dances signaling the start of Tet Trung Thu, also known as Vietnam’s Mid-autumn Festival. The mild autumn days are also ideal for exploring the charming Old Quarter.

Winter

Winter in Hanoi runs from December to February, bringing cooler temperatures and the excitement of the lively Lunar New Year festivities known as Tet. Take in the processions, and traditional rituals and customs in the Old Quarter, but note that businesses and attractions close for Tet as people focus on family time.

Hanoi’s top 5 must-visit attractions

1. Hoan Kiem Lake

A peaceful retreat in the heart of the city, this enchanting lake is one of the top things to do in Hanoi for first-timers. A stroll along its tranquil banks offers views of the beautiful Ngoc Son Temple on an island at its center.

2. Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum

Contemplate the legacy of Ho Chi Minh, the revolutionary politician and past Prime Minister of Vietnam, at this solemn marble mausoleum in Ba Dinh Square.

3. Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre

Don’t miss a traditional Vietnamese water puppet show on your first time in Hanoi. These unique performances, which showcase an art form dating back to the 11th century, are accompanied by live music at the stunning Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre.

4. Perfume Pagoda

A visit to the Perfume Pagoda is a must-do in Hanoi — the sprawling complex of Buddhist temples and shrines is known for its breathtaking mountain landscape and rich spiritual traditions.

5. Temple of Literature

Dedicated to Confucius, the majestic Temple of Literature houses Vietnam’s first national university in a series of buildings and courtyards highlighting traditional architecture from the 11th century.

Best 3 neighborhoods to explore in Hanoi

Old Quarter (Phố Cổ)

One of the most charming neighborhoods in Hanoi, the Old Quarter boasts traditional shops and an incredible street food scene. Whether browsing local markets or enjoying a bowl of pho at a street stall, there are plenty of things to do in the Old Quarter.

Hoan Kiem District

Hanoi’s Hoan Kiem district combines historic charm with vibrant energy. Beyond Hoan Kiem Lake and the island temple Ngoc Son, the area boasts fascinating cultural sites and lively streets filled with shops and cafes, earning it a spot in any first-timer’s guide.

Tay Ho

Tay Ho, known for its beautiful West Lake, is a neighborhood that offers a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. Home to tree-lined streets and trendy cafes, it’s the perfect area for a relaxing stroll by the water.

What to eat in Hanoi

Bursting with fresh herbs and flavorful spices, Hanoi’s cuisine is a feast for the senses. From fan favorites like banh mi sandwiches to lesser-known delicacies, explore the city’s iconic dishes in this first-timer’s guide.

Main dishes to try

1. Pho

Possibly Vietnam’s most famous dish, pho is a must-do in Hanoi. This fragrant noodle soup is made with beef or chicken, rice noodles, and a rich broth, and is often garnished with fresh herbs and bean sprouts.

2. Bun Cha

Bun cha consists of grilled pork meatballs served with rice noodles and a flavorful dipping sauce. It’s often paired with fresh herbs and fried spring rolls.

3. Banh Mi

These tasty Vietnamese sandwiches are served warm in a crispy baguette filled with various meats, pickled vegetables, fresh herbs, and spreads of your choosing, from mayonnaise to pâté. They can be found at street vendors all over the city.

4. Cha Ca

A must-try for your first time in Hanoi, this local specialty features grilled fish marinated with turmeric and dill that’s served with rice noodles and fresh herbs.

5. Egg Coffee

Egg coffee, or ca phe trung, is a unique treat made from whipped egg yolks, sugar, and sweetened condensed milk poured over coffee. It can be served both hot or cold over ice.

Getting to Hanoi

Flying into Noi Bai International Airport

Noi Bai International Airport is Vietnam’s second-largest international airport, with flights arriving from all over the world. It’s well-connected and has plenty of convenient transfers ready to whisk you to the center of Hanoi. The journey from the airport takes around 30-45 minutes, depending on whether you opt for a taxi, bus, or shuttle.

Hanoi Railway Station

The city’s central railway hub, Hanoi Railway Station, offers connections to destinations across Vietnam. The station’s central location is just a 20-minute walk from the Old Quarter, making it easy to start exploring right away.

Getting around Hanoi

Thanks to its compact center, getting around Hanoi is easy. Walking is a great way to explore the sights in the Old Quarter, while buses, taxis, and motorbike taxis make covering longer distances a breeze.

Exploring Hanoi on foot

Hanoi is pedestrian-friendly, especially in the Old Quarter, where many top attractions are within easy walking distance. Navigating the city on foot is one of the best things to do in Hanoi for first-timers and offers a brilliant way to get up close and personal with its historic neighborhoods and lively street life.

Public transportation in Hanoi

Hanoi’s public transportation network includes buses, taxis, and a growing metro line, making it easy to hop from place to place. Buses can be paid for using a transport card or cash. For easy access to motorbike taxis and standard taxis, opt for ride-hailing apps like Grab, Gojek, and Be, which offer cashless payment and upfront fare estimates.

What to avoid in Hanoi

• Do not run when crossing busy streets. Traffic in Hanoi is intimidating, so always use designated crosswalks, make eye contact with drivers, and cross the street at a slow and steady pace without making sudden stops.
• Avoid accepting rides from independent motorbike drivers, as they can overcharge or have unclear rates. Instead, opt for reputable ride-sharing apps like Go or Be, or agree on a price upfront.
• One of the most important things to know about Hanoi is that tap water isn’t considered safe for drinking — not even for locals. Always opt for bottled water, which is widely available, or carry a reusable water bottle that you can refill with filtered water in hotels or restaurants.

First-timer’s guide to Hanoi: FAQs

How many days in Hanoi is enough?

For your first time in Hanoi, allow for three to four days. This gives you plenty of time to explore the main landmarks. However, if you want to take day trips to Halong Bay (or spend a few nights on a boat there), plan a couple more days.

Is it safe to walk around Hanoi at night?

Hanoi is generally a safe city with a lively atmosphere at night. However, it’s always advisable to take precautions — stick to well-lit streets and be aware of your surroundings.

Can I use Uber in Hanoi?

Uber is no longer available in Hanoi or anywhere else in Vietnam. Instead, you can use the ride-hailing app Grab, which offers car rides, motorbike taxis, and food delivery.

Do I need cash in Hanoi?

While the city is becoming increasingly card-friendly, it’s still a good idea to bring Vietnamese dong with you for payments in smaller shops and street markets. Additionally, some iconic Hanoi experiences, like buying street food at stalls, are only possible with cash.

Do you tip in Hanoi?

While not required, tipping is always appreciated in Hanoi, especially in restaurants and for services like tours or transfers. A tip of 5 to 10% is considered generous.