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Hanoi Travel Guide 2026

The ultimate Hanoi travel guide: Old Quarter, Hoan Kiem Lake, Temple of Literature, street food, hotels, and how to get around Vietnam's capital city.

Why Visit Hanoi?

Hanoi, Vietnam’s capital and largest city, is one of Southeast Asia’s most fascinating destinations — a city where French colonial boulevards meet ancient pagodas, and where the world’s best pho is served from sidewalk plastic stools. With over 1,000 years of history, Hanoi rewards slow exploration. The chaotic, electric Old Quarter is unlike anywhere else on earth.

Hanoi is also the gateway to Northern Vietnam: Halong Bay is 3.5 hours away, Sapa is 5 hours by overnight train, and Ninh Binh is just 2 hours south. Most international travelers to Northern Vietnam pass through Hanoi — usually staying 2–3 nights.