Welcome to Hanoi, the thousand-year-old capital of Vietnam

Hello and welcome to Hanoi, the thousand-year-old capital of Vietnam! Today, we’ll take you on a journey to explore this fascinating city, covering how to get here, must-see attractions, and famous local dishes.

How to Fly to Hanoi

Hanoi is served by Noi Bai International Airport, located about 30 kilometers (19 miles) from the city center. This airport connects Hanoi with major cities across Asia, Europe, and North America. There are several direct flights to and from international hubs like Bangkok, Seoul, Tokyo, Singapore, and Paris. Once you land, you can easily reach the city center by taxi, bus, or airport shuttle services.

Top Attractions in Hanoi

Hoan Kiem Lake and Ngoc Son Temple

Our first stop is Hoan Kiem Lake, the heart of Hanoi, where you can learn about the legendary story of the Golden Turtle and King Le Loi. In the middle of the lake stands the iconic Turtle Tower. You can also visit Ngoc Son Temple on a small island, accessible by the charming red Huc Bridge.

Turtle Tower - Hoan Kiem Lake

Thue Huc Bridge

The Old Quarter

Next, we head to the bustling Old Quarter, a maze of narrow streets where each street specializes in selling a specific type of goods. This area gives you a glimpse of traditional Hanoi life, with its small shops, cafes, and vibrant street food scene. The architecture here reflects the city’s rich history, with a mix of French colonial buildings and ancient Vietnamese houses.

The Temple of Literature (Van Mieu - Quoc Tu Giam)

Founded in 1070, this is Vietnam’s first national university, dedicated to Confucius and scholars. The Temple of Literature is a peaceful sanctuary in the middle of the busy city, with beautiful gardens, ponds, and historic buildings. It’s also a symbol of Vietnamese education and culture.

The Temple of Literature (Van Mieu - Quoc Tu Giam)

Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum

This is a sacred place where the body of President Ho Chi Minh is preserved. Located in Ba Dinh Square, the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum is one of the most important historical and political sites in Vietnam. Nearby, you can also visit his former residence, the Ho Chi Minh Stilt House, and the Ho Chi Minh Museum to learn more about his life and legacy.

Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum

Tran Quoc Pagoda

Located on the serene West Lake, Tran Quoc Pagoda is the oldest Buddhist temple in Hanoi, dating back more than 1,500 years. The pagoda stands on a small island connected by a causeway, offering beautiful views of the lake, especially during sunset.

Tran Quoc Pagoda

Famous Local Dishes

When in Hanoi, you can't miss the city's incredible street food and traditional dishes. Here are some must-try dishes:

Pho

A visit to Hanoi wouldn’t be complete without tasting Pho, the world-famous Vietnamese noodle soup. Whether it’s beef (Pho Bo) or chicken (Pho Ga), this hearty dish with its fragrant broth and tender meat is perfect for any meal of the day.

Pho

See more: How to cook delicious Vietnames Pho

Bun Cha

A local favorite, Bun Cha consists of grilled pork served with rice noodles, fresh herbs, and a dipping sauce made of fish sauce, vinegar, and garlic. It’s often accompanied by crispy fried spring rolls (Nem). This dish was made even more famous when President Obama tried it during his visit to Hanoi!

Bun cha

Banh Cuon

This is a delicate steamed rice roll filled with minced pork and mushrooms, served with a dipping sauce and topped with fried shallots. Light and savory, Banh Cuon is a perfect breakfast or snack.

Banh cuon

Cha Ca La Vong

A unique dish of Hanoi, Cha Ca La Vong is grilled fish marinated with turmeric, served with dill, peanuts, rice noodles, and shrimp paste. It’s a one-of-a-kind dish that you must try to experience the true flavor of the city.

Cha Ca La Vong

Egg Coffee (Ca Phe Trung)

For dessert or a drink, don't miss Egg Coffee, a Hanoi specialty. This creamy, sweet beverage is made with strong Vietnamese coffee topped with a frothy egg yolk mixture. It’s an unusual but delightful treat that will surprise you.

Egg Coffee

Coffee on the railway

Drinking coffee while watching trains in Hanoi is a unique experience that draws many visitors. Along "Train Street" in Hoan Kiem District, you can sit at small cafés right next to the tracks, enjoy a strong Vietnamese coffee, and wait for the train to pass just meters away. The sound of the train horn, the vibrations, and the close-up view of the train create a thrilling yet peaceful moment in the heart of the city.

Hanoi offers a unique blend of ancient history, colonial architecture, and modern vibrancy. Whether you're exploring its historical sites, walking through the bustling Old Quarter, or indulging in its world-renowned street food, Hanoi promises an unforgettable experience. We hope you enjoy your time discovering this beautiful city and all it has to offer.