Is Hanoi worth visiting in 2025? What to expect, eat & explore in Vietnam’s Capital.
Is Hanoi worth visiting?
That is the question that I was asking myself as I planned my recent trip to South East Asia.
I’d already explored the south of Vietnam…
Chaotic Saigon, the Mekong, the island life in Phu Quoc, but I’d heard Hanoi had a whole different vibe
Colder. faster paced. More traditional. More intense. And with the famous egg coffees!
Locals eating pho on stools in side streets, and very picturesque pagodas!
I was half-wondering if it would all feel too hectic or touristy — but that’s exactly what I witnessed (in the best way) as soon as I arrived in the Old Quarter.
Hanoi surprised me in the best possible way.
Unique cafe culture, awesome street food, and of course… That famous Train Street!
Let me show you why Hanoi 100% deserves a spot on your Vietnam itinerary - And how to experience the best of it.
Inside a pagoda near the lake.
Disclosure: I sometimes use affiliate marketing. This will not cost you anything, but helps with my travel costs. I only recommend companies I use myself.
Why visit Hanoi?
I had just arrived in Hanoi after one month in Thailand, and I was greeted by rainy cold weather, so it would have been easy to have had bad first impressions of the Vietnamese capital…
However, the city is unique, and very rich in tradition, making it an ideal stop on a South East Asia backpacking route.
It only took me about an hour in the Old Quarter to realise that Hanoi has serious character.
It’s fast-paced, packed with history, and full of contrasts….
One minute I was crossing a chaotic street, by dodging scooters, the next I was sipping an egg coffee in a peaceful courtyard café.
Tranquility at Hoàn Kiếm Lake.
The energy of Hanoi’s Old Quarter.
Without a doubt, the real heartbeat of Hanoi is in its Old Quarter area.
The constant sensory attack is totally unique, and an essential part of any Vietnam itinerary.
Scooters flying around everywhere, street food stalls on every corner, and honking that is round the clock.
The footpaths? Yeah… they turn into roads when locals decide it’s quicker to ride through them — reminded me a lot of my time in Bali.
It is very full-on, but ideal for a few days in the capital.
It is where the city really comes alive.
I stayed right in the middle of it all, and it made everything easier… And way more fun.
Looking for the best places to stay in the Old Quarter?
A busy street in the Old Quarter.
Wandering tiny streets & hidden cafés.
When I visited Ho Chi Minh City it felt similar to Hanoi, however, the capital feels way more traditional.
I loved just wandering around the backstreets of the Old Quarter finding some hidden local spots.
Flower sellers with straw hats, colourful streets, and lots of noise echoing around the narrow alleys.
My days with no plan in the Vietnamese capital turned into very fun experiences.
Down tiny alleyways, I stumbled across quiet cafés, hidden courtyards, and some seriously good coffee (the Vietnamese know how to make coffee!).
👉 Book a Hanoi coffee tour to sample egg coffee, coconut coffee, and more.
A very colourful street.
Kafa Café was one of my favourites — super aesthetic with good views for people-watching and proper strong Vietnamese coffee.
The Note Coffee is worth visiting just for the walls, which are totally covered in handwritten Post-it notes from travellers around the world.
Also check out Hidden Gem Coffee — as the name suggests, it’s tucked away but packed with quirky decor and rooftop views.
The coffee culture in Hanoi really surprised me — it’s strong, sweet, and totally unique (egg coffee is a must-try, even if it sounds weird at first).
One of my favourite cafes in Hanoi.
I found the best way to enjoy the cafe culture was through sitting in open plan cafes and watching the chaos unfold on the street in front of me.
Some very unique travel moments… That’s for sure!
Enjoying the cafe culture of Hanoi.
Learning the art of crossing the street.
It might sound strange, but crossing the street in Hanoi is a whole experience in itself.
It feels like a city with barely any rules on the roads, similar to many places I visited in Thailand.
I found that the trick is to step out slowly, move at a steady pace, and don’t hesitate. The scooters will weave around you… somehow!
It can be intimidating at first, but it is a big part of the local culture, and one that can be enjoyed.
Scooters everywhere.
Street art & colonial architecture.
One of the first things I noticed walking around Hanoi was just how visually interesting the city is.
There’s this mix of French colonial buildings with peeling yellow paint, wooden shutters, and balconies full of plants — right next to narrow Vietnamese shop-houses with scooters parked halfway inside.
It’s a mix of old vs new, in the best possible way.
That combo of faded elegance and everyday hustle gives Hanoi its unique aesthetic.
It felt like every side street was photo-worthy, even if it's just a crumbling wall or a tangle of overhead cables.
Some unique architecture.
But my favourite spot for visuals?
👉 Phùng Hưng Mural Street.
It’s a tucked-away spot where the railway bridge arches have been turned into colourful murals showing scenes from daily Vietnamese life — from flower vendors and temple visits to kids playing games in the street.
I loved seeing how the art blends tradition and creativity, and it’s also one of the quieter spots to soak in some culture without the crowds.
If you're into photography or just love seeing a city through its colours and textures, Hanoi's architecture and street art won’t disappoint.
Some historical street art at Phung Hung Mural Street.
A deep dive into Vietnamese culture.
Hanoi isn’t just a capital city… It’s a window into Vietnam’s soul.
Places like the Vietnamese Women’s Museum and the Temple of Literature give you a proper glimpse into traditional Vietnamese values.
I learned about stuff like ancestor worship, confucian roots, and how big family life is for the locals.
You’ll also see old-school propaganda posters plastered all over the city, and I mean everywhere…
On walls, shop shutters, even in cafés. They’re bold, colourful, and full of pride. A reminder of Vietnam’s complex past and how deeply history still runs through daily life.
I noticed something similar during my time in Hoi An.
I got even more insight into this side of Vietnam when I explored the Cu Chi Tunnels near Saigon — check out that blog for a deeper dive into the war history and resilience of the Vietnamese people.
Propaganda posters.
Local temples & quiet rituals.
One of the things that I love about Hanoi is the way the city still manages to feel spiritual even in the chaos.
I visited a couple of tucked-away temples in side streets, with very few tourists, just peace, quiet, and local traditions.
If you find one, pause and take it in. It’s a beautiful moment of calm.
Entrance to Ngoc Son Temple.
Ngoc Son Temple, set right on Hoan Kiem Lake, is one of the most accessible and scenic spots to experience this side of the city.
You can cross the iconic red bridge, soak in the views from the platform, and learn a little about the legendary turtle that locals believe protects the lake.
I felt as though I was experiencing authentic Vietnam at this point!
A picturesque setting.
Morning strolls & lakeside life.
I found some rare peace and tranquility in Hanoi each morning as I walked around Hoan Kiem Lake.
The lake is aesthetic, and breaks up the chaos near the Old Quarter, with very few scooters around.
I made sure I hit my daily step count by taking a slow stroll around the lake each day, which helped burn off the beers and bun cha!
As I mentioned above, don’t miss the view of Turtle Tower sitting in the centre of the lake — and for an even better perspective, head to the platform inside Ngoc Son Temple for a peaceful lookout over the whole lake.
Lake life.
The friendliest locals.
Without a doubt from my experiences… One of the best things about Hanoi? The people.
From stall owners helping me understand, and pronounce Vietnamese dishes, to random locals offering directions with a smile.. One guy even gave me a free lift to catch the bus for my day trip, when I got a little lost.
Even with a slight language barrier, they go above and beyond to help you. I found this to be the case throughout Asia in my backpacking adventure.
I felt welcome the whole time, especially in the Old Quarter where locals are used to curious travellers like myself wandering past their daily life.
There are some awesome Bahn Mi spots in Hanoi.
Hanoi’s unbeatable street food scene.
If you’re heading to Hanoi and not planning to eat your bodyweight in street food… Rethink your trip.
It was a true highlight during my time in the capital!
Seriously, the street food here is next-level. It’s cheap (and I mean cheap!), full of flavour, and absolutely everywhere.
And unlike other places where you might hesitate over hygiene, in Hanoi, the busiest spots usually mean the best bowls, and some of my tastiest meals came from side streets where I randomly found myself.. Day and night!
Here’s some of my favourites…
Delicious.
From pho & bun cha to egg coffee.
Pho in the morning hits different in Hanoi. I grabbed mine from a family-run place just down the road from my hotel in the Old Quarter… Think steaming broth, paper-thin beef, and mountains of herbs, all for less than £1.
But Bun Cha might just be my favourite.
If you haven’t tried it yet, imagine grilled pork patties served in a tangy broth, with noodles, fresh greens, and chilli on the side. A lunchtime classic, and an absolute must.
I really was addicted to this dish in Vietnam.
A beautiful bun cha.
Then there’s egg coffee (Cà Phê Trứng).
It sounds weird, but tastes incredible. The creamy, meringue-like top makes it feel like dessert in a cup.
I tried many egg coffees during my time in Vietnam, however, Café Giang is where it all started — so definitely worth a stop.
👉 Want to try it all without the guesswork? Book a Hanoi street food tour here and eat like a local.
Egg coffee.
Tiny stools & dingy corners.
Don’t be put off by plastic stools and dim alleyways, that’s where the best stuff happens. This is how I found some absolute gems during my wanders.
My favourite banh mi of the trip came from Bánh Mì 25…
A crunchy baguette, packed with meat, pickled veg, herbs, and chilli. Perfection.
There’s something about eating on a street corner with scooters whizzing past and locals chatting loudly next to you. It’s pure Hanoi.
Honestly? Skip the fancy restaurants for a day or two. Street food is where this city shows off.
My budget went much further than I ever expected, all while eating like a king!
Street life in teh Vietnamese capital.
Overrated or authentic? Hanoi vs the tourist hype.
One thing I kept wondering before I arrived was… ‘Is Hanoi going to feel too touristy?’
Honest thoughts… Not really.
There are definitely a few spots that have clearly been built around the Instagram crowd, such as Train Street, or one of my favourite cafes ‘The Note Cafe’, however, these are only small areas of the capital.
I did actually enjoy the hype around Train Street, and I found the vibe to be fun.
Seeing all the tourists squeezed onto little stools, all waiting for that moment the train flies past, just a metre from their face in unique.
As is the famous bottle cap tradition!
Hard to get a good photo.
Very busy.
Now contrast that with some of the local markets in Hanoi…
These feel like the real authentic Vietnam.
Places like Dong Xuan Market or even some smaller street stalls around the outskirts of the Old Quarter feel totally different… I didn’t see many tourists at all.
At times walking around Hanoi is like stepping back in time, as it just has that old fashioned vibe.
The tourist areas can be in your face in certain parts of the capital, however, you don’t have to walk far to find that authenticity.
Book a Local-Led Food Tour in Hanoi.
Want to find the best hidden eateries without getting lost in the chaos?
I recommend this local food tour — I tried it myself and discovered street food I never would’ve found solo.
👉 Book it here.
A quieter scene.
The best day trips from Hanoi.
Hanoi is the perfect place to base yourself in the North of Vietnam, as it is close to many of the popular day trips…
I found myself in the capital several times in between my different adventures.
Here are three you can add to your Hanoi itinerary:
Ninh Binh.
I can only describe Ninh Binh as like Halong Bay if someone dropped it into a rice field.
Think… Dramatic limestone cliffs, fun boat rides through caves, and some awesome cycling routes - with a view!
👉 Compare Ninh Binh day tours here — easy, no hassle.
Perfume Pagoda.
This one feels more under the radar - a Buddhist complex is built into limestone hills.
Getting there involves a small boat ride up a river — A fun journey.
Halong Bay
Most people base Halong Bay trips from Hanoi.
It’s a bit of a trek, however, my personal experience was awesome.
My day trip ran so smoothly all day, and our guide was so good!
Well worth it you’re short on time:
👉 This was the exact tour I booked.
An awesome day trip to Ha Long Bay.
Is Hanoi cheap or expensive?
If you’re wondering whether Hanoi is budget-friendly, the short answer is yes…
It’s one of the best-value cities in Asia, and I found my budget went very far on my backpacking trip.
Food prices.
Local street food (pho, banh mi, bun cha): 30,000–60,000 VND (£1–2).
Trendy cafés or Western brunch: 80,000–200,000 VND (£3–6).
I often enjoyed a meal and a coffee for the same cost as a coffee in my home city.
Accommodation.
Budget hostels: from £3–5 per night.
Mid-range hotels/guesthouses: £10–25 with AC and private bathrooms.
Boutique stays with rooftop views: from £30–50 — best value.
More delights.
Getting around.
Grab (Vietnam’s Uber): super cheap — most rides under £1
Local buses: pennies
Walking: Old Quarter is very walkable (but chaotic!)
Extras.
Attractions & museums: Most cost under £2–3.
Coffee (yes, including egg coffee): 30,000–50,000 VND (£1–1.50).
Beer (Bia Hoi): 10,000 VND (less than 50p!).
Day Trips to Ha Long Bay or Ninh Binh - (£50).
Hanoi is insanely affordable — even for budget backpackers.
Enjoying a Hanoi beer waiting for the train.
Is Hanoi safe?
Yes, Hanoi is generally a safe city for travellers.
Violent crime is rare, and most visitors feel comfortable walking around, even at night.
The main thing to watch out for is the traffic, especially scooters, as when I was navigating them, they were constantly ignoring signals and pavements.
Petty scams and overcharging can happen in tourist areas, but they’re easy to avoid with a bit of common sense. I found Ho Chi Minh City to be a lot worse in terms of inflated taxis, or money switching.
I advise you to stick to bottled water, make sure you choose busy street food stalls, and use apps like Grab for safe transport.
You’ll be absolutely fine following this advice!
A fun tour.
Where to stay in Hanoi.
Hanoi has a mix of lively backpacker areas, relaxed local neighbourhoods, and everything in between. Here’s a quick guide to the most popular areas to base yourself:
Old Quarter.
Best for: First-timers, street food, nightlife, café culture.
Vibe: Busy, walkable, and packed with plenty of character.
Downside: Noisy and busy — but that’s Hanoi’s charm which you need to experience!
If you want to be right in the action, this is the place to be
French Quarter.
Best for: Colonial architecture, museums, slightly more upscale feel.
Vibe: Quieter, wide boulevards, elegant buildings (Like a European city in parts).
Downside: Slightly more expensive than the Old Quarter, but the peace can be worth it.
A great pick if you want a more peaceful stay without being too far from the centre.
West Lake (Tay Ho).
Best for: Long-term stays, digital nomads, sunset views.
Vibe: Trendy expat neighbourhood with lakeside cafés and yoga studios (I enjoyed Crossfit Tay Ho daily).
Downside: Not as central, I had to use Grab.
Perfect if you’ve already seen the Old Quarter and want to chill out.
Where I stayed:
I booked a few nights at Hanoi Plaza Suite.
It was very clean, great value, and the location couldn’t have been better - tucked away in a quiet street just minutes from the buzz of the Old Quarter.
A very nice stay.
How to get around Hanoi.
Getting around Hanoi was definitely one of the more fun (and slightly chaotic) parts of my time in the Vietnamese capital.
I didn’t dare ride a scooter though — the traffic here is on another level!
Walking is the best way to explore the Old Quarter and nearby attractions.
The streets are chaotic, but once you get used to dodging scooters (and walking in the road), it’s a fun way to take in the energy.
For longer journeys I opted for Grab (Vietnam’s version of Uber), as it is cheap, reliable, and safer than haggling with some local taxis.
You’ll also spot plenty of xe om (motorbike taxis), which are fast and very local. Make sure you agree on a price before hopping on if you're not using the app.
Personal Tip: I wouldn’t recommend renting your own scooter in Hanoi unless you're very confident. The traffic here is wild compared to other parts of Southeast Asia where I rode a motorbike.
Anothe day, another tour.
My essential Hanoi travel tips.
These quick tips will help you make the most of your trip to Vietnam’s capital:
Stay central (Old Quarter or French Quarter).
It’ll save you time (and Grab fares), plus you’ll be within walking distance of top spots. I found it was a little noisy at times, but that is the charm of the capital.
Use Grab for getting around.
Cheap, reliable, and safer than haggling with taxis — especially for airport transfers. I have had some awkward experiences with taxis in Vietnam, so I would not recommend them.
Pack for all seasons.
Hanoi can get surprisingly chilly in winter (Dec–Feb), so bring a layer or two. I was shocked after arriving from Thailand in February. This is a good month for warm weather in Da Nang though.
Master the art of crossing the street
Traffic won’t stop — just walk slowly and let scooters weave around you. They are used to the chaos.
Respect local customs
Wear modest clothing at temples and remove shoes when required (same as many places in Asia).
Try egg coffee at a local café.
A must! I loved Café Giang, and it serves the original. Well worth the hype.
Always carry small cash.
Markets, street food stalls, and taxis often won’t take cards. I also experienced this during my time in Da Nang.
More propaganda?
Frequently asked questions about visiting Hanoi.
Before I arrived, I had a bunch of questions about what to expect — so here are some quick answers to the things I was most curious about:
How many days should I spend in Hanoi?
2–4 days is ideal for most travellers - that gives you time to explore the Old Quarter, visit key attractions like Hoàn Kiếm Lake, Train Street, and the Temple of Literature — and still have time to sip egg coffee and soak up the café culture. This 3 day itinerary is ideal.
What’s Hanoi best known for?
Hanoi is famous for:
The Old Quarter and its chaotic energy.
Egg coffee (try Café Giang).
Train Street, a quirky street where a train passes inches from cafés.
Vietnamese street food like pho, bun cha, and banh mi.
Its blend of French colonial and Vietnamese architecture.
Is Hanoi better than Ho Chi Minh City?
They're very different.
Hanoi is more traditional, compact, cooler in temperature, and full of cultural heritage.
Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) is bigger, hotter, more modern, and faster-paced.
For history, old-school charm, and authentic northern cuisine — Hanoi takes the win for me.
How to get from Hanoi to Halong Bay?
It’s about 2.5 to 3.5 hours by road.
The easiest way is to book a Halong Bay tour that includes transport from Hanoi (many offer hotel pickup). My bucket list day was a true highlight in Vietnam.
👉 Check out the exact tour I booked here.
A quieter spot at Train Street.
So… is Hanoi worth visiting?
Absolutely.
Hanoi gave me a very unique experience on my Asia backpacking trip…
A perfect mix of cultural depth, street-level chaos, amazing food, and moments of calm tucked into its famous cafe culture.
It’s one of the best places to visit in Vietnam as a curious traveller!
Yeah, some parts feel touristy (that packed Train Street), but step a few blocks away and you’ll find steaming bowls of pho on plastic stools, ancient temples with zero crowds, and genuine, everyday Vietnamese life.
Whether you're backpacking through Southeast Asia, planning a food-focused trip, or just curious about Vietnam’s capital…
Hanoi absolutely deserves a spot on your Vietnam itinerary.
Disclosure: I sometimes use affiliate marketing. This will not cost you anything, but helps with my travel costs. I only recommend companies I use myself.