The best time to visit Hanoi is in the spring (March and April) and autumn (September to November) when the weather is more pleasant with milder temperatures and less rain. The spring also sees the blooming of flowers, while autumn brings cooler breezes and less humidity.
Top tourist attractions in Hanoi include the Old Quarter, Hoàn Ki?m Lake, the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, the Temple of Literature, Th?ng Long Imperial Citadel, the Hanoi Opera House, and the One Pillar Pagoda. Visitors should also experience a traditional Water Puppet show and the bustling Dong Xuan Market.
A stay of 3-4 days is typically recommended for Hanoi. This allows enough time to explore the main sights, enjoy the local cuisine, and immerprise in the city's atmosphere without rushing through the attractions.
Local Hanoi specialties include Ph? (Vietnamese noodle soup), Bún ch? (grilled pork with rice noodles), Ch? cá (turmeric grilled fish with dill), Bánh mì (Vietnamese sandwich), and Egg coffee. Street food tours are a great way to sample these dishes.
When visiting religious sites, dress conservatively and remove shoes if required. It's respectful to avoid public displays of affection and to greet older people first as a sign of respect. Moreover, haggling is a common practice in markets, but it should be done politely.
The currency used in Hanoi is the Vietnamese Dong (VND). Money can be exchanged at banks, official currency exchange booths, and some hotels. ATMs are widely available, and credit cards are accepted in modern retail outlets and higher-end restaurants.
Tourists in Hanoi can use various transport options, including public buses, taxis, motorbike taxis (xe ôm), and the recently launched metro system. For an authentic experience, many visitors opt to rent bicycles or electric scoots or take guided cyclo (pedicab) tours, especially around the Old Quarter.
Visa requirements for Vietnam depend on your nationality and the length of your stay. Many countries have visa exemption agreements for stays under 15 days, while others may need to apply for a visa in advance or obtain a visa on arrival. Always check the latest visa regulations with a nearby Vietnamese embassy or the official immigration website before planning your trip.
Hanoi is generally safe for tourists. However, like any major city, it's advisable to take precautions against petty crimes such as pickpocketing, especially in crowded places. It's also wise to be careful when crossing streets, as traffic can be chaotic.
Yes, you can use foreign phones in Hanoi, but you will need a local SIM card to access local rates for calls and data. SIM cards are easily available at the airport, convenience stores, and mobile phone shops. Free Wi-Fi is commonly offered in cafes, restaurants, and hotels.
