Ultimate Hanoi Tour Guide » Mumbai Ki Chori

Planning Vietnam? And wondering where you should start exploring? Or what should be the ideal destinations for Vietnam? These are a few sets of questions that popped up in my head too while I was planning my itinerary for Vietnam.

In this blog we would be covering the capital city of Hanoi, where I landed first. Ideally you can start planning the itinerary either north or sound bound. Majorly people start with the South that is Ho Chi Minh city then move to the Central part and lastly end the trip in the north, Hanoi.

Hanoi is one of the oldest and most beautiful cities in Vietnam. It is located in the north-central part of the country, on the banks of the Red River. The city has a rich history, from being the imperial capital of Vietnam to its pivotal role in the Vietnam War. It is a bustling metropolis with a colonial-era district and an impressive array of ancient architecture. Today, it’s a vibrant cultural center with plenty to see and do. Hanoi is known for its pagodas, festivals, and beautiful landscapes.

Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam, is a fascinating mix of East and West. Dating back to the 11th century, Hanoi has seen many wars that are now history. The French colonists left their mark on the city, which is evident in the architecture and cuisine.

Hanoi‘s architecture is a mix of French colonial and traditional Vietnamese styles. The old city has a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and its architecture is well-preserved. The French buildings are mostly in the downtown area, while the traditional Vietnamese buildings are in the older parts of the city.

The city is also home to ancient temples and colonial-era buildings, as well as lively markets and restaurants. It’s a fascinating city to explore. Some of the highlights include the Temple of Literature, the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, the Ngoc Son Temple, and the Hanoi Opera House. There are also lots of great markets, including Dong Xuan Market, where you can find everything from souvenirs to street food.

Climate in Hanoi

The climate in Hanoi is tropical and monsoonal. The average temperature is about 23 °C (73 °F) with temperatures reaching as high as 37 °C (99 °F) in the summer months. April, May, and June are the hottest months, while January and February are the coldest. Hanoi experiences a great deal of rainfall, with an annual average of 1,750 millimeters (69 inches). The wettest months are August and September, while December is the driest.

The weather in Hanoi varies greatly depending on the season. In the winter, the temperature can drop below freezing and there is a lot of rainfall. In the summer, it is very hot and humid with occasional rainstorms. The spring and fall are both mild.

I had planned my trip in the month of June, so the weather was pleasant and in our favor. We hardly got any showers or storms. Though I was skeptical about the trip being spoiled by the monsoon, each part of Vietnam had different shades of weather. Hanoi was extremely hot and humid in the month of June as compared to other cities.

Best Time to Visit Hanoi

There isn’t one definitive answer to this question as everyone’s preferences vary, but generally speaking, the best time to visit Hanoi is in the spring or autumn. The weather is pleasantly mild during these seasons and there’s less of a chance of rainfall than in the summer months. Another good time to go is in late October or early November when the city celebrates its annual harvest festival. That said, Hanoi is a great destination to visit at any time of year – each season has its unique charms.

If you’re looking to enjoy the city’s vibrant nightlife and bustling markets, then go during winter when the weather is cooler. And if you want to avoid the crowds, try visiting in summer when temperatures can be quite high.

Whichever season you choose, make sure you take advantage of all that Hanoi has to offer – from its delicious food to its fascinating history.

Country Visa for Hanoi

You can apply for e-visa online via their portal and receive it within 3-4 days. However, Indian citizens are eligible for visas on arrival, so they need to keep the required documents for the visa on arrival process.

Read more about the Visa on my Vietnam Itinerary Guide.

Flight for Hanoi

Many airlines offer direct flights from Mumbai to Hanoi, such as VietJet Airlines, Indigo, Thai Airways, Cathay Pacific, and Singapore Airlines. Tickets for these flights usually cost anywhere from Rs. 10,000 to Rs. 50,000 depending on the season and the airline. Several direct routes can be taken from Mumbai to Hanoi, which usually involves no stopover in Bangkok or Hong Kong.

If you’re looking for a flight from Mumbai to Hanoi, there are plenty of options available. You can find tickets for as low as Rs. 15,000 if you book well in advance. Some of the airlines that fly to Hanoi are VietJet and Indigo. The best way to find the cheapest flight tickets is to use a flight search engine such as Skyscanner or Kayak. I got good offer deals on kayak.com and Skyscanner, do check them out before booking on other platforms.

Vietjet Airlines offers flights from India to Hanoi, making it easy and convenient for travelers to get to Vietnam. This airline offers several convenient flight times, to book a trip that fits your schedule. Also, Vietjet is a low-cost carrier, so tickets are affordable. One drawback of this airline is that the airline is relatively new and does not have as much experience as some of the other airlines. This means that there may be some glitches in terms of service and aircraft maintenance. If you are flying Vietjet they are very affordable only if you have 7kg cabin luggage but if you have check in luggage you will have to upgrade your package that would still fit your budget.

Currency Exchange in Hanoi

Hanoi accepts Vietnamese Dong as it does the rest of the country. One Indian Rupee is equal to nearly Three hundred and fifty Vietnamese Dong. If you want to exchange money, you can go to a bank or a Gold shop.

The best option is to convert the Indian currency to USD and further exchange them with local gold shops as they give the best rates. The exchange rate between the U.S. Dollar and Dong is about 1 USD=2,336,000 Dong. We roughly got around 2,650,000 VND for 100 USD at gold shops. This conversion rate will keep changing at different jewelry shops and cities so the best way is to look for 2-3 options before taking a final call.

Language Barrier in Hanoi

The Vietnamese language is widely spoken in Hanoi, but it is pretty different from the accent spoken in other parts of Vietnam. This is because Hanoi was once part of French Indochina and has therefore been influenced by French culture and language. As a result, many locals in Hanoi are bilingual and can speak both Vietnamese and French. However, the city has a pretty large number of English-speaking people including locals, hotel staff, drivers, and vendors.

Communication can be a problem with local vendors or service people, as they will not be able to understand English properly. The best way is to download a google translator, trust me it is the most convenient thing to do. Use the google translator app, it works wonders. https://translate.google.com/

Where to Stay in Hanoi

If you’re looking for a place to stay in Hanoi, there are plenty of hotels to choose from. Hanoi is a big city with plenty of accommodation options, from luxury hotels to budget hostels. If you’re looking for a bargain, many budget hotels in Hanoi offer decent accommodation and value for your money.

Hostels can also be a great way to save money on accommodation, and many also include breakfast in the price. Dorm rooms are the most common type of accommodation, but there are often private rooms available as well.

If you’re looking for a more authentic experience, consider staying in a homestay. Homestays are a great way to get to know Vietnamese culture and meet locals. There are many homestay options in Hanoi, and most include breakfast and dinner.

I came across Wecozy on Instagram, yes not airbnb nor booking.com but Instagram. Looking at their feed, it instantly felt this is the right option to book and stay in Hanoi. Weczoy had a wide range of homestay apartments to pick from. From studio to one bedroom to two bedroom and also duplex apartments you name it they it all. Read about my homestay experience.

Airport Transfer in Hanoi

When you arrive in Hanoi, the first thing you need to do is to get to your destination. There are several options for airport transport: taxi, private car or bus. The most convenient option is to hire a taxi or private car. However, it could cost more money, around 1000-2000 INR.

If you want to save money, you can take a bus from the airport to the city center. The fare is around 135 INR and several buses run from the airport to different parts of the city. However, be aware that there may be a long wait for a bus during rush hour.

Getting Around in Hanoi

Getting around in a city can be a bit tricky, especially if you’re not familiar with the city. A good way to get around is by tour – many companies offer tours of different parts of the city. This is a great way to see all the sights without having to worry about getting lost or figuring out the public transportation system. But this would cost you more, so be ready to splurge more.

Another way is by car or taxi. Taxis are the most popular way to get around. Taxis are everywhere in the city and they’re affordable. You can usually find a taxi right outside your hotel. Though it can be a little expensive during peak hours or airport drops, if you are not looking for a private tour you can always grab a cab. If you’re traveling solo, the best option is to grab a bike, it comes at half the price as compared to the cab fare.

The last way to get around is to rent a motorbike. Not only is it affordable, but it’s also the easiest way to get around town. But it is important to be aware of your surroundings at all times when riding in Vietnam. I had rented bikes in two major cities, and it cost me 500 Rs per day as rent. It is really cheap as compared to buses too, as you will save a lot of time and it is convenient to find parking spots across the city. Just be sure to wear a helmet and practice safe driving habits to avoid any accidents.

Places to See in Hanoi

Hanoi old quarter- train street

The old quarter and train street are two of the most popular attractions to include in the Hanoi tour guide. The old quarter is a maze of narrow streets that are lined with traditional houses and small shops. It’s a great place to wander around and explore.

If you’re looking for something a little more modern, check out Train Street. It got its name because the tracks run right down the middle of the street. The train passes just a few meters away from you. Watch trains go by while you enjoy a meal or a drink at one of the restaurants or bars along the street.

P.S. make sure to confirm the weekday timing because of COVID-19 many trains get canceled and only pass by after 9:00 pm.

Hanoi French Quarter

One of the popular areas to include in the Hanoi tour guide is the French Quarter. This district is home to many colonial-era buildings and is a great place to explore on foot. This district is packed with colonial-era architecture, art galleries, trendy restaurants, and lively nightlife venues. The French Quarter is also a great place to enjoy a meal or a drink, with plenty of restaurants and bars to choose from.

Tip: At night make sure you head to Bia Hoi corner, the lane is packed with street food and local brews. Here beer is cheaper than Water.

Hoan Kiem Lake & Ngoc Son Temple

Hoan Kiem Lake is the most popular tourist site included in the Hanoi tour guide. It is located in the heart of the city and is a great place to relax and take in the scenery. The lake is surrounded by parks, gardens, and historical buildings, making it a perfect place for a stroll or a picnic lunch.

Lying on an island in the Hoan Kiem Lake, Ngoc Son Temple is dedicated to the god of the lake – a figure that represents the Vietnamese resistance against Chinese occupation.

The temple was first constructed in the 14th century, making it one of the oldest in Hanoi. Visitors can admire its unique architecture as well as take in stunning views of the cityscape from its grounds.

Hoan Kiem Lake: The lake is open all day and free to access.

Ngoc Son Temple: 20,000 VND (65-70 INR) | Time: 7:30 AM – 5:30 PM

One Pillar Pagoda

The One Pillar Pagoda is one of the most popular tourist destinations included in the Hanoi tour guide. It was built by Emperor Ly Thai To in 1049 and is dedicated to his mother. The pagoda has a single pillar that stands in the center of the building and is said to represent the tree that once stood there. The pagoda sits on a single pillar in the middle of a lotus pond and is surrounded by a pavilion.

Fees: 25,000 VND (80-85 INR) | 8:00 AM – 11:30 AM Weekdays & 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM Weekends, Tues-Thurs

Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum

There are many places to see in Hanoi, but one of the most popular tourist destinations included in the Hanoi tour guide is Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum. The mausoleum is the final resting place of Vietnam’s first president, Ho Chi Minh. It’s located in the center of Ba Dinh Square and is open every day except Monday and Friday. The mausoleum is a large building that houses the remains of Vietnam’s communist leader, Ho Chi Minh. Visitors can tour the inside of the building and see his body lying in state.

Tip: Make sure to wear full clothes, sleeves and skirts or shots are not allowed. We made the same mistake and made sure to follow this law. You will not be allowed to film or take pictures once you are inside the Mausoleum.

Fees: 35,000 VND (120 INR) | 8:00 AM – 11:00 AM (Last entry 10:15 AM)

Temple of Literature

Another popular tourist destination to include in the Hanoi tour guide is the Temple of Literature. The temple was originally built in 1070 as a center for Confucian studies. This temple is dedicated to Confucius and the scholars who passed the imperial examination. It is one of the most important cultural relics in Hanoi. Today, it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and home to a large collection of ancient Vietnamese literature.

Fees: 30,000 VND (100-110 INR) | 7:30 AM – 6:00 PM Tues-Sun

St. Josephs' Cathedral

Josephs’ Cathedral Hanoi is a Roman Catholic cathedral located in the Ba Dinh District of Hanoi, Vietnam. It is the cathedral of the Archdiocese of Hanoi. The cathedral was built between 1884 and 1891 and was consecrated on 8 December 1891 by Pierre-Marie-Alphonse Favier, Bishop of Hanoi. The cathedral was designed by Alexandre Vallaury, who also designed the Saint Joseph’s Cathedral in Bangkok. The cathedral is built in a neo-Gothic style and is one of the largest cathedrals in Southeast Asia.

Fees: Free | 8:00 AM – 12:00 NOON | 2:00 PM – 6:00 PM All day

Phung Hung Street

Another famous street is Phung Hung street in Old Quarter Hanoi, which has beautiful mural paintings recalling the past. Opened to the public in early February 2018, it is now a favorite instagram photo place and cultural space for city dwellers and travelers to Hanoi.

The mural street is not just a place to visit and take photos. It’s also a recreation space with painting experience and folk games, it helps preserve and promote the heritages of Hanoi and enable locals and visitors to learn more about Hanoi’s culture

Fees: Free to access anytime

Other Attractions

There are many places to include in the Hanoi tour guide that are not included in the typical tourist itinerary. One of these places is the Hoa Lo Prison, also known as the “Hanoi Hilton.” The prison was built by the French in 1896 and used to detain Vietnamese revolutionaries. It is now a museum that tells the history of the prison and Vietnam’s fight for independence.

Another great place to visit in Hanoi is the Imperial Citadel of Thang Long. This citadel was built in 1010 and served as the political and religious center of Vietnam for over 700 years. The citadel is open every day from 7:30 am-5 pm.

If you like watching opera you must visit the Hanoi Opera House, make sure to book your tickets well in advance, it is a colonial building and the largest theater in Vietnam. Ideally the show would you roughly cost you around 3,00,000 VND (1200-1500 INR)

Few more addons if you have more days to explore are Tran Quoc Pagoda, Hang Trong Garden, Thien Quang Lake, Long Bien Bridge, Museum of Ethnology.

Hanoi Side Trips

There are more places which can be explored in the northern part of Vietnam including Hanoi. If you have time you can cover the following places too. I had limited time in hand so the best I could fit in my plan was Ha Long Bay, where I spent a night and 2 days.

Ha Long Bay

Many visitors to Hanoi choose to take a day trip to Ha Long Bay, one of Vietnam’s most popular tourist destinations. The bay is filled with dramatic limestone cliffs and is home to thousands of species of plants and animals. The bay also has caves that can be explored by boat. There are also plenty of beaches and floating villages to check out. Visitors can explore the bay by boat or kayak, or visit one of the many caves in the area.

Read more about Climate, stay, transfer and more baout Ha Long Bay here.

Ninh Binh

Ninh Binh is home to some of the most stunning natural scenery in the country. The area is peppered with limestone karsts that rise out of the emerald green waters of the river valleys, making for some unforgettable landscapes. Ninh Binh is one of the most up-and-coming destinations in Vietnam. There are plenty of activities on offer in Ninh Binh, from cycling and hiking through the jungle-clad hills to cruisin downriver on a traditional junk boat. For those looking for a bit more culture, there are also some ancient temples and pagodas to discover. A visit to Ninh Binh is a great way to experience some of Vietnam’s natural beauty and rural traditions.

Ninh Binh is located 100km south of Hanoi and the best way to get from Hanoi to Ninh Binh is by bus or minivan.

There are buses that operate frequently on a daily basis from Hanoi to Ninh Binh and the journey takes around 2.5 hours. Alternatively, you can pre-book a shared minivan transfer between Hanoi and Ninh Binh for only 1000-2000 INR.

Ninh Binh can be explored year-round, though between November to April it’s mostly dry and cool and when it is the peak season. May to October sees plenty of rainfall and hot humid days.

Best thing to do is hiking to the highest peak at Mua Cave. As you near the top of Mua Cave, you’ll come to the first incredible viewpoint with a spectacular view of the river Ngo Dong that cuts its way around the mountain valley. Make sure to add this in the Hanoi tour guide.

Hoa Lu

One of the most popular side trips by the Hanoi tour guide is to Hoa Lu, which is located about 90 kilometers south of Hanoi. The city was once the center of power for Vietnam and is now a popular tourist destination. The highlight of any visit to Hoa Lu is the chance to see the well-preserved ruins of the temples that once stood here. Other attractions in Hoa Lu include walking through the rice paddies, visiting local villages, a beautiful waterfall, and some excellent hiking trails.

Read more here: https://www.vietnamonline.com/attraction/hoa-lu-ancient-capital.html

Mai Chau

Mai Chau is a beautiful valley about two hours from Hanoi, full of rice paddies and surrounded by limestone peaks. It’s a great place to relax and enjoy the scenery. The drive from Hanoi to Mai Chau is stunning, and once you arrive, the villages and rolling hills are a sight to behold. There are plenty of activities to keep you busy in Mai Chau, including cycling, hiking, and visiting the local markets. If you’re looking for a relaxing escape from the hustle and bustle of Hanoi, Mai Chau is definitely a must visit place for a Hanoi tour guide.

Read More here: https://www.vietnamonline.com/attraction/mai-chau.html

Shopping in Hanoi

Weekend Night Market

Another interesting thing about the Hanoi tour guide is to make your way to Hanoi Street, which is famous for its weekend night markets. The atmosphere is vibrant and exciting, and the markets are a great place to people-watch. Here you’ll find everything from clothes and accessories to food and drinks. It’s a great place to pick up some souvenirs or just browse the stalls for some interesting stuff. Some of the best items for sale at the night markets include hand-made jewelry, silk scarves, and traditional Vietnamese cuisine.

Location: Hoan Kiem Lake, the entire street surrounding the lake is blocked, and you will find amazing LIVE entertainment shows and other activities like flash mops etc. happening around.

Time: only weekends | start after 7:00 PM till late night

Trang Tien, five minutes walk down from Hoan Kiem lake, is itself an interesting street packed with art galleries and bookstores.

Some extremely superior and luxurious shopping centers like Vincom, Parkson, The Garden, Grand Plaza can also be checked out and the other reasonably priced shopping centers are Big C, Pico Plaza supermarket.

You also should drop by Hang Duong –jam street– where you can taste the most famous candied fruits in Hanoi and Hang Gai street which is lined with a series of souvenir shops.

Food in Hanoi

If there’s one thing that Hanoi knows how to do, it’s food and the vast array of food and drink options available in Hanoi. The city is filled with delicious restaurants, street food stalls, and local markets. Whether you’re looking for a quick snack or a full meal, you can find something to eat here. And if you’re looking for a drink, Hanoi has plenty of options as well.

For drinks, start at one of the city’s many sky bars. These rooftop bars offer stunning views of the cityscape and offer a wide variety of cocktails and beers. If you’re looking for something more unique, head to one of Hanoi’s weekend night markets. Here you’ll find all sorts of local beers and spirits, as well as food stalls selling everything from pho to grilled meats.

Read detailed blog on Vietnamese food.

Some famous food Stops

Train street cafes

One of the most popular types of cafes in Hanoi is the train street cafe. These cafes are named for their location - on or near train tracks. The train street cafes offer great people-watching opportunities. You can watch the locals go about their day, as well as see the trains go by. The trains are quite loud, so don't be surprised if your conversation at the cafe is interrupted by one! The cafes themselves are usually quite small, with limited seating. They're often crowded, so be prepared to share a table with others. The food and drinks at these cafes are generally quite cheap, making them a great option for budget-minded travelers. Address: 47 Train Street Le Duan, Hanoi 100000 Vietnam

Giang Cafe

One dish that I fell in love with is egg coffee, which can be found at Giangcafe. The cafe is located in an old French villa and is a favorite among locals and tourists. The coffee is made with eggs, sugar, condensed milk, and butter, and has a thick, creamy texture. It is served with a piece of cheese or chocolate on top and is the perfect way to start your day in Hanoi. It's made by mixing an egg with coffee and sugar, then pouring it into a glass with condensed milk. It's delicious and worth trying if you're ever in Hanoi! Address: 39 Nguyễn Hữu Huân, Lý Thái Tổ, Hoàn Kiếm, Hanoi, Vietnam

Terraco Sky Bar

If you're looking for a place to enjoy happy hour and take in one of the best views of Hanoi, Terraco Sky Bar is the spot for you. Located on the top floor, this bar offers stunning panoramic views of the cityscape. The drinks are reasonably priced and they often offer specials during happy hour. There's a wide selection of cocktails and wines to choose from. If you're feeling peckish, there's also a range of light snacks on offer. If you're looking for a romantic or special evening out, the Terraco Sky Bar should be at the top of your list. Address: Rooftop Floor, 33-35 Hang Dau St., Hoan Kiem Dist., Hanoi - Vietnam

Xofa Café & Bistro

The Xofa Cafe & Bistro offers a variety of traditional Vietnamese dishes as well as international favorites. They serve up a delicious breakfast of fresh croissants, sandwiches, coffee, and tea. If you're looking for something a little heartier, Thanh Long Quan is another great option. They serve traditional Vietnamese breakfast dishes like pho and banh mi. The atmosphere is cozy and comfortable, and the staff is friendly and helpful. If you're looking for a delicious and affordable breakfast in Hanoi, be sure to check out Xofa Cafe & Bistro! Address: 14 Tong Duy Tan Hoan Kiem, Hanoi 100000 Vietnam

49 Bat Dan Street

One of the most popular dishes to try in Hanoi is chicken pho, which can be found at 49 Bat Dan street. The broth is made with chicken and cinnamon, and the dish is garnished with bean sprouts, basil, and lime. The broth is flavorful and the chicken is cooked to perfection, making it a perfect meal on a cold day. The restaurant is small and cramped, but the food is delicious and cheap. And be sure to order a cold beer or a glass of sweet iced tea to complete your meal. Address: 49 Bat Dan Street, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi

Hanoi Budget

It is possible to save money on a tour by doing some careful research in advance, but even the cheapest tours can be expensive when compared with traveling on your own. A good way to get an overview of the city and its attractions is to take a day tour, which usually includes a visit to the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, the Temple of Literature, and a cyclo ride through the old quarter. These tours usually cost between 1500-2500 INR per person.

The best way to explore Hanoi on a budget is to take a walking tour or rent a bike and explore the city on your own. There are many different tours to choose from, but the best way to find one is by asking your hotel or hostel staff for recommendations. Another great way to explore the city on a budget is by renting a bike. Not only is it a great way to get around, but it’s also a fun way to see the city.

For those looking for something more adventurous, there are plenty of day tours available that will take you outside of the city. These tours can be expensive, but if you’re on a tight budget, some options are more affordable.

When it comes to stay the budget friendly options are hostels and homestays and later the hotels. You will be spending roughly around 500-800 per night if you opt for hostels, 1000-1500 per night if you opt for homestays and 2000 plus per night for hotels.

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Hanoi Travel Tips

When visitingHanoi, there are a few things that you should keep in mind.

The city is extremely crowded, so be prepared for a lot of people and traffic.
The Vietnamese use a lot of hand signals when they drive, so it’s important to be aware of this before crossing the street.
Some people will try to take advantage of tourists, so always be alert and don’t let yourself get scammed.
Hanoi is an incredibly affordable city to visit, so make sure to take advantage of the great food and shopping on offer.
When planning your trip, be sure to consider the weather. Hanoi can be quite hot and humid during the summer months. If you’re looking for a more comfortable experience, plan your trip for the fall or winter months instead.
Learning a few phrases of Vietnamese will go a long way in making your visit more enjoyable.
It is a good idea to carry small bills and coins, as all merchants may not have the change.
Wear sunscreen and a hat, bring insect repellent, and drink lots of water.

Hanoi is a city that is rich in culture and history. There are so many things to see and do in the city, from touring the ancient temples to indulging in the delicious food. With its mix of old and new, Hanoi is a fascinating place to explore. So if you’re looking for an ultimate travel guide, be sure to add Hanoi to your list!

If you want to see the sights and enjoy the culture, then November to February is the best time to visit. The weather is cooler during these months and there are fewer tourists. However, if you want to go swimming or enjoy other outdoor activities, then March to October is the best time to visit.

How much is the daily expense?

Total daily expense: roughly you will spend around 2000-3000 per day including all these.

This is indicative figure and it is subject to change basis your liking and preference.

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