Hanoi is a city that scintillates the senses. It has a welcoming culture, a baffling history, and food so tasty it could make an ascetic cry – and all at a super affordable price!

In short, Hanoi is a dream destination for ALL types of backpackers.

When I visited in 2019 as a very broke backpacker, all of my senses were instantly assaulted (in a good way). The smells were interesting and the place had a feel unlike anything I had experienced before. The sights and sounds were so unfamiliar and the taste of the food was magical (especially the breakfast pho). 

Hanoi, Vietnam is still one of my favourite cities in the world to this day.

However, Hanoi is big and busy, which can make it confusing. It’s hard to know where the action is when the action is everywhere. Fortunately, I have written this Hanoi mega-guide, perfect to help you find the place you need!

There are great places all over! No matter what your goals are for Hanoi, you’ll be able to find the neighbourhood of your dreams.

So let’s jump right to it, here are my recommendations for where to stay in Hanoi, Vietnam.

A person standing in front of Ho Chi Minh's mausoleum in Hanoi, Vietnam
“All are born equal. The Creator has given us inviolable rights: life, liberty, and happiness!” – a quote from Uncle Ho
Image: Nic Hilditch-Short

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Where is the Best Place to Stay in Hanoi?

Aren’t too fussed about where to stay on your Hanoi visit? These are my top 3 recommendations!

Solaria Hanoi | Best Hotel in Hanoi

Solaria Hanoi

With frankly offensive skyline views from the rooftop bar, this hotel is perfect for experiencing one of Hanoi’s best luxury hotels. Breakfasts are exactly what you might expect from a top establishment, and there is a spa to drop in to for a little R & R. Definitely gets my pick for the best Hanoi Hotel!

Little Charm Hanoi Hostel | Best Hostel in Hanoi

Little Charm Hanoi Hostel

This is my choice for the absolute coolest hostel in Hanoi. Strategically located in Hoan Kiem district, (Hanoi Old Quarter), this hostel is close to the main tourist attractions. There are also plenty of upscale restaurants, cafes, and bars nearby. This hostel has a swimming pool, free wifi, and breakfast each morning. This top hostel will ensure you have a great stay in Hanoi!

Luxury apartment in the Hanoi Old Quarter | Best Airbnb in Hanoi

Luxury apartment in the Hanoi Old Quarter

This apartment is located super close to the action- without suffering the consequences of disturbing noise or bustle. Located in a villa garden, this apartment is isolated, yet central.

With decor that more closely resembles an American mansion than a Vietnamese homestay, this Airbnb will show you the best Vietnam has to offer. There is wifi, a kitchen, and room for up to four guests.

Hanoi Neighborhood Guide – Best Places to Stay in Hanoi

FIRST TIME IN HANOI
Doodles in a travel journal on Vietnam.
FIRST TIME IN HANOI

Ba Dinh

Ba Dinh is a large suburb located north of Hanoi city centre. It’s characterized by its leafy streets and laid-back atmosphere as well as it’s stunning setting along the southern shores of Lake Ho Tay

ON A BUDGET
Hoan Kiem, Hanoi
ON A BUDGET

Hoan Kiem

Hoan Kiem is the historic centre and soul of the city. Hanoi’s hectic and chaotic downtown, Hoan Kiem is packed with busy streets, vibrant temples, buzzing cafes, ancient gates and plenty of traditional shops

NIGHTLIFE
Tay Ho, Hanoi
NIGHTLIFE

Tay Ho

Tay Ho is a district located north of Hanoi city centre along the shores of Ho Tay Lake. Not long ago, Tay Ho was a cluster of fishing villages known for their sleepy and quiet atmosphere

COOLEST PLACE TO STAY
Hai Ba Trung, Hanoi
COOLEST PLACE TO STAY

Hai Ba Trung

Hai Ba Trung is a modern and lively district set in Hanoi’s city centre. Adjacent to the Old Quarter, this district is well-connected throughout Hanoi, making it a great base for exploring the city

FOR FAMILIES
O Quan Chuong
FOR FAMILIES

Truc Bach

This small residential neighbourhood sits on the southern shores of Truc Bach Lake. It is centrally located nestled between Ba Dinh, Hoan Kiem and Tay Ho, and is well-connected throughout Hanoi

Hanoi is a fascinating city that seamlessly blends old and new, east and west. It is a city bustling with energy, excitement and delicious food. If you’re backpacking Vietnam, visiting Hanoi should be an essential part of your trip.

Hanoi is the capital and second-largest city in Vietnam. It is home to more than 7.7 million people and covers an area of 3,329 square kilometres. The city is divided into 30 urban and rural districts, which are further subdivided into townlets, communes, and wards.

So Hanoi is big! Definitely worth checking out your options, unless you are ok ending up in a dodgy industrial estate miles away from anything…

…Anyway, let’s get into where to stay in Hanoi!

the famous train street in Hanoi's Old Quarter
My attempt at a nice photo of the famous train street in Hanoi’s Old Quarter.
Photo: @joemiddlehurst

Ba Dinh is the political centre of Hanoi. This is where you’ll find the president’s palace and a number of embassies, as well as Hanoi’s most visited attractions and historic landmarks.

Head east from here and you’ll arrive in Hai Ba Trung. One of the coolest neighbourhoods in Hanoi, this district is busy, modern and with plenty of hip cafes.

Travel slightly north up to Hoan Kiem, more commonly known as the Hanoi Old Quarter. The Hoan Kiem district is one of the most popular in the city, packed with temples, gates, and traditional shops. Its proximity to a bunch of top attractions, hostels, and great feeds means it is ideal for backpackers.

Continue heading north and you’ll pass through Truc Bach, a breath of fresh air. Nestled on the shores of a tiny lake, Truc Bach is a great place to enjoy a break from the hustle of central Hanoi.

Finally, let’s have a look at Tay Ho, once a sleepy fishing village, Tay Ho is now a haven for ex-pats and foreigners. This lively and vibrant neighbourhood is home to great options for dining, shopping, and nightlife. The district surrounds the popular West Lake and if you’re interested in staying long-term, check out my guide on the cost of living in Vietnam.

Hanoi’s Five Best Neighborhoods to Stay in

In this next section, I’ll give you more details about the five best neighbourhoods to stay in in Hanoi (in my humble opinion). Each caters to different travel interests, so be sure to pick the neighbourhood that’s the best fit for you!

1. Ba Dinh – Where to Stay in Hanoi for Your First Time

Ba Dinh district is a large suburb located north of the main Hanoi centre. It’s characterised by its leafy streets and laid-back atmosphere. In a stunning setting along the southern shores of West Lake, Ba Dinh district is home to many of Hanoi’s most popular tourist attractions. This is why it’s my pick for where to stay in Hanoi if you’re visiting for the first time.

Doodles in a travel journal on Vietnam.
I love to reflect and record my travels, do you?
Photo: @audyscala

Well-connected to the Hanoi Old Quarter, the Ba Dinh district is ideally located for exploring the city. From here, you can easily zip into the city centre chaos of Hanoi before retreating to your peaceful oasis in the Ba Dinh district.

There aren’t any hostels or much budget accommodation in Ba Dinh, but stay in the Old Quarter and you’ll be spoilt for choice. I’ll get to that soon. Let’s talk about life changing journalling too.

Babylon Grand Hotel | Best Hotel in Ba Dinh

Babylon Grand Luxury Hotel, one of the best hanoi hotels

Conveniently located just north of the old town, this Hanoi Hotel is a top-class stay. Attractions such as the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and Ba Dinh Square are just 20 minutes away on foot. With friendly staff, comfortable rooms, and tasty breakfasts, your time in Hanoi will be both restful and straightforward.

The air-conditioned rooms are fitted with safes, bathtubs and crucially (for any good hotel trip) minibars.

Westlake Hotel (Five Stars) | Best Luxury Hotel in Ba Dinh

Westlake Hotel is a luxury hotel. Arguably one of the best Hanoi hotels

Westlake Hotel is world famous. When in Rome eh? Or Ba Dinh square – semantics. Well, if five-star hotels come at similar prices to a standard English bed and breakfast, I can’t see any reason to say no.

With an awesome Asian/ continental breakfast, spacious rooms, and an indoor pool, this is one of the best hotels to spend a few nights in. There is a gym too, so you can stay fit on vacay! This is the best luxury hotel in Vietnam.

Luxury apartment in the Hanoi Old Quarter | Best Airbnb in Ba Dinh

Luxury apartment in the Hanoi Old Quarter

With an unbeatable location close to the bulk of Hanoian attractions, this cosy western apartment gives a home away from home feel. Enclosed within villa grounds, this stay comes with garden views, a spacious kitchen, free parking, and a dedicated workspace.

I highly recommend an evening walk to Ba Dinh Square or the Hanoi Opera House once the sun has set and the temperature has dropped (marginally but I’ll take it).

Top Things to Do in Ba Dinh

Taya posing with a vietnamese drip coffee in vietnam
But first, coffee! Vietnamese coffee is unreal.
Photo: @taya.travels
  1. Admire the Imperial Citadel of Thang Long, a stunning UNESCO World Heritage Site and an intriguing historic landmark.
  2. Go for a city sightseeing motorbike tour, accompanied by a well-practised guide.
  3. Browse more than 8,000 original artefacts at the Museum of Artillery.
  4. Dine on delicious rice noodle rolls, a local speciality.
  5. Eat savoury banh xeo pancakes.
  6. Explore the life of Vietnamese Revolutionary leader Ho Chi Minh at the Ho Chi Minh Museum.
  7. See the impressive Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum.
  8. Marvel at the Temple of Literature, which honours Vietnam’s most revered scholars.
  9. Stand at the centre of Ba Dinh Square, where the Proclamation of Independence was read in 1945.
  10. Pluck yourself from the city bustle with a Ninh Binh full-day tour. Amazing scenery, and maybe some peace and quiet for once!
  11. Stop and smell the roses at the Hanoi Botanical Garden.
  12. Wander the grounds of the Presidential Palace.
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2. Hoan Kiem – Best Place to Stay in Hanoi on a Budget

Luckily, sticking to a budget in Vietnam is pretty easy. But for all you true Broke Backpackers, the Hoan Kiem district is the place for you.

The Hoan Kiem district is the historic centre and soul of the city, home to the Hanoi Opera House. Known as Hanoi’s hectic downtown, Hoan Kiem is packed with busy streets, vibrant temples, buzzing cafes, ancient gates, and plenty of traditional shops. Here, you’ll find some of the oldest streets in the country, with history and legend oozing out of every corner.

Hanoi Old Quarter is also where you’ll find a high concentration of budget accommodation options. From fantastic examples of Vietnam’s social backpacker hostels to charming boutique hotels and even some Airbnb offerings… This quarter of the city is where you’ll get the most bang for your buck!

Hoan Kiem Lake Hanoi with turtle tower sitting in the middle
Hoan Kiem Lake is home to the legendary Turtle Tower

Whilst you may spend the majority of your time tussling with crowds in Dong Xuan market, there is also something to be said for the Hoan Kiem Lake. Offering a little peace and quiet in the area, this is a great green area to explore before heading back into the melee.

The Hanoi French Quarter is east of Hoan Kiem Lake and makes another great area to visit. Almost as busy as the Old Quarter, the French Quarter contains exquisite French architecture and is a great afternoon’s exploration. If you’re into motorbiking, a bunch of unique accessory shops are set up here, meaning you can whizz around Vietnam in style!

Hanoi Diamond King Hotel | Best Budget Hotel in Hoan Kiem

Hanoi Diamond King Luxury Hotel

This contemporary hotel has a great French Quarter location in Hoan Kiem. It offers easy access to top attractions as well as shopping, dining, and nightlife. It’s still a three-star hotel but half the price of Ambassador Hanoi Hotel.

Rooms have air conditioning, wireless internet, and a variety of modern features. There’s also a laundry service available on request.

Ambassador Hanoi Hotel & Spa | Best Hotel in Hoan Kiem

Ambassador Hanoi Hotel and Spa

This amazing hotel comes complete with an in-house restaurant and a stylish lounge bar. The rooms are modern and comfortable in the French Quarter. If you need a digestive walk after your rooftop terrace dinner, the Hanoi Opera House is within walking distance (20 minutes ) and stunning.

Located just a few minutes walk from Hanoi’s liveliest district, this three-star hotel has a great selection of dining, shopping, and nightlife options at its doorstep. Hoan Kiem Lake is visible from the balconies too!

Little Charm Hanoi Hostel | Best Hostel in Hoan Kiem

Little Charm Hanoi Hostel

The Little Charm Hostel is my recommendation for where to stay in the French Quarter, Hoan Kiem. Strategically located in Hanoi Old Quarter, this hostel is close to popular main tourist attractions.

There are also plenty of restaurants, cafes and bars nearby. This hostel has a swimming pool, free wifi, and breakfast each morning.

Stylish Apartment with Rooftop Pool | Best Airbnb in Hoan Kiem

Stylish Apartment with Rooftop Pool

Does what it says on the tin, it is well groovy, and there is a rooftop pool. Sleeping up to eight, this cosy apartment has free wifi, a workable kitchen, and a warm wooden vibe. If you’re after a great place for a family or group of mates, look no further!

Top Things to Do in Hoan Kiem

Nic riding a motorbike through vietnam
Always, ALWAYS, wear your helmet
Image: Nic Hilditch-Short
  1. Browse the bustling Dong Xuan Market.
  2. Catch a performance at the Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre
  3. Visit the Hanoi Opera House!
  4. Go for a stroll around stunning Hoan Kiem Lake and visit the legendary Ngoc Son temple.
  5. Leave early, and go for a day out of Hanoi with an amazing Ha Long Bay day tour. With pick up from the old quarter, this might be the breath of fresh air you need.
  6. Marvel at St Joseph’s Cathedral of Hanoi, the oldest Roman Catholic Church in the city.
  7. See the small but beautiful Bach Ma Temple.
  8. Get outta town and discover the beauty of Sapa on this overnight trip from Hanoi. Connect with the local community as you cook together with your host and stay overnight at a local home.
  9. Immerse yourself in Vietnamese culture and history with a day trip from Hanoi to Ninh Binh. 
  10. Shop for souvenirs at the busy and buzzing Hanoi Weekend Night Market.
  11. Visit the Temple of the Jade Mountain.
  12. Set yourself up with a Bai Dinh, Trang An and Mua Cave day tour.

3. Tay Ho – Best Area to Stay in Hanoi For Nightlife

Tay Ho is a district located north of the city centre along the shores of Ho Tay or West Lake. Not long ago, Tay Ho was a cluster of fishing villages known for their sleepy and quiet atmosphere.

Today, this district is one of the liveliest in Hanoi, famous for the Tay Ho Weekend Market. It attracts large populations of ex-pats and students and has become one of the best places for a debaucherous night out in Hanoi.

Tay Ho, Hanoi, image of historic landmarks and glassy water
The Tran Quoc Pagoda is a sight. Go and have a look for some Viet ambience!

Love to eat? Tay Ho is for you! This modern district is dotted with trendy eateries and hip restaurants that serve up cuisines from all corners of the globe. From traditional Vietnamese to French haute cuisine, this neighbourhood will excite your senses and titillate your taste buds.

The Royal Hotel Hanoi | Best Hotel in Tay Ho

The Royal Hotel Hanoi

The Royal Hotel Hanoi is in a fantastic location for exploring Hanoi – which is why it’s my recommendation for where to stay in Tay Ho. The rooms have large and comfortable beds, and the hotel has the usual bundle of facilities, including free wifi and a laundry service. There’s also an in-house restaurant.

West Lake Tay Ho Hotel, 696 Lac Long Quan | Another Great Hotel in Tay Ho

West Lake Tay Ho Hotel Hanoi Vietnam

Of all the mid-range hotels in Hanoi, this three-star hotel is an ideal choice. It has easy access to West Lake and Hanoi’s top attractions, great bars, and delicious restaurants.

The rooms all come with air conditioning, and each has its own shower, minibar, and cable/satellite TV. Best of all, it comes at a low price, meaning comfort and affordability wrapped up in one!

Tuna Homestay | Best Hostel in Tay Ho

Tuna Homestay Hanoi Vietnam

Based in an attractive, sunny building, this hostel is super friendly. A great place to stay if you want to avoid the crowds of the old town without compromising on comfort or price.

The hostel has some great chill-out spaces, offers book exchange, and has a clean kitchen. There are security lockers, female-only dorm rooms, and air conditioning.

Classy Studio with Westlake View | Best Apartment in Tay Ho

Classy Studio with Westlake View Hanoi Vietnam

If you’re searching for a little upper-tier living, then this studio is for you! Decorated luxuriously, and boasting exclusive city panoramas, this chic apartment has an added option for gym and pool access. There is a washer-dryer, a well-designed kitchen, and a comfy living space.

This stay even has a projector for a Hanoi movie night (and maybe take a look at my top travel movies for inspiration). West Lake is also visible from the place! Who needs the Intercontinental Hanoi?1

Top Things to Do in Tay Ho

A bahn Mi egg sandwich street food in Vietnam
Bahn Mi 5evaaaaa!
Image: Nic Hilditch-Short
  1. Catch a show at Hanoi Rock City.
  2. Go for a walk around Ho Tay / West Lake.
  3. Get picked up and join in a super fun Hanoi Jeep tour
  4. Marvel at Tran Quoc Pagoda, Vietnam’s oldest temple.
  5. Shop for fair-trade and organic products and gifts at Betterday.
  6. Tease your taste buds at the Tay Ho Weekend Market.
  7. Visit the Tay Ho Temple.
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4. Hai Ba Trung – Coolest Place to Stay in Hanoi

Hai Ba Trung is a modern and lively district set in Hanoi’s city centre. Adjacent to the Hanoi Old Quarter, this district is well-connected, making it a great base for completing your Hanoi itinerary. It offers great shopping, plenty of cultural attractions and fantastic restaurants await.

Hai Ba Trung, Hanoi
Okay, yes, they like putting buildings on lakes. Absolute class.

This Hanoi neighbourhood is a haven for shopaholics and fashionistas. Throughout the district is a great selection of tailors, local shops and fashionable fabric markets where you can order practically anything you want! And, for my business travellers, Hai Ba Trung is the business centre for the capital city.

The Ann Hanoi | Best Hotel in Hai Ba Trung

The Ann Hanoi - a good budget hotel

Located in Hanoi city centre, this hotel is within walking distance of the Old Quarter and Hai Ba Trung’s top dining, shopping, and sightseeing options. An epic choice for business travellers who want to stay in the business centre but also want to have a good time.

Each of the guest rooms has air conditioning, coffee/tea facilities, and cable/satellite channels. It features both a restaurant and a stylish lounge bar. And, there’s a sauna and swimming pool for guests to enjoy.

Hanoi Aria Central Hotel & Spa | Best Hostel in Hai Ba Trung

Hanoi Aria Central Hotel & Spa Vietnam

This Hanoi hostel is simple with everything you need, 24-hour front desk, bottled water, tea and fruit on arrival! There’s a variety of rooms available, they are all private but different sizes depending on what you need. The staff are lovely and helpful and the air con cranks, a simple no frills stay for business travellers who aren’t on the company card.

Tonkin Homestay | Best Airbnb in Hai Ba Trung

Tonkin Homestay Hanoi Vietnam

Located in a quieter and less hectic area of Hanoi, this homestay has funky decor and is cheap too! With a great balcony, air conditioning, and washing facilities, this homestay will ensure your needs are met, making sure your Hanoi trip goes smoothly. This is an ideal hangout for coffee lovers, as there are a bunch of places right out of the front door!

Top Things to Do in Hai Ba Trung

A street food stall on a street in Vietnam with a fruit seller on a bike.
Fruit to stay hydrated in this heat, yo!
Image: Nic Hilditch-Short
  1. Enjoy a breath of fresh air at Union Park, a green oasis in central Hanoi.
  2. Go for a stroll along bustling Hai Ba Trung Street.
  3. Learn about the contributions women had to Vietnam’s history and culture at The Women’s Museum.
  4. Rest and relax on the shores of Thien Quang Lake.
  5. See the beautiful Hai Ba Trung Temple.
  6. Shop until you drop at Times City, a massive shopping centre.

5. Truc Bach – Best Neighborhood in Hanoi for Families to Stay In

This small residential neighbourhood sits on the southern shores of Truc Bach Lake. It is nestled between the Ba Dinh district, Hoan Kiem, and Tay Ho, and is well-connected throughout Hanoi.

Although it doesn’t boast a lot of famous landmarks, this district is packed with outdoor adventures and other awesome Hanoi activities suited for the kids. Truc Bach is my recommendation for where to stay as a family visiting Hanoi.

O Quan Chuong
O Quan Chuong, Hanoi
Photo: Richard Mortel (Flickr)

Truc Bach is an excellent place to stay if you’re keen to sample the local food scene. Here you’ll find a good array of restaurants that specialise in Hanoian delicacies, like Frog Hotpot and Pho Cuon.

Fancy something a little more traditional? There are plenty of international, vegetarian, and Vietnamese restaurants and food stalls to choose from.

The Autumn Homestel | Best Hotel in Truc Bach

The Autumn Homestel - one of hanoi's great buget hotels or mid range hotels

One of the best budget hotels in the entirety of Hanoi, while not exactly the Intercontinental Hanoi West Lake, the rooftop bar at the Autumn awaits. There is a free washing machine and dryer, wifi, and a sumptuous vegetarian or vegan breakfast in all guest rooms.

There is an onsite bar, and restaurant awaiting you. And a handy airport shuttle service to take advantage of.

La Santé Hotel & Spa | Best Luxury Hotel in Truc Bach

La Santé Hotel & Spa Hanoi Vietnam

This hotel is in such an epic location, with two great lakes within walking distance, it’s a perfect stay for families. With family rooms available and the pricetag minimal for the luxury amenities you’re in for (compared to hotels in the West). Enjoy walking around, and making the most of the heart of Vietnam’s capital city, the cultural attractions of Hanoi’s French Quarter are on your doorstep.

Homestay with Unique Balcony | Best Apartment in Truc Bach

Homestay with Unique balcony

This is one of my favourite choices for a place to stay in Hanoi. With an open-plan bedroom, you might as well be sleeping outside (although you are able to close yourself off whenever you want).

The balcony is incredibly unique, and the bathtub has remarkable city views. There is a great kitchen, free wifi, and room for up to four guests. Definitely not traditional French colonial style like a lot of Hanoi but damn, I’m into the decor.

Top Things to Do in Truc Bach

A narrow street with a train track running down the middle in Hanoi, Vietnam
And this is my Train Street picture.
Image: Nic Hilditch-Short
  1. Find your next favourite book at The Bookworm, a great shop that stocks many English titles.
  2. Learn to cook delicious Vietnamese fare at the Hanoi Cooking Center, then have lunch at the same restaurant as Obama and Anthony Bourdain.
  3. Marvel at the Tran Quoc Pagoda, the oldest pagoda in Hanoi.
  4. Rent boats and paddle along the waters of Truc Bach Lake.
  5. Satisfy your sweet tooth with a chè, a refreshing treat made from shaved ice and coconut milk.
  6. Shop for tasty treats and savoury snacks at the Chau Long Market.
  7. Visit the Quan Thanh Taoist Temple.
  8. Walk down the infamous Train Street
  9. Wander along the expansive Phan Dinh Phung Street admiring the heritage architecture.
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FAQs on Where to Stay in Hanoi

Here’s what people usually ask about Hanoi neighbourhoods and where to stay.

What To Pack For Hanoi

Pants, socks, underwear, soap?! Take it from me, packing for a hostel stay is not always quite as straightforward as it seems. Working out what to bring and what to leave at home is an art I have perfected over many years.

Product
Description
Don’t Let Snorers Keep You Awake!
Don’t Let Snorers Keep You Awake!

Ear Plugs

Snoring dorm-mates can ruin your nights rest and seriously damage the hostel experience. This is why I always travel with a pack of decent ear plugs.

Keep your laundry organized and stink free
Keep your laundry organized and stink free

Hanging Laundry Bag

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Stay Dry With a Micro Towel
Stay Dry With a Micro Towel

Sea To Summit Micro Towel

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Reduce Plastic – Bring a Water Bottle!
Reduce Plastic – Bring a Water Bottle!

Grayl Geopress Water Bottle

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Check out my definitive Hotel Packing list for even more top packing tips!

What are the best hostels in Hanoi for backpackers?

In my opinion, you can’t beat Little Charm Hanoi Hostel. Be sure to check out my in-depth guide to all things Hanoi hostels.

What is the best place to stay in Hanoi’s old quarter?

If you can afford it, Westlake Hotel, probably. If you’re more like me (a broke backpacker) I’d suggest checking out Little Charm Hanoi Hostel.

How many days should you spend in Hanoi?

This is totally up to you and depends on your Hanoi Itinerary. I can only speak from experience and suggest no fewer than 3-4 days. Especially if you’re planning on making excursions to places like Ha Long Bay.

When is the best time to visit Hanoi?

September/November or March/April. I would suggest avoiding the peak rainy season and peak summer months too. Hit either the Autumn or spring sweet spot and avoid the extreme weather (and crowds). Heads up, the peak rainy season can be quite unsafe!

Should I go to Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City?

BOTH! Both cities are very different and offer completely different things. Hanoi is more relaxed and traditional, perhaps more historical too.

Ho Chi Minh is a booming and vibrant modern city. If you’re headed to Vietnam, make sure to visit both major cities. Why not do what I did and drive a motorbike from one to another?

Don’t Forget Travel Insurance for Hanoi

Travel Insurance is NEVER a bad idea. Travel is full of uncertainties and Hanoi has some pretty wild moped traffic. Get good travel insurance!

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing.

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SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

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Final Thoughts on Where to Stay in Hanoi

Hanoi is a bustling and buzzing city that oozes history and culture around every turn. From traditional temples and powerful pagodas to luxury hotels and vibrant nightclubs, there’s something for everyone travelling to Vietnam.

In this post, I’ve highlighted the five best places to stay in Hanoi. If you’re still not sure which is right for you, here’s a quick recap.

Little Charm Hanoi Hostel is my top choice for the best hostel in Hanoi thanks to its central location, swimming pool, and delicious free breakfast.

Another excellent option is the Solaria Hanoi Hotel. With a gorgeous rooftop bar and excellent service, this hotel will ensure a top-tier stay.

Wherever you stay in Hanoi I’m sure you’ll love it! Please let me know in the comments if I’ve missed anything you think should be included, I’d love to chat.

Air China Airplane, Aeroplane Flight, Sunset
Adventure awaits!
Photo: @joemiddlehurst
Looking for more info on travelling to Hanoi and Vietnam?

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the broke backpacker team at the water temple in bali
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