Welcome to Hanoi, Vietnam's vibrant capital. Buddhist temples, French colonial architecture, beautiful nature and street food. It's especially worth taking a stroll around the old town, where narrow streets, small food stalls and countless scooters characterise the city scene.
A walk to Hoan Kiem Lake is a must. In the middle of the lake is the small Ngoc Son Temple, which can be reached via a red bridge. On Sundays, the roads around the lake are closed to cars and scooters. If you want to learn more about Vietnam's history, visit the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum or the historic Temple of Literature in Hanoi.
Two of North Vietnam's most spectacular landscapes are easily accessible from Hanoi. The famous Ha Long Bayis about three to four hours away. Thousands of limestone cliffs rise out of the emerald green water here – a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Vietnam's most famous postcard motifs. Book a one- or two-day boat tour with overnight accommodation. Popular activities include kayaking between the rocks, visiting caves and swimming in hidden bays.
An impressive alternative is Ninh Binh, often referred to as the ‘dry Halong Bay’. Here, karst rocks rise out of green rice fields instead of the sea. Boat trips through the Tam Coc or Trang Ancountryside are particularly popular. The routes take you through rivers, caves and between steep rock faces. Another viewpoint is the climb to Hang Mua viewpoint, from where you can enjoy spectacular views over the rice fields and rivers.
The best time to visit North Vietnam is between September and November, when the climate is slightly milder and drier. Hanoi is well connected to international air traffic via Noi Bai International Airport. There are direct flights from European capitals. Within the city, the easiest way to get around is by taxi, ride-hailing apps such as Grab, or on foot through the old town. Day trips and multi-day tours to Halong Bay or Ninh Binh can be booked directly at hotels, travel agencies or online. It is advisable to have some cash in Vietnamese Dong for your stay, even though cards are accepted in many hotels and restaurants.
- Travel period: 7 days
- Best time to travel: September to November / March and April
- Main dish: 5 €
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