What is the best time to visit Hanoi?
November-April is the best time to visit Hanoi. The climate of Vietnam is characterized by a distinct dry and rainy season: November-April is the dry season and May-October is the rainy season. The rainy season is humid and hot, with sunny days at noon and rainy evenings, and very limited daylight hours.
The dry season in Vietnam can also be divided into hot and cool seasons, roughly November-February being the cool season and March-April being the hot season. During the cool season, the sun is shining in the city, which is the most beautiful season in Vietnam and the most suitable time to visit Vietnam.
What are the main attractions in Hanoi?
1. Hoan Kiem Lake
The most visited area in Hanoi is Hoan Kiem Lake, which is also one of the famous attractions in Hanoi. The lake itself is not outstanding, but the houses around the lake are very graceful and there are many old trees, so it is pleasant to walk along the lake.
2. Hanoi Cathedral (Saint Joseph Cathedral)
Hanoi Cathedral, also known as Saint Joseph Cathedral, is the oldest church in Hanoi. It is said to have been built after Notre Dame de Paris and has a medieval style. Although the exterior looks a bit drab, the interior of the church is very impressive with its intricately decorated main altar, stained glass windows, and square towers. The doors of the church are only open for masses, and the rest of the time, visitors must enter from the side, which is located in the alley facing the left side of the church. This is Hanoi's up-and-coming area of boutique stores and cafes, and with its traditional French architecture and large trees, it is both a relaxing and romantic place to shop.
3. 36 Pho Phuong
The handicrafts and tourist souvenirs here are almost the cheapest in Vietnam, and the variety is also very complete. You can find small handicraft stores on every street. Prices vary greatly here, so shop around. There are many local artists' studios on the street, with simple facades but highly individual works.
4. Ba Dinh Square and Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum Complex
Ba Dinh Square, located in the center of Hanoi, northwest of Hoan Kiem Lake, is a landmark of Hanoi and a place where major celebrations and gatherings are held in Vietnam. It was once the place where pre-president Ho Chi Minh read the Declaration of Independence on September 2, 1945. On the west side of the square is Ho Chi Minh Memorial Hall.
What is a suggested Hanoi city day trip classic itinerary?
Saint Joseph Cathedral—Hoan Kiem Lake—Presidential Palace—Tran Quoc Pagoda—One Pillar Pagoda—Temple of Literature—Imperial Citadel of Thang Long—Thang Long Water Puppet Theater—36 Pho Phuong
Where is the best place to stay when visiting Hanoi?
We recommend a hotel in the Old Quarter (near 36 Pho Phuong) for the reason that it is more convenient to Ba Dinh Square and to Hoan Kiem Lake, and there are more restaurants nearby.
The area around Hoi Kien Lake is relatively easy to get to, with many bus lines and easy access to the airport, which takes about 35-45 minutes.