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Where to Stay in Hanoi: Insider Guide to BEST Areas + Hotels

Hanoi Vietnam train street

Hanoi has always been at the top of my Vietnam destination list, even though its reputation for being chaotic and overwhelming made me a bit hesitant at first. Still, as one of the world's oldest capitals with so much to explore, it was impossible to not visit! When I finally arrived in Hanoi, I was immediately captivated by the city's contagious energy, and I found myself eagerly soaking in every sight.

Hanoi is a city of striking contrasts, full of highlights and hidden gems waiting to be uncovered. The blend of Chinese and French influences adds a unique charm to this Vietnamese city, making it easy to fall in love with the vibrant chaos of the Old Quarter.

Plus, Hanoi is the perfect starting point for exploring other Vietnamese highlights, like the world-renowned Halong Bay. If you have the time, I highly recommend an overnight stay on a boat!

If you’re trying to find the perfect place to stay in Hanoi to be right in the heart of the action, I will show you all my favourite areas plus the best hotels in each.

Where To Stay In Hanoi: 4 Main Areas

When choosing where to stay in Hanoi, you'll encounter several distinct areas, each offering a unique experience.

Hanoi Old Quarter & Hoan Kiem (the best part of Hanoi to stay in!): My favorite choice for its bustling streets, historic charm, and vibrant street food scene. Here you'll find narrow alleyways and traditional architecture and the beautiful Hoan Kiem Lake. Best for staying right in the action, first-timers and couples. I recommend staying on the north or west side of the lake!

Hanoi West Lake: I've also stayed around West Lake before, which has a more laid-back and residential, yet it has an upscale environment. From many hotels, you'll get scenic lake views. It's easy and safe and less hectic than the Old Quarter. If luxury accommodation or a romantic stay is what you're coming to Hanoi for, stay here!

Ba Dinh District: Known for its historical significance, housing important landmarks like Ho Chi Minh's Mausoleum, One Pillar Pagoda and the Presidential Palace, making it an ideal choice for history enthusiasts.

Truc Bach: This area of Hanoi offers a picturesque lakeside setting and a balance of relaxation and proximity to the city's attractions. It's more residential yet it is well linked with the rest of Hanoi.

Where To Stay In Hanoi: My Favourite Hotels

1. Where to Stay in Hanoi for First-Time Visitors: Hanoi Old Quarter

Hanoi Vietnam Hoan Kiem Lake

Best area for: First-timers, in the heart of the city, couples, all budgets.

  • Most central to all attractions and highlights
  • Authentic Vietnamese charm
  • Amazing street food scene
  • Great nightlife
  • Plenty of hotel choices from luxury to cheap guesthouses

The Old Quarter of Hanoi is located to the North of Hoan Kiem Lake and it is hands down one of the best neighbourhoods if you'd like to stay in the most central part of Hanoi.

Hanoi's Old Quarter is a busy maze of narrow streets and centuries-old architecture centered around “36 Streets”, an area consisting of 36 ancient streets, each historically dedicated to a specific trade or craft, such as silk, silver, or ceramics. Until today, the names of the streets often reflect the goods or services that were originally sold there.

Hoan Kiem District is adjacent to the south of Hanoi's Old Quarter and sometimes these two neighborhoods are used interchangeably, however, they are not entirely the same but rather make up the centre of Hanoi together. You can best see this on the map below:

Hanoi Old Quarter and Hoan Kiem Map

Best 5-Star Hotel: Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi

Sofitel Hanoi Old Quarter

If you wonder where to stay in Hanoi's Old Quarter, I highly recommend the Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi as a luxurious option.

This hotel is a historic landmark set in a building built in 1901, which will impress you with its grandness and elegant neo-classic style. Plus, you'll find a heated swimming pool, a cocktail bar, whiskey lounge and it's also home to the first-ever French restaurant in Hanoi called Le Beaulieu.

Luxury: Apricot Hotel

Hanoi Apricot Hotel Hanoi

Apricot Hotel is another 5-star hotel in Hanoi. Offering a breathtaking view over Hoan Kiem Lake, it stuns its visitors with the rooftop swimming pool and modern facilities within its neo-classic style. Make sure you check out the panoramic fitness centre and trendy rooftop bar.

From the hotel door, it's only 300 meters to the popular Thang Long Water Puppet Theater!

Mide-Range: Oriental Suites & Spa

Oriental Suites and Spa Hanoi

Oriental Suites & Spa is a more affordable option that welcomes its guests with cozy rooms and excellent spa services.

Just footsteps from the famous Hoan Kiem Lake, a central point within the city centre, Oriental Suites is a great place to put your head down if you want to do a lot of shopping, eat authentic street food and enjoy a lively atmosphere.

Budget: MK Premier Boutique

MK Premier Boutique Hanoi Hotel

Finally, MK Premier Boutique is a nice hotel in the Old Quarter, also in the affordable category at just 200 meters away from the Old City Gate.

Apart from the location, the rooftop offers an incredible view, where you can spend time sitting under the fairy lights enjoying Vietnamese food. Clean and comfortable and really a great choice for the price you pay!

2. Where to Stay in Hanoi For Luxury & Couples: Hanoi West Lake

Hanoi West Lake

Best area for: Couples, luxury hotels, International vibes, laid-back and quiet base in Hanoi.

  • Upscale atmosphere
  • Residential, more quiet area
  • Stunning lake views & sunsets
  • Away from the city's hustle and bustle

Hanoi West Lake can be considered the safest neighbourhood in Hanoi as here you will find the highest density of expats in Vietnam. This area possibly makes the softest transition from our modern world into hectic Hanoi.

Here you will find modern shops and plenty of restaurants where you can try both local cuisine and international food.

Luxury: InterContinental Hanoi Westlake

InterContinental Hanoi Westlake

InterContinental Hanoi Westlake is surely one of the best places to stay in Hanoi. It will offer you everything you could expect from a 5-star hotel.

Located right on the shores of West Lake, InterContinental takes luxury to a high standard with contemporary Vietnamese decor and world-class service. Great for couples!

Luxury: Sheraton Hanoi Hotel

Sheraton Hanoi Hotel

Sheraton Hanoi features a mix of beautiful décor influenced by French colonies and Vietnamese culture and traditions. With picturesque views of West Lake, it's only a 10-minute drive from here to downtown and it's a mere 10-minute stroll to Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum.

Marble bathrooms, an outdoor pool, a fitness centre and an adjacent restaurant featuring an international buffet will make your stay perfect.

Mid-Range: Elegant Suites Westlake

Elegant Suites Westlake Hanoi

On the other hand, Elegant Suites Westlake is one of those boutique hotels in Hanoi where you will feel like in heaven. Located just a few minutes from West Lake, this hotel appears like a peaceful retreat in the middle of the buzzing city.

4-Star: Diamond Westlake Suites

Diamond Westlake Suites

Diamond Westlake Suites, situated on the northeastern side of Hanoi's picturesque Ho Tay Lake, offers family-friendly apartments with kitchenettes and free wired internet.

These spacious, modern apartments feature flat-screen TVs, DVD players, and well-equipped kitchens. The hotel provides complimentary shuttles to the town center, International Schools and offers an array of recreational facilities, including an outdoor swimming pool, gym, sauna, tennis courts, and more.

It's conveniently located a 10-minute drive from the central business district and a 20-minute drive from Noi Bai International Airport, making it a convenient choice for both business and leisure travelers in Hanoi.

3. Where to Stay in Hanoi for History: Ba Dinh District

Ba Dinh District in Hanoi

Best area for: Families, history enthusiasts, anyone wanting a quieter atmosphere, business travellers.

  • The political heart of Hanoi
  • Many major historic sights & museums
  • Green spaces, parks, lakes
  • Easy access to Hanoi Old Quarter

If you ask me about Ba Dinh, I would tell you that this neighborhood of Hanoi blends historical depth with a touch of chill-ness. Ba Dinh District is an excellent choice for families with kids, couples and anyone who wants to immerse themselves in Hanoi’s heritage while enjoying a quieter stay.

As the political and cultural heart of the city, Ba Dinh offers easy access to significant landmarks such as the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, the Temple of Literature, the Vietnam Military History Museum and the Presidential Palace, providing a condensed historical experience.

The district is also known for its many parks and green spaces, like Lenin Park. Start wandering through the streets of this neighbourhood and you'll surely discover some hidden gems too!

Luxury: Lotte Hotel Hanoi

Where to stay in Hanoi Blog 5 star hotels

I recommend Lotte Hotel as a luxurious option in Ba Dinh. Here you'll find how the traditional past is able to mingle with the modern future.

Luxurious rooms, an outdoor pool and indoor pool, a fitness center, sauna facilities and great city views from the rooftop make Lotte Hotel a great luxurious choice for your stay in Hanoi.

Mid-Range: Super Hotel Candle

where to stay in Hanoi

If you are looking for an affordable option in the neighbourhood, Sunsight House will offer you exactly that.

Scandinavian-designed, the guesthouse really feels like a home away from home. Air-conditioned rooms, a tropical balcony and Western and vegetarian food right down the street make this a wonderful place to stay in Hanoi on a budget.

Budget: Hanoi 20 Hotel

Hanoi 20 Hotel & Apartment

Hanoi Delight Hotel is conveniently located just a 5-minute drive from Hanoi's Old Quarter and Hoan Kiem Lake. The traditionally furnished rooms offer free WiFi access, and the hotel features a restaurant and amenities such as airport shuttle services and a 24-hour front desk for assistance with travel arrangements.

4. Where to Stay in Hanoi for Families: Truc Bach

Truc Bach Lake Hanoi

Best area for: Families with kids, a more authentic stay like a local, street food lovers longer stays.

  • Great local vibes
  • Centered around the picturesque Truc Bach Lake
  • Well-connected to the rest of Hanoi
  • A paradise for street food and local markets

I recommend reserving 2-3 days to explore Truc Bach, an exceptionally cool neighborhood in Hanoi. Located at the northern edge of the Old Quarter and separated from West Lake by a narrow dike, Truc Bach is a neighbourhood with local charm and a more laid-back pace than the Old Quarter, yet less sophisticated and expensive as West Lake.

Stroll along the scenic lake shores, enjoy delicious Vietnamese flavors at local eateries, and explore vibrant markets and historic temples. This neighbourhood is great for families with kids, but also couples who like things quieter.

Luxury: Pan Pacific Hotel

Pan Pacific Hanoi where to stay

My recommendation for a luxurious place to stay around here is the Pan Pacific Hotel. It deserves to be considered as one of the best hotels in Hanoi, offering you not only top-notch accommodation but also extremely tasty food.

Combine that with a nice spa, indoor heated pool and beautiful French bathroom amenities and you know you'll have a great stay!

Mid-Range: Le Jardin Hotel Haute Couture

where to stay in Hanoi

La Jardin Hotel Haute Couture will make you fall in love with Hanoi. With flawless service, immaculately styled rooms, panoramic rooftop views over the city, a lovely pool, and open-air dining, it's a great place to stay right next to the hectic Old Quarter.

Budget: Flower Garden Hotel

Flower Garden Hotel Hanoi

Flower Garden Hotel is an elegant yet affordable hotel choice in Hanoi. You will benefit from friendly service, chic Vietnamese interiors and a rooftop restaurant, The Crystal Lotus.

Formerly called the “French Quarter”, Ba Dinh District is actually the political centre of Vietnam, as you'll find most embassies and government building around here. And you'll have easy access to the Ho Chi Minh Museum, Botanical Gardens and an easy walk into the Old Quarter.

Where To Stay In Hanoi: Comparison Table

Hotel NameLocationBudget
Best 5-star: Sofitel Legend Metropole HanoiHanoi Old Quarter$$$
Best hotel for couples: Hanoi Pearl HotelHanoi Old Quarter$$
Best central hostel: Old Quarter View Hanoi HostelHanoi Old Quarter$
Best luxury hotel with pool & lake view: InterContinental Hanoi WestlakeWest Lake$$$
Most affordable apartments: Diamond Westlake SuitesWest Lake$$
Best value for money: Lotte Hotel HanoiBa Dinh$$
Best studio accommodation: Myrcella Urban StudioBa Dinh$
Centrally located 5-star luxury: Pan Pacific HotelTruc Bach$$$
Best boutique hotel: Le Jardin Hotel Haute CoutureTruc Bach$$

Where to Stay in Hanoi – Frequently Asked Questions

📍 Where is the city centre of Hanoi?

The city center of Hanoi is considered to be Hoan Kiem District, which includes the historic Old Quarter and Hoan Kiem Lake. This area is known for its vibrant street life, cultural attractions, and proximity to many of the city's landmarks. It's a popular area to stay for tourists and offers a wide range of accommodations, dining, and entertainment options.

🏨 Where is the best location to stay in Hanoi?

If you prefer a lively atmosphere with numerous cultural attractions and street food options, the Old Quarter and Hoan Kiem District are excellent choices. For a more upscale and tranquil experience, the West Lake area offers beautiful lakeside views and upscale hotels. Each neighborhood in Hanoi has its unique charm, catering to a variety of traveler preferences.

❌ Where should I not stay in Hanoi?

While Hanoi is generally a safe city to visit. However, you might want to avoid staying near the train tracks in the Old Quarter due to potential noise from passing trains. Additionally, certain areas with heavy traffic congestion during rush hours might not be the best choice for those seeking a quieter stay. It's advisable to read current hotel reviews and research specific neighborhoods to find the most suitable location for you.

📅 How many days should I stay in Hanoi?

Typically, a stay of 2-4 days allows you to explore the city's main attractions, savor all its amazing food, and gain cultural insight. However, if you plan to take day trips to nearby destinations like Halong Bay or Ninh Binh, consider extending your stay to accommodate those additional experiences.

❓ Should I choose to stay in Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City?

Choosing between Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City isn't an easy one. Hanoi, the capital, is known for its rich history, cultural sites, and a more traditional atmosphere. Ho Chi Minh City, on the other hand, offers a bustling urban experience with modern amenities and vibrant nightlife. Consider your interests, whether they lean toward history and culture or a dynamic urban lifestyle, to make the decision that suits you best.

Where to Stay in Hanoi – Final Words

Vietnam's capital offers a variety of neighborhoods to consider if you're wondering where to stay in Hanoi, my first choice is definitely the Old Quarter. It captures the city's vibrant energy and historical charm with its narrow streets, bustling markets, and colonial architecture.

For a serene experience, the Hanoi West Lake area provides a peaceful retreat with lakeside views and green surroundings.

Ba Dinh District is perfect for exploring Hanoi's historical landmarks, while Truc Bach offers a quieter ambiance near the lake and is known for being family-friendly and its local food scene. Each neighborhood offers a unique experience, allowing you to find the perfect stay in Hanoi based on your preferences.

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