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Picture of Hanoi Capital Region, Vietnam

Travel Guide for
Hanoi Capital Region

Vietnam

Humid subtropical, hot summers

Introduction

Hanoi Capital Region, nestled in northern Vietnam, blends historic charm with energetic city life. As the nation’s capital, Hanoi is known for its centuries-old temples, colonial architecture, and vibrant street culture. October brings cool, pleasant weather—ideal for exploring bustling markets, wandering the Old Quarter, or relaxing around scenic Hoan Kiem Lake.

With friends, you can enjoy delicious street food, free walking tours, and lively night markets without breaking the bank. Dive into the rich culture at spots like the Temple of Literature or take a cheap city bus to nearby villages and pagodas. Hanoi’s spirited atmosphere and affordability make it a perfect playground for shared adventures.

Customized for these preferences:

Travel StyleTravelling with friends

Dates10-13 October 2025

BudgetLow budget

AccommodationApartment or house, homestay, villa, resort, hotel

Interests and Activities:

arts and culturegastronomyoutdoor adventuresnightlife and entertainmentsightseeing and toursfestivals and events

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Picture of Hanoi Capital Region, Vietnam

Key Facts

Location

Northern Vietnam

Currency

Vietnamese đồng (VND)

Religion

Buddhism, Folk religions

Population

22,245,000

Language

Vietnamese, English (limited)

Electricity

220V, 50Hz, Type A/C

Time zone

UTCICT (UTC+7)

Country code

+84

Internet access

Widely available, fast 4G/5G, low cost

Climate

Humid subtropical, hot summers

See More Vietnam Facts

Language:

Vietnamese

  • hello

    xin chào (sin chow)
  • goodbye

    tạm biệt (tahm byet)
  • yes

    vâng (vung)
  • no

    không (khom)
  • how much

    cái này bao nhiêu tiền? (gai nai bao nyew tien)
  • please

    làm ơn (lahm un)
  • thank you

    cảm ơn (gahm un)
  • excuse me

    xin lỗi (sin loy)

Map

Logistics

Getting to Hanoi is easiest by flying into Nội Bài International Airport, which welcomes flights from major Asian cities and some long-haul routes. Budget travelers can often find affordable flights, and public buses or ride-hailing services provide cheap transfers to the city center. For those traveling domestically, Vietnam’s reunification train and intercity buses offer scenic, cost-effective options from cities like Ho Chi Minh City, Hue, or Da Nang.

From nearby provinces, buses and minivans frequently run to Hanoi and are ideal for friend groups on a budget. Travel by boat is uncommon unless you’re touring Ha Long Bay, from which buses are also available. October weather in Hanoi can be rainy, so pack accordingly and allow extra time for potential delays, especially between October 10 and 13.

Weather

Hanoi experiences a humid subtropical climate, with distinct seasons. Summers (May–September) are hot and humid, punctuated by occasional heavy rains, while winters (December–February) are mild and can be misty, with temperatures sometimes dipping below 15°C. Spring and autumn are the most pleasant, offering cooler, drier days.

From October 10 to October 13, Hanoi enjoys comfortable autumn weather. Temperatures range from 22°C to 28°C, and humidity drops, making it perfect for outdoor adventures, sightseeing, and festivals. Heavy rainfall or extreme weather is unlikely, but brief showers may occur, so it’s wise to pack a light rain jacket just in case.

Food & Drink

Hanoi is famous for its street food, especially pho (noodle soup), bun cha (grilled pork with noodles), and egg coffee. For an authentic, budget-friendly experience, try food stalls in the Old Quarter, or visit Dong Xuan Market for snacks and local specialties. Bia hoi (fresh local beer) is a must-try with friends.

For laid-back eateries, check out Bun Cha Huong Lien or Pho Bat Dan. Popular bars like Bia Hoi Corner offer super affordable drinks in a lively setting. Tipping isn’t expected but is appreciated (round up or leave small change). Many places are vegetarian-friendly, but always ask to avoid fish sauce or meat if needed.

Hanoi’s food culture is social, so order several small dishes to share. Street food is generally safe, but stick to busy places where food turns over quickly. Note that some specialties, like young green rice (com), are seasonal.

A picture of Pho

Pho

Pho is a popular Vietnamese noodle soup consisting of broth, rice noodles, herbs, and meat, usually made with...

A picture of Banh Mi

Banh Mi

Banh Mi is a Vietnamese sandwich filled with a variety of savory ingredients such as pork, pâté, pickled...

A picture of Goi Cuon

Goi Cuon

Goi Cuon, also known as Vietnamese spring rolls, are light and refreshing rolls filled with shrimp, pork, rice...

A picture of Bun Cha

Bun Cha

Bun Cha is a Vietnamese dish featuring grilled pork served with vermicelli noodles, fresh herbs, and a flavorsome...

A picture of Ca Kho To

Ca Kho To

Ca Kho To is a traditional Vietnamese fish dish made by simmering catfish in a savory caramelized sauce...

Accommodation

For a low-budget, traveling-with-friends trip, the Old Quarter is perfect, filled with affordable hostels, charming homestays, and apartment rentals on Agoda, Booking.com, and Airbnb. The French Quarter offers budget-friendly hotels close to Hoan Kiem Lake, while the West Lake (Tay Ho) area has cozy villas and modern serviced apartments ideal for groups.

Many hostels and homestays offer dorms or shared villas, which are both social and cost-effective. Popular names include Nexy Hostel, Hanoi Lotus Homestay, and affordable hotels like La Sinfonía del Rey. Resorts are pricier but consider splitting costs for a fun group experience. Book early for October 10–13 as Vietnam’s National Day celebrations may make accommodations scarce and prices higher.

Itinerary

Step into Hanoi’s artistic and historical heart by wandering through its lively streets, exploring vibrant markets and iconic old neighborhoods, soaking up local artistry and heritage.

Wander Hanoi’s Old Quarter

Soak up the bustling energy of Hanoi’s Old Quarter. Walk its winding streets packed with French colonial architecture, lively street vendors, and heritage shophouses. Great for photos and discovering daily Hanoi life.

Savor Traditional Street Food at Dong Xuan Market

Dive into Hanoi’s celebrated street food culture at Dong Xuan Market. Sample iconic bites like pho, bun cha, and egg coffee on a budget while exploring energetic stalls and local crafts.

Admire Local Works at Hanoi Ceramic Mosaic Mural

Marvel at one of the world’s longest mosaic murals, blending art with history along the city’s walls. Snap creative photos and appreciate the colorful storytelling of Vietnamese life and legends.

Ninh Binh HIGHTLIGHT & HIDDEN GEM Tour From Hanoi: Skip-The-Line

Ninh Binh HIGHTLIGHT & HIDDEN GEM Tour From Hanoi: Skip-The-Line

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

Discover the authentic charm of northern Vietnam with our luxury & Small Group Ninh Binh Tour from Hanoi. This immersive day trip blends food, adventure, culture, and breathtaking nature, allowing you to explore the highlights & hidden gems of the UNESCO-listed Ninh Binh region, often called “Ha Long Bay on Land.” What sets our tour apart? ✅ Early departure – avoid crowds & traffic ✅ Small group for a personalized experience ✅ Combination of boat, bike/scooter & hike in one day ✅ Local insights from friendly, English-speaking guides ✅ Luxury comfort with authentic local touches ✅ Experience the best Ninh Binh Tour from Hanoi — where every moment combines natural beauty, culture, and unforgettable adventure. ● 18:00 – 18:30, you are back in Hanoi, You got time for a night planned in Hanoi.

5.0 (3960 reviews)

From $89 USD

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Experiences

Medical Experience in Vietnam
learning

Medical Experience in Vietnam

Minimum 1 week

Vietnam

$495/week

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Working with Disabled Children in Vietnam
teaching

Working with Disabled Children in Vietnam

Minimum 1 week

Vietnam

$370/week

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Teaching English in Vietnam
teaching

Teaching English in Vietnam

Minimum 1 week

Vietnam

$370/week

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Volunteer at Food Shop NGO in Vietnam
volunteering

Volunteer at Food Shop NGO in Vietnam

Minimum 1 week

Vietnam

$370/week

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Kindergarten Teaching in Vietnam
teaching

Kindergarten Teaching in Vietnam

Minimum 1 week

Vietnam

$370/week

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Attractions

5.0 (1 reviews)
 Full Day Tour To Trang An Complex & Bai Dinh Temple

Full Day Tour To Trang An Complex & Bai Dinh Temple

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

Trang An Scenic Landscape Complex, recognized by UNESCO as a mixed natural and cultural property at the 38th session of the organization’s World Heritage Committee in June 2014, is must see destination in Vietnam. The complex includes three adjacent parts, Vietnam’s old capital of Hoa Lu, Trang An – Tam Coc – Bich Dong natural scenes and the Hoa Lu primitive forest. 8:00 AM Meet tour guide at your hotel and depart for Ninh Binh province (2,5 hour-driving). Our first stop is Bai Dinh Pagoda the biggest pagoda in South East Asia with 500 La Han statues, biggest bronze Buddha statue in Vietnam with 10 meters in height, 100 tons in weight. Bái Dinh pagoda is young in Vietnam, but its peace and power are very strong. The 11th United Nations Day of Vesak Celebration is held in Bai Dinh Pagao. This event attracts buddhists from at least 95 nations and regions. In the late afternoon, we drive back to Hanoi. We arrive the hotel in Hanoi at around 17:30hrs.

From $97 USD

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4.9 (15 reviews)
Amazing Private Hanoi City Shore Excursion from Cruise Port

Amazing Private Hanoi City Shore Excursion from Cruise Port

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

Hanoi City is Capital of Vietnam, a destination for famous landscapes in Vietnam, the center of culture, economy, education, politics of Vietnam, to Visit Hanoi one day you will have moments of discovery. Along with the many thousand years of civilization, with many ancient and modern works, with unique sidewalk cultural experiences, the special historical sites will all make you a trip. Hanoi memorable tour. Especially not only experience the identity of 36 bustling streets, beautiful roads but also have moments of experiencing the enjoyment of the national culture through the museum and sightseeing: Dong Kinh Nghia Thuc Square – Hoàn Kiếm Lake, St. Joseph’s Cathedral, The Flag Tower of Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, Quan Thanh Temple, Tran Quoc Pagoda, Cua Bac Church, The Imperial Citadel of Thang Long, The Temple of Literature, Hoa Lo Prison Relic, Museum of Vietnamese Women, Hanoi Opera House, Hanoi Post Office.

From $165 USD

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5.0 (17 reviews)
Hanoi Army Jeep Tour with Food and Culture Sightseeing

Hanoi Army Jeep Tour with Food and Culture Sightseeing

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

Experience the best of Hanoi, both within and beyond the city's vibrant heart, on this unforgettable half-day tour. Journey through the bustling streets and scenic outskirts in a classic Army Jeep, immersing yourself in the rich culture and history of Vietnam's capital. This tour offers a unique blend of urban exploration and local experiences. Discover MUST-SEE places of Hanoi, including the Ho Chi Minh mausoleum, the Tran Quoc Buddhist temples, the amazing Hanoi TRAIN-STREET, the enchanting French Quarter, the hustling and bustling Old Quarter, the romantic lakes of Hoan Kiem and West Lake, Hanoi Opera House, and the famous Long Bien bridge, etc. Beyond the city limits, you'll encounter hidden gems and local landmarks, gaining a deeper understanding of the region's charm. Indulge in a quintessential Hanoi experience with a stop at a local café for a traditional egg coffee. For your convenience, hassle-free hotel pickup and drop-off in Hanoi's Old Quarter are included.

From $56 USD

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5.0 (2 reviews)
Hanoi Jeep Tour Sightseeing Include Street Food and Train Street

Hanoi Jeep Tour Sightseeing Include Street Food and Train Street

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

Join us for an unforgettable adventure through the city with our Hanoi Jeep Tour sightseeing experience. Discover a mix of famous landmarks and hidden gems tucked away in Vietnam's lively capital, all while delving into the country's rich history with the expertise of our knowledgeable tour leader. Choose from morning, afternoon, or evening tours to fit your schedule, and treat yourself to a delicious street food feast paired with a refreshing drink at a rooftop bar, all included in your package.

From $68 USD

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4.0 (57 reviews)
Private Tour: Hanoi City Tour Including Water Puppet Show and Cyclo Ride

Private Tour: Hanoi City Tour Including Water Puppet Show and Cyclo Ride

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

Take in Hanoi's notable landmarks during a full day of private sightseeing that includes a cyclo tour to the Old Quarter and a water puppet show. Vietnam’s capital maintains 2,000 well-preserved cultural, architectural and historical sites. Your tour includes visits to the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, Temple of Literature and Vietnam Museum of Ethnology, plus structures like One Pillar Pagoda and Ngoc Son Temple. Starting your day with Egg coffee and Enjoy Vietnamese Cuisine Lunch at local restaurant. Hotel pickup and drop-off by air-conditioned vehicle are included.

From $103 USD

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4.9 (110 reviews)
The Best Seller-Ninh Binh Private full day tour depart From Hanoi

The Best Seller-Ninh Binh Private full day tour depart From Hanoi

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

Experience the attractions and landscapes of Ninh Binh on your own terms away from the crowds on this private tour from Hanoi. Travel first to Hoa Lu, the ancient capital of Vietnam, to see its historic temples. After lunch, take a sampan boat ride through the caves of Tam Coc or Trang An. Finish with a walk up the 500 steps of Mua Cave to admire paronamic views of the region from Dragon Mount. Ninh Binh tour from Hanoi with a private guide and car. Entrance fees, boat ride and bicycle. Complimentary Vietnamese restaurant lunch organized for you. Tailor the experience to your needs with this private tour. Please click to button reserve spot we have some other options you can choose such as schedule or timing you like.

From $108 USD

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5.0 (1 reviews)
Ninh Binh 2 Days 1 Night Tour

Ninh Binh 2 Days 1 Night Tour

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

Exploring Ninh Binh 2 Days offering you a true and lovely image how beautiful Ninh Binh is. It is surely bringing you an unforgetable trip with local daily farmer’s life in simple and emotional countryside. Leisurely time on Sampan to visit "Tam Coc - Halong Bay on land", going through the tunnels and explore the local daily life along the Ngo Dong river. Biking through the rice field and learn how to take care the rice. Hiking to the top of mountain in Mua cave to get the whole stunning view of Tam Coc valley.

From $128 USD

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4.5 (2 reviews)
Hoa Lu - Trang An - Mua Cave- 1 Day Trip from Hanoi By Limousine and Small Group

Hoa Lu - Trang An - Mua Cave- 1 Day Trip from Hanoi By Limousine and Small Group

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

Hoa Lu - Trang An - Mua Cave- 1 Day Trip from Hanoi By Luxury Limousine Transport and Small Group Tour. - Luxury Limousine Transport: Pick up and drop off at your hotel or at our travel office in Hanoi - Transport by Luxury Limousine Fuso or Luxury Limousine Felix with maximum of 15 Pax in a Small group. - Visit Hoa Lu - An ancient capital. - Have a buffet lunch with delicious local and asia foods. - Enjoy unique boat trip to visit Trang An cave complex and the scene view of King Kong film. - Biking around Trang An area and enjoy Vietnamese tea break. - Visit Mua Cave - Climb up to the top of Mua Island to get great view to see or take pictures of Tam Coc.

From $51 USD

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3.5 (2 reviews)
Hanoi Cyclo Tour with Lunch

Hanoi Cyclo Tour with Lunch

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

What better way to get around Hanoi than by a scooter? They are practical, effectively gets you through the traffic during certain hours and best of all, they are cheap modes of transportation. Lunch at a local restaurant and have the time of your life roaming around Hanoi’s best spots. Highlights: • Get a feeling of the local culture • Take many beautiful photographs • Talks with local people, exchange cultural way of life. • Discover the beauty of attraction such as: Hoan Kiem Lake, Tran Quoc Pagoda

From $79 USD

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5.0 (1 reviews)
Hanoi traditional village tour - Private tour

Hanoi traditional village tour - Private tour

INSTANT_THEN_MANUAL
Free Cancellation

You are very anxious to have a day in Hanoi but do not know where to go when all points in the city you've visited, you want to stay away from the dust and the noise of the city center to enjoy moments of peaceful relaxation, so why you do not try to plan a journey to visit traditional villages to get new experience while in Hanoi. - You will go to visit Bat Trang ceramic village - Going to discover rural area of Hanoi thru Van Phuc silk village - Know more about Hanoi people culture - Enjoy great Vietnamese style lunch - Great guide with knowledge and supper friendly

From $60 USD

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5.0 (15 reviews)
The Hidden Side Of Hanoi By Scooter

The Hidden Side Of Hanoi By Scooter

MANUAL
Free Cancellation

Arriving in Vietnam can be a sensory overload — especially in Hanoi, where the bustling traffic is one of the first things that grabs your attention. With over 4 million motorbikes for a population of around 8 million, the streets are a vibrant, buzzing spectacle. But instead of being intimidated, why not embrace it? Join us on a thrilling Hanoi scooter tour, where you’ll ride pillion with an experienced local driver and explore the city in the most authentic way possible — just like a true Hanoian. This isn’t just a ride; it’s an immersive adventure through the capital’s famous landmarks and hidden local gems you won’t find in the guidebooks. From the narrow alleyways of the Old Quarter to serene lakeside roads and vibrant local markets, our Hanoi motorbike tours offer a unique perspective of the city — full of stories, culture, and local flavor. It’s more than sightseeing — it’s about connecting with the real Hanoi.

From $63 USD

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