Hanoi City Guide

Street food is a highlight with dishes like Pho, Bun Cha, and Banh Mi. You'll find many international options too. Vegan and vegetarian spots are increasing. Food stalls often stay open late.

Nightlife centers on the Old Quarter and Hoan Kiem Lake, with beer corners, rooftop bars, lounges, and live music.

Strong coffee culture featuring egg coffee and traditional cafes alongside third-wave spots.

Tipping isn't expected but appreciated in bigger or tourist places. 5-10% in restaurants or rounding up taxi fares is common.

SIM cards are easy to buy at the airport or stores. Viettel has the best coverage. Passport needed for registration.

Tourist areas are clean but some streets and markets can be less tidy. Waste collection is regular.

Many minimarts open 24/7. Pharmacies and food stalls may stay open late. Few 24/7 clinics.

Supermarkets like VinMart, Lotte Mart, and Big C sell local and international products. Fresh markets like Dong Xuan and Hom Market offer produce and meat. Supermarkets open 8AM to 10PM.

Card payments work in big hotels, supermarkets, and some restaurants but cash is better for street food and markets.

ATMs from banks like Vietcombank, BIDV, and Agribank are common. Withdrawals usually cost 20,000–50,000 VND with foreign cards.

International schools like HIS, UNIS Hanoi, and BIS teach mainly in English. Some offer bilingual programs. Admission can be competitive.

A growing community with frequent meetups and many nomad-friendly cafes and coworking spaces.

Several large parks offer green spaces with shady trails and spots to relax or run.

Common running routes include Hoan Kiem Lake perimeter and West Lake. Air quality varies seasonally.

Several gyms offer modern equipment and classes including yoga.

Tennis courts available at sports centers and hotels; padel is less common but growing.

Padel is rare but slowly gaining interest.

Many yoga studios with English-speaking instructors offering various styles.

Offers training in Vovinam, Taekwondo, Karate, Judo, BJJ, and Muay Thai.

No skiing opportunities in or near Hanoi.

Limited to lake activities like paddle boats. More options require travel to coastal areas.

No surfing near Hanoi.

No diving; closest sites are in coastal areas like Halong Bay.

Hospitals like Vinmec and French Hospital have English-speaking staff. Private hospitals offer better service. Pharmacies are common and provide over-the-counter meds.

Tap water is not safe to drink. Use bottled or boiled water.

Parks like Thong Nhat and Lenin have playgrounds. Kid-friendly cafes are growing. Attractions include the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology and Water Puppet Theatre.

Relatively tolerant city with a growing LGBTQ+ scene. Legal protections are limited but discrimination is usually low.

Mixed pet policies in accommodations and restaurants. Vet services and supplies are available.