Vacation Rentals in Hanoi: 1,500+ Houses, Hotels & More

Vacations in Hanoi

Where Is Hanoi, Vietnam Located?

The capital city of Vietnam, Hanoi is located in the northern region of the country, on the western bank of the Red River. Situated approximately 90 kilometers inland from the coast within the Red River Delta, Hanoi sits approximately 89 kilometers from Hai Phong, and 124 kilometers from Ha Long.

What Is Hanoi, Vietnam Known For?

As the capital of Vietnam, Hanoi retains its traditional heritage within a country that is hurtling towards a future of rapid progression and prosperity. Aplomb with gorgeous colonial architecture, an engaging clutch of museums, and a delightfully delicious culinary scene, Hanoi is a top destination on many Asian travel bucket lists. Known as the cultural and historical capital of the country, Hanoi is not just the seat of a government that advocates for positive cultural and social upheaval, but also a congregation of hidden remnants of the past that lie concealed between every boulevard and alleyway. Perhaps the largest and most meticulously preserved piece of history Vietnam has to offer, Hanoi is an absolute must-see for any history buff and aficionado of Vietnamese culture.

Places to Visit in Hanoi, Vietnam

Hoa Lo Prison: Prized with the tongue-in-cheek nickname of the Hanoi Hilton, Hoa Lo Prison was once the internment facility that housed prisoners of war from the United States during the Vietnam War. For any war history buffs, a visit to the Hoa Lo Prison is a moving experience. Most exhibits relate to the prison’s use up to the mid-1950s, focusing on the Vietnamese struggle for independence from France. A gruesome relic is the ominous French guillotine, used to behead Vietnamese revolutionaries, and several displays focus on the American pilots who were incarcerated at Hoa Lo during the American War.
Long Bien Bridge: A symbol of the courage and resilience of the Hanoian people, the Long Bien Bridge was bombed on several occasions during the American War, and each time quickly repaired by the Vietnamese. Built between 1899 and 1902 and designed by architects who came from Paris, this was the first steel bridge to span the iconic Red Bridge and is one of the focal points of Hanoi. Populated by trains, mopeds, and pedestrians, the bridge — that vibrantly lights up at night — is undergoing reconstruction to restore its original appearance.

Popular Destinations Near Hanoi

Halong Bay: One of the most world-renowned natural wonders in Southeast Asia, Halong Bay is too beautiful to be missed. Unsurprisingly dubbed as northern Vietnam's number one tourism hub, the bay was designated a World Heritage Site in 1994. Most visitors opt for cruise tours to explore the azure-hued waters, while a growing number are deciding to eschew the main bay completely, heading straight for Cat Ba Island from where trips to less-visited but equally alluring Lan Ha Bay are easily set up.

Best Neighborhoods in Hanoi

Hoan Kiem: A trip to Hanoi wouldn’t be complete without visiting the famous Hoan Kiem. Deemed as the historic soul of the city, the winding streets are some of the oldest in the country, and even with the onslaught of cars and motorbikes, these streets still ooze a trace of the tranquillity of bygone years. Temples, old gates, and traditional shops make for a busy neighborhood that will shock your senses. From luxury hotels to backpacker hostels, there’s something for everyone here.