Where to Stay in Hanoi: Best Areas & Accommodations
Hanoi, the capital city of Vietnam, is a fascinating blend of ancient history and modern vitality. With nearly 8 million people calling this bustling metropolis home, it's a city of contrasts where French colonial architecture stands alongside traditional Vietnamese temples and sleek skyscrapers. As the cultural and political heart of Vietnam, Hanoi is typically either the first or last stop on most travellers' Vietnam itineraries.
Nestled in the northern region of Vietnam, Hanoi offers visitors an authentic glimpse into Vietnamese life. The city is surprisingly compact, with most major attractions concentrated within a few key districts. This makes it an ideal city to explore on foot, allowing you to soak in the atmosphere of its narrow, winding streets, sample delicious street food, and experience the somewhat organised chaos that gives Hanoi its undeniable charm.
In this guide, I'll share my experiences and recommendations for the best areas to stay in Hanoi, along with top hostel and hotel picks to suit every budget and travel style.
Contents
- Which Areas to Stay in Hanoi
- Best Hostels in Hanoi
- Best Hotels in Hanoi
- Frequently Asked Questions About Where to Stay in Hanoi
Which Areas to Stay in Hanoi
One of the best things about Hanoi is how walkable the city is. No matter where you choose to stay, you'll be able to reach most major attractions on foot. That said, some areas definitely offer more convenience and atmosphere than others.
The area around Hoan Kiem Lake is arguably the most picturesque part of the city, with beautiful views across the water and easy access to historic landmarks like Ngoc Son Temple. However, be prepared for the crowds—this area is CRAZY busy with both tourists and locals, and the traffic can be quite intense. The narrow streets surrounding the lake make up Hanoi's Old Quarter, which is filled with charming shops, restaurants, and colonial architecture.
Just north of the smaller Truc Bach Lake, there's a cluster of backpacker hostels that have formed a kind of social hub for travellers. This area is perfect if you're looking to meet other backpackers and enjoy Hanoi's nightlife. It's slightly removed from the most hectic parts of the Old Quarter but still within easy walking distance of all the main attractions.
Tay Ho District (also known as West Lake area) offers a more upscale and relaxed atmosphere, with beautiful views of West Lake and plenty of expat-friendly restaurants and cafes. It's a bit further from the main tourist attractions but provides a peaceful retreat from the city's hustle and bustle.
For those interested in Hanoi's cultural and political history, Ba Dinh District is home to important sites like Ho Chi Minh's Mausoleum, the Presidential Palace, and various government buildings. This area has a more formal atmosphere but is still within walking distance of the Old Quarter.
The French Quarter (Hai Ba Trung district) offers wider boulevards, luxury hotels, and elegant colonial architecture. This is where you'll find the Hanoi Opera House and upscale shopping options, making it ideal for those seeking a more refined experience.
From my experience travelling around Hanoi, I didn't encounter any areas that felt particularly dangerous. As with any city, it's always good to exercise normal precautions, but Hanoi generally feels quite safe for tourists, even after dark in the main areas.
🇻🇳 Recommended Reading: A Travel Guide to Hanoi
Best Hostels in Hanoi
Based on recommendations from friends (I unfortunately had a terrible experience with my own hostel choice—chronically unhelpful staff, dirty rooms, and no hot water in the showers), here are some top hostel options in Hanoi:
Hanoi Backpackers Hostel
This popular hostel has two locations in Hanoi—one in the Old Quarter and one near Hoan Kiem Lake. Both offer clean dorms, private rooms, and an active social scene. They organize various events and tours, including the famous "Castaway" Ha Long Bay trip. Dorm beds start from around 200kVND (8€) per night, making it excellent value for money. The staff are known for being incredibly helpful with booking onward travel and offering local recommendations.
Mad Monkey Hanoi
If you're looking for a party atmosphere, Mad Monkey is your go-to option. Located near the Old Quarter, this hostel has a lively bar, regular events, and a rooftop terrace. Just be aware that sleep might not be your primary activity here! Dorm beds typically cost around 250kVND (10€) per night. It's perfect for solo travellers looking to meet others, but perhaps not ideal if you're hoping for a peaceful night's rest after exploring the city.
Lake View Backpackers Hostel
As the name suggests, this hostel offers great views of Hoan Kiem Lake. It's a bit quieter than the other options but still social enough to meet fellow travellers. The location is perfect—right in the heart of the city with easy access to cultural attractions and street food. Dorm beds start from approximately 180kVND (7€) per night. They also offer a free breakfast which, according to my friends, is actually quite decent compared to the standard hostel fare.
🇻🇳 Recommended Reading: The Best Hostels in Hanoi
Best Hotels in Hanoi
For those seeking more comfort and privacy, Hanoi offers a range of excellent hotels at very reasonable prices compared to Western standards:
The Cosy Inn Hanoi Hotel
This charming boutique hotel in the Old Quarter offers comfortable rooms with modern amenities at mid-range prices. It's known for its exceptionally friendly staff and convenient location within walking distance of major attractions. Rooms start from around 800kVND (32€) per night. The hotel's small size gives it a homey atmosphere, and they offer thoughtful touches like welcome drinks and fruit plates.
La Renta Hotel & Spa
Located in the heart of the Old Quarter, this hotel combines traditional Vietnamese elements with modern comforts. The on-site spa offers a perfect way to relax after a day of exploring Hanoi's narrow streets. Rooms begin at approximately 1,200kVND (48€) per night. The breakfast buffet here is particularly good, featuring both Western and Vietnamese options.
Kingdom Hotel
This hotel offers excellent value in a central location near Hoan Kiem Lake. The rooms are spacious and well-appointed, and the staff are known for going above and beyond to help guests. Prices start around 700kVND (28€) per night. Several rooms offer balconies overlooking the bustling street life below, giving you a perfect vantage point to observe local life.
Veris Hotel
Situated in a quiet alley just off the busy streets of the Old Quarter, Veris Hotel provides a peaceful retreat while still being in the heart of the action. Modern rooms, a rooftop bar, and helpful staff make this a great choice. Room rates begin at approximately 900kVND (36€) per night. Their rooftop offers some lovely city views, especially in the evening when the city lights come on.
Golden Art Hotel
This stylish hotel in the Old Quarter features beautifully designed rooms with artistic touches. It's within easy walking distance of Hoan Kiem Lake and offers excellent service. Prices start from around 1,000kVND (40€) per night. The hotel also arranges interesting city tours that take you beyond the typical tourist routes to experience more authentic aspects of Hanoi.
For luxury options, Hanoi also boasts some world-class establishments like the historic Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi and the chic Hotel de l'Opera Hanoi, both offering five-star experiences that blend French colonial charm with Vietnamese hospitality.
Frequently Asked Questions About Where to Stay in Hanoi
What is the best area in Hanoi to stay?
For first-time visitors, the area around Hoan Kiem Lake and the Old Quarter is generally considered the best place to stay. This central location puts you within walking distance of major attractions, restaurants, and shopping. However, if you prefer a quieter atmosphere, the West Lake area (Tay Ho District) offers a more relaxed environment while still being accessible to the city centre.
Should you stay in the Old Quarter in Hanoi?
The Old Quarter is an excellent choice if you want to be in the heart of Hanoi's historic centre and don't mind the noise and bustle. It's perfect for those who want to experience the authentic atmosphere of the city, with its narrow streets, traditional shops, and abundant street food options. However, if you're sensitive to noise or prefer more spacious surroundings, you might consider staying in the French Quarter or Tay Ho District instead.
Which area is the centre of Hanoi?
Hoan Kiem District, particularly the area surrounding Hoan Kiem Lake, is considered the centre of Hanoi. This district includes the Old Quarter and is the historical and commercial heart of the city. Most major attractions, including Ngoc Son Temple, the Water Puppet Theatre, and Dong Xuan Market, are located in or near this district, making it the primary focus for most tourists.
What is the best luxury hotel in Hanoi?
The Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi is widely regarded as the premier luxury hotel in the city. This historic property dates back to 1901 and offers a colonial-era charm combined with modern amenities. For a more contemporary luxury experience, the InterContinental Hanoi Westlake and Capella Hanoi are excellent alternatives, each offering distinctive design elements and exceptional service.
Is Hanoi Old Quarter safe at night?
Yes, the Old Quarter is generally very safe at night. It remains lively into the evening with night markets, restaurants, and bars staying open late. As always when travelling, it's wise to take normal precautions like being aware of your surroundings and keeping valuables secure, but violent crime against tourists is extremely rare in Hanoi.
Conclusion
Choosing where to stay in Hanoi largely depends on your travel style, budget, and what you hope to experience in this fascinating city. The good news is that Hanoi's compact size means that regardless of where you stay, you'll be able to explore most of the city with ease.
For first-time visitors and those who want to be in the thick of things, the Old Quarter and Hoan Kiem Lake area offer the most authentic Hanoi experience, despite the crowds and noise. If you're looking for a balance between convenience and tranquility, the French Quarter provides wider streets and a more relaxed atmosphere while still being central.
Budget travellers will find plenty of excellent hostels clustered around the northern part of the Old Quarter, while mid-range and luxury travelers have options throughout the city, from boutique hotels in historic buildings to international luxury chains.
Whatever your preference, Hanoi is a city that rewards exploration on foot, so don't be afraid to choose accommodation that might be a short walk from the main attractions. Often, these walks through the less touristy areas provide the most memorable glimpses into everyday life in Vietnam's captivating capital city.
