Search Flights to Hanoi
Hanoi at a Glance
Why Hanoi Should Be Your Next Trip
Hanoi is Vietnam's enchanting capital where centuries-old pagodas sit beneath French colonial facades, where the Old Quarter's 36 streets each specialize in a different trade continuing a guild tradition from the 15th century. A bowl of steaming pho at a sidewalk stall costs less than a dollar, and the city's coffee culture includes egg coffee (ca phe trung) invented in 1946. Hanoi is atmospheric with misty mornings over Hoan Kiem Lake, chaotic motorbike traffic, and a deeply authentic character that newer Asian capitals cannot replicate.
Best Time to Visit Hanoi
October through December and March through April offer the most comfortable weather with lower humidity and clear skies. Summer (May-September) is hot and humid with occasional heavy rain. January and February can be cool and foggy. The Tet holiday (late January/February) brings celebrations but also peak domestic travel prices. February and March are the most humid months. December is the driest and coolest month with temperatures around 15-20 degrees C.
Airlines Flying to Hanoi
Vietnam Airlines operates from Noi Bai with domestic and international routes. VietJet Air provides budget connections across Asia. Bamboo Airways serves select international routes. Qatar, Turkish, and Emirates connect Hanoi via hubs. Korean Air and Asiana serve routes via Seoul. ANA connects via Tokyo. China Southern and Air China connect to Chinese cities. AirAsia and Scoot provide budget regional connections from Southeast Asian hubs.
Airports Serving Hanoi
Noi Bai International Airport (HAN) is 35 km from the city center with express buses reaching the Old Quarter in 45-60 minutes for 50,000 VND. Taxis cost 300,000-400,000 VND (12-16 USD). There is no rail connection to the airport yet. The airport has two modern terminals -- T1 domestic and T2 international. The highway to the city has been upgraded reducing travel time.
Budget Tips for Hanoi
Hanoi is one of Asia's cheapest capitals -- street food meals cost 30,000-70,000 VND (1-3 USD). The Old Quarter is walkable and many attractions charge minimal entry fees (30,000-50,000 VND). Take overnight trains to Sapa instead of flights for scenery at lower cost. Buy a local SIM card at the airport for 100,000 VND with unlimited data. Book a free walking tour with Hanoi Free Tour Guides for local student-led exploration.
Top Things to Do in Hanoi
- Old Quarter -- 36 historic streets each named for its traditional craft, with colonial architecture, silk shops, and sidewalk pho stalls.
- Hoan Kiem Lake and Ngoc Son Temple -- The spiritual heart of Hanoi with a pagoda on an island, the red Huc Bridge, and the turtle tower.
- Temple of Literature -- Vietnam's first university founded 1076, with five courtyard gardens and stone steles on turtle backs.
- Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum -- The final resting place of Vietnam's revolutionary leader in a monumental marble building in Ba Dinh Square.
- Water Puppet Theatre -- A traditional Vietnamese art form with puppets on water, accompanied by live folk music at Thang Long Theatre.
Where to Stay in Hanoi
The Old Quarter puts you in the heart of the action with guesthouses from 10-40 USD per night and street food at your doorstep. Hoan Kiem Lake area offers mid-range hotels from 30-80 USD with lake views and walking distance to attractions. French Quarter provides upscale colonial-era hotels from 50-150 USD in quieter, tree-lined streets. Tay Ho (West Lake) is the expat area with good restaurants and apartments from 25-60 USD. Budget hostels in the Old Quarter from 5-10 USD.
What is the best time of year to visit Hanoi?
The best time to visit Hanoi is October-December. During these months, the weather is pleasant and you will avoid peak tourist crowds. Book early for the best rates during these popular travel periods.
Do I need a visa to visit Hanoi, Vietnam?
Visa requirements for Vietnam depend on your nationality. Many countries offer visa-free entry for short stays. Check the latest entry requirements on the official immigration website before booking, as policies can change.
How many days should I spend in Hanoi?
A minimum of 4-5 days is recommended for Hanoi to explore the main attractions without rushing. For a more relaxed pace or to take day trips, plan for 7-10 days. Hanoi offers plenty to see and do for longer stays.
Is Hanoi expensive for tourists?
Flights to Hanoi start from $520 round trip. Daily costs vary. Hanoi offers options for every budget. Budget travelers can expect to spend $50-80 per day, while mid-range travelers should budget $120-200 per day including accommodation, food, and activities.
Popular Flights from Hanoi
No direct routes currently available from Hanoi. Check back soon for new flight connections!