The weather in Hanoi runs the gauntlet between being wet, hot and humid and severe cold. But rest assured there is always something special in the area to enjoy depending on what season you choose to visit.

Spring brings the annual Tet holiday and this is when flowers are blooming and the city is at its most glorious. Locals of Hanoi believe that the light rain of this time bring good luck for the new lunar year and prosperity.

When summer comes along the heat and humidity become unbearable. Mosquitos come out in force along with other nasty insects so diseases such as malaria and dengue fever can become a serious problem. It is always wise to cover up (despite the searing heat!) and wear repellent, especially during the evening.

The autumn in Hanoi becomes much more tolerable with less moisture in the air and temperatures dropping to such a degree that jacket and jumpers are often sported by the Hanoians. Plus the indigenous species of ‘cay hoa sua’ tree only flowers at this time of year so and wondering the ancient streets is characterised by the scent of this distinctive aroma.

Winter is in fact quite brutal as there is a strange combination of cold and humidity. Many houses in this city don’t have any system of heating, making Hanoi appear colder than elsewhere in the country. It is wise to pack carefully and wear layers as the midday sun is still very fierce.

Hanoi’s 3.5 million residents are spoilt by a city which is liberally dotted with parks, lakes, coffee shops and a modern bar and restaurant scene. A large number of ex-pats have settled in the city, conquered by its distinct charm and character.

Hanoi’s weather is much more bearable for westerners than other South East Asian cities, such as Bangkok or Saigon. Summers are hot, but tolerable; the cooler season is refreshing without being bitterly cold.

It is easy to find accommodation in the city, although it is worth spending time checking all the available options. Prices range but in general a fully furnished two bedroom house with cable TV and hot water, will cost around US$300. If you can afford to pay more you might fancy renting a refurbished French villa overlooking one of Hanoi’s beautiful lakes.

Day to day life can be enjoyed for a relatively cheap price. If you stick to the local food and drink, then you can live very cheap. However, imported beers and international restaurants will set you back a bit more. The French left behind a legacy of excellent bread and delicious coffee, so these western staples are available for a matter of cents.

If you prefer the buzz of city life to the peace of the countryside or coast, then Hanoi is a very liveable city for a westerner. There is a large community of ex-pats in the city, as well as a constant stream of visitors, so there is always a familiar face to have a chat with.

Historic Hanoi

Experience one of Asia’s oldest capitals, wrapped around 1000 years of legend from the mystical Hoan Kiem Lake. Dodge swarms of motorcycles, marvel at the ancient pagodas or shop in the ancient Hang districts. Hanoi is Vietnam’s proud, living museum of a capital, draped in Communist sensibility but brimming with life.

This blog will soon become a full travel guide to Hanoi, to help you get the most out of your visit to North Vietnam. It’s written by a well travelled Southeast Asian expert and produced by guide experts, to soon include hundreds of pages and dozens of pictures of Hanoi at its best and busiest.

Use this site to plan your trip, whether you plan to cruise beautiful Halong Bay, disappear into the intriguing mountains of the Perfume Pagoda, or go trekking amoung the montagnards of the Sapa highlands. Find out what a Com Pho is, how to pronounce Ao Dai (in the North) and why Ho Chi Minh is the saviour of the city. It’s all found here.

Day trips: there’s some fantastic day trips or overnight excursions from Hanoi, such as Halong Bay and the Perfume Pagoda, but you’ll need a hire car and driver to get there (Note! rental cars in Vietnam come with drivers since tourists are not supposed to drive). You can arrange this before hand with online car hire companies.

About Hanoi
All the basic facts for tourists visiting the city plus top tips for the interpid traveller… more

What to see
All the top attractions listed in detail including tours and highlights for those short on time… more

What to do
Whether you want to shopping for gifts, indulge in some pampering, play sport or see the sights… more

Hospitality
Everything from cheap rooms in hostels to the best luxury hotels in town plus spa, restaurant and nightlife tips… more

Shopping
Whether you need to pick up a few essentials or a seeking out that perfect wedding present, we’ve got the inside scoop… more

North Vietnam
Guide to areas of the countries which are an easy leap away from Hanoi for when the city gets too much… more

Vietnamese Culture
This diverse and oft-misunderstood land is begging to be discovered by cultured visitors… more

Living here
Complete guide to everthing an expat is every going to need for long-term stays in Hanoi… more

Getting here
All your transport needs taken care of in one simple section including plane, train or taxi… more