Like all other cities in Vietnam, Hanoi’s roads are ruled by motorbikes. It seems like everyone is in a hurry and they are fiercely determined to get there on time. Crossing a road in Hanoi can feel like a round of Russian roulette; however, we have some information for travellers which may be useful.

When you venture across take each step slowly and make eye contact with the oncoming drivers. The traffic is aware of you and will manoeuvre around you as long as you maintain a steady pace. Once you are on the road keep going and never turn back as this could be suicidal.

Like all cities, Hanoi has its fair share of crime; however, by exercising common sense and a dash of caution, travellers in Hanoi face little danger. There have been incidents of bags being snatched from pedestrians by motorbike thieves, so carrying your bag on your side facing away from the road is advised.

When walking around markets travellers should be aware that pickpockets are in operation. Visitors should conceal all valuables and only carry what is necessary. Keeping the bulk of your money or cheques either in a hotel safe or in a concealed pocket is the best bet.

Travellers in Hanoi should book train tickets and tours through a reputable agent, as sometimes small scale travel shops have scams in operation. Staff in legitimate hotels can usually be trusted, so if possible book tickets from your hotel’s travel agency.

Vietnam’s capital city of Hanoi sits on the right bank of the Red River, over 1000 miles north of Saigon. The city is characterized by a distinct mix of east and west. Buildings from the French colonial period cast reflections in the water, while the lengthy Chinese dominance still echoes around the city.

· Hanoi is looking forward to celebrating its 1000th anniversary in 2010.
· The population of Hanoi leapt from 3.1 million in 2005, to 6.2 million in 2007.
· The famous Hoan Kiem Lake literally translates as ‘Lake of the Returned Sword’.
· Hanoi consists of 29 districts.
· In 1994 Hanoi didn’t have any five star hotels, now there are eight dotted around the city.
· In total there are 181 hotels in Hanoi, with more than 8500 rooms.
· The average temperature in January is 62°F, while in July it is 85°F.
· Hanoi was crowned capital of Vietnam in the 7th century and has experienced both French and Japanese occupation throughout its history.
· Hanoi is Vietnam’s main transport hub, with two airports and rail connections to China.
· The main public holiday in Hanoi is Vietnamese New Year which is usually held at the end of January or beginning of February.
· There are more than 600 pagodas and temples in the city.
· Hanoi is Vietnam’s cultural centre boasting nine large museums as well as an array of galleries and entertainment venues.

Vietnam’s capital city of Hanoi sits on the right bank of the Red River, over 1000 miles north of Saigon. The city is characterized by a distinct mix of east and west. Buildings from the French colonial period cast reflections in the water, while the lengthy Chinese dominance still echoes around the city.

·Hanoi is looking forward to celebrating its 1000th anniversary in 2010.
·The population of Hanoi leapt from 3.1 million in 2005, to 6.2 million in 2007.
·The famous Hoan Kiem Lake literally translates as ‘Lake of the Returned Sword’.
·Hanoi consists of 29 districts.
·In 1994 Hanoi didn’t have any five star hotels, now there are eight dotted around the city.
·In total there are 181 hotels in Hanoi, with more than 8500 rooms.
·The average temperature in January is 62°F, while in July it is 85°F.
·Hanoi was crowned capital of Vietnam in the 7th century and has experienced both French and Japanese occupation throughout its history.
·Hanoi is Vietnam’s main transport hub, with two airports and rail connections to China.
·The main public holiday in Hanoi is Vietnamese New Year which is usually held at the end of January or beginning of February.
·There are more than 600 pagodas and temples in the city.
·Hanoi is Vietnam’s cultural centre boasting nine large museums as well as an array of galleries and entertainment venues.

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