Hanoi

Vietnam

"Lakes, the Old Quarter & Vietnam's Capital Energy"

Hanoi gathers around Hoan Kiem Lake, where Turtle Tower stands on a small island and the old quarter spills north in a grid of tube houses, scooters, and food stalls. The Temple of Literature, the French Quarter, and a water-puppet show round out the city, and many travelers add a Ha Long Bay overnight as a separate trip, not as the city itself. It is busy, flavorful, and still gentle on a daily budget if you mix street food with a comfortable hotel.

Hoan Kiem Lake & Turtle Tower, Old Quarter, Temple of Literature, Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum complex, Train Street (if open), water puppets, Ha Long Bay as a separate overnight

October–April

Apply for the e-visa before travel; cross streets slowly and steadily; agree taxi fares or use Grab

Do not sell a Ha Long photo as Hanoi. The city is the lake and the old quarter; the bay is a day or overnight away.

📍 Turtle Tower on Hoan Kiem Lake, Hanoi