Sofitel Metropole Hanoi

The graceful Metropole has been an institution on the Hanoi hotel scene since its inception in 1901. With its colonial style architecture, refined elegance and wonderful location, it is deservedly one of Hanoi’s most popular hotels.

Stepping into the elegant lobby with its colonial era wooden décor and fresh cut flowers, you will immediately be aware of the hotel’s grandeur and history. The Sofitel Metropole has hosted distinguished guests including Charlie Chaplin, Somerset Maugham and Graham Greene. Jane Fonda broadcast from here during the Vietnam War and Joan Baez sang in the hotel’s bunker during an air raid.

Located on a broad street just one block away from the heart of Hanoi, the Hoan Kiem Lake, the Metropole enjoys a perfect location. The fascinating Old Quarter is within short walking distance and there are many excellent restaurants and boutiques nearby.

Recently refurbished, the hotel’s 265 rooms are divided between the old and new wings. Whilst the new wing boasts all of the modern conveniences that you would expect from an international hotel, it is the old wing which really captures the ambience and history of such an iconic hotel.

The hotel offers two restaurants – Le Beaulieu which is a French option and Spices Garden which enjoys a superb reputation as one of the best restaurants in Hanoi for Vietnamese cuisine. There are also four bars to choose from, including Le Pub and the elegant La Terrasse.

Facilities include designer name boutiques, a beauty salon, a gym, a spa and an outdoor swimming pool. The concierge will be able to recommend Hanoi’s top tables and you can even take a ride in one of the hotel’s monogrammed cyclos or in the classic 1930’s Citroen which is parked elegantly in the forecourt.

The rooms are furnished in a classic yet stylish way, with soft white linen, exceptionally comfortable beds and large bathtubs. Rooms include all the necessary amenities including hair dryers, safety box and satellite television.

PRICES Prices start from £66 per person per night in a Classic room or £78 per person per night in a Classic Deluxe room, based on two people sharing including breakfast. Fly via Hong Kong to Ho Chi Minh City or  Hanoi on the fabulous services of Cathay Pacific Airways.  Prices start from only £499 including taxes and fuel surcharges, but hurry, these fares have limited availability.