Hanoi and the North, Vietnam

Hanoi is a fascinating meeting of grand mansions, tree-lined boulevards and narrow shophouses, with everyday life spilling onto the streets of its atmospheric Old Quarter. Vietnam’s capital rewards a few days of exploring, from ancient temples and peaceful lakes to lively markets and some of the country’s most memorable food.

It’s also the gateway to northern Vietnam’s contrasting landscapes. Head towards Sapa for mountain trails, terraced rice fields and vibrant local markets, or continue to Halong Bay, where limestone islands rise from emerald waters.

Hanoi & the North highlights

Old Quarter & shopping

Explore Hanoi’s Old Quarter on foot or by cyclo, weaving through a bustling network of streets traditionally named after their trades. Silver Street, Paper Street and Silk Street reflect this history, while Hang Gai and Hang Bong combine boutiques selling art, home furnishings and ceramics with traditional shops offering herbal medicine and religious artefacts. Allow time to wander: watching daily life is as rewarding as browsing.

Travel Guide

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Where to stay in Hanoi & The North

La Siesta Premium Hang Be

Tucked away within the maze of streets in Hanoi’s vibrant Old Quarter, La Siesta Premium Hang Be is a gorgeous boutique hotel, with stylish interiors and the warmest of welcomes – ideal after a busy day exploring the city.

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Tam Coc Gardens

This charming boutique hotel has beautiful setting in the middle of rice paddies, surrounded by waterways and spectacular limestone karst scenery, it is remote and beautiful and nearby Tam Coc town is just 10 minutes’ drive away. Just one and a half hours south of Hanoi but a world away from the hustle and bustle of the city, we would urge anyone looking for a few days to discover some of Vietnam’s most understated, but beautiful scenery to visit Ninh Binh Province. It is the perfect retreat for a few days chill out in the midst of your Vietnam journey and guests can drive to Halong Bay from here, making it an easy addition between Hanoi and Halong Bay.

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Sofitel Legend Metropole, Hanoi

The Sofitel Legend Metropole has been an institution on the Hanoi hotel scene since its inception in 1901.　 With its elegant colonial style architecture and ideal location, just one block away from Hoan Kiem Lake in the heart of Hanoi, this is deservedly one of Hanoi's most popular hotels.

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Lan Ha Bay Cruise – Heritage Ginger

Your luxurious floating home, Heritage Line Ginger, sets sail around midday to explore the stunning beauty of Lan Ha Bay. Spend one unforgettable night aboard this exclusive and stylish vessel, where refined elegance meets ultimate comfort.

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Suggested itineraries for Hanoi & The North

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Beach and pool views from Six Senses Con Dao

Splendours of Vietnam & Luxury Beach

14 nights from £6,995 per person

Discover the best of Vietnam from north to south from Hanoi to Mekong Delta, including Halong Bay, Hue, Hoi An and…

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Ha Long Bay in Vietnam with boat and views

Vietnam Essentials & Beach

14 nights from £5,995 per person

A two-week top to toe journey through Vietnam, staying in luxury boutique hotels. Visit Hanoi - Halong Bay - Hoi An -…

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The Ultimate Round the World Adventure

30 nights from £15,995 per person

This itinerary brings together some of the world's most iconic destinations into one unforgettable journey, taking you…

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Four happy elephants in a line at elephant hills

Thailand Jungle & Beach for Families

12 nights from £12,995 per family

Merging together some of Thailand's most enigmatic landscapes, this itinerary is ideal for families looking to enjoy…

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Hidden Thailand & the Eastern Islands

12 nights from £3,395 per person

Discover Thailand's exciting city, Bangkok before heading east of Bangkok where you’ll find islands covered in…

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Very romantic private dining on candlelit beach at The Sarojin

Classic Thailand Bangkok, Chiang Mai & Khao Lak

12 nights from £2,645 per person

Witness three of Thailand's finest landscapes in one trip. Begin with a bang amid the city buzz of Bangkok before…

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Thailand Adventure - Bangkok, Khao Sok & Islands

14 nights from £5,775 per person

A brilliant Thailand itinerary for couples or families looking for a real mix of experiences, from buzzing city life…

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Luxury Thailand Beach Escape – Sarojin & Six Senses

10 nights from £4,795 per person

A wonderfully romantic twin-centre combining barefoot luxury in Khao Lak with an unforgettable island escape in Phang…

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Complete Philippines Island Hopping Adventure

14 nights from £6,185 per person

Combine three wonderfully wild and untouched islands of the Philippines and discover incredible marine life, unique…

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Hanoi & the North travel inspiration

Guide To Travelling In Vietnam | Your Questions Answered!

Our wonderful Asia Product Manager, Rachel and Travel Specialist, Katie have recently returned from a research trip to Vietnam. Their highlights included Mai Chau and Halong Bay for the scenery and Hue for the history, but they found the beaches …

Katie Owen

06 Sept 20235 mins read

Exploring Rural North Vietnam – Ninh Binh, Halong Bay & More

Our Asia Product Manager, Rachel Gleave, along with Asia Specialist, Katie Owen, recently returned from a journey into Vietnam’s beautiful northern landscapes to discover how best to incorporate a little local, rural life into your Vietnam holiday.

Rachel Gleave

06 Sept 20238 mins read

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