The El Camino Travel Guide to Hanoi, Vietnam
Written by Kayla Doris
Welcome to Hanoi, where the streets are heaving, the scooter horns are blaring, the coffee is strong, and the pho is piping hot. Vietnam’s capital city will keep you on your toes. You’ll be taking in the lively street life, checking for oncoming scooters, smelling sizzling street food, and navigating narrow streets, all at the same time. Located in the north, Hanoi is the historical heart of the country. While Ho Chi Minh City has a modern and cosmopolitan buzz, Hanoi has retained its traditional soul with French-style buildings, ancient temples, and its famed Old Quarter—one of the oldest urban areas in Southeast Asia which has survived numerous periods of conflict. In the French Quarter, you’ll find spacious roads, leafy boulevards, and grand buildings that were originally created to replicate Paris. Having endured centuries of occupation from foreign countries, the blend of Southeast Asian, Chinese, and French influences makes Hanoi unlike anywhere else. As you discover the historical layers of the city and what the Vietnamese have endured, you'll be amazed at how their culture and identity have withstood. You might find the city charming or you might find it chaotic, but one thing is for sure—it is never ever dull. The best way to enjoy Hanoi? Pull up a street stall, order some heavenly food, and watch it all unfold in front of you.
We’ve gathered exclusive intel from our own Vietnam tours to craft this guide and included insights from ECT Vietnam Expert and Experiences Curator at Secret Indochina—Jonathan Morana, plus local residents, Brian McDonald, founder of A Taste of Hanoi, Cong Le Trong, cofounder of OneTrip With Local, and Ben Reich from Kilomet109.
Eat
“Michelin-starred Vietnamese restaurants are quite new to Hanoi’s dining scene. We’ve had international fine dining restaurants but now there are a few serving Vietnamese menus and they’re fantastic—especially for the price you pay in comparison to somewhere like New York,” says Brian McDonald, founder of A Taste of Hanoi. He recommends trying Chapter, which serves artistic dishes with a zero-waste ethos. Note that Brian says reservations are a must.
Also included in the guide:
A beautiful dining room designed to reflect Vietnam’s mountains and forests
A social enterprise that offers a mixture of Western, Vietnamese, and Southeast Asian dishes
Street food favorites from bun cha to mien tron muc
Image credit: Tadioto
Shop
Stop into Kilomet109 to discover a slow fashion brand that celebrates traditional techniques, heritage, and small-batch production. The store is founded by designer and artist, Thao Vu, who places emphasis on the items being handcrafted by human artisans rather than mass-produced by machines. Artisans around Vietnam will grow, spin, weave, print and naturally dye the Kilomet109 fabrics, before being hand-stitched into garments in the Hanoi design studio. Find it located in the West Lake district.
Also included in the guide:
A charming haven for unique gifts and souvenirs
A premium local brand renowned for its craftsmanship in lacquerware
Image credit: Chapter
Drink
Tadioto is a welcoming spot known for its friendly atmosphere, making it a great choice for both drinks and Japanese food/snacks. It offers a relaxed setting to unwind and savor delicious bites. With its diverse menu and laid-back ambiance, Tadioto is a top choice for those seeking a casual yet enjoyable dining experience in the city. Find it located in the Hoan Kiem District.
Also included in the guide:
A 1930s French villa that serves the best coffee in the city
A trendy gem located on the south side of the Hoan Kiem Lake Park, known for its inventive cocktails and fine wine selection
Contemporary cafes to visit if you’re looking for a laptop-friendly space
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