Hanoi has been the capital of Vietnam for almost a thousand year, and hosts more cultural sites than any other city in the country, including over 600 pagodas and temples.

Hanoi Hotels

Hanoi is the capital of Vietnam and with an estimated population of 6.5 million its second largest city. Hanoi is a fascinating blend of East and West, with Chinese influence from centuries of dominance, and French design from its colonial past. Even though some relics have not survived through wars and time, the city still has many interesting cultural and historic monuments. Hanoi also has many green parks and scenic lakes and is sometimes called "city of lakes".

The Old Quarter, near Hoan Kiem Lake, has the original street layout and architecture of old Hanoi. In the past each street had merchants and households specialized in a particular trade, such as silk, jewelry etc. The street names nowadays still reflect these specializations, although a few of them remain exclusively in their original commerce. The area is famous for its small artisans and merchants, including many silk shops. Many visitors, particularly backpackers, choose this area as their base in Hanoi, and there are many guest houses and mini hotels. Local cuisine specialties as well as several clubs and bars can also be found here. A night marked in the heart of the district opens for business every Friday, Saturday and Sunday evening.

Among other famous sites in Hanoi are: the One Pillar Pagoda, built in 1049; the Temple of Literature, built in 1070 and the site of the oldest university in Vietnam; the 900 year Old Citadel in central Hanoi; the Flag Tower of Hanoi; Hanoi Opera House; and the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum. Of interest are also the charming French colonial mansions and boulevards.

Noi Bai International Airport is located 35 km north of the city. Several airlines from around the world service Noi Bay. Hanoi has many hotels in all categories to accommodate any kind of budgets. Hanoi has four distinct seasons. Winters can be quite chilly, summers hot and rainy. Spring and autumn are probably the best time to visit.