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Where to Stay in Hanoi

By Santorini Dave

Our Favorite Hotels in Hanoi

• 5-star: Capella
• 4-star: Scent Premium
• 3-star: Golden Sun
• New: Media Central
• Boutique: La Siesta
• Cheap: Golden Sun
• For families: Fraser
• Couples: Capella
• Pool: Peridot Grand

From a tall building, the view of a lake and rooftops in Hanoi, Vietnam.

Our view of West Lake from the Sheraton, only a short taxi trip from the Old Quarter.

The Best Areas to Stay in Hanoi

The capital of Vietnam is exhilarating and pulsating, yet disorderly and frustrating. It’s vital to stay in an area based on your interests, budget, and ability to walk and tolerate chaos.

Hanoi Neighborhoods – My Recommendations

Gold pedestals and shelves hold lemons, oranges, plants, and figurines at a temple in the old quarter in Hanoi Viet Nam.

One of the many temples in the Old Quarter.

Most visitors understandably want to stay in the Old Quarter, which is historic, compact but crowded. It’s my favorite area to stay in Hanoi but for first-timers it might be just too much. Access can be difficult by vehicle. Parked motorcycles, boxes of merchandise, and trees overtake the sidewalks, making walking challenging and getting lost a regular occurrence. The pencil-thin streets and alleyways are jam-packed with budget-price guesthouses and mid-range boutique hotels. But there are many worthwhile alternatives elsewhere across Hanoi.

Around Hoàn Kiếm Lake, more space and greenery exist than elsewhere in the Old Quarter. The picturesque lake is a vital respite and landmark for exhausted visitors. The northern part of the Old Quarter is of better value and more authentic, but it is still very crowded and quite disorienting. The streets are generally wider, so walking is marginally less dangerous.

The quieter area immediately south of the Old Quarter is convenient to walk to the Old Quarter without the trouble of staying there. The streets are wide and leafy, and the facilities and homes are considerably more upscale. The elegant French Quarter is a few minute’s walk east of Hoàn Kiếm Lake. It’s home to the world-famous opera house and several luxury hotels. With broad boulevards, cafes, patches of greenery, and a glitzy mall, this area seems a world away from the Old Quarter. Yet it’s so close.

About 10 minutes by taxi from the Old Quarter, the area south along West Lake is lined with luxury hotels. It offers the sort of space, gardens, and views not possible in the Old Quarter. Further north along West Lake, fancy apartment buildings fill the skyline, catering mainly to upper-class locals and visiting business people. Malls offer smart boutiques and international-brand coffee shops.

Around inner-western Hanoi, there are mostly business hotels, so tourists are a rarity, which is an attraction in itself. With miniature lakes and massive malls, this area offers a genuine slice of middle-class life without the trappings of mass tourism.

Getting Around Hanoi

Two people dressed in green "Grab" jackets sit on motorcycles, waiting for customers.

Book trips for Grab motorbike taxis at set fares using the Grab app.

Most tourists stay in the Old Quarter (or at least visit this area most days), so the range of transport options is impressive – and many are conveniently located around the northern part of the lake. The most reliable taxi company is Mai Linh, and drivers will use meters with little prompting. Cheaper and certainly quicker, especially around the Old Quarter, is Grab motorbike taxis. Use the excellent ride-share app (like Uber) for a set fare rather than deal with drivers directly on the streets.

Two men in red jackets pedal rickshaws with customers in a front seat down a street.

Cycle rickshaws are a fabulous way to leisurely explore the Old Quarter.

From near the Central Post Office on the eastern side of the lake, the orange #89 Express Bus (with limited stops) heads hourly to the airport. Other transport options for exploring the Old Quarter are electric cars/minibusses (with driver) and cycle rickshaws (with driver). Sightseeing across the whole city is hassle-free using the Hanoi City Tour hop-on hop-off bus.

A red bus with Hanoi City Tour printed in white on its side.

It’s easy to get around in the city with the Hanoi City Tour hop-on hop-off bus.

Safety in Hanoi

The most significant possible danger for all visitors is getting hit by a vehicle while crossing the street – or even walking along a sidewalk. Take much more caution than you would at home and make two assumptions: everyone will completely ignore road rules, and pedestrians have absolutely no rights whatsoever.

Also, take the usual precautions around crowded streets, markets, and bus stations, where opportunistic petty crimes like bag-snatching and pick-pocketing can be prevalent. Far from the irritations of mass tourism and traffic chaos found elsewhere in Hanoi is the tranquil and safe area around Golden Lake (Giảng Võ), only 5km west of the Old Quarter.

The Best Places to Stay in Hanoi

A green gray painted ornate metal fence lines a path to the hotel entrance.

The incredible design of the Peridot Grand Luxury Hotel.

Best Areas in Hanoi for…

  • Best Area in Hanoi for First-Time Visitors: South of the Old Quarter
    Never underestimate the possible distress of dealing with the unrelenting traffic, noise, and crowds around the Old Quarter (with some respite along Hoàn Kiếm Lake). As mentioned several times earlier, this hopelessly congested section of Hanoi can be overwhelming, even for those accustomed to traveling around Asia. Anyone visiting Hanoi or Vietnam for the first time should consider this and stay elsewhere. Traffic flows comparatively well along the broad, shady streets south of the Old Quarter, and pedestrians can even use sidewalks. Yet this area is within walking distance of the historic Old Quarter, elegant French Quarter, and tranquil Golden Lake (Giảng Võ), which offers a slice of Hanoi life unaffected by mass tourism.
  • Best Area in Hanoi for Sightseeing: Around Hoàn Kiếm Lake
    The tall white stone entrance to the Lotus Water Puppet theater.

    In a beautiful old building midway along the western edge of Hoàn Kiếm Lake is the Lotus Water Puppet Theater.

    While there are not a lot of must-sees within the Old Quarter, this ancient part of Hanoi is a major attraction. Walk (cautiously) along overcrowded streets and narrow lanes. Stumble across ancient Chinese temples and memorials to Vietnamese heroes and dynamic produce markets. Sights to see around the lake area include St. Joseph’s Cathedral; Lotus Water Puppet Theater, and Ngoc Son Temple on the tiny island in the lake. Great transportation options (see later) around the lake allow easy access to sights elsewhere around the city, like the Hanoi Zoo, Ho Chi Minh’s Mausoleum (which is extraordinary), and the various war museums.

  • Best Area in Hanoi for Families: North along West Lake
    The Old Quarter is no place for those traveling with children under 15. Sidewalks are used for anything but pedestrians, so everyone must walk along the streets, which are all narrow and jammed with trucks, buses, cars, and motorbikes – none of which obey any road rules. In fact, during many days of recent research, we did not see one family of foreign travelers in the Old Quarter. To explore this area, use a cycle rickshaw or join an organized tour – and stay elsewhere. High-rise hotels and apartment buildings north along West Lake (Hồ Tây) provide space, gardens, and fresh air not available in the Old Quarter. They also have a large outdoor pool, kids’ club, and kitchen facilities, so they are ideal for families and those staying for a while. Western-style malls and familiar fast-food outlets are also nearby.
  • Best Area in Hanoi for Vibe and Culture: Northern Part of the Old Quarter
    Hanoi was built over 1000 years ago and is regarded as Southeast Asia’s oldest functioning capital city. It’s a treasure trove of culture and history that has survived French colonial reconstruction and the Vietnam War (known locally as the “American War”). Tracing its roots to the 13th century and built as a dedicated commercial district, the Old Quarter is a compact, pulsating, and overcrowded muddle of narrow streets still dominated by businesses. Among the travel agencies, spas, and jewelry boutiques are numerous markets, temples, workshops, phở noodle stalls, and family homes only accessible by implausibly narrow tunnels. Visitors can spend days exploring the Old Quarter. It’s easier around the northern part where traffic flows better, some sidewalks are accessible to pedestrians, shops are less touristy, and traders are not so pushy.
  • Best Area in Hanoi for Nightlife: French Quarter
    A cello, drum set, amplifier, and piano sit in a corner of a performance club.

    The Binh Minh Jazz Club is popular with locals.

    The finest options for after-dark action are the sophisticated nightclubs in the French Quarter. Two great ones are the Binh Minh Jazz Club and, right next door, the Beatro Gastro-Lounge. These drinking spots cater primarily to upper-class Vietnamese, but tourists are always welcome. Otherwise, a performance at the prestigious Hanoi Opera House is a highlight, though it’s sung in the Vietnamese language, it’s still enjoyable.

  • Best Area in Hanoi for Food and Restaurants: French Quarter
    An ornate dining room is lit up with lights and gold mirrors, red velvet chairs, and tables with white linens and wine glasses.

    Even if you’re not staying at the extraordinary Capella hotel, try to visit one of the bistros or bars there, like Backstage with costumes on display from opera performances.

    In recent years, many restaurants in the Old Quarter have closed and been replaced with spas. There are still eateries around the Old Quarter, but almost all are along busy traffic streets. For a diverse choice of cuisine and a tranquil setting, stroll along the leafy, wide streets of the French Quarter. Definitely try one of the restaurants within these extraordinary hotels: Metropole, Hotel de l’Opera, and, especially, Capella. Or enjoy a meal at the stylish Pane e Vino Italian restaurant, funky La Table Hanoi, or the outdoor café in the gardens of the opera house.

    Women sit at tables along a path under white umbrellas.

    While the majestic Hanoi Opera House is only open for performances, anyone can enjoy a quiet drink or meal at the reasonably-priced café in the gardens.

  • Best Area in Hanoi for Peace and Quiet: Inner-Western Hanoi (around Golden Lake)
    As the capital and second-largest city (after Ho Chi Minh City), Hanoi is noisy. Traffic, especially in the Old Quarter, is relentless and getting worse as locals swap motorbikes for cars and park anywhere they want. One of the very few places in Hanoi where it is possible to escape the traffic, crowds, and noise is Golden Lake (Giảng Võ). It’s a pleasant area in the inner-west, only 5km from Hoàn Kiếm Lake. The quiet, shady streets and laidback outdoor cafes are popular with locals seeking a respite from the urban chaos. Tourists are a rare sight, which is another reason the area is so relaxed.
  • Best Area in Hanoi for a Romantic Holiday: South along West Lake
    More appropriate places in Vietnam come to mind for a romantic holiday than Hanoi. These include the adorable, ancient town of Hoi An, the Vietnamese honeymoon capital of Dalat in the cooler highlands, and the stunning tropical isle of Phú Quốc. Within Hanoi, the Old Quarter is too crowded and noisy for a peaceful, intimate holiday, so stay in the area south along West Lake (Hồ Tây). The lake is embraced by a quiet pathway ideal for walking (plenty of locals stroll around hand-in-hand). For cycling, bike rental is only available for guests at certain hotels; there are no rental shops. Elegant cafés facing the water and chic restaurants along the main roads are perfect for sipping coffee, chatting, and watching people.
  • Best Areas in Hanoi for Views: South and North along West Lake
    Let’s be honest: Hanoi is not that attractive. Unlike tourist destinations in Vietnam, such as Hoi An, Hue, and Nha Trang, the capital isn’t on the coast. Most accommodations in the historic and overcrowded Old Quarter are compact, low-level hotels and guesthouses. Windows face a neighbor’s wall or other hotel windows. And some rooms have no windows at all. Offering space, gardens, facilities, and views are the high-rise hotels and apartment buildings scattered along the southern and northern edges of West Lake (Hồ Tây), about 5km north of the Old Quarter. Most rooms offer extended and uninterrupted views across the sprawling suburbs and lake.
  • Best Area in Hanoi to Organize Tours: Northern Part of the Old Quarter
    A young man sits at travel desk surrounded by bright blue and red posters advertising day trips.

    The Old Quarter, especially in the northern part, is packed with travel agencies that sell organized tours and outdoor activities.

    Travel agencies pack the streets and alleys across the Old Quarter. Most are one-person operations working on a commission for trips organized by other major companies. The Old Quarter is best explored on foot or cycle rickshaw. Other attractions, like the Zoo and mausoleum, can easily be visited by taxi or on the Hanoi City Tour hop-on hop-off bus. Popular organized tours outside of Hanoi include the Perfume Pagoda, Ba Vi National Park, and Tam Dao hill station. Longer trips are easy to arrange to Sapa and the emerald waters of Halong Bay. Almost all organized tours include pick-up and drop-off at your hotel, which is easier along the wider streets in the northern part of the Old Quarter.

  • Best Area in Hanoi for Outdoor Activities: Northern Part of the Old Quarter
    The travel agencies mentioned above also sell organized trips for outdoor activities, but researching online, especially about safety, is always worthwhile. There aren’t many outdoor things to do in and around Hanoi, but the more adventurous might want to kayak or rock-climb at Halong Bay in northeastern Vietnam or hike around Ba Vi National Park. Most visitors save their energy, time, and money for hiking around Sapa’s astonishing landscapes and traditional villages, about 320km northwest of Hanoi. As explained above, almost all organized tours include pick-up and drop-off at your hotel, which is far easier along the wider streets in the northern part of the Old Quarter.
  • Best Area in Hanoi for Walking: South of the Old Quarter
    For most visitors, walking around the Old Quarter is not enjoyable. Sidewalks are jam-packed with parked motorbikes, food stalls, and anything else that can’t fit into a shop. Walking along the streets is fundamentally dangerous. To survive: (1) accept that pedestrians have zero rights – not even on sidewalks; and (2) assume that no one will obey road rules – especially at traffic lights. In contrast, the area just south of the Old Quarter provides wide streets where traffic flows and sidewalks that pedestrians can actually use.
  • Best Area in Hanoi for Cycling: South along West Lake
    A row of pale blue bicycles sit inside the lobby of a hotel.

    Bicycles for rent for guests staying at West Lake 254D.

    The nicest area to explore on two wheels is along the streets and paths that hug the southern area of West Lake (Hồ Tây), about 4km north of the Old Quarter. Sadly, there are no bike rental shops. (Local entrepreneurs, please take note.) However, apartment complexes a little further north, like Fraser Suites and West Lake 254D, offer rentals to guests.

  • Best Area in Hanoi for Markets: Northern Part of the Old Quarter
    The Old Quarter was created as a commercial district. Vendors along some streets sold the same goods (and, often, still do): e.g., Hàng Gai Street for silk and Hàng Bạc Street for silverware. Streets like Hàng Hành (where onions were the main product for sale) and Hàng Đường (for sugar) have now been overrun by boutiques, restaurants, and travel agencies selling tours to Sapa. Locals still like to shop at markets, and one of the most atmospheric and authentic in Asia is the Đồng Xuân Market, about 1km north of Hoàn Kiếm Lake. Built over 130 years ago and almost destroyed by fire in 1994, the three levels are home to over 2000 stalls. Even more are set up on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday evenings as the streets between the market and lake turn into a night market.
  • Best Area in Hanoi for Malls: Inner-Western Hanoi (near the Zoo)
    Catering to the increasing number of high-rise apartment buildings along the northern edge of West Lake (Hồ Tây), several compact malls have opened up nearby, such as Lion Mall. Much larger and brasher is the Lotte Center Hanoi, home to the luxury Lotte hotel as well as the namesake Department Store and glass bottom Hanoi Sky Observation Deck on the 65th floor! Other malls in this inner-western part of the city include Vincom Center Metropolis.
  • Best Area in Hanoi for the Airport: North Along West Lake
    With two terminals for international and domestic flights, the Nội Bài International Airport is inconveniently located about 30km north of Hoàn Kiếm Lake. Despite the fast-flowing expressway north of the river, the journey can still take an hour to hotels within the Old Quarter. Staying in the area north along West Lake (Hồ Tây) will reduce the cost and time of travelling to/from the airport by taxi or private car through the ride-share app Grab (see above) or an online company like Hanoi Transfer Service.
A black and white marble indoor pool with chandeliers and mirrors.

The luxurious indoor pool at Capella in the French Quarter.

The 7 Best Areas in Hanoi for Tourists

1. Around Hoàn Kiếm Lake

An old tower sits in decay in a lake.

Dwarfed by lofty commercial buildings is the abandoned and crumbling Turtle Tower (Tháp Rùa) in Hoàn Kiếm Lake.

Dominating the southern part of the Old Quarter is the picturesque Hoàn Kiếm Lake. This is a glorious place for strolling, sitting, and watching Vietnamese people enjoy life – whether millennials sipping coffee, old folk doing tai chi, or young couples courting. The lake is a welcome respite from the unrestrained chaos along the rest of the Old Quarter and the hub for inner-city transport.

Several people sit by the rivers edge and drink a tea.

Hoàn Kiếm Lake is always popular with locals.

With more fresh air and greenery than the teeming backstreets, Hoàn Kiếm is also a handy landmark. Almost all accommodations are budget-priced guesthouses and mid-range boutique hotels. Only a handful of hotels face the lake and offer views, and no hotels cater primarily to families.

Motorcycles line a charming street.

The quiet Ấu Triệu street near St. Joseph’s Cathedral.

A man on a rickshaw rides in front of St. Joseph’s Cathedral.

St. Joseph’s Cathedral.

And note: within this area, there are quiet laneways (yes, really!) with accommodations, e.g., around St. Joseph’s Cathedral and along Hàng Hành/Báo Khánh Street.

A crystal chandelier hangs above velvet loveseats and a sculpture fountain.

The ornate lobby at the Apricot Hotel.

Black and white striped lounge chairs sit next to a pool overlooking the city from the roof.

Views from the roof-top pool at The Oriental Jade.

2. Northern Part of the Old Quarter

Bright lit yellow flowers sit with cobalt blue painted ceramics for sale in a shop.

A shop on Hàng Quạt Street.

The northern section of the Old Quarter is more authentic and less expensive than around Hoàn Kiếm Lake but is still part of the crowded, noisy, and chaotic inner city. Be careful when choosing accommodations: what may initially appear as a simple 10-minute walk from a hotel to Hoàn Kiếm Lake may be far less enjoyable because of the frenzied traffic, convoluted street layout, confusing street names, and almost complete lack of sidewalks. Most hotels are compact, low-level, and squeezed along congested streets and alleyways. The area has more luxurious multi-star hotels than closer to the lake. There are plenty of budget options in the northern part, but there is very little to excite those traveling with children. This area is best for markets, shopping, and organizing a tour or outdoor activity outside the city.

A view of street from a second story balcony at a hotel.

Our view from the balcony at the L’Heritage hotel with space for seating.

  • The Best Hotels in the Northern Part of the Old Quarter:
    Peridot Grand Hotel phone: +84 24 3828 0099
    La Sinfonia Majesty Hotel phone: +84 24 3715 2345
    La Mejor Hotel phone: +84 24 3364 8888
    Tirant Hotel phone: +84 24 6269 8899
    Babylon Hotel phone: +84 24 3987 5678
  • Best Boutique Hotels:
    La Siesta Hotel phone: +84 24 3926 3641
    L’Heritage Hotel phone: +84 24 6299 5666
    The West Hotel phone: +84 24 5678 8666
  • Best Hotel for Couples:
    Serene Hotel phone: +84 24 3923 4278
  • Best Family Hotels:
    Golden Sun Hotel phone: +884 989 633 758
    Tirant Hotel phone: +84 24 6269 8899
    Rex Hotel phone: +84 24 3556 5588
    Flora Hotel phone: +84 334 529 156
    Holiday Diamond Hotel phone: +84 24 3929 0646
  • Best Cheap/Midrange Hotels:
    Golden Sun Hotel phone: +884 989 633 758
    Golden Moon Hotel phone: +84 24 3266 9828
    Eliana Ruby Hotel phone: +84 329 677 739
    De La Soie Hotel phone: +84 24 3205 2186
  • Best New Hotel:
    Media Central Hotel phone: +84 918 576 969

3. South of the Old Quarter

Women sit outside shops in Vietnam to sell products.

Shops along the streets south of the Old Quarter.

This very appealing area is surrounded by and within walking distance of major attractions and all that the Old Quarter has to offer to the north, the pleasingly convenient and surprisingly unobtrusive central train station to the west, to the south, Thiền Quang Lake, popular with locals, and the supremely elegant French Quarter immediately to the east.

A small food stall sells pho.

Among the high-rise apartment buildings and five-star hotels are the usual stalls selling phở noodle dishes and bánh mì baguettes.

A yellow painted wall is the entrance to a restaurant.

A restaurant south of the Old Quarter.

South of the Old Quarter is home to low-key Asian embassies, cultural centers, and a pleasant mix of elegant cafes alongside phở noodle stalls with tiny plastic chairs. Ideal for walking, the streets are wide, so the traffic flows, pedestrians can actually use sidewalks, and foreigners are a rare sight.

Accommodations are an assortment of towering 5-star hotels, adorable boutique-style guesthouses, and self-contained apartments for families and those staying for a while. It is a perfect area for anyone visiting Hanoi for the first time.

A tall blue and red glassed hotel.

Towering above the leafy, wide streets south of the Old Quarter is the magnificent Meliá hotel.

Yellow cushioned lounge chairs surround a aqua blue rectangular pool.

The relaxing pool and lounge chairs at the Hilton.

  • The Best Hotels South of the Old Quarter:
    Mövenpick Hotel phone: +84 24 3822 2800
    Meliá Hotel phone: +84 24 3934 3343
    Hôtel du Parc Hotel phone: +84 24 3822 3535
    Halais Hotel phone: +84 24 3371 1111
    Hilton Hotel phone: +84 24 3944 9396
  • Best Boutique Hotels:
    De Syloia Hotel phone: +84 24 3824 5346
    HanoiOi Hotel phone: +84 24 3398 9989
    Zéphyr Hotel phone: +84 24 3934 1256
  • Best Family Hotels:
    Somerset Grand Hotel phone: +84 24 3934 2342
    Meliá Hotel phone: +84 24 3934 3343
    Adonis Hotel phone: +84 865 853 855
    Mercure Hanoi La Gare Hotel phone: +84 24 3944 7766
  • Best Cheap/Midrange Hotels:
    Adonis Hotel phone: +84 865 853 855
    Aria Central Hotel phone: +84 979 889 940
    My Linh Hotel phone: +84 24 3943 9579

4. French Quarter

A yellow and cream trimmed building with columns and a domed roof.

The Hanoi Opera House is a major tourist attraction but only open during performances (mostly in the evenings).

From the southeast edge of Hoàn Kiếm Lake and past Hanoi’s first McDonald’s outlet (only opened in 2017), streets become wide and sidewalks usable for pedestrians. The contrast to the ancient Old Quarter is sudden and intense: stalls become malls, and international-brand stores sell handbags probably costing a year’s wage for a rickshaw driver.

A bar draped in red velvet and gold.

Diva’s Lounge cocktail bar at Capella serves Vietnamese-inspired tapas and signature drinks.

Most places to eat are stylish, trendy, and patronized by upper-class Vietnamese, and the nightlife can even get a little rowdy at times. Three of the classiest hotels in Vietnam are located here, and each has a name and/or theme based on the majestic Hanoi Opera House, which dominates this area. Otherwise, the choice of accommodations is limited, but the area is absolutely worth exploring if staying elsewhere.

A family swims in a blue pool surrounded by a white building with lush green trees.

The beautiful pool at Metropole.

5. South along West Lake

Outdoor chairs and yellow tables sit next to a green patch and the lake.

This area along West Lake offer greenery and fresh air with superior views.

Most high-rise hotels are scattered along West Lake (Hồ Tây), about a 10-minute trip by taxi car or, quicker, motorbike taxi from the Old Quarter. Hanoi’s largest lake is stagnant and a little polluted, but the area does offer the sort of space, greenery, and views not possible anywhere in the Old Quarter.

Stylish cafés compete for space with phở noodle stalls, and paths circling the lake are perfect for strolling and cycling, so it’s an excellent option for those on a romantic holiday. Most accommodations are high-end hotels and apartments popular with families and long-term visitors. There are a few boutique hotels, but very few in the moderate range.

A white hotel with red railings sits above a green lake.

Part of the InterContinental hotel sits over the water and the Sunset Bar offers great views.

6. North along West Lake

A fruit seller sits by a bicycle loaded with fruit baskets.

A fruit-seller sits patiently along the main road.

Further north along the edge of West Lake (Hồ Tây) – and past luxury hotels like the Sheraton and InterContinental – are a collection of very lofty buildings packed with suites and apartments for business people and others staying a few weeks or longer. With plenty of space, gardens to run around, and accommodations with kitchen facilities, these apartments are also popular for those traveling with children. There are very few budget options and almost no boutique hotels. Although it’s possible to find some peace and quiet, this area has dramatically transformed in recent years as compact malls have opened up, and the main road is lined with internationally-known coffee shops, brand-name boutiques, and fast-food outlets. It’s also the best area for the airport.

A rooftop pool has a glass railing to view the city though.

The pool on the 13th floor of the Fraser Suites provides remarkable views.

7. Inner-Western Hanoi

A few people sit outside a coffee shop next to a lake.

One attraction of staying in or, at least, hanging about the Golden Lake area is the almost complete lack of tourists.

Ignored by most travelers, the inner-western part of Hanoi is less than 5km from the edge of the Old Quarter. This area is brash, noisy, and modern but interesting in its own way. Great accommodations can be found in two different sections: (1) near the hectic junction dominated by the Lotte Center building and only a 10-minute walk from Hanoi Zoo (which is worth visiting); and (2) around the diminutive but endearing Golden Lake (Giảng Võ). Surrounded by laidback cafes where menus are in English and tourists are rare (but always welcome). This lake is a fascinating slice of middle-class life. Most hotels in both areas are in the high-end category and designed for business people.

A bright blue pool sits next to a landscaped edge.

The fabulous sparkling outdoor pool at the Daewoo hotel.

  • The Best Hotels in Inner-Western Hanoi:
    Lotte Hotel phone: +84 24 3333 1000
    Dolce Hotel phone: +84 24 3365 9999
    Hanoi Hotel Hotel phone: +84 24 3845 2270
    Daewoo Hotel phone: +84 24 3831 5000
  • Best Boutique Hotel:
    Grand Vista Hotel phone: +84 24 3728 2999
  • Best Family Hotels:
    Lotte Hotel phone: +84 24 3333 1000
    Dolce Hotel phone: +84 24 3365 9999
    Rose Garden Residences Hotel phone: +84 24 3831 8888
    Hanoi Hotel Hotel phone: +84 24 3845 2270
    Daewoo Hotel phone: +84 24 3831 5000
  • Best Cheap/Midrange Hotels:
    Danly Hotel phone: +84 24 6273 0564
    Momizi Hotel phone: +84 904 009 193
    NYT Home Giang Vo Hotel phone: +84 913 322 758

About Santorini Dave

Santorini Dave I'm Santorini Dave. I started this site in 2011 with a short article on tips for visiting Santorini with kids. We're now a small team of writers and researchers dedicated to providing the best travel content on the internet. We focus on Santorini, Mykonos, Athens, and Greece, offering recommendations for top hotels, neighborhoods, and family-friendly hotels worldwide. I can be contacted at dave@santorinidave.com.