When I had travelled Vietnam for the first time, I was not able to include the capital Hanoi in my itinerary. But this time, I made sure to spend a couple of nights here, do some sightseeing and make some meaningful connections. And what can I say? I am amazed by Hanoi’s rich history and culture, its friendly people, and not to forget a lot of culinary highlights!
Flight from Manila to Hanoi
This time, I was not making the trip from Europe but from the Philippines. Upon check-in, I was told to use my Filipino passport to enter Vietnam, and not my German passport. I learned that I would get a visa on arrival in Vietnam which was pretty practical. The last time I entered Vietnam (via Ho Chi Minh City), I still needed to apply for an e-visa, before I entered the country.
The journey went smooth, and after collecting my check-in-luggage, I was picked up by my driver who had a sign with my name. Thanks to Trang (Jessica), our travel partner, again for organizing everything so well!
French Quarter & Old Quarter
I have spent two nights in Hanoi, one of them at the Grand Cititel in the French Quarter of Hanoi, and one at the Ha Noi Pearl Hotel in the Old Quarter. Both hotels are great choices, and the some of the famous spots are just a few minutes walk away.
The Old Quarter in Hanoi is a bustling, vibrant hub that encapsulates the city’s rich history, culture, and charm. Known for its maze of 36 streets, each traditionally dedicated to a specific craft or trade, the area is a sensory delight with its mix of colonial architecture, ancient temples, and street vendors.
The lively atmosphere is complemented by motorbikes weaving through narrow alleys, the aroma of Vietnamese coffee, and the clinking of chopsticks in family-run eateries. A visit to the Old Quarter offers an authentic glimpse into Hanoi’s soul, where tradition and modernity coexist harmoniously.
Hanoi’s French Quarter exudes an air of elegance and sophistication, characterized by wide boulevards, tree-lined streets, and grand colonial architecture. Developed during the French colonial era, the area is home to iconic landmarks like the Hanoi Opera House, the Presidential Palace, and the Sofitel Legend Metropole Hotel. The French Quarter offers a stark contrast to the bustling Old Quarter, with its refined atmosphere, luxury boutiques, and high-end restaurants. Visitors can stroll through this district to appreciate its historic charm and enjoy a more tranquil side of Hanoi, rich in cultural and architectural heritage.
My top 5 spots in Hanoi
After my 3 days / 2 nights visit, my 5 spots that I would like to highlight, are the following:
- the Quan An Ngon restaurant with a lot of authentic food choices
- the Hồ Hoàn Kiếm lake, where you can run for a good mile (I love running)
- the lounge of Ha Noi Pearl Hotel where the waiter served me some of the best cocktails I have ever had; try the “Hanoi Sunrise”!
- the Hoàng Thành Thăng Long citadel with its rich history
- the Temple of Literature (I love books).
