A Complete Backpacker Guide in Hanoi, Vietnam

For every wanderlust-fueled backpacker, Hanoi is a city that effortlessly blends culture, chaos, and charm. With its winding streets, epic food, and buzzing energy, it’s a must-visit stop in Southeast Asia. From budget-friendly stays to hidden gems, here’s your ultimate guide to conquering Hanoi like a pro.

Contents

How to Get to Hanoi: Your Arrival Guide

Flying into Hanoi is the easiest way to start your adventure.

Hanoi is served by Noi Bai International Airport, located about 45 km from the city center. Here are the best ways to get downtown:

Airport Shuttle Bus: Costs 40,000 VND (~$1.50). A budget-friendly option that takes around 40-60 minutes.
City Bus: The cheapest choice at 10,000 VND (~$0.50), but takes over an hour and can be crowded.
Grab or Taxi: Convenient but pricier, costing around 350,000 VND (~$15).

Pre-Preparation: Visa and Travel Essentials

Get your paperwork sorted before you land.

Visa Requirements: Before traveling, make sure to check if your country qualifies for a visa exemption or apply online for an e-Visa (valid for 30 days).
Currency: Vietnam uses the Vietnamese Dong (VND). Cash is still king so keep small denominations handy for street food and market purchases.
Language: Basic English is widely understood, but learning a few Vietnamese phrases like “Xin chào” (hello) and “Cảm ơn” (thank you) goes a long way and the locals will surely appreciate it.

Pro Tip: Bring a universal adapter for your electronics, as Vietnam uses 220V outlets with two-pronged plugs.

Best Time to Visit Hanoi

Timing your trip right makes all the difference.

The best times to visit Hanoi are:

September to November: Cool, dry weather perfect for exploring.
February to April: Mild and breezy with blooming flowers.

If you don’t enjoy intense heat and humidity, better avoid the summer months (May-August).

Plan your trip to Hanoi during its best seasons, phot courtesy of Lê Minh

Best Places to Stay in Hanoi: A Backpacker’s Guide

Hanoi offers a wide range of accommodations from social hostels to high-end hotels. Find a spot that fits your vibe and budget. If you’re looking for a hostel with comfy rooms, epic tours & events, and a great atmosphere for meeting fellow travelers, Mad Monkey Hanoi is a standout. Want a modern, clean spot with great views of the Old Quarter, check out the Old Quarter View Hostel. And if you’re willing to splurge a bit more, book your stay in Hanoi La Siesta Hotel located in the French Quarter, for a more comfortable and fancy experience. Check out this list of the best hostels for backpackers. Want more? Here’s a curated list of the top places to stay in Hanoi.

Stay where the vibe matches the adventure, photo courtesy of Mad Monkey

Navigating Hanoi: Getting Around

Hanoi’s chaos is part of its charm—here’s how to get from A to B. Walking is the best way for exploring the Old Quarter and nearby attractions. If you want to navigate this city on wheels, motorbike rentals are available. Just be prepared for chaotic traffic. To make your trip even more interesting, why not join a guided motorbike/Jeep tour? You’ve got plenty of options in getting around Hanoi, choose one that fits your style.

Pro Tip: Step into the road confidently and walk at a steady pace. Motorbikes will weave around you—trust the flow.

Glide through Hanoi’s charm with a classic cyclo ride, photo courtesy of Canva

Top Things to Do in Hanoi: Must-See Attractions

You will never run out of history and culture to soak up in Hanoi. There is always something exciting or a place to spark your curiosity. Old Quarter is where all the action is, filled with narrow streets, markets, and local shops. If you want to spend time strolling, Hoan Kiem Lake is a peaceful spot in the heart of the city. For history enthusiasts, Temple of Literature, Vietnam’s first university, might pique your interest. Check out this article for a detailed guide to Hanoi’s top things to do that you surely won’t want to miss. Fancy joining some tours? Take a look at this article on the best tours in Hanoi.

Unwind by the tranquil waters of Hoan Kiem Lake, photo courtesy of Thuong D

Where to Eat in Hanoi: Food Guide for Backpackers

Food? A trip wouldn’t be complete without the local eats. Luckily, Hanoi is a food paradise. You can’t visit without trying Pho, the iconic noodle soup with beef or chicken. Don’t forget to enjoy some Banh Mi too, a baguette sandwich loaded with savory fillings. Wondering where to eat in Hanoi? This article on the must-try restaurants has got you covered.

Savor the authentic flavors of Vietnam, photo courtesy of Canva

Best Cafes in Hanoi: Coffee Culture at Its Best

If you feel tired exploring all day, take a break and soak up Hanoi’s famous coffee culture. Egg Coffee? It’s all over the internet—you’ve got to give it a sip. Visit the home of the original egg coffee, Cafe Giang. If you’re looking for a unique spot, The Note Coffee is a charming cafe covered in handwritten notes from visitors. Want to unwind with a book and a brew, Tranquil Books & Coffee is perfect for you. Check out this handy guide to the best cafes in Hanoi.

Taste history in every sip at Cafe Giang, photo courtesy of Cafe Giang

Hanoi Nightlife: Where to Party

The party scene in Hanoi is lively but winds down early due to a midnight curfew. No matter how you want to party and enjoy the night, there’s a perfect spot waiting for you. Mad Monkey Hanoi features a rooftop bar with epic events and a friendly atmosphere. For those looking to party harder, Hero Club is known for EDM nights and lively crowds. Prefer a chill vibe? Head to Ta Hien Street (Beer Street) for $1 bia hoi (fresh beer). Here’s a list of the best nightlife spots in Hanoi.

Sip, socialize, and soak in the energy at Mad Monkey Hanoi, photo courtesy of Mad Monkey

Day Trips from Hanoi

Hanoi is already packed with awesome things to do and interesting places to visit but if you’ve got more time to spare, exploring beyond the city is always a good idea. Top picks include Ha Long Bay, a stunning seascape of limestone islands, and Ninh Binh, known as “Ha Long Bay on land,” featuring boat rides through rice paddies and caves. Looking for a thrill? Make sure to include Ha Giang Loop in your bucket list!

Hop on a day trip from Hanoi to Ninh Binh and enjoy breathtaking views, phot courtesy of Son Tung Tran

Backpacker Tips for Hanoi

Navigate Hanoi like a seasoned traveler with these tips.

Bargain Wisely: Smile and haggle at markets, but don’t overdo it.
Stay Alert: Keep valuables secure, especially in crowded areas.
Pack Light: Hanoi’s streets aren’t suitcase-friendly.
Respect Local Customs: Dress modestly and be polite at temples.
Keep Small Bills: Many street vendors can’t break large notes.

Get Ready For An Unforgettable Hanoi Experience

Hanoi is a city that perfectly blends chaos and charm. From its history and food to its vibrant nightlife, there’s something for every traveler. Pack your bags, stay curious, and dive into everything this incredible city has to offer.