Where to Stay in Hanoi, Vietnam: 8 Best Areas & Hotels

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Planning a trip to Hanoi? You’re in the right place!

Vietnam’s vibrant capital boasts thriving street culture, tons of history, and charm in spades. Sure, it can be a little chaotic (or a lot chaotic sometimes, if we’re honest), but it’s also endlessly fascinating. And one of the things we love the most about it is that each neighborhood offers a completely different vibe, from the lively Old Quarter to the peaceful shores of West Lake.

So if you’re trying to figure out where to stay, then look no further. In this guide, we’re going to break down the best areas to stay in Hanoi, plus hotel recommendations for every budget. Let’s dive in!

Overview of the Best Areas to Stay in Hanoi

The first thing to know about Hanoi is that it’s a city full of fascinating neighborhoods—from the Old Quarter to the cute village of Truc Bach. With so many options, it can be hard to decide which one to stay in, so we’re here to break it all down for you.

The city is full of energy and can feel a little overwhelming at first, but getting around is all part of the adventure. Most visitors rely on Grab for quick, safe, and affordable rides. Motorbikes are fast and provide a thrill, but you can hail a car if you’re nervous, traveling in a group, or it’s raining. Hanoi also has a growing metro system, which is super cheap and pretty punctual!

Meanwhile, you can explore Hanoi’s Old Quarter and nearby areas on foot. In fact, walking around is the best way to get to know the tourist center, but you’ll need Grab and the MRT for longer distances. They make it easy to get between Hanoi’s best areas, which are as follows:

• Old Quarter (Hoàn Kiếm) – Hanoi’s historic core is where you’ll spend most of your time as a first-time visitor, so it makes sense to stay here. Hotel Emerald Waters Classy is right in the heart of it all and just a 4-minute walk from Beer Street!

• French Quarter – This area boasts leafy boulevards, French colonial buildings, and staying here puts you close to the Opera House and top museums. GRAND CITITEL Hanoi Hotel & Spa offers great value for money in this elegant area.

• Ba Đình District – This area is packed with cultural sites, including the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and the Presidential Palace, so it’s a great choice for those interested in Vietnam’s Communist history. Hanoi Hotel offers a sleek stay with great views of Giang Vo Lake.

• Tây Hồ (West Lake) – This is Hanoi’s expat hub, so you’ll find lots of international restaurants and lakeside cafes here, as well as a more relaxed vibe compared to the rest of the city. It’s peaceful and scenic, though a little further from the Old Quarter. L7 WEST LAKE offers 5-star comfort at a surprisingly reasonable price.

• Hai Bà Trưng District – This is a modern, youthful area with lots of shopping malls, nightlife, and local eateries. The Lapis Hotel offers a stylish boutique stay that won’t break the bank.

• Trúc Bạch – This cute, village-like neighborhood tucked between the Old Quarter and West Lake is known for its food streets and boutique hotels. The Flower Boutique Hotel & Travel offers an elegant stay at a great price.

• Dong Da District – This is a busy, authentic area home to multiple universities, offering lots of budget-friendly cafes and dining options, as well as several temples. Sao Mai Boutique Hotel is a clean and quiet hotel in an excellent location.

• Cầu Giấy – A newer, suburban district west of the center that we think is great for families, thanks to its malls and parks. InterContinental Hanoi Landmark72 is the standout stay around here!

Where to Stay in Hanoi

Old Quarter (Hoàn Kiếm)

The Old Quarter is Hanoi’s most famous neighborhood and the best place to stay if it’s your first time here. This is the historic heart of the city, and it’s also very walkable. As you stroll around, you’ll find shopping streets dedicated to specialized goods, such as shoes, toys, and silk, as well as tons of street food stalls and fun bars. This is also close to where you’ll find the famous “Train Street”.

And not only is this area super vibrant and charming, it’s home to many of the city’s top attractions. You’ve got St. Joseph’s Cathedral, Ngoc Son Temple, and traditional water puppet shows on offer. We think the Hoa Lo Prison – sarcastically dubbed the “Hanoi Hilton” – is a must-visit in this area for anyone interested in the history of the Vietnam War. And when you’ve finished exploring for the day, pulling up a plastic stool on pub street and drinking some bia hou is an absolute must.

Staying in the Old Quarter also means you’ll have Hoàn Kiếm Lake right on your doorstep. Not only is it scenic, but its shores are always bustling and filled with snack vendors and lots of local life. All in all, this is the neighborhood for travelers who want to dive straight into Hanoi’s energy and don’t mind a little noise along the way (okay – a lot of noise).

Pros

• Central location within walking distance of top attractions
• Packed with restaurants, cafés, and street food

Cons

• Busy and noisy, especially at night
• Hotels are often smaller and more compact

MAY DE VILLE Lakeside Hotel – $$$

MAY DE VILLE Lakeside Hotel is the best option for travelers who want extra comfort in the heart of the Old Quarter. The rooms are spacious and modern with huge windows, some even offering views of Hoàn Kiếm Lake! One of the best features here is the rooftop pool and bar, so you can swim with pinch-me views of the city below.

The hotel is super stylish throughout, and the service is attentive and friendly. Although it’s a pricier choice, a 5-star breakfast is included with your stay, and you get early check-in and late check-out for extra convenience.

Prices usually range between $95 and $800 USD per night, depending on the room type, season, and duration of your stay.

Check availability and book your stay here!

Hotel Emerald Waters Classy – $$

Hotel Emerald Waters Classy is one of the top-rated hotels in the Old Quarter, and we think it delivers fantastic value for money. The rooms are sleek and comfortable, with modern furnishings and everything you need for a hassle-free stay! The staff here are so welcoming, and the location is ideal because you’re just a short walk from Hoàn Kiếm Lake, the weekend night market, Pub Street, and plenty of street food stalls and cafés. 

The hotel also has its own restaurant and bar if you feel like staying in, plus a lovely spa where you can treat yourself to a relaxing massage in between city adventures. Overall, we think this hotel offers a fantastic balance of value, comfort, and convenience for exploring Hanoi.

Prices here usually fall between $60 and $350 USD per night, with connecting and family rooms available.

See all the options and book your stay here!

The West Hotel & Spa – $

If you’re on a budget but still want comfort, The West Hotel & Spa is a great choice. The rooms have a cozy traditional feel with crisp linens and clean bathrooms. There’s a small spa on-site where you can book a massage, which is just perfect after a day of sightseeing in the Old Quarter.

A fantastic breakfast buffet is included with your stay, so you can wake up to strong Vietnamese coffee, cooked options, and fresh fruit each morning. The location is excellent, right in the middle of the neighborhood, so you can easily walk to Hoàn Kiếm Lake and Train Street. This comfortable hotel offers great value for money so we think it’s perfect for budget-conscious travelers who still want to be right in the action.

Rooms typically cost between $30 and $135 USD per night.

Check availability and book your stay here!

French Quarter

The French Quarter is Hanoi’s most elegant neighborhood. It offers a complete contrast to the bustling Old Quarter next door, even though they’re just a short walk apart. 

With its wide, leafy boulevards and grand colonial buildings, the French Quarter has a calm feel to it – well, by Hanoian standards, anyway! This is where you’ll find many of the city’s cultural landmarks, including the Hanoi Opera House, the National Museum of Vietnamese History, and the Presidential Palace. Best of all, they’re all close together, so it’s easy to explore on foot.

We love that the French Quarter has a polished, European feel while still being unmistakably Vietnamese. You’ll find designer boutiques, upscale restaurants, and some of the city’s most famous hotels here, many of which have been around for more than a century. I’m super interested in Vietnam’s colonial past, so I love exploring this area.

The French Quarter is also a great pick for luxury travelers. You’ll still be close to all the main attractions and within walking distance of the Old Quarter, but you get to come back to a place that feels a bit more relaxed and spacious.

Pros

• Central location with top cultural landmarks nearby
• Elegant vibe with luxury hotels and restaurants

Cons

• Higher prices compared to other districts
• Less nightlife than the Old Quarter

Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi – $$$

Sofitel Legend Metropole is one of the most iconic hotels in all of Vietnam. Open since 1901, this French colonial landmark has hosted celebrities, politicians, and royalty for over a century. The rooms are spacious and beautifully designed, blending timeless elegance with modern comfort. Walking through its historic corridors feels like stepping back in time!

One of the highlights is the stunning courtyard pool, surrounded by lush gardens, as well as the hotel’s award-winning restaurants and bars. You’ll be right next to the Opera House and within walking distance of Hanoi’s main attractions, making the location unbeatable. If you want to experience Hanoi at its most glamorous, the Metropole is truly in a class of its own.

Prices usually range between $300 and $1,000 USD per night, although the most luxurious suites go up to $2,500+ USD.

Check availability and book your stay here!

GRAND CITITEL Hanoi Hotel & Spa – $$

GRAND CITITEL Hanoi Hotel & Spa is a more modest yet still stylish option in the French Quarter. It’s a 4-star hotel, so it offers a really comfortable stay, and we think that it delivers excellent value for money. The rooms are modern, well-furnished, and surprisingly spacious, with comfortable beds and contemporary décor.

The hotel also features a spa, restaurant, and rooftop bar, giving you plenty of ways to relax after a day of sightseeing. Its location is ideal, putting you close to the Opera House, museums, and several top cafés and restaurants. For travelers who want to enjoy the elegance of the French Quarter without breaking the bank, we think that this hotel is a fantastic choice.

Prices typically range between $70 and $500 USD per night.

See all the options and reserve your stay here!

Hanoi Elpis Hotel & Spa – $

Hanoi Elpis Hotel & Spa is a great option if you’re traveling on a budget but still want to enjoy the French Quarter’s famous charm. The rooms are compact yet comfortable, with clean, modern décor and all the essentials you’ll need for a city break. We love the colonial-style decor, which feels very chic despite the affordable price tag.

The hotel offers a small spa for massages and treatments, as well as a complimentary service to start your day. Best of all, you’ll be within walking distance of the Opera House and plenty of local restaurants and shops. For affordable comfort in Hanoi’s most elegant district, Elpis Hotel is our top pick!

Rooms usually cost between $30 and $300 USD per night.

Check availability and book your stay here!

Ba Đình District

Ba Đình is Hanoi’s political and historical center. It’s home to some of the city’s most important landmarks, including the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, the Presidential Palace, and the One Pillar Pagoda. If you can’t wait to learn about Vietnamese history and culture, this tree-lined district is the place to be! 

Another perk of staying in this area is that it has a bit of a calmer feel than the Old Quarter. It’s less of a sensory overload, for sure! However, it’s still just a 15-minute Grab ride to the main tourist hub, so you’re not far removed from all of the action. 

The area also has some excellent museums, including the Ho Chi Minh Museum and the Fine Arts Museum, so it’s a great base for culture lovers. The pretty Temple of Literature is worth checking out, too, as we learned a lot about Confucianism when we visited. The Military History Museum is another interesting stop for those interested in the Vietnam War. 

Ba Đình is a great pick for travelers who prefer a quieter stay while still being close to Hanoi’s highlights. There’s a more relaxed pace, and you’ll be right at the center of Vietnam’s fascinating political story.

Pros

• Home to major landmarks and museums
• Quieter and more spacious than the Old Quarter

Cons

• Not as many nightlife options
• Slightly farther from the main tourist hub

Lotte Hotel Hanoi – $$$

Lotte Hotel Hanoi is a luxury high-rise hotel with some of the best views in the city. The rooms are modern, spacious, and elegantly decorated, with floor-to-ceiling windows that showcase the Hanoi skyline. It’s a pretty epic thing to wake up to!

Meanwhile, the facilities here are outstanding, with multiple restaurants, an infinity pool, and even a sky bar on the 65th floor. It’s Hanoi’s ultimate destination for sunset drinks! And the hotel’s location inside the Lotte Center Hanoi means you get direct access to a high-end shopping mall, supermarket, and plenty of dining options. If you’re after a sleek, modern stay with world-class amenities and panoramic views, Lotte Hotel is hard to top.

Prices usually range between $135 and $900 USD per night.

Check availability and book your stay here!

Hanoi Hotel – $$

Hanoi Hotel is a comfortable mid-range option overlooking Giang Vo Lake. It offers spacious rooms in a peaceful setting while still being well-connected to the city’s main attractions. The rooms offer a classic, understated design, while there’s a spa, gym, and casino on site, so you truly have everything you need!

There are multiple dining options on-site, including Chinese and Japanese restaurants. We think that this place strikes a nice balance between convenience and comfort, without the high price tag of some of the district’s luxury hotels. For travelers who want a solid, reliable stay in Ba Đình, Hanoi Hotel is a great fit.

Rooms here typically cost between $60 and $225 USD per night.

See all the options and reserve your stay here!

FTE Ba Đình Hotel – $

FTE Ba Dinh Hotel is a super stylish hotel with a surprisingly low price tag. The rooms are chic and modern, with a few colonial decor touches and elegant bathrooms. There’s a small rooftop pool and a nice on-site restaurant, as well as a spa, bar, and fitness center. 

Overall, we think that this boutique property is an absolute steal! It also offers flexible cancellation options, and you can pay on arrival at the property, which allows you to stay flexible.

Prices generally range between $70 and $175 USD per night.

Find the best rates and book your stay here!

Tây Hồ (West Lake)

Tây Hồ, also known as West Lake, is one of Hanoi’s most scenic and laid-back neighborhoods. It’s centered around the city’s largest freshwater lake, and it has a relaxed vibe that feels worlds away from the chaos of the Old Quarter. The area is very popular with expats, so there’s a more international vibe here. You’ll find cuisines from all over the world, lots of trendy, modern cafes, and a wealth of stylish cocktail bars. 

But it’s not as though local culture has been completely erased from the area. There are still traditional pagodas to explore and local markets to shop at. In fact, one of the highlights of Tây Hồ is Tran Quoc Pagoda, the oldest Buddhist temple in Hanoi, which sits on a small island in the lake. 

One of our favorite ways to spend time in Tây Hồ is to cycle or walk along the lakeside, especially at sunset! Although this neighborhood is a little further out from Hanoi’s main historical sights, the space and greenery make it ideal for families or anyone who prefers a slower pace. We think it’s a good choice for longer stays, too. You’re only a 15-20 minute Grab ride from the Old Quarter, so it’s easy to dip in and out of the main tourist action whenever you want! 

Pros

• Relaxed lakeside setting with beautiful views
• Great dining, cafés, and international options
  

Cons

• Farther from Hanoi’s main tourist attractions
• More of an expat feel than traditional Hanoi atmosphere

InterContinental Hanoi Westlake by IHG – $$$

InterContinental Hanoi Westlake is a luxury hotel set directly on the lake. Its overwater pavilions connected by walkways remind me of those resorts that you see in Bora Bora or the Maldives! So if you’re looking for a plush, peaceful escape, you’ll fall in love with this expansive property.

The rooms boast elegant, French-colonial style decor, and we love the huge outdoor pool overlooking the water. There are several restaurants and bars on-site, including a rooftop spot where you can enjoy cocktails at sunset. You can also enjoy yoga and pilates classes at the fitness center. All in all, this is a really romantic choice for couples and a great pick for families who want a tranquil base.

Prices usually range between $200 and $375 USD per night.

Check availability and book your stay here!

L7 WEST LAKE HANOI By LOTTE – $$

L7 WEST LAKE HANOI By LOTTE is a chic lakeside hotel that brings a fresh, modern energy to Tây Hồ. The rooms are stylish and many boast floor-to-ceiling windows that look out over the water. There’s a rooftop infinity pool that’s just made for sunset swims, plus a vibrant bar scene that feels very “New Hanoi.”

Its location right on the lake makes it perfect if you want those iconic West Lake views, while still being close to cafés, shops, and restaurants in the neighborhood. We think this is a fantastic mid-range choice for couples or friends who want a trendy stay with resort-style amenities.

Rooms here typically cost between $120 and $325 USD per night.

See all the options and reserve your stay here!

The Hanoi Club Hotel & Residences – $

The Hanoi Club Hotel & Residences is a budget-friendly stay that still offers a great lakeside location. It’s bright, modern, and comfortable, and we think it delivers true vacation vibes on a modest budget. The property is actually a hybrid property with both hotel rooms and serviced apartments, making it a good pick for longer stays.

There’s also an outdoor pool, a gym, a sauna, a steamroom, and tennis courts, which is more than you’d expect at this price point! The on-site restaurant serves both Vietnamese and international dishes, and the staff are known for being warm and helpful. If you’re looking for an affordable and scenic stay right on West Lake, this hotel is the clear choice.

Rooms generally cost between $110 and $210 USD per night.

Check out the raving reviews and book your stay here!

Related Read: Need help planning your trip? See our 3-day Hanoi itinerary to discover the top city sights, restaurants, and our personal recommendations!

Hai Bà Trưng District

Hai Bà Trưng is one of Hanoi’s liveliest and most modern districts. It’s popular with younger people, and we think it’s a great place to stay if you want to experience a mix of city energy and local life. It’s busy, but less intense than the Old Quarter, and you can find street food vendors everywhere you look, as well as lots of cute little cafes. There are lots of shopping malls and local markets here, too, so it’s a great choice if you like to shop. 

It’s also a great spot for nightlife, with rooftop bars, casual beer spots, and late-night eateries that stay open well past midnight. We like coming here when we want a fun night out, but just need a bit of a break from the slightly seedier, more touristy nightlife in the Old Quarter. 

The area is celebrated among locals and expats for its burgeoning restaurant scene. As well as all of the street food, you can find excellent Japanese, Korean, and vegetarian restaurants around. 

While Hai Bà Trưng doesn’t have the historic temples and landmarks of Ba Đình or the charm of the Old Quarter, it’s still close enough to the center that you can get to Hoàn Kiếm Lake or the French Quarter in 15-20 minutes via Grab.

Pros

• Lively neighborhood with lots of shops, cafés, and nightlife
• Great restaurant scene

Cons

• Can feel busy and crowded
• Less historic charm compared to the Old Quarter or Ba Đình

MAY DE VILLE Corner Hotel – $$$

MAY DE VILLE Corner Hotel is a super stylish option right in the heart of Hai Bà Trưng. The rooms are spacious and modern, with stylish décor and comfortable beds that make it easy to unwind after a day exploring the city. We love the rooftop infinity pool – relaxing with a drink here at sunset is a vibe! 

The restaurant here is sleek, and there’s a relaxing spa on site, too. When we stayed here, the staff truly could not have been sweeter to us, and the hotel’s location near lots of markets made it easy to immerse ourselves in Hanoi’s local life.

Prices usually range between $75 and $525 USD per night.

Read the amazing views and book your stay here!

The Lapis Hotel – $$

The Lapis Hotel is a gorgeous boutique hotel that combines modern comfort with old-world glamor. This place feels fit for royalty – even the gym is glamorous! Best of all, staying here won’t completely drain your travel budget!

With beautiful marble bathrooms, an inviting rooftop pool, and a spa that takes relaxation to the next level, this hotel offers a slice of paradise right in the middle of one of Hanoi’s liveliest neighborhoods. It feels like it should cost twice as much as it does, so if you love a bargain, snag your stay here ASAP. 

Rooms typically cost between $65 and $225 USD per night.

Check availability and book your stay here!

Parkside Sunline Hotel – $

Parkside Sunline Hotel delivers a classy stay that won’t break the bank! The rooms are bright and modern with big windows – who doesn’t love waking up to a great view? There’s an on-site restaurant that serves up yummy Vietnamese and international food, and fitness fanatics will be glad of the small but well-equipped gym. 

There’s no pool, but you can catch an epic sunset from the terrace. You’ll also be just a short walk from plenty of markets and cafes, and the Old Quarter and French Quarter are just a short Grab ride away.

Rooms usually range from $55 to $125 USD per night.

Check prices, read reviews, and book your stay here!

Trúc Bạch

Trúc Bạch is a small, charming neighborhood just north of West Lake. We love it because it offers a quieter, more village-like vibe than central Hanoi. In fact, it’s a bit of a hidden gem for travelers who want to be close to the action but away from the busy streets of the Old Quarter! Its narrow lanes conceal a real treasure trove of local food streets, boutique shops, and cozy cafés, so it’s a real pleasure to explore.

One of the highlights of Trúc Bạch is its proximity to West Lake, where you can cycle or stroll along the water for a peaceful escape. It’s also just a 10-minute Grab ride from the Old Quarter, so you get the best of both worlds around here. However, the area has plenty of lesser-known attractions of its own on offer, including Den Thủy Trung Tiên temple, which was dedicated to a prophesying puppy, and the swan pedalos, which you can rent to explore the lake.

There are tons of quirky cafes around Trúc Bạch to enjoy, and finding them is half the fun! We especially recommend visiting State-Run Foodshop Number 37, which seeks to recreate the typical Hanoian restaurants of wartime.

Pros

• Quiet, village-like atmosphere near West Lake
• Great food, streets, and boutique hotels

Cons

• Smaller area with fewer nightlife options
• Slightly further from central tourist spots

Pan Pacific Hanoi – $$$

Pan Pacific Hanoi is a luxury lakeside hotel right on Trúc Bạch and West Lake. The rooms are spacious, modern, and offer stunning views of the lake or city skyline. Many rooms feature large windows, comfortable seating areas, and sleek, contemporary décor that feels elegant and welcoming.

We especially love the outdoor pool overlooking the water and the two top-notch on-site restaurants, which serve a mix of Vietnamese and international cuisine. Its lakeside location makes it peaceful, yet the Old Quarter is only a 10-15 minute ride away – what more could you want?

Prices typically range between $125 and $325 USD per night.

Check availability and book your stay here!

The Flower Boutique Hotel & Travel – $$

The Flower Boutique Hotel & Travel is a stylish mid-range hotel in Trúc Bạch. The blue-and-white décor feels plush and inviting, giving it a boutique feel without the hefty price tag. The rooms feature soft beds and lots of natural light, and you can opt to include a breakfast buffet each morning for just $8 USD, which covers tons of pastries, bacon, eggs, and lots of fresh fruit! 

We think this is a great option for travelers who want a quiet base with a local vibe. The staff are friendly and helpful, offering travel advice and arranging tours or transport around Hanoi. We love that it balances comfort, convenience, and a touch of personality!

Rooms generally range from $50 to $400 USD per night.

See all the options and reserve your stay here!

Wilque Hotel Hanoi – $

We love Wilque Hotel Hanoi because it delivers comfort on a budget. The rooms are clean, modern, and compact, with simple furnishings and all the basics you need for a short stay. Meanwhile, the location is excellent for exploring local food streets, small shops, and the nearby lakeside. Grab rides to the Old Quarter are quick and easy, and the friendly staff are happy to help you with anything you need. 

Rooms typically cost between $35 and $125 USD per night, which includes a complimentary airport taxi – not bad!

Find the best rates and book your stay here.

Dong Da District

Dong Da is a largely residential and local area in Hanoi. We think it’s a fantastic pick if you’ve been to the Vietnamese capital before and are now seeking to experience everyday Hanoi away from the tourist-heavy streets of the Old Quarter. 

The area is home to bustling markets, small cafés, and plenty of street food stalls around every corner. You’ll find several universities here, as well as temples and cultural spots that tourists often miss. It’s certainly not as polished or tourist-focused as the French Quarter or West Lake, but its local charm is precisely what makes it special. You can easily explore local markets, try traditional dishes, or stop at small temples tucked between apartment blocks. 

Grab rides or taxis are helpful for longer trips to the Old Quarter or Hoàn Kiếm Lake, but the area itself is best explored on foot to soak in the authentic Hanoi vibe. I don’t know about you, but we always love staying in a walkable area! Plus, accommodation here tends to be pretty budget-friendly.

Pros

• Authentic, local Hanoi experience
• Close to temples, markets, and universities

Cons

• Less tourist infrastructure
• Can feel busy and crowded during the day

Grand Mercure Hanoi – $$$

Grand Mercure Hanoi is a luxurious hotel in Dong Da. We absolutely love the decor here, because it perfectly encapsulates elegant, Vietnamese charm. From the rich color palette to the warm wood, this place feels inviting and sophisticated. You’ll never want to leave!

The hotel also has a sleek rooftop infinity pool offering gorgeous views over Hanoi, and many of the rooms offer stunning city views, too. It offers a polished base in the heart of one of Hanoi’s most local neighborhoods. With a spa, two restaurants, room service, and a gym, the Grand Mercure serves up luxurious modern comforts while being steps away from dirt-cheap street food and the Temple of Literature.

Prices typically range from $130 to $400 USD per night.

Check availability and book your stay here!

Sao Mai Boutique Hotel – $$

Sao Mai Boutique Hotel is a mid-range hotel in Dong Da with bright, modern rooms that feel cozy and welcoming. We like this place because it has plenty of local character, so it’s ideal for travelers who really want an authentic experience in Hanoi. There are plenty of local cafés and eateries right on your doorstep, and you can walk to the Temple of Literature in just 5 minutes. You can also get to the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum in just 20 minutes on foot.

We think that this hotel is perfect for travelers who want to stay in a quieter, more residential area but still be within reach of Hanoi’s main sights. Rooms usually cost between $50 and $350 USD per night, with family and two-bedroom suites available.

Read the great reviews and reserve your stay here!

Nesta Hotel & Spa – $

We think Nesta Hotel & Spa delivers a lot of bang for your buck. Located in Dong Da, it offers bright, spacious rooms that feel brand spanking new. It’s a sleek and contemporary hotel with super comfy beds, great air con, and a fantastic breakfast buffet.

The spa is lovely, too. The massages here are just heavenly, and they’re very well-priced, too. I actually think this place feels more like a swanky apartment complex than a hotel. It really does prove that in Vietnam, a budget-friendly stay can still feel high-end.

Rooms generally range from $30 to $115 USD per night.

Check prices and book your stay here!

Cầu Giấy

Cầu Giấy is a growing, modern district just west of Hanoi’s city center. It’s much quieter than the Old Quarter or the French Quarter, which makes it ideal for business travelers, families, and anyone who prefers a more suburban vibe. 

The streets are wide and organized, lined with modern apartment complexes, office towers, and large shopping malls, giving the area a polished, contemporary feel. It’s a nice contrast to the bustling, narrow alleys and crowded sidewalks closer to Hoàn Kiếm Lake.

While Cầu Giấy doesn’t have the historic charm of central Hanoi, it’s still a lively neighborhood with plenty of restaurants, cafes, and green spaces where you can unwind. The area is also home to the National Convention Center, major office buildings, and universities, which attract both business travelers and locals. It’s about a 30-minute Grab ride from the Old Quarter, so we think that this area is better suited if you’ve already been to Hanoi before and want to see a different side of the city this time around. 

Pros

• Modern, organized, and quieter than central districts
• Great for families, long-term stays, or business travelers

Cons

• Further from Hanoi’s main historic attractions
• Lacks the traditional street-life atmosphere

InterContinental Hanoi Landmark72 – $$$

InterContinental Hanoi Landmark72 offers a standout stay in one of Hanoi’s tallest skyscrapers. The rooms are modern and comfortable, with plenty of natural light and city skyline views that are particularly stunning at sunset. We love the bathrooms, and some even have big standalone tubs that look out over Hanoi – talk about soaking in style!

Staying here not only means you’ll get to wake up miles above the city, but you’ll also have direct access to the Landmark72’s shops, entertainment options, and restaurants. Rooms usually range between $150 and $300 USD per night.

See all the options and reserve your stay here!

Grand K Hotel Suites Hanoi – $$

Grand K Hotel Suites Hanoi is a luxurious modern hotel in Cầu Giấy. It’s super spacious with sleek décor and floor-to-ceiling windows that showcase city views. The suites come with living areas and well-equipped kitchens, so we think that this is an ideal pick for families and longer stays.

The hotel also features a fitness center, restaurant, and meeting facilities. Its location in the heart of Cầu Giấy means you’ll be close to big malls, dining options, and office complexes, while a short Grab ride takes you straight to Hanoi’s main attractions. For anyone looking for contemporary comfort with convenient access to both work and leisure, we think that Grand K Hotel Suites is a great pick.

Prices generally range from $75 to $300 USD per night, which is a steal for a hotel this nice!

Check availability and book your stay here!

Novotel Suites Hanoi – $

Novotel Suites Hanoi is a budget-friendly choice for travelers who want modern, apartment-style accommodations in Cầu Giấy. The suites include kitchens and living areas, which is ideal if you want to do a lot of self-catering while you’re in Hanoi.

The hotel also offers a small gym and café, and it’s close to malls, restaurants, and public transport. It’s a convenient, quiet option if you’re looking to escape the tourist crowds of central Hanoi while still having easy access to the city. For budget-conscious travelers who want comfort and practicality, we think that Novotel Suites Hanoi is a solid pick.

King studios start at $55 USD per night, while two-bedroom executive apartments generally cost around $185 USD per night.

Don’t miss out – book your stay in advance here!

Top Activities to do in Hanoi, Vietnam

Now that you’ve figured out your preferred area to stay in and the best hotel option, you can start planning your itinerary! There is truly so much to do in Hanoi; it can quickly become overwhelming to try to fit it all in. That’s why we love booking tours, which maximize our sightseeing capabilities and give insight while you’re exploring. Here are a few of our favorite things we did in Hanoi:

• Take a jeep city tour – See Hanoi’s top sights on this open-air army jeep tour! Learning about Vietnam’s history and navigating the hectic traffic with a local guide will make your day seamless, so you can focus on the sights, not getting lost.

• Cruise on Ha Long Bay – If you don’t have time to spend an overnight, this Ha Long Bay day trip is the best way to go! This bay is stunning, and experiencing it on a cruise is simply top-tier. Better yet, this full-day trip makes transport easy, and you don’t have to haggle prices for the cruise!

• Go on a motorbike food tour – We love food tours, but this motorbike food tour in Hanoi takes it to the next level! Zipping through the hectic streets on a motorbike is such a rush, but don’t worry, you won’t be driving. Then stop and eat all sorts of local foods to dive into Vietnamese culture.

• Make Vietnamese coffee – This coffee tour is great for my fellow caffeine addicts. Learn all about Vietnamese coffee from the experts, from its historic roots to how to brew the perfect cup. Then, try it for yourself and enjoy!

• Take a day trip to Ninh Binh – Escape the city on this full-day tour to Ninh Binh. This outdoor tour is a great way to experience the natural side of the region. This area is dotted with limestone cliffs, rice fields, caves, and rivers – stunning!

Related Read: If you’re looking for a few more activities, see our blog on the top things to do in Hanoi here, and add it to your itinerary!

Thanks for reading!

Hanoi might be an overwhelming city, but choosing your hotel doesn’t have to be! These eight areas offer something unique, so you can find your ideal place to stay, no matter your travel style. Be sure to book your hotel in advance, especially if you’re traveling during the peak busy season – we learned this the hard way!

If you need more tips and travel recommendations while planning your trip, check out all of our Vietnam blogs! We’ve got you covered if you’re looking for itineraries, top things to do, our favorite tours, or more where-to-stay guides. Here are a few related blogs in the region, just in case your travels take you further!

Where to Stay in Ho Chi Minh, Vietnam: 6 Areas & Hotels

How to Spend THREE Days in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam: 3-Day Itinerary

How to Spend THREE DAYS in Siem Reap, Cambodia: 3-Day Itinerary