Overview
Take a trip to Hanoi on your Vietnam Vacation
A must-visit is Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam and the country’s second-largest city. Hanoi is situated on the west bank of the Red River, which flows from southwest China through northern Vietnam, to the Gulf of Tonkin.
Located 1760 km (1,090 mi) north of Ho Chi Minh City, Hanoi is also 120 km (75 mi) west of Hai Phong, the third largest and one of the most important port cities in Vietnam.
Although under various dynasties and names throughout its history, Hanoi has held its title as capital for over 1000 years. Occupied by the French in 1873, Hanoi became the capital of French Indochina in 1887 and is home to the first established Western-style universities in Indochina, making it the largest education centre in Vietnam today.
Hanoi’s Old Quarter features the street layout and colonial architecture of old Hanoi. The area is famous for small merchants, silk shops, local eateries and bars, and a weekend night market. In addition, prominent attractions include the Temple of Literature (the site of the oldest university in Vietnam), One Pillar Pagoda, and the Flag Tower of Hanoi, all to be experienced on Vietnam tour packages.
Situated near the Old Quarter is one of Hanoi’s many featured scenic lakes, Hoan Kiem Lake. The largest lake and historic and cultural centre of Hanoi, Hoan Kiem Lake features many temples in the area, small boats for hire, and a floating restaurant.
Ba Dinh Square, a famous square located in Ba Dinh District, is home to the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, the President’s Palace, and other important government buildings.
Situated near the Old Quarter is one of Hanoi’s many featured scenic lakes, Hoan Kiem Lake. The largest lake and historic and cultural centre of Hanoi, Hoan Kiem Lake features many temples in the area, small boats for hire, and a floating restaurant.
Ba Dinh Square, a famous square located in Ba Dinh District, is home to the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, the President’s Palace, and other important government buildings.
At a Glance
Languages
VietnameseCurrency
Vietnamese Dong (VND)What do the experts say?
Vietnam doesn’t need to be paired with another country to fill a trip. From the culture to the coast, you can easily spend two full weeks here and barely scratch the surface
Vietnam has a way of welcoming you in. I’ve been invited into houses and shared meals with strangers, and those moments have shaped my love for the place
Vietnam stretches over 2,000 kilometers so weather can vary dramatically. March and April are ideal for visiting the whole country with moderate temperatures and light rain
Hoi An is a personal favorite, with its ancient architecture, multicultural roots, and unforgettable cuisine
Vietnam isn’t just conical hats and war stories. It’s a land of 54 ethnic groups, layered history, and vibrant culture that surprises even seasoned travelers.
Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum is a very popular stop on...
A busy and congested road in Hanoi
Saint Joseph Cathedral
A hat salesman in the busy Hanoi traffic
A Vietnamese street vendor in Hanoi
A road side peddler sells fresh fruit
Travel Stories
Get Inspired About Your Trip to Vietnam
Unlock more by subscribing to our newsletter.
With our newsletter, you’ll get access to regular communications that inspire you and help you explore the world your way.Exclusive Savings
Insider Benefits
Trending Stories
ExcellentBased on 5,244 ReviewsIsabella Luu made the arrangements for our trip to Scotland and all aspects of the trip and stay were excellent. Our assistance at the airports were very good as all were alerted to our needs. Our ride services were excellent. Isabella was always available to answer any questions that we had in a knowledgable and prompt manner, which is always very important to me.Audrey HenryHad an excellent tour of Australia, thanks to our travel specialist Katie Stephenson. She was patient as we kept modifying our plans. Got support from Goway and Katie when there was a need to rebook a tour midway through, all handled easily by Goway.Ron PrestonWe went on a highly customized comprehensive (though quick tour) of England and a bit of Scotland through Goway. Ingrid Aird did an amazing job of planning and arranging every detail with her deep experience, insight, thoughtfulness and creativity, tuning into the needs of each traveler; and she did so even though our decision to travel was rather spontaneous and last minute! Our family had the best time! We look forward to working with Ingrid and Goway again!Vilja BreilingWe used Goway to put together an itinerary for East Africa , and Zanzibar . Everything was great and went smoothly DawnI can't tell you enough how much I love to work with Callie. She is a life saver and I love how attentive she is. Every time I give her an itinerary for a client- she really knocks it out of the park with the proposal. If there are any issues- she is on it right away. Her work ethic is outstanding.Michelle LabarcaI had the pleasure of working with Amelia on a booking for a family of 4 to Tokyo, Kyoto and Osaka. She executed everything perfectly, was attentive to needs and the family was over the top happy with their vacation. She was quick to answer questions and provide helpful feedback. Highly recommended!Jessie WilliamsWe were trying to navigate Swiss Travel Center to book a 10 day train trip through Switzerland. It was exactly what we wanted but navigating their site was extremely difficult for us. Goway Travel picked up on our plight and put us in contact with Jacqueline Fagooli, one of their agents. From there on everything was so smooth. Their efficiency, communication, and thoroughness were beyond our expectations. The trip was fabulous and kudos to Jacqueline and Goway for their help in making it so.Carolyn McCormackThe destination specialist I've worked with (Kim Rawlings) has provided exceptional service. She is very knowledgeable of her region and everything they have to offer. She is very prompt in her communication and follow-up. She listens and is very attentive to my client's needs and wants. Kim's personality makes one feel like they've known each other for years.
If GoWay had a customer service model, Kim is it.T. Jackson, Tribe Trek TravelWe had a wonderful and amazing two weeks in North-West Scotland. Shoutout to Jacqueline at Goway Toronto and the driver/guides with Rabbie's minibus tours (Stefan and Willie). Well-chosen hotels and no worries with dietary requirements; every detail was taken care of. Thank you!
Ben DaubeKatie was professional, extremely responsive, and very welcoming to work with! We appreciate the recommendations, thoughtful edits, and the expertise. Would definitely recommend Goway travel and working with their team.Parking.com Customer
Verified
Verified
Verified
Verified
Verified
Verified
Verified
Verified
Verified
Verified