Cheap Flights to Hanoi from $490

Vietnam with a 1,289 sq mile area, in Vietnam, is the 2nd largest city with a population of 202 million. Hanoi is one of the most ancient capitals in the world and is a city where people can explore unique museums, well-preserved colonial buildings, and ancient pagodas right in the center of the city. Its tranquil countryside with lush green parks, mountain views with traditional villages is also a short drive away for the city. If you are traveling to Vietnam for the first time, Hanoi should be the first stop on your list.  With a vibrant night-life and a multi-cultural community of Chinese, French and Russian influences, this beautiful city can be easily explored on foot. 

Once in Hanoi, the first thing one will notice is its narrow streets with layers of history of French and Chinese occupation, surge with scooters amid the blaring horns. While you get past the street side shops and ubiquitous merchants, you will find the streets where farmers are trying to hawk their wave, city folks enjoying breakfast and kids practicing t’ai chi. These streets truly offer a glimpse into the life of the resilience of proud and ambitious Hanoians.

Tip: Hanoi is a year-round destination but the months of May, June, and October are when you can avoid the crowd and save money to enjoy the most of your trip.

Reaching Hanoi 

Situated 35 km from the main city, Hanoi’s Noi Bai International Airport is the main point of air travel to the country and outside. It is also the largest airport in Vietnam and can easily be reached by bus or taxis from the city center. There are various airlines that offer direct flights to Hanoi depending on where you are flying from. Operators like the Thai AirAsia, VietJet Air, Vietnam Airlines, Asiana and Cathay Pacific are the best options you have while booking flights to Hanoi. Depending upon the airlines, your personal preference and travel itinerary, you can opt for the cheap flights to Hanoi. It is advisable to make your flight bookings at least 30 days in advance as this route is very popular.

Tip: Since Hanoi is a busy tourist destination book your flight at least one month in advance to avail the best flight and discount options.

Getting around Hanoi 

Hanoi is relatively safe for tourists and easily accessible. The best way to travel through Hanoi is to use public transport modes or a taxi which are both convenient, affordable, fast and safe. With numerous service providers and 70 bus routes, buses are considered as the cheapest way to travel around the city. You can see the schedule for any bus for the day on the website of Hanoi Urban Transport Management and Operation Centre. The bus network is wide from the center and connects to train stations and major tourist sites. Taxi is also one of the popular ways to travel within the city. The fares are meter-based and reasonable.  The most trusted and popular taxi services are Mai Linh and Hanoi Taxi.

Tip: The weather in Hanoi is either dry, hot and humid or rainy. Make sure that you check the weather as per your travel date and pack accordingly.

What to do in Hanoi 

Hanoi is considered as the most dynamic and culturally rich city in Vietnam. You can witness this through its modern architecture that exists along with its centuries-old monuments and exciting nightlife that it has to offer. The must-visit places in Hanoi include Bach Ma Temple, the oldest temple in Hanoi, nestled in the old Quarter of the city that was built in the 11th century. You will surely have a moving and inspiring experience here. You can visit and learn about the history of the Vietnamese culture and language in the Museum of Ethnology. Learn about the history, culture as well as the French colonial period and the history of the Vietnam War of the country in the National Museum of Vietnamese History.

Do not forget to explore the Old Quarter, located at the northern end of Hoan Kiem lake. Take a boat tour on the West Lake and just enjoy the beautiful view of the city from the river. You will get to see Tran Quoc pagoda and Quan Thanh Temple which is located in the middle of the lake on a small island. Visit to admire the beautiful architecture of Lotte Tower Observation Deck and enjoy the breathtaking views from the 65th floor of the building. Make sure that you visit and take in the city views from Long Bien Bridge.

Some of the other must-visit places in Hanoi are Hoàn Kiếm Lake, Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, Temple Of Literature, Thăng Long Imperial Citadel, One Pillar Pagoda, Hoa Lo Prison Memorial and Temple of the Jade Mountain.

Tip: You should visit Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, which is a pilgrimage for many Vietnamese people, and pay tribute to the man “Uncle Ho”, who led the fight for a unified and independent Vietnam.

Best places to dine, shop and stay in Hanoi 

Hanoi, being the cultural heart of the country is very popular for the best Vietnamese food. If you are looking for cheap restaurants or street food, then go to the Old District. Among all these, La Badiane is the best to enjoy continental food options. While in Hanoi, you must try out the local cuisine like Banh Cuon( steamed rice paper rolls), Bun Oc(snail noodle soup), Lau (Vietnamese hot-pot), Hanoi-style barbecue, and Bun ca (noodle soup with fish).

For budget accommodations, the best areas for accommodation are Hoan Kiem, Hanoi’s commercial center, and the Old Quarter where most prominent attractions can be easily accessible on foot. These places are filled with colonial architecture, art galleries, boutique shops, street markets, and Buddhist temples. For a high-end luxury experience, go for hotels and resorts in The French Quarter on the south of Hanoi. It hosts most of the city’s luxury hotels, upmarket shopping malls, financial institutions, government offices, and embassies.

You will get all kinds of things in Hanoi from local products, souvenirs to a few international and branded products. Old Quarter has some excellent stores and malls if you are looking to buy imported goods. You can get things like ceramics and potteries, green rice flakes, lotus tea, assorted dried fruits, Banh Cha, lacquer paintings, silk clothing, and traditional embroidered clothing in Hanoi. Visit Hang Gai street which is the most popular market in the city for local goods specially silk.

Tip: Vietnam is famous for its coffee and you can try some at the famous Giang Café or buy some coffee at the local market from the city center in Hanoi. A must-try is the "ca phe trung" (local egg coffee), which is somewhere between a dessert and a beverage.

To experience the history, rich culture and the best of what Hanoi has to offer, you need a reliable source to book your tickets. Trip.com brings to you the convenience of booking your flights and accommodation at affordable prices, so you can enjoy the ancient culture and warm hospitality that Hanoi has to offer with ease. They also offer great deals and discounts on every booking.