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When we first imagined Hanoi in Vietnam, we pictured a city that’s chaotic and beautiful at the same time — and that’s exactly what we found. From the moment we stepped into the Old Quarter, we were surrounded by scooters, constant honking, and traffic that somehow ignored every red light. It was pure madness (thankfully, we didn’t have to drive), but also completely fascinating.
Very quickly, we fell in love with the city’s energy — the night markets, the tiny plastic chairs and street-side restaurants, the smell of Vietnamese coffee, and the mix of ancient temples and modern life around Hoan Kiem Lake and the Hanoi Train Street.
We stayed in both the Old Quarter and French Quarter, which sit side by side and couldn’t feel more different. Back then, we were backpacking and chose a few cheap local hotels, but next time we’d love to try Ba Dinh or Tay Ho for a quieter, more local stay.
Choosing the right area can really shape your trip — especially if it’s your first time here. So in this guide, we’ll help you decide where to stay in Hanoi, share what we learned from exploring different neighborhoods, and recommend some of the best hotels and places to stay across the city.
In a hurry?
These are our top hotels in Hanoi we’d book again
⭐️⭐️⭐️ Le Premier Hotel & Rooftop Bar (our top pick) – Mid-range hotel in the Old Quarter with modern rooms, great staff, and a rooftop bar overlooking the city.
👉 See prices & availability →
⭐️⭐️ Splendid Secret Hotel – Luxury stay in the French Quarter with elegant rooms, a rooftop pool, and a quiet yet central location near Hoan Kiem Lake.
👉 See prices & availability →
⭐️ Homestay CHAT – Affordable stay in Ba Dinh, just a short walk from the Old Quarter.
👉 See prices & availability →
Where to stay in Hanoi: Our experience
We spent most of our time in Hanoi’s Old Quarter, and honestly, it’s exactly what we imagined — chaotic, colorful, and full of life. We chose to stay here because it’s close to everything, and countless food stalls were just a short walk away.
What we loved most was the energy — scooters flying past, locals chatting on tiny stools, and the smell of pho drifting through the streets. It’s loud and messy, but that’s part of the charm. If it’s your first time visiting, this is the best area to stay in Hanoi to really feel the city’s atmosphere.
Tip: Book a hotel on a smaller side street if you want the same buzz but less noise.
After a few nights, we moved to the French Quarter — and it felt like stepping into a completely different world. We wanted something calmer but still central, and this area was perfect for that.
The wide boulevards, elegant colonial buildings, and stylish cafés gave Hanoi a softer, more relaxed feel. It’s pricier and quieter at night, but we loved being able to unwind here after a long day of exploring. If you want a mix of convenience and peace, the French Quarter is worth it.
We didn’t stay in Ba Dinh or Tay Ho, but we visited both and can see why many travelers choose them.
Ba Dinh feels more local and spacious, with large parks and major landmarks, while Tay Ho offers a modern lakeside lifestyle with trendy cafés and incredible sunset views. They’re both a bit farther from the main sights, but perfect if you prefer more space and calm.
Each area shows a different side of Hanoi — and choosing the right one really depends on what kind of trip you want.
Best areas to stay in Hanoi
Before we dive into the details, here’s a quick map of Hanoi’s main areas. It’ll help you see how close everything is — from the lively Old Quarter and elegant French Quarter to the quieter districts like Ba Dinh and Tay Ho (West Lake). It’s the easiest way to figure out which neighborhood best fits your style and trip.
Old Quarter (Hoan Kiem District)
If there’s one place that captures the real Hanoi, it’s the Old Quarter. Located right in the heart of the city, this is where everything happens — the food, the chaos, the colors, and the culture.
Every corner feels alive: street vendors serve steaming bowls of pho next to colonial buildings, scooters weave through narrow alleys, and the smell of coffee and grilled meat fills the air.
We stayed here during our first visit and loved being able to walk everywhere — from Hoan Kiem Lake to Dong Xuan Market. Yes, it’s loud, messy, and a little overwhelming at first, but that’s exactly what makes it so unforgettable. The mix of street food, night markets, and nightlife gives the area a constant pulse that’s impossible to resist.
It’s easily the best area to stay in Hanoi for first-time visitors who want to experience the city’s energy up close.
✅ Pros: Walkable, full of life, endless food and attractions nearby
❌ Cons: Can be noisy day and night, traffic chaos never stops
⭐️ Best for: First-time visitors who want to experience the real Hanoi
French Quarter (Hoan Kiem District)
Just a short walk from the Old Quarter, the French Quarter feels like a completely different world. We chose to stay here during our second visit and wanted something calmer but still central — and it was exactly that. The wide boulevards, grand colonial buildings, and tree-lined streets give this area a completely different rhythm.
It’s perfect if you enjoy exploring on foot but prefer space, quiet, and a touch of old-town charm. Around Trang Tien Street and the Opera House, you’ll find elegant cafés, boutique hotels, and perfect restaurants. It’s one of the best places to stay in Hanoi if you want comfort without losing the local feel. It’s pricier and quieter at night, but the atmosphere makes it worth it.
Try staying near Hoan Kiem Lake for the best balance — close to the Old Quarter, but peaceful enough.
✅ Pros: Central but calm, elegant architecture, great cafés and boutique hotels
❌ Cons: More expensive, less nightlife
⭐️ Best for: Couples or anyone who prefers a quieter, more refined stay
Ba Dinh District
We didn’t stay in Ba Dinh, but after spending time there, we can tell you what it feels like. It’s more residential and local, with big tree-lined streets, green parks, and landmarks like the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and Presidential Palace. The vibe is much quieter than the center — more about daily life than nightlife — which makes it a great choice if you prefer calm evenings and fewer tourists around.
It’s also a good base if you want more space and better value for money. Most attractions in the Old Quarter are still just a short ride away, so you won’t feel far from the action.
Insider tip: Download the Grab app (Vietnam’s version of Uber) — it’s the easiest and cheapest way to get around from Ba Dinh to the main sights.
✅ Pros: Local vibe, spacious streets, close to major landmarks
❌ Cons: Limited nightlife and fewer restaurants within walking distance
⭐️ Best for: Travelers who want a quiet, authentic base near the city center
Tay Ho (West Lake)
We only visited Tay Ho once, but it left a strong impression. Centered around the huge West Lake, this part of Hanoi feels modern, open, and calm compared to the rest of the city. The lakefront is lined with cafés, rooftop bars, and a mix of local spots and international restaurants — it’s easy to see why so many expats live here.
It’s about a 15–20 minute drive from the main attractions, so it’s not ideal for quick sightseeing, but perfect if you want more space and slower mornings by the water. The atmosphere is relaxed and scenic, offering a nice break from the chaos of the Old Quarter.
✅ Pros: Scenic, peaceful, great cafés and restaurants, cleaner air
❌ Cons: Farther from main attractions, limited nightlife
⭐️ Best for: Longer stays or travelers who want a calm, local vibe
Best Hotels in Hanoi
This list brings together our favorite places to stay in Hanoi — from character-filled boutique hotels in the Old Quarter to elegant stays in the French Quarter and quiet escapes around West Lake. We’ve explored the main neighborhoods, compared countless options, and picked the ones we’d genuinely book again.
Budget hotels start at $10–40, mid-range stays at $50–110, and luxury hotels at $120+ per night for two.
Best hotels in Old Quarter
Staying in the Old Quarter means waking up right in the middle of Hanoi’s chaos — in the best way possible. It’s loud, lively, and full of character, with street food, markets, and temples just steps from your door.
Golden Rooster Hotel $
If you’re after a comfortable budget stay right in the heart of the Old Quarter, Golden Rooster Hotel is easily one of the best value-for-money options in Hanoi. Rooms are clean and bright, the staff are incredibly friendly, and the location couldn’t be better — just a few minutes’ walk from Hoan Kiem Lake and the night market.
It’s simple but has everything you need, including a good breakfast and surprisingly quiet rooms for such a central spot. If you want a budget hotel that actually feels welcoming and well-run, this is a great choice.
⭐️ Best for: Travelers on a budget who still want comfort and a great location
👉 Check availability and current prices →
Le Premier Hotel & Rooftop Bar $$ (Our Top Pick)
If we had to pick one place for our next stay in Hanoi, it would definitely be Le Premier Hotel & Rooftop Bar. This mid-range hotel is one of the best-rated places to stay in the Old Quarter, and it completely deserves that reputation. The location is ideal — right in the center but still peaceful enough for a good night’s sleep. Rooms are modern, bright, and beautifully designed, and the staff are incredibly helpful and friendly.
The highlight is the rooftop bar, with panoramic views over the Old Quarter — perfect for sunset drinks or a quiet evening after a day of exploring. It’s stylish without being overpriced and offers everything we’d want in a comfortable, mid-range stay.
⭐️ Best for: Travelers who want comfort, great value, and views right in the heart of the Old Quarter
👉 Check availability and current prices →
The Oriental Jade Hotel $$$
If you’re after a luxury stay that still feels authentic, The Oriental Jade Hotel is hard to beat. Located just steps from Hoan Kiem Lake, it combines elegant design with warm Vietnamese hospitality. Rooms are spacious and beautifully decorated, the beds are incredibly comfortable, and the city views from the upper floors are something special.
The highlight here is the rooftop pool and bar — the perfect place to unwind after exploring the Old Quarter’s busy streets. There’s also a spa, a gym, and an excellent breakfast, making it easy to start each day relaxed and recharged. It’s one of the best hotels in Hanoi for travelers who want comfort, great location, and a touch of luxury all in one.
⭐️ Best for: Couples and travelers who want a stylish, high-comfort hotel near Hoan Kiem Lake
👉 Check availability and current prices →
Best hotels in French Quarter
If you want a calmer base without leaving the city center, the French Quarter is where Hanoi slows down. It’s elegant, walkable, and full of charm — perfect for evenings in cozy cafés and quiet streets lined with old colonial buildings.
Rainbow HomeStay $
We didn’t expect much when we booked Rainbow HomeStay, but it quickly became one of those places that surprises you in the best way. It’s a small, locally run budget guesthouse tucked inside a quiet street in the French Quarter, just a short walk from Hoan Kiem Lake. The owner was incredibly kind, always ready to help with directions, local food tips, or just a friendly chat over morning coffee.
Our room was simple but clean and cozy — the kind of place where you can drop your bags and unwind after a full day in Hanoi’s chaos. If you’re looking for a place that’s personal, affordable, and run with genuine care, Rainbow HomeStay is one we can honestly recommend from experience.
⭐️ Best for: Budget travelers who value local hospitality
👉 Check availability and current prices →
Hanoi Emerald Waters Hotel Valley $$
Hanoi Emerald Waters Hotel Valley is a stylish mid-range hotel combining a central location with modern comfort. It’s close to Hoan Kiem Lake, the Opera House, and plenty of cafes and restaurants — ideal if you want to explore on foot. Rooms are comfortable and thoughtfully designed, offering great value for this area.
The highlight here is the rooftop bar and small pool, a rare bonus for a city hotel, along with an excellent breakfast served each morning. It’s a place we can genuinely recommend if you want a peaceful stay with solid facilities and easy access to Hanoi’s main attractions.
⭐️ Best for: Couples or travelers who want a comfortable stay with great facilities near Hoan Kiem Lake
👉 Check availability and current prices →
Splendid Secret Hotel $$$ (Our Top Pick)
If we had to pick one place to stay in the French Quarter, it would be Splendid Secret Hotel. This luxury hotel blends location, comfort, and design perfectly — just a short walk from Hoan Kiem Lake, yet calm and relaxing once you step inside.
Rooms are modern and spacious with a warm, elegant feel, and the rooftop pool is the highlight — ideal for a quiet swim or a sunset drink with city views. Add a great breakfast and genuinely kind staff, and it’s easy to see why this is our top pick in Hanoi.
We genuinely recommend this hotel if you’re looking for a stylish, luxury stay with attention to detail.
⭐️ Best for: Travelers who want a luxurious yet authentic Hanoi stay with city views and excellent facilities
👉 Check availability and current prices →
Best hotels in Ba Dinh
Ba Dinh feels more local and laid-back, surrounded by wide streets, trees, and landmarks. It’s a great area to stay if you want a quiet neighborhood that’s still just a quick ride from the main attractions.
Homestay CHAT $
Homestay CHAT is a great budget find in Ba Dinh District, just a short walk from the Old Quarter — close enough to reach the main sights easily, but far enough to escape the noise and crowds. Rooms are simple, clean, and comfortable, with surprisingly good beds for the price. The atmosphere is calm, and the owners are genuinely kind, always around if you need anything.
If you want an affordable stay that’s local, quiet, and still within walking distance of the city center, this is a great choice.
⭐️ Best for: Budget travelers who want a quiet local base near the Old Quarter
👉 Check availability and current prices →
An Nguyen Lakeside Residence $$ (Our Top Pick)
If we had to choose one place to stay in Ba Dinh, it would be An Nguyen Lakeside Residence. This mid-range stay stands out for its quiet lakeside location, modern design, and great value — all without feeling far from the city center. It’s walkable to the Old Quarter, and you get peaceful mornings and calm evenings.
The rooms are large, bright, and well-furnished, with big windows and balconies overlooking the lake. Everything feels new and well-maintained. The location is also excellent — set on a quiet street where you don’t hear the usual car and motorbike noise, so nights are peaceful and restful.
What makes it our top pick is the balance — modern comfort, great price, local surroundings, and that rare sense of calm right in the city.
⭐️ Best for: Travelers who want modern comfort, lake views, and a peaceful base near the city center
👉 Check availability and current prices →
Lotte Hotel Hanoi $$$
Lotte Hotel Hanoi sets the standard for luxury stays in Ba Dinh District. Sitting high above the city, it offers panoramic views, sleek modern design, and some of the best facilities in Hanoi. The location is ideal — surrounded by shops, cafés, and local restaurants, and just a short ride from the Old Quarter and West Lake.
Rooms are spacious and beautifully designed, with floor-to-ceiling windows that make the skyline feel like part of the décor. The highlight is the rooftop infinity pool, one of the highest in Hanoi, along with a world-class spa, fitness center, and multiple fine-dining restaurants.
It’s not the cheapest option, but if you want a hotel that delivers true comfort and unforgettable city views, Lotte Hotel Hanoi is worth every cent.
⭐️ Best for: Travelers who want five-star luxury, panoramic views, and top-tier facilities in a central location
👉 Check availability and current prices →
Best hotels in Tay Ho (West Lake)
Tay Ho offers a completely different side of Hanoi — relaxed, modern, with beautiful lake views and a slower rhythm. It’s ideal if you’d rather swap busy streets for calm mornings and sunset drinks by the water.
- iRest Orange $
- PentStudio $$
- Oakwood Residence Hanoi $$$
iRest Orange Tay Ho Lakeside Apartment $
iRest Orange is a great budget stay in Tay Ho, offering quiet lakeside living at an affordable price. It’s a bit far from the Old Quarter — an interesting walk if you’ve got time to explore, but most travelers will probably take a quick Grab ride instead. The upside is experiencing a calmer, more local side of Hanoi, surrounded by plenty of good cafés and restaurants.
The apartments are bright and spacious, with a small kitchenette, balcony, and comfortable bed. It’s the kind of place that feels homely and relaxed — ideal for anyone who prefers independence and a peaceful base near West Lake.
⭐️ Best for: Budget travelers who want a quiet stay near West Lake
👉 Check availability and current prices →
PentStudio WestLake Tay Ho $$
PentStudio is a modern mid-range apartment stay right by West Lake, surrounded by great cafés and restaurants. The location is unbeatable — close enough to reach the city easily, yet quiet enough to feel relaxed after a busy day out.
The apartments are bright and comfortable, with big windows, a kitchenette, laundry facilities, and a TV with Netflix. The view from the upper floors is great, and the host goes above and beyond to make sure everything feels easy and comfortable.
It’s a great option for travelers who want space, comfort, and a calm place to unwind while still staying close to everything.
⭐️ Best for: Travelers who want a modern apartment stay with comfort and great views near West Lake
👉 Check availability and current prices →
Oakwood Residence Hanoi $$$ (Our Top Pick)
If we had to pick one place to stay in Tay Ho, it would be Oakwood Residence Hanoi. This luxury stay offers five-star comfort at a surprisingly good price, combining modern apartments with resort-style facilities. The location is ideal — quiet and relaxed, away from the noise of the Old Quarter, but surrounded by plenty of small local restaurants (many not even on Google Maps yet).
The apartments are spotless and spacious, with incredible views over West Lake from the rooms. The highlight is the infinity pool overlooking the water, along with a sauna, Jacuzzi, and gym. The breakfast is exceptional, and the staff are friendly and professional, making everything run smoothly from check-in to checkout.
For the price and the level of comfort, Oakwood Residence Hanoi is one of the best-value luxury stays in the city and easily our top pick in Tay Ho.
⭐️ Best for: Travelers who want five-star comfort, great facilities, and peaceful lake views
👉 Check availability and current prices →
FAQ About the Best Places to Stay in
What is the best place to stay in Hanoi for couples?
The French Quarter and Tay Ho are best for couples. The French Quarter is calm and elegant, while Tay Ho offers lake views and cozy cafés for relaxed evenings.
What are the best adults-only hotels in Hanoi?
Two great adults-only stays in Hanoi are Casa Dos Príncipes Hotel & Spa and M Village Hotel Ho Guom. Both offer a calm, stylish atmosphere, modern design, and great central locations.
Where to stay in Hanoi for nightlife?
The Old Quarter is the best area for nightlife. It’s packed with bars, rooftop spots, and street-side beer corners that stay busy late into the night. Everything’s within walking distance, so you’ll never be far from the action.
What is the best place to stay in Hanoi with kids?
MAY DE VILLE Corner Hotel and La Siesta Classic Hang Thung are both great choices for families. They offer spacious rooms, central locations near major attractions, and family-friendly facilities, making staying in Hanoi easy and comfortable.
Final thoughts on where to stay in Hanoi
After staying in Hanoi and exploring its main areas, we’ve learned how much your base can shape your trip. If it’s your first visit, we’d recommend starting in the Old Quarter — it’s busy, a little chaotic, but that’s exactly what makes it unforgettable. For a calmer stay with more space, the French Quarter is a great alternative and still close to everything.
If you prefer quieter evenings and local life, Ba Dinh is a solid choice, while Tay Ho works best if you want longer stays or mornings by the lake.
Wherever you stay, Hanoi will find its way under your skin — through its food, sounds, and the small moments that make this city so easy to fall in love with.
