Zéphyr Suites Boutique Hotel
A classic hotel in the heart of Hanoi's Old Quarter
City Guide
In Hanoi, centuries-old buildings and mahogany trees peacefully gaze upon blustering frenzies of motorbikes and peddler-occupied sidewalks. While the capital of Vietnam holds on to its thousand-year history by preserving labyrinths of old alleyways and secret temples, it also races to break away from its war-torn past. More than four decades after the Vietnam War – or the American War, as it is locally known – Hanoi now electrifies locals and visitors alike with a nascent contemporary art scene, idiosyncratic boutiques and a boisterous nightlife that invites culture- and history-loving souls to come and explore.
When to go
Hanoi’s summer is scorching hot with high rainfall. But from November to April, breezy and cooler weather not only makes the chaotic traffic and blaring horns much more bearable, it also blows a charming breath into the timeworn city.
How to get around
Motorbikes are the soul of Hanoi. There’s no better way to dive right into the exuberant city life than sitting on the back seat of a motorbike. Two-wheeled taxis, or xe om in Vietnamese, are omnipresent and affordable with prices starting from S$0.6 per kilometre, although booking a scooter tour in advance always ensures a safer and more pleasant ride. The Old Quarter is best explored on foot, as streets are narrow and it is more enjoyable to browse the exciting array of artisanal goods on display. Metred taxis cost about S$0.6 per kilometre, while ride-sharing apps Grab and Go-Viet also operate in the city.
A classic hotel in the heart of Hanoi's Old Quarter
A chic Hanoi boutique hotel located near St Joseph’s Cathedral
A boutique hotel and spa with gorgeous views from a rooftop bar
An opulent hotel overlooking the peaceful Hoan Kiem Lake
A grand hotel that effortlessly blends colonial-style architecture with modern elements
An unassuming bánh mì stall with a devoted following of locals
Take a break from your Hanoi adventures and stop by this cute café for artisanal bakes and a fortifying cup of coffee
A unique cafés that offers a glimpse into Vietnam's communist history
An innovative Japanese-Italian restaurant specialising in wood-fired pizza
A hole-in-the-wall pho spot that's popular with locals
The best place to experience Vietnam's bia hoi culture
A unique bar concept that pairs fine cocktails with cultural events
A pioneering establishment in Vietnam's modern cocktail scene
A vibrant jazz club with live music daily
An aptly named rooftop bar with unrivalled city views
A showcase of Vietnam's matriarchal beliefs and traditions
Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum is the final resting place of the city's namesake
Now a museum, Hoa Lo now houses an array of artefacts from its sombre past
The oldest Buddhist temple in Hanoi, established in the sixth century
A dazzling stage interpretation of village life in Vietnam
A specialty vinyl store with a great selection of jazz records
An art studio specialising in avant-garde home décor and accessories
A showcase of Hanoi craftwork with humble beginnings
A gallery with a café and bar that hosts art workshops and more
Handmade in Vietnam, these ceramics make excellent souvenirs