Where to stay in Hanoi

The Old Quarter is the soul of Hanoi, with narrow streets named after the goods once sold there. Days are filled with market stalls, tiny cafes, temples and food at every turn, and the lake is a short walk away. Evenings bring a lively scene around the bar streets, while side lanes remain more peaceful. Hotels are plentiful, from simple guesthouses to stylish boutiques, and service tends to be warm. Noise is the main drawback, so request a quiet room away from the main road. Crossing streets takes patience: move slowly and steadily. It is the best base for exploring on foot.

Getting around: Best explored on foot; ride-hailing and taxis cover longer trips, with no metro in the core.

The French Quarter is a calmer, more elegant alternative to the Old Quarter. Broad avenues, restored villas and historic hotels give it a graceful feel, and cultural venues are close by. You can walk to the lake and the heart of the old city in a few minutes, then return to a quiet room. Evenings suit fine dining, cocktails and theatre rather than street-side revelry. Prices are generally higher, and cheap street food is less common, though you can find it nearby. It is a strong choice for couples, business travellers and anyone wanting comfort with a sense of history.

Getting around: Walkable from the lake; taxis and ride-hailing handle other trips.

West Lake is a relaxed residential district around the city's largest lake. It attracts expats, long-stay travellers and families who want more space and a slower pace. Mornings and evenings bring joggers and cyclists to the paths, and the area has good cafes, restaurants and temples. Serviced apartments and boutique hotels offer comfort at fair prices. You will need to take a taxi or ride-hailing car to reach the main sights, which can take a while at busy times. It is less suitable for a short trip if you want to wander and snack on foot all day.

Getting around: No metro for visitors; ride-hailing and taxis are the normal way to reach the centre.

Ba Dinh is the political and historic centre of Vietnam, with broad squares, gardens and important monuments. It suits travellers who care about history and want a peaceful base. Days are for visiting the mausoleum complex, museums and the nearby temple, often best early to avoid heat and queues. Evenings are quiet, so you will take a short ride to the Old Quarter for lively food and drink. Some attractions have strict opening hours and dress codes, so check before you go. Hotels here are fewer but often good value, and the streets feel safe and orderly.

Getting around: Taxis and ride-hailing are easiest; the Old Quarter is a short ride away.

Staying beside Hoan Kiem Lake puts you at the meeting point of the old and colonial districts. Early risers can join locals for tai chi and walks around the water, and the nearby streets offer cafes, markets, theatre and museums. Hotels cover many budgets and are often well run. The area is busy at all hours, and weekend evenings bring crowds to the pedestrian streets. Traffic on the roads around the lake can be noisy, so ask for a room away from the main road. It is an ideal base for a short trip when you want to walk everywhere.

Getting around: Everything is walkable; use ride-hailing for farther destinations.