Hanoi

Best time to visit

October to April is the best time to visit Hanoi, when temperatures are cooler and more comfortable, ranging from 15–25°C. November to January brings crisp, dry weather ideal for sightseeing. February and March can be misty and drizzly but are quieter and atmospheric. Avoid May to September if possible — this is the hot, humid monsoon season with temperatures exceeding 38°C and heavy afternoon downpours. Tet (Lunar New Year, usually January or February) is spectacular culturally but many businesses close and the city empties as locals return to their home provinces.

Getting around

Hanoi has no metro system yet (Line 2A opened in 2021 but has limited reach), so most visitors rely on ride-hailing apps. Grab is the dominant app for both motorbike taxis (GrabBike) and cars (GrabCar) — always use the app fare rather than negotiating with street taxis to avoid overcharging. Be Taxi is a reliable local alternative. For short hops in the Old Quarter, walking is often fastest given traffic congestion. Cyclos (three-wheeled bicycle rickshaws) are fun for a slow scenic ride but agree on a price firmly beforehand. Renting a bicycle or electric scooter is popular for exploring Tay Ho and the West Lake area. Avoid flagging down unmarked taxis — stick to Mai Linh (green) or Vinasun (white) if not using an app.