Cool bars, hidden courtyards and history aplenty… Uncover the charm of Vietnam’s budget-friendly city
Tackle the capital head-on says Catherine Bennion-Pedley
HANOI makes London look super-clean and serene, so it’s easy to get overwhelmed and end up running straight back to your hotel.
But with hidden courtyards, cool bars and history aplenty, you’ll uncover the city’s charm if you head to the right spots…
Sip in secret gardens
A good cocktail should only set you back about £3 in the city.
Collapse amid the floor cushions at Lantern Lounge on Ma May street underneath strings of pretty lights.
Opposite, arty Nola Cafe has a secret garden covered by colourful umbrellas, while Bohemian-style Bar Betta in the French Quarter boasts rooftop views.
Coffee’s big here, too – sip a coconut cup at one of the communist-themed Công Càphé’s, £1.50.
Eat fruity fish and seaweed pizza
’s creative mains – think tuna in passion fruit sauce – cost less than a tenner and are washed down nicely with an artichoke flower cocktail.
Looking for something a little fancier? Tuck into French-Vietnamese food at with four courses from just £28, including treats such as duck with lychee salad.
If you’re craving carbs, ’s serves Asian-inspired pizzas and makes its own cheese.
Meet Ho Chi Minh
Yep, come face to face with the embalmed ex-leader at the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, entry 30p – and expect to queue – then explore his old palace grounds, entry 80p.
Nearby, the Temple of Literature doesn’t sound exciting, but Vietnam’s first university has lovely landscaped courtyards, entry £1.
The city’s Buddhist past means there are many temples (some tiny), while Hoa Lo Prison museum, with its stories about the torture of ex-prisoners, is truly thought-provoking, entry £1.
Seek local silks
Hang Gai Street, best known for silk, also has homeware and clothing boutiques like and .
But Hoi Vu street is less crowded and has fab small boutiques.
Head to cute cafe The Hanoi Social Club to chill out, then catch what’s basically a cleverer, water-themed Punch & Judy show at the , £3.
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Sail to Halong Bay
Take an overnight cruise to spy the spectacular rock formations and islands of Halong Bay – a three-hour drive from Hanoi.
Be warned, it’s now a real tourist trap and the sea is sadly polluted.
But if you want to spend a night on the waves and kayak through floating fishing villages, go for it.
Some boats even have Jacuzzi baths!
All-inclusive cost from £138 per person.
Breakfast like a king
Find respite from the craziness of Hanoi’s Old Quarter at The Mövenpick Hotel, a short walk south of pretty Hoan Kiem Lake.
Rooms feature rain showers and there’s a huge breakfast buffet of Asian and European treats. Doubles start from £54 a night.
Return direct flights with Vietnam Airlines from London Heathrow start from £445.
Book with tailor-made holiday experts (01342 886941).