Discover Hanoi
with Cathay Pacific

The old-world charm of Hanoi, Vietnam’s capital, captivates all those who visit –but that hardly means it’s a static city. There’s no shortage of things to do in Hanoi.
The frenetic Old Quarter and stately colonial edifices rub shoulders with upscale restaurants, bars and chic boutiques, while the constant buzz of motorbikes and the aromas of sizzling street food make for a glorious combination. From vibrant street life to gorgeous natural wonders, discover all of the highlights with our Hanoi travel guide.

Things to do in Hanoi

Catch visiting hours at the “Hanoi Hilton”

Originally built by French colonists to detain political prisoners, Hoa Lo Prison was later used by the North Vietnamese forces to detain American prisoners of war, earning it its infamous nickname, the “Hanoi Hilton”. Today, the site of this historical Hanoi attraction is a must-visit for history buffs, with sobering exhibits detailing a difficult chapter in Vietnam’s history.

Circle the West Lake

The city’s largest freshwater lake is popular with Hanoians practising tai chi, fishing or just enjoying a peaceful evening stroll. Visit the sixth-century Tran Quoc Pagoda or rent bikes to explore the 17-kilometre perimeter of the lake. Fuel your adventure by loading up on the lake’s specialty of banh tom ho tay – crayfish dunked in flour and deep-fried until golden and crispy.

Partake in the daily ritual of bia hoi

When you travel to Hanoi, indulging in bia hoi – a light draught beer freshly brewed daily – is the ideal reward for a busy day, and a beloved Hanoi tradition. Bia Hoi Junction is the city’s quintessential watering hole, where locals and visitors alike crowd together on plastic stools with ice-cold beers costing less than HK$2 a glass.