Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam, is a city rich in history, culture and charm.

Founded over a thousand years ago, it has evolved into a vibrant metropolis while retaining its traditional essence.

The Old Quarter is a bustling hub of narrow streets, ancient architecture, and street vendors selling everything from handmade crafts to local delicacies like pho and banh mi.

Hoan Kiem Lake, located at the heart of Hanoi, is a peaceful retreat from the busy streets and is surrounded by historic landmarks like the Ngoc Son Temple.

There is a mix of French colonial architecture, ancient temples, and modern developments offers a fascinating blend of past and present.

These attributes have led to a year of recognition, with the city winning a number of prestigious titles.

At the World Travel Awards, Hanoi took the titles of Asia’s Leading City Break Destination and Asia’s Leading City Destination.

Highlights for a city break include visit to the Temple of Literature, a centuries-old university, gives a glimpse into the academic past of Vietnam, while the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology provides insights into the diverse ethnic cultures of the country.

The city is also enriching for visitors, also recognised as Vietnam’s Leading Cultural Destination.

Hanoi’s French colonial past has left a lasting imprint on the city’s landscape.

The French influence can be seen in Hanoi’s architecture, with grandiose villas, boulevards, and landmarks like the Hanoi Opera House, which hosts classical music concerts, ballet performances, and opera.

Hanoi is home to a thriving contemporary art scene, with galleries showcasing both traditional lacquer painting and modern works.

Modern Hanoi is a dynamic city where traditional values coexist with rapid development and globalisation.

The city’s younger generations are shaping a contemporary urban culture, marked by growing cafes, art spaces, and live music venues.

Despite modernisation, Hanoi remains a stronghold of Vietnam’s cultural heritage.

The city’s emphasis on family, respect for elders, and community is evident in daily life, from the communal practice of sharing meals to the morning exercises seen around Hoan Kiem Lake.

Hanoi’s ability to preserve its historical depth while embracing the future makes it a fascinating city where the past and present are in constant dialogue.

At the World Culinary Awards, voters recognised the city as Asia’s Best Emerging Culinary City Destination.

The culinary scene is renowned for its rich, diverse flavours and the importance placed on fresh, local ingredients.

Street food is central to the city’s food culture, with bustling markets and vendors offering iconic Vietnamese dishes at affordable prices.

Pho, a fragrant noodle soup made with beef or chicken, is perhaps the most famous dish, known for its clear broth infused with herbs and spices.

Bun cha, another favourite, consists of grilled pork served with vermicelli noodles and a tangy dipping sauce, often accompanied by fresh herbs and spring rolls.

Banh mi, a French-inspired Vietnamese sandwich, is another street food staple, combining a crispy baguette with meats, pâté, and pickled vegetables.

Hibana by Koki at Capella Hanoi was also recognised, taking both Vietnam’s Best Hotel Restaurant and Asia’s Best Hotel Restaurant.

The location specialises in Japanese cuisine, particularly focusing on modern interpretations of traditional dishes.

The name Hibana translates to “spark” or “flame,” which reflects the restaurant’s commitment to delivering a dynamic and innovative dining experience.

The restaurant is known for its elegant and contemporary design, creating a sophisticated ambiance that complements its culinary offerings.

Finally, at the World Golf Awards, Hanoi took the title of World’s Best Golf City Destination.

The golf scene is characterised by a mix of modern, high-quality courses designed to cater to both amateur and experienced golfers.

Notable courses include the Hanoi Golf Club, which features a traditional layout with tree-lined fairways and water hazards, and Sky Lake Resort & Golf Club, known for its stunning landscapes and meticulously maintained greens.

These courses often provide a tranquil escape from the bustling city life, allowing golfers to enjoy serene natural surroundings while honing their skills.

In addition to the established golf courses, Hanoi is also seeing a rise in golf-related amenities and services, including driving ranges, putting greens, and golf academies.

This growing infrastructure supports both casual players and those looking to improve their game.

The golf community is active, with regular tournaments and social events held at various clubs.

The combination of high-quality facilities, picturesque settings, and a burgeoning golf culture makes Hanoi an appealing destination for golf enthusiasts.

More Information

Find out more about visiting Hanoi on the official website.