Hanoi is a city of extremes—chaotic, charming, gritty, and full of surprises. If you’re heading to Vietnam’s capital, this guide covers everything I experienced during my three-night stay, from where to sleep to what to avoid.
Where I Stayed
I booked three nights at Old Quarter View Hostel, and it ended up being a great choice. The beds were surprisingly comfortable (a win for hostel life), and everything was super clean. The front desk staff were also amazing—they helped me book both my Ha Giang Loop and Ha Long Bay cruise hassle-free. If you’re looking for a budget-friendly, well-run place in the heart of the Old Quarter, I’d highly recommend this one.
The Reality of Beer Street
Let’s talk about Beer Street. It’s one of the most talked-about nightlife spots in Hanoi, and it’s wild—but not always in a good way. Out of all the big cities I’ve visited in Southeast Asia, this is where I felt the most harassed by locals.
During the day, it’s your typical loud, touristy bar street. But at night, it gets aggressive. Locals trying to sell drugs or offer other services will not only shout at you—they might literally grab your arm or put their arm around you to try and stop you. If you’re traveling solo or just not in the mood to deal with that kind of energy, I’d seriously recommend avoiding this road after dark.
Visiting Train Street
Train Street is one of Hanoi’s most famous attractions, and yes—it’s worth checking out at least once. A train barrels through a super narrow residential street, passing just inches from cafés and homes. It’s an insane sight.
A few tips to make the experience smoother:
You’ll need to order something to sit anywhere on the tracks, so find a spot you like and grab a cheap coffee or juice while you wait.
Look up the actual train schedule online before you go—locals may lie about the time to keep you sitting at their café.
Where to Eat: Banh Mi 25
Hanoi has no shortage of banh mi options, but one of the most popular spots is Banh Mi 25. I gave it a try—decent banh mi, good for a quick lunch or snack. But if you’ve been to Banh Mi Queen in Hoi An, it probably won’t blow your mind. Still, it’s worth visiting if you’re nearby and craving a bite.
Final Thoughts
Hanoi isn’t always an easy city—but it’s definitely one you won’t forget. Between the intense street scenes and the uniquely Vietnamese charm, it’s got a pulse all its own. With the right expectations and a little prep, you can make the most of what this wild city has to offer.
Let me know if you’ve been and what your experience was like—especially if you braved Beer Street at night.