Hanoi, A bridge between Asia East and the rest of the world
Connecting East and West
Hanoi is the capital and second-most populous city of Vietnam. The name "Hanoi" translates to "inside the river”, Hanoi is bordered by the Red and Black Rivers. As a municipality, Hanoi consists of 12 urban districts, 17 rural districts, and one district-level town. The city encompasses an area of 3,359.84 km2 (1,297.24 sq mi) and as of 2023, a population of 8,587,100. Hanoi had the second-highest gross regional domestic product of all Vietnamese provinces and municipalities at US$51.4 billion in 2022, behind Ho Chi Minh City.
Founded over 1000 years ago, Vietnam’s capital city is rich in history, with the streets of its rambling Old Quarter dating back to the 14th century. Wandering these tree-lined lanes past crumbling colonial facades will transport you back in time. However, today's Hanoi is about much more than the past. The ancient city is invigorated with modern cafes, world-class restaurants, and cool art galleries. When the sun goes down, you have your pick of watering holes, from sophisticated rooftop bars to buzzing bia hơi. If you're traveling to Hanoi for the first time, these are experiences you must try at least once in your life. From ancient temples to buzzing markets, Hanoi's got it all. It's the cultural heartbeat of Vietnam.
Hanoi's economy is projected to sustain an estimated GRDP growth rate of 6.52% this year, up from 6.27% on year, and a total economic size of US$58 billion.
Total state budget revenue is estimated at 120.5% of the forecast, or approximately $20.2 billion, of which domestic revenue accounts for around $18.9 billion, representing 93.8% of total revenue. Financial and credit policies have been effectively implemented to meet the capital needs for production and business activities on time.
Export and import turnover have shown a strong recovery. Exports reached $19.4 billion, up 16.7%, while imports amounted to $41.1 billion, up 9.6%. Foreign investment inflows are projected to exceed $2 billion.
Total development investment capital in the city reached nearly $22.6 billion, up 10.5%. Retail sales of goods and consumer services exceeded $36.3 billion, increasing by 10.5%. The average consumer price index for the year is estimated to range between 4.2% and 4.6%.
Sights in Hanoi
West Lake
West Lake is located in Hanoi’s Tay Ho district and constitutes the largest lake in Hanoi with a walkable shore length of 17 km. It is a popular retreat for Hanoi residents, who can often be seen walking and biking, as well as devotees visiting nearby temples. West Lake is the most famous tourist attraction in Hanoi, where the most beautiful sunsets can be captured.
Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum
Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum is an important historical attraction of Hanoi, known for honoring the national hero: President Ho Chi Minh. The building is where visitors can express their admiration and gratitude towards the common father/uncle of Vietnamese who has led the country to independence and reunification. It is popularly known among Vietnamese as Uncles’ Mausoleum, for the intimate and familiar atmosphere Ho Chi Minh always created when he was alive. Built over 2 years from 1973 to 1975, the Mausoleum is also a lively illustrator of national unity.
Hoan Kiem Lake
The Temple of Literature is about 10 minutes away from Hoan Kiem lake. It was constructed in 1070 under Ly Thanh Tong’s dynasty, first to honor Confucius and nowadays to celebrate the doctorates and high rank scholars of Vietnam. In 1076, King Ly Nhan Tong continued the work and built Quoc Tu Giam as the first university of Vietnam.
Temple of Literature – Van Mieu
Agmashenebeli Avenue is one of the longest and most beautiful streets of the city. Here you can find gorgeous historic buildings, painted entryways and distinctive architectural ornaments.