Tran Quang
Hanoi is widely recognized for its abundance of romantic activities that couples can enjoy. The city exudes romance at every corner.
From charming cafes where couples can sit, hold hands, and watch passersby, to hidden gardens and lively alleys, Hanoi offers a variety of enjoyable experiences for those in love. Moreover, from Hanoi, you can easily embark on adventures to Ha Giang, Sa Pa, and Ninh Binh. Here are some of the best ways to experience the city with your loved one.
>>> Check out: Best Things to Do in Hanoi for Couples on TripAdvisor
Most Romantic Things to Do in Hanoi For Couples
The village is located approximately 30 km from the city center. You have the option to take a taxi or, even better, rent a motorbike to get there. This place is ideal for photo shoots with your partner. It is highly recommended to visit on a sunny day, as the lighting enhances the beauty of the scenery.
Stroll the Streets of Trang Tien- It Is One of the Most Romantic Areas in Hanoi!
Trang Tien Street, located in the French Quarter, is a delightful place to explore. From the book and café street of Dinh Le to the Hanoi Opera House, there are plenty of attractions to visit.
The French Quarter neighborhood in Hanoi offers numerous romantic activities. Simply strolling along the streets and discovering hidden staircases and charming alleys can occupy a whole day together in this district. For an even more memorable experience, indulge in the famous Trang Tien ice cream together to make your trip perfect.
>>> Check out: A Free & Self-guided Hanoi French Quarter Tour 2023
Explore the Cho Gioi Area
This unique Cho Gioi market area is different from the rest of the city, with an abundance of historical stories. You can have a lot of fun and adventures here while discovering this hidden part of Hanoi. Learning something new and interesting with your partner in a new city is a great way to bond together. This area is just about 2 km away from the French Quarter, yet it holds a rich history. Join our Stories from the Vietnam War tour to explore this area with an expert guide.
Hoan Kiem Lake
Hoan Kiem Lake, located in the heart of the city, offers a picturesque walk, boat ride, and the opportunity to visit Ngoc Son Temple on an island. The lake is particularly romantic at night, adorned with colorful lights. Surrounding the lake, you will find numerous excellent restaurants and coffee shops where you can unwind and enjoy your time.
>>> Check out: 10+ Best Green Spaces, Gardens & Parks in Hanoi Worth Visiting
Skyline Bar for sunset
This elegant rooftop bar is located at 34 Gia Ngu Street in the Old Quarter. Situated on the 15th floor, it offers one of the highest views in the old town. From here, you can enjoy a great view of various landmarks in the city, including the historic Long Bien Bridge, St. Joseph Cathedral of Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, Lottle Tower, Hoan Kiem Lake, Red River, and the French Quarter of Hanoi.
Binh Minh’s Jazz Club
This popular jazz club in the Old Quarter is perfect for listening to live music and enjoying a drink with your partner. The club features talented local and international musicians and a sophisticated vibe.
Visit the Temple of Literature & National University
This historic site dates back to the 11th century and allows you to admire ancient architecture, learn about the history of education and literature in Vietnam, and see the names of scholars who passed the royal exams engraved on stone steles. You can also enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of the temple gardens and ponds and take some photos with traditional costumes that are available for rent.
Watch a show at the Hanoi Opera House
This stunning neo-classical building was built by the French in the early 20th century and is a cultural landmark of the city. You can watch various performances such as opera, ballet, musicals, and concerts while admiring the elegant interior of the opera house, which features marble floors, chandeliers, and frescoes.
Explore the Fine Arts Museum
This art museum showcases the diverse and rich artistic heritage of Vietnam, from ancient times to modern days. You can see various artworks such as paintings, sculptures, ceramics, lacquerware, and folk art while learning about the different styles and influences of Vietnamese art, such as Buddhism, Confucianism, colonialism, and communism.
>>> Check out: Top 8 Must-Visit Museums in Hanoi – 2023
Take a cooking class and a food walking tour
This fun and interactive way to learn more about Vietnamese cuisine and culture involves joining a cooking class that teaches you how to prepare some of the most popular dishes in Vietnam, such as pho, spring rolls, banh mi, and bun cha. You can also visit a local market to buy fresh ingredients and enjoy your own creations at the end of the class.
Enjoy a water puppet show
This unique and traditional form of art originated in rural areas of Vietnam and involves wooden puppets controlled by hidden puppeteers in a pool of water. The puppets perform stories and legends that reflect Vietnamese culture and history, accompanied by live music and singing. You can watch a water puppet show at one of the theaters in Hanoi, such as Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre or Lotus Water Puppet Theatre.
Enjoy the sunset at the West Lake
West Lake is a great place for sunset lovers. If you are lucky, you can enjoy a clear sunset. It is my favorite place in town. Keep in mind that you need to check the sunset time in Hanoi, which is normally around 6 PM. The best place to watch the sunset is on Thanh Nien Street. Additionally, enjoying an ice cream nearby is a great option.
Visit the train street
This unique and romantic street is a great place to spend time with your loved one. You can enjoy a cup of coffee while waiting for the train to pass by, and capture beautiful photos to create lasting memories.
>>> Check out: Couple Visit Hanoi’s Famous Train Street || ViralHog
Enjoy the Craft beer
Craft beer in Hanoi is becoming increasingly popular. Visit the famous Saigon Street Craft Beer shop located at 1 Au Trieu Street, just behind the St. Joseph Cathedral of Hanoi. Indulge in the diverse beer flavors, ranging from Jasmine IPA to dragon fruits, infused with local tastes. Additionally, they offer delicious snacks. This is an excellent suggestion for a romantic and enjoyable date.
Address: 1 Au Trieu Street, Hoan Kiem
Opening hours: Every day from 11 AM – 11 PM.
Serein Cafe
A fantastic coffee shop and bar perfect for couples. It provides a stunning view of the Long Bien Bridge. It can get a bit hot here during noon time, but it’s an ideal spot to observe the street. I really enjoy the view and the yellow light that illuminates the iconic Long Bien Bridge.
Try the famous Egg Coffee at Dinh Cafe
Hanoi is renowned for its coffee culture, offering a wide range of options throughout the city. We highly recommend trying the famous egg coffee at Dinh Cafe, conveniently located near Hoan Kiem Lake. While visiting, you can observe the friendly owners preparing the coffee and enjoy the cozy atmosphere together.
Address: 13 Dinh Tien Hoang (2nd floor)
Price: 25,000 VND
What are some romantic restaurants in Hanoi?
- La Badiane Hanoi: This award-winning restaurant combines traditional French cuisine with Vietnamese flavors. The restaurant is set in a cozy courtyard with a glass roof, creating a romantic and elegant ambiance. Savor dishes such as duck breast with honey and spices, grilled scallops with mango and ginger, and chocolate fondant with passion fruit.
- La Verticale Hanoi: This fine-dining restaurant is housed in a French colonial-style villa and offers a fusion of French and Vietnamese cuisine using local ingredients and spices. Try dishes such as foie gras terrine with star anise, roasted pigeon with cinnamon, and caramelized pineapple with coconut ice cream.
- Duong’s Restaurant & Cooking Class: This popular restaurant serves authentic Vietnamese cuisine and also offers cooking classes for those who want to learn more about the local food culture. Enjoy dishes such as spring rolls, pho, bun cha, and banh xeo while learning how to make them yourself.
- Skyline Restaurant: This rooftop restaurant offers a panoramic view of the city skyline and Hoan Kiem Lake. You can enjoy international cuisine such as pizza, pasta, steak, and seafood, as well as live music and cocktails at the Skyline Bar.
- Comet Restaurant: This cozy and chic restaurant specializes in Mediterranean cuisine, with candlelit tables and soft music. Try dishes such as lamb chops with mint sauce, grilled salmon with lemon butter, and tiramisu.
Romantic Hotels in Hanoi
- Hanoi Tirant Hotel: This 5-star hotel is located close to the ornate 11th-century Bach Ma Temple. The hotel offers 24-hour security service, housekeeping, ironing, and car rental. The rooms are spacious and elegant, with modern amenities and city views. You can also enjoy the rooftop pool, spa, and restaurant that serves Vietnamese and international cuisine.
- Hanoi Pearl Hotel: This 4.5-star hotel is located near the legendary Hoan Kiem Lake and features plush amenities, spacious accommodations, and impeccable service. The rooms are cozy and stylish, with wooden floors, large windows, and comfortable beds. You can also relax at the spa, fitness center, or bar that offers live music.
- La Sinfonía Majesty Hotel and Spa: This 4-star hotel is located in the center of Hanoi, just 100 meters from Thang Long Water Puppet Theater. The hotel has a terrace, restaurant, and bar. The rooms are modern and chic, with colorful accents, flat-screen TVs, and minibars. You can also enjoy the concierge service, tour desk, and airport transfers.
FAQ for Couple’s Trip to Hanoi
If you’re planning a romantic getaway to Hanoi, you may have some questions about the city and what to expect. Here are some frequently asked questions to help you plan your trip:
Q: What is the best time of year to visit Hanoi for couples?
A: The best time to visit Hanoi for couples is from September to November or from March to April. During these months, the weather is mild and pleasant, and the city is less crowded than during peak tourist season.
Q: What should I pack for a couple’s trip to Hanoi?
A: You should pack comfortable walking shoes, lightweight clothing for warm weather, a light jacket or sweater for cool evenings, sunscreen, insect repellent, and a travel adapter. You may also want to bring a camera, a hat, and a small backpack for day trips.
We hope this FAQ has answered some of your questions and helped you plan your romantic getaway to Hanoi. Have a wonderful trip!
If you’re a food lover visiting Hanoi for the first time, we recommend taking the Hanoi food walking tour and The Hidden Hanoi Old Quarter Experience. For vegans and vegetarians, the Vegetarian Street Food & Stories of Hanoi is an excellent choice. If you’re a history buff or looking for a unique experience in Hanoi, consider the Stories from Vietnam War at not-to-go-alone areas tour. Note that 20% of the proceeds go to charity organizations.
For those who love coffee and history, the Coffee, History, and Architecture of the French Quarter tour is a must. Lastly, if you’re visiting Hanoi on a hot or rainy day, the Escape the Heat of Hanoi – Museum Experience is a great option.
