Le Cong
Hanoi is a bit cooler in November, but not as cold as winter. Many people enjoy the pleasant atmosphere during this time of year. To make the most of your trip, here are some recommended places to visit.
>>> Check out: Travel to Hanoi 2023 – A Complete Guide for Your First Time in Hanoi
What to do in Hanoi in November
The weather is cooler, making it a great time to explore the city without having to deal with the summer heat. However, it’s important to check the weather if you plan to travel to other parts of Vietnam from Hanoi, as there have been floods in central Vietnam in Hoi An, Da Nang, and Hue. In the city, many people are getting around by small boats.
Start your trip in the Old Quarter, where you can enjoy some banh mi and Vietnamese coffee for breakfast. Then head to the St. Joseph Cathedral of Hanoi, keeping in mind that it can be busier on weekends. Take a walk around Hoan Kiem Lake, and if you’re up for it, you can even go for a run. Some guests have mentioned that waking up early at 5 AM allows for a nice walk, where you can see Vietnamese elderlies engaging in activities like dancing and practicing tai chi.
Visit the famous French Quarter, and don’t forget to try the Trang Tien ice cream before seeing the iconic Hanoi Opera House and the Metropole Hotel, where the Vietnamese chef named Giang invented the famous egg coffee.
→ Read more: Hanoi French Quarter – 21 Best Things to Do
Hang Ma Street is famous for its Christmas decorations, and it’s a great place to soak in the festive atmosphere. Many young Vietnamese visit and take fun and exciting photos here.
Where to try the best Vietnamese food?
Looking for a place to have lunch? The famous Bun Cha Obama is located near the French Quarter, but we also have a list of the best Vietnamese restaurants for you to choose from. If you’re vegan or vegetarian, we’ve also selected the best vegan restaurants recommended by locals. And of course, it’s always a great idea to enjoy a bowl of hot Pho while enjoying the pleasant weather. Bun cha is another popular dish you can try.
For history lovers
A visit to the Temple of Literature is a great way to learn about the country’s long history. If you’re interested in learning more about the Vietnam War, we recommend joining the local experience called “Stories from the Vietnam War.” This experience will take you to hidden gems in Hanoi and share stories about what it was like to live in Vietnam during the war, as well as how the locals and veterans dealt with the challenging conditions.
Events
November is a month of events in Hanoi, offering many opportunities for you to participate. If you’re only staying in Hanoi for a few days, you can join the music events held on weekends around Hoan Kiem Lake. If you’re a fan of running or marathons, you’re in luck! There are many marathon events held around the lake and Long Bien area. Just remember to register in advance, as these events are often fully booked.
Hanoi also organizes a very interesting event called the Hanoi Creative Design Festival from November 17 to November 26. It takes place at the Hanoi Railway Station, goes through Long Bien Bridge (a symbolic Red River crossing), and ends at the Gia Lam Railway Station, where participants will walk to the former Gia Lam Train Factory. Our team had the opportunity to join this event, and it was a great way to learn more about the city’s history.
We hope you have a delightful trip to Hanoi during this season. If it is your first time here, it’s best to have a local expert show you around the city. Join us for the French Quarter Experience if you love coffee, colonial buildings, and history. If you’re a food lover (and who isn’t?), please join us for the Hanoi Food walking tour or the vegan food tour. And if you’re interested in exploring the hidden parts of Hanoi and hearing stories from the Vietnam War, join us for the Cho Gioi area tour.
Is it cold in Hanoi during winter?
Hanoi experiences its coldest weather in January, with an average temperature of 15°C. In February, the average temperature rises to around 16°C, and in November, it reaches approximately 20.5°C. December has an average temperature of 18°C in Hanoi. It is advisable to prepare a raincoat, umbrella, or hat to be ready for the varying weather conditions.
