Hanoi is about to come into one of my favorite times of the year: autumn.
The hot summer days slowly become more comfortable, the mornings feel cooler, and the city takes on a different atmosphere. For me, autumn is probably the most beautiful season to visit Hanoi.
If you are planning a trip to Hanoi around September and October, here are some of my favorite places and experiences to enjoy.
1. Temple of Literature
The Temple of Literature is one of the best places to start if you want to understand Hanoi beyond its busy streets.
The complex is filled with old trees, peaceful courtyards and a lovely lake. It was Vietnam’s first national university and is closely connected with the country’s history of education and Confucian culture.
Did you know?
The Temple of Literature was Vietnam’s first national university, founded in 1070. For centuries, it was where Vietnam’s scholars came to study, and today it remains one of Hanoi’s most peaceful historical spots.
Autumn is a particularly nice time to visit because you can take your time walking around without the intense summer heat.
Entrance fee: around 70,000 VND per person.
2. Hoan Kiem Lake
Hoan Kiem Lake is the heart of Hanoi.
This year, there are quite a few construction sites around the lake, so if you want a quieter and more atmospheric walk, I recommend starting from Bao Khanh Street, perhaps with a famous Thuy Ta ice cream in your hand.
But here’s my favorite tip: wake up a little earlier.
Around 6:00 AM, local people are already walking, exercising, stretching and enjoying the fresh morning air around the lake. The atmosphere is completely different from the busy daytime Hanoi.
>> Hanoi: The 12K Historic Morning Route
Then come back around 8:00 PM.
In the evening, the area becomes lively again, with many locals gathering around the lake. You might even see people dancing and exercising together.
There is no entrance fee to walk around Hoan Kiem Lake.
Thuy Ta ice cream: roughly 20,000–50,000 VND, depending on what you order.
3. Hanoi Old Quarter
You cannot really visit Hanoi without getting lost in the Old Quarter.
The area is famous for its historic 36 streets, each traditionally associated with different crafts and products.
But for me, the best way to experience the Old Quarter is simply to walk.
Follow the smell of grilled meat, hear the sound of motorbikes, stop for a bowl of noodles, try a small local snack, and watch everyday Hanoi life happening around you.
Autumn makes this even more enjoyable because walking around is much more comfortable than during the hot summer months.
And, of course, come hungry.
A typical local meal can cost around 40,000–100,000 VND, while street food and snacks can be even cheaper.
4. Coffee Shops: A Must in Hanoi ☕
If there is one thing you should do in Hanoi during autumn, it is sit in a coffee shop and watch the city go by.
Hanoi has a huge coffee culture, and every café seems to have its own personality.
For a vintage atmosphere and a great place to feel the old Hanoi vibe, I highly recommend Loading T.
If you enjoy beautiful decorations and want to see where many young locals like to hang out, check out Ban Cong Cafe.
And if you prefer somewhere quieter and you love art and creative spaces, Lam Cafe is worth visiting.
Vietnamese coffee is also very affordable compared with many other destinations.
Expect to pay around 30,000–70,000 VND for a coffee at many local cafés, although specialty cafés can cost more.
5. Hang Ma Street & the Mid Autumn Festival 🏮
If you happen to visit Hanoi around the Mid Autumn Festival, don’t miss Hang Ma Street.
The street becomes filled with colorful lanterns, traditional decorations, toys and festive displays.
It is especially beautiful in the evening when the lights come on and local families come out to enjoy the atmosphere.
This is one of those places where you don’t necessarily need a plan. Just walk slowly, take some photos and enjoy the energy of Hanoi during the festival.
The best part? It’s free to explore.
How Much Should You Budget for These Experiences?
One of the great things about Hanoi is that you can experience a lot without spending a fortune.
For these activities, a rough budget would be:
Temple of Literature: ~70,000 VND
Hoan Kiem Lake: Free
Ice cream: ~20,000–50,000 VND
Old Quarter: Free to explore
Coffee: ~30,000–70,000 VND
Hang Ma Street: Free
So you can easily spend a wonderful autumn day exploring Hanoi for well under 300,000 VND, excluding your meals and transportation.
And if you want to experience Hanoi through its food, stories and hidden local places, you can also join one of our Hanoi food tours and vegan food tours. We love showing travelers the side of Hanoi that you might not find by simply following a map.
Autumn is coming. Come walk Hanoi with us. 🍂☕🏮
