Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam, is a beautiful destination that has gained popularity in recent years. Though the city has always been well-known, it is now turning into a digital nomad hotspot and offering a range of modern amenities.
Nomads from all over the world have been compelled by its pleasant weather, affordable cost of living, charm, and much more. However, there is so much more to this city than meets the eye.
Let’s delve into this subject and explore what it’s like to live in Hanoi as a digital nomad.
Where is Hanoi located?
Located in northern Vietnam, Hanoi is the capital city of this beautiful country. It lies on the western banks of the Red River and is 100 km inland west of the coast of the South China Sea.
Fact: Did you know that Hanoi is the second largest city in Vietnam and is home to over four million people?
Why Choose Hanoi as a Digital Nomad? Pros and Cons
If you are thinking about shifting to one of the most ancient capitals of the world, make sure to evaluate some basic pros and cons. Since no place is perfect, you can expect to see some flaws. Let’s delve into this subject and see whether Hanoi is a suitable and right place for you.
Pros | Cons |
Affordable cost of living | Crowded |
High-speed internet | Low education quality |
Safe | Humidity |
Delicious Vietnamese food | Language barriers |
Vibrant atmosphere | |
French architecture | |
Good healthcare | |
Friendly people |
However, please make sure to note that Hanoi’s political condition isn’t that good. There is little to no freedom of speech in the city and democracy isn’t that strong either. While the city is safe for women, it is extremely hostile towards lgbtq+ members.
Hanoi is not the most family-friendly place but you can enjoy a lot of advantages as a solo traveler. Make sure to consider these factors before making a decision.
How to Get to Hanoi?
Hanoi caters to international flights on a daily basis. Here’s how you can get to the city.
By Air
The best way of getting to Hanoi from abroad is via air travel. This form of travel is not only comfortable but efficient as well. You can get connecting flights or a direct flight to Vietnam depending on personal preference, availability, and costs. You can land at the Noi Ban International Airport which caters to both domestic and international flights. This is the nearest airport, located 21.5 km away from the city center.
By Train
You can also get to Hanoi by train but this option is only viable in certain circumstances. If you are in nearby regions such as Ho Chi Minh City, you can easily get on a train and enter Hanoi. Train travel is one of the most comfortable and fun ways of traveling.
While air travel is most suitable when you are flying in from abroad. There are various options when you are traveling to or from nearby cities. Buses and boats cover short distances as well.
Transportation and How to Get Around Hanoi?
Once you have entered the city, there are plenty of good ways of getting around.
Bikes
Bikes are one of the most common and efficient forms of transport in the city. You can either hire a motorbike or purchase one to drive on your own. Bike rentals are easily accessible, widely available, and affordable in the city. Additionally, Vietnam also has national motorbike taxi systems such as Xe om. Since they operate like taxis, you can call one with a driver and get around.
Taxis
In addition to bikes, car taxis are also available in the city. You can get local taxis from the main streets but reputable services such as Grab are much more recommended. Grab can help you avoid language barriers and safety issues at a great rate. While car taxis are a great option, the high traffic makes the journey long and tedious.
Buses
You can also opt for public transport and travel via public buses. Hanoi has a reliable and well-connected bus network that can take you almost anywhere in the city. Bus travel is reliable, safe, and affordable as well. However, do note that buses tend to be overcrowded.
3 Best Accommodation Options in Hanoi
There are plenty of good accommodation options in the city! Once you narrow down what you’re looking for in a neighborhood, house hunting will be extremely easy.
Tay Ho
In addition to being very popular, Tay Ho is undoubtedly one of the best neighborhoods in all of Hanoi. Digital nomads can have a great time here thanks to the easy access to facilities. This area accommodates a wide range of markets, restaurants, industrial businesses, and boutiques. The apartments are built with modern architecture and western amenities.
Nam Tu Liem District
Nam Tu Liem District is the epitome of the ultimate urban area. This relatively newer neighborhood is high-end, vibrant, and extremely inviting. It is one of the cheapest neighborhoods in the city. There are plenty of cafes and restaurants to keep you entertained but it’s a 30-minute ride away from places like Tay Ho.
Ba Dinh
Ba Dinh, also known as the French Quarter, is a great place if you are looking for a sophisticated lifestyle. This neighborhood is home to a lot of government buildings and the streets are lined with museums and embassies. You’ll come to appreciate the stunning French architecture during your time here and find it quite refreshing.
Internet Connectivity in Hanoi
When it comes to internet connectivity in Hanoi, remote workers don’t need to worry at all. The city has a high internet speed and 50+ Mbps is easily available. Hanoi has an average internet speed of 70 Mbps which is pretty great for remote work. The city’s reliable internet, great connectivity, and high-speed wifi make it more desirable to digital nomads.
If you want extra reliability, you can always buy a local SIM card upon arrival and opt for mobile data. However, note that there are a lot of good providers in the city so make sure to compare data packages beforehand.
A lot of cafes, co-working spaces, and local restaurants offer free wifi as well. You can certainly maintain a good work-life balance and access fast connections to meet deadlines.
E sim
If you don’t like the hassle of a physical SIM card, then consider opting for Esims. They are a reliable and efficient alternative.
Make sure to compare these data packages before you make a decision.
Holafly
Data Package | Availability | Price |
unlimited | 7 days | 29$ |
unlimited | 10 days | 37$ |
unlimited | 15 days | 51$ |
unlimited | 20 days | 62$ |
unlimited | 30 days | 75$ |
Airalo
Data package | Availability | Price |
1 GB | 7 days | 4.50$ |
2 GB | 15 days | 7.00$ |
3 GB | 30 days | 9.50$ |
5 GB | 30 days | 13.00$ |
10 GB | 30 days | 21.00$ |
3 Best Places to Work from in Hanoi
The good news for remote workers is that Hanoi has a wide variety of coworking spaces. You can easily find a good spot and maintain a healthy work-life balance. Here are some of the best options.
HanoiHub
HanoiHub is one of the great coworking spaces in Hanoi. With a professional staff and comfortable seating arrangement, this coworking space makes a workday a lot easier. You can also enjoy a nice cup of tea or coffee with a fast internet connection. They provide various facilities including but not limited to communal spaces, mini-library, and private offices.
Toong
Toong is undoubtedly one of the best coworking spaces in the city. This place is usually crawling with digital nomads but don’t worry, there is plenty of room for everyone. They have 5 branches, located all over the city and each is well-equipped. There is high-speed Internet available on the premises along with numerous desks and office spaces. Their contemporary architecture also attracts remote workers.
Cafes
For those of you who prefer working from a cafe rather than coworking spaces, Hanoi has got you covered. Since this city has a big coffee culture, you can expect to find numerous coffee shops for work. Rest assured, each has comfortable seating and reliable internet.
Cost of Living in Hanoi
One of the main reasons for Hanoi’s growing popularity is its low cost of living. If you are looking for a budget-friendly digital nomad destination in Southeast Asia, then this city is a great option. Hanoi is just as great as some other major cities but it happens to be a lot more affordable. Here is a rough breakdown of average day-to-day prices here.
Meal at a restaurant | 2.08$ |
Beer | 0.88$ |
Cappuccino | 1.77$ |
Local Transport | 0.31$ |
Internet | 10.25$ |
Utilities | 60.00$ |
Rent (One-bedroom apartment in the city center) | 339.34$ |
As you can see, Hanoi is not all that expensive. You can live here on a tight budget and make the best out of your time. However, please note that the cost of living is defined by an individual’s spending pattern and lifestyle. If you follow a standard digital nomad lifestyle, you’ll find these estimates to be quite accurate.
Culture, Nature, and Food in Hanoi
Vietnamese culture is an intricate mixture of several cultures including but not limited to Chinese, Indian, cham, and Khmer influences. The diversity in the local culture makes it even more unique and distinct. Digital nomads from all over the world will feel right at home in Hanoi and find familiarity in one part or another. The friendly locals celebrate this vibrant culture through various traditions, festivals, ceremonies, and cultural events. Vietnam is a cultural tapestry and Hanoi is no different.
Hanoi is nothing short of a haven for nature lovers. There are a bunch of stunning hiking trails, Green spaces, green areas, and parks located all over this great city. Other than that, you’ll be sure to find the lush greenery quite refreshing!
Vietnamese food is not only delicious but cheap as well. Believe it or not, you can get a full meal for under 2$(1.86€)! Vietnam street food is especially popular and some must-try dishes are rice paddies, pho soup, nam cake, and pork rolls. Furthermore, there is an abundance of the best restaurants and coffee shops in the city so you can always find delicious Vietnamese cuisine.
Best Time to Visit Hanoi
As per popular opinion, the best time to visit Hanoi is in autumn. The summer months can experience high humidity which is not the most suitable weather conditions in an overcrowded city. If you want to explore the city to its very best and have a pleasant time, consider visiting between August and October. You can also engage in a range of outdoor activities during this time.
12 Best Things to Do in Hanoi
Despite being somewhat unpopular, Hanoi has a lot to offer. You can engage in a range of activities and have a great time. Either way, make sure to do these 12 best things.
1. Enjoy a city tour
Hanoi is a city that has a lot to offer. If you happen to find yourself in this mesmerizing place, take advantage of the situation and explore it properly! We recommend you take one of the many guided tours and learn more about the place. Walking tours are also recommended because you get a chance to learn essential details.
2. Go hiking
If you are looking for a fun outdoor activity, consider going hiking and spending some time in refreshing nature. Since this city is mountainous, there are plenty of good hiking spots in the west of the city. You can go to the following:
- West Lake Loop
- Hoàn Kiếm Lake Loop
- Hàm Lợn Loop
- Hàm Lon South Loop
- Ham Lon Mountain Fire Road
- Hàm Lợn Peak
- Hồ Đồng Đò Loop
Hiking also allows you to see beautiful and scenic views once you have reached the top.
3. Take a food tour
Hanoi has a foodie culture and the only way to experience the best of it is by joining a food tour. You can meet other foodies, interact with people, and enjoy amazing local cuisine all at the same time. While it is possible to explore the best food on your own, a professional guide will make it so much more interesting and easier.
4. Visit the art galleries.
Whether you are an art enthusiast or not, make sure to visit the popular art galleries in Hanoi. This city is a creative hub filled with unique talent and innovation! You can visit the art galleries to appreciate art, support artists, and see some of the best exhibitions. Here are some great options:
- Green Palm Gallery
- Nguyen Art Gallery in Hanoi
- Vincom Center for Contemporary Art (VCCA)
- Manzi
- DOCLAB
- Hanoi studio gallery
- Institut Français de Hanoï
- Mai Gallery
5. Visit the museums
If you want to learn about Hanoi’s rich history, make sure to visit the historical sites and museums in the city. They are a great way to appreciate the heritage and understand the city. Some of the best options include:
- Ho Chi Minh Museum in Hanoi
- B-52 Victory Museum
- Hanoi Museum
- Vietnamese Military History Museum
- Vietnamese National Museum
- Hoa Lo Prison Museum (Hanoi Hilton)
6. Attend the cultural festivals
For those of you who want to experience Hanoi’s rich culture to its very core, attend the local events and participate in the cultural festivities and community events. This city houses friendly locals and welcoming people who make you feel right at home. You can blend in with them at such events. Some of the best ones include the following.
- Giong Festival
- Perfume Pagoda Festival in Hanoi
- Co Loa Citadel Festival in Hanoi
- Dong Da Festival
- Thay Pagoda Festival in Hanoi
- Bat Trang Pottery Village Festival in Hanoi
- Vong La Festival
7. Visit the markets
Hanoi’s markets are popular tourist areas and something else entirely. With a bustling environment and colorful aura, the local markets are simply vibrant. Some markets offer delicious street food, fresh produce, and clothing while others are known for their architecture. The popular options include the Dong Xuan Market, Hanoi Weekend Night Market, Hang Da Market, Cho Hom Market, and Quang Ba Flower Market.
8. Enjoy the nightlife
Hanoi is somewhat famous for its vibrant nightlife so make sure to enjoy that during your time here! You can find amazing bars, tons of nightlife activities, and live music venues in this city. Vietnam’s bustling environment and cultural diversity make nightlife so much more interesting. Make sure to visit popular spots such as Ta Hien Street (Beer Street), nightclubs, pubs, and rooftop bars.
9. Go cafe hopping
Another great thing to do in Hanoi is go cafe hopping. Almost every Digital Nomad and remote worker has a special inclination and liking towards coffee shops. You’ll be happy to learn that this city houses tons of them. The cafe culture is pretty big around here and offers a variety of options.
- Hidden Gem Coffee
- Café Dinh
- Loading T Café
- Kone Café
- Atelier Coffee
- Ca Phe Duy Tri
10. Go bar hopping
An interesting thing to do in Hanoi is go bar hopping. There are tons of good cocktail bars, wine bars, and breweries in the city and each offers a good experience. For a fun night out, consider visiting them and enjoying the lively environment!
11. Connect with the digital nomad community.
One of the best things you can do in any destination is to connect with fellow nomads. They can provide a sense of community and companionship, making your trip much more fulfilling. You can meet digital nomads the old-school way (at coworking spaces and cafes) or you can also join WhatsApp groups or Facebook groups.
12. Take a day trip
When you are done exploring the popular destinations in Hanoi, take advantage of your convenient location and visit nearby cities. There is no doubt that Vietnam is a stunning country that has a lot to offer. Hence, consider taking a day trip and exploring as much of it as you can. You can go to Ha Long Bay, Ninh Binh, or nearby cities.
Is Hanoi safe?
Vietnam ranks 45th out of all the countries in safety terms which means the safety is above average. You’d be glad to know that Hanoi is a very safe place for international visitors and tourists. The city has a low crime rate and the local Vietnamese people are friendly as well. Hanoi is also a secure place for women, children, and minorities. You can surely walk alone at night without any major fear.
However, as a traveler in a foreign country, you are always recommended to stay on guard. Make sure to take necessary precautions and remain alert at all times. If you encounter any crime or even danger of potential criminal activity, notify the relevant authorities as soon as possible.
As safe as it is, digital nomads in a foreign country are recommended to follow some general safety tips.
- Look out for tourist scams.
- Trust reputable companies
- Stay away from isolated areas
- Stay on your guard
- Stay away from shady neighborhoods
- Don’t carry large amounts of cash on hand
- Don’t carry flashy items
Visa Requirements in Hanoi
Even though Vietnam doesn’t have a digital nomad visa as of yet, alternative options such as tourist visas and e-visa are just as good.
Apart from that, Vietnam has an easy visa policy that varies based on an individual’s nationality and citizenship. Most countries are allowed visa-free entry for 15-30 days upon arrival and others can get visa-on-arrival for the same duration. You’ll need the following documents for a visa-on-arrival in Hanoi.
Here are the visa requirements:
- Passport
- Vietnam visa digital nomad application form
- Proof of visa-fee payment
- Visa approval letter
- The enter and exit form
- Passport size photos
However, if you plan on staying for a longer period in the city then a pre-approved visa would be required. You can also extend your 30-day visa from local embassies within the country. A Vietnam embassy or consulate can best guide you on the application process and visa options.
Conclusion
The city of Hanoi is an excellent digital nomad destination that allows people to discover and explore a balanced lifestyle. The affordable cost of living and high quality of life make it a perfect place for remote workers who wish to enjoy a higher standard of living.
Hanoi is also a great place because of its rich culture, pleasant weather, and natural beauty. You can join the growing digital nomad community or expat community here and settle down for a long period of time.
We hope this article helped you understand the digital nomad lifestyle in this beautiful city. If you have any further questions, feel free to contact us and we’d be happy to help.
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