What to Do at Night in Hanoi

Hanoi is not world famous for its nightlife and some visitors find it outright staid but there are some places worth checking out and - as everywhere - it's all out there if you look for it.

Perhaps the most prolific side to Hanoi's after-work activities is its many beer bars selling 'bia hoi (fresh beer) where a glass costs a fraction of what it would in the west. One famous travel guide claims that US$10 will buy you (and hopefully your friends) 100 beers!

Once again, the Old Quarter of the city is the place to be for night moves.

Where and What to Eat in Hanoi

With a city plan almost tailor-made for exploring, Hanoi will keep you busy for days on end. From the main thoroughfares to the maze of back alleys there's something to see around every corner.

There are several walking tours to join and they seem like a good idea as only those with a working knowledge of Hanoi's layout should venture out alone.

For the athletically minded fitness clubs abound along with Golf and Hash House Harriers running opportunities.

Club Opera: Vietnamese

Across from the Sofitel Metropole, this classic bistro serves delicious Vietnamese food. The atmosphere is a retro French mansion with lots of cozy romantic nooks and candlelight. Club Opera has stir-fries and hot-pot specials, as well as grilled chicken in lemon grass and rich fried squid.
Address: 59 Ly Thai To Street.

With a city plan almost tailor-made for exploring, Hanoi will keep you busy for days on end. From the main thoroughfares to the maze of back alleys there's something to see around every corner.

There are several walking tours to join and they seem like a good idea as only those with a working knowledge of Hanoi's layout should venture out alone.

For the athletically minded fitness clubs abound along with Golf and Hash House Harriers running opportunities.

Sports

Fitness Clubs Pretty

much any top-end hotel will have a fitness club but will charge non-guests for use. Expect to pay in the region of $15-20 for a full day use.

If you're a culture vulture Hanoi has so much to offer. With a 1,000-year history and many well-preserved buildings along with lush and verdant parks as well as a well-appointed zoo, Hanoi will quite simply keep you busy for days on end.

One of the loveliest features to this French-colonial city is its many lakes and these provide many beautiful locations to rest in between venturing out in the capital's streets.

Hanoi Landmarks

One Pillar Pagoda

First constructed in 1049 and built on a single stone pillar just over a metre in diameter, this wooden structure was