Hanoi, Vietnam Photography and Travel Guide

Photography and Wandering in Hanoi

Where to Photograph

Long Bien Bridge

One of my favorite places to photograph in Hanoi. Go at sunrise or sunset for the best light. Walk across the bridge or take the steps down underneath and follow the tracks. If you are lucky, a train will pass through while you are there.

Dong Xuan Market

Grab a coffee nearby and wander. It is not about shopping, it is about observing. The layers of activity, textures, and light make it one of the most visually interesting places in the city.

Hoan Kiem Lake

A must visit. Go early in the morning when locals are out exercising and socializing. On weekends the roads close and the atmosphere changes completely. The light through the trees at sunrise is worth it.

West Lake Walk

One of the few places in Hanoi where you can walk without constantly navigating traffic. Stop for coffee, explore temples, and take your time.

Coffee in Hanoi

Pho Co Coffee: Hidden down a narrow alley. Climb to the top for egg coffee and a view over Hoan Kiem Lake.

Cong Ca Phe: Order the coconut coffee. It is closer to a dessert than a drink.

Maison Marou: Come for the chocolate. Locally sourced cacao turned into some of the best chocolate in the world.

Local Food

These are places we actually go to, not just places that show up in travel guides.

• Cha Ca Thang Long: Grilled fish with herbs and noodles. Best enjoyed in the evening.
• Pho Ga Huyen Huong: Simple, clean chicken pho near Hoan Kiem Lake.
• Banh Mi Nguyen Sinh: If you come to Hanoi and do not eat banh mi, you are doing it wrong.
• Cha Ruoi: A more adventurous dish. Sandworm omelette with herbs and citrus peel.

Where to Stay

Capella Hanoi: A bold, design driven hotel in a great location. Fun, unique, and very photogenic.

Sofitel Metropole: Classic Hanoi. Stay in the old wing if you can.

Apricot Hotel: Right across from Hoan Kiem Lake with a strong Vietnamese art collection.

Practical Advice

Use the Grab app for getting around. Hanoi is very safe, but stay aware of your belongings in busy areas. When crossing the street, walk slowly and consistently. Hanoi is incredible for street photography, but be respectful. People are generally more reserved than in Saigon, so read the situation before shooting.

This guide is based on how I actually live and work in Hanoi. It is not a checklist, it is a starting point. If you found this helpful, feel free to tag @askmott and share your experience.