Hanoi, Vietnam Photography and Travel Guide

Photography and Wandering in Hanoi

Long Biên 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.

Đồng Xuân 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.

Hoàn Kiếm 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. You do not need to do the full loop. Stop for coffee, explore temples, and take your time.

Private Photography Workshop

I offer private workshops in Hanoi for individuals and small groups. You can spend a day or more exploring the city with me while learning how I approach photography on assignment.

Coffee in Hanoi

Phố Cổ Coffee

Hidden down a narrow alley. Climb to the top for egg coffee and a view over Hoàn Kiếm Lake. Worth it for both the experience and the setting.

Cộng Cà Phê

You will see these all over the city. Order the coconut coffee. It is closer to a dessert than a drink and perfect in the heat.

Maison Marou

You come here for the chocolate. Locally sourced cacao turned into some of the best chocolate in the world. A great place to pick up gifts.

Industrial Room

Not essential, but if you are into design this place is worth a visit. A mix of furniture studio and café with strong industrial aesthetics.

Local Food (From Quỳnh Anh)

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

Chả Cá Thăng Long

A Hanoi classic. Grilled fish with herbs and noodles. Best enjoyed in the evening with a cold beer.

Phở Gà Huyền Hương

Simple, clean chicken phở near Hoàn Kiếm Lake. Eat, then walk around the lake. That is the experience.

Bánh Mì Nguyên Sinh

If you come to Hanoi and do not eat bánh mì, you are doing it wrong. This is one of our go to spots.

Chả Rươi

A more adventurous dish. Sandworm omelette with herbs and citrus peel. Unique and very Hanoi.

Chè Bà Thìn

Classic Vietnamese dessert. Hot in the winter, cold in the summer. Always good.

Where to Stay in Hanoi

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. After a long day, sit by the pool and slow down.

Apricot Hotel

Right across from Hoàn Kiếm Lake with a strong Vietnamese art collection and one of the best locations in the city.

Side Trips from Hanoi

Sapa

Still worth visiting, but avoid the crowded town center. Stay outside the city for a better experience. Topas Eco Lodge is one of my favorite places in Vietnam.

Ba Vì

If you want something closer to Hanoi, Ba Vì is an easy escape. Quiet, green, and far less crowded than more popular destinations.

Shopping and Local Finds

Justin Mott Photography

If you are looking for prints, I offer a selection of my work online with shipping to the USA and Canada. Studio visits in Hanoi are by appointment.

Workroom Four

A well curated gallery and design space with unique pieces you will not find elsewhere.

Kilomet 109

A Vietnamese fashion brand using locally sourced textiles. A mix of traditional techniques and modern design.

Practical Advice

Getting Around

Use the Grab app. It is the easiest and most reliable way to get around Hanoi. Bike taxis are often the fastest and most fun.

Safety

Hanoi is very safe, but stay aware of your belongings in busy areas.

Crossing the Street

Walk slowly and consistently. Do not stop suddenly. Traffic flows around you.

Tipping

Not expected, but appreciated in some situations. Use your judgment.

Photography

Hanoi is incredible for street photography, but be respectful. People are generally more reserved than in Saigon, so read the situation before shooting.

Final Thoughts

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.