The Best Luxury Hotels in Hanoi
Hanoi isn’t necessarily the first place you’d think of when looking for luxury hotels, but the benefit of the backpacker favourite is its affordability.
Nestled alongside cool hostels are stunning high-end hotels you’d expect to pay thousands for in Europe – and they’re probably well within your budget in the Vietnamese capital. Get to know the local art scene and colonial buildings with our pick of the best high-end stays, bookable on Culture Trip.
The Oriental Jade Hotel
Hotel
Blending classic Asian and modern design, this hotel is one of the city’s most sophisticated spots. But while the swanky suites impress, the rooftop pool is the crowning glory. This sublime swimming spot is snuggled next to Sixteen Sky Bar, which is a top spot to swing a sundowner. A few storeys below, Thang Long Signature Restaurant spruces up classic Vietnamese staples with an extensive menu that has something to suit all tastes. Don’t put off a treatment at O’Spa Lotus: using natural ingredients coming from different parts of Vietnam, they are some of the most exclusive in the Old Quarter.
Peridot Grand Hotel and Spa by AIRA
Luxury, Spa Hotel
Escape the frenetic energy of the Old Quarter in this jewel box of a place, where rooms are dressed with rich colours and the finest of materials, from marble to mahogany. This property packs a large selection of suites, some with their own living rooms and freestanding tubs. Don’t miss a session at their Peridot Spa before you indulge in a candlelit dinner at Olivine, their rooftop restaurant overlooking the hotel’s infinity pool and the Hanoi skyline below.
Shining Central Hotel and Spa
Luxury, Spa Hotel
Set behind a regal gate and a hall with vintage tiles to match, this central property seduces with its large, modern rooms that make perfect use of the original architecture. Push the boat out by booking the king suite, which comes complete with a round bed, a large balcony overlooking the city and a jacuzzi. Injections of ebony and deep red furnishings help set a romantic vibe. Further your state of relaxation with a pampering session at the smart spa.
Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi
Hotel, Chain Hotel
Housed within a white-washed colonial-style property dating from 1901, this luxe hotel wraps its wings around manicured gardens and a large outdoor pool. The colonial theme continues through to the 364 rooms and suites, with classical interiors and high ceilings making for an attractive mix. The list of amenities also promises to impress, with a pool, gym, three restaurants and several bars to explore. La Terrasse, a curbside Parisian-inspired café, is a real treat and a great spot for people-watching, with a live saxophonist on certain evenings.
Grande Collection Hotel and Spa
Luxury, Spa Hotel
Enter a world of suffused tones and dimly lit chandeliers at the Grande Collection Hotel & Spa. Every room has a different vibe; some boast four-poster beds and exquisite balconies from which to take in the best views of the Old Quarter. You’ll love the personalised service and the sumptuous buffet breakfast, where trays are stacked with the best of local and continental cuisine.
La Siesta Classic Ma May
Spa Hotel
A panoramic view of Hoan Kiem Lake, the defining feature in this ancient city, is among the benefits of this bijou hotel that has been converted from an historic Hanoi building. The black-and-white interior creates a lavish atmosphere, and the La Spa is arguably one of the best places in Hanoi for a massage, if you fancy treating yourself. Which you should.
Pan Pacific Hanoi
Hotel
They really love a rooftop bar in Vietnam, and Pan Pacific’s offering is up there with the very best. You’re going to want to escape the lavish surroundings at some point, though, since you’re in prime position for sightseeing – Trấn Quốc Pagoda, the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum Complex and One Pillar Pagoda are all close by and well worth escaping the luxury for.
Lotte Hotel Hanoi
Hotel
Service is often key in Vietnam, and the staff are truly impeccable at the Lotte. However, there’s more than one reason to opt for this luxe hotel – and food is a key factor. In total, there are seven different restaurants and bars on the property, with all except one run by Michelin-star executive chef Ingo Möller. Expect perfect local cuisine, delicious Western offerings and the highest open-air sky bar and restaurant in the city.
Hotel de l'Opera
Hotel
The city’s French influence is prevalent in the stately exterior of the grand(e) building, but the inside of Hotel de L’Opera is far from colonial. An Instagram dream, expect pink velvet touches throughout, L’Occitane toiletries and plenty of mirrors for the perfect selfie. Don’t miss the nearby tourist hotspots, which include the Opera House and the Vietnam Women’s Museum.
Meliá Ba Vi Mountain Retreat
Hotel
Looking for something a little different? This eco-friendly resort is just the ticket. Located 49km (30mi) from the airport, it’s not the option for those seeking busy city lights, but it certainly has its own sightseeing benefits: Khu Du Lich Khoang Xanh Waterfall, Lang Van Hoa Dan Toc ethnic cultural village and hiking trails are all on the doorstep. Don’t forget your camera – the Ba Vi National Park surroundings make for some seriously stunning views.
Apricot Hotel
Hotel
Expect a bizarre-but-it-works mix of old and new at the Apricot Hotel. Along with the lavish marble interior and chandeliers, there are more than 600 works of contemporary Asian art and a rooftop pool that’s almost worth booking a room for on its own. Depending on your preference, you can opt for different styles of room, from modern apartments to traditional garden suites – but with a whole lot of marble throughout.
InterContinental Hanoi Westlake
Hotel
You’re undoubtedly already familiar with the InterContinental brand, but this stunning hotel is too incredible not to mention. Upgrade yourself to an overwater room, and it’s almost like having your own Maldives bungalow – with a much more affordable price tag. Oh, and don’t forget to check out the Sunset Bar, set on its own island in the lake and accessible via a romantic torch-lit bridge.
Marco Ferrarese contributed additional reporting to this article.