All You Need to Know for a Perfect Trip to Hanoi at the Beginning of the Year (Part 1)

Hanoi’s weather 

As the new year begins, January marks the coldest month in Hanoi. Average temperatures hover around 15°C but can dip below 10°C during cold snaps. The weather is often damp, with overcast skies and persistent drizzle. The chill from the northern winds adds a biting edge to the air.

Packing essentials: Bring warm clothing, including thick coats, scarves, gloves, and woolen hats, to stay cozy. Don't forget waterproof shoes and an umbrella to easily tackle the persistent drizzle.

>> Read more: Tips for booking hotels when traveling to Hanoi

Despite the chilly weather, Hanoi in January remains a captivating destination for tourists. The city comes alive with the festive spirit of Tet preparations, offering a warm and inviting atmosphere. Streets adorned with vibrant pink peach blossoms and the iconic green bánh chưng beautifully embody the energy and joy of the Lunar New Year, providing a striking and heartwarming contrast to the winter cold.

Must-visit attractions

Hoan Kiem lake

Hoan Kiem Lake, a symbol of Hanoi, seamlessly combines ancient charm with modern vibrancy. In early January, it becomes a vibrant venue for cultural, tourism, and sporting events. If you're in Hanoi during this time, take a moment to explore the lake and experience the city’s festive spirit during the Lunar New Year.

Hanoi’s Old Quarter

The Old Quarter is an unmissable treasure for anyone visiting Hanoi - offers a glimpse into the cultural heritage and daily life of the locals while serving as a culinary haven. From pho and bun ca to chả cá La Vong and bun thang, the flavors here are legendary.

Temple of Literature – Quoc Tu Giam

A visit to the Temple of Literature in early spring lets you immerse yourself in traditional Tet activities like calligraphy displays and vibrant cultural performances. As a revered spiritual site, it attracts visitors seeking blessings for luck, success in studies, and career advancement.

Tran Quoc pagoda

Tran Quoc Pagoda is also a must-visit, particularly in January. This historic temple attracts visitors from near and far, who come to seek blessings of peace, health, and prosperity for themselves and their loved ones as they welcome the new year.

Nghi Tam Flower Garden

A stroll through Nghi Tam flower garden treats you to a kaleidoscope of colors as flowers like daisies, roses, lilies, and dahlias bloom vibrantly. It’s a perfect spot for photography enthusiasts looking to capture nature’s beauty.

Nhat Tan Peach Garden

Renowned as Hanoi’s peach blossom paradise, Nhat Tan peach gardens come alive during the Lunar New Year. Locals flock here dressed in áo dài, carrying lanterns and calligraphy scrolls to capture the essence of spring in festive photos. It’s an unmissable experience for January travelers.

>> Read more: 7 hidden gems you may not know about Hanoi

Culinary delights 

Hanoi Pho

Known as the birthplace of pho, Hanoi takes pride in its steaming bowls of this iconic dish. A warm bowl of beef or chicken pho on a chilly January morning is pure comfort food, available everywhere from roadside stalls to upscale restaurants.

Thanh Tri rolled cakes

Thanh Tri rolled cakes as we call banh cuon Thanh Tri - These delicate rice rolls filled with minced pork and wood ear mushrooms, served with pickled cucumbers and fried shallots, are a quintessential Hanoi breakfast. Pair them with a cup of hot tea for a hearty start to your day.

Sticky rice with mung beans 

Soft, fragrant sticky rice topped with ground mung beans and crispy shallots makes xoi xeo a beloved winter breakfast. It’s flavorful, nutritious, and budget-friendly, ideal for a quick bite before sightseeing.

Cha ca La Vong

This iconic dish showcases turmeric-marinated fish, delicately cooked with dill and aromatic herbs, served with vermicelli and a side of shrimp paste. A true Hanoi specialty, it is both a flavorful and historic culinary experience.

Egg coffee

A trip to Hanoi in January isn’t complete without a cup of egg coffee—a creamy blend of whipped egg yolk, coffee, and condensed milk. Best savored at the legendary Giang Cafe, it’s the ultimate treat to cozy up with on a chilly winter day.

>> Read more: Why Hanoi captivates international visitors?

Wil’que has curated these highlights to inspire your perfect January getaway in Hanoi. Start planning your itinerary today and get ready for an unforgettable spring adventure in the enchanting capital of Vietnam!

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