Hanoi, the vibrant capital of Vietnam, offers an endless array of photo opportunities. From historic architecture to serene lakes, Hanoi’s charm is in its blend of ancient traditions and modern living. Here are some of the best locations in Hanoi for capturing memorable shots.

Old Quarter

Capturing the Essence of Hanoi’s History

The Old Quarter, also known as Pho Co, is one of the most iconic spots in Hanoi. This area, with its maze of narrow streets, old shophouses, and vibrant street life, provides countless opportunities to capture Hanoi’s soul. Early mornings are ideal here; the streets are quieter, and the light is perfect for capturing vendors setting up their stalls. Highlights include Hang Ma Street for colorful lanterns and Dong Xuan Market for local life shots.

Tips for the Old Quarter:

Time: Early morning or late afternoon for soft lighting.
Lens: Wide-angle to capture the narrow streets and bustling atmosphere.

Hanoi Train Street

A Unique Railway Experience

The Hanoi Train Street is a must-visit for photographers. This narrow street, lined with houses, sees a train pass through mere inches from doorsteps. Capture locals and tourists alike clearing the tracks moments before the train arrives—it’s an adrenaline rush to both watch and photograph! Be mindful of train schedules to ensure safety and respect for residents.

Tips for Hanoi Train Street:

The Time: Check the train schedule for precise timing.

Lens: Use a wide-angle lens to capture the street’s narrowness and depth.

West Lake (Ho Tay)

Peaceful Lakeside Shots

West Lake, or Ho Tay, offers a serene contrast to Hanoi’s busy streets. It’s an ideal spot for sunrise and sunset shots, where you can capture beautiful reflections over the water. The lake is also surrounded by temples and pagodas, such as Tran Quoc Pagoda, which adds to the diversity of subjects available.

Tips for West Lake:

• Time: Sunset for warm light and reflections.

• Lens: A prime lens works well for portraits; telephoto for distant temples.

Long Bien Bridge

Rustic Charm and Scenic Views

Built by the French during colonial times, Long Bien Bridge has a rustic charm that makes it perfect for photography. This bridge, with its rusted metal and view of the Red River, gives a sense of Hanoi’s history. Walk along the pedestrian paths to capture unique perspectives of the river, or use it as a backdrop for moody portrait shots.

Tips for Long Bien Bridge:

Time: Sunrise for soft lighting.
Lens: Wide-angle for landscape shots; a 50mm prime for portraits.

Hoan Kiem Lake

A Central Hub for Hanoi Life

Located in the heart of Hanoi, Hoan Kiem Lake is a local favorite for morning exercises, Tai Chi, and picnics. The lake’s central landmark, the Turtle Tower, is illuminated at night, making it a great subject for both daytime and night photography. Don’t miss Ngoc Son Temple on Jade Island, connected by the iconic red Huc Bridge.

Tips for Hoan Kiem Lake:

Time: Early morning for foggy, atmospheric shots or evening for night lights.
Lens: 24-70mm for versatility, capturing both wide scenes and close-ups.

St. Joseph’s Cathedral

Gothic Architecture in Hanoi

St. Joseph’s Cathedral stands out with its Gothic Revival style, reminiscent of Notre Dame in Paris. The cathedral, built in the late 19th century, is a stunning subject for architecture and street photography. Mornings are less crowded, and the light beautifully illuminates the building’s facade. Experiment with framing the cathedral using the surrounding trees and buildings for creative angles.

Tips for St. Joseph’s Cathedral:

Time: Morning for fewer crowds and softer light.
Lens: A wide-angle for full views; a 50mm for detailed shots.

Thang Long Imperial Citadel

A Glimpse into Vietnam’s History

The Thang Long Imperial Citadel, a UNESCO World Heritage site, offers a deep dive into Vietnam’s past. The citadel features ancient gates, stone artifacts, and historical buildings. The site is vast and allows for a wide range of compositions, from architectural shots to detailed close-ups.

Tips for Thang Long Imperial Citadel:

Time: Late afternoon for dramatic shadows.
Lens: A telephoto to isolate details and a wide-angle for expansive views.

Where to Stay

La Siesta Premium Hang Be Hotel

For a comfortable and centrally located stay, consider La Siesta Premium Hang Be Hotel. This boutique hotel in the Old Quarter is ideal for photographers looking to stay close to major photography spots. The hotel combines contemporary style with traditional Vietnamese charm, offering rooftop views of the Old Quarter—perfect for golden-hour shots before you start your day of exploration.

Location: Old Quarter, Hanoi - https://lasiestahotels.com/
Why stay here: Proximity to the Old Quarter, comfortable rooms, and a rooftop bar with views.
Photography Tip: Capture the view from the rooftop bar at sunrise or sunset for panoramic cityscapes.

LOTTE Hotel Hanoi

If you’re looking for a luxurious stay with stunning views over the city, LOTTE Hotel Hanoi is an excellent choice. Located in the towering LOTTE Center, this hotel offers panoramic views of Hanoi’s skyline from its sky-high rooms and rooftop bar. It’s perfect for photographers wanting to capture breathtaking cityscapes from above, especially at sunset.

Location: Ba Dinh District, Hanoi - https://www.lottehotel.com/hanoi-hotel/
Why stay here: Luxurious amenities, rooftop pool, and a high vantage point for skyline photography.
Photography Tip: Head to the rooftop at sunset for sweeping views of Hanoi’s city lights coming alive.

Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi

For a stay that exudes French colonial charm, Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi offers a historic and luxurious experience. This iconic 5-star hotel, located near Hoan Kiem Lake and the Old Quarter, is perfect for photographers who appreciate architecture and history. The hotel’s beautiful courtyard and classic interiors are ideal for atmospheric shots.

Location: Hoan Kiem District, near Hoan Kiem Lake
Why stay here: Historic French colonial architecture, elegant rooms, and proximity to major photography locations.
Photography Tip: Explore the courtyard and lobby for architectural shots, especially in the early morning when it’s quieter.

FINAL THOUGHTS

Hanoi offers photographers a rich tapestry of locations to explore. With these spots, you’ll capture not only beautiful images but also the essence of Hanoi’s charm and history. Enjoy your journey and let the city inspire your lens!

Best Photography Spots in Hanoi for Stunning Pictures