The Drift Backpackers Hostel

A culture-rich city and the capital of Vietnam, Hanoi is known for stunning traditional architecture and adventure for travellers from all around the world. From temple exploring to beach hopping, Hanoi has something for every backpacker.

Hostels in Hanoi offer a variety of atmospheres, from party-focused hostels to the more chilled out digs, private rooms to dorm rooms and traditional decor to modern designs. For finding the perfect hostel for your adventure, check out our guide to best hostels in Hanoi. Most Hanoi hostels offer free Wi-Fi and plenty serve their guests free breakfast to help you save even more money. If you’re after a party vibe, look for a Hanoi hostel with a buzzing bar and fantastic happy hour deals. Many even serve free beer for an hour every night!

Those looking to enjoy the vibrant nightlife and stay in the main backpacker’s neighbourhood should choose a hostel in the Old Quarter. This is where the majority of our Hanoi hostels are, so you’re guaranteed a fun vibe. It also has the best (and cheapest) bars and clubs, plus more restaurants and street food than you could possibly choose from! Those looking for a bit more relaxation can choose to stay around West Lake, a nearby neighbourhood with a totally different vibe – think more coffee shops and nature walks than pub crawls and mopeds.

Hanoi is rich with culture and history. Those looking to dive into Hanoi’s past will be spoilt for choice with options including the National Museum of Vietnamese History. Not to mention a variety of temples to visit such as the Bach Ma Temple, located in the Old Quarter and is known as the oldest temple in the city. If you’re after a bit of adventure, take a trip up the Lotte Observation Deck (for the best city views), experience a Full Moon Festival or explore the nearby stunning, Halong Bay. A trip to Hanoi wouldn’t be complete without watching a traditional water puppet show where puppets dance on, you guessed it, water.

Travelling around Hanoi is made easier due to a lot of attractions such as shopping and restaurants being located close to one another. You’ll see the locals whizzing past you on motorbikes and while this is the preferred travel style for them, there are a few options for travellers. A quick and inexpensive way to ‘live like a local’ is via Motorcycle Taxi, however, they aren’t fitted with meters like regular taxis. If motorbikes aren’t your thing, wave down a taxi and hop in. There are local buses that cover the majority of the famous attractions and are easily spotted painted in red, white and yellow.