Boutique hotels in Hanoi's Old Quarter place you within walking distance of Hoan Kiem Lake, the Night Market, and Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre. Expect compact, design-led rooms, many with spa facilities, on-site restaurants, and free Wi-Fi. Budget for roughly $50-$150 per night for a double room, while heritage icons like Sofitel Legend Metropole command premium rates starting near $300.
For first-time visitors, the Old Quarter itself is the best base-its narrow streets house street food stalls, cafes, and landmarks like St. Joseph's Cathedral and Hoa Lo Prison Museum. Top-rated choices include La Nueva Boutique Hotel Hanoi & Spa (Superb, 93) with a fitness center and bar, Hong Ngoc Dynastie Boutique Hotel & Spa (Fabulous, 89) offering a restaurant and spa, and Oriental Suites Hotel & Spa (Fabulous, 86) steps from Hoan Kiem Lake. Book early for the best rates, and consider airport shuttle services-many hotels provide them for an extra fee.