Best Sunset Spots in Hanoi

I have been covering Vietnam from the forests of Mekong Delta to the foggy mountains of Sapa and have seen countless sunsets. But there’s something uniquely enchanting about a Hanoi sunset.

The city’s blend of French-colonial charm, bustling streets, and serene lakes creates a golden hour that feels like poetry.

Why Hanoi’s Sunsets Are Special

Hanoi’s sunsets aren’t just about the sky as they’re a sensory experience. The city’s low-rise skyline, dotted with lakes and ancient temples, lets the sun paint the horizon in fiery oranges and pinks. Unlike coastal destinations, Hanoi’s sunsets are framed by urban energy and quiet moments of reflection. Locals often pause their day to watch the sky, and after one evening here, you’ll understand why.

Best Spots to Watch the Sunset in Hanoi

1. Long Bien Bridge: History Meets Golden Hour

This century-old iron bridge, a symbol of Hanoi’s resilience, offers unobstructed views of the Red River and distant mountains. Arrive 30 minutes before sunset to stroll the pedestrian walkway (watch out for motorbikes!).

Pro tip: Bring a zoom lens to capture trains rumbling below as the sky turns peach. Someone I met on a walking tour of Hanoi swears this spot feels “like stepping into a postcard.”

2. West Lake (Ho Tay): Serenity in the City

Hanoi’s largest lake, West Lake, is a local favorite for sunset picnics. Head to Tran Quoc Pagoda - Vietnam’s oldest Buddhist temple - for a surreal backdrop. For a chill vibe, grab a coconut coffee at Cong Caphe (their lakeside branch has hammocks!) and watch fishermen rowing home.

3. Hoan Kiem Lake: Heartbeat of Hanoi

The iconic Turtle Tower glows amber at dusk here. While the lake gets crowded, sneak to the quieter Ngoc Son Temple side.

Fun fact: Legends have it that the lake’s turtles bring luck so try your luck I guess!

4. Rooftop Bars: Sky-High Views

• Top of Hanoi (Lotte Center, 65th floor): Pricey but panoramic. Happy hour starts at 4:30 PM—perfect for golden hour cocktails.

• Hero Club Restaurant & Bar: Affordable with a retro vibe. Their balcony overlooks the Old Quarter’s maze of streets. I spent at least a couple hours there, if my memory serves me right, while having a local Vietnamese wine. I would rate it as the top 5 memories I had from Hanoi. Yes it was that good and yet that simple experience!

When to Go: Timing & Seasons

• November–March: Dry season = crisp, clear skies. Winter sunsets are softer, often with a pinkish hue.

• April–October: Hot and humid. Rainy days can mean moody, cloud-streaked sunsets (great for photographers!).

• Golden Hour: Varies from 5:00 PM (winter) to 6:30 PM (summer). Use apps like Sun Surveyor for precision.

Sunset Photography Tips for Hanoi

1. Embrace the Chaos: Include scooters and street vendors in your shots for authentic Hanoi vibes.

2. Use Reflections: Hoan Kiem Lake still waters double the magic.

3. Avoid Crowds: Weekdays > weekends. Locals flock to lakes on Saturdays.

4. Gear Up: A tripod helps in low light, but pack light as Hanoi’s streets are busy!

Beyond the Sunset: Pair Your Evening With…

1. Night Markets & Street Food

After sunset, dive into Dong Xuan Market for bun cha (grilled pork noodles) or Ta Hien Street for beer.
Bun Cha Huong Lien (Obama’s favorite spot!) is just a 10-minute walk from Hoan Kiem Lake.

2. Cyclo Rides Through the Old Quarter

Negotiate a 30-minute ride (≈150,000 VND ~ $6) to see lantern-lit streets and French architecture.

3. Water Puppet Shows

Catch a traditional show at Thang Long Theatre is a quirky cultural gem. Shows start at 6:30 PM, so plan around sunset.

Local Secrets

• Hidden Gem: Nhat Tan Flower Village (West Lake’s north edge). Few tourists, endless sunflower fields. What more do you want in life if not for this simplicity.
  One more, Quang Phu Cau village for the colorful incense fields (go there super early in morning to avoid instagram crowds!)

• Avoid Scams: Sunset boat rides on Hoan Kiem are overpriced. Stick to lakeside walks. Research about best restaurants of Hanoi which do not have bad reviews on google beforehand.

• Dress Warm: Winter evenings get chilly (down to 15°C) so layer up!