Exploring the districts in Hanoi is an essential part of any Hanoi travel tour. Immersing yourself in the rich cultural heritage, wandering through the vibrant markets, and the savoring delicious street food here will surely be an unforgettable experience for every traveler visiting Hanoi.
1. How many districts are there in Hanoi?
Hanoi is currently divided into 12 urban districts, 17 rural districts, and 1 town, making a total of 30 administrative units. This makes Hanoi the city with the highest number of administrative units in Vietnam.
- Urban districts in Hanoi include: Hoang Mai, Long Bien, Thanh Xuan, Bac Tu Liem, Ba Dinh, Cau Giay, Dong Da, Hai Ba Trung, Hoan Kiem, Ha Dong, Tay Ho, Nam Tu Liem
- Rural districts in Hanoi include: Dan Phuong, Gia Lam, Dong Anh, Chuong My, Hoai Duc, Ba Vi, My Duc, Phuc Tho, Thach That, Quoc Oai, Thanh Tri, Thuong Tin, Thanh Oai, Phu Xuyen, Soc Son, Me Linh, Ung Hoa
- Town: Son Tay
Read more: Hanoi things to do: An A-Z guide for the trip to the capital
2. Notable districts in Hanoi to add to your bucket list
2.1. Ba Dinh District
Ba Dinh District has a crucial position in Hanoi. It used to be the location of Thang Long Imperial Citadel and is now the center of national administration and politics. Ba Dinh District covers an area of 9.3 square kilometers, with an estimated population of around 271,200 and a density of 29,000 people per square kilometer.
With many historical relics and landmarks, Ba Dinh District will undoubtedly offer abundant unforgettable experiences for visitors exploring the districts in Hanoi. Some famous tourist attractions in Hanoi, such as Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, Ba Dinh Square, One Pillar Pagoda, Truc Bach Lake, Thang Long Imperial Citadel, etc., are in Ba Dinh District.
2.2. Hoan Kiem District – among the best districts in Hanoi for sightseeing
When it comes to the most recommended districts in Hanoi to visit, one cannot overlook Hoan Kiem District. As the smallest district in the city with an area of 5.29 square kilometers and a population of approximately 188,000, Hoan Kiem District is the commercial center of Hanoi, where important cultural events frequently take place.
Besides, Hoan Kiem District is a place where the essence of Hanoi’s cultural heritage and historical traditions converge. Within the district, there are nearly 170 historical and cultural relics, including Hoan Kiem Lake, St. Joseph’s Cathedral, Hanoi Old Quarter, Hanoi Opera House, Hoa Lo Prison, Vietnam National Museum of History, Long Bien Bridge, Thang Long Water Puppet Theater, and Ngoc Son Temple.
2.3. Hai Ba Trung District
Hai Ba Trung District is an important part of Hanoi, covering an area of 9.2 square kilometers and a population of 491,400. With its numerous historical sites, beautiful landscapes, and attractive amusement parks, Hai Ba Trung District will definitely make your tour around the districts in Hanoi more enjoyable. Some attractions that you should not miss out on when coming to Hai Ba Trung District include Thien Quang Lake, Thong Nhat Park, and especially VinKE & Vinpearl Aquarium.
Book VinKE & Vinpearl Aquarium tickets now
2.4. Tay Ho District
Established in 1995, Tay Ho District in Hanoi covers an area of approximately 24 square kilometers with a population of 164,710. This is one of the most famous districts in Hanoi, known for its delectable cuisine and vibrant nightlife. Tay Ho District also attracts visitors with its peaceful and gentle attractions, such as West Lake, Phu Tay Ho, Nhat Tan Peach Blossom Village, Tran Quoc Pagoda, Quan Thanh Temple, and Nghi Tam Flower Village.
2.5. Dong Da District
Dong Da is one of the four central districts in Hanoi. This district covers an area of nearly 10 square kilometers with a population of about 457,600. As one of the most thriving districts in Hanoi, Dong Da District still retains the traditional beauty of the past. Visiting Dong Da District, don’t miss the opportunity to explore attractive landmarks such as the Temple of Literature and Dong Da Mound.
2.6. Cau Giay District
Cau Giay District spans an area of 12 square kilometers, with a population of around 189,400 and a density of approximately 5,783 people per square kilometer. This district is renowned for its civilized and elegant lifestyle imbued with the identity of Hanoi.
Cau Giay District boasts numerous captivating tourist attractions, among which the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology stands out. As the largest museum in Hanoi, it offers a profound and captivating insight into the diverse cultures of Vietnam’s 54 ethnic groups.
Enjoy Hanoi cuisine when coming to this thousand-year-old land!
2.7. Thanh Xuan District
Thanh Xuan District is an indispensable name on the list of districts in Hanoi to visit. Established in 1996, this district spans an area of 9.17 square kilometers, with approximately 294,000 residents. Thanh Xuan District, known for its rapid economic development, is also a place that preserves many cultural and historical values of Vietnam. Some enjoyable places to visit in this district are Vincom Center for Contemporary Art, Thanh Xuan Park, Khuong Trung Pagoda, and Trill Rooftop Cafe & Bistro.
2.8. Long Bien District
Located along the banks of the Red River, this is the largest inner district in Hanoi, with an area of approximately 61 square kilometers and a population of 322,549. Here, there are many historical and cultural relics imbued with patriotic traditions. These are priceless spiritual heritages that have been preserved and promoted for generations, such as Phuc Xa Pagoda or Tu Dinh Ancient Village.
2.9. Soc Son District
Located 25 kilometers north of the city center, Soc Son is one of the largest districts in Hanoi, covering an area of 306 square kilometers, with a population of approximately 316,600. Soc Son is also home to Noi Bai International Airport, the largest airport in the Northern region of Vietnam.
Coming to Soc Son District, visitors can explore many historical and spiritual sites, as well as beautiful and serene ecological areas like Dong Quan Lake, Ham Lon Mountain, Non Nuoc Pagoda, and Thuy Huong Temple.
2.10. Ba Vi District
Ba Vi is a semi-mountainous district in Hanoi, with a total area of 424 square kilometers, a population of around 282,600 and a density of 660 people per square kilometer. It boasts a rich ecosystem and diverse vegetation, considered the “green lung” of Hanoi. Coming to Ba Vi District, you should not miss out on Ba Vi National Park, an ideal destination for those who love fresh air and the wild majestic scenery of forests and mountains.
In addition to Hanoi, Vietnam offers countless other beautiful destinations to explore, such as Phu Quoc, Nha Trang, Hoi An, and Da Nang. Visiting these places, consider staying at the hotels and resorts of Vinpearl. Renowned as one of the leading hospitality brands in Vietnam, Vinpearl offers top-notch accommodations and internationally-standard services.
Furthermore, to make your journey in Vietnam even more exciting and create memorable moments with friends and family, consider visiting the world-class entertainment system of VinWonders. At VinWonders, you can immerse yourself in many enjoyable entertainment activities, thrilling games, and unique performances.
Book rooms in Vinpearl Phu Quoc, Vinpearl Nha Trang, Vinpearl Resort & Golf Nam Hoi An to experience world-class accommodations and services during your stay in Vietnam!
Book e-tickets to VinWonders Phu Quoc, Nha Trang, Nam Hoi An to explore a wide array of riveting activities and breathtaking sights!
Exploring the districts in Hanoi is a fun way for you to experience the vibrant atmosphere of the city and learn about the unique local culture. Hopefully, the detailed information above about the best districts in Hanoi will make your trip to Hanoi even more complete and interesting.