Introduction to Hanoi
Hanoi, the millennia-old Capital of Vietnam, holds a special place in our hearts. Not only is it a major cultural, economic, and political center, but it also captivates travelers from all over the world with its unique charm and rich history.
Hanoi's climate falls within the tropical monsoon zone, distinctly divided into 4 seasons: spring, summer, autumn, and winter. As one of the cities representing the characteristic climate of the Northern region, Hanoi experiences hot, humid summers with abundant rainfall and cold, dry winters with little rain.

Hoan Kiem Lake - Hanoi
Weather outlook for Hanoi in November
Traveling to Hanoi in November means you've chosen the perfect time to visit this magnificent capital city. Hanoi's weather in November marks the transition between autumn and winter, with mild, sunny days. The average temperature in Hanoi during November ranges from 18 to 24 degrees Celsius. Days are pleasantly warm with gentle sunlight, while mornings and evenings may be slightly chilly. It's an ideal time to plan your trip to Hanoi with friends and family.
Visiting Hanoi in November, it's advisable to pack some long-sleeved shirts and jackets to experience the cool atmosphere here. Additionally, bring moisturizer as it's essential for this month. Hanoi's weather in November features mild, gentle sunlight, not as intense as summer, but it can still dry out your skin, causing discomfort for many. Be sure to prepare various moisturizers for your comfort while exploring the capital!
>> Read more: 'When is the best time to visit Hanoi?'
Where to go when traveling to Hanoi in November?
Hoan Kiem Lake (Sword Lake) - Old Quarter Walking Street
Hoan Kiem Lake, also known as Sword Lake, and the Old Quarter Walking Street are the heart of Hanoi. Embedded in Vietnamese historical legends, Hoan Kiem Lake is where King Le Loi returned the sacred sword to the Turtle Deity, giving rise to its name. Covering approximately 12 hectares, Hoan Kiem Lake lies in the heart of the capital and is a favorite destination for tourists. Beyond strolling along the lake's banks to admire the scenery, Hoan Kiem Lake is a focal point for numerous cultural events and activities that embody Hanoi's cultural richness.
Every weekend evening, the area around Hoan Kiem Lake transforms into a pedestrian street bustling with various interactive activities such as performing arts, street art, folk games, Hanoi cuisine, or simply a place for families and young people in Hanoi to relax. The vicinity of the Old Quarter Walking Street is also home to numerous conveniently located Hanoi hotels for accommodation and sightseeing.

Old Quarter Walking Street bustling with activity every weekend
Hanoi's Old Quarter
Hanoi is renowned for its 36 streets and guilds, collectively known as the Old Quarter, where the ancient charm of the capital city has been preserved for over 1000 years. Since the Ly - Tran dynasty, this Old Quarter has been a bustling hub of activity and commerce among the city's residents. The 36 streets and guilds, including Hang Ma, Hang Than, Hang Manh, Hang Buom, Hang Bong, and many others, are now among the must-visit attractions in Hanoi.
These streets are still predominantly engaged in traditional trade corresponding to their names, while some have shifted to more modern businesses. Traveling to Hanoi in November and exploring the 36 streets and guilds offers a unique experience amidst the bustling atmosphere of the capital. Moreover, the antique beauty of the Old Quarter amidst the modern cityscape is sure to captivate visitors who love Hanoi.

Hanoi's Old Quarter on an autumn afternoon (@guinoiaythanhxuan)
Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum - Imperial Citadel of Thang Long
The Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum is the final resting place of President Ho Chi Minh, the beloved father figure of the nation. Situated in Ba Dinh Square, where he proclaimed Vietnam's independence, it holds immense significance for the people of Hanoi and the entire nation. Visitors can explore the Mausoleum, One Pillar Pagoda, Ho Chi Minh Museum, and other prominent landmarks in Hanoi, all of which are highlights of popular Hanoi tours.
Adjacent to the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and Ba Dinh Square is the Imperial Citadel of Thang Long, a historical site preserving the ancient capital's legacy. Today, it is a fascinating tourist attraction and a popular spot for Hanoi's students to capture their graduation memories, especially during the gentle sunlight of November, an ideal time for meaningful photoshoots.

Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum (@viet.nammycountry)
West Lake
West Lake is exceptionally beautiful on chilly November days in Hanoi, offering a serene escape from the bustling city. Visiting West Lake, you not only relax in its refreshing atmosphere but also stroll around the lake, passing by Tay Ho Temple, West Lake Water Park, and ancient villages. Since ancient times, West Lake has been a leisure destination for kings and nobles. Today, it still retains its pristine beauty, making it one of Hanoi's must-visit tourist spots.

West Lake in the late afternoon (@thlinggg_01)
What to eat when traveling to Hanoi in November?
- Hanoi's famous Pho is a must-try when visiting the capital. As the soul of Hanoi's cuisine, Pho is the most beloved dish among tourists. On the world culinary map, Hanoi Pho has its own name, 'Pho,' a title that cannot be replaced by any other language. Hanoi Pho features a rich, flavorful broth made from simmering bones with herbs like star anise, cinnamon, and coriander, along with onions and ginger, creating a distinct and unforgettable taste. Pho Bat Dan (49 Bat Dan), Pho Ly Quoc Su (10 Ly Quoc Su), Pho Thin (13 Lo Duc), are some of the best places to enjoy delicious Pho in Hanoi.

Hanoi Pho represents the essence of Vietnamese cuisine (@natalikieu)
- Besides Pho, Hanoi is also famous for Bun Cha, a dish praised by former US President Obama. Bun Cha Hanoi is often compared to grilled meat vermicelli in the Central and Southern regions, but in Hanoi, Bun Cha always has its own distinct flavor. The fragrant, well-marinated grilled meat pieces, served with vermicelli, fresh herbs, and sweet-sour dipping sauce, are a familiar breakfast choice for Hanoians. Where to enjoy delicious Bun Cha in Hanoi? Try Bun Cha Huong Lien at 24 Le Van Huu, Hai Ba Trung; Bun Cha Cua Dong at 41 Cua Dong, Bun Cha 34 Hang Than,.. are reputable Bun Cha eateries in Hanoi.
- Bun Thang is one of Hanoi's beloved specialties, especially delightful on cool days. Authentic Hanoi Bun Thang features a meticulously prepared broth with a subtle shrimp flavor, served with lean pork sausage, chicken, eggs, dried shrimp, and a touch of herbs like perilla leaves and coriander, all finely sliced or chopped and beautifully arranged on top of the vermicelli. To savor delicious Bun Thang in Hanoi, note down Bun Thang Ba Duc at 48 Cau Go, Bun Thang 29 Hang Hanh, Bun Thang Ngoc Tuyen at 58 Dao Tan,.. are renowned Bun Thang spots serving authentic flavors in the capital.
- In addition to the aforementioned Hanoi specialties, Mytour suggests some other delectable dishes like Five-Spice Rolled Pho, West Lake Shrimp Cake, Honey Glazed Fried Cake at Hang Chieu Street, Deep-Fried Dough Sticks at Quan Thanh Temple,... all are irresistible delicacies that attract many locals and tourists alike. Moreover, when it comes to Hanoi's souvenirs, don't miss out on Com cake, Hong Lam preserved fruits, sausage cakes, Hanoi's preserved dracontomelon fruits, lotus seed sweet soup,... are the November specialties of Hanoi that you shouldn't overlook.
Travel Tips for Hanoi in November
- When traveling to Hanoi in November, it's advisable to bring 1-2 moderately thick jackets to adapt to the weather. Additionally, some tourist destinations in Hanoi such as Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, Temple of Literature require proper attire, so it's recommended to pack at least one formal and modest outfit to avoid any inconvenience during your visit.
- A small travel tip for Hanoi is to avoid going out during peak hours as the streets tend to be very crowded during these times.
- If you're a traveler from afar visiting Hanoi, it's helpful to learn a bit about the local language in Hanoi and the Northern region in general to prevent misunderstandings or language differences during communication. For example, in Hanoi, a cup for drinking tea is called a 'chén' (while in the South it's understood as a bowl for rice), a plastic bag for carrying items is called a 'túi' (but in the South, it's referred to as 'cái bịch' or 'cách bịch'), so please take note!
Traveling to Hanoi in November offers many fascinating experiences, doesn't it? Quickly plan your trip to experience how wonderful the autumn atmosphere is in November weather in Hanoi! Don't forget to book your flight tickets to Hanoi on Mytour to always get the best prices. Wishing you a meaningful journey.
Thao Chi
Image source: Instagram, Internet