In the prestigious ranking of the 50 best cities in the world in 2025 announced by the prestigious travel magazine Time Out, the capital of Vietnam, Hanoi, has excellently won the 21st position. This is great news for the people of Hanoi in particular and Vietnam in general, affirming the increasing attraction of the thousand-year-old capital on the world tourism map.
Affordability, proximity to nature and the engagement of local people were key criteria in this year's survey, according to Grace Beard, travel editor of Time Out.
The capital Hanoi, with its thousands of years of history and ancient beauty, has just been honored by the prestigious travel magazine Time Out (UK).
Notably, Hanoi is the only representative of Vietnam on this list, surpassing many other major cities in the world. Hanoi is described as "a place with a relatively mild climate with four distinct seasons, the cradle of Vietnamese culture". Besides, the capital of a thousand years of civilization is also known as the land that produces outstanding talents, poets, artists, and thinkers who have contributed to the glory of Vietnamese culture.
The image of Hanoi with its ancient streets, clear blue lakes, ancient pagodas and delicious street food has become a symbol of the country. The temperate climate with four distinct seasons has created favorable conditions for Hanoi to develop a diverse and rich culture. Each season, Hanoi puts on a unique beauty, from the brilliant peach blossoms in spring to the romantic yellow leaves falling in autumn.
Walking around Hanoi’s Old Quarter, visitors seem to be lost in a colorful culinary world. The seductive aroma of charcoal grilled meat emanating from bun cha shops on Hang Quat Street, mixed with the fragrant smell of pho broth from pho noodle shops on Hang Trong Street, creates a unique culinary symphony. The sizzling sound of grilled meat, the billowing smoke, along with the lively conversations of vendors and diners paint a vivid picture of the daily life of Hanoians.
This is great news for Hanoi people in particular and Vietnam in general, affirming the increasingly prominent position of the capital on the world tourism map.
Around Hoan Kiem Lake, the heart of Hanoi, visitors have the opportunity to admire the massive and ancient architectural works such as the Opera House, the Cathedral, the Turtle Tower... These works are not only historical symbols but also must-see destinations when coming to Hanoi. Besides, visitors can also find peaceful corners with small cafes hidden in narrow alleys, where they can sip a cup of delicious egg coffee and watch the daily life of Hanoians.
Not only that, Hanoi is also the economic, political and cultural center of the whole country. The harmonious blend of ancient and modern features has created a special attraction, attracting tourists to explore and experience.
Time Out believes that one of the important events attracting tourists to Hanoi in 2025 is Vietnam's celebration of the 50th anniversary of national reunification, promising many attractive activities and festivals.
In addition, according to a survey by Time Out, Hanoi is also the 4th cheapest city on the list, with 89% of respondents saying the amount they have to spend on a cup of coffee or a movie here is very reasonable.
