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In the prestigious ranking of the 50 best cities in the world in 2025, published by the renowned travel magazine Time Out, Vietnam's capital, Hanoi, impressively secured the 21st position. This is great news for the people of Hanoi in particular and Vietnam in general, affirming the increasing attractiveness of the thousand-year-old capital on the world tourism map.
According to Grace Beard, travel editor at Time Out, affordability, harmony with nature, and engagement with local people were key criteria in this year's survey.
Hanoi, the capital city with its rich history spanning thousands of years and ancient beauty, has just been honored by the prestigious travel magazine Time Out (UK).
Notably, Hanoi is the only Vietnamese representative on this list, surpassing many other major cities around the world. Hanoi is described as "a place with a relatively mild climate and four distinct seasons, the cradle of Vietnamese culture." Furthermore, the thousand-year-old capital is known as the birthplace of 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 temples, and delicious street food has become a symbol of the country. The mild climate with four distinct seasons has created favorable conditions for Hanoi to develop a diverse and rich culture. Each season, Hanoi takes on a unique beauty, from the vibrant pink of cherry blossoms in spring to the romantic falling golden leaves in autumn.
Strolling through Hanoi's Old Quarter, visitors feel as if they've entered a vibrant culinary world. The alluring aroma of charcoal-grilled meat emanating from the bun cha (grilled pork with vermicelli) stalls on Hang Quat Street blends with the fragrant broth of pho (Vietnamese noodle soup) from the pho restaurants on Hang Trong Street, creating a unique culinary symphony. The sizzling of the grilled meat, the billowing smoke, and the lively conversations between vendors and diners paint a vivid picture of daily life in Hanoi.
This is great news for the people of Hanoi 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 magnificent and ancient architectural structures such as the Grand Opera House, the Grand Cathedral, and the Turtle Tower... These structures are not only historical symbols but also must-see destinations when visiting Hanoi. Besides these, visitors can also find peaceful little corners with charming small cafes hidden in narrow alleys, where they can sip a delicious cup of egg coffee and observe the daily life of Hanoians.
Moreover, Hanoi is also the economic, political, and cultural center of the country. The harmonious blend of ancient and modern features creates a special appeal, attracting tourists to explore and experience it.
Time Out suggests that one of the key events attracting tourists to Hanoi in 2025 is Vietnam's celebration of the 50th anniversary of national reunification, promising many exciting activities and festivals.
Additionally, according to a Time Out survey, Hanoi is also the fourth cheapest city on the list, with 89% of respondents saying that the amount they spend on a cup of coffee or a movie night there is very reasonable.
