Hanoi is Vietnam’s vibrant capital. It’s also one of its main travel hubs (most visitors start or end their journey here).
While I didn’t love my first trip to Vietnam, the country is one of the most affordable in the region, full of amazing restaurants and stunning natural beauty. It’s also easy to navigate and has a well-trodden hiking trail that runs north to south.
But because Hanoi is part of the main route through Southeast Asia, hostels are teeming. I mean, there are tons of them here. And not all of them are the same.
To help you choose a hostel from all the overwhelming options, here’s my list of the best hostels in Hanoi!
If you don’t want to read the longer list, the following are the best in each category:
1. The One Hostel
This is a lively, energetic hostel. There are events every night, including live music and DJ nights, so there’s always something fun happening where you can easily meet other travelers. There’s a rooftop pool and bar, as well as a restaurant. I like that you get a wristband when you check in so you can book food and drinks to your room (instead of carrying cash). I also appreciate that they close at midnight so you can still juggle partying and sleeping. There’s a delicious free breakfast (with vegetarian options) every morning to help with hangovers.
The dorms are spacious and all bunks have their own fans (a huge plus since Hanoi gets hot), as well as curtains, USB chargers, and comfortable mattresses. I especially like that the top bunks have angled ladders that are almost like stairs, making it easy to get into the bunk. There are also female-only dorms. And while the water pressure in the showers isn’t great, everything is clean and the volunteers here really make you feel welcome.
2. Old Quarter View
Located in the heart of the Old Quarter, one of the best parts of the city, this hostel has a colorful, chic design. Although it looks more like a hotel than a hostel, it’s still quite social. Rooms are clean and spacious, with plenty of natural light thanks to floor-to-ceiling windows (some even have small balconies). Dorm beds have thick mattresses, privacy curtains, lockers, and reading lights. The upper bunk beds have stairs instead of ladders, and the hostel also has air conditioning (a huge plus).
While there’s no party vibe here, the hostel encourages travelers to hang out during the daily happy hour with free beer, the free walking tours, and a weekly cooking class (which isn’t free, but it’s super cheap and you’ll learn a lot!). There’s also a great breakfast that’s really affordable (only 50,000 VND). Overall, this is a more upscale choice for travelers looking for something within walking distance of all the major attractions.
3. Hanoi Central Backpackers Hostel
This is a lively hostel. There’s a party every night – but it only goes until about 11pm, so you can still get a good night’s sleep. There’s a small movie room here, but what I love most are the many free extras, including breakfast, beer during happy hour, walking tours, and a nightly pub crawl. On top of that, it’s also one of the cheaper hostels on this list. You get a lot for your money here!
The dorms aren’t huge and look a bit dated, but the beds have curtains, individual lights and outlets, and lockers. The mattresses are also pretty comfortable compared to most party hostels. But the highlight for me is the outdoor patio area. It’s a nice place to relax with a drink after a long day of exploring.
4. Hanoi Buffalo Hostel
This is a super cheap hostel in the Old Quarter that has a cozy outdoor lounge area with a pool, perfect for relaxing after a long day of sightseeing. The staff also organizes tours to all the major attractions nearby, like Ha Long Bay and Sapa. The best part, though, is that you get a lot of free perks here, including free breakfast, free beer during happy hour, free pub crawls, and free walking tours.
The rooms are nothing fancy (the bathrooms are a bit tight and the bunk beds in the dorms are basic), but the beds have curtains, lights, power outlets, and lockers. The staff here more than makes up for the downsides, though. They really go out of their way to make sure you have a good stay—they’re attentive and resolve any issues immediately.
5. Mad Monkey
Mad Monkey is one of the biggest and best hostel chains out there. Their accommodations are always social, and this one is no exception. It’s a lively party place with a bar that offers free drinks every night during happy hour. There are also always events going on, from DJ nights to pub crawls to drag parties. There’s also a restaurant that serves delicious dishes. However, since the hostel is right in the old town, you’re just minutes away from some of the best restaurants in town.
The dorms aren’t huge and the mattresses are a bit thin, but that’s normal for party hostels. However, I appreciate that the beds have curtains and there are also lights, power outlets, and lockers for each bed. The hostel also has air conditioning, which is a must since it gets so hot here. The bathrooms are always clean and the showers have decent pressure. If you want to party, stay here.
6. The Drift Backpackers Hostel
This is a relaxed, laid-back hostel. The entire place is painted in soft, calming pastels and there’s a lovely terrace with views of the old town and the cathedral. There’s a free buffet breakfast (with an extensive selection including fresh fruits, breads, vegetables, noodles, coffee and tea), pets are welcome and the hostel has free WiFi and air conditioning.
The dorms are spacious, bright and clean. I like that the mattresses are thick and the beds also have individual lights, sockets, lockers and curtains. There are also female-only dorms as well as double beds for couples. The bathrooms aren’t particularly fancy but they are clean and big enough. Plus, each dorm has its own bathroom. Overall, it’s a great hostel for travelers looking for a peaceful stay.
As a hub for backpackers, expats and foodies, Hanoi is a must-see on any trip through Southeast Asia. Not only is it super affordable, but there’s a ton to see and do here. Just stay in any of the hostels above and you’ll have a fun, affordable and beautiful place to stay!
