A Guide to Hanoi’s Districts: Navigating Vietnam’s Capital

30/12/2023

1. A brief introduction to districts in Hanoi

Are you wondering how many districts in Hanoi are there? Hanoi is currently divided into 30 administrative districts, including 12 urban districts and 17 rural districts, along with 1 district-level town. The city also consists of 579 commune-level administrative units, comprising 383 communes, 175 wards, and 21 towns.

These districts in Hanoi paint a vibrant picture of the city's dynamic composition. With 55% of the population residing in urban areas and the remaining 45% in rural areas, Hanoi districts map showcases the harmonious coexistence of urban development and tranquil countryside. 

1.1. List of urban districts in Hanoi

  • Ba Dinh District: 14 wards
  • Bac Tu Liem District: 13 wards
  • Cau Giay District: 8 wards
  • Dong Da District: 21 wards
  • Ha Dong District: 17 wards
  • Hai Ba Trung District: 18 wards
  • Hoan Kiem District: 18 wards
  • Hoang Mai District: 14 wards
  • Long Bien District: 14 wards
  • Nam Tu Liem District: 10 wards
  • Tay Ho District: 8 wards
  • Thanh Xuan District: 11 wards

Districts in Hanoi

Dive into the bustling energy of urban districts in Hanoi (Source: Collected)

2. Detailed information about the top 7 major districts in Hanoi

2.1. Hoan Kiem District

Among the districts in Hanoi, Hoan Kiem District is a vibrant center for politics, administration, commerce, and services. Despite its small size, this district plays a significant role in hosting important events. Therefore, it is no wonder that you will find a wide range of accommodations in Hoan Kiem District, from budget-friendly motels to upscale hotels, along with a plethora of dining options that cater to every taste, including restaurants and eateries.

Hoan Kiem District, featured on the map of Hanoi districts, is home to numerous fascinating attractions that embody Vietnam's rich history, such as Hanoi Old QuarterHoa Lo PrisonHoan Kiem LakeVietnamese Women's MuseumHanoi Opera HouseSt. Joseph's CathedralVietnam National Museum of HistoryLong Bien BridgeThang Long Water Puppet TheaterNgoc Son Temple, Ly Thai To Monument, etc.

Highlights

Hoa Lo Prison | Hoan Kiem Lake | Vietnamese Women’s Museum

Recommendations

Dessert: Trang Tien Ice Cream

Bars: Polite & Co | Ne Bar

Districts in Hanoi

Discover the essence of Hanoi as you explore the vibrant Hoan Kiem District (Source: Collected)

2.2. Ba Dinh District

As one of the prominent central districts in Hanoi, Ba Dinh District is a bustling hub where key governmental agencies gather. It showcases numerous historical landmarks, including Ba Dinh Square, Presidential PalaceHo Chi Minh's Stilt HouseHo Chi Minh MausoleumHo Chi Minh Museum, Thang Long Imperial Citadel, and One Pillar Pagoda. Other notable attractions within the district include Quan Thanh TempleTruc Bach Lake, etc. 

2.3. Tay Ho District

Nestled in the northern part of Hanoi's inner city, Tay Ho District stands out as a bustling hub for services, tourism, and cultural activities. In addition, Tay Ho District has a wealth of historical treasures, including 71 relics, such as Tran Quoc Pagoda and Phu Tay Ho. Besides the rich cultural and historical traditions, the district also boasts breathtaking landscapes like West Lake, Red River Rock Beach, etc.

Highlights

Tran Quoc Pagoda | Nhat Tan Bridge

Recommendations

Bars: Hanoi Rock City | Turtle Lake Brewing Company

Restaurant: Westlake Station

Districts in Hanoi

Experience the lakeside beauty of Tay Ho District, a real gem among dozens of districts in Hanoi (Source: Collected)

2.4. Dong Da District

Dong Da District, located in the vibrant southwest of Hanoi, showcases a tapestry of state-owned manufacturing enterprises and esteemed educational institutions, painting a vivid picture of the dynamic districts in Hanoi. Within its boundaries lie many cherished historical treasures, most notably the illustrious Temple of Literature, hailed as Vietnam's first university. 

Highlights

Temple of Literature | Lang Pagoda

Recommendations

Street food area: Chua Lang

Cafes: Yu Tang Tea House | C’est Si Bon

2.5. Hai Ba Trung District

Hai Ba Trung, one of the thriving districts in Hanoi, captivates visitors with its modernity. Tourists are drawn to the district by the allure of its two expansive parks, the serene Thong Nhat Park and the dynamic Tuoi Tre Park.

In Hai Ba Trung District, you will also discover the shopping havens of Hom Market, Mo Market, and Vincom Mega Malls. They cater to every interest, whether you want traditional or luxurious shopping experiences.

Further exploring Hai Ba Trung District, you will find other incredible attractions, including VinKE & Vinpearl Aquarium Times City

VinKE presents an interactive indoor playground that seamlessly blends high-tech games with educational activities, providing endless fun for both children and adults. Meanwhile, Vinpearl Aquarium showcases a mesmerizing array of marine life, immersing visitors in a captivating underwater world.

Together, these destinations harmonize tradition and innovation found in the central districts of Hanoi, ensuring an unforgettable experience for tourists of all ages.

Districts in Hanoi

Districts in Hanoi

Excitement and wonder await at VinKE & Vinpearl Aquarium Times City

2.6. Cau Giay District

Cau Giay District, one of the captivating districts in Hanoi, is situated to the west of the city center. It is home to many remarkable attractions including Cau Giay Park, Nghia Do Park, and Vietnam Museum of Ethnology.

As Cau Giay emerges as a hub for modern services, its vibrant marketplaces, supermarkets, entertainment centers, restaurants, and hotels are continuing to flourish, enhancing the district's significance on the Hanoi map of districts.

Highlights

Vietnam Museum of Ethnology | Cau Giay Park

Recommendations

Street food area: Nghia Tan

Cafe: Cup of Tea

Restaurant: Quan An Ngon

2.7. Hoang Mai District

Hoang Mai District, an enchanting part of the districts in Hanoi map, features spiritual attractions such as Tu Ki Pagoda, Nam Du Church, Gan Hoang Liet Temple, and more. This district also showcases remarkable urbanization and infrastructure development, with vibrant urban areas, efficient bus stations, and the well-known Yen So Park.

Districts in Hanoi

Hoang Mai - one of the must-explore districts in Hanoi (Source: Collected)