Hanoi in Autumn: Everything you need to know for a perfect trip

Hanoi in autumn is when the city reveals its calmest and most romantic charm. The air turns cool and fresh, milk flowers bloom along quiet streets, and golden leaves gently cover the sidewalks. This guide will show you everything you need to know for a perfect trip - from the weather and local food to the best things to do during Hanoi in autumn.

When is Autumn in Hanoi and what’s the weather like?

Hanoi in autumn typically lasts from September to November - a brief but magical season that paints the city in golden light and cool breezes. This is when the intense summer heat starts to fade and the first yellow leaves begin to drift along tree-lined boulevards.

Hanoi in Autumn lasts from September to November

In early September, daytime temperatures hover around 24-30 °C (75-86 °F) and rainfall remains moderately high as the city transitions from the rainy season. As autumn deepens in October and November, temperatures gradually fall toward 20-27 °C (68-81 °F) and evenings often drop to 18-23 °C (64-73 °F). Humidity lowers, the air feels fresher, and skies tend to clear.

Although rain becomes less frequent, occasional light showers can still occur - so it’s wise to carry a compact umbrella. Whether you are enjoying a peaceful morning by Hoan Kiem Lake or sipping a warm coffee in the cool evening air, Hanoi in autumn offers visitors a timeless, nostalgic charm that lasts long after they leave.

Top things to do in Hanoi Autumn

As you wander through Hanoi in its most enchanting season, every corner seems to whisper the charm of autumn: from golden streets to breezy lakeshores. To fully embrace the city’s beauty and rhythm, here are the experiences you simply shouldn’t miss during your autumn journey in Hanoi.

Riding at sunset and Enjoying milk flowers (hoa sua)

Milk flowers - sign that autumn has truly arrived

As the autumn sun slowly sets, Hanoi’s tree-lined streets and lakeside paths glow in warm shades of gold. A leisurely bike ride around West Lake or along Thanh Niên Street offers a peaceful escape, where the cool breeze carries the gentle fragrance of milk flowers. Locals often pause to breathe in this familiar scent - a quiet sign that autumn has truly arrived in the heart of the city.

Capturing the Golden Autumn moments

Capturing the golden tones on Phan Dinh Phung Street

Hanoi in Autumn paints the city in soft, golden tones. Stroll along Phan Đinh Phung Street, where yellow leaves gently fall over the century-old walls, or pause by Hoan Kiem Lake to capture the reflection of the Turtle Tower in the calm water. Whether through your camera or your eyes, every frame tells a story of Hanoi’s timeless beauty wrapped in the glow of autumn light.

Relaxing by the Lake and Watching Sunset

Watching sunset at West Lake 

There’s no better way to unwind than sitting by West Lake as the day comes to an end. Choose a lakeside café, sip on a warm cup of tea, and watch the sky shift from gold to violet. The soft ripples on the water and the cool evening air create a sense of peace that few cities can offer. 

Attending Local autumn festivals and Cultural activities

Attending the Mid-Autumn Festival at Old Quarter

Autumn brings a festive spirit to Hanoi. The Mid-Autumn Festival lights up the Old Quarter with colorful lanterns, traditional music, and the laughter of children. Around Hoan Kiem Lake, local markets and cultural performances celebrate the city’s heritage in its most charming season. Joining these festivities allows you to experience Hanoi not just as a visitor, but as part of its living culture.

Exploring bicycle-friendly alleys and hidden cafe

Discover hidden cafe in Autumn in Hanoi

Beyond the busy streets, Hanoi hides a slower, softer charm in its small alleys and secret courtyards. Pedal through shaded lanes where the scent of coffee drifts from cozy cafés, or stop at a quiet corner to enjoy a cup of egg coffee. These intimate spaces offer a glimpse into local life and create moments that linger long after your journey ends.

Read more: Hoan Kiem Lake: Complete guide to Hanoi’s iconic landmark

Visiting Historical Streets and Autumn Landmarks

Visit Hanoi French Quarter 

Hanoi autumn is the perfect time to wander through Hanoi’s historic streets and landmarks. The cool weather invites long walks around the Temple of Literature, the French Quarter, or the Old Quarter’s winding lanes. Golden leaves fall over ancient roofs, and each step reveals the city’s blend of history, art, and everyday life. It’s a season when Hanoi feels both timeless and alive.

What to eat in Hanoi in Autumn?

Autumn Hanoi is not just a visual delight, it’s also a season to savor the city’s rich culinary heritage. From steaming bowls of pho to the sweet fragrance of young green rice, each dish captures the flavors and spirit of this golden season. Here are some iconic autumn foods you shouldn’t miss when exploring Hanoi.

Pho Bat Dan

• Address: 49 Bat Dan, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi
• Opening hours: 06:00–10:00 and 18:00-20:30
• Price range: 40,000–55,000 VND per bowl

Pho Bat Dan 

A steaming bowl of Hanoi style Pho is the quintessential autumn morning comfort. With a clear, aromatic beef broth, tender meat slices and fresh herbs, it’s ideal for soaking up the cool air and gentle light of the season.

Bun Cha

• Address: 24 Le Van Huu, Hai Ba Trung, Hanoi
• Opening hours: 08:30 - 15:00 and 17:00 - 20:30 daily
• Price range: 40,000-60,000 VND per serving

Eat Bun Cha 

Charcoal-grilled pork, fresh herbs and rice noodles come together in this local favourite. In the crisp autumn air, the warm flavours and gentle smokiness match Hanoi’s mellow pace beautifully.

Cha Ca La Vong

• Address: 14 Cha Ca, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi
• Opening hours: 11:00–14:00 and 17:00–21:00
• Price range: 350,000–500,000 VND per serving

Cha Ca La Vong at 14 Cha Ca

This iconic dish features turmeric-marinated fish cooked tableside with dill and spring onions. It is a quintessential Hanoi experience, especially enjoyable in the cool autumn air.

Green Rice Cake (Com)

• Address: 11 Hang Than, Ba Dinh, Hanoi
• Price range: 6,000-20,000 VND

Com - the essence of the autumn season in Hanoi

Fresh, aromatic, and subtly sweet, this green rice cake is the essence of the autumn season in Hanoi. Each bite captures the gentle fragrance of young rice and evokes childhood memories of cool mornings and golden streets. It perfectly reflects the calm, poetic beauty of the city during this serene season.

Sau fruit 

• Address: Street vendors across Hanoi, especially around the Old Quarter and Hoan Kiem Lake
• Season: August - September
• Price range: 10,000-30,000 VND 

Sau Fruit

Sau fruit is one of Hanoi’s most iconic tastes of autumn. Its tangy and slightly sweet flavor makes it a refreshing street snack that locals love. You can enjoy it pickled, soaked in sugar syrup, or as a cooling drink - perfect for a breezy afternoon in Hanoi in autumn.

Snail 

• Address: Snail stalls on Dinh Liet, Hang Be, or Tay Son Street
• Opening hours: 16:00–22:00
• Price range: 50,000–120,000 VND 

Taste Boiled Snails in Hanoi in Autumn

Hot boiled or stir-fried snails are a beloved Hanoi street food, especially during the cool Hanoi in autumn evenings. The snails are freshly cooked and served with a flavorful dipping sauce made from fish sauce, ginger, lemongrass, and chili. Whether you enjoy them simply boiled or richly stir-fried, each bite captures the warmth and spice that balance perfectly with the crisp autumn air.

Egg Coffee

• Address: 39 Nguyen Huu Huan, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi
• Opening hours: 07:00-22:00
• Price range: approximately 35,000 VND per cup

Egg Coffee - famous cafe of Hanoi

Creamy, velvety and rich, the egg coffee blends whipped yolk foam with strong Vietnamese coffee. On a cool autumn afternoon, this drink warms the soul and makes for a memorable café moment in the Old Quarter.

Read more: Egg Coffee Hanoi Old Quarter: Where to drink, eat & explore

Essential Tips for travelling in Autumn in Hanoi

Autumn in Hanoi transforms the city with golden foliage, crisp air, and vibrant cultural experiences. The mild temperatures and serene atmosphere make Hanoi in autumn a perfect time for exploring, sightseeing, and enjoying seasonal delights.

Dress in Layers

Mornings and evenings during Hanoi autumn can be cool, with temperatures around 18–25°C. Wearing a light jacket or long-sleeved clothing ensures comfort, while daytime is usually mild enough for leisurely city walks.

Stay Hydrated and Protect Your Skin

Even in autumn, the midday sun can feel strong. Carry water, apply sunscreen, and consider a hat or umbrella for extra shade while strolling along lakesides and tree-lined streets.

Enjoy Hanoi’s Seasonal Cuisine

One of the highlights of autumn in Hanoi is its seasonal food. Warm bowls of pho, bun cha, egg coffee, or sweet green rice cakes are especially comforting during the cooler months, offering both flavour and a local cultural experience.

Capture the Autumn Scenery

Hanoi’s streets and parks turn golden, creating perfect backdrops for photography. Hoan Kiem Lake, the Old Quarter, and Phan Dinh Phung Street are especially photogenic, making Hanoi in autumn a dream for travellers seeking picturesque views.

Autumn leaves falling along Hoan Kiem Lake Hanoi in autumn

Experience Local Festivals

The Mid-Autumn Festival fills the city with lanterns, mooncakes, and dragon dances. Joining these celebrations allows visitors to immerse themselves in the vibrant cultural life of Hanoi autumn.

Prepare for Occasional Rain

While the season is mostly dry, occasional showers can occur. Carry a compact umbrella and wear comfortable, waterproof shoes to navigate the city easily.

With these tips, you can enjoy everything that autumn Hanoi has to offer - from its golden streets and seasonal cuisine to lively cultural experiences.

Experience Autumn Hanoi’s Charm at Tonkin Luxury Boutique Hotel & Spa

Located on quiet Chau Long Street, just a few minutes walk from West Lake and the Old Quarter, Tonkin Luxury Boutique Hotel & Spa offers the perfect retreat to embrace the timeless charm of autumn in Hanoi. From your balcony, watch golden leaves drift along ancient streets, hear distant temple bells, and breathe in the faint scent of milk flowers carried by the cool autumn breeze.

Tonkin Luxury Boutique Hotel & Spa

Blending classic Indochine design with modern comfort, the hotel features cozy rooms bathed in natural light, a soothing L’iên Spa, a rooftop infinity pool, and the panoramic Nón Sky Bar - creating a peaceful escape in the heart of the city.

During autumn mornings, guests can enjoy a leisurely bike ride around West Lake, stop for a cup of Hanoi’s signature egg coffee, then return for a warm breakfast at GạoTa Restaurant. Whether you’re staying for a weekend getaway or a longer retreat, Tonkin transforms your Hanoi in autumn into a poetic experience - where every moment feels serene, elegant, and unforgettable.

Experience the beauty of Hanoi in autumn - where golden leaves, cool breezes, and warm hospitality create memories that last long after your trip ends. Book your autumn escape today and enjoy exclusive seasonal offers, designed to make your Hanoi journey truly unforgettable.