Popular expat neighborhood around West Lake with upscale restaurants, cafes, and hotels.

About West Lake (Tay Ho)

West Lake (Hồ Tây or Tây Hồ) is Hanoi's largest lake, a 17-km-circumference body of water surrounded by tree-lined boulevards, pagodas, and an increasingly cosmopolitan neighborhood. The area is Hanoi's most popular district for expatriates, with international restaurants, craft breweries, yoga studios, and lakeside cafes along Xuân Diệu and Tô Ngọc Vân streets.

Trấn Quốc Pagoda, one of Vietnam's oldest Buddhist temples (dating to the 6th century), sits on a small peninsula jutting into the lake. The nearby Quán Thánh Temple and the ornate Tây Hồ Palace temple attract both pilgrims and tourists. Thanh Niên Road, the scenic causeway dividing West Lake from Trúc Bạch Lake, is one of Hanoi's most pleasant walks.

West Lake is closer to the airport than the Old Quarter, making it a convenient first stop. The neighborhood offers a welcome contrast to Hanoi's frenetic center—quieter streets, lakeside sunsets, and a growing dining scene that includes some of the city's best international and Vietnamese cuisine.

Nearby Landmarks

Trấn Quốc Pagoda Quán Thánh Temple Thanh Niên Road Xuân Diệu Street

Transport Options

Taxi

Cost 250,000-400,000 VND ($10-15)
Time 25-40 minutes

Follow "Taxi" signs at arrivals. Queue at official taxi stand. Metered fares, no need to negotiate.

Rideshare (Grab/Uber)

Cost $10-14 (via Grab)
Time 25-40 minutes

Arrivals level

Step-by-Step Directions

Take Bus 86 to Long Bien station, transfer to bus 55 heading to Tay Ho district. Service is less frequent in the evening.

Quick Comparison

Option Cost Time Best For
Taxi 250,000-400,000 VND ($10-15) 25-40 minutes Convenience, groups, heavy luggage
Rideshare $10-14 (via Grab) 25-40 minutes Budget-conscious, app users

Good to Know

Late Night Transport

Taxis and Grab operate 24/7. A nighttime ride to West Lake from the airport costs VND 280,000-380,000 ($11-15). The West Lake area has many bars and restaurants open until 11 PM-midnight. Late-night food options include phở stalls open until 2 AM.

Luggage Tips

Taxis handle luggage well. West Lake area streets are wider than the Old Quarter, making luggage easier to manage. Most hotels and serviced apartments in the area have vehicle drop-off access. No public luggage storage in the area.

Accessibility

Taxis are the most accessible transfer option. West Lake's lakeside promenade is flat and mostly paved, suitable for wheelchairs. The Thanh Niên Road causeway is smooth and scenic. Some temple grounds have steps. Hotels in the area vary in accessibility—check in advance.