Hanoi has climbed to the 83rd spot in the list of the world’s 100 best cities for 2024, up 15 places from last year, according to Euromonitor International.
The ranking evaluates cities based on a comprehensive attractiveness score derived from 55 metrics across six key categories: economic and business performance, tourism performance, tourism infrastructure, tourism policy and attractiveness, health and safety, and sustainability.
Paris retained its position as the top global city destination for the fourth consecutive year, followed by Madrid, Tokyo, Rome, and Milan.
The capital city of Vietnam, Hanoi, boasts a rich tapestry of history and culture, woven into its everyday life, architectural heritage, and vibrant traditions.
One of the most iconic areas of Hanoi is the Old Quarter, a maze of narrow streets, ancient houses, and sacred temples. This area showcases centuries of cultural evolution and remains the heart of the city. Another must-visit is the Temple of Literature, established in 1070 as Vietnam’s first university. This site epitomizes traditional Vietnamese architecture and represents the nation’s reverence for education.
Hoan Kiem Lake, a symbol of peace and tranquility, lies at the city center and is deeply tied to the legend of King Le Loi and his magical sword. Meanwhile, the Thang Long Imperial Citadel, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, reflects over a thousand years of Hanoi’s history as Vietnam’s political hub.
Hanoi’s vibrant cultural heritage is also showcased through its many traditional festivals. The Mid-Autumn Festival, with its colorful lantern processions and lion dances, captures the city’s lively spirit, while Tet Nguyen Dan (Lunar New Year) is a time of heartfelt family reunions and centuries-old rituals.
Hanoi is celebrated for its traditional art forms, particularly water puppetry. Originating in the Red River Delta, this unique art form brings Vietnamese folklore and rural life to vivid life. Calligraphy is another hallmark, often seen during festivals, where artists craft meaningful phrases and poems in traditional Vietnamese script.
The city’s culinary legacy is another source of pride. Pho, Hanoi’s quintessential dish, is known worldwide for its delicate broth, fresh herbs, and tender beef or chicken. Another culinary gem is bun cha, a flavorful combination of grilled pork, rice noodles, and aromatic herbs, showcasing the communal nature of Hanoian dining.
Hanoi’s recent accolades highlight its growing global prominence:
Asia’s Leading City Break Destination: Topping the category for the third consecutive year, surpassing major cities like Bangkok and Seoul.
Asia’s Leading City Destination: Acknowledged by the World Travel Awards for its unparalleled charm.
Vietnam’s Leading Cultural Destination: Recognized for its historical and cultural significance.
Top 100 Best Cities in the World: Ranked 96th globally for 2024.
World’s Best Culinary Destination: Winning against cities like Lisbon and Los Angeles.
One of the World’s 50 Most Beautiful Cities: Celebrated for its aesthetic and cultural allure.
As of November 2024, Hanoi welcomed 5.67 million international arrivals, marking a 36% increase year-on-year. These numbers underscore the city’s growing appeal as both a cultural and tourism hotspot.
With its unique blend of ancient heritage and modern vibrancy, Hanoi continues to captivate visitors from around the world while cementing its reputation as one of the most dynamic cities on the global stage.
