Hanoi Nightlife Guide: Top 12 Best Bars in Hanoi You Cannot Miss

Hanoi at night is not just about the noise and bustle of Ta Hien Beer Street. Hidden deep within narrow alleys and ancient French colonial buildings is a mesmerizing and profound world of Hanoi Nightlife. This is a carefully curated list of the best bars in Hanoi selected by "Local Experts," taking you from impeccable classic cocktails to artistically rich spaces.

Option 1: Best Rooftop Bars | For scenic views & check-ins

If you love open, airy spaces and want to capture the whole city in your sight, the Rooftop bar segment in the list below is the perfect choice.

1. Botan Bar & Dine

Botan Bar & Dine is not just a place to enjoy drinks; it is a place that tells a cultural story through every layer of flavor. This is a delicate intersection between modern Western mixology techniques and signature herbal ingredients from Vietnam and Asia.

Vibe & Space: Stepping into Botan, you will be immediately impressed by the combination of natural raw wood and soft golden lighting, creating an "Intimate" feeling.
Noise Level: Moderate. The gentle Jazz/Lounge background music is just enough for guests to have deep conversations without being disturbed.
Best for: Romantic dates, Luxury client meetings, Food lovers.
Taste & Dining:
Cocktail: Try a Signature glass with a light smoky flavor, a sweet aftertaste of licorice, or a faint scent of jasmine. The drinking sensation is very smooth, explosive in the middle notes, yet incredibly balanced in the aftertaste.
Dining (USP): The biggest difference between Botan and bars that only serve dry snacks is the Dining menu. The bar serves high-class Fusion/Tapas dishes, helping customers enjoy a complete and refined dinner right at the bar counter. See view menu

Contact Info:

Hotline: (+84) 88 602 8558.
Address: 9th Floor, Meritel Hanoi, 151-153 Hang Bong, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi.
Opening hours: 14:30 - 00:00.

Botan Bar & Dine

2. Ignite Sky Bar

Located on the rooftop of the Peridot Grand Hotel, Ignite is considered the "new king" of rooftops in the Old Quarter due to its scale and luxury.

Highlight: A massive 360-degree space with a stunning "birdcage" design. This is the best spot to watch the violet sunset over the city skyline.

Vibe: Chic, Trendy, and Luxurious.
Noise Level: Lively. Often features DJs and vibrant music in the evening.
Best for: Fashionable parties, groups of friends who love a "fancy" atmosphere.
Signature: The Starlight (Visual-focused cocktails).

Contact Info:

Address: 33 Duong Thanh, Hoan Kiem
Opening hours: 16:00 - 00:00.

Ignite Sky Bar - The ultimate luxury rooftop experience in Hanoi.

3. Skyline Hanoi

Ideally situated in the heart of the Old Quarter, Skyline acts as an observatory deck where you can embrace the entire bustling life of Hanoi from above.

Highlight: One of the very few bars offering a complete panoramic view encompassing Hoan Kiem Lake, the Red River, and Long Bien Bridge all at once.
Vibe: Elegant, airy, and open.
Noise Level: Moderate to Lively.
Best for: First-time visitors to Hanoi, sunset lovers, and photography enthusiasts.
Signature: Skyline Passion (Refreshing fruit-based cocktails).

Contact Info:

Address: 38 Gia Ngu, Hoan Kiem
Opening hours: 09:00 - 23:00.

Capture the panoramic beauty of the capital at Skyline Hanoi.

4. Serein Cafe & Lounge

Though leaning towards a lounge model, Serein is an unmissable destination for those who want a view steeped in history.

Highlight: The "Exclusive" view looking straight at the legendary Long Bien Bridge and the train tracks. The design follows a classic Western vintage style (Old Paris).
Vibe: Nostalgic, cinematic, and peaceful.
Noise Level: Relaxed.
Best for: History lovers, couples, and those chasing "cinematic" photos with the bridge.
Signature: Classic Cocktails & Egg Coffee (A must-try in Hanoi).

Contact Info:

Address: 16 Long Bien Station Collective, Hoan Kiem
Opening hours: 08:00 - 23:00.

Serein Cafe & Lounge - Where time stands still beside the historic bridge.

5. Terraço Sky Bar

One of the rare locations that allow you to see the symbol of the capital at the closest range.

Highlight: Direct view of Hoan Kiem Lake and Turtle Tower (Very few bars have this direct view).
Vibe: Romantic and relaxing.
Noise Level: Low, chill-out music.
Best for: Tourists wanting to see the "heart" of Hanoi.
Signature: Cocktails inspired by old Hanoi flavors.

Contact Info:

Address: 33-35 Hang Dau, Hoan Kiem
Opening hours: 16:00 - 00:00.

Terraço Sky Bar possesses a beautiful direct view of Hoan Kiem Lake.

Option 2: The Speakeasy & Hidden Gems | For cocktail lovers & privacy

If you are looking for the best bars in Hanoi with a mysterious style, where dim lighting and the art of Mixology reign supreme, visit the Speakeasy and Cocktail bar addresses below.

6. The Haflington

Stepping into The Haflington is stepping into an exciting archaeological adventure.

Highlight: The space is like an ancient European museum with a giant dinosaur fossil hanging in the atrium. Top 50 Best Bars Asia.
Vibe: Cinematic, nostalgic, and luxurious.
Noise Level: Low, polite.
Best for: History lovers, dates that need a strong impression.
Signature Drink: Cocktails themed around ocean exploration or history.

Contact Info:

Address: 94 Hang Ma, Hoan Kiem
Opening hours: 15:00 - 01:00.

The Haflington - A unique museum bar.

7. Nê Cocktail Bar

A name that cannot be missed when mentioning the Vietnamese cocktail map, a place that honors local flavors.

Highlight: The pride of Vietnamese bartenders. Cozy, intimate space.
Vibe: Friendly, rustic (Casual & Local).
Noise Level: Cheerful, busy.
Best for: Foreign guests wanting to try exotic flavors, close friend groups.
Must-try: Pho Cocktail (The legendary drink that brought the bar's name to the world) - the taste of Hanoi Pho in a glass of wine.

Contact Info:

Address: 3B Tong Duy Tan, Hoan Kiem
Opening hours: 19:30 - 02:00.

Challenge your taste buds with the famous Pho Cocktail at Nê.

8. Kumquat tree speakeasy bar

A true hidden gem, challenging the curiosity of anyone who wants to find it.

Highlight: Secret entrance (usually requires finding a code or hidden passage). Luxurious Asian-style space with a dominant red tone.
Vibe: Mysterious, good music, and stylish.
Noise Level: Moderate.
Best for: People who like discovery, discreet dates.
Signature: Cocktails using fresh seasonal fruits (Kumquat).

Contact Info:

Address: 01 Nguyen Khac Can, Hoan Kiem
Opening hours: 18:00 - 02:00.

Kumquat Tree - A Speakeasy bar with a strong Asian vibe.

9. Polite & Co

A bar with the appearance of a gallant gentleman amidst the bustling streets.

Highlight: One of the first bars in the Old Quarter. Inspired by Gentlemen’s Clubs of the 1920s.
Vibe: Cozy, polite, nostalgic.
Noise Level: Gentle Jazz/Swing music.
Best for: Lovers of classics, whisky lovers.
Signature: Impeccable Classic Cocktails lines.

Contact Info:

Address: 5B Bao Khanh Alley, Hoan Kiem
Opening hours: 16:00 - 23:00.

Return to the 1920s at Polite & Co.

10. The Alchemist cocktail bar

Where bartenders (Alchemists) transform drops of alcohol into art.

Highlight: Classic design, absolute focus on skillful mixing techniques.
Vibe: Quiet, focused on the taste experience.
Noise Level: Quiet.
Best for: True connoisseurs of alcohol (Whisky & Classic Cocktails).
Signature: Bespoke Cocktail (Mixed according to mood).

Contact Info:

Address: 19 Nguyen Quang Bich, Hoan Kiem
Opening hours: 19:00 - 01:00.

The Alchemist - A place honoring the art of craft mixing.

Option 3: Music & Chill | Jazz, Vinyl, Live music

Music is the soul of the evening. If you are looking for the best bars in Hanoi to lose yourself in melodies, do not miss the Jazz bar and Music Bar addresses below.

11. Binh Minh Jazz Club

A living legend of the Vietnamese Jazz village that any music lover must visit.

Highlight: The "Sanctuary" of Hanoi Jazz founded by artist Quyen Van Minh.
Experience: Live Jazz every night (9 PM - 11:30 PM) with top artists.
Noise Level: Focused on music.
Best for: Jazz lovers, cultural tourists.
Signature: Classic Cocktails & Beer.

Contact Info:

Address: 1 Trang Tien, Hoan Kiem
Opening hours: 17:00 - 00:00.

Immerse yourself in passionate Jazz melodies at Binh Minh Jazz Club.

12. Long Waits

A poignant low note for fastidious ears and those who love nostalgia.

Highlight: A bar for vinyl lovers and hi-end audio systems.
Vibe: Quiet, profound, rustic space.
Noise Level: Music volume is just enough to enjoy.
Best for: Going alone (Solo), or couples to listen to music together.
Signature: Highball & Whisky.

Contact Info:

Address: 5 Nguyen Quang Bich, Hoan Kiem
Opening hours: 08:30 - 01:00.

Long Waits - A peaceful corner for vinyl lovers.

Frequently Asked Questions about best bars in Hanoi?

Below are the most common questions from tourists when searching for the best bars in Hanoi, helping you prepare best for your night out.

Which bar is suitable for vegetarians?

Most bars only serve dry snacks. However, Botan Bar & Dine is a rare exception with a diverse Dining Menu, featuring many refined Vegetarian-friendly options, ensuring you won't go hungry while chilling.

Which area has the most fun nightlife in Hanoi?

If you like the hustle and bustle, go to the Old Quarter (Hoan Kiem), especially Ta Hien - Luong Ngoc Quyen. If you prefer a luxurious, airy, and more Western space, choose the area around West Lake (Tay Ho).

Are rooftop bars expensive?

The average price at Rooftop bars is usually slightly higher (about 200k - 500k/glass). Tip: Go during Happy Hour (usually from 17:00 - 19:00) to enjoy Buy 1 Get 1 Free offers.

Are Speakeasies hard to find, and do I need to book?

True to the name, they are often hidden in small alleys or attics without signs. You really should book a table in advance (Booking) via Fanpage/Hotline because the space in these bars is usually small and runs out of seats very quickly on weekends.

Is going to bars in Hanoi safe?

Hanoi is one of the safest cities in Southeast Asia. However, always take care of your personal belongings and book a ride-hailing service (Grab/Be/XanhSM) when returning late to ensure absolute safety.

What time should I go to avoid the crowds?

If you want to take photos and see the view quietly, go from 16:30 - 19:00. If you want to feel the vibrant atmosphere of true nightlife, arrive after 21:00.

With the list of the top 12 best bars in Hanoi above, we hope you have found a perfect spot. Don't forget to visit Botan Bar & Dine to save your most beautiful memories in Hanoi. We are waiting for you with untold stories and unforgettable flavors!