Places to Visit in Hanoi During New Year’s Day (Western New Year)

1. Hoan Kiem Lake & Pedestrian Zone – The “Heart” of Hanoi During New Year

When it comes to New Year’s celebrations, few places feel as festive as Hoan Kiem Lake and its surrounding pedestrian streets. During this time:

• The streets are decorated with lights, flags, and New Year-themed installations.

• Street performances, live music, dance groups, and art activities create a vibrant atmosphere around the lake.

• Cafés, restaurants, and rooftops nearby embrace the countdown vibe, perfect for those who enjoy a lively scene.

You can take a walk around the lake in the afternoon, enjoy the city lights in the evening, and stay late if there’s a countdown event—most major celebrations are concentrated in this central area.

2. Old Quarter & Ta Hien Street – Nightlife and Energy

If Hoan Kiem Lake is ideal for strolling and soaking up a family-friendly atmosphere, the Old Quarter—especially Ta Hien and Luong Ngoc Quyen streets—is for those who want to celebrate all night:

• Bars, pubs, beer corners, and eateries are especially lively on the night of December 31.

• A mix of international travelers, expats, and young locals creates a vibrant, global atmosphere while still retaining Hanoi’s unique charm.

Expect large crowds—this area is best for those who love energy and excitement rather than quiet spaces.

3. West Lake – More Open, Relaxed, and Romantic

In recent years, West Lake has become a favorite New Year destination for both expats and locals:

• Lakeside streets such as Trich Sai, Nhat Chieu, and Quang An glow with lights, perfect for walking, cycling, or enjoying coffee by the water.

• Many cafés, restaurants, and rooftops host year-end dinners and private countdown events, without the overwhelming crowds of the city center.

• If you stay in a high-floor apartment with a lake view, you can host a cozy year-end gathering and enjoy the city from a peaceful distance.

This is an ideal choice if you want a festive atmosphere without feeling overcrowded.

4. Trang Tien – Opera House – Book Street: New Year Photo Spots

The area around the Hanoi Opera House, Trang Tien Street, and 19/12 Book Street is always a must-visit during holidays:

• Elegant buildings, festive lights, New Year signage, Christmas trees, and well-designed photo backdrops.

• A blend of classic charm and modern elegance—perfect for New Year photos with friends or loved ones.

• Cafés, ice cream shops, and shopping are all within walking distance.

If you visit Hoan Kiem Lake during the day, this area makes a perfect stop in the late afternoon or evening.

5. Central Streets & Shopping Malls – All-in-One Entertainment

For a convenient, weather-friendly option, Hanoi’s shopping malls are a safe and comfortable choice:

• Vincom, Lotte, Aeon Mall, and others often feature New Year and Lunar New Year decorations, promotions, and family-friendly activities.

• You can enjoy dining, shopping, movies, and kids’ play areas all in one place.

In addition, central streets like Ba Trieu, Pho Hue, Cau Giay, and Nguyen Chi Thanh are beautifully lit—great for a relaxing drive to admire the city at night.

6. Temples & Historical Sites – A Peaceful Start to the New Year

Many people treat New Year’s Day as a gentle transition toward Lunar New Year, choosing quieter, more reflective activities:

• Popular spots include Tran Quoc Pagoda (West Lake), the Temple of Literature, Phu Tay Ho, and Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum (combined with walks around Ba Dinh and Hoang Dieu).

• These places offer a calm, contemplative atmosphere—ideal for those who want to begin the year with peace and gratitude rather than noise.

A lovely plan is to visit temples and landmarks during the day, then head to West Lake or the city center in the evening for a festive mood.

7. Where to Stay to Fully Enjoy New Year’s in Hanoi

Beyond deciding where to go, many people now think about where to stay:

• If you’re a local looking for a change of pace, a 1–2 night staycation in a serviced apartment near West Lake, the Old Quarter, or the city center can be a refreshing way to end the year.

• If you’re visiting from another city, choosing a spacious apartment with a kitchen and communal space allows you to gather, cook, celebrate, and enjoy the New Year together—much more meaningful than just staying in a standard hotel room.

From there, you can celebrate New Year your own way: stroll during the day, cook dinner at night, raise a toast, watch movies, count down together, and look out over a city glowing with lights—without the crowds.

No matter where you go, the most important thing about New Year’s Day is who you’re with—and how you truly feel as the new year begins. Hanoi offers space for every kind of celebration: from vibrant countdowns and dazzling lights to quiet rooms, warm windows, and a few close companions sharing one simple wish:
“Happy New Year.”