Suggestions for Expats Spending Tết in Hanoi: Where to Stay, What to Do

  • 01/19/2026
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1. What does Tết in Hanoi look like through an expat’s eyes?

1.1. A surprisingly quiet city

On normal days, Hanoi is busy and noisy. During the first days of Tết:

  • The streets are much quieter, with almost no traffic jams.

  • Many small shops and local restaurants close for 2–4 days.

  • The overall pace of life slows down, becoming calmer and gentler, as people spend time with their families.

For expats used to a fast-paced lifestyle, this can feel a bit shocking during the first day or two. But with the right mindset, it becomes a rare chance to see Hanoi in a completely different way.

1.2. Tết-only traditions and activities

During Tết, you’ll notice:

  • Flower markets and streets full of festive decorations in the days leading up to Tết.

  • On New Year’s Eve, people go out to watch fireworks and make wishes for good luck.

  • More visits to pagodas, temples, and churches, with people dressing neatly and exchanging New Year greetings.

Understanding this context in advance helps you feel less confused when the city looks and feels very different from normal days.

2. Where to stay during Tết to stay comfortable and not feel lonely?

The first step to avoiding the feeling of being “left behind” is choosing the right place to stay—especially if you’re an expat spending the entire Tết holiday in Hanoi.

2.1. Areas that work well for expats during Tết

Some recommended neighborhoods include:

  • West Lake (Hồ Tây):
    A popular area among expats, with many cafés, international restaurants, and bars that stay open during Tết more than local areas. The atmosphere is open and relaxed, perfect for walks by the lake.

  • Hoàn Kiếm – Old Quarter:
    Ideal if you want a more “authentic Tết experience,” close to Hoàn Kiếm Lake, temples, walking streets, and the historic Old Quarter. It can be busy at certain times, but there’s always something to see and explore.

  • Ba Đình – a calm central area:
    Close to many embassies and quiet residential streets, yet still convenient to West Lake, the Old Quarter, and major attractions. A good balance between tranquility and accessibility.

2.2. Why serviced apartments are a great choice for expats during Tết

Compared to hotels, serviced apartments are often more suitable for expats because:

  • Private kitchens: you can cook when restaurants are closed or when you simply want a home-style meal.

  • More space: living rooms and dining areas make it easier to work, relax, or invite friends over.

  • Home-like services: washing machines, housekeeping, security, and reception—more like a second home than a hotel room.

  • Comfort for longer stays: ideal for expats living and working in Hanoi, not just short visits.

If you’re staying in Hanoi for Tết, renting a cozy, well-equipped serviced apartment helps you feel like you’re truly “living Tết,” not just staying behind because you had nowhere else to go.

3. What to do in Hanoi during Tết so you don’t feel left out?

3.1. Experience Tết like a local—gently

Some easy and enjoyable activities:

  • Walk around Hoàn Kiếm Lake or the Old Quarter on the morning of Day 1 or Day 2:
    You’ll see festive decorations, families taking photos, and children wearing new clothes.

  • Visit nearby temples, pagodas, or churches:
    Examples include Ngọc Sơn Temple, Phủ Tây Hồ, Trấn Quốc Pagoda, or St. Joseph’s Cathedral.
    You don’t need to follow all the rituals—just be respectful and dress appropriately.

  • Watch fireworks on New Year’s Eve:
    Firework locations change each year, but central areas are usually very convenient.
    If your apartment has a balcony or city view, you may even enjoy the fireworks without the crowds.

3.2. Create your own personal holiday

When many places are closed, it’s also a great time to:

  • Read books, watch movies, or listen to music in a quiet, comfortable apartment.

  • Cook a “fusion” meal—combining your favorite Vietnamese dishes with food from your home country.

  • Write a short reflection on “My Tết in Hanoi”—an experience not every expat gets to have.

An apartment with a kitchen, a cozy sofa, a smart TV, or a small workspace can make Tết feel far from boring.

3.3. Connect with the expat and local community

To avoid feeling isolated:

  • Ask Vietnamese colleagues or friends about their Tết plans—sometimes you might even be invited to a family Tết meal, which is a truly special experience.

  • Join Hanoi expat communities (on Facebook or offline events), where many people stay in town and organize meetups, potlucks, or game nights.

  • Invite a few friends over to your apartment to cook together, watch fireworks, or do a countdown—suddenly, Tết becomes a holiday with stories and memories.

4. Small tips to prepare better for Tết in Hanoi

  • Stock up on basic food and drinks before Tết (instant noodles, dry food, fruit, snacks, water), in case supermarkets or convenience stores close for a day or two.

  • Make a note of cafés and restaurants near you that remain open during Tết—West Lake and the Old Quarter usually have more options.

  • Carry some cash, as small shops may not accept cards or e-wallets during Tết.

  • Learn a few simple Vietnamese New Year greetings, such as:

    • “Chúc mừng năm mới” (Happy New Year)

    • “Chúc bạn nhiều sức khỏe, nhiều may mắn” (Wishing you good health and lots of luck)
      You’ll notice how much warmer local smiles become.

5. Staying with Toàn Tiến Housing & Maison Nhã: a “feel-like-home” option for expats during Tết

If you’re an expat looking for accommodation in Hanoi during Tết, serviced apartments from Toàn Tiến Housing & Maison Nhã can be a great choice:

Location

  • Apartments in the West Lake area, close to the lake, restaurants, and the expat community.

  • Apartments in Hoàn Kiếm, Cửa Nam, Trương Hán Siêu, very close to the Old Quarter and Hoàn Kiếm Lake—perfect for exploring Hanoi on foot during Tết.

  • Some buildings are on quiet streets yet right in the city center, with good security and easy access day and night.

Space & amenities

  • Fully furnished apartments with private kitchens, dining areas, and shared living spaces—ideal for cooking, working, or inviting friends over.

  • Many units offer plenty of natural light, lake views, or beautiful street views, perfect for slowing down during the Tết holiday.

Services & support

  • Staff experienced in working with international guests, with good English communication.

  • Security, housekeeping, and technical support to give you peace of mind throughout your stay—even when many other places are closed for Tết.

With a warm, safe, and welcoming place to stay, Tết in Hanoi doesn’t have to feel like a time when you’re left behind—it can become a very personal and meaningful chapter in your journey of living and working in Vietnam.