Hanoi on the banks of the Red River is swathed in layers of French and Chinese history. The Vietnamese capital might be 1000 years old, but don’t let its historical air fool you. For, you’ll also find a modern city with art, eateries, chic cafes, and one dynamic nightlife. Likewise, get off its streets clogged with scooters and you’ll find the Old Quarter streets dating as far back to 1300. What’s more, Hanoi is a great city for the LGBTQ people. It might not look like it, but you’ll be drowning in choices for gay friendly hotels in Hanoi, Vietnam and the numbers are only increasing. Moreover, they range from regular hotels to hostels to even refurbished boutique ones.
The attitudes towards LGBTQ people are quite liberal here, despite the gay scene not being as boisterous as Bangkok or even Hong Kong. In fact, there’s only one out-and-out gay bar, apart from other extremely gay friendly establishments right in the heart of Hanoi’s Old Quarter. However, the city does celebrate Pride and the monthly Hanoi Queer Takeover parties, which are some of the few open displays of LGBTQ pride in the city. Also, with Hanoi also being one of the Top 10 Things To Do In Vietnam, it’s a must-see on your southeastern Asia gay sojourn. To that end, here are the top 11 gay friendly hotels in Hanoi, Vietnam.
Apricot Hotel
11
Right down the street from the fabulous GC gay bar in the Old Quarter lies the Apricot Hotel, a gorgeous historic gay hotel in Hanoi, Vietnam. Hoan Kiem Lake is right out front, so romantic walks during sunset are not a bad idea. Plus, the streets behind are a shopper’s dream. If there’s a perfect gay hotel in Hanoi, then this would be it.
The hotel is housed in a 1920s neoclassical structure complete with shimmering chandeliers, lots of marble, and white-gloved doormen. What’s more, around 600 works of contemporary Asian art are peppered across the hotel, which makes for a lovely and rather interesting addition. During languid days, lounge on the large rooftop swimming pool with sweeping panoramas of Hoan Kiem Lake. It’s also a rooftop bar that’s the perfect spot for a sundowner. After a workout session in the fitness center, head to the lovely spa, complete with sauna and steam rooms. Finally, breakfast is one amazing spread of cold and hot dishes, pastries, breads, as well as local fare.
You have six different categories of rooms that range from quaint ones with courtyard views to suites overlooking the lake. Nevertheless, they are feature oddball curios, contemporary Vietnamese art, and plush fabrics, all shot against fresh white walls.
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Cocoon Inn
10
Located right in the heart of the Old Quarter, Cocoon Inn is one of the best-located and wallet-friendly gay friendly hotels in Hanoi, Vietnam. ‘Cocoon’ conjures up notions of coziness and comfort – and that’s exactly what this hostel offers. Dorm beds are almost like individual pods, complete with a reading light, electrical socket, privacy curtain, and even a fan! It suffices to say that these might just be one of the most comfortable beds in the city. Similarly, private rooms boast plush beds and even private balconies.
Since this is a hostel, all the fun begins outside the rooms. There’s a rooftop bar that boasts an amazing pulsating atmosphere and dishes out delicious cocktails. After a day of exploring Hanoi, it’s a great place to hang out. There’s a delicious and free breakfast as well as huge lockers for you to stow away your luggage while you’re on the move. The staff is super-friendly and will help you out with everything from bookings to travel tips and recommendations. What’s more, it’s close to both the gay nightlife and the best attractions of Hanoi.
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Hotel de l’Opera
9
Are you looking for a luxurious yet lively gay hotel in Hanoi, Vietnam’s French Quarter? Then look no further than the Hotel de l’Opera, which lies a hop, skip, and jump south of Hoan Kiem Lake. Old Quarter is a 10-minute walk, as is the Red River. Above all, the hotel, which boasts a grand colonial facade, is one luxurious yet fun-filled place to stay, with a lively bar and vibrant hues right from the get-go.
l’Opera makes the bold confluence of faux gilded accents, pink velvet upholstery, and mirrored ceilings work – and how. The grandeur is reminiscent of the Belle Époque, with French black-and-white movie screenings and colonial-style architecture. Even its drinking and dining places are named for Moulin Rouge characters! The utterly contemporary lobby, though, is filled with 21st-century lampshades and chairs, making for a nice mishmash. Facilities are equally excellent, with the heated semi-outdoor pool being the absolute highlight. Besides the well-equipped gym, it’s the spa with a host of pampering sessions that’s quite welcoming after spending a day on Hanoi’s cobblestone streets. Breakfast is a mix of Vietnamese and continental dishes, so you can take your pick. Finally, the sundeck is the perfect place to catch a Hanoian sunset with a sundowner from the bar.
Sun-blocking curtains and incredibly comfy beds in all rooms ensure what you need after a day of exploring Hanoi – a good night’s rest. Bathrooms are equally wonderful, complete with dressing tables and clawfoot tubs in the suites.
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Little Charm Hanoi Hostel
8
Little Charm Hanoi Hostel is one of the most unique gay friendly hotels in Hanoi, Vietnam. Unlike other hostels which put emphasis on partying, this one focuses on quietude, serenity, and relaxation! So, this is one hostel where you can actually kick back and put your feet up between your explorations of Hanoi.
To begin with, there are lots of areas in the hostel to chill, such as the lounge area, the cocktail bar, and the lovely café. The café area is also where a generous complimentary breakfast buffet of coffee/tea, bread, eggs, and fruit is served every morning. On the other hand, the bar becomes one buzzing space in the evening, where you can run into some very interesting people. The best part? There’s an amazing indoor swimming pool which is the perfect place to unwind on balmy days in Hanoi. The staff, which speaks both Vietnamese and English, can help with luggage storage, bike rentals, and travel inquiries. You can rent bicycles to explore the neighborhood on your own.
Like any other hostel, you can choose from dorm rooms and private ones. Both feature immaculate bathrooms, shared and ensuite, with excellent showers and free toiletries.
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Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi
7
The Sofitel Legend Metropole is a very popular luxurious gay hotel in Hanoi, Vietnam with LGBTQ travelers. The grand, Belle Époque former railway hotel lies a block southwest of the Hoan Kiem Lake, just minutes from the Old Quarter. With its romanticized Indochine-French interiors and service, it’s the perfect base for a romantic gaycation in Hanoi.
The hotel radiates a modern Asian-meets-romantic French-Indochina aesthetic and has hosted everyone from movie stars to presidents in the past. Think staff dressed in elegant silk ao dai (traditional Vietnamese tunics), Parisian glass and wrought-iron awnings, and nightly turn-down services. When you lounge by the gorgeous sapphire-blue swimming pool, the staff address you as ‘madame’ or ‘Monsieur’ and get signature cocktails. Three restaurants serve everything from French to Vietnamese to fusion fare, including an extensive breakfast buffet with the best croissants you’ll find in the whole country! You can also join a bevy of tours that range from photo walks of the Old Quarter to cooking classes. A fitness center and a bar round up the facilities here.
The rooms are spread across two wings; the modern annex and the original early-20th-century structure. Nevertheless, the décor is French-Indochine throughout, with Vietnamese silk cushions complementing tall windows that stream natural light. Honey-colored marble bathrooms are luxurious with freestanding tubs and huge lozenge mirrors. For quieter rooms, go for the ones overlooking the pool in the modern structure.
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Essence Hotel & Spa
6
The Essence Hotel & Spa is an excellently-located gay hotel in Hanoi, Vietnam. That’s because most of the Top 12 Things To Do In Hanoi are within walking distance. So, if you want to explore the city’s sights by day and its gay nightlife later on, then this hotel is perfect. Also, even though it lies right in the thick of things, it remains intimate, serene, and restful at the same time.
The décor with warm woods and muted hues of greys, creams, and olives is what lends the hotel its tranquil and calming ambiance. The staff is superb, taking care of all whims and fancies and directing you towards the very best sights and experiences in Hanoi. What’s more, they even organize local excursions in and around the town if you haven’t booked ahead. The hotel’s restaurant is famous for some of the best traditional Vietnamese fare in the Old Quarter. Moreover, it even serves up a sumptuous breakfast buffet of made-to-order eggs, sausages and bacon, Vietnamese stir-fry, coffee, and even tropical fruits. Rounding up the amenities is the small but excellent spa.
With thick glazed and heavily draped windows, even the street-facing rooms are quiet. While some have balconies and seating areas, they all feature squishy beds, workstations, and spacious and lovely bathrooms.
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InterContinental Hanoi Westlake
5
The Intercontinental Hanoi Westlake is the best gay hotel in Hanoi, Vietnam for escaping the bustle of the Old Quarter. This luxurious urban resort not only overlooks the serene waters of the city’s largest lake, Ho Tay but also Tran Quoc, the oldest pagoda in Vietnam. Besides the Old Quarter a 10-minute drive away, even the Titan Sauna, one of the city’s best gay saunas, is a five-minute walk from the hotel.
Designed to resemble an open lotus flower, the hotel’s piece de resistance is the striking, towering atrium with a massive crystal chandelier. It leads on to a small island hosting the gorgeous Sunset Bar, from where you can see the marvelous overwater two-story pavilions with the rooms. There are mini odes to the Vietnamese culture, like mini cyclos (three-wheeled bicycle taxis) in the rooms. The alfresco jade-green swimming pool is a blessing during summer months, after which you can book an in-room massage service. If you’re a fitness freak, then the 24-hour gym with Zumba classes, sauna, and steam is perfect. You have the choice of six dining options, along with a wide-ranging breakfast buffet that offers everything from made-to-order eggs to French pastries to Asian noodles.
All rooms here are huge, even entry-level ones, with gorgeous views of the lake from private balconies. Vietnamese design and contemporary touches both abound, along with plush beds and marble bathrooms with large bathtubs for two.
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The Chi Boutique Hotel
4
The Chi Boutique Hotel is one of the most gorgeous gay friendly hotels in Hanoi, Vietnam’s Old Quarter. The lovely hotel departs from the typical ‘French-colonial’ aesthetic of the Old Quarter and has a rather personable and fashionable contemporary style. The first thing you’ll notice as you walk into this building is the jaw-dropping gorgeous wall of foliage and flowers. Even though it’s a budget boutique hotel, the Chi Boutique has a decent number of amenities. Besides a 24-hour desk, these also include tour arrangements and a business center. What’s more, it even has a quaint spa offering a range of massages and treatments. The absolute standout is the sun-kissed, foliage-fringed rooftop from where you can enjoy gorgeous Hanoian sunsets and views of Hoan Kiem lake.
Even though rooms are on the smaller side, they’re far better than most of the boutique hotels in the Old Quarter. Even the entry-level standard Rooms are nice, with polished wooden floors and immaculate bathrooms. But, if you want views, then opt for the Deluxe Rooms. That said, the open-plan suites with extended balconies and spa bathrooms are the best of them all.
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Silk Path Boutique Hanoi
3
The Silk Path Boutique Hotel is not only one of the 11 Best Hotels in Hanoi but also one of the best gay friendly hotels in Hanoi, Vietnam. And, it’s easy to see why. Firstly, it lies in the heart of the atmospheric Old Quarter, which is home to most of the city’s gay friendly establishments. Secondly, it’s very wallet-friendly, despite its five-star service and stylish accommodations. Finally, it boasts an enviable location right opposite Hoan Kiem Lake, along with some of the best Hanoi views from the rooftop bar.
The former apartment- lock-turned-boutique hotel, this intimate space is French-colonial style at its best. Think fragrant flowers everywhere, Tiffany-esque stained glass, and gleaming marble all around. The staff is unfailingly helpful and warm, and the concierge offers lots of handy tips for exploring the city. Aside from other meals, the cute in-house restaurant offers the most expansive breakfast menu with both local and international delicacies. The highlight is the ninth-floor roof terrace-cum-bar with spectacular views of Hanoi.
You can choose from 33 spacious rooms and suites with either city or lake views, the softest beds, and immaculate marble bathrooms. Moreover, they also come with flatscreen TVs loaded with Netflix and coffee/tea-making facilities. Finally, you even get a healthy fruit during turndown.
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The Lapis Hotel
2
The Lapis Hotel is your perfect quiet refuge in the heart of central Hanoi. One of Hanoi’s most gay friendly hotels in the historic French Quarter, the hotel is nothing short of a lavish home in the heart of the city. You’ll like everything about the urban sanctum that is the Lapis Hotel, especially its laundry list of facilities. To begin with, there’s a fabulous outdoor infinity swimming pool with mesmerizing vistas of Hanoi. Relax on one of the off-white sun loungers and sip on cocktails while enjoying the city views. The on-site restaurant and bar take care of all food and drink cravings. What’s more, there’s even a shared lounge and a sun terrace where you can unwind on the property. Finally, the hotel even has other helpful services like airport transfers, car rentals, currency exchanges, and more.
When it comes to accommodations, you’re going to be impressed by the minimalist regal look in all the rooms. They all feature standard mod-cons like cable flat-screen TVs and minibars, and some even have separate seating areas. What’s more, all ensuite bathrooms come equipped with extras like toiletries, slippers, and bathrobes.
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Nexy Hostel
1
If you’re looking for a social gay hotel in Hanoi, Vietnam’s Old Quarter, then Nexy Hostel is the best. Located in a classic Vietnamese structure, the hip hostel is supposedly the only five-star hostel in the town! If you’re a social butterfly, then Nexy has some wonderful common areas to suit all kinds of socializing. For instance, the onsite café-cum-bar is a great place to hang out and swap stories with other backpackers. It even has a happy hour, which is when it’s packed to the brim. The games room with board games, pool, and foosball, and even a TV room with free-to-use computers. The highlight is the stylish, sun-kissed, and comfortable terrace with tons of seating, food, and drinks. What’s more, the hostel even serves a lovely free breakfast, which includes the famous Vietnamese Pho!
When it comes to accommodations, you can choose from dorm rooms and private ones. Dorm beds even have individual reading lights, power outlets, lockers, and privacy curtains. Moreover, some of the private rooms even have private balconies with alfresco seating.
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Get Some Culture in Hanoi:
- Hanoi Queer Takeover – This grand monthly LGBT gay party in Hanoi is famous for drag shows, fabulous events, and dance!
Best Gay Bars / Clubs in Hanoi:
- GC Bar – Hanoi’s main, and only ‘gay’ bar per se, lies right in the center of Old Town. Rather than a dance floor, it’s a cool space to chat and meet new people.
- Sidewalk – This LGBT-owned, gay-popular uber space has drink deals, DJs playing music, and an outdoor bar.
Best Gay Saunas in Hanoi:
- Titan Sauna – A newer gay sauna, Titan has modern facilities like a darkroom, sauna, shower, private cabins, and even a Himalayan rock salt steam room.
