In September of 2025, Georgia Wyrill – Founder & Creative Director at Saint Valentine Jewellery – took a leisurely family holiday to Hanoi, one of the cultural hearts of South-East Asia. Initially a trip to visit one of her suppliers, it turned into an exploration of the city with her partner and eight-month old baby.

Here, she shares with us her curated guide of what to do, where to eat and where to shop.

Stay

Hanoi Westlake

A short 15-minute drive from the bustling Old Quarter, this tranquil retreat sits right on the edge of the lake. It’s the perfect place to unwind, especially at sunset with a drink on the balcony watching the world go by with locals walking and doing joy laps on motorcycles around the lake’s perimeter. The breakfast buffet is exceptional, featuring made-to-order pho and options for all dietaries. There’s also a peaceful and usually quiet pool to escape the heat.

Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi

An icon of timeless French colonial elegance in the heart of Hanoi’s Old Quarter, the Metropole blends old-world glamour with refined modern luxury. It’s white shutters, wrought iron balconies, lush courtyards and black and white tiled corridors, have made it a favourite among writers, diplomats and dreamers for over a century. Even if you’re not staying, it’s worth dropping by — start with a croissant from the luxe in-house bakery L’epicerie, people-watch with a coffee from La Terrasse, or slip into the cool hush of Le Club Bar for an afternoon martini that feels straight out of Paris and shop in the incredible arcade including the Hanoia store.

Shop

Subtle Le Nguyen

Hidden down a quiet cul-de-sac in an unassuming neighbourhood, this boutique by a local designer offers avant-garde clothing and accessories in a monochrome palette and beautiful fabrications. I left with a cream shearling corset and was served by a lovely Sydney-sider.

Three Sisters Silk

Right in the heart of the Old Quarter, this family-run silk shop is overflowing with every colour and style imaginable. Perfect for silk slip dresses and pyjamas, just be ready to sift through the racks.

Gia Studios

In the “Paris end” of Hanoi, Gia Studios is immaculate, minimal and refined - think a Vietnamese version of The Row. Prices reflect the craftsmanship, but every piece is beautifully designed and made.

Cuasochoiboi

An absolute must-visit. Hidden through a working barber shop and up a flight of stairs, you’ll find a treasure trove of vintage sunglasses stacked floor-to-ceiling including Celine, Gentle Monster, Moscot, and plenty of obscure one-offs from every brand making sunglasses. There’s also a second store around the corner with an even bigger selection. I came home with a chic pair of Miu Miu frames for $190 AUD.

Local Tailors

Bring your favourite pieces and have them remade in Vietnamese silk or linen by Hanoi’s skilled local tailors. They can often turn things around within 24–48 hours, but allow at least three days for a couple of fittings to get things exactly how you want them. We went to Hoa Fashion and had a great experience but would recommend choosing somewhere close to where you’re staying for multiple visits and read Google reviews.

Eat & Drink

Tầm Vị

Awarded a Michelin Star, this super tasty traditional Vietnamese restaurant serves refined local dishes in a moody, wood-panelled setting. Book ahead and don’t miss the fresh peanuts, fried tofu, crab spring rolls, and cabbage rolls stuffed with minced meat.

Sadhu

A serene, high-end vegetarian restaurant that’s as beautiful as it is delicious. An abundant buffet is served by waitstaff featuring colourful, creative dishes that could convert even the biggest meat lovers. It gets especially busy on full moon and first-of-month days, when locals traditionally eat vegetarian, so book ahead.

Giao Mùa Coffee

A quirky, six level café with curved plaster walls, a tight winding staircase and leafy balconies — perfect for people-watching over an egg coffee (coffee custard) or iced Vietnamese coffee with condensed milk. Order at the entrance, find your spot, and settle in.

Nagocha Matcha

Located in the West Lake area, this tranquil teahouse is heaven for matcha lovers. The matcha is sourced directly from Japan, and the setting is minimalist, airy, and calm, ideal for an afternoon escape.

Yazawa - Wagyu Omakase

A decadent wagyu experience set in an architecturally designed, low-lit dining room in comfortable banquets. Service was impeccable from the person waiting for our car with an umbrella in the rain to the chefs and entire team bowing on entry and departure. Choose a signature course menu and prepare for melt-in-your-mouth slices of beef cut and cooked with precision before you.

Street Food

You’ll find locals perched on tiny plastic stools across Hanoi, enjoying soups, noodles or eating bánh mì loaded with fresh herbs. If it’s busy, it’s probably good - follow the crowds and dive in.

Do & Explore

Grab

Download Grab — Vietnam’s version of Uber. It’s cheap, reliable, and the easiest way to get around the city any time of the day or night with cars arriving in 2-5 minutes.

Flower Market

For a late-night, non-party activity, visit Hanoi’s wholesale flower market. It’s lively, colourful and great for a post dinner and drinks wind down before bed.

May Kitchenware

A serene, beautifully designed two-storey homewares store with a café. Try a coconut iced coffee, then browse the plethora of ceramics and kitchenware and decide what might safely make the trip home in your suitcase.