Hanoi’s Autumn is a magical time, often considered the city’s most beautiful season. If someone asks, “What’s beautiful about Hanoi’s Autumn?” I can tell them about Phan Dinh Phung Street with its falling yellow leaves, about the West Lake’s surface cooling in the late afternoon sun, and about the streets filled with the fragrant scent of milk flowers…

I. How is the weather in Hanoi’s Autumn 

Hanoi’s autumn weather is mild and pleasant, typically lasting from late September to November. During this time, temperatures range between 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F), making it more comfortable. The skies are usually clear with soft golden sunlight, and the humidity levels drop, creating a refreshing atmosphere. Gentle breezes are common, and occasional light rains add to the overall charm of the season. Autumn in Hanoi is often considered the best time to visit due to its ideal weather.

II. Hanoi’s autumn offers a variety of beautiful scenery that captures the essence of the season

1. Phan Dinh Phung Street

Lined with majestic old trees, this street becomes a picturesque scene with golden leaves falling gently onto the sidewalks, creating a romantic atmosphere.

2. Hoan Kiem Lake

The tranquil waters of the lake reflect the soft, golden sunlight, surrounded by trees with leaves turning yellow and orange, offering a peaceful escape in the heart of the city.

3. West Lake 

In the late afternoon, the lake’s surface shimmers under the fading sunlight, creating a serene and calming view, perfect for a leisurely stroll.

4. Milk Flower Streets

Streets like Nguyen Du and Quang Trung are filled with the sweet, nostalgic fragrance of hoa sữa (milk flowers), which bloom during autumn, adding a unique charm to the city.

5. Old Quarter and Mid-Autumn Festival

The historic streets of the Old Quarter are even more enchanting in autumn, with the cooler weather and festive atmosphere, especially during the Mid-Autumn Festival.

Cultural experiences during Hanoi’s autumn are also enriched by the Mid-Autumn Festival, or Tết Trung Thu, which usually falls in September or October. This festival is celebrated with colorful lantern processions, lion dances, and mooncakes. The streets are adorned with festive decorations, and children eagerly participate in traditional activities.

6. Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum

The green lawns contrast beautifully with the autumnal colors of the surrounding trees, creating a picturesque setting. Whether you’re visiting early in the morning to witness the flag-raising ceremony or later in the day, the mausoleum’s grand structure, combined with the gentle ambiance of autumn, makes for a memorable experience.

7. St. Joseph’s Cathedral

The Gothic architecture of the cathedral is beautifully contrasted with the surrounding autumn foliage, making it a perfect spot for photography. The area around the cathedral, with its charming cafes and narrow streets, also feels more romantic and inviting, offering a perfect setting for a leisurely stroll or a quiet moment to take in the season’s beauty.

III. Specialities of Hanoi’s Autumn

1. Cốm (Green Rice)

Made from young sticky rice, cốm is a quintessential autumn treat in Hanoi. It’s usually eaten as a snack, wrapped in lotus leaves, which adds a delicate fragrance. Cốm can also be found in various forms like bánh cốm (green rice cake) and chè cốm (green rice sweet soup).

Prices range from 40,000 to 60,000 VND (about 1.70 to 2.50 USD) per portion.

2. Sấu (Dracontomelon)

This sour fruit is often used in dishes and drinks during autumn. Sấu can be pickled, made into a refreshing drink, or cooked into sweet and sour dishes, adding a unique tangy flavor.

Price is around 30,000 to 50,000 VND (about 1.25 to 2 USD) per kilogram.

3. Persimmons

Autumn is the season for sweet, ripe persimmons in Hanoi. These bright orange fruits are enjoyed fresh or dried and are a popular seasonal snack.

Price: about 2.10 to 3 USD per kilogram.

4. Ốc nóng (Hot Snails)

As the weather cools down, hot snails become a favorite street food. Served with a spicy, tangy dipping sauce, this dish is perfect for enjoying the crisp autumn evenings.

Price: about 2.10 to 3.40 USD per serving.

5. Chả rươi (Sandworm Omelet)

A unique and traditional dish made from rươi (sand worms) mixed with eggs, dill, and other ingredients, then fried into a savory omelet. It’s a delicacy that’s only available for a short time during autumn.

Price: about 3.40 to 5.10 USD per serving

6. Egg Coffee

Enjoying egg coffee in Hanoi’s autumn is a particularly cozy and delightful experience. The crisp, cool air and gentle autumn light create the perfect backdrop for savoring this unique drink.

Popular spots to enjoy egg coffee in Hanoi during autumn include:

• Café Giảng: The original creator’s café, renowned for its traditional preparation of egg coffee.
• Café Đinh: Known for its cozy atmosphere and excellent egg coffee.
• Café Pho Co: Offers a scenic view of the Old Quarter and a rich cup of egg coffee.

Price: about 2 to 3 USD per cup

In Hanoi’s Autumn, the city’s streets are blanketed with golden leaves, and the air grows cooler. The scent of milk flowers lingers, and cozy cafés bustle with people enjoying egg coffee and traditional treats. The gentle sunlight and crisp air create a serene, picturesque atmosphere.

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