Located in the heart of the Vietnamese capital, the Sofitel Metropole Hanoi is an iconic hotel with Belle Epoque charm. This historic luxury hotel offers its guests high-end services, including an excellent French restaurant, a trendy cocktail bar, and a delicious poolside breakfast. For moments of relaxation, visitors can enjoy a peaceful inner garden and a renowned spa, making this hotel a true haven of serenity in the heart of Hanoi.
In the Heart of the French Quarter
The Sofitel Metropole Hanoi enjoys an exceptional location in the French Quarter, just a few steps away from the French Opera. Ideally situated for exploring Hanoi, this establishment is only a 10-minute walk from Old Hanoi and its main points of interest. This privileged position allows visitors to easily explore the city and immerse themselves in the cultural and historical richness of the Vietnamese capital.
A Historic Establishment
Opened in 1901, the 5-star hotel transports its visitors back to the era of French Indochina with its unique style and ambiance. The staff, dressed in traditional Ao Dai attire, help recreate this atmosphere of yesteryear.
The majestic facade and luxurious lobby of the hotel captivate from the first steps and invite you to discover its colonial architecture, characterized by the presence of wood, ceiling fans, and louvered windows. I particularly loved the historical charm of the establishment, which is felt at every moment, offering a luxurious and authentic experience in the heart of Hanoi.
Rooms and Suites
The hotel features 364 rooms and suites divided into two distinct wings: the historic Metropole wing, dating from the early 20th century, and the more recent Opera wing, boasting a neoclassical style. We had the opportunity to test the Premium room located in the Opera wing. Although part of the modern wing, its look is entirely in line with the historical charm. In the bathroom, Balmain toiletries add an extra touch of luxury to the guests' experience.
A Breakfast with Local Flavors
The breakfast is a real treat for the taste buds. Offering a varied buffet, guests can savor delicious Vietnamese flavors in the morning or opt for more Western notes. The pastries, of good quality for Vietnam, will delight lovers of morning sweets. The exotic fruits, available in abundance, and the many delicious Vietnamese recipes allow you to start the day with a culinary journey rich in flavors and discoveries.
Our Lunch at Le Beaulieu Restaurant
Le Beaulieu restaurant is a must-visit for lovers of French cuisine. In an elegant and contemporary setting with white, gold, and blue-gray tones, diners can savor perfectly mastered French dishes. During our visit, we had the opportunity to taste a 3-course lunch that was excellent: we started with duck foie gras, followed by New Zealand lamb with Provençal flavors, a real treat. To conclude this beautiful meal, it was hard to resist the selection of French cheeses from Les Frères Marchand. This flawless culinary experience transported us to France for a few hours, offering a memorable gastronomic experience.
And the Others?
The Angelina bar is a must-visit for stylish cocktail enthusiasts. Frequented by tourists and expatriates, this bar attracts with its elegant and modern decor. We settled at the counter before our dinner to enjoy its pleasant and relaxed atmosphere, all while sipping a few cocktails. The bar also offers international cuisine.
The Club Bar is the gathering place for breakfast, but it is also where afternoon teas are served daily.
Another more casual option is the Bamboo Bar, located by the pool, which allows you to dine at any time of the day and also sip a drink during aperitif time.
The Spa
The spa at the Sofitel Metropole Hanoi Hotel offers a true haven of peace and well-being over an area of 4,300 square feet. It has 2 spa suites dedicated to couples and 6 individual cabins, allowing for moments of relaxation and tranquility in an intimate and soothing setting. We did not have the opportunity to try it, maybe next time!
A True Haven of Peace in Hanoi
The establishment offers its guests an oasis of tranquility thanks to its inner garden. This green setting is a true haven of peace where it is pleasant to stroll, away from the frenzy of the Vietnamese capital. The pool, located in the heart of the garden, is ideal for relaxing and cooling off after a day of sightseeing in the city.
For history enthusiasts, there is even a bunker dating back to the Vietnam War that was rediscovered during the hotel's renovation in 2011. It is possible to visit it upon request.
My Opinion
If I had to mention the best asset of the Sofitel Metropole Hanoi, it would undoubtedly be its historical aspect, which is felt from the first steps in the establishment and throughout the stay. Also, its luxurious setting and ideal location make it an ideal hotel for discovering the Vietnamese capital. I also loved the inner garden, which allows you to escape from the city's frenzy and relax for a few hours.
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Practical Information
A big thank you to the Sofitel Legend Metropole for the invitation to discover their establishment. Of course, I remain free in my statements in this article!
About Florence Consul
Editor of Experiences Luxe since 2015, I love discovering new exclusive and authentic experiences all over the world. I left my home country (France) 6 years ago to become a global citizen, traveling 365 days out of the year. I am a foodie person and I make a point of tasting local specialities.