The routes at a glance
| Route | Distance | Surface and terrain | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hoan Kiem Lake loop | about 1.6 km for the lake alone; 5.06 km loop with nearby streets (Komoot) | paved footpath, flat | warm-up, short run |
| West Lake (Tay Ho) | about 15 km, 2 hours, easy (GoRunningTours) | lakeside paths and roads, flat | long morning run |
| Old Quarter "past and present" | 10 km | busy streets, flat | sightseeing, flexible pace |
| Hanoi in one run | 21 km | streets plus some car-free sections | experienced runners |
Practical tips
- Time: early morning. Guides recommend it for West Lake, which is popular with walkers and cyclists; running clockwise is suggested.
- Hoan Kiem: one Komoot tip says the north side is very crowded on Sundays.
- Traffic: light to moderate on West Lake, heavier at main junctions; in the Old Quarter keep an eye on scooters.
- Air: quality changes a lot with the season; check our Hanoi air pollution page before a long run.
Races and clubs
For an official race see the Hanoi marathon. On a rest day the bike ride around West Lake passes the same pagodas without the running. To sleep by the lake see hotels in Tay Ho.
FAQ
Where can I run in Hanoi?
Around Hoan Kiem Lake for a short loop, around West Lake for about 15 km.
What is the best time to run in Hanoi?
Early morning, when traffic and heat are lower.
Can I run in the Old Quarter?
Yes, but the streets are busy: keep a flexible pace and watch for scooters.
The Hanoi Authority editorial team
