A New Milestone for Vietnam’s Luxury Hospitality Scene
Hanoi, a city known for its timeless charm and rich cultural heritage, has further cemented its status as a top-tier luxury destination. Two of its most esteemed hotels—Capella Hanoi and Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi—have received the coveted five-star rating from Forbes Travel Guide 2025.
This recognition places these properties among the finest in the world, highlighting their exceptional service, sophisticated design, and ability to offer guests an unforgettable experience.
Capella Hanoi: An Opera-Inspired Retreat
Designed by renowned architect Bill Bensley, Capella Hanoi is a celebration of the city’s artistic heritage. Located in Hanoi’s Old Quarter, just a short walk from the iconic Hanoi Opera House, the hotel is a tribute to the golden age of opera.
What Makes Capella Hanoi Stand Out?
- Opera-Themed Luxury: Each of the 47 individually designed suites is adorned with vintage opera memorabilia, offering guests an immersive experience in a bygone era.
- Curated Dining & Cocktails: The Backstage Restaurant serves elevated Vietnamese cuisine, while Diva’s Lounge offers handcrafted cocktails inspired by legendary opera performers.
- World-Class Spa & Wellness: The Auriga Spa focuses on holistic wellness, blending traditional Vietnamese therapies with contemporary relaxation techniques.
- Prime Location: Situated near Hoan Kiem Lake, the Temple of Literature, and Hanoi’s vibrant night markets, the hotel provides easy access to the city’s cultural landmarks.
For those seeking a refined yet artistic stay, Capella Hanoi seamlessly blends history, luxury, and an intimate boutique hotel experience.

Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi: A Legacy of Elegance
Originally opened in 1901, Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi is one of Southeast Asia’s most historic hotels. Over the years, it has hosted world leaders, literary icons, and celebrities, making it a symbol of French colonial grandeur in Vietnam.
Forbes Travel Guide describes it as a “supremely beautiful hotel” that “weaves a rich, nostalgic guest experience,” perfectly capturing its unique blend of history and modern luxury.
What Sets Sofitel Metropole Apart?
- French Colonial Architecture: Elegant interiors, wrought-iron balconies, and beautifully preserved details transport guests to another era.
- Exceptional Dining:
- Le Beaulieu offers classic French fine dining in an elegant setting.
- Angelina is a contemporary whisky and cocktail lounge, perfect for an upscale night out.
- La Terrasse provides a charming Parisian café experience.
- Historic War-Era Bunker: A hidden underground bunker, once used by famous guests such as Joan Baez during the Vietnam War, offers a rare glimpse into the past.
- Luxurious Wellness & Leisure: The hotel’s colonial-style pool, lush courtyards, and award-winning spa provide a tranquil escape from Hanoi’s bustling streets.
- Unbeatable Location: Situated near Hanoi’s Opera House, Hoan Kiem Lake, and the city’s upscale shopping districts, guests have easy access to cultural and leisure experiences.
For those looking to experience timeless sophistication in the heart of Hanoi, Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi remains an unrivaled choice.

What Defines a Forbes Five-Star Hotel?
Earning a five-star rating from Forbes Travel Guide is a mark of excellence and distinction. The global hospitality authority evaluates hotels based on 900 rigorous standards, covering service, design, and the overall guest experience.
According to Forbes, five-star hotels must be:
- Icons of hospitality, offering world-class service
- Flawless in guest experience and attention to detail
- Masters at blending history, culture, and luxury
With only a handful of hotels in Vietnam achieving this prestigious status, Capella Hanoi and Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi represent the pinnacle of Vietnamese luxury hospitality.
Hanoi: A Destination for Luxury Travel
Beyond its award-winning hotels, Hanoi is quickly gaining recognition as a leading destination for luxury travellers. Visitors can enjoy:
- The Old Quarter – A mix of historic architecture, lively street markets, and boutique shopping.
- Hoan Kiem Lake & Ngoc Son Temple – A picturesque spot perfect for morning walks and cultural exploration.
- The Train Street Experience – A unique café-lined railway where trains pass just inches from visitors.
- Street Food & Fine Dining – From traditional pho and bun cha to Michelin-starred Vietnamese cuisine, Hanoi offers a diverse culinary landscape.
For those looking to immerse themselves in history, culture, and world-class hospitality, Hanoi provides an experience like no other.
Find travel recommendations at: vietnam.travel
Final Thoughts
The five-star recognition of Capella Hanoi and Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi further establishes Hanoi as a premier luxury destination. Whether you are drawn to Capella’s artistic elegance or Metropole’s timeless grandeur, both hotels promise an unforgettable stay.
For discerning travellers looking for the perfect blend of culture, history, and impeccable service, Hanoi’s hospitality scene continues to set new global standards.
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