Legendary Luxury
- Kendra Hearn, Ph.D.
- Aug 20
- 3 min read
Updated: Aug 21
📍Hotel: Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi
⭐️ Vibe Check: history meets modern luxury
🛏️ Stayed: 25 July 2025
🎒 Traveler Type: Solo | Couple | Family | Business | Luxe | Culture-First
✊🏾 Black Traveler Notes: Welcoming and inviting. Top-notch service.
First, let me shoutout Jina and the entire team at Aurora Travel for selecting and making my accommodation arrangements for my entire trip, including my stay at Sofitel Legend Hanoi Metropole. Everything was impeccable. If you are thinking of a trip to Vietnam or southeast Asia, let me connect you with Jina. She and all of the folks at Aurora are sure to attend to all of the details for a fabulous journey just like mine!
Second, let me make a confession. While I was aware of the French occupation of Vietnam, I didn't realize how much French culture took root in Vietnam and is evident everywhere, especially in the architecture and cuisine. This hotel is but one example of the French fusion in Vietnam.
First Impressions
Staying at the Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi was like stepping into a living piece of history wrapped in modern luxury. From the moment I arrived, I could sense why this hotel has earned its legendary status.
It's more than just a place to stay, it’s an experience that tells the story of Hanoi itself.
The grand colonial façade instantly transports you to another era, yet the warm Vietnamese hospitality makes you feel right at home. I loved how the hotel balances timeless French elegance with contemporary comfort. Walking through the lobby felt like entering a curated museum of Indochinese heritage with the attentive service of a five-star property. If by chance you are in the mood for a Hérmes haul, there's a store right on the property! 😉
The Room
My room was a blend of classic sophistication and thoughtful modern touches. From the plush bedding to the marble bathroom and refined decor, every detail reflected the hotel’s commitment to luxury. Despite its historic setting, the technology and amenities were seamless, making it just as functional as it was beautiful. Larger rooms/suites come outfitted with a clever bar housed in an attractive armoire.
Dining & Amenities
Dining at Metropole is an experience in itself. Whether enjoying French fine dining at Le Beaulieu, authentic Vietnamese flavors at Spices Garden, or an evening cocktail in the iconic Bamboo Bar, each venue felt like a chapter in Hanoi’s cultural story. The breakfast spread was one of the most impressive I’ve seen, with both Western and Asian options that catered to every taste.
The hotel’s pool and wellness offerings provide a quiet retreat from the bustle of the city. And of course, one of the most fascinating aspects is the historic bomb shelter tour—a unique reminder of the resilience of the city and the hotel’s role in Vietnam’s past.
Location
Situated in the heart of Hanoi’s French Quarter, the Metropole is perfectly located. You could stroll to the Opera House, Hoan Kiem Lake, and countless shops and cafés within minutes. Yet, once inside, it felt worlds away from the chaos of city life.
Final Thoughts
The Metropole felt like an embrace of the city’s history, elegance, and soul. It’s the kind of place that lingers with you long after checkout, and one I’d recommend to any traveler seeking the ultimate Hanoi experience.
🖤🖤🖤🖤🖤
Book your stay at Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi using my affiliate link on Expedia:
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