Mad Monkey Hanoi

Mad Monkey Hanoi is a backpacker hostel in the middle of the Old Quarter, on Ma May Street, and it is built for travellers who want to meet people. It is part of the Mad Monkey hostel brand, and the formula is simple: affordable beds, a bar and restaurant on site, daily tours and events every night.

Accommodation is mainly in shared dorms, including female-only dorms for those who prefer them. Rooms are air-conditioned, which makes a real difference in Hanoi's hot and humid summers, and reception is open 24 hours, which helps with late arrivals and early departures. Check the official website for the current choice of room types and prices before booking.

The social side is what most guests come for. The bar is the hub of the hostel, and nightly events give solo travellers an easy way to meet others. Daily tours run from the hostel, which is convenient if you want to see the city's sights or join a group outing without organising everything yourself. The restaurant means you can eat on site, although the street food of the Old Quarter is right outside the door.

The location is hard to beat for a budget traveller. Ma May Street is in the heart of the Old Quarter, so street food, cheap bia hoi and nightlife are all within walking distance, including the beer corner at Ta Hien and Luong Ngoc Quyen streets. Hoan Kiem Lake, Ngoc Son Temple and Dong Xuan Market are an easy walk away. Be aware that the area is lively late into the evening, so light sleepers should pack earplugs.

For getting there from Noi Bai Airport, the hostel can arrange a private car, and its website explains that a taxi or ride-hailing car is also an option, with advice to agree on a price before setting off if you take a taxi from the airport desk. Mad Monkey suits solo travellers, young groups and anyone who values atmosphere and company over peace and quiet. If you want a calmer stay, choose a private hotel room elsewhere in the Old Quarter instead.