A Living Museum of History

Built by two French investors, André Ducamp and Gustave-Émile Dumoutier, the Metropole opened its doors in 1901 as the first five-star hotel in Indochina. The hotel’s architecture is a masterpiece of neoclassical design – white columns, wrought-iron balconies, and a cream-yellow facade that has become an icon of Hanoi. Over the decades, it has welcomed Charlie Chaplin (on his honeymoon in 1936), Graham Greene (who wrote “The Quiet American” here), Somerset Maugham, and countless heads of state, including US Presidents and the late Queen Elizabeth II.

The hotel’s 364 rooms and suites are divided between the historic “Metropole Wing” and the more contemporary “Opera Wing.” The “Legendary Suites” – the Charlie Chaplin Suite, the Graham Greene Suite, and the Somerset Maugham Suite – are meticulously preserved time capsules, with original furnishings and photographs. Every room features a blend of French-colonial charm and modern amenities, including marble bathrooms, silk robes, and butler service for suites.

Culinary Excellence – From Le Beaulieu to Spices Garden

The hotel is home to several exceptional dining venues. “Le Beaulieu” is the signature French restaurant, serving classic cuisine in an elegant, wood-paneled dining room. The tasting menu, “Metropole Heritage,” is a culinary journey through the hotel’s history. “Spices Garden” offers authentic Vietnamese dishes in a beautiful courtyard setting – the “phở bò” is legendary. “La Terrasse” is a relaxed café overlooking the street, perfect for people-watching and afternoon tea. “Angelina” is a chic cocktail bar and lounge, named after a famous guest.

Metropole Spa – A Sanctuary of Serenity

The Metropole Spa is a serene retreat in the hotel’s courtyard. Treatments draw on Vietnamese and French wellness traditions, using local ingredients such as lotus, ginger, and green tea. The signature treatment, “Metropole Indulgence,” is a 2.5-hour journey that includes a body scrub, a warm oil massage, and a rejuvenating facial. The spa also features a steam room, sauna, and relaxation lounge.

Exploring Hanoi – From the Hotel’s Doorstep

The hotel is ideally located on Ngo Quyen Street, just steps from the Hanoi Opera House, Hoan Kiem Lake, and the Old Quarter. The hotel’s concierge can arrange private tours to the Temple of Literature, the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, the Museum of Ethnology, and the Bat Trang ceramic village. For a longer excursion, the hotel can arrange day trips to Ha Long Bay, Ninh Binh, or the Perfume Pagoda.

Awards & Accolades

Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi has been consistently recognized as one of the best hotels in the world by Condé Nast Traveler, Travel + Leisure, and Forbes Travel Guide. In 2025, it received the “Best Heritage Hotel in Asia” award at the World Travel Awards. The hotel’s restaurant, Le Beaulieu, was awarded a Michelin star in 2026.