InterContinental Hanoi Westlake by IHG

InterContinental Hanoi Westlake by IHG Overview

You know what struck me most about the InterContinental Hanoi Westlake? It’s actually sitting right on West Lake – like, literally on the water. I mean, when they say lakefront, they usually mean you can sort of see water if you crane your neck, but this place has its lobby practically floating above Tay Ho. The whole building curves along the shoreline in this modern glass arc that honestly looks pretty stunning against all the traditional Vietnamese architecture scattered around the neighborhood.

The location on Tu Hoa Street is perfect if you want to experience Hanoi without being in the thick of the Old Quarter chaos – though you’re only about 15 minutes away when you do want that energy. What I loved is how you can walk out the front door and immediately you’re in this area where locals are doing their morning tai chi by the lake, street vendors are setting up their pho stalls, and there’s this authentic rhythm that most five-star hotels completely miss. The staff actually knows the good local spots too, which is rare – they sent me to this incredible bun cha place about three streets over that I never would’ve found otherwise.

Inside, it feels substantial without being stuffy. The rooms facing the lake (and trust me, pay the extra for these) have floor-to-ceiling windows that frame the water beautifully, especially during sunset when the whole lake turns golden. I stayed on the 15th floor and could watch the dragon boats practicing in the early morning – there’s something really peaceful about having your coffee while the city slowly wakes up below you. The beds are properly comfortable, not just hotel-firm, and the bathrooms have those deep soaking tubs that actually fit a normal-sized human being. Small thing, but the WiFi is genuinely fast throughout the building, even by the pool area.

Speaking of which – the pool deck is where this place really shines. It’s on the third floor overlooking the lake, and during the late afternoon it catches this perfect breeze that makes the Hanoi heat actually manageable. I spent way more time there than I planned, just because it felt like being on a luxury boat rather than stuck in a hotel. The service is attentive without being hovering – they remember your drink order, but they’re not constantly asking if everything’s okay every five minutes. Honestly, the whole operation runs smoothly, from check-in (which was genuinely quick) to the concierge who helped me navigate the weekend traffic to get to Halong Bay.

Is it perfect? Well, the breakfast gets pretty crowded during peak season – apparently it’s popular with tour groups – so if you’re staying in March through May, maybe head down before 8 AM. And while the hotel itself is quiet, Tu Hoa Street can get a bit noisy with motorbikes during rush hour, though the double-glazed windows handle most of it. But really, for a five-star stay in Hanoi that gives you both luxury and genuine local flavor, this place delivers. That 8.6 rating makes sense – it’s the kind of hotel that makes you want to extend your stay just to enjoy it a bit longer.

InterContinental Hanoi Westlake by IHG Accommodations

Reviews of InterContinental Hanoi Westlake by IHG

• Richa from Singapore – 20 May 2025 (9/10)

  Property is so beautiful and has a good location with a nice lake view .. breakfast was good and staff were very polite .. overall a nice stay close to west lake
  
  What could be improved: N/A as Everything was great

• James from Australia – 19 May 2025 (9/10)

  Amazing stay, great location for those wanting to stay just outside the hustle and bustle of the city. Facilities are amazing and the buffet breakfast is as good as it gets. The staff are very helpful and professional.

• Ellice from United Kingdom – 17 May 2025 (9/10)

  Staff friendly and helpful.
  
  What could be improved: Nothing to dislike.

• Elizabeth from South Korea – 7 May 2025 (9/10)

  Beautiful hotel and view of West Lake. Delicious breakfast. Quiet neighborhood. Wonderful staff.

• Joshua from United Kingdom – 2 May 2025 (9/10)

  Room
  
  What could be improved: Nothing

• Carolyn from United States – 27 April 2025 (9/10)

  Best hotel breakfast I’ve ever had. I stayed at two other hotels in Vietnam and this one had the most quality and quantity especially in cultures.

• Erica from Australia – 21 April 2025 (9/10)

  The beautiful rooms, staff,
  Pool, restaurants- everything
  
  What could be improved: Loved everything

• Laura from United Kingdom – 13 April 2025 (9/10)

  We arrived late from the airport and they were kind enough to keep the restaurant open late for us as we two very hungry children. Great service, beautiful views and the food at the restaurants was outstanding.

• Colin from United Kingdom – 7 April 2025 (9/10)

  Restaurants were very good. Food was excellent and enjoyed dining in.
  
  What could be improved: N/A

• Abdolreza from United Kingdom – 6 April 2025 (9/10)

  Beautiful hotel with exceptional service. It is located in a quiet scenic area away from the hustle and bustle of Hanoi yet within easy reach with a short taxi ride.
  
  What could be improved: Everything was fantastic

Surroundings

Facilities