Situated right in the heart of Hanoi, Sofitel Legend Metropole is often hailed as the city’s most storied hotel. The grande dame has welcomed guests since 1901, with timeless elegance and a century-long tradition of hospitality.
Opened in 1901, Sofitel Legend Metropole is the oldest hotel in Hanoi. This historic property, just a few steps away from the iconic Hanoi Opera House, has long been a rendezvous point for playwrights, ambassadors, and state leaders from around the world. Most recently, it served as the venue for the North Korea-United States Summit. Today, the hotel is an icon of Hanoi – elegant in style and rich in history.
The Architecture
With white stuccos, forest green shutters, and a Paris-inspired cafe, the Sofitel Legend Metropole is a magnificent example of French colonial architecture in Hanoi. The hotel consists of 364 rooms, which are divided into two stately wings: the Metropole and the Opera.
The Metropole Wing is what is left of the original hotel. It blends classic French and Vietnamese architectural styles. Meanwhile, the Opera Wing – which was built in the 1990s – displays the influences of Neoclassicism. It is tastefully decorated with wooden furniture and design elements of this period. The two wings embrace a manicured courtyard where a pool and an orangery are located – a peaceful oasis in the center of the hectic capital.
The Room
Leaving the marble lobby behind, the receptionist led us to our room in the Opera Wing. It is bright and gracefully furnished with dark wooden furniture and Neoclassical decorations. The room overlooks a luxuriant garden which offers a stark contrast to the surrounding white walls. The only bursts of colors come from the vivid red armchair and the equally stylish bathroom. Some Asian-style vases and tea sets are also added, bringing a familiar touch to this elegant chamber.
The Food
With six restaurants and bars, the Sofitel Legend Metropole offers a wide choice of dishes, from French food to Vietnamese cuisine. In the end, we chose the newly renovated Angelina – a contemporary piece in this historic structure.
The sophisticated bar-restaurant represents the mix between Europe and America, with every dish and cocktail being a feast for all senses. Additionally, there is a spectacular whiskey collection standing at the center of the bar. It fills up a two-story shelf and can certainly impress any patron.
DISCLAIMER:
This post is written based on my personal experience. It was neither sponsored nor solicited by the Sofitel Legend Metropole or any third party. All texts and pictures reflect my own opinions. They are provided solely for informational purposes. I will not be liable for any errors or damages by making use of this information.
What a lovely hotel! It always feels special to stay at a place with a long history, especially one that has a strong connection to the city where it is located. I can’t help thinking of those who have stayed at the same property many years ago every time I go to such historical hotel. Glad the building that is used as Sofitel Legend Metropole is still standing to this day.
I must say Hanoi authority does better job in preserve the heritages than those in Saigon. Most prominent architectures and districts in Hanoi are left intact. Historic mansions and villas are often used as embassies 🙂
That is exactly why I’ve been dreaming of visiting Hanoi. But so far I’ve only been to the south and central parts of Vietnam. Maybe next time when the pandemic is over.
I have such a strong memory of this place Len, although I never stayed there. We have a friend who lived for a while in Hanoi and she took us to dinner at a fabulous local restaurant we would not have otherwise found. It was a huge place and we had a table outdoors next to a river. We dined royally on snake’s head fish and all kinds of vegetables, and various drinks of course. It cost us $10 each. Then we went to the Metropole for dessert. We sat at a low table in a bar, and had a dish that was chocolate sauce on chocolate and vanilla ice cream on chocolate cake with chocolate dipping sauce on the side. It has Charlie Chaplin as part of the name, and was magnificent. It also cost us $10 each 🙂
Alison
The price for “Charlie Chaplin” must be doubled now 🙂 It’s indeed over the top. I guess we mainly paid for the fancy atmosphere and the prime location.
Well I certainly understand enjoying the fancy atmosphere. We were there in 2010 so I’d not be surprised if the price had doubled.
A.
Such a stunning hotel! I love the architecture and the interiors… it’s modern yet historical. Love places like these… not sure it would be within my budget for a potential (and much desired) trip to Hanoi in the future. But just for one night maybe😜 Amazing photography, as always!
Many thanks! 😀
This hotel must be a great as what you´ve described Len, otherwise it won´t land in your Blog. Lovely interiors, a heritage indeed that is worth to be shared with travellers and tourists.I would love to experience such luxury and taste those delectable foods.
How´s their beds? I am sure they don´t have double quilts and mattresses as what we have over here! Hahah..
Quite contrary 🙂 Their mattresses and pillows are very comfy. Even better than mine at home. But that’s the Opera Wing. Perhaps they still have old bed frames in the Historic Wing.