Looking for the perfect luxury stay in Hanoi? My recent 2-night stay at the InterContinental Hanoi Westlake using IHG free night certificates delivered an unforgettable experience combining Vietnamese charm with five-star comfort. This comprehensive review covers everything you need to know before booking this stunning lakeside property in Vietnam’s bustling capital.
| Category | Rating |
|---|---|
| Location | ★★★★☆ (4/5) |
| Room Quality | ★★★★★ (5/5) |
| Service | ★★★★★ (5/5) |
| Dining | ★★★★☆ (4/5) |
| Amenities | ★★★★☆ (4/5) |
| Value | ★★★★★ (5/5) |
| Overall | ★★★★½ (4.5/5) |
Key Takeaways:
- Unique overwater pavilions on Hanoi’s scenic West Lake
- Exceptional service with personalized touches
- Three distinctive restaurants offering Vietnamese and international cuisine
- Peaceful retreat just 15 minutes from Hanoi’s Old Quarter
- Excellent value when using IHG reward nights
Location and First Impressions: Lakeside Tranquility Near Hanoi's Heart ★★★★☆
Arriving at the InterContinental Hanoi Westlake after navigating the vibrant streets of Vietnam’s capital, I was immediately struck by the property’s serene atmosphere. Unlike most urban hotels, this InterContinental embraces its natural surroundings, with elegant structures extending into the tranquil waters of West Lake (Tây Hồ).
The modern Vietnamese-influenced architecture creates a striking first impression. The main building connects to several overwater pavilions via wooden walkways, creating a resort-like feel despite being just 15 minutes from Hanoi’s historic Old Quarter.
Check-in was effortless and welcoming, with attentive staff offering cool towels and a refreshing welcome drink infused with local flavors – the perfect antidote to Hanoi’s humidity. The front desk team efficiently processed my IHG free night certificates while providing a comprehensive orientation to the property.
Accommodation: Overwater Pavilion Room Experience ★★★★★
Using my IHG free night certificates, I was able to book an Overwater Pavilion room – a significant upgrade from standard accommodations. These sought-after rooms normally range from $260-300 per night, making them excellent value when using reward nights.
My pavilion room (approximately 60 square meters) featured:
- Floor-to-ceiling windows showcasing panoramic lake views
- A supremely comfortable king-sized bed with premium linens
- Spacious work desk with convenient power outlets
- Elegant bathroom with deep soaking tub positioned by a window
- Separate rainfall shower and twin vanities
- High-quality toiletries in eco-friendly packaging
- In-room Nespresso machine and tea service
- Fast, reliable Wi-Fi and large smart TV
- Intuitive room controls for lighting and climate
The room’s thoughtful design incorporated subtle Vietnamese elements through artwork and decorative objects, creating a sense of place without sacrificing modern luxury. Waking up to misty morning views across West Lake provided a peaceful start to each day exploring Hanoi.
Dining at InterContinental Hanoi Westlake: From Local Flavors to International Cuisine ★★★★☆
For travelers seeking authentic Vietnamese cuisine and international options, the InterContinental Hanoi Westlake offers three distinct restaurants:
Saigon Restaurant: Specializing in Vietnamese cuisine, Saigon Restaurant provides an elegant introduction to local flavors. Don’t miss their breakfast pho bo (beef noodle soup) – starting the day with this traditional dish feels authentically Hanoi. Their bun cha (grilled pork with rice noodles) rivals versions found in the city’s famous street food stalls.
Milan Restaurant: When craving Western cuisine, Milan serves Italian classics with attention to authentic techniques. The handmade pasta dishes and wood-fired pizzas provide a comforting alternative when you need a break from Vietnamese cuisine.
Café du Lac: This French-inspired venue became my favorite spot for casual dining and afternoon refreshments. Their pastries and cakes pair perfectly with Vietnamese coffee, especially when enjoyed on the terrace overlooking the lake.
The Sunset Bar, set on its own overwater pavilion accessed via a torch-lit walkway, offers one of Hanoi’s most atmospheric settings for evening cocktails. Their signature drinks incorporate local ingredients like Vietnamese cinnamon, lemongrass, and tropical fruits. Watching the sunset here while sipping expertly crafted cocktails was a highlight of my stay.
Amenities and Facilities: Resort-Style Luxury in the City ★★★★☆
Despite being an urban property, the InterContinental Hanoi Westlake offers amenities that rival destination resorts:
Swimming Pool: The infinity-edge outdoor pool faces West Lake, creating the illusion of swimming directly into the water. Comfortable loungers and attentive pool service make this an ideal spot for afternoon relaxation.
Spa and Wellness: The hotel’s spa combines traditional Vietnamese treatments with modern techniques. My “Vietnamese Heritage” massage ($85) used warm bamboo and aromatic oils sourced from northern Vietnam, leaving me completely rejuvenated.
Fitness Center: The well-equipped gym features modern cardio and strength training equipment. Complimentary yoga sessions are offered on select mornings by the lake – a peaceful way to start the day.
Club InterContinental: For those booking club-level rooms or suites, this exclusive lounge offers additional benefits including private check-in/out, afternoon tea, evening cocktails, and concierge services.
Service Excellence: The InterContinental Difference ★★★★★
What elevates the InterContinental Hanoi Westlake above other luxury hotels in Vietnam is its exceptional service culture. Despite using free night certificates, I received the same attentive service as full-paying guests. Staff members remembered my preferences, anticipated needs, and consistently demonstrated genuine warmth.
Notable service touches included:
- Personalized greeting cards left during evening turndown service
- Restaurant staff remembering my beverage preferences from previous meals
- Concierge arranging a last-minute private tour to Bat Trang ceramic village
- Housekeeping timing room service around my schedule
- Front desk staff assisting with translation for shopping receipts
Location Advantages and Considerations for Travelers
The InterContinental’s location on West Lake offers both benefits and considerations for travelers to Hanoi:
Advantages:
- Peaceful escape from Hanoi’s energetic (but sometimes overwhelming) center
- Morning walks around West Lake provide authentic glimpses of local life
- Proximity to Tay Ho district’s emerging restaurant and café scene
- Clean air and reduced noise compared to central districts
Considerations:
- 15-minute taxi ride to Hanoi’s Old Quarter and major attractions
- Limited street food options in immediate vicinity
- Fewer budget dining options compared to central districts
The hotel offers a regular shuttle service to the Old Quarter, though taxis in Hanoi are plentiful and inexpensive (typically $3-5 to most attractions). For travelers seeking balance between sightseeing convenience and peaceful accommodation, this location works perfectly.
Value Assessment: Making the Most of IHG Free Night Certificates
Using IHG free night certificates at the InterContinental Hanoi Westlake represents exceptional value. My Overwater Pavilion room would have cost approximately $200 per night during my stay. Standard rooms in the main building typically range from $150-180 per night, while suites can exceed $300.
For IHG One Rewards members, this property delivers outstanding returns on points or certificate redemptions compared to many other Southeast Asian destinations. When considering the quality of accommodations, service level, and overall experience, the InterContinental Hanoi Westlake provides excellent value even at standard rates.
Sustainability Initiatives Worth Noting
Environmentally conscious travelers will appreciate the hotel’s sustainability efforts:
- Elimination of single-use plastics throughout the property
- Locally sourced ingredients in restaurant menus
- Water conservation and energy efficiency programs
- Community engagement through support of local artisans
- Eco-friendly room amenities and practices
These initiatives align with increasing traveler demand for responsible luxury without compromising comfort or experience quality.
Minor Considerations for Future Guests
In the interest of providing a balanced review, a few minor considerations worth noting:
- Wi-Fi strength varied somewhat in the overwater pavilions compared to the main building
- The property’s distance from central Hanoi might not suit travelers with limited time
- Some pavilion rooms have better views than others (request high-numbered rooms for optimal perspectives)
Final Verdict: Is the InterContinental Hanoi Westlake Worth Booking?
For travelers seeking luxury accommodation in Hanoi that offers a genuine sense of place while maintaining international standards, the InterContinental Hanoi Westlake exceeds expectations. Whether using IHG free night certificates (as I did) or booking with cash, this property provides a memorable base for exploring Vietnam’s fascinating capital.
What distinguishes this hotel is its ability to serve as both a destination itself and an excellent platform for experiencing Hanoi. The serenity of returning to a lakeside retreat after exploring the city’s energetic streets creates a perfectly balanced travel experience.
The InterContinental Hanoi Westlake earns 4.5 out of 5 stars from Our Travel Journey, with particular recognition for:
- Unique overwater pavilion concept
- Exceptional, personalized service
- Culinary excellence across all venues
- Thoughtful integration of Vietnamese cultural elements
