Wellness
Spa & Massage in Hanoi
From no-frills foot massage parlours to full-service spas in restored villas, Hanoi has a massage or spa experience for pretty much any budget and any level of pampering.
3 tiersbudget, mid-range, luxury
~45–90 mintypical session
Book aheadfor popular spas
Types of massage on offer
- Traditional Vietnamese massage — firm, therapeutic pressure, often combining elements of acupressure; widely available and generally inexpensive.
- Foot massage — extremely popular across the city, often available late into the evening; a good option after a long day of walking.
- Thai-style and oil massage — also common at spas catering to visitors, usually a notch up in price from a basic foot massage parlour.
- Hot stone, aromatherapy and full spa packages — offered at higher-end spas, often bundled with a sauna, steam room or soak.
Roughly what to expect to pay
Prices vary hugely by tier. Basic foot or body massage parlours are genuinely cheap by international standards; mid-range spas aimed at visitors cost more but still represent good value against equivalent treatments at home; five-star hotel spas sit at the top end, closer to (or above) prices you'd pay in a major Western city. As with most services in Hanoi, it's worth checking a price list before you commit rather than assuming.
How to spot a reputable place
- Recent, specific reviews (not just a high star rating) are the most reliable signal.
- A clear, visible price list — reputable spas display pricing rather than negotiating on the spot.
- Trained, licensed therapists — better spas will happily explain their staff's training if asked.
- Clean, professional premises — trust your first impression of the space itself.
Good to know: Book ahead for well-reviewed spas, especially in the evening or at weekends — the best ones do get busy, particularly with returning visitors who found them on a previous trip.