Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi — Hotel in Hà Nội

Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi – Worth Every Cent

I recently turned 50 and treated myself to this stay as a special birthday indulgence, and this turned out to be an amazingly wise, wonderful decision!

Even for a hotel of this caliber, the level of service and individual attention to guests is simply world class. For example, upon arrival, I mentioned my interest in exploring traditional Vietnamese tea culture to my gracious Majordome, Steven; he immediately took it upon himself to locate two traditional teahouses, recommending one more highly than the other, but giving me a second option closer to the hotel.

And—here’s the kicker—worried I might struggle to communicate with the tea master, Steven offered to escort me to the finer teahouse the next afternoon and translate… on his day off. You read that correctly. On his day off.

I was genuinely speechless. While this was a wholly unnecessary offer on his part, it shows the dedication and genuinely rare attention that only “Legend”-ary hotels (and staff) can deliver.

That said, essentially everyone I met in the lounge was exceptional:

Ms Suan checked in with me gracefully while I was working, ensuring I had everything I needed and was the embodiment of providing discreet, unobtrusive, and refined service—another legendary superstar among a team of true all-stars.

Ms Salt went above and beyond at breakfast, crafting me a special bánh mì with their amazing liver pâté—made in-house—even though it was typically unavailable until later in the day.

During other meals, Ms Giang guided me through Vietnamese flavor combinations in detail, helping this admittedly inelegant Westerner balance the characteristic salty, sweet, and spicy Vietnamese flavors in a single dish.

Finally, on Steven’s day off, Majordome An shared his remarkably in-depth knowledge of Buddhism, turning our simple conversation about my other travels in Vietnam into an unexpectedly captivating discussion of religion and spirituality. This, too, became one of the highlights of my stay.

I am not certain you can “manufacture” staff like these, rather… locate naturals and polish them? Even here in Southeast Asia, such team members are “unicorns,” and Metropole management clearly knows how to collect them.

The lounge team’s dedication deserves not just recognition, but a standing ovation from Accor management. It’s this combination of sincerity, professionalism, and elegance that makes the Metropole an exceptional property. It should be obvious at this point, but the staff in the lounge themselves make it eminently worth splurging for an elevated room or suite with access.

Concerning my living quarters, I found the Heritage wing to be exquisitely adorned and was especially taken with the artwork on display throughout (see pics); it was designed exclusively for the property and remains unavailable for sale to the public—yes, I asked. The carvings in the Heritage Wing elevators are equally breathtaking; while I tried, my photos do not really do them justice.

I adored standing out on one of my balconies (yes, there were two) in my plush Metropole bathrobe, situated high above the main hotel entrance, and watching the world go by.

Indeed, it took every bit of self-restraint I could muster not to break into “Don’t Cry for Me Argentina” at the crowds of tourists directly below, stopping by to photograph the building. They never seemed to notice me, much as I secretly hoped they would look up… Perhaps belting out some Joan Baez at them would have been a more fitting choice, given her unique history at the property.

PS: The gentleman polishing shoes in the Heritage Wing lobby deserves special praise and a considerable bonus: my newish white Pumas had collected quite a bit of grime from wandering the streets of Vietnam, but he somehow restored them to brand-new...

My stay at the Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi was a truly exceptional experience, combining old-world charm, timeless elegance, and impeccable service. Nestled in the heart of the city, this iconic hotel seamlessly blends French colonial architecture with Vietnamese culture, creating a refined and inviting atmosphere that instantly transports you to another era. From the moment I arrived, I was greeted with warm smiles and personalized attention, making me feel like a valued guest throughout my stay.

The check-in process was smooth and efficient, and I was immediately struck by the grandeur of the hotel’s interiors. Every corner of the property is beautifully maintained, with thoughtful details that reflect its rich history. My room was a perfect blend of classic design and modern luxury—spacious, impeccably clean, and equipped with every amenity I could ask for. The bed was incredibly comfortable, ensuring a restful sleep after long days of exploring Hanoi. I particularly appreciated the luxurious bathroom, complete with high-end toiletries and a deep soaking tub, which added to the overall sense of indulgence.

One of the standout aspects of my stay was the dining experience. The breakfast buffet was simply outstanding, offering an extensive selection of dishes to cater to all tastes. From freshly baked pastries and tropical fruits to traditional Vietnamese pho and Western classics, the variety was impressive, and everything was presented beautifully. Dining in the elegant surroundings of the hotel’s restaurant added an extra layer of enjoyment to the meal. I also had the chance to dine at Le Beaulieu, the hotel’s renowned French restaurant, which delivered a memorable culinary experience with exquisite dishes and impeccable service.

The hotel’s location is ideal for tourists, situated within walking distance of Hanoi’s Old Quarter, Hoan Kiem Lake, and several key cultural landmarks. It was incredibly convenient to explore the city’s vibrant streets, bustling markets, and historic sites without needing to travel far. After a day of sightseeing, returning to the calm and luxurious environment of the Sofitel Legend felt like a true escape from the hustle and bustle of the city.

I also took advantage of the hotel’s leisure facilities, including the beautiful outdoor pool and the tranquil spa. The pool area, surrounded by lush greenery, provided a serene oasis where I could relax and unwind. The spa treatment I received was world-class, with skilled therapists and a calming ambiance that made for a deeply relaxing experience. However, I would recommend booking spa appointments in advance, as slots can fill up quickly due to high demand.

While my overall experience was nothing short of wonderful, there were a couple of minor points worth mentioning. During peak hours, some of the common areas, particularly around the pool and breakfast buffet, could get a bit crowded. Additionally, while the level of service was generally excellent, there were a few instances where it felt a bit slow during busier periods. That said, these small inconveniences did little to detract from the overall enjoyment of my stay.

In conclusion, Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi is a hotel that lives up to its legendary reputation. Its perfect blend of luxury, history, and world-class service makes it a standout choice for travelers seeking an unforgettable experience in Hanoi. Whether you’re visiting for business or leisure, this hotel offers an unparalleled level of comfort and sophistication. I highly recommend it and will definitely choose to stay here again on my next...

Metropole was a great place for me before till from October 2023, from the day it's changed some rules and some staff become rude. That's i was very confusing about hiring process in this enviroment.

In Octorber 2023, i went to Le Club bar around 4-5 pm and it's become so dark cause this is winter and very blurry with the giant umbrella near the pool. I asked staff to turn it down cause it's too dark and hiding my views, and staff said " New GM have new rules for umbrella. Never turn it off even in night time ". Then i told them " Even the guest who using service asking for turn it off ? ". And staff say " Yes ". So ridiculous. Thats GM try to not allow turn the umbrella off while not focus on training some new staffs thats very slow and even dont understand what i order. The old one still very professional, i can tell.

1 Feb around 4PM, i go to LB with friends. I wait for appearing of staff quite long. And i back home without drink anything. Staffs appeared when i preparing to back home.

In 4 Feb, i went to Metropole. I was spent my time in restroom for some photos. Let's me clear this thing, before no staff tell me i cannot take photos in restroom and even in toilet have no signboard of no photos. I arrived hotel at 2h30 and my first photo is 2h33 ( i have info details in photos ). And a cleaner in that day, she noticed me cannot take outside of restroom, im ok. And i go into the restroom and she go around it for a while like camera man.

I dont like this feeling, then she said to me " You already here more than 1 hours" . I said " No i just around here almost 30mins cause i have details photo so i can check it ". She said " I will check camera and call the sercurity to let you out. New GM change the rule ". Please this is not crime, and this is very rude for the 5 stars hotel. And she go out and call a man sercurity go into women restroom at 3:03 PM to say very angressive that i have to get out of restroom cause new GM dont want anyone take photos even in any place of hotel. =))))))

Please lets make this clear, There is no signboard and restroom is private place that a sercurity man should not come in. Its very rude. Cleaner said to me i stand in restroom over 1 hours while im not and said she will check camera like im criminal.

SUPER RUDE , i start to asking who is NEW GM that staff mention alot. That's day i change place to drink. Who wanna stay ?

12 Feb, i go to Le Bieulieu with friends. This is Tet, and staff asked about if i want to sit on i have to order alcohol ( bottle or glasses ).. Cannot believe who do this promotion to up sale, who drink and drive in these very sensitive day ? I can understand Angelina cause AG is a bar. But LB is not. And this is Tet, we find hard to call taxi. And you lost guests while you can have some drinks and snack combo for 2 or 4 or group to set the amout of spending. I dont know what the meaning of this, but its seem also ridiculous and no understanding.

Finally, i feel angressive enviroment when i come there now. Dont allow people take photos in hotel even we use the service there, is ok. I dont mind although still ridiculous. Guests should not bothers space of others guests, we should , but can you guy focus on quality of food, pastry and service more than cannot turn off umbrella everytime ? Im not into Capella design but i always prefer service there. When you add on Service Charge, make sure its worth first.

This is a reviews from a local who come to use F&B in hotel and can compare with another hotel services in town even the world. Not a tourist who...