InterContinental Hanoi Westlake

The InterContinental Hanoi Westlake opens with a classic InterContinental impression — large, spacious lobby, a dedicated check-in desk for IHG status guests alongside ample staff for everyone else, an on-site coffee shop, and a private ATM area. A full floor of restaurants sits one level above the lobby, offering multiple cuisine options without ever having to leave the property.

The room is well appointed with an interesting layout that includes a small living space, two separate balconies with lake views, a stocked minibar, coffee and tea setup, and notably generous bottled water — roughly eight bottles were provided in the room alone. The hotel shows its age slightly in places, but the service more than makes up for it. The open closet design is a small but smart touch — nothing gets accidentally left behind in a drawer. A safe is provided, along with iron, ironing board, and laundry bags for guests who want to send things out.

The bathroom includes a soaking tub, a bidet (not the handheld sprayer style), a scale, and a walk-in rain shower with shampoo, conditioner, and body wash. The balcony views, both day and night, are a genuine highlight of staying in this room category.

The fitness center sits in a separate building just outside the main entrance — well equipped and never overcrowded during the visit. The pool area is spacious with plenty of seating and a notably well-staffed pool bar offering a full food and drink menu delivered poolside.

Breakfast is extensive, as expected from an InterContinental property — hot food stations, made-to-order eggs, waffles, pancakes with warm syrup, a salad bar, Indian food options, noodles, and a full spread of juices, yogurt, and fruit. It would be difficult to leave this breakfast hungry.

For IHG members with executive lounge access (a perk you can unlock at 40 nights), the lounge is a strong reason on its own to choose this property. Afternoon high tea includes crumpets, sandwiches, and a tempting selection of small desserts. Evening happy hour adds finger foods and a full drink selection, with plenty of non-alcoholic options for guests who don’t drink. The lounge seating includes views out to the fountain and a more relaxed lake-adjacent area for evening drinks.

Behind the hotel, a walking path circles the lake — a peaceful, well-manicured spot for an afternoon walk, with a restaurant and bar at one end that wasn’t tried during this stay. Just outside the hotel grounds, the experience changes quickly — heavier traffic and some ongoing construction, though a handful of convenience stores and a pharmacy are within walking distance for essentials.