Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi, the 123-year-old luxury icon in the Vietnamese capital, was recognized by Condé Nast Traveler as one of the 72 best hotels and resorts in the world in the U.S. magazine’s prestigious Gold List 2025.
Metropole Hanoi, the only hotel in Vietnam to win placement on this year’s list, was hailed by the magazine’s editors as “a dazzling destination that flashes back beautifully to a bygone age.” Condé Nast Traveler’s annual Gold List has been compiled for 31 years and serves as a benchmark for excellence in global hospitality.
A total of 16 hotels and resorts in Asia were spotlighted in this year’s Gold List. The editors heaped high praise on Metropole Hanoi in their review of the hotel.
“Behind its classical white façade, two buildings – the original and recently renovated Heritage Wing and the neoclassical Opera Wing, named for its proximity to the Hanoi Opera House – envelop a serene courtyard garden and sparkling pool flanked by a bar,” the editors wrote.
“The historic suites, named after famous former guests, including Charlie Chaplin and novelist Graham Greene, exude a sense of old-world grandeur, while its peaceful French Quarter locale makes it a no-brainer when planning a trip to Hanoi,” they added.
Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi General Manager George Koumendakos said, “This is a tremendous honor from Condé Nast Traveler and a recognition of what makes the Grand Dame of Vietnam so special: our rich history, our elegant and sophisticated accommodations, and our uncompromising commitment to warm and personalized service.”
The Condé Nast Traveler award follows other major accolades for Metropole Hanoi this year. The hotel earned a Five-Star rating – the highest level of recognition – from Forbes Travel Guide in February (now held for five consecutive years). And in May, the hotel was named one of the “World’s 500 Best Hotels” by the influential U.S.-based travel magazine Travel + Leisure.
Metropole Hanoi’s historic Heritage Wing, with 103 guest rooms and suites, reopened to guests late last year after being meticulously restored and renovated under a 21-month construction project. The comprehensive reconstruction work was centered on the original wing of the hotel, which was established in 1901 and has played host over the decades to numerous heads of state and royalty, along with world-famous actors, writers, musicians and others.
