During our recent trip to Hanoi, we stayed at both InterContinental Hanoi Westlake and InterContinental Hanoi Landmark 72, redeeming points earned through the IHG One Rewards Premier Credit Card for both stays. As IHG One Rewards Platinum Elite members, we enjoyed a generous upgrade at Westlake but faced full capacity at Landmark 72, missing out on an upgrade there. Both hotels offered distinct vibes, with the standout being Landmark 72’s exceptional Club Lounge, the highest in IHG’s portfolio. Here’s our comparison of these two luxury Hanoi hotels, highlighting location, rooms, dining, amenities, and value.
Arrival and Check-In: Contrasting Welcomes
At InterContinental Hanoi Westlake, located on the serene West Lake, the check-in felt warm and personal. The open-air lobby, surrounded by lush greenery and lake views, set a tranquil tone. Staff recognized our Platinum status and upgraded us from a Deluxe Room to a Lotus Suite with lake views, a perk that made our stay special. The process was quick, with a welcome drink and attentive service.
In contrast, InterContinental Hanoi Landmark 72, perched on floors 62 to 71 of the Landmark 72 Tower in Hanoi’s Central Business District, offered a modern, high-rise experience. The check-in at the 62nd-floor lobby was efficient but less personal due to high occupancy. Despite our Platinum status, no upgrade was available as the hotel was at full capacity, so we stayed in our booked Deluxe King Room. The staff was courteous, but the busy atmosphere made it feel less tailored.
The Rooms: Serenity vs. Skyline
The Lotus Suite at Westlake, spanning 60 to 70 square meters, was a highlight. Located in the main building, it featured a spacious bedroom, a separate living area, and a private balcony with stunning views of West Lake and the Golden Lotus Pagoda. The modern Vietnamese design, with wooden accents and a soothing color palette, felt authentic yet luxurious. The bathroom included a soaking tub, a rain shower, and Byredo toiletries, adding a touch of indulgence.
At Landmark 72, our Deluxe King Room (46 square meters) was sleek and modern, with floor-to-ceiling windows offering panoramic views of Hanoi’s skyline. While comfortable, with a firm yet cozy bed and a well-appointed bathroom, it felt less special without the upgrade. The room’s high-tech amenities, like an Illy espresso machine and smart controls, were impressive, but the lack of space compared to Westlake’s suite was noticeable. Both rooms were clean and well-maintained, but Westlake’s upgrade gave it an edge.
Dining: Landmark 72’s Lounge Shines
Westlake’s Club InterContinental Lounge offered a solid experience with Platinum status, providing access to a breakfast buffet with Vietnamese pho, fresh pastries, and made-to-order eggs, plus evening canapés like spring rolls and cocktails. The lakeside setting was serene, but the food, while good, leaned standard for a luxury hotel.
The Club InterContinental Lounge at Landmark 72, on the 71st floor and the largest in Southeast Asia, was a game-changer. Accessible with our Platinum status, it offered an exceptional dining experience. The breakfast buffet featured a wide array of hot dishes, from dim sum to eggs Benedict, alongside à la carte options like Vietnamese coffee. Evening happy hour impressed with hot canapés, sushi, and premium drinks, all served with unparalleled city views. The lounge’s size and quality, noted in reviews as a standout, made it a highlight compared to Westlake’s more modest offerings.
Amenities and Service: Both Excel
Westlake’s amenities leaned into its lakeside charm. The outdoor pool, surrounded by tropical plants, was inviting, though we didn’t use it due to cool weather. The Saigon Restaurant served excellent Vietnamese cuisine, and the Sunset Bar, Hanoi’s only overwater bar, was a unique spot for drinks. The staff was superb, with personalized touches like escorting us to our suite and checking on our comfort.
Landmark 72’s amenities were more urban-focused. The shared outdoor pool on the 7th floor was large but less exclusive, as it’s part of the tower complex. The fitness center, with an indoor running track, was impressive, and the spa looked enticing, though we didn’t book a treatment. The staff was equally professional, with standout service in the lounge, where they remembered our drink preferences. Both hotels delivered top-tier hospitality, but Westlake felt slightly more intimate due to its smaller size.
Location: Tourist Hub vs. Business District
Westlake’s location in the trendy Tay Ho district, minutes from the Old Quarter (15-minute taxi ride, ~70,000 VND), was ideal for exploring Hanoi’s cultural sites like Hoan Kiem Lake and the Temple of Literature. The peaceful lakeside setting offered a relaxing contrast to the city’s bustle, perfect for tourists.
Landmark 72, in the Central Business District, is farther from tourist areas (25 to 35 minutes to the Old Quarter by Grab, ~100,000 VND). Its location suits business travelers or those seeking modern Hanoi, with nearby attractions like the Hanoi Museum. The elevated views were a draw, but the distance from historic sites made it less convenient for sightseeing.
Value and IHG One Rewards Premier Credit Card
We redeemed 15,000 points per night for both hotels, earned through the IHG One Rewards Premier Credit Card ($99 annual fee), a great value. The card’s automatic Platinum Elite status was great for quick check in and the room upgrade. We earned lounge access by staying 40 nights and redeeming the Lounge Access Milestone Reward. Westlake’s Lotus Suite upgrade, valued at $300+ per night, significantly boosted value, while Landmark 72’s standard room, with cash rates around $120 to $150, felt less impactful without an upgrade. Landmark 72’s lounge, however, offered better dining value, making it a highlight for Platinum members.
The Verdict
Both InterContinental hotels are stellar, but they cater to different travelers. Westlake shines for tourists, with its serene lakeside location, proximity to the Old Quarter, and our memorable suite upgrade. Landmark 72 is ideal for those prioritizing modern luxury and unparalleled views, with its massive Club Lounge stealing the show for dining. If you’re after cultural immersion, choose Westlake; for a high-rise, business-oriented experience, Landmark 72 is the pick. Our Platinum status and IHG One Rewards Premier Credit Card points made both stays affordable and luxurious, but Westlake’s upgrade tipped the scales in its favor.
Pro Tip: Book early to secure upgrades, especially at Landmark 72 during peak seasons. Check IHG’s website for rates and point redemption options.
Hi! Thank you for sharing! How do you get the redemption rate at 15K points/night? I’m a also Platinum Elite member. When I look at their calendar for the next 12 months, 23K is the lowest i can find. Has the rate increased? Or is there a code or group rate that can bring the redemption rate down? Thank you for sharing your hotel videos!