27 Things To Do in Hanoi, Vietnam
Discover the captivating contrasts of Hanoi, Vietnam, from the bustling, ancient alleyways of the Old Quarter to the serene shores of West Lake. This collection invites you to explore rich history, vibrant culture, and unforgettable flavors in Vietnam's charming capital.
Old Quarter
The Old Quarter in Hanoi is a historic district with streets named after the products traditionally sold there, offering markets and traditional crafts.
Ta Hien Street
Ta Hien Street, also known as Beer Street, is a popular nightlife spot in Hanoi where visitors can enjoy fresh draft beer at affordable prices.
Hoan Kiem Lake
Hoan Kiem Lake is a central lake in Hanoi, known for its early morning activity and the Turtle Tower which commemorates the legend of Emperor Lawa.
Ngoc Son Temple
Ngoc Son Temple is located on a tiny island in Hoan Kiem Lake, offering a cultural break with tributes to historical figures and a bronze turtle statue.
Ly Thai To Monument
The Ly Thai To Monument honors the founder who established Hanoi as Vietnam's capital, with the plaza transforming into a walking street on weekends.
St. Joseph Cathedral
St. Joseph Cathedral is a neo-Gothic cathedral in Hanoi, reminiscent of European architecture, with nearby shops selling cốm (green rice).
Phung Hung Mural Street
Phung Hung Mural Street is an open-air art gallery featuring murals created by Vietnamese and Korean artists, showcasing Hanoi's history with augmented reality features.
Shark Jaw Building
The Shark Jaw Building is a commercial structure offering views of Hoan Kiem Lake and various Vietnamese experiences, but is slated for demolition.
Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum
The Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum Complex includes the mausoleum, presidential palace, and One-Pillar Pagoda, requiring specific timing and dress code for visits.
Imperial Citadel
The Imperial Citadel of Thang Long is a UNESCO site showcasing 1,300 years of Vietnamese civilization, including archaeological areas and the D67 tunnel.
Temple of Literature
The Temple of Literature is Vietnam's first university, featuring stone turtles with tablets recording the names of doctoral graduates.
Hoa Lo Prison
Hoa Lo Prison features French colonial sections and exhibits related to the American War, including John McCain's flight suit.
Tran Quoc Pagoda
Tran Quoc Pagoda is a 1,500-year-old Buddhist temple on West Lake, featuring an 11-story pagoda and a Bodhi tree.
National Fine Arts Museum
The Vietnam National Fine Arts Museum displays Vietnamese art across the centuries, including revolutionary propaganda art and lacquerware.
French Quarter
Hanoi's French Quarter features treelined boulevards and colonial architecture, offering a contrast to the Old Quarter.
Opera House
The Hanoi Opera House is a mini version of Paris's Palais Garnier, offering performances and guided tours to see its Italian marble floors and French murals.
Trang Tien Ice Cream
Trang Tien Ice Cream is a beloved ice cream institution in Hanoi, offering affordable and nostalgic flavors like green bean and coconut.
Hiatuk Square
Hiatuk Square is located at the begining of Old Quarter, and it is the best place to start your journey
Turtle Tower
The iconic Turtle Tower commemorating the legend of Emperor Lawa, who returned a magical sword to a golden turtle
West Lake
West Lake, is home to the the serene Tranqu Pagota