Vietnam’s capital, Hanoi City, is a vibrant and captivating destination that combines natural beauty, history, and culture to great effect. With its clamoring roads, old temples and pagoda, and different culinary scene, Hanoi City has turned into a must-visit for voyagers looking for a credible Vietnamese encounter.
Guide to Hanoi Attractions
Hanoi Travel Guide
Overview
In addition to providing valuable insights into Vietnam’s cultural heritage and people, visiting the city’s top attractions is a fascinating journey through the city’s past and present. Each attraction in Hanoi offers a unique perspective and contributes to the creation of lasting memories, from ancient landmarks steeped in history to bustling markets filled with vibrant sights and sounds.
Hanoi City – The Capital of Vietnam
Visitors to Hanoi City can immerse themselves in its vibrant atmosphere and acquire a deeper understanding of the city’s significance by exploring its top attractions. Whether you are a set of experiences fan, a food sweetheart, or an undertaking searcher, Hanoi City brings something to the table for everybody.
Come along with us as we discover the most popular attractions and hidden gems in the charming Hanoi City. Take a journey that will take you through centuries of history, show you how welcoming the Vietnamese people are, and let you see Vietnam as it really is. As we show you the best of Hanoi Attractions in City, prepare to be captivated by its charm and allure.
Top 10 Hanoi Attractions Must-Visit
Ho Guom and Ngoc Son
Hoan Kiem Lake, otherwise called the Pool of the Reestablished Sword, is a lovely and peaceful lake situated in the core of Hanoi City. The lake is the ideal getaway from the bustling city because it is surrounded by ancient banyan trees and lush greenery.
The Ngoc Son Temple, which is located on a small island in the lake and can be reached via a charming red-painted bridge, is one of the main attractions near the lake. General Tran Hung Dao, a hero who aided in the defeat of Chinese and Mongolian invasion armies in the 13th century, is honored in the temple’s dedication.
Visiting Ngoc Child Sanctuary gives a window into Vietnamese culture and history. The sanctuary is embellished with complex craftsmanship, fancy special stepped areas, and different verifiable relics, including a saved body of a monster softshell turtle, an image of Vietnamese folklore and legends.
Visitors can take a leisurely stroll or bike ride around the lake in addition to visiting the temple. The region is likewise a well known spot for local people rehearsing judo in the early morning and for couples partaking in a heartfelt outing at nightfall.
Additionally, The Huc Bridge, a stunning scarlet bridge leading to the temple that is a must-see for photographers, is one of the nearby attractions. and the Water Puppet Theater, which hosts traditional Vietnamese puppet shows for visitors.
By and large, Hoan Kiem Lake and Ngoc Son Temple are two of the top Hanoi attractions in City, giving a desert spring of quiet in the midst of the city’s clamoring energy and offering a brief look into Vietnam’s rich social legacy.
Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum
The Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum is a grand monument in Hanoi City that was built to honor the life and achievements of Ho Chi Minh, the revered leader of Vietnam’s communist revolution. The mausoleum, completed in 1975, houses a glass-encased embalmed body of Ho Chi Minh, who passed away in 1969.
Visiting Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum provides an opportunity to pay respects to the man who played a central role in Vietnam’s struggle for independence and unification. The solemn and reverential atmosphere within the mausoleum complex is a reflection of the deep respect and admiration Vietnamese people hold for Ho Chi Minh.
When visiting the mausoleum, it is important to note that there are strict guidelines and protocols that visitors must follow. These local insider include:
Dressing appropriately: Visitors should dress in a manner that shows respect for the solemnity of the site. This means avoiding shorts, tank tops, and revealing clothing. Hats and sunglasses should also be removed.
Remaining silent: Visitors are expected to maintain a quiet and respectful attitude while inside the mausoleum.
No photography: Photography and filming are strictly prohibited inside the mausoleum complex.
Queuing and procession: Visitors are expected to queue and follow the line in an orderly fashion to enter the mausoleum. Visitors should keep moving and avoid stopping or lingering along the way.
Security check: Visitors will have to pass through a security check before entering the mausoleum. No bags or cameras are allowed inside.
Finally, it is also important to note that the mausoleum is closed for two months in a year (usually from October to November) for the embalming process to take place. Visitors are advised to check the opening hours and guidelines before visiting.
Imperial Citadel of Thang Long
Vietnam was under Chinese invasion at the time, and a Chinese fortress was said to be built in the area. In 1010, King Ly Thai To moved the capital from Hoa Lu (Ninh Binh) to Dai La (former name of Hanoi) and renamed it Thang Long. The Citadel was built in the same place, over the top of the torn-down fortress. From then on, the Citadel had remained the center of regional political power for 13 consecutive centuries.
The Imperial Citadel was expanded under Tran, Le and Nguyen Dynasty, with several occasions of major destruction by war. It remained the seat of the Vietnamese Court until 1810, when Emperor Quang Trung moved the capital from Thang Long to Phu Xuan (now known as the Imperial City of Hue), and Thang Long was no longer the capital of the country.
During the French colonial era, the royal palaces and most of the structures were severely damaged. By the 20th century, a number of the remaining structures were torn down. The Citadel was used by the Imperial Japanese Army to imprison over 4000 French colonial soldiers captured in March 1945. During 1954, when the Vietnamese Army took over Hanoi, the Citadel became the headquarter of the Ministry of Defense.
In the 21st century, the ruin foundations of Thang Long Imperial Citadel were systematically excavated. In 2004, a number of artefacts and items between the 6th and 20th centuries were excavated, including foundations of old palaces, ancient roads, ponds and wells.
Temple of Literature
Another top Hanoi attractions which located to the south of the Imperial Citadel of Thang Long, Temple of Literature was founded in 1070, almost 1000 years ago, by Emperor Ly Thanh Tong as a temple to worship the Chinese philosopher Confucius.
In 1076, his son established the Imperial Academy as a royal school for only members of the elite such as princes, nobles, and bureaucrats.
The temple holds extraordinary social significance as Vietnam’s most memorable public college, where researchers were prepared in Confucian standards. For hundreds of years, the Confucian educational system was an essential part of Vietnamese society. In addition to serving as a place of worship, the temple was also a place of learning that encouraged the pursuit of knowledge and educated future leaders.
When you go to the Temple of Literature, you can take in the serene atmosphere that has been preserved over the centuries and see the stunning architecture. The temple complex’s elegant courtyards, tranquil gardens, and ornate temples and pavilions are examples of traditional Vietnamese architecture.
The Temple of Literature’s most important Hanoi include:
The Primary Yard: This is the entry to the sanctuary intricate, set apart by the Incomparable Patio and the Shinto Sanctum. Dai Bai, or the Great Portico, is an impressive structure with stone tablets bearing scholars’ names and majestic stone pillars.
The Second Garden: The House of Ceremonies is the main temple in this area, which is dedicated to Confucius. There is a statue of Confucius inside the temple, as well as altars and offerings.
The Third Garden: This segment exhibits the stelae structures, where stone tablets conveyed engravings of the names and accomplishments of the researchers who breezed through the illustrious tests. These stelae are mounted on stone turtles, representing intelligence and life span.
Beside its building excellence, the Temple of Literature offers bits of knowledge into the Confucian schooling system. Guests can investigate the format of the college, with its five yards addressing the five components of Confucian way of thinking. In addition, there is a small museum in the temple where you can learn about the history of education in Vietnam and the significance of academic achievement.
You can immerse yourself in Vietnamese history, culture, and the pursuit of knowledge by visiting the Temple of Literature. A tranquil and motivating spot addresses the country’s scholarly legacy and fills in as an image of instructive greatness.
Click here to view more about Day Trips from Hanoi!
Water Puppet Theater
Water Puppet Theater is a conventional work of art that holds huge social significance in Hanoi attractions. One remarkable scene to encounter this hypnotizing work of art is the Thang Long Water Puppet Theater, situated in the center of Hanoi.
Water puppetry traces all the way back to the eleventh century. It was first performed by rice farmers in the flooded rice paddies of the Red River Delta in northern Vietnam during the monsoon season to keep them occupied. After some time, it turned into a well known customary type of diversion and narrating, displaying Vietnam’s horticultural legacy and old stories.
Visitors can enjoy captivating water puppet shows at the Thang Long Water Puppet Theater. The theater’s skilled puppeteers, who operate the puppets from behind a screen and give the illusion that they are floating over the water, are well-known. The puppets themselves are designed with intricate details, are lacquered, and made of wood. Long poles and strings are used to move them, and some even have movable parts like arms and heads.
A look behind the scenes at how the puppets are made and how they work reveals the skill and creativity that went into making them. The puppets are carefully carved and shaped by skilled artisans who pay close attention to every minute detail. Wood and lacquer are two examples of traditional materials that are representative of Vietnam’s cultural heritage. During the exhibitions, puppeteers control the manikins submerged, covered in abdomen profound water. The puppets appear to be moving effortlessly on the water’s surface thanks to this unique method.
In Vietnam, water puppetry has a significant cultural significance. In order to preserve and promote Vietnamese heritage, the shows frequently feature local folklore, historical tales, and traditional legends. Traditional music and singing serve as accompaniments to the performances, which typically impart moral lessons. Water puppetry is also a common feature of national festivals and celebrations, adding a touch of magic and cultural diversity.
To encounter the charm of water puppet theater in Hanoi, you can visit the Thang Long Water Puppet Theater. The theater is situated on Dinh Tien Hoang Road, close to Hoan Kiem Lake, a famous traveler attraction. The shows are normally held on numerous occasions a day, and it is fitting to book tickets ahead of time to get your seat.
The Thang Long Water Puppet Theater’s water puppet shows are a one-of-a-kind and fully immersive cultural experience that allow visitors to delve into Vietnam’s extensive traditions and folklore. Try not to botch the chance to observe this deep rooted work of art during your visit to Hanoi.
Hanoi Opera House
A stunning piece of architecture, the Hanoi Opera House is in the center of Hanoi, Vietnam. Underlying the mid twentieth hundred years, it is an image of Hanoi’s rich social legacy.
The opera house features exquisite French architecture and resembles the Opéra Palais Garnier in France. It fills in as a significant social community, facilitating an assortment of workmanship exhibitions, shows, and dance shows. With its exquisite plan and verifiable importance, the Hanoi Drama House is a must-visit milestone for anyone with any interest at all in investigating the magnificence and specialties of Hanoi.
Hanoi Old Quarter
If you want to learn more about Vietnam’s rich cultural and historical heritage, you must visit Hanoi’s Old Quarter, which is in the center of the city. The Old Quarter comprises of 36 old roads rear entryways that actually hold the customary engineering and format of a past period. Unique boutiques, cafes, restaurants, and street vendors selling traditional Vietnamese foods can be found along the narrow streets, where visitors can take in the bustling atmosphere.
The Old Quarter is likewise home to numerous prominent milestones like Bach Ma Sanctuary, Dong Xuan Market, and Hoan Kiem Lake. The white horse that is believed to have led the king to the temple site where he constructed his citadel is honored in the ancient Bach Ma Temple, which was built in the 11th century.
The largest market in Hanoi, Dong Xuan Market, dates back to the French colonial era and gives visitors a glimpse into Old Quarter life. Hoan Kiem Lake is a popular destination for both locals and tourists alike. It is in the heart of the Old Quarter. Legends and folklore abound about the lake, which is said to be home to the Golden Turtle God.
Take your time at night with the Hanoi Nightlife – Unique things to do in hanoi is come to beer street. Here, you can taste and enjoy many kinds of Hanoi street food and Bia Hoi, named as fresh beer or draft beer. And many other event at Night Markets on the weekend.
The Old Quarter is place for shopping in Hanoi filled with vibrant shops that sell silk, traditional crafts, and street food, making it a sensory overload. While taking in the charming atmosphere of the neighborhood, visitors can sample a variety of Vietnamese dishes, such as noodle soups and spring rolls, and sip coffee, tea, or beer.
All in all, the Old Quarter is a captivating objective that offers a brief look into Hanoi’s rich social and verifiable legacy of Hanoi attractions. The Old Quarter of Hanoi is a must-see Hanoi acctractions for anyone visiting the city because of its bustling atmosphere, traditional architecture, and distinctive landmarks.
Vietnam Museum of Ethnology
The 54 officially recognized ethnic groups of Vietnam are represented at the fascinating Vietnam Museum of Ethnology, which can be found in Hanoi. Situated in the Cầu Giấy Locale, roughly 8 km from the downtown area, the gallery sits on an extensive 43,799-square-meter property.
Guests to the historical center can investigate its broad assortment, which incorporates north of 15,000 antiques, 2,190 slides, 42,000 photos, 237 audiotapes, 373 tapes, and 25 Cd ROMs. The museum’s mission is to collect, document, preserve, and exhibit Vietnam’s cultural and historical heritage while also carrying out scientific research.
The Vietnam Exhibition hall of Ethnology offers an exceptional instructive encounter for the two local people and travelers. The displays distinctively portray the traditions, customs, ceremonies, lodging styles, clothing, and day to day existence of various ethnic gatherings in Vietnam. In addition, the museum organizes educational events like workshops and seminars to help visitors gain a deeper appreciation for the variety and depth of Vietnamese culture.
The Vietnam Museum of Ethnology is regarded as one of the most significant cultural institutions in Hanoi attractions, Vietnam because of its extensive collection and dedication to research and preservation. By learning about the country’s ethnic heritage, visitors can cultivate cross-cultural appreciation and understanding.
Hoa Lo Prison – Maison Centrale
During the French colonial period in Indochina, Hoa Lo Prison, also known as the “Hanoi Hilton,” was a prison in Hanoi that was originally used as a detention facility for political prisoners. The Maison Centrale later acquired reputation as it was utilized by North Vietnam to hold U.S. detainees of battle during the Vietnam War.
Hoa Lo Prison was built by the French in the late 19th century and had a dark and oppressive history. It earned the reputation of a place of immense suffering and torture for its inhumane treatment of prisoners. Notwithstanding, it is significant that main a little piece of the first jail complex remaining parts today, as quite a bit of it was obliterated during the 1990s to clear a path for another improvement project.
The remaining section of the prison is now a museum, where visitors can learn about the prison’s history and how the prisoners lived their lives there. The historical center shows antiques, photos, and shows that offer bits of knowledge into the brutal circumstances and the strength of the prisoners.
Visiting Hoa Lo Maison Centrale can be a serious and intriguing experience, giving a chance to ponder the troublesome history of the jail and its importance during the Vietnam War. It serves as a reminder of the human cost of war and the significance of keeping history alive.
Dong Xuan Market
One of another Hanoi must-visit which is the oldest and largest markets in the Old Quarter of Hanoi, Vietnam’s capital, is Dong Xuan Market. It is viewed as an image of Hanoi and a must-visit objective for the individuals who need to investigate the social qualities and experience nearby everyday life.
Dong Xuan Market was initially constructed by the French administration in 1889 and is situated in the central district of Hoan Kim. It has undergone a number of renovations over the years, the most recent occurring in 1994 after a devastating fire that nearly destroyed the market.
Dong Xuan Market offers a great many items from textures and dress to neighborhood crafted works, keepsakes, and road food. It is a popular tourist destination in Hanoi due to its impressive architecture and lively atmosphere. Fresh produce, accessories, electronics, and other household appliances, as well as other items, can be found at both the wholesale and retail levels[4].
The market’s essential area in the core of the city adds to its allure, making it effectively available for the two local people and tourists. Even though the market is inside, certain areas may be affected by the weather, especially during the colder months.
Visiting Dong Xuan Market gives a chance to submerge oneself in the lively environment of Hanoi attractions and take part in a novel shopping experience. Dong Xuan Market has a wide range of options to suit a variety of interests and preferences, whether you’re looking for traditional Vietnamese goods or just want to learn more about the local culture.
Click here to view more about what is Hanoi famous for?
In conclusion
Top Hanoi attractions offers a diverse range of cultural and historical attractions that provide visitors with a deep insight into the city’s rich heritage. Whether you choose to explore the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology to learn about the country’s ethnic diversity, visit Hoa Lo Prison to reflect on the impact of war, or experience the vibrant atmosphere of Dong Xuan Market in the Old Quarter, Hanoi attractions has something to offer for everyone. Don’t miss the opportunity to immerse yourself in the unique traditions, history, and daily life of this captivating city.
Thank you and enjoy your trips in Hanoi City
Click here to view more places to visit near Hanoi!
