If you are looking for a memorable travel experience, Hanoi is the perfect destination for you. Hanoi, a city where history whispers through ancient streets, and culture dances in the vibrant markets. In this guide, we unveil the top tourist attractions that make Hanoi a gem nestled in the heart of Vietnam. Whether you're a history buff, a food enthusiast, or a curious traveler, Hanoi offers a tapestry of experiences waiting to be explored.
Hanoi is the capital and the second-largest city of Vietnam, with a history that dates back more than a thousand years. It is a city that has witnessed the rise and fall of dynasties, the struggle for independence, and the transformation of a nation. Hanoi is also a city that boasts a rich and diverse culture, influenced by various ethnic groups, religions, and foreign powers.
Exploring the top tourist attractions in Hanoi is a great way to experience the essence of this fascinating city. You can discover the ancient and modern landmarks, the spiritual and political symbols, the artistic and scientific achievements, and the culinary and entertainment delights of Hanoi. You can also learn about the history, culture, and traditions of the Vietnamese people and their ethnic minorities.
Hanoi is a city that offers a unique blend of traditional and modern attractions, where you can find both the old and the new, the serene and the vibrant, the sacred and the secular. Hanoi is a city that will surprise and charm you with its beauty and character.
Here we present a comprehensive list of the top best attractions to visit when traveling in Hanoi:
Hoan Kiem Lake and Ngoc Son Temple
One of the must-see attractions in Hanoi is Hoan Kiem Lake and Ngoc Son Temple, which are located in the heart of the city. Hoan Kiem Lake, also known as the Lake of the Returned Sword, is a scenic and peaceful lake that has a rich history and legend.
According to the legend, Emperor Le Loi received a magical sword from a golden turtle in the lake, which he used to drive away the Chinese invaders. After the victory, he returned the sword to the turtle, hence the name of the lake. On the lake, you can see the Turtle Tower, a symbol of Hanoi, as well as the "The Huc" Bridge, a red wooden bridge that leads to Ngoc Son Temple.
Ngoc Son Temple, also known as the Temple of the Jade Mountain, is a beautiful and sacred temple that sits on a small island in the lake. The temple was built in the 19th century to honor Tran Hung Dao, a national hero who defeated the Mongol invaders in the 13th century, as well as other deities and sages of Vietnamese culture. The temple features a stunning architecture and a collection of ancient relics and statues.
Visiting Hoan Kiem Lake and Ngoc Son Temple, you can enjoy the beauty and tranquility of the lake, learn about the history and culture of Vietnam, and experience the spiritual atmosphere of the temple.
Hanoi Old Quarter
If you want to experience the charm and vitality of Hanoi, you should visit the Hanoi Old Quarter and St. Joseph's Cathedral, which are located in the historic and cultural center of the city. The Hanoi Old Quarter, also known as the 36 Streets, is a maze of narrow streets and alleys that date back to the 13th century.
The Old Quarter is famous for its traditional crafts, street food, and nightlife. You can find everything from silk, silver, paper, to souvenirs, clothes, electronics, and more. You can also enjoy the delicious and diverse street food, such as pho, bun cha, banh mi, egg coffee, and more. The Old Quarter is also home to many ancient temples, pagodas, and houses that reflect the history and architecture of Hanoi. You can visit the Bach Ma Temple, the oldest temple in the city, the Dong Xuan Market, the largest market in the city, the Ancient House, a typical example of a traditional Hanoi house, and more.
St. Joseph's Cathedral
St. Joseph's Cathedral, also known as the Big Church, is a Roman Catholic cathedral that was built in the late 19th century by the French colonialists. The cathedral is modeled after the Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris, and features a Gothic style, a twin bell tower, and stained glass windows.
The cathedral is the oldest church in Hanoi, and the center of Catholicism in the city. The cathedral is open to the public, and hosts daily masses and ceremonies. The cathedral is also a popular spot for photography, especially at night when it is illuminated by colorful lights. Visiting the Hanoi Old Quarter and St. Joseph's Cathedral, you can explore the charm and vitality of Hanoi, and discover its rich history and culture.
Vietnam Museum of Ethnology
Vietnam Museum of Ethnology and Fine Arts Museum are two of the most interesting and informative attractions in Hanoi, located in the south and east of the city respectively.
Vietnam Museum of Ethnology is a museum that showcases the diversity and richness of the 54 ethnic groups of Vietnam, as well as other countries in Southeast Asia. The museum has two main areas: the indoor exhibition, which displays artifacts, costumes, tools, and multimedia materials of the different ethnic groups, and the outdoor exhibition, which features replicas of traditional houses, gardens, and monuments of the different ethnic groups. The museum also organizes cultural activities, such as folk music, dance, and games, to promote the understanding and appreciation of the ethnic cultures of Vietnam.
Fine Arts Museum
Fine Arts Museum is a museum that displays the artistic and creative achievements of the Vietnamese people, from ancient times to the present day. The museum is housed in a former French colonial building, and has three floors of exhibition space. The museum exhibits a variety of artworks, such as paintings, sculptures, ceramics, lacquerware, folk art, and contemporary art. The museum also has a collection of artworks by famous Vietnamese artists, such as Nguyen Gia Tri, To Ngoc Van, Bui Xuan Phai, and Nguyen Tu Nghiem.
Hanoi Opera House
The Hanoi Opera House, also known as the Grand Opera House, is a magnificent and majestic building that was built in the early 20th century by the French colonialists. The opera house is modeled after the Palais Garnier in Paris, and features a neo-classical style, a dome-shaped roof, and a marble staircase. The opera house is the venue for various performances, such as opera, ballet, musical, drama, and symphony. The opera house is also a historical and cultural landmark, as it witnessed many important events, such as the August Revolution in 1945, the first session of the National Assembly in 1946, and the performance of the Vietnam National Symphony Orchestra in 1997.
Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre
The Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre, also known as the Golden Dragon Water Puppet Theatre, is a unique and traditional theatre that showcases the art of water puppetry, which dates back to the 11th century. The theatre is located near the Hoan Kiem Lake, and has a stage that is a large pool of water, where the puppets are controlled by hidden puppeteers using bamboo rods and strings. The theatre performs various stories and legends of Vietnam, such as the creation of the world, the legend of the turtle and the sword, the harvest festival, and the dragon dance. The theatre also features live music and singing, using traditional instruments and vocals.
Visiting the Hanoi Opera House and the Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre, you can enjoy the elegance and entertainment of Hanoi, and appreciate its history and culture.
Thang Long Imperial Citadel
If you are interested in learning more about the history and achievements of the Vietnamese armed forces, you should visit the Thang Long Imperial Citadel and the Vietnam Military History Museum, which are two of the most impressive and important attractions in Hanoi.
The Thang Long Imperial Citadel, also known as the Hanoi Citadel, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that was the political and cultural center of Vietnam for 13 centuries. You can explore the various relics and structures of the citadel, such as the Flag Tower, the Doan Mon Gate, the Kinh Thien Palace, the Hau Lau Pavilion, the D67 House, and the underground bunker, which reflect the history and architecture of the different dynasties that ruled Vietnam.
Vietnam Military History Museum
The Vietnam Military History Museum, also known as the Army Museum, is a museum that displays the history and achievements of the Vietnamese armed forces, from the ancient times to the modern era. You can see the weapons, uniforms, medals, documents, and photos of the Vietnamese soldiers and their battles in the six exhibition halls, and the tanks, planes, helicopters, and artillery that were used in the wars against the French and the Americans in the outdoor display area.
You can also visit the flag tower, which is the symbol of Hanoi, and the monument, which is dedicated to the martyrs and heroes of the nation.
Tran Quoc Pagoda and West Lake
Tran Quoc Pagoda and West Lake are two of the most serene and scenic attractions in Hanoi, located in the north of the city.
Tran Quoc Pagoda, also known as the Pagoda of the Defence of the Nation, is the oldest and most sacred pagoda in Hanoi, dating back to the 6th century. The pagoda is located on a small island in the West Lake, and is connected to the mainland by a causeway. The pagoda has a distinctive architecture, with a multi-tiered tower, a lotus-shaped stupa, and a golden statue of Buddha. The pagoda also has a collection of ancient steles, carvings, and bonsai trees. The pagoda is a place of worship and meditation, as well as a symbol of Buddhism in Vietnam.
West Lake, also known as Ho Tay, is the largest and most beautiful lake in Hanoi, with a circumference of 17 km (10.6 miles). The lake is surrounded by gardens, villas, hotels, restaurants, and temples, and offers a variety of activities and attractions for visitors. You can enjoy the panoramic views of the lake, the city, and the mountains, or take a boat ride, a bike ride, or a walk around the lake. You can also visit the Quan Thanh Temple, the Tay Ho Temple, the Phu Tay Ho Temple, and the Nhat Tan Bridge, which are some of the landmarks around the lake. The lake is also a popular spot for fishing, swimming, and picnicking, especially during the summer and autumn seasons.
Dong Xuan Market
Dong Xuan Market, also known as the Big Market, is the largest and oldest market in Hanoi, dating back to the 19th century. The market is a four-story building that sells a variety of goods and services, such as clothes, accessories, electronics, souvenirs, food, and more. The market is a bustling and colorful place, where you can find bargains, haggle, and mingle with the locals. The market is also a cultural and historical site, as it witnessed many events, such as the Dong Xuan Incident in 1926, the Battle of Hanoi in 1954, and the renovation of the market in 1994.
Hanoi Nightlife
Hanoi Nightlife is one of the most diverse and lively aspects of the city, where you can find a range of entertainment and activities for all tastes and budgets. You can enjoy the traditional and cultural shows, such as the water puppetry, the opera, and the cheo, or the modern and trendy clubs, bars, and pubs, where you can dance, drink, and party. You can also enjoy the street food and beer, such as the pho, the bun cha, the banh mi, and the bia hoi, or the fine dining and wine, such as the French, Italian, and Japanese cuisine. You can also explore the night markets, such as the Hang Dao Night Market, the Quang Ba Flower Market, and the Long Bien Night Market, where you can shop, eat, and relax.
Hanoi Train Street
Hanoi Train Street, also known as the Railway Hanoi, is a narrow street that runs between two rows of houses, where a train passes through twice a day. The street is located in the Old Quarter, near the Long Bien Bridge, and is a popular attraction for tourists and locals alike. The street is a living example of the adaptability and resilience of the Hanoi people, who have learned to coexist with the train and its schedule. The street is also a place of creativity and community, where you can find cafes, shops, art, and activities that cater to the visitors and residents. The street is a thrilling and memorable experience, where you can witness the train passing by inches away from the houses and people.
Hanoi Ceramic Mosaic Mural
Hanoi Ceramic Mosaic Mural, also known as the Hanoi Ceramic Road, is a 4 km (2.5 miles) long mural that covers the walls along the Red River dyke. The mural was created by a group of local and international artists, as part of a project to celebrate the 1000th anniversary of Hanoi in 2010. The mural depicts the history, culture, and landscape of Vietnam, as well as the friendship and cooperation between Vietnam and other countries. The mural is made of ceramic tiles, which are painted, glazed, and fired in traditional kilns. The mural is recognized by the Guinness World Records as the largest ceramic mosaic in the world.
Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum
Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum is a large and imposing building that serves as the resting place of Ho Chi Minh, who died in 1969. The mausoleum was built in 1975, inspired by Lenin's Mausoleum in Moscow, but with Vietnamese architectural elements. The mausoleum is open to the public every morning except Monday, and visitors can see the embalmed body of Ho Chi Minh in a glass case, protected by a military honour guard. The mausoleum is also a historical and cultural landmark, as it is located in the Ba Dinh Square, where Ho Chi Minh read the Declaration of Independence on September 2, 1945, establishing the Democratic Republic of Vietnam
Summary
- The Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum is a grand building in Hanoi, Vietnam, where the body of the respected leader and president Ho Chi Minh is kept. It is a popular destination for visitors who want to honor the founder of the Democratic Republic of Vietnam and learn about his life and legacy. The entrance to the mausoleum is free for Vietnamese people, and only VND50,000 (about $2) for foreign tourists (New prices apply from January 1, 2024)
- The Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum is situated in the middle of Ba Dinh Square, the political core of Hanoi, Vietnam. It is easily reachable by public transport, such as bus, taxi, or motorbike, or by walking from the nearby attractions, such as the One Pillar Pagoda, the Presidential Palace, or the Ho Chi Minh Museum.
- The body of Ho Chi Minh, the respected leader and president of Vietnam, is stored in a glass case inside the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum in Hanoi. The body is regularly taken care of by a team of scientists who use a sophisticated embalming process to keep it in near-perfect condition.
- Visiting the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum in Hanoi, Vietnam, requires following a strict dress code that shows respect to the respected leader. You should wear modest and conservative clothing, covering your shoulders, chest, and knees, and avoid bright colors, shorts, skirts, hats, or sunglasses.
- The mausoleum is open to the public from 7:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays, and Sundays, with extended hours on weekends and holidays.
Presidential Palace
Presidential Palace is a magnificent and majestic building that was built in the early 20th century by the French colonialists, as the residence of the governor-general of Indochina. The palace is modeled after the Palais Garnier in Paris, and features a neo-classical style, a dome-shaped roof, and a marble staircase. The palace is not open to the public, but visitors can walk around the grounds for a fee. The palace is also a historical and cultural site, as it witnessed many important events, such as the August Revolution in 1945, the first session of the National Assembly in 1946, and the performance of the Vietnam National Symphony Orchestra in 1997.
Ho Chi Minh, however, refused to live in the grand palace for symbolic reasons, and instead built a traditional Vietnamese stilt house and a carp pond on the grounds. His house and the grounds were made into the Presidential Palace Historical Site in 1975, and visitors can see his simple and modest lifestyle, as well as his personal belongings and memorabilia. His house is also where he wrote his famous testament, which was published after his death.
Temple of Literature
Temple of Literature Hanoi, also known as Van Mieu, is the first university of Vietnam, founded in 1070 by Emperor Ly Thanh Tong. The temple is dedicated to Confucius, the founder of Confucianism, and his disciples, as well as the scholars and sages of Vietnam. The temple consists of five courtyards, which display various relics and structures, such as the Well of Heavenly Clarity, the Great House of Ceremonies, the Constellation of Literature Pavilion, the Gate of Great Success, and the Sage Courtyard.
The temple also has a collection of 82 stone steles, which record the names and achievements of the graduates of the royal examinations from 1442 to 1779. The temple is a place of learning and worship, as well as a symbol of Vietnamese culture and intellect.
One Pillar Pagoda
One Pillar Pagoda, also known as Chua Mot Cot, is the oldest and most unique pagoda in Hanoi, dating back to the 11th century. The pagoda is located on a small island in a lotus pond, and is connected to the mainland by a wooden bridge. The pagoda has a distinctive architecture, with a single wooden pillar supporting a square-shaped temple, which resembles a lotus flower rising from the water. The pagoda was built by Emperor Ly Thai Tong, who had a dream of receiving a son from the Bodhisattva Avalokiteshvara, who was sitting on a lotus flower.
The pagoda is dedicated to the Bodhisattva, and houses a statue of her holding a baby. The pagoda is a place of prayer and meditation, as well as a symbol of Buddhism in Vietnam.
As your journey through Hanoi comes to an end, reflect on the memories created amidst historical marvels, cultural delights, and natural wonders. The top tourist attractions in Hanoi have showcased the city's rich tapestry, leaving an indelible mark on your travel experience. Until next time, may the allure of Hanoi linger in your heart.
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Last updated on 2024-02-23 09:58:51.
