Vietnam’s energetic capital, Hanoi, is a city full of culture, history, and unforgettable experiences. Hanoi has something to offer every type of tourist with its blend of historic temples, colonial buildings, and vibrant street life. This comprehensive guide to the best activities in Hanoi distils the spirit of this intriguing city.
1. Take a Look Around the Old Quarter
The Old Quarter in Hanoi is a maze of tiny lanes and streets, each rich in local flavour and history. The “36 Streets,” as this neighbourhood is also called, are well-known for their vintage stores, busy marketplaces, and thriving street food scene. Shops specialising in everything from silk clothing to traditional medicines can be found as you stroll around. Enjoy the opportunity to try regional specialities such as egg coffee, a distinctive Hanoi speciality, and banh mi, a Vietnamese sandwich. Pho is a type of soup.
2. Go to Ngoc Son Temple and Hoan Kiem Lake
In the centre of Hanoi, Hoan Kiem Lake provides a calm haven from the bustle of the city. A popular spot for both locals and tourists, the lake is a great place for a leisurely walk or to simply relax by the water. At the northern end of the lake is Ngoc Son Temple, situated on a small island and connected by the iconic red Huc Bridge. The temple, dedicated to the goddess of literature and the hero of the Trung Sisters’ rebellion, provides a glimpse into Hanoi’s rich cultural and historical heritage.
3. Discover the Temple of Literature
The Temple of Literature (Van Mieu) is one of Hanoi’s most significant historical sites. Founded in 1070, it was Vietnam’s first university, dedicated to Confucius and scholars. The complex features beautiful traditional architecture, including five courtyards, pavilions, and ancient stone stelae honoring outstanding graduates. The tranquil gardens and historical significance make it a must-visit for anyone interested in Vietnamese history and education.
4. Experience the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum Complex
The Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum Complex is a central landmark in Hanoi and a tribute to Vietnam’s revered leader, Ho Chi Minh. The mausoleum itself is an imposing structure where visitors can pay their respects to the embalmed body of Ho Chi Minh. Nearby, you can explore the Presidential Palace, Ho Chi Minh’s stilt house, and the Ho Chi Minh Museum, which offers insights into his life and Vietnam’s revolutionary history.
5. Wander Through the Hanoi Opera House
Built during the French colonial period in 1901, the Hanoi Opera House is an architectural gem and a testament to the city’s colonial past. The building’s grand façade and opulent interior reflect European design influences. If you have the opportunity, attending a performance at the opera house is a memorable experience. It hosts a range of performances, including classical music, ballet, and traditional Vietnamese opera.
6. Visit the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology
The Vietnam Museum of Ethnology offers a comprehensive overview of the diverse ethnic groups of Vietnam. It features an extensive collection of artifacts, costumes, and exhibits related to the cultural practices, traditions, and lifestyles of Vietnam’s various ethnic communities. The museum’s outdoor area includes traditional houses and structures from different ethnic groups, providing a fascinating glimpse into Vietnam’s cultural diversity.
7. Explore the Hanoi Ceramic Mosaic Mural
One of the longest mosaics in the world, the Hanoi Ceramic Mosaic Mural stretches over 4 kilometers along the Red River dike. Created to celebrate Hanoi’s 1000th anniversary, the mural showcases vibrant designs that depict Vietnamese history, culture, and natural beauty. It’s a colorful and engaging way to experience Hanoi’s artistic spirit while taking a scenic walk along the river.
8. Take a Street Food Tour
Hanoi is renowned for its street food, and taking a street food tour is an excellent way to sample a variety of local dishes and experience the city’s culinary culture. Many tours are led by knowledgeable guides who can provide insights into the history and preparation of traditional dishes. Try local favorites like bun cha (grilled pork with noodles), cha ca (turmeric fish), and che (sweet dessert soups).
9. Visit the Hanoi Hilton (Hoa Lo Prison Museum)
The Hoa Lo Prison, commonly known as the Hanoi Hilton, is a historical site with a complex past. Originally built by the French during their colonial rule, it was later used to imprison Vietnamese political prisoners and, during the Vietnam War, American POWs. The museum now offers exhibits on both the colonial era and the Vietnam War, providing a sobering look at the country’s tumultuous history.
10. Discover the Vietnam Fine Arts Museum
The Vietnam Fine Arts Museum showcases a rich collection of Vietnamese art, including traditional and contemporary works. The museum’s collection spans several centuries and includes paintings, sculptures, and artifacts that highlight the evolution of Vietnamese artistic expression. It’s an excellent place to gain a deeper understanding of Vietnam’s cultural heritage through its art.
11. Enjoy a Traditional Water Puppet Show
Water puppetry is a traditional Vietnamese art form that dates back to the 11th century. Performances typically take place in a pool of water, with wooden puppets controlled by skilled puppeteers hidden behind a screen. The shows are accompanied by live music and depict folklore, legends, and daily life in rural Vietnam. The Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre in Hanoi is a popular venue to experience this unique and entertaining cultural tradition.
12. Shop at Dong Xuan Market
Dong Xuan Market is Hanoi’s largest and oldest market, offering a bustling shopping experience. Located in the Old Quarter, the market is a maze of stalls selling everything from fresh produce and seafood to clothing, accessories, and souvenirs. It’s a lively place to explore and immerse yourself in local commerce while sampling street food and observing daily life.
13. Take a Cyclo Ride
Cyclo rides offer a leisurely and charming way to explore Hanoi’s streets. These traditional three-wheeled bicycles with a passenger seat at the back provide a unique perspective on the city’s vibrant atmosphere. A cyclo ride through the Old Quarter or along the Hoan Kiem Lake area can be a relaxing and enjoyable experience, giving you a chance to see the city at a slower pace.
14. Relax at Lenin Park
For a peaceful retreat from the city’s hustle, Lenin Park (Công Viên Lê-nin) is a great spot. Located near the Hanoi Opera House, the park offers green spaces, walking paths, and serene surroundings. It’s an ideal place for a leisurely stroll, a picnic, or simply enjoying the tranquility of nature.
Hanoi is a city that beautifully blends tradition with modernity, offering visitors a wide range of experiences. From its historic landmarks and cultural sites to its vibrant street life and culinary delights, Hanoi invites exploration and promises an unforgettable adventure.