Things To Do In Hanoi

2 km
from city center 1 out of 83
Things To Do in Hanoi

Old Quarter in Hanoi, also known as the Hoan Kiem District or simply 36 Streets, is one of Hanoi's oldest neighborhoods and most popular attractions. It is home to Hanoi's most popular hotels, historical attractions, tourist street shops, and cafes. Among the most popular things to do are sampling the delectable street food, visiting the Hoan Kiem Lake, observing the olden architecture, and shopping at the Hanoi Weekend Night Market.

2 km
from city center 2 out of 83
Things To Do in Hanoi

Hoan Kiem Lake, or Turtle Lake, is a serene spot in Hanoi, ideal for unwinding after a long day. Surrounding the Ngoc Son Temple, with its iconic red bridge, it paints a pretty picture. On the northern shore is a small island where the Ngoc Son temple is located. The lake is also home to an iconic tortoise which is a sacred animal in Hanoi.

1 km
from city center 3 out of 83
Things To Do in Hanoi

Hoa Lo Museum is all that remains of the Hoa Lo Prison, which was used to capture Vietnamese and American political prisoners during the colonial period and the Vietnam war. Also known as Hanoi Hilton, it is located in the Hoan Kiem area. The interrogation room, guillotine, and John McCain's suit all are on display, a silent reminder of the gruesome past Vietnam has had to witness.

2 km
from city center 4 out of 83
Things To Do in Hanoi

The Hanoi Night Market, located in the Old Quarter of Hanoi, is held every weekend. It is a lively gathering of roadside shopping kiosks and food stalls. Here, you can shop for clothes, handicrafts, accessories, and souvenirs or indulge in delicious and inexpensive Vietnamese dishes, such as bloating fern-shaped cake, Hai Phong bread, grilled sausages, and bacon.

2 km
from city center 5 out of 83
Things To Do in Hanoi

Considered the best nightlife spot in Hanoi, the Bia Hoi Corner is a busy and bustling junction for beer lovers. Bia Hoi, also known as 'fresh beer' is a light draft beer with low alcohol quantity and affordable prices. The corner is famous for its many makeshift stalls and small pubs that serve chilled beers and some delicious Vietnamese food. It is located in the Old Quarter section of Hanoi.

0 km
from city center 6 out of 83
Things To Do in Hanoi

There are three major areas for enjoying Hanoi's vibrant nightlife: The Bia Hoi Junction in the Old Quarter, The West Lake Area, and the Historical Center. The Opera House, Hanoi Central Circus, or Water Puppet Theatre are great alternative experiences for those who wish to avoid crowds.

4 km
from city center 7 out of 83
Things To Do in Hanoi

The Vietnam Museum of Ethnology is a great place to explore the socio-cultural diversity of Vietnam. Built in 1995, it exhibits artifacts from the daily lives of the 54 officially recognized ethnic groups, including photographs, audiotapes, antiques, and everyday objects such as baskets and knives. A virtual tour is also available.

1 km
from city center 8 out of 83
Things To Do in Hanoi

The Imperial Citadel of Thang Long, also known as the Hanoi Citadel, is a UNESCO world heritage site home to many artifacts that signify the historical and cultural importance of Vietnam and its history. It was the center of Vietnam's political power for more than 1300 years. You can tour its prominent remaining buildings like Kinh Thien Palace, Princess Pagoda, and the North Gate.

2 km
from city center 9 out of 83
Things To Do in Hanoi

The water puppet show is an ancient art form in Hanoi dating back to the 11th century when the rice fields flooded, and the villagers entertained each other by standing in water with puppets. Thang Long Water Puppet Theater offers the most authentic experience: a Vietnamese orchestra playing traditional songs about agricultural harvests and mythical legends acted out by puppets in a pool of water.

10 out of 83
Things To Do in Hanoi

Hanoi is known for its distinct coffee varieties. Experiencing Vietnamese coffee in Hanoi is not just about the beverage itself, but also the unique atmosphere and cultural elements that surround it since Hanoi is dotted with countless charming and atmospheric cafes that provide the perfect setting for enjoying Vietnamese coffee. You'll also find variations like egg coffee (ca phe trung), coconut coffee, or yogurt coffee, each with its own special twist and flavor combination.

141 km
from city center 11 out of 83
Things To Do in Hanoi

Characterized by towering karst limestone pillars and small islets of various shapes and sizes amidst crystal blue waters, Halong Bay's ethereal beauty is a sight to behold. Located in northern Vietnam, about 3 hours from Hanoi, it is the most popular tourist spot on this side of the country. The most common way of exploring the region is via a cruise or day-trip boat, where tourists laze around in the boats while cruising among the limestone pillars and several islets. Many cruises and day trips also include an island drop-off and cave explorations.

0 km
from city center 12 out of 83
Things To Do in Hanoi

The Temple of Literature, also known as Van Mieu, is an 11th-century Vietnamese temple dedicated to Confucius. Built in 1070 by Emperor Ly Thanh Tong, it was one of Vitenam's first universities, teaching principles of Confucianism. Today, the temple honors Vietnam's greatest scholars. It features picturesque pavilions, halls, and statues surrounded by scenic ponds and gardens.

0 km
from city center 13 out of 83
Things To Do in Hanoi

The best way to sample famous Vietnamese food is to take a food tour in Hanoi. The street food culture comes alive at night when the chaotic streets spill out with street-side meat, bicycles laden with fruit and vegetables, simmering stock pots on doorsteps, boiling kettles, tipping teapots, and sacks overflowing with rice.

3 km
from city center 14 out of 83
Things To Do in Hanoi

The Perfume Pagoda or Chua Trong is among Hanoi's two most important and revered temples. It is located at the centre of the Huong Pagoda complex - a huge array of Buddhist temples and shrines built into the Huong Tich mountains. The stalactite and stalagmite formations inside the cave are believed to bestow one with good luck! It takes 2 hours from Hanoi to My Duc in a car. From there, you need to take a boat to the foot of the mountain and then a cable car to the temple complex.

2 km
from city center 15 out of 83
Things To Do in Hanoi

The Lotte Observation Deck is one of the best viewing points in Hanoi, located on the 65th floor of the Lotte Centre. Panoramic views of Hanoi and its nooks, thrilling photoshoots at the Skyline, hot coffee from cafes atop the deck, and a walk through the mystical Bamboo path are the highlight experiences here. Other attractions include the Sunset Lounge, View Terrace (with fantastic night sky scenes), binoculars, and interactive maps of the city.

2 km
from city center 16 out of 83
Things To Do in Hanoi

Dong Xuan Market is Hanoi's oldest market located in the old quarter and stands tall over three storeys. A typical South-east Asian market, the ground floor is reserved for selling fresh seafood, vegetables and flowers. The upper floors contain all the other items like clothes, handicrafts, handbags, souvenirs, accessories and electronics - all sold at wholesale prices.

0 km
from city center 17 out of 83
Things To Do in Hanoi

While the city of Hanoi has a lot of experiences to offer, there are short one-day trips to explore the wonderful countryside and some other hidden gems. A trip to Halong Bay is the most popular. Perfume Pagoda is another tourist hotspot, rich in religious and cultural history. For those who wish to explore the untouched and bucolic greens of Vietnam, Ba Vi National Park and Tam Coc are the places to head over to.

2 km
from city center 18 out of 83
Things To Do in Hanoi

The most visited temple of Hanoi is Ngoc Son Temple. Located to the north of Hoan Kiem Lake, this temple was dedicated to General Tran Hung Dao who defeated the Mongols in the 13th century, La To who was a saint and Van Xuong, a scholar. The name 'Ngoc Son' translates to 'the Temple of Jade Mountain' and it is a beautiful sight to see. With its ancient architecture containing a lot of cultural symbols and an ancient red bridge, the temple will help you find your solace surrounded by the calmness of nature.

1 km
from city center 19 out of 83
Things To Do in Hanoi

Opened in 1990 on the anniversary of Ho Chi Minh's birth, this Soviet-style museum is a mind-blowing museum depicting Vietnamese and Ho Chi Minh's history in a rather bizzare way. You can find lack and white photos, copies of speeches, letters, a huge statue of Ho Chi Minh himself, 1970-style art installations among many other exhibits.

3 km
from city center 20 out of 83
Things To Do in Hanoi

Located in the Hoan Kiem district of Hanoi, the National Museum of Vietnamese History exhibits artifacts ranging from prehistoric times- about 400,000 years ago-up to the founding of the Democratic Republic of Vietnam. Built in French colonial architecture with beautiful balconies, the museum has a collection of about 200,00 objects ranging from Axe heads to bright lacquerware.

0 km
from city center 21 out of 83
Things To Do in Hanoi

The Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, located in Ba Dinh Square, is the final resting place of the most popular leader of Vietnam, Ho Chi Minh, known to his people as Uncle Ho. It is also where Uncle Ho read the Declaration of Independence on September 2nd, 1945. It was opened to the public in 1975. Visitors are allowed a short time to look at the casket.

2 km
from city center 22 out of 83
Things To Do in Hanoi

Popularly known as the 'International Intersection', Ta Hien Street in Hanoi is where the western culture meets the eastern. A beer and food heaven, this crowded street is full of small alleyways with luxury restaurants, sidewalk shops, and local vendors selling affordable beer and delicious Vietnamese dishes. It is called the Beer Street of Hanoi for its super famous beer.

23 out of 83
Things To Do in Hanoi

One of the remarkable things about Vietnam is its people. Chatting with the locals is a good way to know Vietnam from their perspective and know the country and city. In the parks, near the lakes and temples, a group of old men and motorbike drivers gather to play the famous Chinese chess. It is quite intense to watch them play and how fast they play it but it is fun to witness it. Truc Bach Lake is one of the well-known destinations where Chinese chess is played. Tasting Vietnamese coffee is another must-have experience in Hanoi.

2 km
from city center 24 out of 83
Things To Do in Hanoi

Run by the Woman's Union Of Vietnam, the Vietnamese Women's Museum is well-curated with various exhibits tribute to women across Vietnam over the years. Located in the heart of Hanoi, with a display area of over 2000 square meters exhibiting over 28000 objects and documents, each floor depicts a dimension of a woman's life - from family and history to fashion.

0 km
from city center 25 out of 83
Things To Do in Hanoi

Hanoi's morning and night markets are a great place to experience a slice of Vietnamese life. The hustle-bustle begins at 6:00 AM, and the markets overflow with groceries, household items, counterfeit products, souvenirs, textiles, accessories, and some scrumptious street food. Most of these markets are in Tay Ho and Hoan Kiem districts, making them easily accessible by foot, cyclos, and taxis. Popular ones to check out are Hang Dau Market in Hoan Kiem, Cho Hom Market in Hai ba Trung, Dong Xuan Market, Hanoi Weekend Night Market, among others.

1 km
from city center 26 out of 83
Things To Do in Hanoi

The Vietnam Military History Museum, also known as the Army Museum, is one of the seven national museums in Vietnam. It contains an incredible collection of genuine war relics, photographs, and stories from its long-ranging wars with China, France, and the U.S. Some notable attractions are a MiG21 jet fighter, an M107 gun, a military tank, and many others.

0 km
from city center 27 out of 83
Things To Do in Hanoi

The Vietnam Fine Arts Museum, located just across the Temple of Literature, houses a small collection of indigenous artwork of 20th and 21st centuries. It houses the country's finest collections of paintings, sculptures, lacquer, prints, and ceramics.

3 km
from city center 28 out of 83
Things To Do in Hanoi

Built in 1898 by French Colonists, the Long Bien Bridge is an iconic landmark of Vietnam. The now-rusted wrought iron structure has lived through the American War and is (mostly) intact. It offers a spectacular view as you cross the river and get a bird's eye view of Hoan Kiem district. The incredible panorama makes this a great spot for photography and nature enthusiasts.

2 km
from city center 29 out of 83
Things To Do in Hanoi

St. Joseph's Cathedral is an architectural marvel with its elegant neo-gothic architecture built during French colonization. Resembling a lot with Notre Dame de Paris, the facade of this church consists of twin towers. The locals like to call this cathedral 'The Big Church' since it serves as the headquarters of the Roman Catholic Archdiocese in Vietnam.

0 km
from city center 30 out of 83
Things To Do in Hanoi

An essential experience of Hanoi is the vibrant casinos of the city. Indulge in a game of blackjack, Roulette, Poker or Baccarat in some of the best casinos. Some casinos also offer business spaces to work along with some play should patrons require such amenities. The casinos are primarily located at high-end hotels in Hanoi, and there are no individual casinos in Hanoi.

2 km
from city center 31 out of 83
Things To Do in Hanoi

A reminder of the French colonial times, Hanoi Opera House stands proudly as one of the important historical landmarks of Hanoi. Modeled after the Palais Garnier in France, the yellow facade of the building will give you massive French vibes. While this magnificent building largely hosts opera shows, you can visit the building for its aesthetics and get many beautiful pictures clicked. You will find some professional photo shoots taking place with the building's architecture as its backdrop.

0 km
from city center 32 out of 83
Things To Do in Hanoi

A local experience like no other, the cooking classes in Hanoi is perfect for learning and preparing Vietnamese dishes and learning about the local vegetables and ingredients. Hanoi Cooking Centre is one of the most popular local classes, with up to six classes offered, including a local market and street food tour. Some other renowned and popular classes are Hoa Sua School Cooking Class and Blue Butterfly Cooking Class.

2 km
from city center 33 out of 83
Things To Do in Hanoi

Located in the center of the Old Quarter, Bach Ma temple is a beautiful 11th-century Buddhist temple in Hanoi. It's dedicated to Bach Ma or 'White Horse', a legendary horse that is said to have led Emperor Ly Thai to the best area to construct a temple. It is a great place to see the local traditions, especially on the 1st and the 15th day of every lunar month for extended prayers, offerings, and ceremonies.

2 km
from city center 34 out of 83
Things To Do in Hanoi

The French Quarter in the old part of Hanoi is a relatively affluent neighborhood. Also called Little Paris, it houses many colonial buildings, quaint temples, luxury hotels, fine-dining restaurants, boutiques, cafes, bookstores, and more. Many buildings and streets showcase the architectural influence of the French, especially in the French-styled villas.

10 km
from city center 35 out of 83
Things To Do in Hanoi

Bat Trang Pottery Village, popularly known as the 'Ceramic Village' is home to many local artisan families who excel at traditional as well as modern designs. Located in the Gia Lam District left of the Red River, there are many stores and workshops where you can not only purchase alluring ceramic products like vases, plates and bowls, but also watch them being made and learn.

5 km
from city center 36 out of 83
Things To Do in Hanoi

Vinpearl Aquarium is the largest, most modern and the first underground aquarium in Vietnam situated in the Vincom Mega Mall Times City. With a capacity of 3 million litres of water, this aquarium is home to thousands of sea species. Some rare creatures here are penguins, otters and seacows. Families and those interested in learning about some gorgeous marine ecosystem should head here.

1 km
from city center 37 out of 83
Things To Do in Hanoi

One of the most iconic temples of Vietnam, the One Pillar Pagoda is one pillar built elegantly in the shape of a lotus blossom which is the Buddhist symbol of enlightenment. The shrine inside the Pagoda is dedicated to the Vietnamese Buddhist deity Quan Am. Built in the year 1050 during the reign of the Ly Dynasty, this temple is said to bring blessings of fertility and health. It has been recognized as the 'Most unique architectural temple in Asia' by the Asian Record Organization.

2 km
from city center 38 out of 83
Things To Do in Hanoi

Quan Thanh Temple is a Taoist temple built to honour the God of the North 'Tran Vo'. Located near the Truch Bach Lake, it is among the most significant temples in Vietnam.

In his honour, the temple also uses the tortoise and snake as symbols of protection and wealth respectively. It houses a 4-metre tall bronze statue of Tran Vo.

49 km
from city center 39 out of 83
Things To Do in Hanoi

Nestled at the centre of three mountains summits, the Ba Vi National Park lies about 63 km away from Hanoi and can be reached by public as well as private transport. So stunning is the beauty of this place that it was used as a hill station by the French. Some of those resort ruins can still be seen scattered across its landscape.

The park offers many hiking opportunities, especially one up the Tan Vien peak where tourists and pilgrims go to visit the Mountain God shrine. There is also a bird and an orchid garden for visitors to see.

3 km
from city center 40 out of 83
Things To Do in Hanoi

West Lake, in the Tay Ho district, is quite simply the prettiest and largest manmade lake in Hanoi. It stretches across 17km and provides a scenic getaway. One can have lunch on the floating restaurants or hire a boat simply for gliding through the calm waters. Tran Quoc Pagoda and Quan Thanh Temple are some of the cultural attractions located closeby.

5 km
from city center 41 out of 83
Things To Do in Hanoi

Located inside the amusement park of West Lake Park, the Ho Tay Water Park is one of the most amazing attractions in Hanoi. Visitors can seek an adrenaline rush from the various high-speed slides and diving pool or just laze around in the pool and lazy river. It's the perfect place for couples, friends and families with children for some amusement and grabbing a bite at the fast food joints.

1 km
from city center 42 out of 83
Things To Do in Hanoi

Presidential Palace of Hanoi is located in the Ba Dinh District of Hanoi at Hung Vuong St. and Hoang Van Thu St. Constructed in 1900, the Presidential Palace of Hanoi was originally intended to be Ho Chi Minh's official residence. At present, tourists are not allowed to enter the interiors of the building.

The Presidential Place is a three-storey mustard yellow building with 30 rooms. It is mostly used for political gatherings. Built in French architectural style, the palace is surrounded by lush green botanical gardens.

2 km
from city center 43 out of 83
Things To Do in Hanoi

The Ancient House in Hanoi, also known as Heritage House is located in the Old Quarter of Hanoi and is a sneak peek into traditional living styles of the Vietnamese. The attraction is especially for the history and architecture lovers. The heritage house consists of a living room, bedroom, bathroom, kitchen, balcony and a courtyard. Today, it's become more of a souvenir shop than a museum where visitors can buy traditional Vietnamese decoration items.

2 km
from city center 44 out of 83
Things To Do in Hanoi

The Hanoi Ceramic Mosaic Mural is the world's largest mosaic mural wall, built from ceramic that extends for 6.5 km. Conceptualized by Vietnamese journalist and artist Nguyen Thu Thuy, the decorative patterns on the wall are a visual narration of the country's history from different periods, along with modern artwork and children's drawings.

2 km
from city center 45 out of 83
Things To Do in Hanoi

The oldest in Hanoi, the Tran Quoc Pagoda was built in the 6th century during the reign of Ly Nam De Dynasty. With a height of 15 meters, the main pagoda is surrounded by an incense burning house, a museum, carved statues built in 1639 and lush greenery. Devotees pack the place during Tet festival and Buddha's birthday.

1 km
from city center 46 out of 83
Things To Do in Hanoi

The humble abode of one of the most important political figures in Vietnamese history, President Ho Chi Minh's Stilt house is a must-visit while visiting Hanoi. The two-bedroom house is surrounded by a carp pond, and still contains his personal typewriter and armchair. Its sparse furnishings are an ode to the simplicity of the man who lived there.

47 out of 83
Things To Do in Hanoi

The Van Phuc Silk Village of Hanoi was introduced to the world at an international silk exhibition at Marseille in France in the 1930's. This traditional Vietnamese village became an instant hit in the international markets due to the quality of its silk and the smooth and lightweight nature of its textiles.

5 km
from city center 48 out of 83
Things To Do in Hanoi

The Quang Ba Flower Market is a picturesque wholesale flower market in Hanoi. Every night, trucks from Da Lat bring in masses of colorful flowers like sunflowers, roses, tulips, orchids, lilies among many others. The local vendors buy from the truck and sell it to individual buyers. This night market is perfect for a photographer wanting to capture a street illuminated with colorful flowers.

2 km
from city center 49 out of 83
Things To Do in Hanoi

Thap Rua Tower, also known as the Turtle Tower, one of Hanoi's most iconic attraction was built to commemorate Le Loi who gave Vietnam freedom from the Chinese in 1425.

Constructed on a small piece of land in the Hoan Kiem Lake, this tower is inaccesible to the public, however, you can admire its glory from the edge of the lake.

3 km
from city center 50 out of 83
Things To Do in Hanoi

Phu Tay Ho is a temple dedicated to Mother Goddesses and the Jade Emperor. The pagoda has some brilliant architecture and many worship objects like the altar, statues, bronze bells, canopies and royal seat, all very beautifully decorated. The temple turns into a celebration on the 15th day of each lunar month. Tourists often come here to pray and enjoy the serene landscape of West Lake.

0 km
from city center 51 out of 83
Things To Do in Hanoi

Built in 15th century during the reign of Le Dynasty, the Ambassador's Pagoda is popularly known as the Quan Su Temple. Built to recieve Buddhist ambassadors, the temple is lesser known to tourists yet. The pagoda serves as the headquaters for Vietnam Buddhist Association. The temple also houses wax figures of Buddhist monks of the past.

2 km
from city center 52 out of 83
Things To Do in Hanoi

The Truc Bach Lake is one of the many lakes in Hanoi. It is an ideal spot for those looking for a beautiful landscape with many historic relics and unique architecture. Around the lake you can visit the ancient pagoda and statue of Amida, the Quan Thanh temple to worship Saint Tran Vu or the Chau Long pagoda. There are many shops selling coffee, beer and a delicious lunch for you to grab.