Things to Do in Hanoi

Visit Hanoi and witness the solemn grandeur of the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum. Built from materials across Vietnam, it houses Ho Chi Minh's embalmed body in a glass sarcophagus, defying his wish for a simple cremation. Closed annually from 4 September to 4 November, it's a tribute to Vietnam's revered leader, echoing the monumental legacies of Lenin, Stalin, and Mao.

Located in Hanoi’s historical center the Hồ Hoàn Kiếm Lake or the Lake of the Restored Sword is one of the scenic places to visit in Hanoi. This lake offers a tranquil escape from the city’s maddening crowds and hectic pace. Legend has it that when Lê Lợi won the battle against the Ming Chinese, he became the king. 

One of the most iconic places to visit in Hanoi is the Tháp RùaTower that built for commemorating Lê Lợi. Lê Lợi created an insurgent army and help Vietnam gain freedom from the Ming Chinese in 1400s. It was built in the 19th century on a tiny island in the lake of Hồ Hoàn Kiếm. People lovingly call this island the “Turtle Islet”. Public cannot access this attraction but view it from a distance while walking around the lake. 

One of the most interesting places to visit in Hanoi the Bat Trang Ceramic Village belongs to Hani’s Gia Lam district. A location of the banks of the rivers Pho Hien and Thang Long, the traditional pottery and porcelain village has a history of seven centuries. The 14th century village has an area that is rich in clay hence the village potters have an advantage of ingredients required to create fine ceramics. 

Visit the tranquil 11th-century Confucian temple of literature, Van Mieu, in Vietnam. It now serves as a memorial to outstanding professors from its days as a leading Vietnamese institution. Here, you can stroll around its picturesque halls, pavilions, and sculptures set among peaceful gardens and ponds, and absorb the wealth of knowledge it contains.

Chua Tran Quoc is located in North Vietnam on the island of West Lake in Hanoi. It is a historical and ancient Buddhist Temple known for its beautiful architecture and cultural significance. The temple was built in the 6th Century by the Emperor Ly Nam De. Originally built across the river, it moved to its current location in the 17th century due to river encroachment.

Regarded as the freshwater lake of Vietnam, West Lake is spread over 500 hectares of land. Known for its soothing atmosphere, scenic beauty, and historic pagodas, it is an iconic escape from urban hustle attracting travellers and locals from all around the globe.

Built in 1911, the Hanoi Opera House is one of the notable architectural landmarks and cultural places to visit in Hanoi. It lies very close to the Hoan Kiem Lake and bears resemblance to the Opera House of Paris in its interiors and structure. The sight of the balconies, pillars and beautiful domes of the 600-seat opera will mesmerize you to the core. You can enjoy Vietnamese musicals and Western classics here. 

Old Quarter in Vietnam is an iconic district known for its narrow lanes, bustling markets, and ancient temples situated in every nook and corner. When exploring its busy street, get ready to indulge in mouth-melting street food and immerse yourself in the rich history and culture that will leave all travelers awe-struck! 

One of the most outstanding places to visit in Hanoi is the Ba Vi National Park that is known for its splendid natural beauty. It lies in the center of a three-peaked mountain that juts steeply out of the landscape.

Hoan Kiem Lake, nestled in the heart of Hanoi, Vietnam, is a shimmering gem steeped in legend and history. Spanning approximately 12 hectares, it serves as a tranquil oasis amid the bustling cityscape, attracting locals and tourists alike seeking respite from urban chaos. The lake's name translates to "Lake of the Returned Sword," derived from an ancient tale of a mystical sword bestowed upon a Vietnamese emperor by a divine turtle, which he later returned to the lake.

The Vietnam Military History Museum is one of the notable Hanoi tourist places that features a massive weaponry collection right at the front. The Museum displays Chinese and Soviet Equipment alongside US and French-made weapons that were captured during several years of warfare. You will spot the Soviet-built triumphant MiG-21 jet fighter displayed as a centerpiece here.

You cannot come to Hanoi and not visit this outstanding UNESCO World Heritage Site of Imperial Citadel of Thang Long. This citadel is Vietnam’s history’s intriguing relic that signifies its cultural and historical importance. Many artifacts in this Citadel date back between the sixth and the twentieth century.  This ancient site remained the country’s political center for thirteen consecutive centuries. You have to pick a map from the ticket counter to visit the places inside the fortress.

Built in the year 1917, the two-story building of the Vietnam Museum of Revolution once served as Vietnam’s trade department. Later at the start of 2008 the museum was upgraded with thirty displays that contain 40000 chronicled exhibits. 

The Vietnam Museum of Ethnology features a fabulous collection of well-presented artifacts, tribal art and objects of use related to the ethnic minorities of Vietnam. If you dabble into anthropology then this museum is worth your time. To ease your experience the items collected from the traditional village houses are labeled in English, French and Vietnamese.

Located on the 65th floor of the Lotte Center the observation Deck of Lotte is one of the chief Hanoi attractions. This deck offers sweeping views of the city from the top and is divided into four major sections. The zones are namely: the Romantic Zone, Experience Zone, Welcome Zone and the Attraction Zone.  This undisturbed vantage point lets you compare the Old Quarter’s size relative to the voracious growth of Hanoi. You can walk out on the steep drop through the glass-floor skywalks and enjoy drinks at the rooftop bar on the same floor.