Places to Visit in Hanoi

What is Vietnam without some culture and history? The Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum is one of the imposing places to go in Hanoi. This monumental marble edifice takes you through the life history of the founding father of Vietnam. Ho Chi Minh fondly nicknamed as Uncle Ho, desired a simple cremation but contrary to his wishes, the Vietnemese people constructed this mausoleum out of admiration for him.

They erected this architectural wonder after gathering materials from all across Vietnam. Set in the building’s deep bowels you will find the pale and frail body of Uncle Ho, laid to rest, inside a glass sarcophagus.

Location: 2 Hùng Vương, Điện Bàn, Ba Đình, Hà Nội 100000, Vietnam

Timings: Weekdays- 7:30 AM – 10: 30 AM, Weekends- 7:30 AM – 11: 00 AM

Highlights: Armed guards guard the entrance and during mid-morning guards changing ceremony is performed. Respectful attire and attitude is expected and checked upon by the guards of honor standing next to the sarcophagus within the inner sanctum. This mausoleum stays closed between October to November as Ho Chi Minh’s body is sent to Russia once a year for maintenance and preservation.

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.

While boating, he met a giant tortoise at the lake’s center that said that now that peace was restored in the nation the sword with which he won must be returned to the God of Waters. After surrender the sword was returned but the water surface remained radiant. Since then this lake was called the Restored Sword. You must circle the lake to have a look at the historical monuments and temples that surround the lake.

Location: Hanoi

Timings: 12 AM – 12 PM

Highlights: Hundreds of people visit this green water lake to enjoy the beautiful sight and to spot the soft shell turtles that swim here.

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.

Location: Hang Trong, Hoàn Kiếm, Hanoi, Vietnam

Timings: Sun-Sat 12:00 AM - 11:59 PM

Highlights: Post sunset the area of the Turtle Tower comes alive when lights are up with the open restaurants and the rooftop bars. It is a great place for photographers and tourists.

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.

Right from colorful bracelets, to teacups, kettles, bottles, bowls, plates, flowerpots, jar, vases, and wind chimes there are many exclusive items that are made here and exported. You can spend an entire day here indulging in the pottery-making experience or join a buffalo tour for shopping and sightseeing.

Location: Bát Tràng, Gia Lâm, Hanoi, Vietnam

Timings: 8 AM – 5: 30 PM

Highlights: The Bat Trang Ceramic Village has unparalleled scenic beauty and lovely ambiance that is extremely mesmerizing.

Explore the amazing architecture by visiting the Quan Su Temple. Nowadays this temple is Hanoi’s official Buddhism center. The stately pagoda served various ambassadors who called on the Le dynasty’s emperors. During the 15th century a hall was built to receive guests and then this pagoda was erected so that they could worship without any worries.

This magnificent temple today stands in customary hues of yellow and houses an orange tree in its premise. The Quan Su Pagoda is one of the popular places to visit in Hanoi that you cannot miss.

Location: 73 Quán Sứ, Trần Hưng Đạo, Hoàn Kiếm, Hà Nội, Vietnam

Timings: 6 AM – 7 PM

Highlights: This religious Buddhist Pagoda houses Vietnam’s Central Buddhism Association Command.

Founded in the year 1070 by Emperor Le Thanh Tong, Temple of Literature was built as a university devoted to Confucius- a chinese philosopher. Later in 1076, it transformed into a prestigious academic school. Being the first national University of Vietnam, today the Temple of Literature honors the finest scholars of Vietnam.

It is one of the classic Hanoi places to visit today as it has been recast as a place of study rather than a devout landmark. The gardens, ponds, halls and five courtyards serve as picturesque backdrops during student graduation. Originally, those born out of noble families were exclusively granted admission here but post 1442 the Temple of Literature became egalitarian.

Location: 58 Quốc Tử Giám, Văn Miếu, Đống Đa, Hà Nội 100000, Vietnam

Timings: 8:00 AM – 4: 30 PM

Highlights: On Vietnam’s official banknote you will find the Temple of Literature printed. This temple’s layout bears resemblance to Confucius’s birthplace.

If you are a history buff then one of the most stunning Hanoi places to visit is the Museum of Vietnamese History. This museum is the city’s focal point as it is set amidst the Botanical garden and houses some very fascinating exhibits.

The museum gives you a good understanding of how the Vietnamese society underwent evolution. There are artifacts from the Bronze Age as well as from the modern day. Some of the masterpieces that will boggle your mind are the ones from the Champa Kingdom and a phenomenal sculpture of Lord Shiva with a moustache.

Location: 2 Nguyễn Bỉnh Khiêm, Bến Nghé, Quận 1, Thành phố Hồ Chí Minh, Vietnam

Timings: 8: 00 AM- 11:30 AM, 1: 30 PM – 5 PM

Highlights: Built in the year 1929 this museum is a combination of French and Asiatic architecture. The encompassing green enclosures of the museum give you an alluring escape from the city’s clamor.

One of the largest manmade lakes has to be the West Lake. It spans 17 kilometers and presents an extremely scenic gateway. You can have lunch here on the floating restaurants or hire boats to glide through the lake’s calm waters.

This pristine lake is one of the great places to visit in Hanoi as the fine-dine restaurants, boutique cafes, and luxury hotels that line the lake make for a magnificent site. You can explore this lake on a bicycle as well.

Location: Tay Ho district, northwestern part of Hanoi

Timings: 8:00 AM- 6:00 PM

Highlights: The Thanh Nien Road has divided a massive part of the lake and has formed the Truc Bach Lake. This lake is excellent for leisurely stroll.

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.

Location: 01 Tràng Tiền, Phan Chu Trinh, Hoàn Kiếm, Hà Nội 100000, Vietnam

Timings: 8 AM – 11 PM

Highlights: People who have witnessed the Hanoi Opera house allude to the fact that this one is more beautiful than its Parisian counterpart. This monument was mainly designed for the European culture and served as a classical music and theater center for the officials of French colonials and their better-halves.

Hanoi’s civic urban core, the Old Quarter is one of the historical places to visit in Hanoi. The prominent district is quite pedestrian-friendly despite the relentless modernization that this area has seen. You will experience a rare kind of timelessness here as you still get to witness the glimpse of the bygone generations.

The old Quarter is very popular for its intriguing neighborhood, and is home to a good mix of ancient shops, green spaces, Vietnamese architecture, and fresh street food.

Location: Hàng Ngang, Hàng Đào, Hoàn Kiếm, Hà Nội 100000, Vietnam

Timings: 6:00 AM – 11:59 PM

Highlights: The hidden alleyways, cozy coffee shops and secluded pagodas of the Old Quarter will reward you with unforgettable moments.

Built on the Black river, Hoa Běnh Dam is one of the remarkable Hanoi places to visit. This dam is Vietnam’s largest hydroelectric dam that generates a lot of power by combining eight turbines of 240 MW capacity totaling to 1920 MW of installed capacity. When you visit the dam you will find a 400 ton giant statue of Ho Chi Minh on the neighboring hill of Tuong.

Legend has it that when the Vietnamese Leader was crossing the Red river in a boat during Vietnam’s independence struggle against America, he faced many challenges. Eventually Ho chi Minh got so frustrated with the challenges that he manifested a reunification of the South and North by building a dam to calm the ferocious river.

Location: Hòa Bình province, Vietnam

Timings: 07:30 AM to 11:00 AM and 14:00 PM to 17:00 PM

Highlights: The Hoa Běnh Dam produces 27 percent of Vietnam’s electricity.

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.

To experience the mystical atmosphere of tropical rainforests, jungles with clouds as the backdrop, escape to this place to breathe the cool fresh air. You enjoy superb views of the tropical forest from the peak of the Park, come across the numerous vistas and the fast-flowing river of DA on one side of this park.

Location: Ba Vì, Hanoi, Vietnam

Timings: 6 AM – 7 PM

Highlights: The Ba Vi National Park offers lodgings at the Resort of Tan Da Spa where you can indulge in herbal baths, wet steam baths, mud baths, and baths in the hot springs. The area of the National Park offers hiking and walking opportunities galore as you pass through forest trails covered with dense tropical foliage.

Smaller than the West Lake but right in the cultural and historic heart of Hanoi, lies the Hoan Kiem Lake. This lake is one of the relaxing Hanoi tourist places, and is popular for its glassy waters setting off the beautiful city lights.

It is not just the oldest place of Hanoi city but has a legendary historical context. This lake was also known as Luc Thuy which translates to Green water in English.

Location: Hanoi

Timings: Open 24 hours

Highlights: This lake looks stunning at night and during the dusk. You can spot soft shell turtles on the lake here and grab the opportunity to click stunning photographs of this major tourist spot.

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.

Location: 28A Điện Biên Phủ, Điện Bàn, Ba Đình, Hà Nội, Vietnam

Timings: 8 AM – 11: 30 AM, 1 PM – 4:30 PM

Highlights: You can access the terrace at this Military History Museum, overlooking the rusting collection of supplies and war materials used by soldiers.

One of the excellent places to visit in Hanoi is the Fine Arts Museum that dwells in two buildings. These buildings were used to serve as the French Ministry of Information. It houses the ancient stone carvings of Champa and Quan Am’s astonishing effigies.

Treasures abound, this museum lets you witness the lacquered statues of the Tay Son Dynasty’s Buddhist monks and an awe-inspiring collection of both folk-naive and contemporary paintings.

Location: 66 P Nguyen Thai Hoc St, Hanoi 10000

Timings: 9:15 AM 5:00 PM

Highlights: You can revel in the beauty of the artworks at this museum as tour crowds have not crowded it like the Temple of Literature. The ceramic statues and wood carvings are bound to enamor you.

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.

Location: 19C Hoàng Diệu, Điện Bàn, Ba Đình, Hà Nội 100000, Vietnam

Timings: 8 AM – 5 PM

Highlights: You can come here to the Flag Tower of the Citadel to enjoy the expansive views of the Hanoi City Center and the Ba Dinh Square.

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.

You will be amazed to see the glass showcase here that stores everything from banners to weapons used by the Vietnamese laborers.

Location: 216 Đường Trần Quang Khải, Tràng Tiền, Hoàn Kiếm, Hà Nội, Vietnam

Highlights: This museum is an exhibition hall for the antiques and comprises intriguing curios. Apart from several revolutionary documents you will spot Vietnam’s first sewing machine and a Buddhist drum of the Japanese.

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.

Location: Nguyễn Văn Huyên, Quan Hoa, Cầu Giấy, Hà Nội 100000, Vietnam

Timings: 8: 30 AM – 5:30 PM

Highlights: Besides displaying the miniaturized version of the Vietnamese community’s life, this museum has a stellar collection of 25 CD ROMS, 373 video tapes, 237 audiotapes, 42000 photographs, 2190 slides and 15000 artifacts.

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.

Location: LOTTE Center Hanoi, 54 Liễu Giai, Ngọc Khánh, Ba Đình, Hà Nội, Vietnam

Timings: 9:00 AM – 11 PM

Highlights: The four different zones of the observation deck feature the Sky Gallery, View Terrace, the Photo zone, Welcome Theater, the Skywalk, and the Bamboo Road.

Dedicated to the Thanh Mau Mother Goddess the Tay Ho Pagoda is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Hanoi. Located on the West Lake’s northern Peninsula this temple draws thousands of people on each lunar month’s 15tth and on Sundays. People come here to receive blessings and good fortune.

The intricately carved frescoes, panels, and altars of the temple will thoroughly impress you besides the stunning landscape full of lotuses.

Location: Đ. Thanh Niên, Yên Phụ, Tây Hồ, Hà Nội 100000, Vietnam

Timings: 8 AM – 4 PM

Highlights: King Ly Nam De built the Tay Ho Pagoda and this 6th century temple is Vietnamese Buddhism’s cultural symbol. The pagoda looks splendid at sunsets during early evenings.

One of the perfect places to visit in Hanoi especially to escape Vietnam’s torrid heat is the Hồ Tây Water Park. You can pump up your adrenaline from the diving pool and high-speed slides here. There are thrilling rides with seven sliding lanes of 12 meters in height that produce high waves similar to the mammoth waves of the sea.

There are swinging ropes and a Tibetan suspension bridge to give you all the daredevil feels. However, if the adventurous rides exhaust you then you can always laze around in the lazy river, or relax in the massage pool near the water park.

Location: 614 Đ. Lạc Long Quân, Nhật Tân, Tây Hồ, Hà Nội, Vietnam

Timings: Weekdays: 8:30 AM – 7 PM and Weekends- 8:00 AM – 7 PM

Highlights: There is a Moon Park adjacent to the Hồ Tây water park that is popular for its electronic games and 3D cinema. You can indulge in myriad sports at the sports complex here besides fishing in a tiny pond filled with colorful fishes.

The crowded and narrow 200-meter street of Ta Hien is one of the must-visit places to go in Hanoi. This special street in the city never sleeps and is Hanoi’s busiest nightlife area.

Majority of trippers and foreign tourists set foot here to take a break from their shopping expedition and try the best food stalls here. You can hang out on this food and beer haven and enjoy your beer in beer-mugs.

Location: Hoàn Kiếm, Hà Nội, Vietnam

Timings: Open 24 hours

Highlights: The Ta Hien Street is full of tiny alleyways with sidewalk shops, luxury restaurants, and local vendors selling fresh and flavorful Vietnamese dishes. If you are a foodie then do not miss the traditional Vietnamese snacks namely nem Phung, nem, boiled peanut, cheese sticks and polish it off with the cheap beer (bia hoi).

Dedicated to the Royal highness Prince Linh Lang the 953-year old Voi Voi Phuc Temple is popularly called as the Kneeling Elephants Temple. Ly Thai Tong constructed this temple believing that his son is a god. This ancient place of worship occupies the exact place where the mighty elephant knelt so as to allow Prince Linh to mount on top of it and ride to the battlefield.

When you go sightseeing in Hanoi city you cannot miss visiting this wood temple for the stunning architecture of the shrine. What’s remarkable is that configurations of several walls, statues and entrances of the temple have been built as per the feng shui practices.

Location: Thu Le Zoo Hanoi, 306B Kim Mã, Ngọc Khánh, Ba Đình, Hà Nội, Vietnam

Highlights: To this date from 1953, the temple has been renovated multiple times. Every year on the ninth and eleventh day of the 2nd lunar month, the Voi Phuc Temple Festival is conducted to commemorate Linh Lang God’s merits. This festival is marked by a grand procession of (bat am) musical bands,  drums, gongs, fans, flags, parasols, and the dancing senh tien group.

Located in the district of Hoai Duc district of Hanoi, the Bao Son Paradise Park is one of the biggest tourism complexes. This park is only 12 kilometers away from Hanoi’s core and offers diverse services of entertainment suitable to all age brackets. When you go sightseeing in Hanoi city you cannot miss this theme park that comprises four main areas.

There is a traditional craft village section that features replicas of Vietnam’s 15 craft villages that specialize in embroidery, rattan and bamboo-made handicrafts, and gemstone-inlaid pictures. The Ancient Quarter Section displays the Hanoians’ daily activities through its old-style, tiled-roof attached houses. These houses resemble shops that sell beverages, art works, watches and clothing.

The third main area comprises an Eco-tourism area that displays the oceanic world by housing over 2000 fish species from different continents. You will spot skates, sea-calves, sharks, and different kinds of euphorbia. The royal garden in this section has over 500 varieties of precious and rare orchids on display besides a splendid cross-section of butterflies from all over the globe.

The 4th major area is the culinary section that offers visitors myriad choices of dishes ranging from traditional Vietnamese to European and Asian dishes.

Location: Km5+200, Đ.Lê Trọng Tấn, An Khánh, Hoài Đức, Hà Nội, Vietnam

Timings: 7 AM – 7 PM

Highlights: The Bao Son Paradise Park provides you ample opportunities to know about the culture of Vietnam. This park has a 500-seat theater that hosts song and dance performances, cultural exchange programs and other shows.

A very quaint “do it yourself” workspace in Hanoi is the DIY Box that lets you spend time curating leather goods. It is one of the fun-filled places to go in Hanoi as you get to spend 2 -3 hours designing everything from bracelets to passport holders, bags and wallets in the workshop.

This cool place lets you ignite your creativity and take back DIY leather souvenirs made by you. Indulge in oodles of fun and relax through this delightful activity that lets you try something out of the box.

Location: 56 Hàng Đường, Hàng Đào, Ba Đình, Hà Nội 100000, Vietnam

Timings: 9 AM – 9 PM

Highlights: While sipping on coffee you can learn a lot about the leather crafting world by practicing the use of tools like needles and hammers.

Located in Hanoi’s Nguyen Thai Hoc Avenue, the Statue of Lenin is the communist leader’s legacy on how he influenced the Vietnamese politics and culture. Constructed in 1980, this stone sculpture is reminiscent of Bolshevik history.

This statue is one of the enchanting places to visit in Hanoi as there are not many Lenin statues left in the world to remind people of the impact USSR once had on world political movements. By visiting the statue you not only witness its grandeur but also get to spend quality time in the nearby verdant park.

Location: 28A Điện Biên Phủ, Điện Bàn, Ba Đình, Hà Nội, Vietnam

Timings: Open 24 hours

Highlights: The Lenin statue is worth your stop in the area as this one is one of the remarkable historical landmarks standing tall in a small park right opposite the History Military Museum of Vietnam.

If you are all set out for a fun Hanoi sightseeing, do not miss out on the first, most modern and the largest Aquariums of Hanoi. This aquarium contains 3 million liters of water and houses some of the most exotic sea species.

You can spot rare creatures like the sea cows, otters and penguins here. More than 300 colorful fishes live inside this 4000 meters aquarium and make for a sight to behold. You get to draw valuable information about the gorgeous marine ecosystem here.

Location: 458 Minh Khai, Vĩnh Phú, Hai Bà Trưng, Hà Nội 100000, Vietnam

Timings: 9:30 AM – 10 PM

Highlights: The four main sections of the Aquarium include the reptile area that nurtures reptiles like the Latrodectus, and red centipede; the freshwater fish area that nurtures fishes like Discus, Catlocarpio; the specimen gallery area that houses interesting specimens in beautiful lighting; and the saltwater fish area that houses mesmerizing fishes like the Giant stingrays.

Located in Hanoi’s northwest the Hanoi Botanical Garden is one of the greenest Hanoi tourist places that was established in 1890. It surrounds the French palace’s backyard and is home to many rare species of trees.

You will spot tons of diverse fauna here that include the long-tailed macaques and squirrels. In the midst of the noisy streets this garden is fresh space where people can unwind.

Location: 3 Hoàng Hoa Thám, Ngọc Hồ, Ba Đình, Hà Nội, Vietnam

Timings: 5:30 AM – 10 PM

Highlights: There is a hall in the Botanical garden that serves to be a lovely place for hosting seminars, conferences, and weddings.

The Duong Lam Ancient Village is not really a village but a collection of 9 hamlets. These hamlets scattered across the Commune of Duong Lam are purely agricultural villages of the Northern Delta of Red River.

This village is one of the brilliant Hanoi tourist places known for its mossy houses and lets you explore the quintessential past of Vietnam.

Location: Son Tay Commune, Hanoi 100000 Vietnam

Timings: 7 AM – 10 PM

Highlights: You can easily get lost in the Duong Lam’s magical aura as this ancient village is a treasure house of hidden alleyways, communal halls, rice fields, wooden gates, lotus ponds, pagodas and temples.

Dedicated to the Jade Emperor and Mother Goddesses the Phủ Tây Hồ is one of the most beautifully decorated Hanoi tourist places. The pagoda features brilliant architecture and many of the worship objects like the royal seat, canopies, bronze bells, statues and the altar are intricately adorned.

You can come here to enjoy the West Lake’s serene landscape and relish the lively atmosphere of the place.

Location: 52 Đặng Thai Mai, Quảng An, Tây Hồ, Hà Nội, Vietnam

Timings: 8 AM – 8 PM

Highlights: In the hope of receiving Mother Goddess’s blessings pilgrims throng to Phủ Tây Hồ during the first and 15th lunar month of the year.

One of the most highly informative Hanoi tourist places is the Vietnamese Women's Museum that showcases roles that women have in Vietnamese culture and society. The exhibits labeled in English and French cover everything from childbirth to marriage customs.

However, the most poignant is the contribution of heroic women during wartime.

Location: 36 Lý Thường Kiệt, Hàng Bài, Hoàn Kiếm, Hà Nội, Vietnam

Timings: 8 AM – 5 PM

Highlights: For visual stimulation you can check out the stunning collection of fabric motifs, tribal basketware, costumes and propaganda posters from the ethnic minority groups of Vietnam.

The Vietnam Fine Arts Museum is one of the most patriotic Hanoi tourist places, that gives you a visual representation of how the country was caught in the throes of war. You can spot a tiny collection of the indigenous artworks of the 21st and 20th centuries abound with the themes of martyrdom and patriotism.

However, there are some paintings, lacquers and effigies that provide you a glimpse of Vietnamese folktales and heritage.

Location: 66 Nguyễn Thái Học, Điện Bàn, Ba Đình, Hà Nội, Vietnam

Timings: 8: 30 AM – 5 PM

Highlights: The museum displays items in a chronological manner like you will spot the evolutionary transition of the painting styles from Dong Ho to the Hong Trog art and eventually to the embroidery art.

The Presidential Palace is a mustard colored three-storey building that has thirty rooms and is used for political gatherings. For the architecture enthusiasts the Palace is one of the remarkable Hanoi tourist places built in elaborate French architectural style.

The Palace was erected for Ho Chi Minh however he chose to stay in his traditional stilt house. You will spot Uncle Ho’s house right within the palace’s compound. You must definitely come here to appreciate the refreshing gardens surrounding the palace.

Location: Số 2 Hùng Vương, Ngọc Hồ, Ba Đình, Hà Nội 118708, Vietnam

Timings: 7 AM – 4 PM

Highlights: The Presidential Palace in Hanoi is deeply rooted in Vietnam’s history. This building has witnessed everything from the victorious triumph of Vietnamese heroes to the oppression by the French.

The NGOC Son Temple translates to the Temple of Jade Mountainand is one of the most prominent places to visit in Hanoi, that sits on the island on the Hoan Kiem Lake. An elegant scarlet-colored bridge connects the temple to the lakeshore.

Dedicated to the General Tran Hung Dao, this temple’s ornate Vietnamese-style architecture will stun you.

Location: Đinh Tiên Hoàng, Hàng Trống, Hoàn Kiếm, Hà Nội 100000, Vietnam

Timings: 8 AM – 6 PM

Highlights: Full of scenic beauty and history this 19th-century fascinating temple offers you a peaceful respite from Hanoi’s hustle bustle.

Situated at the Old Quarter’s chore, the little Temple of Bach Ma is the oldest in Hanoi city. This temple is one of the legendary places to visit in Hanoi. You spot a splendid-looking red-lacquered funeral palanquin and white horse statue here, as you pass through the wooden doors of the pagoda.

Location: 76 Hàng Buồm, Hoàn Kiếm, Hà Nội, Vietnam

Timings: 9 AM 5:30 PM

Highlights: Emperor Ly Thai built the Bach Ma Temple during the 11th century to honor the white horse that guided him to this particular site. Hence, he chose to construct the city walls on this site but the Confucius shrine was later added in 1839.

This night flower market of Quang Ba Flower is located on the West Lake’s edge. The market starts functioning at 2 AM and until the sun rises it stays open. The piles of the fragrant blossoms ranging from orchids to sunflowers, and roses to chrysanthemums transport you to a floral world.

Location: 236  u Cơ, Quảng An, Tây Hồ, Hà Nội 100000, Vietnam

Timings: Open 24 hours

Highlights: The Quang Ba Flower Market is one of Hanoi’s colorful destinations. People come here to buy flowers for celebrations, offerings and various other occasions

If you are extremely fond of goods made of silk then the Van Phuc Silk Village can be your ideal find. This village houses many specialty shops that sell the best quality silk clothes. The village is renowned for its traditional techniques of silk weaving.

Though it was established a century ago, the tranquil locale of the village will still mesmerize you with its communal houses, wells and massive banyan trees.

Location: On the Nhue River, 10 Km Southwest of Hanoi Old Quarter, Hanoi 100000 Vietnam

Highlights: Local artisans in the village produce a mind boggling range of apparel using traditional looms. You can carry these apparels as souvenirs for friends and family.

Located in the Old Quarter the Dong Xuan Market is a non-touristy market residing in a cavernous building, full of small aisles. You will spot hundreds of stalls here that sell loads of household items and goods.

The area around the market is also bustling with stalls and shops that mostly appear at night. You can come here to enjoy the flavor of a local Hanoian’s life.

Location: Đồng Xuân, Hoàn Kiếm, Hanoi, Vietnam

Timings: 6 AM - 6 PM

Highlights: The market was built by the French during the end of the 19th century. It is one of the biggest marketplaces you will ever come across that sells everything from clothes to food and jewelry.

One of the most historically significant places in Hanoi has to be the Water Puppet Theater that hosts universally entertaining water puppet shows. If you attend any of these shows you will be aghast at how the puppets jerk their across shallow water pools.

What’s remarkable is that the master puppeteers move the puppets flawlessly hidden behind the curtains.

Location: 57B Đinh Tiên Hoàng, Hàng Bạc, Hoàn Kiếm, Hà Nội, Vietnam

Timings: 8:30 AM – 8:30 PM

Highlights: The water puppet show depicts a wide array of traditional Vietnamese legends and folklore that include stories of fire-breathing dragons, boy playing the flute while riding a buffalo and the Legend of the King’s Restored Sword.

The very first thing that you notice in the Quan Thanh Temple is the way the large banyan trees have beautifully shaded the premise. This Taoist Temple is home to the shrine of Tran Vu and as you pass beneath the entrance, you will be transfixed by the towering statue of the deity of North, occupying center stage.

Location: Đ. Thanh Niên, Quán Thánh, Ba Đình, Hà Nội 118810, Vietnam

Timings: 8 AM - 5 PM

Highlights: It was formerly called the Truth Vu temple that was built to face towards the north. This temple is one of the four sacred temples that were built to protect Hanoi. While the factual proof about when this place of worship was built is missing, some documents give the credit to King Ly Thai.

Built into the Huong Tich Mountain’s karst cliffs, the Perfume Pagoda is a striking complex of Buddhist shrines and Pagodas. The faithful come here to offer prayers to the deities here, as they are known to purify souls, grant children to childless families and cure sufferings.

You must come here to explore one of Hanoi’s most venerated temples and who knows the deities may just grant your wish.

Location: Hương Sơn, Mỹ Đức, Hanoi 100000, Vietnam

Timings: Open 24 hours

Highlights: The Perfume Pagoda is the most unique religious site of Northern Vietnam that is visited by huge numbers of pilgrims in need of prosperity and happiness.

The Hoa Lo Prison’s “Hoa Lo'' means “furnace” or “stove”. Built in the year 1896 this vast prison complex was originally built to house 450 inmates but some records indicate that almost 2000 prisoners were imprisoned here during the 1930’s.

During the Vietnam War American Prisoner of Wars were housed here and they called it the Hanoi Hilton. The exhibits of the prison are thought provoking as you will find an ominous French guillotine as a horrifying testimony to how the Vietnamese revolutionaries were beheaded here.

Location: 1 Hoả Lò, Trần Hưng Đạo, Hoàn Kiếm, Hà Nội, Vietnam

Timings: 8 AM 5 PM

Highlights: Hoa Lo never turned out to be a successful prison as hundreds of inmates escaped its walls, and some managed to even squeeze through the sewer grates.

One of the most renowned landmarks of Hanoi’s colonial era has to be the St. Joseph's Cathedral right outside the French Quarter. This neo-Gothic church sits on the Hoan Kiem Lake’s west side and was shaped after the Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris.

This church dates back to the year 1886 and hence is the oldest church in Vietnam’s capital city. You can come here to take a pleasant break from the Old Quarter to view the religious mural and glass-stained windows inside the church.

Location: 40 Nhà Chung, Hàng Trống, Hoàn Kiếm, Hà Nội 100000, Vietnam

Timings: 8 AM – 11 AM, 2 PM- 5 PM

Highlights: The area around the cathedral is as popular as the cathedral because the surrounding streets are lined with boutique stores, hotels and trees.

Legend has it that the One Pillar Pagoda in Hanoi was built after a fatherless emperor dreamed of an enlightened Avalokiteshvara giving him a baby son, resting on a lotus. Thus, Emperor Ly Thai commissioned the One Pillar Pagoda to be created in resemblance of this lotus flower that also is considered as the enlightenment symbol in Buddhism.

You can come here to view this beautiful pagoda but you have to follow a dress code. Carry a scarf and wear clothes that cover your legs, shoulders and chest, whenever visiting the Pagoda.

Location: Chùa Một Cột Chùa Một Cột, Đội Cấn, Ba Đình, Hà Nội 100000, Vietnam

Timings: 7 AM – 6 PM

Highlights: The warm culture, heart-touching history and the unique structure of this pagoda make one of Hanoi’s significant symbols.

Hanoi’s very first steel bridge was constructed by the French in 1902. This Long Bien Bridge stands as a symbol of resilience and courage. Located strategically across the Red River, this bridge served as the only link between Hanoi and Haiphong.

The unique architectural wonder that this bridge is, lets people witness some of the glorious sunsets and reminisce about the war. You can come here to view the busy markets of the city from high above.

Location: Tran Nhat Duat Street, Hanoi Vietnam

Timings: 12:00 AM – 11:59 PM

Highlights: The Long Bien Bridge encapsulates hardship and bravery of the Hanoians besides exemplifying independence and freedom.

One of the most beguiling Hanoi tourist places is the Trúc Bạch Lake that is known for its beautiful landscape coupled with unique architecture and historic relics.

This attractive destination is a popular chill-out spot for many shoppers that yearn for comforting views of the sunset and unwinding strolls. This lake used to be the Red River’s branch whose west bank lies in the vicinity.

Location: Northwest of Hanoi's Old Quarter, Ba Dinh District

Highlights: During the 18th century a castle was fabricated by the Trinh masters on the lake. Later it was transformed into a reformatory for imperial mistresses who were sentenced to weave unadulterated white silk.

Your Hanoi sightseeing is incomplete without a visit to the Vincom Mega Mall. This mall is Hanoi’s most visited shopping destination. Here you can access multiple well-being and fashion stores. There are different sections dedicated to fun and ice skating activities all within the premises of the mall.

While you can shop for the leading international brands here, you can also watch a movie inside the cinema hall present here. Massive crowd of people throng to this place to get hold of the chicest luxury goods collection here.

Location: 72A Nguyen Trai | Thanh Xuan, Hanoi,Vietnam

Timings: 9AM – 10 PM

Highlights: Interiors of the Mall will relax you like no other and if you crave for more fun, do visit the water world at the Mall to stay entertained.

If you are waiting to be mesmerized to the core then a specialty store is one of the major Hanoi places to visit. This outlet has a plethora of interesting craft items. You can shop for all sorts of cotton items, dyed and hand crafted by the locals.

Everything from original gifts to accessories and clothes are made from pure organic cotton that grows on the mountain nearby. Shopping at the Indigo store is the best way to support the local artisan and craftsmen.

Location: 3A Văn Miếu, Đống Đa, Hà Nội, Vietnam

Timings: 8 AM- 5 PM

Highlights: The Indigo store is renowned for its attractive patterned clothing. Foreign tourists and local crowds love frequenting the store to purchase hi-quality t-shirts, scarves and various other stitched goods.

When you go Hanoi sightseeing, do not miss out on the fabulous Tan My Design that offers excellent merchandise available under numerous designs. You can get hold of the best accessories here besides embroidered goods that are available at affordable rates.

This multi-utility store presents you with a stunning range of styling goods and fine jewelry. The jewelry pieces for women at the store are unique in terms of crafting and appearance. You can easily pay a visit to this charming store as the outlet is accessible via public transport.

Location: 61 Hang Gai, Hanoi, Vietnam

Timings: 9 AM- 5 PM

Highlights: The bed linen and homewares at the store are worth your money. Also, there is a cool café for you when you feel the need to take a break from incessant shopping.