Login
Facebook
YouTube
WhatsApp
Twitter
Hanoi, the vibrant capital of Vietnam, offers a captivating blend of modern energy and ancient traditions. The city’s historical temples, dynamic street food scene, bustling markets, and French colonial architecture create a thrilling and picturesque atmosphere for visitors. Beyond its temples, things to do in Hanoi boast museums and memorials highlighting its rich heritage. It’s a destination where the past seamlessly merges with the promise of a spirited future. Hanoi is an enchanting destination that leaves a long-lasting impression on its visitors.
10 Things To Do In Hanoi
Are you wondering what to do in Hanoi? Here is a list of hand-picked things to do in Hanoi to make your experience amusing.
1. Visit The Temple Of Literature
Photo: Nathan Cima / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
The Temple of Literature is the first-ever University in Vietnam. The university, now a temple, showcases an interesting blend of history and architecture. It is a tribute to Vietnamese literature and culture. It contains a collection of classical Vietnamese poetry, historical documents and philosophical texts. It is a two-storey structure and was built in the 1860s. It served as the nation’s primary educational institution for decades. The serene beauty of the temple makes the atmosphere tranquil. Various events and ceremonies are hosted in the temple throughout the year.
Location: Temple of Literature, Hanoi
Entry Fee: 27,300 VND (₹92)
Timings: Summer timings (April to October), 7:30 AM – 5:30 PM (closed on Saturdays)
Winter Timings (October to March), 8 AM – 5 PM (closed on Saturdays)
Suggested Read: Experience The Thrill Of Skydiving Vietnam
2. Shop At Dong Xuan Market
Photo: Florian Bernhardt / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
Dong Xuan Market, also the largest market in Hanoi city, was built by the French. It is known as the heart of street shopping, as it offers a large variety of clothes, footwear, accessories, household items, food and all the daily needs items that one would require. It is located in the Old Quarters of Hanoi. It is home to numerous food stalls that offer a wide range of Vietnamese delicacies. Unique Vietnamese handicrafts are also found in the market.
Location: Dong Xuan Market, Hanoi
Timings: 6 AM – 6 PM
3. Relax Near The Hoan Kiem Lake
Photo: Trần Minh Khôi / Unsplash
This lake, also known as the “Lake of The Returned Sword”, was earlier known as “Luv Thuy Lake”. It is a beautiful and serene spot in Hanoi surrounded by Ngoc Son Temple and a Turtle Tower that glitters at night. The turtle tower provides a stunning view to all the visitors, making the lake a huge attraction for all the tourists. The tall, slender trees and mesmerising views add to the serene beauty. The lake is also home to the Huc Bridge, popularly known as the Red Bridge, which connects the lake’s shore to the Ngoc Son Temple.
Location: Hoan Kiem Lake, Hanoi
Entry Fee: 27,300 VND (₹92)
Timings: 8 AM – 5 PM
Suggested Read: Things To Do In Vietnam
4. Visit The Hoa Lo Prison Memorial
Photo: Helenakfronczak / Wikimedia Commons
Formerly known as Maison Central by the French, the Hoa Lo Prison Memorial is a historical museum that showcases its role during the French colonial period. It offers an insight into the sufferings of Vietnam soldiers during the Vietnam War. The visitors get to explore its epic history, as it provides a glimpse of the Guillotine and Death row cells. Visiting this place will give a deeper understanding of Vietnam’s past. Exploring this memorial is one of the best things to do in Hanoi.
Location: Hai Lo Prison, Hanoi
Entry Fee: 27,600 VND (₹93)
Timings: 8 AM – 5 PM
5. Explore The Old Quarters
Photo: Hieu Tran / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
Hanoi’s Old Quarter, one of the best things to see in Hanoi, is divided into the French Quarter, Ba Dinh, and the 40 streets of the Old Quarter, each with a unique charm. The famous Train Street, located to the west, is a popular spot surrounded by bustling cafés, restaurants, and street food vendors. Historically, each street in the Old Quarter was dedicated to specific trades, such as silversmiths and tailors, giving the area its unique character. The blend of French colonial architecture with traditional Vietnamese buildings, delicious food, lively night performances, and a bustling atmosphere makes for a captivating experience.
Location: Old Quarters, Hanoi
Timings: 24*7
Suggested Read: Things To Do In Phu Quoc
6. Enjoy The Puppet Show
Photo: Sagar Dani / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
Thang Long Water Puppet Theater in Hanoi is famous for its traditional live performances with puppets in a waist-deep pool. It has a long history dating back centuries and is a world-famous theatre with highly skilled conventional performers. The performances are based on traditional Vietnamese stories, myths, legends, and folklore farming or rural life themes. Along with the puppets, the talented musicians entertain the audience with folk songs to enhance the exciting atmosphere of the place.
Location: Puppet Theatre, Hanoi
Entry Fee: 193,000 VND (₹651)
Timings: 8 AM – 6 PM
7. Visiting The Imperial Citadel
The Imperial Citadel of Hanoi, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a remarkable historical landmark built in 1010 during the Lý dynasty. Located in the city’s heart, this expansive 45-acre site features ancient imperial structures, military bunkers, historic sculptures, and intricate stone dragons. As one of Hanoi’s top landmarks, the Imperial Citadel served as the residence of Vietnamese emperors for centuries. It is also home to the iconic Flag Tower, a symbol of Vietnamese independence.
Location: The Imperial Citadel, Hanoi
Entry Fee: 273,000 VND (₹92)
Timings: 8 AM – 5 PM (closed on Mondays)
Suggested Read: Things To Do In Nha Trang For A Scenic Getaway In Vietnam
8. Unwind At Ba Vi National Park
Photo: Jessica Weiller / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
The Ba Vi National Park spreads across 10,000 hectares near Hanoi. This place offers a relaxing spot filled with tranquillity, surrounded by mountains, forests and ancient temples. The highest peak near the park is Ba Vi Mountain, which rises to 1,541 metres above sea level. This area boasts a large lake and a picturesque waterfall, making it a haven for nature lovers. The park is home to diverse wildlife, including monkeys, deer, and numerous bird species. It also shelters endangered species like the Delacour’s Langur and the Saola.
Location: Ba Vi National Park, Hanoi
Entry Fee: 13,700 VND (₹46)
Timings: 6 AM – 7 PM
9. Marvel At The Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum
Photo: CEphoto, Uwe Aranas / Wikimedia Commons
The Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum was built in the 1970s and offers a place for visitors to pay respects to Ho Chi Minh, the great Vietnamese leader, making it a significant landmark in Hanoi. The mausoleum is his resting place, and visitors stand in queues for hours to pay their respects. Ho Chi Minh’s embalmed body lies in a glass case, preserved for visitors to pay their respects. When visiting, guests must follow a dress code, including modest attire with covered shoulders and knees.
Location: Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum
Entry Fee: 35,600 VND (₹120)
Timings: 8 AM – 11 AM
Suggested Read: Experience The Thrill Go Hiking In Vietnam
10. Sightseeing At Ha Long Bay
Ha Long Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is widely recognized for its opportunities for scuba diving, hiking, and sightseeing. Visitors are in awe of the breathtaking views and make everlasting memories here. Also known as King Kong Island, Ha Long Bay is surrounded by vast mountains and lush forests, making it a paradise for nature lovers. Tourists can explore the island through boats or cruises. This enchanting destination perfectly blends adventure and serenity, offering an escape into nature’s splendour.
Location: Ha Long Bay, Hanoi
Entry Fee: 276,500 VND (₹933)
Best Time To Visit: October – December
Hanoi, a city with a thousand-year history, is a popular destination for residents and tourists, offering many things to do in Hanoi. It has numerous temples and French colonial-era frescoes, making it an enchanting place to visit. With a rich cultural tapestry and lively street scenes, Hanoi promises a unique and immersive experience. Book your next trip with TripXL to create unforgettable memories in Hanoi.
Cover Photo: Lewis J Goetz / Unsplash
