Hanoi, the capital city of Vietnam, is a place that will amaze and captivate you. Steeped in history and culture, this bustling city has grown from humble beginnings into the vibrant and charismatic capital it is today. From ancient architecture to the chaos of motorbikes, and from traditional street food to beautiful lakes, Hanoi has something for everyone. Here are 11 must-see attractions in Hanoi that will make your visit unforgettable.
Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum
A commanding construction built to house the embalmed body of Vietnam’s greatest political leader, Ho Chi Minh, the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum is a place of reverence. Visitors and locals alike queue for hours every morning to pay their respects to this iconic figure. Dressed in a khaki wardrobe and encased in a glass sarcophagus, Ho Chi Minh’s final resting place is a significant historical landmark in Hanoi.
Admission: 35,000 VND
Hours: 8am – 11am, Tue-Thu, Sat-Sun (December to September)
Address: So 1, Hung Vuong, Dien Bien, Ba Dinh
One Pillar Pagoda
Built in 1049 by Emperor Ly Thai To, the One Pillar Pagoda is a unique Buddhist wooden pagoda situated on a lotus pond. Legend has it that the emperor built it in honor of the Goddess of Mercy, who granted him a male heir in response to his prayers. The pagoda’s design, resembling a lotus flower emerging from muddy waters, symbolizes purity in Buddhist philosophy.
Admission: 25,000 VND
Hours: 8am – 11:30am, and 2pm – 4pm, Tue-Thu, Sat-Sun
Address: Chua Mot Cot, Doi Can, Ba Dinh
The Old Quarter
Hanoi’s historic Old Quarter is a vibrant and bustling area comprised of 36 streets. Each street has its own unique specialty, with artisans and craftsmen selling their wares. From silver street to bamboo street, silk street to decoration street, you’ll be amazed by the variety of goods available. Don’t miss the opportunity to sample sensational street food and bargain brews at the famous “bia hơi” corner.
Admission: Free
Hours: 7am to midnight
Address: North of Hoan Kiem Lake
Hanoi Opera House
The Hanoi Opera House is a stunning colonial building constructed at the turn of the 20th century. After careful restoration in 1997, it became the largest theater in Vietnam. Today, the Opera House hosts renowned performers, productions, and musicians. Don’t miss the chance to experience the mesmerizing acrobatics, traditional dance, and music of “My Village” performed here.
Admission: 300,000 VND
Hours: Check the website for performances
Address: So 01, Trang Tien, Hoan Kiem
Vietnamese Women’s Museum
The Vietnamese Women’s Museum is a modern museum showcasing the crucial role of Vietnamese women in the country’s history and society. Through excellent exhibitions filled with artifacts, costumes, crafts, and photographs, the museum offers a fascinating insight into the lives of Vietnamese women over the past century.
Admission: 30,000 VND
Hours: 8am – 5pm, Tue-Sun
Address: 36 Ly Thuong Kiet, Hang Bai Ward, Hoan Kiem
Click here to take a 360-degree tour of Hanoi
The Water Puppet Theatre
Dating back to the 11th century, water puppet performances offer a delightful glimpse into Vietnamese folklore and rural village life. Puppeteers stand waist-deep in water, maneuvering lacquered wooden puppets behind a screen. Accompanied by live music and traditional instruments, these captivating performances are a must-see in Hanoi.
Admission: 100,000 VND
Hours: 3:30pm, 5pm, 6:30pm, 8pm, 9:15pm (every day), additional performance on Sundays at 9:30pm
Address: 57b Dinh Tien Hoang, Hoan Kiem
Hoan Kiem Lake
Hoan Kiem Lake, also known as “the Lake of the Restored Sword,” is a beautiful lake in the heart of Hanoi. Legend has it that an emperor received a magical sword from a golden turtle in the lake, enabling him to defeat the Ming dynasty. Today, the lake offers a tranquil escape from the bustling city, where you can observe locals practicing Tai Chi and enjoy the picturesque scenery.
Admission: Free
Hours: Open all day
Ngoc Son Temple
The Ngoc Son Temple, located on a small island in Hoan Kiem Lake, is a striking Vietnamese structure connected by a stunning scarlet bridge. Built in honor of the scholar Saint Van Xuong and national hero General Tran Hung Dao, this temple is a testament to Vietnam’s rich intellectual history. Don’t miss the parallel sentences on the temple walls, which add an intriguing element to the site.
Admission: 20,000 VND
Hours: 7:30am – 5:30pm, every day
Address: Hoan Kiem Lake
Temple of Literature
Built in 1070, the Temple of Literature (Văn Miếu) is one of the oldest landmarks in Hanoi. Initially, it was erected to honor the philosopher Confucius and his disciples but later became Hanoi’s first university. The temple complex is now a symbol of Vietnamese education and architecture. Explore the five courtyards, admire the records of Vietnamese scholars, and seek blessings from the statues of turtles, known to bring good luck to students.
Admission: 30,000 VND
Hours: 8am – 5pm (November to March), 7:30am – 6pm (rest of the year), Tue-Sun
Address: 58 Quoc Tu Giam, Dong Da
Museum of Ethnology
The Museum of Ethnology offers a fascinating exploration of Vietnam’s 54 ethnic minorities. With exhibitions showcasing costumes, handicrafts, videos, and artifacts, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of the diverse cultures that make up Vietnam. Don’t miss the outdoor space featuring life-size replicas of ethnic architecture, providing a visual feast for visitors.
Admission: 40,000 VND
Hours: 8:30am – 5:30pm, Tue-Sun
Address: Nguyen Van Huyen, Nghia Do, Cau Giay
Saint Joseph’s Cathedral
Saint Joseph’s Cathedral, also known as Hanoi Cathedral, is a magnificent structure inspired by the Neo-Gothic style of the Notre Dame de Paris. Built on the site of the former Bao Thien Tower, the cathedral attracts a multicultural crowd of worshippers. It is also a popular spot for Vietnamese couples to have romantic photo shoots.
Admission: Free
Hours: 8am – noon, 2pm – 6pm, every day
Address: 40 Nha Chung, Hoan Kiem
These 11 must-see attractions in Hanoi offer a diverse range of experiences, from historical landmarks to cultural showcases. Immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of Hanoi’s history, art, and traditions. Make sure to sign up for our newsletter to receive more Vietnam travel ideas and inspiration for your next adventure.
