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The question 'What to do in Hanoi' will no longer puzzle #teamKlook. Below is a list of iconic Hanoi tourist attractions - places you must check-in when exploring the capital city. Let's explore right away!
What characteristic of Hanoi leaves the deepest impression on you? Is it the street vendors laden with night jasmine on Phan Dinh Phung street on an early winter afternoon, the intense scent of milk flowers making people 'half love half hate,' or the bustling scene along the banks of Hoan Kiem Lake?
Hanoi - possessing multifaceted beauty, blending modernity with tradition - has never failed to captivate visitors. After every journey in the capital, whether it's your first time exploring or you're already familiar with every nook and cranny, #teamKlook always collects a variety of fun, entertaining, nature-exploring, cultural, historical, culinary experiences...; each memory is distinctive and unforgettable. If you still don't know where to start your Hanoi exploration, let Klook Vietnam guide you to the 'ready-to-go' tourist attractions in Hanoi.
1. Cat Linh - Ha Dong Railway Station - Hanoi
A trendy destination that every Hanoian youth is familiar with, Cat Linh railway station has become an incredibly cool spot for young people in Hanoi to live virtually. Checking in at the Cat Linh - Ha Dong electric train station has become a super hot trend that virtual living enthusiasts cannot miss.
The electric train stations on the Cat Linh - Ha Dong route are designed according to the famous metro model in the world, so there is no doubt about the luxury and sophistication of this place, surely it will be an endless source of inspiration for those 'heart-wrenching' photos and videos.
Cat Linh - Ha Dong Railway Station - Hanoi
- Address: 192 P. Hao Nam, Cho Dua, Dong Da, Hanoi
2. Ta Hien Street Hanoi
Traveling to Hanoi without visiting the 'sleepless street' Ta Hien would indeed be a major omission. Ta Hien Street, where travelers can explore the vibrant and bustling life of Hanoi as night falls. It's not only a popular destination for young people but also a beloved meeting place for both foreign tourists and Vietnamese people.
Ta Hien is considered a unique 'hub,' where music, culinary flavors, and street life blend into a vivid artistic masterpiece. Here, you can indulge in typical dishes, immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere of bars and cafes, and enjoy the mix of diverse cultures and lifestyles.
Ta Hien Street
- Address: Hang Buom Ward, Hoan Kiem District, just a stone's throw from Hoan Kiem Lake
3. West Lake Water Park Hanoi
Have you known Hanoi through its ancient streets in the Old Quarter, the gentle and serene vibe of Hanoi autumn? Then you've missed out on a super hot spot, where you can have a blast with incredibly thrilling and enticing games. Nowhere else but the West Lake Water Park, a super cool chilling destination right in the heart of the city. This promises to be the hottest tourist spot in Hanoi this summer. Come on, let's dive into the cool water, scream out loud on the super exciting water slides with Klook!
West Lake Water Park Hanoi
- Address: 614 Lac Long Quan Street, Nhat Tan Ward, Tay Ho District, Hanoi
4. Hanoi Ceramic Road
This Hanoi tourist spot carries within it the sky of culture and national history. Visiting the ceramic road, you feel like you're lost in a vibrant painting embellishing the beauty of the thousand-year-old capital.
Talented craftsmen and artists have skillfully used their hands to create unique ceramic mural artworks, reflecting the culture and history of the nation through different periods. With 21 main sections, each with its own theme, travelers can explore special and unique highlights in their Hanoi adventure.
Hanoi Ceramic Road
- Address: 11 Hang Voi Ward, Ly Thai To, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi
5. Thang Long Imperial Citadel Hanoi
Alongside many famous attractions, Thang Long Imperial Citadel remains an unmissable name as it's not just a famous Hanoi tourist spot but also a place preserving the footprint of a golden historical period.
When you have the chance to visit Hanoi, make sure to allocate time to explore the Thang Long Imperial Citadel and learn more about the country's history, while enjoying wonderful moments in the characteristic palace space here!
Thang Long Imperial Citadel Hanoi
- Address: 19C Hoang Dieu, Dien Bien Ward, Ba Dinh District
6. Phan Dinh Phung Street
There's no debate when it comes to Phan Dinh Phung Street being one of the most romantic streets in Hanoi. The green trees along the street, especially the ancient dracontomelum trees that have been through centuries, create a dense green canopy, like embracing the entire street. In Hanoi's autumn, try walking in an ao dai, buy some flowers from the street vendors, and take some 'poetic' photos - an unforgettable experience awaits.
7. Van Phuc Silk Village Hanoi
One of Hanoi's cultural gems dating back thousands of years that you should visit is Van Phuc Silk Village. This is one of the leading silk weaving villages in Vietnam, not only a proud traditional village with renowned silk weaving craft, but also recognized as the record holder for the 'Longest-operating Traditional Silk Weaving Village' by the Vietnam Record Center. Besides taking check-in photos, immerse yourself in the incredibly ancient space of traditional silk weaving craft. The ancient houses and traditional weaving workshops line the narrow streets. Exploring the silk village, you also get to witness the traditional silk production process from silkworm farming, silk reeling to hand weaving!
Van Phuc Silk Village Hanoi
- Address: Van Phuc Ward, Ha Dong District, 10km from Hanoi city center
8. Lotte Observation Deck Hanoi Sky
From the very beginning, the Lotte Observation Deck Hanoi Sky has been a sensation with its incredibly charming appearance, fun interactive activities, and (of course) the panoramic city view (especially when lit up). The Sky Dating Garden and Love Photo zone have turned the Lotte Observation Deck Hanoi Sky into a bustling spot for couples visiting Hanoi. Not to mention, you'll have an adrenaline-pumping experience walking on the first transparent toughened glass floors in Southeast Asia. Don't forget to enjoy a romantic dinner here and spend time shopping, relaxing, and entertaining at the mall below!
9. Hanoi Old Quarter
Dating back to the Ly - Tran period, Hanoi's Old Quarter is a centuries-old urban area located east of the Thang Long Imperial Citadel. The most famous old quarter in the capital city, known as Hoan Kiem District's Old Quarter, boasts 76 streets spanning over 100 hectares. Exploring Hanoi's Old Quarter, you'll not only admire the unique ancient architectural style but also have the chance to buy unique handmade souvenirs and indulge in authentic Hanoi cuisine.
10. Watch Thang Long Water Puppet Show in Hanoi
Water puppetry is a famous intangible cultural heritage of Vietnam. You can witness this unique art form in Ho Chi Minh City; however, the water puppet show at the Thang Long Theater in Hanoi is an amazing experience that every #teamKlook member should have. After a day exploring Hanoi, there's nothing better than immersing yourself in traditional music and experiencing the teachings of ancestors passed down through folk tales. Don't miss out!
11. Perfume Pagoda Hanoi
The Perfume Pagoda in Hanoi has long been a literary and artistic landmark. It is a spiritual architectural complex and famous natural landscape in the North, where you'll find meaningful lessons about Buddhism and moments of tranquility amid the hustle and bustle. From Yen Stream, Huong Tich Cave to the Inner Pagoda, you're sure to have unforgettable moments exploring Hanoi. Located about 70km from Hanoi city center, the Perfume Pagoda is a popular destination, especially during festivals, Tet, full moon days, or Buddha's Birthday.
12. Bu Hill, Hanoi
If you think Hanoi tourism is 'boring,' you're quite mistaken! At Bu Hill, #teamKlook can experience the exhilarating feeling of flying in the sky and admire the magnificent cityscape - an urban area flourishing next to the peaceful countryside. This unique experience will be captured on camera and sent to you as a memorable gift.
13. Temple of Literature - Imperial Academy
- Address: 58, Quoc Tu Giam, Van Mieu, Dong Da, Hanoi
The Temple of Literature - Imperial Academy is a complex of relics dedicated to Vietnam's first university, including the Temple of Literature, Quoc Tu Giam, Van Lake, and the Garden of Recipients. Built during the reign of King Ly Thanh Tong (around 1070), the Temple of Literature is where Confucius, Confucian scholars, and talented scholars are worshipped. The Imperial Academy - the first university in Vietnam - was established by King Ly Nhan Tong in 1076. Located south of the Thang Long Imperial Citadel, the Temple of Literature - Imperial Academy is a frequent destination for students in Hanoi, praying for luck on their academic journey. If you want to learn about a thousand-year-old Dai Viet and admire the distinctive architecture of the early Nguyen Dynasty, you definitely shouldn't 'miss out' on this Hanoi tourist destination.
Learn more about the Temple of Literature - Imperial Academy in the article below!
14. Khuê Văn Các
Located within the Imperial Academy, Khuê Văn Các was constructed in 1805 by Governor Nguyen Van Thanh during the Nguyen Dynasty. It is a square one-story building with eight roofs, nearly nine meters high, consisting of four lower and four upper roofs. Khuê Văn Các, meaning 'the beauty of the Khuê star,' is built on a high square foundation of Bat Trang bricks, possessing a very harmonious and unique architecture. The lower floor has four square brick pillars, with intricately carved patterns. The upper floor is painted wood with gold-plated details. The roof (corners and ridge) is made of highly durable lime plaster or clay.
Long ago, Khuê Văn Các was the place where the best literary works of successful candidates in the imperial examinations were gathered. Despite its small size, the structure is harmonious, situated next to the clear Thiên Quang well and lush ancient trees.
15. St. Joseph's Cathedral Hanoi
It's hard to say when St. Joseph's Cathedral Hanoi became a familiar 'Instagrammable' spot for #teamKlook when visiting the capital. Situated at the intersection of Nha Tho Street, Nha Chung Street, and Ly Quoc Su Street, St. Joseph's Cathedral Hanoi stands out with its classic Gothic architecture blended with romantic Indochinese style. Few people know that this is the oldest Catholic church and the first Western architectural work in Hanoi. Thanks to its convenient location, near many dining and entertainment venues, St. Joseph's Cathedral Hanoi attracts a large number of tourists and locals every day. You can come here for a photo shoot and then enjoy some snacks and the famous 'church lemon tea.'
St. Joseph's Cathedral Hanoi
- Address: 40 Nha Chung, Hang Trong, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi
- Opening hours: 08:00–11:00, 14:00–17:00, from Monday to Saturday | 07:00–10:30, 15:00–21:00, Sunday.
16. Hanoi Opera House
Constructed by the French based on the original model of the Opéra Garnier in Paris but on a smaller scale, Hanoi Opera House has been standing for over 100 years (from 1911 to the present) and has become the 'representative face' of the city. Visitors can combine exploring the architectural beauty of Hanoi Opera House with watching outstanding artistic performances. Surrounding the Opera House square are numerous excellent dining, sightseeing, entertainment, and recreational venues. Definitely worth a visit for #teamKlook.
Hanoi Opera House
- Address: 01 Trang Tien, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi
- Ticket prices: from 120,000VND to 400,000VND
Check out more details about Hanoi Opera House in the article below!
17. Vietnam Museum of Ethnology
- Address: Nguyen Van Huyen Street, Quan Hoa, Cau Giay, Hanoi
- Opening hours: 08:30–17:30, Tuesday - Sunday | Closed on Monday
Vietnam Museum of Ethnology - established in 1981 in Hanoi - is described as a vivid portrait of the culture and history of the 54 brotherly ethnic groups in Vietnam. With a total area of 3.27 hectares, this architectural work is the 'spiritual child' of French interior designer Veronique Dollfus and architect Ha Duc Linh. There are three main areas at the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology: outdoor exhibition area, Dong Son building, and Southeast Asian exhibition area. Here, visitors can admire artifacts hundreds or thousands of years old such as weapons, costumes, musical instruments, clothing, etc., as well as learn more interesting information about the spiritual life of ancient Vietnamese people - thereby understanding the unique cultural colors of each ethnic group.
18. Hoan Kiem Lake Hanoi
You may not know: besides the name Ho Guom - associated with the legend of King Le Thai To returning the magic sword to the golden turtle - Hoan Kiem Lake was once called Luc Thuy Lake because the water surface is always clear throughout the year. This is an ideal starting point if you want to explore famous old quarters in Hanoi, such as Luong Van Can, Hang Ngang, Hang Dao, Trang Thi, Dinh Tien Hoang, Ba Trieu, Hang Bai... Some must-visit places when coming to Hoan Kiem Lake are Turtle Tower, Ngoc Son Temple, The Huc Bridge, Le Temple, Ba Kieu Temple...
Whether it's early morning or late at night, Hoan Kiem Lake has its own lively atmosphere. Locals and tourists come here to exercise, stroll, visit historical relics, eat, shop. On weekends, the area around Hoan Kiem Lake hosts many festive activities and outstanding artistic performances. If you want to feel the youthful energy of Hanoi, you must visit Hoan Kiem Lake.
19. West Lake Hanoi
Hồ Tây has been present since the time of the Hung Kings, located in Tay Ho district, it is the largest natural lake within Hanoi's inner city - with a perimeter of about 14.8 km and an area of over 500 hectares. This picturesque lake is also known by several other interesting names such as West Lake, Dam Dam, Lang Bac, Doai Lake, or Corpse Island. According to many geological experts, Hồ Tây used to be a section of the Red River, but it became a stagnant lake due to changes in the river's flow, creating a natural freshwater lake. A characteristic that defines the beauty of Hồ Tây is the changing color of the water according to the climate and time of day - ensuring an extremely captivating experience for you.
It may take more than a day for #teamKlook to experience all the prominent tourist activities around Hồ Tây. Just to name a few, there's SUP paddling, visiting the Water Park at West Lake, taking photos at the West Lake Flower Valley, or enjoying the music scene on Trinh Cong Son Pedestrian Street. Explore more about Hồ Tây, Hanoi in the article below!
20. Red River Rock Bank
Are you passionate about photography? Are you looking for a 'unique' photo spot in Hanoi? Then the Red River Rock Bank is the ideal next destination for your wanderlust journey. Located at Alley 264, Au Co, Nhat Tan, Tay Ho, Hanoi, the Red River Rock Bank boasts a large riverside flower garden arranged into many eye-catching landscapes. Here, #teamKlook can easily find tall grass over their heads or brightly colored tropical flowers such as purple verbena, morning glory, and daisy... Let your creativity flow and refresh your Instagram feed!
21. Ba Dinh Square - Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum
Ba Dinh Square - located on Hung Vuong Street, Ba Dinh district - is the largest and most historically significant square in Vietnam. This is where President Ho Chi Minh read the Declaration of Independence, giving birth to the Democratic Republic of Vietnam on September 2, 1945. At Ba Dinh Square, on major holidays, grand parades often take place. With a width of 100m and a length of 320m, this is also a familiar leisure and sightseeing spot for locals and tourists alike.
When visiting Ba Dinh Square, #teamKlook must definitely take the time to explore Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum. Not only does it possess sturdy and unique architecture, but this monument also preserves invaluable spiritual assets about the 'Father of the Nation' Ho Chi Minh and his love for the independent and free Vietnam.
Ba Dinh Square - Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum
- Address: Hung Vuong, Dien Ban, Ba Dinh, Hanoi
- Opening hours: 5:00 AM - 10:00 PM
22. Truc Bach Lake Hanoi
Besides Hoan Kiem Lake and West Lake - which are already famous - Hanoi still has many other beautiful lakes; for example, Truc Bach Lake, located in the northeast of Ba Dinh district. Originally part of West Lake, it was separated by the villagers of Yen Quang (now Quan Thanh Street) and Yen Hoa (now Yen Phu) to cultivate and fish. Taking a stroll around Truc Bach Lake, you can also visit many notable historical sites such as Quan Thanh Temple, Tran Quoc Pagoda, Trung Tien Temple, Chau Long Pagoda, and Ngu Xa Pagoda... Although the old villages in this area have been replaced by new residential areas and modern architectural works, walking around Truc Bach Lake still brings a sense of indescribable tranquility.
23. Vietnam Museum of Fine Arts
The Vietnam Museum of Fine Arts covers a total area of 4200m2, established in the 1930s. It serves as the 'common house' for over 20,000 artifacts from collections themed around Painting, Sculpture, Traditional Fine Arts, Ceramics, and Foreign Fine Arts - with 2,200 artifacts regularly on display. Just focusing on Vietnamese Fine Arts (from prehistoric to modern times), the Vietnam Museum of Fine Arts has and is preserving over 18,000 artifacts.
The unique Western architecture combined with the traditional Vietnamese village communal house style is also a plus, turning this place into a highly attractive check-in spot for the youth of Hanoi. Invite you to the Vietnam Museum of Fine Arts to admire the colorful cultural and artistic heritage of Vietnam's ethnic communities.
Vietnam Museum of Fine Arts
- Address: 66 Nguyen Thai Hoc, Dien Ban, Ba Dinh, Hanoi
- Opening hours: 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM, Tuesday - Sunday | Closed on Monday
24. Bat Trang Ceramic Village
Whether you have a passion for traditional pottery art or not, you must have heard of Bat Trang Ceramic Village. Located on the banks of the Red River, now in Gia Lam district, Hanoi, Bat Trang Ceramic Village has existed and developed for over 500 years, being the 'brain' of ceramic production with small family units alongside large-scale companies.
Through the timeline, Bat Trang Ceramic Village still preserves the valuable artistic values and traditional cultural essence imbued into each product. The most interesting thing when traveling to Bat Trang Ceramic Village is that you will witness the meticulous pottery-making process by the skillful hands of artisans. Don't forget to bring home some utensils, decorative items... as souvenirs.
25. One Pillar Pagoda
The architecture of 'a temple built on a single pillar' is the first impression when talking about One Pillar Pagoda. Built in 1049, under the reign of King Ly Thai Tong and taking over 50 years to complete (1105), One Pillar Pagoda carries the meaning of 'long-lasting blessings'. This temple is also known by other names such as Mat Pagoda, Single Pillar Tower, Lotus Pod, or Dien Huu Tu. Through several renovations, the present-day One Pillar Pagoda was designed by architect Nguyen Ba Lang, born in 1955, inspired by Nguyen dynasty architecture.
26. Ho Chi Minh Presidential Palace Historical Site
Although President Ho Chi Minh has passed away, the exemplary life of diligence, frugality, integrity, and patriotism always shines. If you're passionate about exploring history, please visit the Ho Chi Minh Presidential Palace Historical Site (or the Presidential Palace Area). This is where Uncle Ho lived and worked from 19/12/1954 to 02/09/1969 - ranked 23rd among special national relics.
The Ho Chi Minh Presidential Palace Historical Site covers an area of over 14 hectares, including 16 structures with a history ranging from 40 years to over 100 years old. The most prominent include the Uncle Ho Stilt House area, House 54, House 67, Presidential Flower Garden Pavilion, Prime Minister's House, Order Issuing House, Uncle Ho's Vest, Mango Alley... #teamKlook will surely feel 'the revolutionary life is truly magnificent' when visiting this Hanoi tourist destination.
27. Long Bien Bridge
You may not know: Long Bien Bridge is the first steel bridge across the Red River, built from 1898 to 1902. Initially named Doumer Bridge, it was constructed by the French with the expectation of serving the exploitation of French Indochina and Vietnam. Built by the Daydé & Pillé company (Paris, France), Long Bien Bridge was once known as the largest construction project in Indochina at that time, applying advanced engineering techniques to ensure both technical and artistic elements. Today, this 'historical witness' connects Long Bien District and Hoan Kiem District of Hanoi, serving as a vibrant spot for #teamKook to capture memorable moments.
Read more about Long Bien Bridge in the article below!
Hanoi - modern yet ancient - still possesses irresistible charms that defy description. Spend several days exploring the famous tourist attractions in Hanoi. Don't forget to follow Klook Vietnam's Blog to update experiences of solo travel in Hanoi, 3-day 2-night Hanoi itinerary, day trip to Hanoi reviews, list of resorts near Hanoi, Hanoi hotels, Hanoi homestays, Hanoi museums and many other useful travel news.
Have you chosen an exciting Hanoi tourist destination to explore in your upcoming journey?
