Top 10 Most Exciting Places to Visit in Hanoi

The Temple of Literature - Quoc Tu Giam is a historic site covering an area of 54,331 square meters, with several distinct architectural structures. The entire complex is enclosed by brick walls. After various renovations, the site includes important landmarks such as the Van Lake, the Temple of Literature Gate, the Dai Trung Gate, the Khuê Văn Pavilion, the Thiên Quang Well, the Doctoral Stelae, the Đại Thành Gate, and the Thái Học House. The teaching buildings, located on the east and west sides, have 14 rooms each, while the student classrooms consist of three rows with 25 rooms in each row, each holding two students. The entire architecture of the Temple of Literature today reflects the style of the early Nguyen Dynasty. The layout follows a north-south axis and is modeled after the Confucian temple in China, though on a simpler scale and adhering to traditional Vietnamese artistic style.

The Temple of Literature - Quoc Tu Giam is not only the first university of Vietnam but also a symbol of the enduring passion for education in the country. Visiting here, you feel inspired by the golden plaques honoring scholars of the past, fueling your own journey of learning and intellectual discovery. Today, the Temple is also a venue for poetry festivals, a place to honor outstanding students, and a popular tourist attraction for both domestic and international visitors. It is also a traditional spot for people to seek blessings for the new year or during national exam seasons, hoping for academic success.

The Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum is one of the most iconic landmarks in Hanoi, a must-see for all visitors. Construction of the mausoleum began on September 2, 1973, and was completed on August 19, 1975. It houses the preserved body of President Ho Chi Minh, the great leader of Vietnam and a world-renowned cultural figure. The mausoleum is part of a larger complex, which includes Ba Dinh Square, the Presidential Palace, and Ho Chi Minh's stilt house. The main entrance of the mausoleum faces Ba Dinh Square to the east. The mausoleum is structured in three levels, standing 21.6 meters tall. The lower section has a stepped design, with a podium used for official ceremonies. The middle section contains the mausoleum hall, the room where Ho Chi Minh’s body is displayed, corridors, and stairways. The upper part features a roof designed to resemble a blooming lotus flower. On the front of the mausoleum is the inscription 'President Ho Chi Minh' in ruby-red stone.

The Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum is generally open to visitors in the mornings on most days except Mondays and Fridays. However, on special occasions such as Lunar New Year's Day, May 19 (Ho Chi Minh's birthday), and September 2 (National Day), the mausoleum remains open even if they fall on Mondays or Fridays. Typically, visitors follow a set route starting at the mausoleum, then proceed to Ho Chi Minh's stilt house, the fish pond, and finally visit the Ho Chi Minh Museum and One Pillar Pagoda. The pathway leading from the mausoleum to the stilt house is surrounded by tranquil lakes and lush gardens, providing a peaceful and refreshing atmosphere. Visitors can learn more about the life and revolutionary career of Ho Chi Minh or explore his modest living quarters. After touring the stilt house, guests may visit the Presidential Palace and the museum, and enjoy refreshments or purchase souvenirs at the nearby stalls.

The Hanoi Old Quarter Night Market stretches over 3 kilometers from Hang Dao Street to the Dong Xuan Market Gate. Regardless of the weather, from 6 PM to 11 PM on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday nights, the streets of Hang Ngang, Hang Dao, and Hang Duong come alive with vibrant energy. Set within the charming, ancient streets of Hanoi, this special market features nearly 4,000 stalls offering a wide variety of items, from clothes and toys to souvenirs, handicrafts, and delicious local foods at affordable prices. Walking through the market, you'll be immersed in a lively atmosphere of bright lights and colorful displays, with products sparkling under the lights, attracting the attention of all passersby. Especially during festivals like the Mid-Autumn Festival, Christmas, or Lunar New Year, the market sells colorful lanterns, star-shaped lights, and Christmas decorations, making it impossible to walk by without stopping to admire the sights.

A visit to the Old Quarter Night Market is a food lover's paradise, offering a wide array of delicious and tempting dishes. Strolling along the streets, you'll find everything from traditional Vietnamese snacks to Korean specialties and fusion dishes. Some popular treats among young visitors at the night market include grilled sour fermented pork, skewered meats, snail cakes, sticky rice cakes, Korean sushi rolls, tteokbokki, various desserts, and smoothies. The food here is reasonably priced, making it a favorite gathering spot for both young locals and tourists. Whether you're enjoying a leisurely walk with friends or family, tasting local delicacies, or soaking in live performances, a visit to the Old Quarter Night Market is the perfect way to relax and recharge for the week ahead.

Long Bien Bridge is the first steel bridge to cross the Red River, connecting the Hoan Kiem and Long Bien districts in Hanoi. Built by the French between 1898 and 1902 during the colonial era under Governor General Doumer, the bridge spans 2,290 meters across the river with an additional 896 meters of approach roads. It consists of 19 steel spans supported by 20 pillars, featuring an architectural style that is both functional and unique. Originally designed with a single railway track down the center, it also includes lanes for bicycles and pedestrians on either side. Remarkably, this bridge once held the title of the second-longest bridge in the world, surpassed only by Brooklyn Bridge, and was often called Hanoi's horizontal Eiffel Tower.

Long Bien Bridge has witnessed pivotal moments in Vietnam's history, especially during the two significant wars of resistance against French and American colonization. In 1945, as President Ho Chi Minh declared independence at Ba Dinh Square, the bridge served as a passage for thousands of people traveling to the square, marking a moment of national pride. Today, Long Bien is a cherished spot for young people who often ride their bikes to take in the fresh air or seek a quiet escape from the hustle of the city. It is also a favorite gathering place for students to sit, sing, and create lasting memories. The bridge continues to symbolize youth and history in Hanoi.

The Imperial Citadel of Thang Long is located within the Ba Dinh district of Hanoi, covering an area of 18.395 hectares. It encompasses the archaeological site of 18 Hoang Dieu and other remnants of the Hanoi Citadel, such as the Doan Mon Gate, Hanoi Flag Tower, Kinh Thien Palace, D67 House, Bac Mon Gate, Hau Lau, the city walls, and the eight gates of the Nguyen dynasty’s royal palace. The citadel is bounded by several streets: to the north by Phan Dinh Phung Road, to the south by Bac Son Street and the National Assembly Building, to the southwest by Dien Bien Phu Street, to the west by Hoang Dieu Street, the Independent Road, and the National Assembly House, and to the east by Nguyen Tri Phuong Road. This historic site is a must-see for anyone visiting Hanoi.

The archaeological site of 18 Hoang Dieu is a significant part of the Thang Long Imperial Citadel. The lower layers reveal parts of the Dai La Citadel from the Cao Bien era during the Tang dynasty, while the upper layers showcase the palaces of the Ly and Tran dynasties. Further up, there are traces of the Le Dynasty’s Eastern Palace and the 19th-century Hanoi provincial capital. The Hanoi Flag Tower, built in 1812 during Gia Long's reign, is another key landmark. Standing 60 meters tall, it consists of a square base with three levels that gradually narrow as they rise. The first two levels each require 18 steps to ascend, with doors facing east and west, while the top level has four entrances: east, west, north, and south.

Hoan Kiem Lake is located in the heart of Hanoi, surrounded by three streets: Hang Khay, Le Thai To, and Dinh Tien Hoang. The lake has been known by other names in the past, such as Luc Thuy Lake (the Green Water Lake) or Thuy Quan Lake (because it was once used for training naval soldiers). By the 15th century, it was renamed Hoan Kiem Lake (Lake of the Returned Sword), connected to the legend of King Le Thai To returning a sacred sword to a golden turtle. Hoan Kiem Lake is a gathering place, a perfect spot year-round: vibrant with cherry blossoms and traditional festivals in the spring; breezy, offering respite from the summer heat; captivating with weeping willows and mist in the autumn; and mesmerizing with golden leaves and light drizzle in the winter. Not only is it a beautiful scenic spot that should not be missed by any visitor to Hanoi, but it is also deeply intertwined with the capital’s historical and spiritual traditions.

Hoan Kiem Lake has two small islands: the northern island, called Ngoc Island, is connected to the mainland by the iconic curved Thê Húc Bridge. In the center of the lake is the smaller Turtle Island, home to the ancient Turtle Tower that stands serenely amidst the glistening waters. On weekends, the streets around Hoan Kiem Lake turn into a pedestrian zone with activities like street music and folk games, drawing large crowds. Ngoc Son Temple, located on Ngoc Island, is not only a historical site but also a famous Hanoi landmark. It is dedicated to the god of literature, Văn Xương, and the revered national hero, Trần Hưng Đạo. Surrounding the temple are other historical landmarks such as Thê Húc Bridge, the Pen Tower, the Ink Stand, and Trấn Ba Pavilion. The combination of the Ngoc Son Temple and Hoan Kiem Lake creates a harmonious and timeless architectural landscape, beautifully balancing human achievement with nature.

Currently, shopping malls in Hanoi are developing rapidly, offering large-scale spaces that bring a new lifestyle experience to residents. These malls are like miniature cities, featuring a variety of amenities, entertainment options, healthcare services, schools, supermarkets, all within architecturally stunning and elegant designs. Many of these malls cater to all types of customers, making them a popular destination for young people. Despite being around for over five years, the mall craze continues to grow, welcoming thousands of visitors daily for shopping and sightseeing. Aeon Mall Long Bien, built by a Japanese corporation, reflects a strong Japanese cultural influence, and it offers top-notch products and services known for their quality, a hallmark of Japan's renowned reputation for excellence.

Located in a prime central area, Lotte on Lieu Giai Street makes a strong impression with its grandeur and towering height. Known as the second tallest building in Vietnam, after the Keang Nam Landmark Tower, it has quickly become a go-to destination for Hanoi residents, especially on weekends. The services here are top-tier in Vietnam, paying attention to the smallest details. Upon entering, customers are welcomed with friendly smiles and polite bows, and families with young children can use shopping carts or take a break in designated resting areas. Charging stations for phones are available everywhere to ensure maximum comfort and convenience. However, the products sold here are mostly in the premium segment, featuring globally recognized brands, which means most visitors come to explore, take photos, or simply escape the summer heat.

A newly discovered dining destination, Hang Buom Food Street, located in Hanoi’s Old Quarter, has become a hotspot for food lovers. The street may not have a large number of eateries, but the variety of food and affordable prices make it a favorite among young food enthusiasts. Hang Buom is a small street in Hanoi’s Hoan Kiem District. It spans 300 meters and is 7 meters wide, running from Dao Duy Tu Street to the intersection of Hang Ngang, Hang Duong, and Lan Ong Streets, crossing Hang Giay Street. Hang Buom Food Street has been likened to a modern, bustling microcosm of Hanoi. Here, you can immerse yourself in a culinary paradise, offering everything from traditional Vietnamese dishes to unique international flavors.

On Hang Buom Food Street, you can enjoy a wide range of delicious dishes, including traditional treats like “xoi chim” (sticky rice with bird), “cha oc” (snail cakes), sushi, Korean bibimbap, smoothies, and many street food items. Most of the food stalls here are small and focus on quick bites, making it easy to eat while exploring. You can savor Hanoi’s traditional flavors, such as grilled pork skewers, “xoi chim,” and various refreshing drinks like “che” (sweet dessert soups). There are also other popular snacks like dried beef salad, fried spring rolls, ice cream, grilled corn, roasted sweet potatoes, and tapioca root. Right next to the food street is a pedestrian zone, just a few minutes’ walk from Hoan Kiem Lake, where you can enjoy a lively atmosphere without the crowds typical of the food street.

Tạ Hiện Street is the busiest nightlife spot in Hanoi, with a pedestrian street that stretches from Tạ Hiện - Lương Ngọc Quyến - Hàng Bạc and continues to Hàng Ngang - Hàng Đào. During the French colonial era, Tạ Hiện was formed from a series of old streets, originally called Rue Géraud. The locals, however, still referred to this area as Quảng Lạc Alley, as it was home to one of Hanoi's most famous theatres, Quảng Lạc Theatre. Known for its cheo opera performances, Quảng Lạc was a lively hub for the elite, who would come to enjoy performances and socialize. Surrounding the theatre, a variety of eateries, cafes, and snack shops catered to theatergoers and late-night strollers. From noodle stalls to tea carts, and fried pastry vendors, the street is alive with constant chatter, creating a vibrant atmosphere late into the night.

Tạ Hiện Street is particularly famous for its 'Western Quarter,' though this short street, just over 100 meters long, is always packed with people. When visiting Tạ Hiện, you'll find yourself enjoying chilled, refreshing beers while sitting on plastic chairs on the bustling sidewalks. The street is also known for its tasty street food, including fried rice, grilled bird skewers, and cheese. Although these dishes are delicious, nothing quite compares to the local specialty: grass beer. This simple yet irresistibly charming drink captures the essence of the old quarter, and it has gained a following among both locals and international tourists. The French colonial architecture adds a romantic, dignified charm to this well-known street, which has earned comparisons to the Khaosan Road in Thailand. While the mornings are peaceful, Tạ Hiện transforms into a lively, enchanting scene as night falls.

Tràng Tiền Street is located in the heart of Hanoi, and it is not only home to several beautiful historic, cultural, and commercial landmarks but also bustling with numerous shops and boutiques. One of the most striking buildings here is the Hanoi Opera House, an architectural gem that began construction in 1901 and was completed in 1911. It stands on the August Revolution Square and has undergone several renovations. The opera house's performance hall, grand staircase, entrance, black-tiled roof, and intricate interior decorations are all styled after Western theatres, making it a prime venue for cultural events and artistic performances. Right in the middle of the street, the Công Nhân Theatre also lights up in the evening, welcoming visitors to enjoy its diverse shows.

At the end of Tràng Tiền Street, the National History Museum is always open to visitors, offering a deep dive into the nation's storied past. The museum showcases priceless artifacts that highlight the ups and downs of Vietnam's history. The layout of the museum is designed with a unique octagonal hall at its center. The surrounding area is lush with trees that bloom year-round: from spring's red silk cotton flowers to summer's purple-flowered Lagerstroemia, and winter's vibrant red maple leaves. Some of the beautiful gardens near Tràng Tiền, like the Cổ Tân Garden and the Opera House's garden, further enhance the area's charm. When it comes to commerce, the Tràng Tiền Plaza Shopping Center, built on the site of the former Hanoi General Department Store, is a major highlight. The plaza features over 200 international fashion, beauty, and accessory brands. Fashion enthusiasts can also explore various other boutiques along the street offering trendy clothes and accessories.