Beyond the impressive architecture, unique culture, and diverse cuisine, Hanoi also captivates visitors with its timeless old quarter and the fresh atmosphere of its countryside villages. If you're planning to travel to Hanoi soon, make sure to visit the four stunning ancient villages – Duong Lam, Cu Da, Uoc Le, and Dong Ngac.
Duong Lam Ancient Village
Located about 50km from downtown Hanoi, Duong Lam Ancient Village in Son Tay district is a popular spot for both local and international tourists. This village, over 300 years old, features many traditional houses with red tiled roofs.

Duong Lam Ancient Village: Peaceful and Lush - Image collected
Duong Lam Ancient Village draws visitors with its rustic cobblestone streets, distinctive laterite stone walls, communal well, and solemn temples. While here, you can also visit the Son Tay Ancient Citadel, located about 3 kilometers away from the village.
Visitors can explore Duong Lam village at any time of year, but if you visit during the rice harvest season in May or September, you’ll be treated to a stunning and nostalgic sight: pathways covered with straw, blending harmoniously with the greenery of the trees and the blue sky.
Cu Da Ancient Village
Cu Da Village is an ideal domestic travel destination for those interested in exploring ancient architecture, traditional crafts, or simply seeking a moment of tranquility for the soul.
Located just 20 kilometers from Hanoi, this village is very convenient for visitors. You can come here on weekdays for a more peaceful experience or on weekends to easily learn about the history and try out traditional crafts.

The majestic temple inside Cu Da Village - Photo: Internet
Cu Da Ancient Village features not only three or five-room houses but also two-story French-style buildings that date back over a century. From simple scenes like the communal yard, water wharf, and banyan tree to time-worn landmarks such as the red-tiled roofs, village gates, and weathered brick walls, visitors will feel as though they’ve traveled back in time.
Uoc Le Ancient Village
Located in Tan Uoc commune, Thanh Oai district, Hanoi, Uoc Le Ancient Village is renowned far and wide for its traditional sausage-making craft. In addition, the village is a source of pride for its distinctive ancient Vietnamese architecture, including the towering village gate, deep moats, traditional houses, communal roofs, and markets that have remained largely unchanged for centuries.

If you're feeling worn out from the hustle and bustle of life, come to Uoc Le and experience tranquility - Image collected
If you’re truly searching for a peaceful retreat away from the noise and chaos of the city, this is the place to be. Spending a day here will leave your spirit light and at ease.
Dong Ngac Ancient Village
Although not as famous as the three other villages, Dong Ngac possesses a mysterious charm that captivates anyone who steps foot in it. The village, also known as Vẽ Village or Kẻ Vẽ, is located by the Red River, close to the Thang Long Bridge. It boasts the timeless beauty of narrow alleyways lined with slanted brick paths.

Dong Ngac Village is home to many priceless ancient architectural structures - Photo: Mai Lân/ Kênh 14
Affordable tourism here may surprise visitors, as it is only about 10 kilometers from the center of the capital. Yet, the village has preserved the traditional rural charm of Vietnam.
Visiting Đông Ngạc, tourists will be introduced to the ancestral churches of the Phan, Phạm, Hoàng, Đỗ, and Nguyễn families, where valuable relics are carefully preserved. Moreover, visitors have the opportunity to admire the peaceful and serene rural landscape and engage in a variety of exciting activities.
