Top 12 Weekend Getaways in Hanoi

Located within the Vinhomes Times City urban complex at 458 Minh Khai Street, Hai Ba Trung District, Hanoi, Vinpearl Aquarium Times City is a massive aquatic wonderland with a capacity of 3 million liters of seawater, home to over 30,000 marine creatures. This aquarium is the first in Hanoi to feature an underwater tunnel and is divided into three main sections: The Freshwater Zone, inspired by the Amazon Rainforest, where visitors can observe species like red-tail catfish, stingrays, and freshwater sharks; The Reptile Cave, home to fascinating reptiles such as golden pythons, lizards, and crocodiles; and the Saltwater Zone, which attracts many visitors with its diverse marine life including corals, rays, and predator fish, alongside live performances like mermaid shows and feeding sessions. Notably, this aquarium also houses penguins, a first in Vietnam, allowing visitors to enjoy these Antarctic birds without traveling to the South Pole.

CONTACT DETAILS:
Address: 458 Minh Khai, Hai Ba Trung District, Hanoi
Phone: 1900 6677
Email: [email protected]
Website: https://vinwonders.com/vi/
Fanpage: https://www.facebook.com/VinWonders.TimesCity.Official/
Opening Hours: 10:00 AM - 10:00 PM

When visiting Hanoi, tourists cannot miss the museums that reflect the city's historical significance, designed in classic yet striking architecture. Among these, the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology stands out as a unique space to explore the rich cultural heritage of the 54 ethnic groups in Vietnam.

Starting with the Dong Son Drum building that introduces the 54 Vietnamese ethnicities, the museum has gradually developed the Architectural Garden, which features 10 traditional structures representing various ethnic groups and cultural regions. The museum also connects to Southeast Asian cultures through the Kite Pavilion and further expands its collections to showcase artifacts from Asia, Oceania, Africa, and Latin America. With over 20 years of history, alongside permanent and temporary exhibitions, cultural performances, and educational programs, the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology has become a vibrant cultural hub. It is a must-visit attraction for both local and international visitors, offering an enriching experience. The museum continually evolves, presenting diverse cultural exhibits that adapt to the changing needs of society.

CONTACT INFORMATION:
Address: Nguyen Van Huyen, Cau Giay District, Hanoi
Phone: 024 3756 2193
Email: [email protected]
Website: vme.org.vn
Fanpage: https://www.facebook.com/btdth/
Opening Hours: 08:30 AM - 05:30 PM

The Temple of Literature, located in the Dong Da district of Hanoi, is situated at the crossroads of four main streets: Nguyen Thai Hoc, Ton Duc Thang, Van Mieu, and Quoc Tu Giam. If you're exploring Hanoi's rich cultural history, the Temple of Literature - Quoc Tu Giam is a must-visit destination. Founded in 1070 during the reign of King Ly Thanh Tong, it was originally dedicated to Confucius, Chu Gong, and the Four Assistants. In 1076, King Ly Nhan Tong established the Quoc Tu Giam (Imperial Academy) nearby, a prestigious university for royal family members and aristocrats. Under the reign of King Tran Thai Tong, the academy was renamed to Quoc Hoc Vien and opened its doors to exceptional scholars from commoner families. During the Le Dynasty, under King Le Thanh Tong, the stone steles commemorating the scholars who passed the doctoral exams were erected. During the Nguyen Dynasty, the Quoc Tu Giam was relocated to Hue. The Temple of Literature, also known as the Hanoi Temple of Literature, underwent restoration and today stands as a historic site of great importance.

Temple of Literature - Quoc Tu Giam now spans an area of 54,331 m2 and features several distinctive architectural structures. Enclosed by large brick walls, the site includes the Ho Van, Van Mieu Gate, Dai Trung Gate, Khuê Văn Các, Thien Quang Well, Doctoral Stelae, Dai Thanh Gate, and the Tai Hoc House. On the east and west sides, there are two long rows of 14 rooms each for the teaching staff. The student classrooms consist of three rows of 25 rooms, each accommodating two students. The architecture of the Temple of Literature today dates back to the early Nguyen period, and its design follows the layout of the Confucius Temple in China, albeit in a simplified form that adheres to traditional Vietnamese artistic principles.

CONTACT INFORMATION:
Address: 58 Quoc Tu Giam, Dong Da District, Hanoi
Phone: 0438 452 917 & 0438 235 601
Email: [email protected]
Website: http://Vanmieu.gov.vn/
Fanpage: https://www.facebook.com/vanmieuquoctugiam
Opening Hours: 08:00 AM - 05:00 PM

The Hanoi Opera House is ideally located on the bustling and lively Trang Tien Street, one of the most popular streets in Hanoi. To the right of the opera house stands the Hilton Opera Hotel, a charming and unique French colonial-style building. From the Opera House's location, visitors can enjoy scenic views of Hanoi.

The Hanoi Opera House is not only a venue for outstanding artistic performances but also one of Hanoi's top tourist attractions. The first area visitors encounter is the grand lobby, which features classical decorations that create a luxurious atmosphere. The Mirror Room is used for important ceremonies, treaty signings, or welcoming distinguished guests from both within Vietnam and abroad. The front balcony of the Hanoi Opera House showcases images of major events held at the August Revolution Square, with views overlooking this large square. The second area of the opera house is the performance hall, where cultural activities and performances by domestic and international art troupes take place. The front of the hall is elaborately decorated with frescoes and relief sculptures, complemented by a stunning gold-plated crystal chandelier. The floor is covered with tiled flooring and carpet, and the seats are designed in the classical French style. The interior of the hall harmonizes lighting, colors, and sound, creating a perfect atmosphere for performances. After exploring, visitors can enjoy live classical music performances inside the hall, combining the joy of sightseeing with delightful music.

CONTACT INFORMATION:
Address: 1 Trang Tien, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi
Phone: 024 3933 0113
Email: [email protected]
Website: http://hanoioperahouse.org.vn/
Fanpage: https://www.facebook.com/NhahatlonHN/
Opening Hours: 10:30 AM - 12:00 PM

Duong Lam Ancient Village is the first village in Vietnam to be recognized as a National Historic and Cultural Monument in 2006. This village is a unique example of the traditional architecture and art of a rural Vietnamese village in the Red River Delta. Today, Duong Lam Village retains many original features of a typical Vietnamese village, such as the village gate, ancient banyan tree, pond, communal yard, well, rice fields, hills, temples, and pagodas. The ancient village gate, located in Mong Phu village, faces southeast and consists of a two-roof house right at the entrance, beside a 300-year-old banyan tree, a pond, and lotus flowers, creating a rare and beautiful landscape that has remained almost untouched over time. Walking into the village along clean brick-paved roads, visitors pass by walls made of yellowish laterite stone, evoking a warm, peaceful atmosphere. The village festival takes place annually in the first lunar month.

At Duong Lam Ancient Village, the Mong Phu village traditional festival is held from the 4th to the 10th day of the first lunar month. It is the most sacred festival of the year, with rituals such as the Village God ceremony, where offerings of pigs and chickens are made. Locals also participate in traditional games like human chess, cockfighting, blindfolded duck catching, and more, creating a lively and festive atmosphere. Six days later, the Dong Sang village festival takes place, praying for national peace and a bountiful harvest, with exciting activities such as lion dancing, water procession, and ritual ceremonies. The water procession starts at the village’s communal house and travels to the Red River, with dragons, lions, horses, and flags, lasting almost an entire day. Visiting Duong Lam during this time will immerse you in the vibrant festival atmosphere and allow you to enjoy local specialty foods exclusive to the event.

CONTACT INFORMATION:
Address: Duong Lam, Son Tay Town, Hanoi
Fanpage: https://www.facebook.com/langcoduonglamsontayhanoi/

Bat Trang Ceramic Museum is located along the Red River, in Gia Lam District, on the outskirts of Hanoi. The name Bat Trang translates to "big yard," and the village has a rich history dating back to the Le Dynasty. Renowned as the oldest and most famous ceramic village in Vietnam, Bat Trang is a must-visit destination for both local and international travelers. The village specializes in producing a wide range of ceramics, from everyday items to decorative art pieces. One of the most exciting experiences in Bat Trang is the opportunity to witness skilled artisans creating intricate ceramic products, or even try your hand at shaping your own creations. Visitors can also explore the village on a traditional water buffalo cart, immersing themselves in the rural charm. Key historical sites include the ancient Van Van House, a 200-year-old wooden house decorated with ceramic details, and the Bat Trang communal house, where local festivals and rituals are held. If you visit during a festival, you'll experience the lively atmosphere and unique cultural practices.

At the Bat Trang Ceramic Museum, visitors can take part in hands-on ceramic making, turning clay into their own unique masterpieces. With a very affordable entry fee, you can become a potter for the day, guided by expert artisans who will teach you how to mold your creation on the pottery wheel. Once completed, your creation will be fired and ready to take home as a souvenir. You can also shop for unique souvenirs in the Bat Trang Ceramic Market, where many beautiful ceramic items such as cups, plates, and home decorations are sold. All products are handcrafted by skilled artisans, and you can even watch the potters in action at mini pottery stations within the market.

CONTACT INFORMATION:
Address: Bat Trang, Gia Lam District, Hanoi
Fanpage: https://www.facebook.com/BaoTangGomBatTrang
Opening Hours: 08:00 - 18:00

When visiting Hanoi, you'll have the chance to admire stunning landmarks and experience the bustling yet serene atmosphere of the Old Quarter. However, one of the first places you'll likely want to visit is the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum. This monumental structure stands proudly alongside Ba Dinh Square, having withstood the test of time and history. The Mausoleum continues to serve as a place of reverence for President Ho Chi Minh, the beloved father of Vietnam. It remains an essential site for tourists in Hanoi, officially opened on September 2, 1973, and completed on August 19, 1975. It houses the embalmed body of the late President Ho Chi Minh, a world-renowned cultural figure. The Mausoleum is part of a larger complex that includes Ba Dinh Square, the Presidential Palace, and Ho Chi Minh's stilt house.

The Mausoleum's main façade faces east, toward Ba Dinh Square. It consists of three levels, reaching a height of 21.6 meters. The lower level has multiple steps, leading to a podium used for state ceremonies. The central level houses the embalmed body of Ho Chi Minh, with a hallway and stairs for visitors. The top of the Mausoleum is designed to resemble a lotus flower in bloom. In front of the building is an inscription of 'President Ho Chi Minh' in rose-colored jade stone. The Mausoleum is typically open for visitors in the mornings from Tuesday to Sunday, except for 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 may open even if those dates fall on a Monday or Friday. Visitors usually begin their tour at the Mausoleum, then proceed to Ho Chi Minh's stilt house, the fish pond, the Ho Chi Minh Museum, and finally the One Pillar Pagoda.

Contact Information:

Address: 8 Hung Vuong, Ba Dinh District, Hanoi

Phone: 024 3845 5128

Website: https://www.bqllang.gov.vn/

Opening Hours: 07:30 - 10:30

Hoan Kiem Lake is located in the heart of Hanoi, surrounded by three streets: Hang Khay, Le Thai To, and Dinh Tien Hoang. In the past, the lake was known by other names such as Luc Thuy Lake (Green Water Lake) or Thuy Quan Lake (Naval Training Lake) due to its use for naval exercises. By the 15th century, the lake was renamed Hoan Kiem Lake (Returned Sword Lake), linked to the legend of Emperor Le Thai To returning a sacred sword to a golden turtle. Hoan Kiem Lake is a popular gathering place and a perfect spot to visit throughout the year: vibrant with peach blossoms and traditional festivals in spring, cool with refreshing breezes in summer, captivating with willow trees shrouded in mist during autumn, and picturesque with golden leaves and light drizzles in winter. Not only is it a stunning natural landmark, but it also holds significant cultural and historical value for Hanoi. The lake is home to two small islands: Ngoc Island, located to the north, connected by the curved The Huc Bridge, and Turtle Island, which features the ancient Turtle Tower, standing proudly amid the shimmering waters.

On weekends, the streets around Hoan Kiem Lake transform into pedestrian zones filled with exciting activities such as street music and folk games, attracting many visitors. On Ngoc Island, the Ngoc Son Temple is not only a historic site but also a place of worship for the God of Literature, Văn Xương, and General Tran Hung Dao. The temple complex includes The Huc Bridge, the Pen Tower, the Inkstand Pavilion, and Tran Ba Temple, forming an architectural ensemble rich in historical and cultural significance. The harmonious combination of the Ngoc Son Temple and Hoan Kiem Lake creates a beautiful balance between human-made structures and nature. In addition, the Hanoi Opera House, located on the August Revolution Square, was designed and built by the French in 1901, modeled after the Opera Garnier in Paris. It is another iconic location in Hanoi that should not be missed by tourists.

Address: Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi

West Lake has become a beloved destination, drawing people like a magnet. Thanh Nien Street, also known as Co Ngu, once marked the boundary between West Lake and Truc Bach Lake, and today it is a popular spot to visit, especially in the evening. Many visitors seek a quiet corner by the lake to enjoy a breeze, sip coffee at one of the lakeside cafés, try the famous fried shrimp cake, enjoy ice cream, or dine at upscale restaurants located along the lake or on floating boats. Some prefer simply strolling around the lake, breathing in the fresh air before continuing their journey or heading home. The area gets especially crowded during weekends, and traffic along Thanh Nien Street can sometimes become backed up. On the large boat decks on the lake, couples are seen happily celebrating their wedding day, surrounded by family and friends. By the shore, an elderly man with a white beard and cane gazes at the western horizon, watching the sunset.

West Lake is not only captivating because of its vast waters and the purple hue of the blooming Lagerstroemia flowers or the bright red phoenix petals in summer, but also for the poignant atmosphere created by the weeping willows in winter. It is a place that seems to listen to the joys and sorrows of countless people. West Lake is often considered one of the most romantic spots in Hanoi, a world of serenity, openness, and poetic charm. Over the years, it has inspired many poets, writers, and artists, giving birth to countless songs, poems, and works of art that resonate with many. The Tay Ho Shrine, located on the large peninsula in the middle of West Lake, is one of Hanoi's most sacred places. Dedicated to Princess Lieu Hanh (the Holy Mother), a mythical figure in Vietnamese folklore and one of the four immortal saints, it attracts large numbers of pilgrims every year, especially after the Lunar New Year, for prayers and to enjoy the beauty of West Lake.

Address: Tay Ho District, Hanoi

Jump Arena is the perfect place to visit when you're looking for an indoor playground packed with both simple and thrilling activities. At this trampoline park, you can boost your fitness by engaging in activities like free jumping, basketball, dodgeball, and rock climbing. The park is built around the trampoline concept, which is a popular form of exercise for young people worldwide, often combined with a gym workout. The complex includes sports facilities, team games, and various other exciting activities. If you love staying active, you'll definitely enjoy the games here.

At Jump Arena, there are no complicated rules or advanced skills required. Simply relax, leap into the air, perform flips, and land safely on the soft trampoline mats without the risk of falling or colliding. Try different poses while soaring into the air, and challenge yourself to climb, run, swing, jump, and dive. Experience the thrill of scoring a basket, racing against time, and performing stunning spins and throws. The arena is covered with soft foam blocks above the large trampoline, allowing you to perform aerial tricks with freedom. Alternatively, you can simply enjoy the smooth jumps and soft landings. This is also a great way to relieve stress, lift your spirits, and have a blast.

Contact Information:
Address:

• 1A Tang Bat Ho, Hai Ba Trung District, Hanoi
• Big C Thang Long Shopping Center, 222 Tran Duy Hung, Cau Giay District, Hanoi

Phone: 1900 789 906
Email: [email protected]
Website: http://jumparena.vn/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jumparena.vn
Opening Hours: 09:00 - 20:00

Opened in 2008 with an initial investment of $100 million, Bao Son Paradise Park is a key part of a larger urban development project in An Khanh, Hanoi. This new urban area is set to be a future highlight of Northern Vietnam, with unique architectural structures, a focus on feng shui, and a commitment to showcasing Vietnamese culture while meeting international standards for environment, safety, and security. Located just 6 kilometers from the National Convention Center along Thang Long Boulevard, Bao Son Paradise Park is a unique entertainment hub that blends economics with tourism. It harmoniously combines tradition and modernity, making it a cultural, artistic, technological, ecological, and culinary paradise. The park is a beautiful space that cleverly blends nature with man-made creations, combining both ancient and modern architecture. The refreshing atmosphere offers visitors a peaceful and revitalizing experience.

Bao Son Paradise Park is made up of eight distinct zones: cultural, ecological, gaming, arts, food, technology, seminars, and water activities. The ecological zone is the most popular, divided into three areas: the rare animal zoo, the ocean world, and the ecological park. Among all the attractions, the ecological park is the most favored. Visitors can marvel at rare and exotic animals like giraffes, white tigers, and cheetahs, brought from South Africa and North America. The ocean world is another highlight, featuring an array of stunning and unique fish species in the aquarium. The multi-functional stage is also a popular spot, particularly for children.

Contact Information:
Address: Le Trong Tan, Hoai Duc District, Hanoi
Phone: 1900 066 808
Email: [email protected]
Website: https://baosonparadise.vn/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/congvienthienduongbaoson/
Opening Hours: 08:00 - 17:00

Hoa Lo Prison, also known by its French name Maison Centrale, meaning central prison, was constructed in 1896 and still stands today at 1 Hoa Lo Street, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi. This historic prison was once used to incarcerate political prisoners and revolutionaries. It is a place that bears witness to brutal crimes and the unwavering spirits of countless Vietnamese patriots.

Over time and through the many turbulent events of history, the prison has preserved approximately 2,434 square meters to be developed as a historical site. A visit to this museum allows you to experience vivid exhibits that recreate the lives of the prisoners. You can explore authentic prison cells, the ancient banyan tree which served as a spiritual refuge for the revolutionaries, and one of the most emotionally moving areas – the Cachot, or “hell within hell” – a dark, cramped dungeon where prisoners endured torture and isolation. The harsh living conditions and lack of sunlight led to diseases and, in some cases, insanity.

In addition to the historical artifacts and real-life accounts, Hoa Lo Prison has gained popularity among young visitors through creative media on its social media platforms. The museum now offers innovative experiences such as virtual tours through online exhibitions, podcasts on Spotify, and the unique Sacred Night tour – a moving journey back in time, featuring dramatic re-enactments enhanced with sound and light effects.

Contact Information:
Address: 1 Hoa Lo, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/hoaloprisonrelic
Opening Hours: 08:00 - 17:00