13 Famous Landmarks in Hanoi

As the cultural and political hub of the country, Hanoi boasts numerous beautiful landmarks with unique features that attract visitors. Here, VNTRIP.VN introduces you to the most famous landmarks you shouldn't miss when visiting the capital city of Hanoi.

Famous landmarks in Hanoi

1. Turtle Tower – Hoan Kiem Lake

At the forefront of the must-visit landmarks in Hanoi is Hoan Kiem Lake. Situated in the city center, it's often referred to as the 'heart' of the capital. Also known as the Sword Lake, it is intertwined with the legendary myth of King Le Loi returning the magic sword to the Golden Turtle. The greenish lake resembles a giant mirror reflecting the ancient willow branches, the graceful willow trees, the Post Office building, and the surrounding high-rise buildings against the blue sky.

In the middle of the lake, on a small green lawn, stands the solemn and splendid Turtle Tower, casting its shadow over the water. Around the lake is a venue for various cultural activities, events, fireworks displays, and lively artistic performances. This is undoubtedly the ideal location for booking a hotel near Hanoi's Old Quarter, allowing convenient access to dining, transportation, and exploring the Old Quarter along with Hoan Kiem Lake.

2. Ngoc Son Temple

The vermilion Thê Húc Bridge gracefully leads to Ngoc Son Temple, hidden behind ancient banyan trees. Built in the 19th century, the temple stands as an exemplary work of space and architectural composition. With a harmonious combination of the temple and the lake, Ngoc Son Temple, along with Hoan Kiem Lake, creates an integrated architectural ensemble, providing a harmonious space between nature and humanity.

Locals and many tourists often stroll from Hoan Kiem Lake to Ngoc Son Temple, offering incense and praying for good things. Ngoc Son Temple, along with Hoan Kiem Lake, Turtle Tower, Thê Húc Bridge, Pen Tower, and Ink Slab, has become a cluster of historical relics and scenic spots in Hanoi, showcasing distinctive and representative architecture that visitors cannot miss when exploring the capital.

3. Hanoi St. Joseph's Cathedral

Situated in the Old Quarter of Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi St. Joseph's Cathedral (also known as Hanoi Cathedral) is an ancient church with typical European Gothic architecture. Beyond its role as a religious center, the cathedral's exceptional architecture attracts many visitors for exploration and admiration. Here, you'll feel like you're standing in a grand ancient castle adorned with intricately carved golden lacquer woodwork and a system of vibrant stained glass windows.

In addition, many young Hanoians gather in this area to meet friends on weekends and enjoy lively conversations over glasses of 'Cathedral lemon tea.'

4. Hanoi Opera House

Nestled at the intersection of Trang Tien and Ngo Quyen Streets, Hanoi Opera House was constructed in the early 20th century and has since remained an architectural and cultural masterpiece of the capital. Designed in classical French style with many lines and colors resembling European theaters, the Hanoi Opera House has become a cultural hub hosting various events and large-scale performing arts activities in Vietnam. Explore the area in front of the theater to fully appreciate every corner of this grand architectural structure.

5. Imperial Citadel of Thang Long – Hanoi Flag Tower

Located on Hoang Dieu Street, the Imperial Citadel of Thang Long is a UNESCO World Heritage Site associated with the history of Thang Long – Hanoi under the Ly, Tran, Le, and Nguyen dynasties. It is a monumental architectural work with significant historical and archaeological value. Among the ancient structures within the Imperial Citadel, the Hanoi Flag Tower (also known as Ky Dai Hanoi) stands out, linked to many historical events of the nation. When the August Revolution succeeded, the red and yellow star flag on Hanoi Flag Tower fluttered proudly in the capital's sky for the first time.

With vast space and a lush, expansive landscape, the Imperial Citadel of Thang Long is an ideal location for many visitors to capture graduation photos and record beautiful moments.

6. Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum

Located next to Ba Dinh Square, where President Ho Chi Minh delivered the Declaration of Independence to establish the Socialist Republic of Vietnam, the final resting place of the great leader is surrounded by a lush four-season garden, providing a cool shade.

7. West Lake

West Lake is the 'lung' of the capital, with a lake area of over 500 hectares and a 17km-long lakeside road. Take a motorcycle ride around the lake to admire the romantic scenery along the clear blue lake, amidst the cool breeze, and visit some of the attractions near the lake, such as Nhat Tan cherry blossom village, Nghi Tam village, Quan Thanh Temple, and more.

Many seek West Lake as a peaceful retreat amidst the bustling city, where they can leisurely stroll and enjoy the fresh air in the morning, witness the lake gradually turning into vibrant shades of red and orange, reflecting the sunset light. It's a place to savor the famous West Lake shrimp cakes and find a familiar spot to feel the breeze as night falls.

There are numerous beautiful hotels around West Lake that are perfect for fully enjoying your vacation. This place has become intimately tied to the spiritual life of the city's residents.

8. Tran Quoc Pagoda

Located on Thanh Nien Street, Tran Quoc Pagoda is a sublime historical landmark with ancient architecture, solemnly blending with the elegant and tranquil landscape by the vast lake. Built in the 6th century, it is one of Hanoi's oldest temples, witnessing over a thousand years of architectural magnificence and the nation's historical ups and downs. With these values, it not only attracts Buddhists but also welcomes many visitors to explore and admire its beauty.

9. One Pillar Pagoda

Located within the Ho Chi Minh Museum, the One Pillar Pagoda is a renowned Hanoi attraction that captivates many visitors when they come to the capital. The pagoda features a unique architecture with a square structure perched on a stone pillar amidst a green lotus pond, resembling a lotus flower emerging in the middle of the lake.

10. Temple of Literature (Văn Miếu Quốc Tử Giám)

The Temple of Literature, also known as Văn Miếu Quốc Tử Giám, is an indispensable complex of scenic and historical landmarks when visiting Hanoi. This ensemble includes the Temple of Literature (dedicated to Confucius), Quốc Tử Giám (the first university in Vietnam), and Hồ Văn, Giám garden, Khuê Văn Các, and more.

The architectural brilliance of this complex is harmoniously concealed under the lush greenery of ancient trees, providing a unique and spectacular scene for visitors.

Today, the Temple of Literature is a venue for various cultural, scientific, and educational activities. Especially during Tet (Lunar New Year), traditional activities such as requesting calligraphy and folk games are organized, attracting both local residents and numerous international tourists.

You can book a hotel in Đống Đa district for the convenience of exploring this famous historical site.

11. Ô Quan Chưởng

As the sole remaining gate of ancient Thang Long, Ô Quan Chưởng not only showcases architectural beauty but also carries the heroic imprint of history. Built in 1817, initially named ô Đông Hà with 2 floors in the characteristic vọng lâu style of the Nguyen era. The name Ô Quan Chưởng was later given by the people to commemorate the brave sacrifice of Nguyen's officials and soldiers in the fight against the French colonizers when they attacked Hanoi.

Today, Ô Quan Chưởng stands on the street of the same name, a vibrant area with diverse goods and constant traffic. Enduring the fluctuations of history and time, Ô Quan Chưởng has undergone several renovations. Hence, the ancient moss-covered features have somewhat faded. However, it remains one of Hanoi's historical landmarks, preserving memories of a bygone era.

12. Long Bien Bridge

Built from 1899 to 1902, Long Bien Bridge is the first steel bridge spanning the Red River. Once the world's second-longest bridge, it was dubbed the 'horizontal Eiffel Tower of Hanoi'.

Long Bien Bridge is intertwined with two historic resistance wars, witnessing the nation's ascent after reunification. The bridge is now not just a historical relic but also a symbol of resilience, beauty, and cultural development in Hanoi's future growth.

13. Co Loa Citadel

The historical site of Co Loa is located in Co Loa commune, Dong Anh district. Built since the 3rd century BCE, Co Loa Citadel is the largest ancient fortress in Vietnam. It is intertwined with the myth of the magic crossbow of King An Duong Vuong and the tragic love story of Princess Mi Nuong – Trong Thuy.

Every year on the 6th day of the first lunar month, the people of Co Loa organize a festival to commemorate King An Duong Vuong for his contributions to the nation. If you want to explore the cultural beauty and local life, this is the perfect time to visit Co Loa.

Here are the 13 most famous scenic spots in Hanoi chosen by many tourists when visiting the capital. Besides these, there are still many other attractive tourist destinations in Hanoi waiting for you to discover. Don't forget to book cheap hotels in Hanoi on Vntrip!

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