11 Unmissable Attractions in Hanoi, Vietnam
🌏 A City That Will Surprise, Delight, and Challenge You
Nestled along the Red River, Hanoi is a city that seamlessly blends deep history with chaotic charm. Once named Thang Long (“Soaring Dragon”) by Emperor Ly Thai To in 1010, the capital has weathered centuries of change—from colonial rule and war to modern development—emerging as one of Asia’s most compelling destinations. From historic sites to lively street scenes, here are 11 must-visit spots to explore in Hanoi.
1. Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum
A solemn and iconic site where visitors pay tribute to Vietnam’s beloved leader. The preserved body of Ho Chi Minh lies inside a glass case, guarded by soldiers in full uniform.
🎟 Admission: 35,000 VND
🕗 Hours: 8:00 AM – 11:00 AM (Tue–Thu, Sat–Sun), last entry 10:15 AM
📍 Address: No. 1 Hung Vuong, Ba Dinh District
2. One Pillar Pagoda
Built in 1049, this graceful pagoda stands on a single stone pillar above a lotus pond, symbolizing purity. It was constructed as a thank-you to the Goddess of Mercy for granting the emperor a son.
🎟 Admission: 25,000 VND
🕗 Hours: 8:00 AM – 11:30 AM daily; 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM (Tue–Thu, Sat–Sun)
📍 Address: Chua Mot Cot, Ba Dinh District
3. Old Quarter
Wander through Hanoi’s maze-like Old Quarter, a compact district of 36 streets—each historically dedicated to a different trade. From silverware to silk, every alley offers a unique glimpse into the city’s commercial past.
💡 Pro Tip: Grab a cold bia hơi and some street food at the lively beer corner (Ta Hien & Luong Ngoc Quyen).
🎟 Admission: Free
🕗 Hours: 7:00 AM – Midnight
📍 Location: North of Hoan Kiem Lake
4. Hanoi Opera House
A stunning piece of French colonial architecture, the Opera House hosts top-notch performances ranging from ballet to modern acrobatics.
💡 Don’t miss My Village, a contemporary circus show combining dance and traditional music.
🎟 Admission: From 300,000 VND (depending on show)
📍 Address: No. 1 Trang Tien, Hoan Kiem
5. Vietnamese Women’s Museum
This museum highlights the essential role women have played in Vietnam’s cultural, spiritual, and wartime history. Exhibits range from textiles to spiritual practices like Mother Goddess worship.
🎟 Admission: 30,000 VND
🕗 Hours: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Tue–Sun)
📍 Address: 36 Ly Thuong Kiet, Hoan Kiem
6. Water Puppet Theatre
A fun, family-friendly performance rooted in centuries-old traditions. Puppeteers control wooden figures from behind a screen over a pool of water, telling folk tales through music and movement.
🎟 Admission: 100,000 VND
🕗 Showtimes: Multiple daily performances from 3:30 PM to 9:30 PM
📍 Address: 57B Dinh Tien Hoang, Hoan Kiem
7. Hoan Kiem Lake
Revered by locals and tourists alike, this peaceful lake is home to the legendary Turtle Tower. Watch locals do tai chi at sunrise or enjoy a sunset stroll along its leafy paths.
🎟 Admission: Free
🕗 Hours: Open 24/7
📍 Location: Center of Hoan Kiem District
8. Ngoc Son Temple
Linked to the mainland by a bright red bridge, this lakeside temple honors national heroes and scholars. A peaceful escape right in the heart of the city.
🎟 Admission: 20,000 VND
🕗 Hours: 7:30 AM – 5:30 PM
📍 Address: Hoan Kiem Lake, Hoan Kiem
9. Temple of Literature
Hanoi’s first university and a symbol of Vietnam’s intellectual heritage. Founded in 1070 and dedicated to Confucius, it features serene courtyards and stone steles listing successful scholars.
🎟 Admission: 30,000 VND
🕗 Hours:
Nov–Mar: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Apr–Oct: 7:30 AM – 6:00 PM (Closed Mondays)
📍 Address: 58 Quoc Tu Giam, Dong Da District
10. Vietnam Museum of Ethnology
A cultural treasure trove showcasing the traditions of Vietnam’s 54 ethnic groups. Don’t miss the outdoor section, where full-size stilt houses and tombs reflect the country’s rich diversity.
🎟 Admission: 40,000 VND
🕗 Hours: 8:30 AM – 5:30 PM (Tue–Sun)
📍 Address: Nguyen Van Huyen Street, Cau Giay District
11. St. Joseph’s Cathedral
With its Gothic architecture inspired by Notre Dame de Paris, this 19th-century cathedral stands tall in the Old Quarter. A popular spot for photos, coffee, and people-watching.
🎟 Admission: Free
🕗 Hours: 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM & 2:00 PM – 6:00 PM daily
📍 Address: 40 Nha Chung Street, Hoan Kiem
📌 Travel Tip:
Want a sneak peek before you visit? Take a 360-degree virtual tour of Hanoi online and plan your itinerary like a pro!