If you’re looking for the coolest things to see and do in Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam, then you’ve come to the right place. Here, you will discover attractions that will give you an enriching exploration of this ancient city. Find out what to do in Hanoi and experience its vibrant charm firsthand!
1. Introduction to Hanoi
Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam, is one of the most historically and culturally rich cities in Southeast Asia. Known for its blend of ancient and modern.
The center of Hanoi is the Old Quarter with narrow, crowded streets, where you can see the lifestyle of local people through small cafes, sidewalk restaurants and handicraft shops. turmeric. Hoan Kiem Lake, located right near the Old Quarter, is an ideal meeting point for those looking for a quiet space to relax or stroll.
Hanoi is also famous for historical relics such as Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, Temple of Literature – Vietnam’s first university and Hanoi Cathedral – a symbol of remaining French architecture. In Vietnam.
With its natural beauty, the hospitality of Hanoi people will certainly satisfy anyone who wants to explore and experience.
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2. Visit historical relics when coming to Hanoi
Unique things what to do in Hanoi you cannot miss in the top 5 places to visit in Hanoi.
2.1. Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum
The mausoleum was built in 1973 and opened to the public in 1975. Located in Ba Dinh Square, where President Ho Chi Minh read the Declaration of Independence in 1945, declaring Vietnam’s independence.
Opening Hours: 7:30am to 10:30 am on Tuesdays to Sundays.
Ticket Price: Free.
Regulations.
- Clothing: Visitors must dress politely and discreetly, not wearing shorts, tank tops or revealing clothes.
- Behavior: Photography or filming is not allowed within the Mausoleum grounds. In addition, visitors need to maintain order and not talk or laugh loudly or smoke in the mausoleum area.
- Security: All visitors will have to go through security checks before entering the Mausoleum.
2.2. Quoc Tu Giam Temple
Built in 1070 during the reign of King Ly Thanh Tong, the Temple of Literature was used to worship Confucius, sages and cultural celebrities of Confucianism. Then, in 1076, Quoc Tu Giam was established right here and became the first university in Vietnam, for princes and nobles of the court.
Open time:
- Summer (April to October): Open from 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.
- Winter (November to March): Open from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
The Temple of Literature is open every day of the week, including holidays and weekends.
Fare:
- Adults: From 30,000 – 70,000 VND (about 1.30 USD – 3.04 USD).
- Students: Discounts may be available upon presentation of a student card.
- Children and the elderly: Often have reduced or free fares depending on the policy in place at the time.
2.3. Hanoi Opera House
Hanoi Opera House is one of Vietnam’s most unique classical architectural symbols, imbued with French colonial architectural style. Built in 1911 by French architects
- Address: No. 1 Trang Tien, Phan Chu Trinh Ward, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi
- Ticket Price: Depending on the type of program and seat location in the theater. Ranging from 200,000 VND to 2,000,000 VND.
- Regulations: Audiences need to keep order, turn off cell phones and noise-making devices, and do not film or take photos during the performance.
2.4. Vietnamese Women’s Museum
Established in 1987 and inaugurated in 1995. The museum preserves the culture and history of Vietnamese women.
Address: No. 36 Ly Thuong Kiet, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi.
Open time:
- The museum is open daily from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
- Closed on holidays according to state regulations.
Fare:
- Adult: 30,000 VND.(About 1.30 USD)
- Students (student card required): 10,000 VND. (About 0.43 USD)
- Children under 6 years old: Free.
2.5. Hoan Kiem Lake
Free things to do in Hanoi you cannot miss Hoan Kiem Lake. Legend has it that during the reign of Le Loi, the emperor received a magic sword from Than Kim Quy (Golden Turtle) to help him expel the invading Ming army. After the victory, a turtle appeared on the lake and asked the emperor to return the sword. To commemorate this event, people built Ngoc Son Temple on a small island in the middle of the lake.
Ticket price: Free
3. Visiting markets in Hanoi – Free things to do in Hanoi
Hanoi, a city famous for its culture, has many interesting and inexpensive activities. Below are some free activities you can participate in while in Hanoi.
3.1. Dong Xuan market
The market consists of three floors with many different stalls:
Ground floor: Where many types of fresh foods are sold such as vegetables, meat, seafood, and spices.
Upper floor: You will find handicraft products such as lacquerware, hand embroidery, ceramics and other souvenir items that you can buy as gifts.
Top floor: Although not the main strength of the market, you can also find some stalls selling electronic products and household appliances at cheap prices.
Note:
- Don’t hesitate to bargain to get the goods at the best price.
- Be careful with personal property, as the market area can be crowded, especially on weekends or holidays.
3.2. Hang Da Market
Hang Da Market is known for its more modern architecture than many other traditional markets in Hanoi. The market building was completely rebuilt in 2010, with a spacious and clean space, covered and arranged according to clear categories.
Note: The market is open every day from early morning until around 8pm, so arrange your time accordingly to be able to explore all the stalls.
3.3. Hang Bac Street
During the feudal period, Hang Bac Street was once a center of money production, where the best jewelers were gathered by the court to make money and precious objects.
Nowadays, at the silver street, in addition to visiting, you can find and buy silver products from personal jewelry such as: Rings, necklaces, earrings, bracelets to decorative items such as: Trays, cups, The bowl is exquisitely handcrafted.
3.4. Hang Gai Street
Hang Gai Street is one of the oldest and special streets of Hanoi’s Old Quarter. Located in the center of the capital, this street is famous for making and selling products from hemp and linen, hence the name Hang Gai, meaning “hemp street”.
Today, although there are not many shops that maintain this traditional profession, the street still retains its own identity with fabric and handicraft shops.
4. What to do at night in Hanoi?
When the sun goes down, Hanoi becomes vibrant with many entertainment activities. Below are some suggestions for you to explore and enjoy Hanoi’s nightlife.
4.1. Hoan Kiem Lake Walking Street
You will enjoy fresh air and watch street art performances. From street food to music and puppet shows, this area is always bustling and exciting
4.2. Dong Kinh Nghia Thuc Square
This is the center of nightlife in Hanoi, where many restaurants, cafes, and bars converge. This square is the ideal spot to enjoy delicious food, participate in cultural and entertainment activities, or simply sit back and observe urban life.
4.3. Thang Long Water Puppet Theater
Water puppetry is part of Vietnam’s cultural heritage and watching a performance at Thang Long Water Puppet Theater is a great way to understand more about this traditional art. The performances often tell Vietnamese folk tales through puppet characters controlled underwater.
Whether you are looking for cultural immersion, culinary enjoyment or simply a glimpse of Vietnam’s heritage and what to do in Hanoi is sure to exceed your expectations. . So, pack your bags today and get ready to create beautiful memories on this journey.
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Happy Travels!
