Hanoi: The Complete Guide

Hanoi

Founded over 1000 years ago, Vietnam’s capital city, Hanoi, is steeped in history, with the streets of its winding Old Quarter dating back to the 14th century. Strolling through these tree-lined lanes and past weathered colonial facades feels like stepping back in time. Yet, modern-day Hanoi is far more than its historical roots. The ancient city is alive with modern cafes, world-class restaurants, and vibrant art galleries. As night falls, the city offers a variety of nightlife options, from sophisticated rooftop bars to lively bia hơi joints. For first-time visitors, these experiences are a must. From ancient temples to bustling markets, Hanoi is the cultural heartbeat of Vietnam, offering a blend of the old and the new.

History of Hanoi

Early History of Hanoi

Hanoi’s history dates back over 1000 years. Originally known as Thang Long, meaning “Ascending Dragon,” it was founded in 1010 by Emperor Ly Thai To of the Ly Dynasty. The city quickly became the political and cultural center of Vietnam.

Hanoi Under the Le Dynasty

During the Le Dynasty, Hanoi continued to flourish. It was during this period that many of the city’s iconic temples and pagodas were constructed, contributing to its rich architectural heritage.

Hanoi During the French Colonial Period

In the late 19th century, Hanoi fell under French colonial rule. The French significantly influenced the city’s architecture, infrastructure, and culture, evident in the grand colonial buildings and tree-lined boulevards that still exist today.

Hanoi in the 20th Century

The 20th century was a tumultuous time for Hanoi. It was the center of revolutionary activities against French rule, leading to the establishment of the Democratic Republic of Vietnam in 1945 by Ho Chi Minh. The city endured significant hardship during the Vietnam War but emerged as the capital of reunified Vietnam in 1976.

Modern Hanoi

In recent decades, Hanoi has experienced rapid development and modernization. The city has managed to preserve its historical charm while embracing economic growth and cultural evolution. Today, Hanoi is a vibrant metropolis that serves as the political, cultural, and economic heart of Vietnam.

Visiting Hanoi for the first time and wondering what are the top places to see in the city? In this complete guide, I share the best things to do in Hanoi on the first visit. To help you plan your trip, I have also included an interactive map and practical tips for visiting!

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35 Best places to See in Hanoi

This complete guide to Hanoi not only tells you about the very best sights and tourist attractions for first-time visitors to the city but also provide insights into a few of our personal favorite things to do.

This is a practical guide to visiting the best places to see in Hanoi and is filled with tips and info that should answer all your questions!

Temple of Literature

Temple Of Literature, Hanoi
CC BY-SA 2.0 / thalling55
Located to the south of the Imperial Citadel of Thang Long, the Temple of Literature was founded in 1070, nearly 1000 years ago, by Emperor Ly Thanh Tong as a temple dedicated to the Chinese philosopher Confucius. About the Temple of Literature The Temple of Literature, one of Hanoi’s most significant monuments, was expanded in […]
Location: Temple Of Literature, Phố Quốc Tử Giám, Văn Miếu, Đống Đa, Hanoi, Vietnam | Hours: In summer ( From April to October) : 07:30-17:30 In winter (From October to April) : 08:00-17:00 | Price: Adults: 30,000 VND (~US$ 1.3) | Distance: 0.2km
Visiting Temple of Literature

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Vietnam National Museum of Fine Arts

Vietnam National Museum Of Fine Arts
Public Domain / Daaé
The Vietnam National Museum of Fine Arts is located in Hanoi, Vietnam. It serves as the country’s primary art museum, with the smaller Ho Chi Minh City Museum of Fine Arts being the second. The museum showcases Vietnam’s fine arts spanning from ancient times to the modern era. Much of the 20th-century art displayed in […]
Location: Vietnam National Fine Arts Museum, Phố Nguyễn Thái Học, Điện Biên, Ba Đình, Hanoi, Vietnam | Hours: 8:30 - 17:00 everyday | Price: Adults 40.000 VND | Website | Distance: 0.5km
Visiting Vietnam National Museum of Fine Arts

Explore Hanoi yourself with our self-guided walking tour!

Vietnam Military History Museum

Vietnam Military History Museum
Public Domain / Сергей Белый
The Vietnam Military History Museum, established on 17 July 1956, is one of Vietnam’s seven national museums. Covering an area of 12,800 square meters, it is centrally located in Hanoi, opposite Lenin Park and near the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum. The Flag Tower of Hanoi is also situated within the museum grounds. Layout The museum […]
Location: Vietnam Military History Museum, Điện Biên Phủ, Điện Biên, Ba Đình, Hanoi, Vietnam | Distance: 0.8km
Visiting Vietnam Military History Museum

Explore Hanoi yourself with our self-guided walking tour!

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Ho Chi Minh Museum

Ho Chi Minh Museum - Hanoi - Vietnam
CC BY-SA 3.0 / Adam Jones Adam63
The Ho Chi Minh Museum, located in Hanoi, Vietnam, was constructed in the 1990s to honor the life of the late Vietnamese leader Ho Chi Minh and to document Vietnam’s revolutionary struggle against foreign powers. Situated within the Ho Chi Minh complex, the museum features eight chronological exhibitions detailing Ho Chi Minh’s life and legacy. […]
Location: Ho Chi Minh Museum, Phố Ngọc Hà, Đội Cấn, Ba Đình, Hanoi, Vietnam | Hours: 8 am to 11:30 am Daily (closed on Mondays and Fridays) | Price: 40,000 VND/person | Distance: 0.9km
Visiting Ho Chi Minh Museum

One Pillar Pagoda

One-pillar-pagoda
One Pillar Pagoda, also known as Dien Huu Pagoda or Lien Hoa Dai, was built in 1049 by Ly Thai Tong (1028-1054), a king of the Ly dynasty. Its name translates to “long happiness and prosperity.” In Vietnamese, the One Pillar Pagoda is called Nhat Tru Thap. History of One Pillar Pagoda According to legend, […]
Location: One Pillar Pagoda, Phố Chùa Một Cột, Đội Cấn, Ba Đình, Hanoi, Vietnam | Hours: 08:00 - 17:00 (every day) | Price: Free | Distance: 0.9km
Visiting One Pillar Pagoda
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Ba Dinh Square

Hanoi, Vietnam, Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum On Ba Dinh Square
CC BY-SA 4.0 / Vyacheslav Argenberg
Ba Đình Square (Vietnamese: Quảng trường Ba Đình) is a historic square in Hanoi where President Ho Chi Minh proclaimed the independence of the Democratic Republic of Vietnam on September 2, 1945. The square is named after the Ba Đình Uprising, an anti-French rebellion that took place in Vietnam from 1886 to 1887 as part […]
Location: Quảng trường Ba Đình, Hùng Vương, Điện Biên, Ba Đình, Hanoi, Vietnam | Distance: 1.0km
Visiting Ba Dinh Square

Ho Chi Minh’s Mausoleum

Ho-chi-minh-mausoleum
Ho Chi Minh’s Mausoleum has long been considered a must-visit destination for first-time travelers to Hanoi due to its immense historical significance. Many visitors make a pilgrimage to pay their respects to Ho Chi Minh (Uncle Ho – President Ho), the revered leader who guided Vietnam to independence. At the mausoleum, visitors can learn about […]
Location: Ho Chi Minh's Mausoleum, Hùng Vương, Điện Biên, Ba Đình, Hanoi, Vietnam | Hours: Morning: from 08:00 to 12:00 Afternoon: from 14:00 to 16:30 Closed Monday & Friday | Price: 25.000 VND (~$1) | Distance: 1.0km
Visiting Ho Chi Minh’s Mausoleum
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Imperial Citadel of Thang Long

Thăng Long Imperial Citadel
CC BY-SA 2.0 / Isabell Schulz
The origins of the Citadel date back to the 7th century when its first foundations were established. At that time, Vietnam was under Chinese occupation, and a Chinese fortress was built in the area. In 1010, King Ly Thai To moved the capital from Hoa Lu (Ninh Binh) to Dai La (the former name of […]
Location: Imperial Citadel of Thang Long, Hoàng Diệu, Quán Thánh, Ba Đình, Hanoi, Vietnam | Distance: 1.0km
Visiting Imperial Citadel of Thang Long

The Train Street

Vietnam-train Street
Ngõ 224 Lê Duẩn, famously known as “The Train Street,” is located within Hanoi’s Old Quarter. This narrow alley sees a train speeding through twice a day, passing perilously close to the surrounding buildings. Constructed by the French in 1902, this railway line remains operational. The train passes through at 3 pm and 7 pm […]
Location: Train Street, Phố Trần Phú, Hoàn Kiếm, Hanoi, Vietnam | Hours: The train times for Train Street Hanoi is as follows: Monday to Friday: 7.00pm, 7.45pm, 8.30pm, 9.30pm 10.00pm Saturday and Sunday: 8.30am, 9.30am, 11.30am, 3.30pm, 5.30pm, 6.00pm, 7.00pm, 7.45pm, 8.30pm, 9.00pm, 11.00pm | Distance: 1.1km
Visiting The Train Street
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Ho Chi Minh's Stilt House

Ho Chi Minhs Stilt House
CC BY-SA 3.0 / Grossbildjaeger
Ho Chi Minh’s Stilt House, located within the Presidential Palace complex in Hanoi, is a significant historical site that offers a glimpse into the simple yet impactful life of Vietnam’s revered leader, Ho Chi Minh. This humble abode, where Ho Chi Minh lived from 1958 until his death in 1969, reflects his modest lifestyle and […]
Location: Ho Chi Minh’s Stilt House, Đường Hoàng Hoa Thám, Ngọc Hà, Ba Đình, Hanoi, Vietnam | Hours: It is open every day except on Monday and Friday, from 7.30 am to 11 am and 1 pm to 4 pm.| Price: 25,000 VND. | Distance: 1.2km
Visiting Ho Chi Minh's Stilt House

Quán Sứ Pagoda

Pagode Quán Sứ
CC BY-SA 4.0 / Guerinf
Quán Sứ Pagoda is a prominent Buddhist temple located on Quan Su Street in Hanoi, Vietnam. It serves as the headquarters of the Buddhist Sangha of Vietnam. Quán Sứ Pagoda was constructed in the 15th century during the Lê dynasty. Initially, there were no Buddhist structures on the site, only cottages used for worship. According […]
Location: Quan Su Pagoda, Phố Quán Sứ, Tran Hung Dao, Hoàn Kiếm, Hanoi, Vietnam | Hours: Daily: 7:00 AM – 6:00 PM | Distance: 1.2km
Visiting Quán Sứ Pagoda

Presidential Palace of Vietnam

Presidential Palace Of Vietnam
CC BY-SA 2.0 / xiquinhosilva
The Presidential Palace of Vietnam, situated in Hanoi, serves as the official residence of the president of Vietnam. Prior to 1954, it was known as the Palace of the Governor-General of Indochina. The palace was constructed between 1900 and 1906 to accommodate the French governor-general of Indochina. Designed by architect Charles Lichtenfelder, the structure showcases […]
Location: Presidential Palace, Hùng Vương, Ngọc Hà, Ba Đình, Hanoi, Vietnam | Distance: 1.3km
Visiting Presidential Palace of Vietnam

Hoa Lo Prison

Hanoi Hilton
CC BY-SA 2.0 / rhjpage
The Hoa Lo Prison in Hanoi, sarcastically nicknamed the “Hanoi Hilton” by American POWs during the Vietnam War, is a large prison complex originally built by the French in the style of the Maison Centrales, a term used for prisons in France. Initially, it served as a prison, detention, and torture center for revolutionaries fighting […]
Location: Hoa Lo Prison Relic, Phố Hoả Lò, Tran Hung Dao, Hoàn Kiếm, Hanoi, Vietnam | Hours: Daily 08:00 until 17:00 | Price: 30,000vnd (~$1.5) | Distance: 1.3km
Visiting Hoa Lo Prison
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Hang Bong Street

PhoHangBong
Public Domain / Newone (talk)
Hàng Bông (French: Rue du Coton) is an ancient street extending approximately 932 meters from the intersection of Hàng Bông – Hàng Gai – Hàng Trống – Hàng Hòm to the former city gate, Cửa Nam (South Gate). Historically home to cotton dealers and makers of clothes and winter blankets, today’s Hàng Bông is one […]
Location: Hang Bong, Old Quarter, Hang Gai, Hoàn Kiếm, Hanoi, Vietnam | Distance: 1.4km
Visiting Hang Bong Street

St. Joseph Cathedral

St. Joseph Cathedral Hà Nội, Vietnam
CC BY-SA 3.0 / trungydang
Saint Joseph’s Cathedral in Hanoi serves as the seat of the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Hanoi and is the oldest church in the city, constructed in 1886 during the French colonial era. Locally known as the “Big Church,” it is located on Nha Chung Street, near Ho Hoan Kiem, also known as the Lake of […]
Location: St. Joseph Cathedral, Phố Nhà Chung, Hang Trong, Hoàn Kiếm, Hanoi, Vietnam | Distance: 1.5km
Visiting St. Joseph Cathedral
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Hàng Gai (Silk Street)

Hanoi - Hàng Gai
CC BY-SA 2.0 / Benjamin Smith
Set on the edge of Hanoi’s Old Quarter near Hoan Kiem Lake, Hang Gai, also known as Silk Street, is one of the capital’s busiest commercial hubs, specializing in silk. This 300-meter-long street is lined with over a hundred stores that trade in silk and related products. Many local fashion boutiques and tailor shops have […]
Location: Phố Hàng Gai, Hang Gai, Hoàn Kiếm, Hanoi, Vietnam | Distance: 1.8km
Visiting Hàng Gai (Silk Street)

Ngoc Son Temple (The Temple of the Jade Mountain)

Temple Of The Jade Mountain, Hanoi, Vietnam
CC BY-SA 4.0 / Jakub Hałun
If you’re looking for a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of Hanoi, Hoan Kiem Lake is the perfect destination. In the center of this serene lake sits Ngoc Son Temple, a prominent historical site on a small island. The temple, dating back to the 17th century, was once part of the Hoan Kiem […]
Location: Ngoc Son Temple, Phố Đinh Tiên Hoàng, Ly Thai To, Hoàn Kiếm, Hanoi, Vietnam | Hours: Open 8-6pm daily | Price: Free | Distance: 1.9km
Visiting Ngoc Son Temple (The Temple of the Jade Mountain)

Dong Xuan Market

Dong Xuan Market
CC BY-SA 4.0 / NKSTTSSHNVN
Dong Xuan Market is a historic and bustling market located in the Hoàn Kiếm district of Hanoi. Established by the French administration in 1889, the market has undergone several renovations, the most significant of which occurred in 1994 following a devastating fire. Today, it is the largest covered market in Hanoi, offering a wide array […]
Location: Dong Xuan Market, Old Quarter, Dong Xuan, Hoàn Kiếm, Hanoi, Vietnam | Hours: Open 7-6pm Mon-Thur; 7-12noon (sometimes later) Fri-Sun. | Distance: 1.9km
Visiting Dong Xuan Market

Hoàn Kiếm Lake

Turtle-tower-hanoi
Hoàn Kiếm Lake holds a storied place at the heart of Hanoi. Also known as Sword Lake, this 12-hectare freshwater lake is a central feature of the city’s public and historical life. Located in Hanoi’s historical center, the lake is not only a major scenic spot but also a focal point for the city’s public […]
Location: Hoàn Kiếm Lake, Hang Trong, Hoàn Kiếm, Hanoi, Vietnam | Distance: 1.9km
Visiting Hoàn Kiếm Lake
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Museum of Vietnamese Women

Vietnamese Womens Museum Building
CC BY-SA 3.0 / Aumusee
The Museum of Vietnamese Women, nestled in a leafy courtyard on Ly Thuong Kiet Street in Hanoi, is one of the few museums worldwide dedicated exclusively to the lives and achievements of women. This museum honors the sacrifices and contributions of women to Vietnamese society and the nation. The concept of establishing a museum dedicated […]
Location: Vietnamese Women's Museum, Phố Lý Thường Kiệt, Hàng Bài, Hoàn Kiếm, Hanoi, Vietnam | Hours: 08:00 – 17:00 Monday to Sunday. | Price: 40,000 VND/adult | Website | Distance: 1.9km
Visiting Museum of Vietnamese Women

Hanoi Post Office

Hanoi Post Office
CC BY-SA 4.0 / Nguyenmy2302
The Hanoi Post Office, also known as the Bo Ho Post Office, opposite the picturesque Hoan Kiem Lake, stands as a testament to the city’s rich history and architectural heritage. The Hanoi Post Office comprises three distinct buildings located on Dinh Tien Hoang, Le Thach, and Dinh Le streets, each showcasing a blend of neoclassical […]
Location: Hanoi Post Office, Phố Đinh Tiên Hoàng, French Quarter, Trang Tien, Hoàn Kiếm, Hanoi, Vietnam | Distance: 2.0km
Visiting Hanoi Post Office

Hoa Phong Tower

Tháp Hòa Phong
CC BY-SA 4.0 / The Hanoian
Hoa Phong Tower stands as a testament to Hanoi’s rich historical tapestry, offering visitors a glimpse into the city’s past. It is also a popular spot for both locals and tourists to take photos, especially while wearing traditional Vietnamese clothes like ao dai. The tower is easily visible as you walk around Hoan Kiem Lake. […]
Location: Hoa Phong Tower, Phố Đinh Tiên Hoàng, French Quarter, Trang Tien, Hoàn Kiếm, Hanoi, Vietnam | Distance: 2.0km
Visiting Hoa Phong Tower

Den Ba Kieu Temple

Den Ba Kieu
CC BY-SA 3.0 / Codobai
Ba Kieu Temple, officially known as Thien Tien (Heavenly Fairy) Pavilion, is situated on the east side of Sword Lake, facing Ngoc Son Temple in Hanoi. It is a rare relic in Hanoi and Vietnam dedicated to the worship of the Mother Goddess. The temple honors Mother Goddess Lieu Hanh and her two maidens, Princesses […]
Location: Đền Bà Kiệu, Phố Đinh Tiên Hoàng, French Quarter, Ly Thai To, Hoàn Kiếm, Hanoi, Vietnam | Hours: Open daily 08:30am – 04:30pm, midday break 11:30am-01:30pm. | Distance: 2.0km
Visiting Den Ba Kieu Temple

Bach Ma Temple, Hanoi

Bac Ma Temple – There’s The White Horse
CC BY-SA 2.0 / Greg Willis
Located in the heart of Hanoi Old Quarter, Bach Ma Temple is a significant historical monument linked to King Ly Thai To’s capital relocation. It is one of the Four Guarding Temples of Thang Long Citadel, established to form a protective boundary around the city and defend against potential threats. I. History of Bach Ma […]
Location: Bach Ma Temple, Phố Hàng Buồm, Old Quarter, Hàng Buồm, Hoàn Kiếm, Hanoi, Vietnam | Hours: 8:00 AM - 11:00 AM and 2:00 PM - 8:00 PM every day | Price: Free | Distance: 2.0km
Visiting Bach Ma Temple, Hanoi

Thang Long Water Puppet Theater

Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre
CC BY-SA 3.0 / Gryffindor
The Thang Long Water Puppet Theater in Hanoi is dedicated to preserving the ancient Vietnamese art form of water puppetry, known as Mua Roi Nuoc, which originated in the Red River Delta of North Vietnam. Historically performed in shallow, flooded paddy fields and ponds, water puppetry is a significant cultural event in Vietnam, with theater […]
Location: Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre, Phố Đinh Tiên Hoàng, Ly Thai To, Hoàn Kiếm, Hà Nội, Vietnam | Website | Distance: 2.0km
Visiting Thang Long Water Puppet Theater
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Trang Tien Plaza

Trang Tien Plaza
CC BY-SA 2.0 / blue_quartz
Trang Tien Plaza is a prominent shopping center located in the Hoan Kiem district of Hanoi. Situated on the former site of the Hanoi General Department Store, near the Hanoi Post Office, it offers a scenic view of Hoan Kiem Lake. Not only is Trang Tien Plaza one of the city’s largest and most upscale […]
Location: Trang Tien Plaza, Phố Hai Bà Trưng, Trang Tien, Hoàn Kiếm, Hanoi, Vietnam | Distance: 2.0km
Visiting Trang Tien Plaza

Ly Thai To Statue & Park

Ly Thai To Statue & Park
CC BY-SA 4.0 / The Hanoian
The small park, located across from the famous Hoan Kiem Lake in the heart of Hanoi, is a charming and significant spot. It serves not only as a park but also as a memorial to Ly Thai To, the first king of the Ly dynasty, who relocated his seat of power to Hanoi, transforming it […]
Location: Ly Thai To Monument Hall, Phố Lê Lai, French Quarter, Trang Tien, Hoàn Kiếm, Hanoi, Vietnam | Distance: 2.1km
Visiting Ly Thai To Statue & Park
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Hanoi Ancient House

Heritage House In Hanoi
CC BY-SA 4.0 / Christophe95
The architecture at 87 Ma May is one of 14 traditional houses in Hanoi’s Old Quarter. Known locally as Ma May Ancient House or Hanoi Ancient House, it was built in the 19th century for both residential and business purposes. Over the years, the house has had many owners, but thanks to the efforts of […]
Location: Old House, Phố Mã Mây, Old Quarter, Hàng Buồm, Hoàn Kiếm, Hanoi, Vietnam | Hours: 8:30AM - 4:30PM | Price: Small fee | Distance: 2.1km
Visiting Hanoi Ancient House

Old East Gate (Ô Quan Chưởng), Hanoi

Old East Gate, Hanoi
CC BY-SA 2.0 / Richard Mortel
The only surviving gate of the citadel of Thang Long, O Quan Chuong, not only showcases architectural beauty but also represents Hanoi’s ancient history. According to records, during the reign of King Le Thai Tong (1740-1786), Thang Long had many gates such as Cau Giay, Cho Dua, Cau Dien, and Quan Chuong. Each city gate […]
Location: Old East Gate, Phố Hàng Chiếu, Old Quarter, Dong Xuan, Hoàn Kiếm, Hanoi, Vietnam | Hours: 24 Hours | Price: Free | Distance: 2.1km
Visiting Old East Gate (Ô Quan Chưởng), Hanoi

Tran Quoc Pagoda

Tran Quoc Pagoda
Tran Quoc Pagoda, over 1500 years old, plays a significant role in the history of Vietnam and Hanoi. This ancient temple attracts thousands of visitors annually due to its historical importance and cultural significance. History of Tran Quoc Pagoda Constructed between 541 and 545 under King Ly Nam De, Tran Quoc Pagoda was initially called […]
Location: Tran Quoc Pagoda, Đường Thanh Niên, Yên Phụ, Tây Hồ, Hanoi, Vietnam | Hours: 8 am to 4 pm every day | Price: Free | Distance: 2.2km
Visiting Tran Quoc Pagoda

State Guest House, Hanoi

State Guest House
CC BY-SA 4.0 / The Hanoian
The State Guest House is a historical monument located in the Hoàn Kiếm District of Hanoi, Vietnam. Currently, it serves as a state guest house. This building exemplifies French Colonial architecture in French Indochina. Originally, it was the Residential Palace of the Tonkin Governor, constructed between 1918 and 1919 to accommodate the French Governor of […]
Location: Government Guest House (Tonkin Palace), Phố Ngô Quyền, French Quarter, Trang Tien, Hoàn Kiếm, Hanoi, Vietnam | Distance: 2.2km
Visiting State Guest House, Hanoi

Hanoi Opera House

Hanoi Opera House
CC BY-SA 4.0 / Hieucd
The Hanoi Opera House, built in 1911 by the French colonial rulers, was designed to resemble the old opera house in Paris, Palais Garnier. On August 16, 1945, the Viet Minh declared their takeover of the city from the building’s balcony. Constructed over a drained pond, the opera house was designed by architects Harley and […]
Location: Hanoi Opera House, Tràng Tiền, Trang Tien, Hoàn Kiếm, Hanoi, Vietnam | Website | Distance: 2.5km
Visiting Hanoi Opera House
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Vietnam National Museum of History

Vietnam National Museum Of History, Hanoi, Vietnam
Public Domain / Alistair Morrenger
The Vietnam National Museum of History (Vietnamese: Viện Bảo tàng Lịch sử Việt Nam) is located in the Hoan Kiem district of Hanoi, Vietnam. Originally built in 1910 as an archaeological research institution by the French School of the Far East (École Française d’Extrême-Orient EFEO) during French colonial rule, the building underwent significant renovations in […]
Location: Museo Nacional de Historia vietnamita, Tràng Tiền, Phan Chu Trinh, Hoàn Kiếm, Hanoi, Vietnam | Hours: Morning: 8:00 to 12:00 Afternoon: 1:30 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. | Price: Adults: 40,000 VND/turn/person | Website | Distance: 2.7km
Visiting Vietnam National Museum of History

Co Loa Citadel

Den Tho An Duong Vuong Tai Co Loa
CC BY-SA 1.0 / VuThiAnh
Co Loa Citadel or Thành Cổ Loa is an essential fortified settlement and archaeological site located in Hanoi’s Đông Anh district, approximately 17 kilometers north of the city center. The site is historically significant for its association with the Bronze Age Phùng Nguyên and Đông Sơn cultures and its role as the capital of the […]
Location: Thành Cổ Loa, Thôn Chùa, Cổ Loa, Đông Anh, Hanoi, Vietnam | Distance: 10.2km
Visiting Co Loa Citadel
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Perfume Pagoda (Huong Pagoda)

Perfume Pagoda
CC BY-SA 4.0 / Bùi Thụy Đào Nguyên
To the southwest (60km) of Hanoi, steep-sided limestone hills emerge from the paddy fields. The easternmost of these forested spurs, known as Nui Huong Tich (the “Mountain of the Perfumed Traces”), houses northern Vietnam’s most renowned pilgrimage site, the Perfume Pagoda (Chua Huong), named after the spring blossoms that fragrance the air. The Perfume Pagoda […]
Location: Huong Pagoda, Hương Sơn, Mỹ Đức, Hanoi, Vietnam | Price: 120,000 VND | Distance: 46.4km
Visiting Perfume Pagoda (Huong Pagoda)
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Best Time to Visit Hanoi

Visiting Hanoi in Spring

Spring, from March to April, is one of the best times to visit Hanoi. The weather is mild and pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F). This season is ideal for exploring the city’s parks, gardens, and historical sites as they come to life with blooming flowers.

Visiting Hanoi in Summer

Summer, from May to August, brings hot and humid weather to Hanoi, with temperatures often exceeding 30°C (86°F). While it can be quite warm, this season is perfect for experiencing the vibrant street life, enjoying cool drinks at rooftop bars, and participating in local festivals.

Visiting Hanoi in Autumn

Autumn, from September to November, is arguably the best time to visit Hanoi. The weather is cooler and more comfortable, with temperatures ranging from 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F). The city is particularly beautiful during this time, with clear skies and the scent of milk flowers in the air, making it ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities.

Visiting Hanoi in Winter

Winter, from December to February, is the coolest season in Hanoi, with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 20°C (50°F to 68°F). While it can be chilly, this is a great time to experience Hanoi’s cultural attractions, enjoy warm Vietnamese cuisine, and explore the city without the large crowds of the peak tourist season.

Average Temperatures in Hanoi

  • January 23°C 6
  • February 29°C 4
  • March 29°C 6
  • April 35°C 13
  • May 36°C 28
  • June 36°C 29
  • July 36°C 31
  • August 34°C 42
  • September 32°C 31
  • October 31°C 21
  • November 29°C 6
  • December 24°C 4

How to get to Hanoi

Traveling to Hanoi by Air

You can travel to Hanoi by flying into Noi Bai International Airport, located about 45 kilometers north of the city center. The airport serves both domestic and international flights. Upon arrival, you can take a taxi, shuttle bus, or private transfer to reach the city.

Traveling to Hanoi by Train

Hanoi is accessible by train, with the main station being Hanoi Railway Station. Trains from major cities like Ho Chi Minh City, Hue, and Da Nang offer comfortable and scenic journeys. The station is centrally located, making it convenient for travelers to reach various parts of the city.

Traveling to Hanoi by Bus

Several bus companies operate services to Hanoi from various cities across Vietnam. The main bus station, My Dinh Bus Station, is well-connected to local transportation. Buses are a cost-effective and flexible option for reaching Hanoi.

Traveling to Hanoi by Car

Driving to Hanoi is an option for those who prefer flexibility and comfort. The city is well-connected by highways, with the National Highway 1A being a major route. The journey offers scenic views of Vietnam’s countryside and provides the convenience of traveling at your own pace.

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