Hanoi Post Office

Historic Building in Hanoi

Hanoi Post Office
Hanoi Post Office
CC BY-SA 4.0 / Nguyenmy2302

The Hanoi Post Office, often called the Bờ Hồ Post Office for its prime location opposite Hoan Kiem Lake, is a distinctive landmark that reflects more than a century of architectural evolution and communication history. Its trio of buildings-stretching along Đinh Tiên Hoàng, Lê Thạch, and Đinh Lễ streets-showcases an elegant mix of neoclassical and Art Deco styles, making it one of the must-see places in Hanoi for architecture lovers and history enthusiasts.

Serving as a crucial communication hub through the French colonial period, the Vietnam War, and the modern era, the Hanoi Post Office is a place often visited on walking tours of Hanoi's French Quarter. Visitors come not only for postal services, souvenirs, and photographs, but also to appreciate a structure that has witnessed the city's transformations over generations.

History and Significance of the Hanoi Post Office

Established in 1883, the Hanoi Post Office was strategically positioned near Hoan Kiem Lake to serve as a central node in the colonial communications network. The arrival of telegraph lines connecting Hanoi to Saigon by 1888 marked a major technological milestone, and the later introduction of an 800-line telephone switchboard further cemented its role in Vietnam's growing infrastructure.

The central building, completed in 1901, replaced part of the demolished Bảo An Pagoda. A second building was added in the early 1940s on Đinh Lễ Street, enhancing the architectural presence along the lakeside. Despite criticism and aesthetic debates over the decades-including controversies surrounding 1970s renovations-the complex remains an enduring symbol of Hanoi’s layered heritage.

During the Vietnam War, the post office earned a reputation as a “red address,” playing a strategic role as Viet Minh forces restructured communication systems for propaganda and coordination. Surviving wartime destruction and political shifts, it stands today as both a functional post office and a living historical monument.

Things to See and Do in the Hanoi Post Office

Visitors can admire the distinct architectural features of its three interconnected buildings. The neoclassical façade of the original post office, the Art Deco influence of the later structures, and the contrasting modernist elements of the 1970s reconstruction together form a fascinating architectural timeline.

Inside, the post office remains active, offering postal services, stamp collections, and souvenirs. Art lovers will appreciate the preserved columns, mouldings, and high ceilings typical of French colonial public architecture. Beyond its functional features, the post office offers excellent photo opportunities thanks to its lakeside location and unique urban setting.

Walk around the complex to see how its design mirrors the evolving architectural tastes of Hanoi-from colonial ornamentation to wartime practicality and modern reinterpretations.

How to Get to the Hanoi Post Office

The post office is centrally located along Đinh Tiên Hoàng Street, facing Hoan Kiem Lake. Travellers flying into Hanoi will arrive at Noi Bai International Airport, about 30 kilometres from the city centre. For the best deals and a seamless booking experience, check out these flights to Hanoi on Booking.com.
Hanoi Railway Station is a short distance away, providing convenient access for those arriving by train. Train schedules and bookings can be found on Omio.
Travelling by car or taxi is straightforward, with nearby drop-off points along the lake and surrounding streets, though traffic can be slow during peak hours.

Practical Tips on Visiting the Hanoi Post Office

  • Suggested tips: Explore all three buildings to appreciate the architectural differences across eras.
  • Best time to visit: Morning or early evening when the light enhances the façade facing Hoan Kiem Lake.
  • How long to spend: 20-30 minutes, longer if browsing stamps or taking photos.
  • Accessibility: Flat paths and accessible entrances make the site easy to visit.
  • Facilities: Postal counters, souvenir shops, seating areas, and nearby cafés.
  • Photography tip: Capture the building at an angle to include the lake and surrounding trees.
  • Guided tours: Some French Quarter walking tours include the post office as a historical stop.
  • Nearby food options: Numerous cafés and restaurants line the lake and the connecting streets.

Where to Stay close to the Hanoi Post Office

For a luxurious stay with colonial charm, consider Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi. A stylish option nearby is Hotel de l’Opera Hanoi. Travellers looking for a comfortable base close to major attractions may enjoy Hanoi Pearl Hotel.

Is the Hanoi Post Office Worth Visiting?

Yes, the Hanoi Post Office is well worth a visit. Its blend of architectural styles, historical importance, and prime lakeside location make it an appealing stop for photographers, history lovers, and travellers exploring Hanoi's French Quarter. It remains a symbol of the city's resilience and an enduring testament to the evolution of communication in Vietnam.

What Other Travellers Say...

Reviews Summary

3.5 (105)

Central Post office, 75 Đinh Tiên Hoàng, Tràng Tiền, Hoàn Kiếm, Hà Nội, is a busy, attractive postal landmark where visitors can buy stamps, postcards and souvenirs and even mail items on site; expect queues and variable service—some travelers praise helpful staff who sell stamps at the official counters in the back, while others report slow, unfriendly service and warn about people at the entrance selling stamps at inflated prices; note that the gate for sending mail is on Đinh Tiên Hoàng street and the office may be closed on Sundays according to local observations.

Macy Obrien
10 months ago
"Super busy, as expected, but such a gorgeous building. Love the idea that you can buy a postcard and send it there and then to a loved one or justback home. Lots of other souvenirs to buy there too. Lovely place to look around if you need something to do in Ho Chi Minh City...."
Baptiste Decq
2 months ago
"I bought stamps for letters to France. Two stamps by letter, payed 62k for 4 stamps. They are not very fast but after waiting for a while one ladysaw that I had letters and nicely sold me the stamps. BE CAREFUL : there is a lady at the entrance of the post office, selling stamps on the counter, but she does not work for the post station !!! Eventually she will scam you and sell you stamps at a higher price. Be sure to enter the office and go straight to the counters in the back and buy from ladies behind the counter that have access to the letters etc. I don’t understand why they let her do that inside the post office !! 🫤..."
A a Meier
2 months ago
"So there is a guy at the entrance selling you stamps to europe at a random price (310k for 9 stamps which still confuses me) but in the back at theofficial counter they are 33k which is pretty much the same but the people there seem more trustful. Idk weird experience, but open on a sunday:)..."

FAQs for Visiting the Hanoi Post Office

Most areas are accessible, though some administrative sections may be restricted.
Yes, it continues to operate, offering full postal services and souvenirs.
Yes, photography is generally allowed, especially in public service areas.

Nearby Attractions to the Hanoi Post Office

The Hanoi Post Office appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Hanoi!

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Moira & Andy

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Planning Your Visit

Address: Hanoi Post Office, Phố Đinh Tiên Hoàng, French Quarter, Trang Tien, Hoàn Kiếm, Hanoi, Vietnam
Hanoi: 2 km

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