Vietnam National Museum of Fine Arts, Hanoi

Museum in Hanoi

Vietnam National Museum of Fine Arts
Vietnam National Museum of Fine Arts
Public Domain / Daaé

The Vietnam National Museum of Fine Arts is a cultural treasure in Hanoi, offering travellers a rich and varied introduction to Vietnam's artistic heritage. Located on Nguyen Thai Hoc Street, the museum presents an inspiring blend of ancient artefacts, religious sculpture, folk art, wartime paintings, and modern works that reflect the country's evolving identity. For art lovers, it is one of the best places to visit in Hanoi, combining history, aesthetics, and national pride under one roof.

Often visited on walking tours of Hanoi's Ba Dinh District, the museum provides a contemplative break from the city's busy streets, showcasing masterpieces that span thousands of years and highlight the resilience and creativity of the Vietnamese people.

History and Significance of the Vietnam National Museum of Fine Arts

The museum occupies a building originally constructed in 1937 as a Catholic girls' boarding school. In 1963, painter Nguyễn Đỗ Cung-one of Vietnam's most influential artists-identified the space as a suitable home for the nation's art collection. It was subsequently transformed into the Vietnam National Museum of Fine Arts, becoming the country's principal repository of artistic achievement.

The museum chronicles the full arc of Vietnamese art, from early religious sculpture and traditional crafts to revolutionary works of the 20th century and contemporary experimentation. Much of the mid-20th-century collection highlights themes of patriotism, resistance, and national unity-reflecting a period when art played a vital role in documenting and inspiring the country’s defence efforts.

Today, the museum remains a powerful symbol of Vietnam’s cultural heritage, curating artworks that reflect both collective memory and the emergence of modern individuality in late 20th and early 21st-century pieces.

Things to See and Do in the Vietnam National Museum of Fine Arts

The museum spans several floors and curated galleries, allowing visitors to move through Vietnam’s artistic timeline.

Ancient Sculpture and Folk Art
Highlights include Cham sandstone carvings, Buddhist wooden statues, and vibrant folk paintings from regions such as Dong Ho and Hang Trong. These works illustrate spiritual beliefs, festivals, and everyday life.

Wartime Art and Revolutionary Themes
Many galleries present paintings, sketches, and posters created during the wars against French and American forces. These artworks depict scenes of solidarity, sacrifice, and perseverance, blending realism with emotional intensity.

Modern and Contemporary Art
The upper floors feature explorations into abstraction and abstract impressionism, representing Vietnam’s gradual shift toward individual expression. These works provide an engaging contrast to the traditional and historical pieces below.

Textiles, Lacquerware, and Applied Arts
Traditional lacquer paintings and silk artworks demonstrate Vietnam’s mastery of textile arts and its signature lacquer techniques-respected worldwide.

With its diverse collection, the museum provides something for every traveller, from casual observers to serious art enthusiasts.

How to Get to the Vietnam National Museum of Fine Arts

The museum is located at 66 Nguyen Thai Hoc Street in Ba Dinh District, close to the Temple of Literature and several other major landmarks. Travellers arriving by air will land at Nội Bài International Airport, about 40 minutes away. For the best deals and a seamless booking experience, check out these flights to Hanoi on Booking.com.
Hanoi Railway Station is just a short distance from the museum, making it easily accessible by taxi or local bus. Train schedules and bookings can be found on Omio.
Reaching the museum by car is convenient, although roadside parking can be limited along the busy Nguyen Thai Hoc corridor.

Practical Tips on Visiting the Vietnam National Museum of Fine Arts

  • Suggested tips: Begin your visit on the ground floor and work your way up for a chronological experience.
  • Best time to visit: Weekday mornings for quieter galleries and cooler temperatures.
  • Entrance fee: Adults 40.000 VND
  • Opening hours: 8:30 - 17:00 everyday
  • Official website: https://vnfam.vn/
  • How long to spend: 60-90 minutes.
  • Accessibility: Most galleries are accessible; elevators available in main sections.
  • Facilities: Café, restrooms, gift shop with reproductions and books.
  • Photography tip: Look for natural light near windows illuminating lacquer and silk works.
  • Guided tours: Available upon request; helpful for interpreting wartime and religious pieces.
  • Nearby food options: Restaurants and cafés along Nguyen Thai Hoc and around the Temple of Literature.

Where to Stay close to the Vietnam National Museum of Fine Arts

Staying nearby makes it easy to explore Ba Dinh and the Temple of Literature area. A refined option is Pullman Hanoi. For a smaller boutique feel, consider Hanoi Le Jardin Hotel & Spa. Travellers who prefer staying close to the Old Quarter may enjoy La Sinfonía del Rey Hotel.

Is the Vietnam National Museum of Fine Arts Worth Visiting?

Yes, the museum is an enriching and insightful attraction, offering a chance to understand Vietnam's cultural development through its artistic expressions. Whether you enjoy ancient sculpture, folk traditions, or modern creativity, this spot is one of the best places to see in Hanoi for art lovers and curious travellers alike.

What Other Travellers Say...

Reviews Summary

4.5 (4,421)

Vietnam National Fine Arts Museum, at 66 P. Nguyễn Thái Học, Ba Đình, Hà Nội, occupies a three‑storey colonial building (two linked buildings) displaying Vietnamese art across many periods and media — from ceramics and traditional works to surprising modern pieces — spread over multiple floors and rooms that can take 2–3 hours to explore; visitors note an extensive, well‑curated collection with strong coverage of recent art, occasional musty, warm rooms due to limited air‑conditioning, some exhibits with sparse labels, and an on‑site cafe where you can grab a bite after your visit.

Michael DePetrillo
a week ago
"Nice selection of art and ceramics spa ing the last 2,500 years. There are two buildings, each with three floors of exhibits. It was interesting tosee how the art changed from the French colonial period, through the Vietnam War, and into modern times...."
Be o Saint Stephen
a month ago
"The Museum is a rabbit warren of rooms across several floors. Every space is interesting and full of excellent examples of the best of Vietnamese artover the centuries. The most modern period is well covered and this was a nice surprise. I spent nearly 2 hours there and was fully occupied. Afterwards, a got a hamburger from the on-site cafe. This was a good burger. I like burgers. 🍔..."
Anthony Bolton
2 months ago
"An informative museum with an extensive collection showcasing Vietnamese art through the ages. Card payments are accepted, which is convenient.However, the experience is somewhat diminished by the lack of air-conditioning and a musty smell throughout many rooms. While the exhibits are interesting, much of the art feels fairly traditional and basic with many pieces lacking descriptions. Worth visiting if you’re interested in Vietnamese culture, but be prepared for warm conditions inside...."

FAQs for Visiting the Vietnam National Museum of Fine Arts

Yes, most displays include English descriptions, though some may be brief.
Photography is usually permitted without flash, except in restricted sections.
Yes, children often enjoy the colourful folk art and large sculptures.

Nearby Attractions to the Vietnam National Museum of Fine Arts

The Vietnam National Museum of Fine Arts appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Hanoi!

Moira & Andy
Moira & Andy

Hey! We're Moira & Andy. From hiking the Camino to trips around Europe in Bert our campervan — we've been traveling together since retirement in 2020!

Read our full story here

This website uses affiliate links which may earn a commission at no additional cost to you!

Planning Your Visit

Hours:

8:30 – 17:00 everyday

Price:

Adults 40.000 VND

Address: Vietnam National Fine Arts Museum, Phố Nguyễn Thái Học, Điện Biên, Ba Đình, Hanoi, Vietnam
Hanoi: 1 km
Official Website

Nearby Attractions

Similar Blogs