Best Things to do in Ha Noi

The best things to do in Hanoi often showcase the  vibrant history and culture of Vietnam's capital city, and you'll never run out of ideas for things to do in Hanoi. It's where the ancient Vietnamese culture, proudly preserved, is felt most strongly by visitors, and where traditions are wrestled in different parts of the city. 

Hanoi is more than 1,000 years old to her, so the rich history here is overwhelming. Temples, ancient imperial citadel, unique theaters and stunning wilderness just outside the city all make for a fun day out in Vietnam's capital. Visit as many of these Hanoi attractions that offer entertainment, beauty and education in different ways. Enjoy our top picks of things to do in Hanoi below. What are the best things to do in Hanoi?

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Imperial Citadel of Thang Long

A fascinating relic of Vietnam's history, the Imperial Citadel of Thang Long has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its historical and cultural significance. The 40-meter-high central flag tower is the most prominent feature of the Imperial Citadel and is often used as a symbol of Hanoi. 

This place was the heart of ancient Hanoi and served as the political center for eight centuries.  Ba Dinh's Thang Long Imperial Citadel  is in close proximity to many of Hanoi's other  top attractions.

• Location: Quan Thanh, Ba Dinh, Hanoi, Vietnam
• Hotline: +84 (0)243 734 5427

Water Puppet Theatre

Hanoi Water Puppet Theater celebrates and preserves the ancient art  of  water puppet theater in Vietnam. Water puppetry itself has a long association with Hanoi, and there are several theaters where guests can enjoy a uniquely Vietnamese take on Asian puppetry traditions. 

 

The original, and widely known, best theater in town is the Thang Long Puppet Theater. Controlled by a troupe of puppeteers hidden behind a screen, the puppets gracefully dance and glide across a fluid stage. Most shows also feature the famous restored sword legend of King Le, telling the story of Hoan Kiem Lake and  giant tortoises.

• Location: 57B, Dinh Tien Hoang Street, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi, Vietnam
• Hotline: +84 (0)243 824 9494

Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum

A humble landmark in Hanoi, the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum pays tribute to a man who left an indelible mark on Vietnam's history. Ho Chi Minh City is revered in Hanoi as the country's top leader. Known as "Uncle Ho" by locals, his  body is now buried in a glass case in Hanoi's Ba Dinh district. 

 

A mausoleum is more than just a  tourist attraction. It is a piece of living history and a visit here will be remembered for a long time. The building is modeled after Lenin's Mausoleum in Moscow.

• Location: 8 Hung Vuong, Dien Bien, Ba Dinh, Hanoi, Vietnam
• Opening hours: Saturday and Monday–Thursday from 8 am to 11.30 am (closed on Fridays and Sundays)

The Perfume Pagoda

The Perfume Pagoda is a dramatic temple complex in Hanoi believed to have been first built in the 15th century. This series of Buddhist temples is built into a mountain range in a labyrinth of rock-cut alleys, surrounded by lush forests and flowing streams. 

 

The temple is located about 60 km south of Hanoi in the Son Mountains and a drive here is an experience in itself. First,  by car or bus he has to make a two-hour journey before taking a boat to the foot of the mountain.

• Location: Huong Son, My Duc, Hanoi, Vietnam

Hoan Kiem Lake and Ngoc Son

Hoan Kiem Lake (Turtle Lake) is a central feature of Hanoi and  a popular  spot for locals and tourists throughout the day. Located on a small island in the middle of the lake, the Ngoc Mountain Temple is connected by a bridge, making it a perfect backdrop for  photos. 

 

At sunrise and sunset, the area is especially busy with joggers, couples  relaxing with lake views, and  elderly people practicing tai chi and line dancing.  Hoan Kiem Lake is free, but there is a charge for Ngoc Mountain Temple. The temple is located on a small island in the middle of the lake.

• Location: Hanoi Old Quarter, Dinh Tien Hoang, Hang Trong, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi, Vietnam
• Opening hours: Daily from 8 am to 6 pm

Dong Xuan Market

Dong Xuan Market is the largest market in Hanoi. Housed in a four-story Soviet-style building, this sprawling complex offers an extensive collection of fashion, clothing, souvenirs and more at some of the best prices in town. 

 

Even if you're not into printed t-shirts and cheap sunglasses, it's fascinating to watch the local merchants come and go.

• Location: Dong Xuan Street, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi, Vietnam
• Opening hours: Daily from 6 am to 7 pm

Hanoi Old Quarter

Hanoi's Old Quarter is a charming area of ​​the city where visitors can admire many fine examples of colonial architecture in its narrow streets. It meanders around stalls selling fruit and souvenirs, and narrow shophouses sell delicious Vietnamese dishes at a fraction of the price. 

 

The Old Quarter brings to life what many  imagine Hanoi to be, and exploring this area on foot is highly recommended for all visitors to Vietnam's capital.

Location: Hanoi Old Quarter, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi, Vietnam

Ba Vi National Park

Ba Vi National Park is a breathtaking wildlife sanctuary located about 2 hours (48 km) from downtown Hanoi. Famous for its three-jawed peaks that soar into the sky and are often shrouded in clouds, Ba Vi National Park offers dramatic scenery and  diverse  jungle flora and fauna. 

 

At the top of the highest mountain is his 11th-century temple, which offers sweeping views of the surrounding countryside. There is a natural hot spring on the forest floor. The national park is located about 58 km west of Hanoi.

• Location: Van Hoa, Ba Vi, Hanoi, Vietnam

Hanoi Opera House

Located in the heart of the French Quarter, the Hanoi Opera House is undoubtedly one of Hanoi's most elegant buildings. Built in 1911, this historic building is modeled after the Paris Opera House. Ivory columns, ornate balustrades and Gothic domes ooze Parisian charm. 

 

Enjoy classic performances at the Opera House, from Vietnamese opera and dance performances to skits and music concerts by world-famous artists.

• Location: 1 Trang Tien, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi, Vietnam
• Hotline: +84 (0)43 933 0113

Temple of Literature

The Temple of Literature is a fascinating temple complex in the heart of Hanoi. The impressive temple was originally built as a  learning center dedicated to the Chinese sage and scholar, Confucius. The whole place is steeped in Vietnamese history. 

 

During his next 1,000 years,  more buildings were added and decorated. This vast area is now filled with ornate pavilions, shrines and lush gardens. It is a rite of passage for postdocs to visit the Temple of Literature.

• Location: 58 Quoc Tu Giam, Van Mieu, Dong Da, Hanoi, Vietnam
• Opening hours: Daily from 8 am to 4.30 pm

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