A traveller’s guide to visiting Hanoi
Hanoi is a thousand year-old city soaked in ancient culture and old-world charm. The 19th century French occupation contributed to the city’s colonial legacy. Don’t be surprised to find lemon-coloured French heritage buildings and French cuisine across Hanoi. Today, Hanoi is a charming blend of the Western influence and Eastern culture. This is reflected in the distinctive lifestyles and the cuisine that represents modern Vietnam. With a multi-cultural mosaic of people, settlements and struggles over time, Hanoi is certainly a city of contrasts.
Ha Noi – the “city within the river’s bend”
The old city of Thang Long was named Ha Noi sometime during the 19th century. The name takes after the strategic location at the bend of the Red River. Like most ancient cities in Asia, Hanoi too resonates of tales from the past. Steeped in rich history and culture, it is the story of an old and spiritual city striving to match rapid urbanisation and ultra-modern trends.
What to see
Hanoi truly offers the diversity of Vietnam at a single location. Most attractions are scattered around the city, easily accessed on foot or the cyclo. At the same time, you can make the best of the city’s proximity to some of the most beautiful karst locations on earth. The Halong Bay, Hoa Lu and Tam Coc; are close-by and make for excellent day tours.
Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum - This is Hanoi’s iconic attraction. It is built along the lines of Lenin’s mausoleum, in honour of Vietnam’s national idol, President Ho Chi Minh.
One Pillar Pagoda - Close-by is another Hanoi icon – the One Pillar Pagoda. This is a shrine dedicated to the Goddess of Mercy, Quan Am. Built upon a concrete pillar and designed like a lotus to symbolise “enlightenment” in Buddhism, it is a popular place of reverence.
The National Museum of Vietnamese History - This museum is a must-visit for travellers who want to know more about the ancient history of Vietnam. The building itself is a beautiful colonial structure, with many carefully preserved exhibits.
Vietnam Museum of Ethnology - This is a museum with a difference. Although it lies outside the city to its northwest, it is worth taking the detour. The museum is dedicated to Vietnam’s ethnic groups; and houses many arts, crafts and even dwellings showcasing tribal life.
Hoan Kiem Lake and Ngoc Son Temple - At the heart of Hanoi is Hoan Kiem Lake, with its own quaint legend to charm you. The highlight of this park is the Ngoc Son Temple in the centre of the lake, reached by a red classic bridge.
The Perfume Pagoda - Although at a distance of 60 km from Hanoi, the Perfume Pagoda is a must-visit. It is a 15th century Buddhist temple built into the mountain slope surrounded by some of the most scenic countryside.
Temple of Literature - One of the few remaining ancient centres of learning in Asia, The Temple of Literature is a beautiful, well-preserved building dedicated to the scholar Confucius and his works.
Lotte Tower Observation Deck - East of the lake is this amazing observation deck on the 65th floor. Take in 360-degree views of Hanoi and walk up to the rooftop bar on the 67th floor for a drink.
What to do
There is so much to do at Hanoi, that it makes sense to plan your itinerary separating in-city attractions from others close-by. Begin by touring the city and its attractions during the day, and wind up with some great entertainment, the Vietnamese way.
Take a walkabout - Most attractions are within walking distance, and provide a wonderful opportunity to explore the more interesting sections like the “quintessentially Vietnam”, Old Quarter.
Go for a guided street food tour – Take a guided tour of Vietnamese street food. Sample the most authentic Vietnamese cuisine and French patisserie. Take a cookery class or learn to wield the chopstick!
Watch a water puppet theatre - Watch Vietnam’s most traditional folk entertainment, the water puppet show, that tells tales of Vietnamese history and rural life.
Go shopping - Shop for Vietnamese silk at Hang Gai, or pick up ethnic Vietnamese handicrafts at street stalls. Visit the Dong Xuan Market for trendy fashion wear at bargain prices.
Watch a performance at the Hanoi Opera House - One of the best forms of night entertainment is the Vietnamese concert. Watch a drama, ballet, classic opera or dance performance at the Hanoi Opera House.
Take a Hoa Lu and Tam Coc countryside tour – Visit the beautiful countryside dotted with 10th-century temples. Follow up with a scenic boat ride down the Ngo Dong River past paddy fields. Explore the limestone caves of Tam Coc, and capture it all with your camera.
Enjoy a Halong Bay islands and cave tour – Explore the magic of the karst seascape on a traditional boat. Cruise the islands, enjoy fresh seafood lunch and explore the caves. This can be one of your most memorable travel experiences.
