Hanoi, the capital city of Vietnam, is an excellent starting point for discovering the thousand-year-old charm and culture of this South East Asian country. A city between ancient and modern, it offers a rich architectural heritage. The roots of Vietnamese culture and history can be found in the Old Quarter, a maze of streets with merchants selling all kinds of goods.
The city is located on the banks of the Red River and is also called the "city of lakes" because of the lakes that dot it. Between flea markets, small temples and pagodas, street food stalls, interesting museums and monuments that testify the history of Vietnam, Hanoi is an exciting city to visit for the Western traveler.
Top 10 things to see in Hanoi
Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum: Funeral monument housing the remains of Ho Chi Minh, the beloved Vietnamese leader, placed in Ba Ðinh square where the declaration of independence took place.
Temple of Literature: The locals call it Vàn Miếu, and it was the site of the oldest university in Vietnam, mostly for sons of nobles.
Temple of the Jade Mountain: On an island within the Lake of the Restored Sword, this temple is also known as Ngoc Son, to be reached by crossing a red bridge. Famous for a representation of the giant tortoise, which is the symbol of Hanoi.
Lake of the Restored Sword: The most famous lake in Hanoi, linked to an ancient legend. It is said that the warrior king Thai To received a sword from the Turtle god as a gift. The king used it for his battles, but after independence, a turtle emerged from the lake demanding the return of the sword. The king returned the weapon to its rightful owner: hence the name of the lake.
One-Pillar Pagoda: Another important attraction of Hanoi is the Chùa Một Cột pagoda, famous because it is based on a single pillar. Built by Emperor Ly Thai Thong, it is meant to resemble a lotus flower.
Tran Quoc Pagoda: About 10 minutes from the center of Hanoi, this pagoda is halfway between Lake Hồ Tay and Truc Bach, consisting of 11 levels and 6 doors. From its summit you can enjoy a splendid view of the city.
Hanoi Cathedral: Also called "Little Notre Dame Cathedral", it was built in Neo-Gothic style during the French colonial period.
Historic Center: The historic center is the true soul of Hanoi, with its perfumes, its noises, the colors, the shops and the street food stalls.
Museum of Vietnam War: Inside the Citadel of Hanoi, this museum tells the story of the wars fought by Vietnam and the weapons used.
Water Puppet Theater: An evocative place that sheds light on the ancient traditions of Vietnam. The water puppet show accompanied by Vietnamese music is an attraction that does not stop to fascinate tourists. The puppets are moved on the water through a system of poles and pulleys.
