Packed full of history, character and old world charm, this captivating city is one of the most interesting in South East Asia. Shop for bargains in Hanoi’s many local markets or sample culinary delights at one of the street food stands that dot the centre of the city. If you’re interested in Vietnam’s history and culture, the museums, monuments and temples of Hanoi will keep you busy for days, while those looking to let their hair down will find a great selection of bars, clubs and restaurants in the city’s atmospheric centre.
Areas & Neighbourhoods in Hanoi
Hoan Kiem – Home to Hanoi’s world famous Old Quarter, the Hoan Kiem district is the perfect place to start your exploration of the city. Visit the Hoan Kiem Lake, Hoa Lo Prison, the Ngoc Son Temple or Hanoi Grand Cathedral or take in an unforgettable show at Hanoi Opera House.
Ba Dinh – Embassies, palaces and monuments dot this grand area, with the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum one of Ba Donh’s most famous landmarks. Cool off with a refreshing drink in the shady streets of the French Quarter or relax by the shores of Truc Bach Lake
Cau Giay – The high rises and developments of Cau Giay contrast sharply with the atmospheric streets of old Hanoi. Explore the district’s university buildings or learn more about Vietnam’s history in the outstanding Museum of Ethnology.
Hai Ba Trung – This densely populated district is home to Hanoi University and Times City, a colossal shopping centre complete with built in aquarium. Visit Hai Ba Trung to experience student life in the city or to shop till you drop in the expansive mall.
Things to See in Hanoi
Thanks to its rich and extensive history, Hanoi has a huge number of sights to see. If you want to learn more about Hanoi’s recent past, start by visiting the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and Hao Lo Prison. Journey further back in time with a trip to see the Tran Quoc Pagoda, parts of which date back to the 6th century, or visit the One Pillar Pagoda, the Ngoc Son Temple or the 11th century Temple of Literature. Hanoi’s Old Quarter is another of the city’s must see sights, with its narrow streets, evocative views and hidden delights well worth a day or two of your time during your stay in the city.
Things to Do in Hanoi
With so much history on offer, you can’t visit Hanoi without taking in at least a few of the city’s museums. Visit the Museum of Ethnology, the Army Museum or the Vietnamese Women’s Museum to find out more about Vietnamese life and culture. If you want to experience the modern city, hire a moped and explore Hanoi’s hectic streets, join a boat tour and see the city from a different perspective or sign up for a street food tour and sample some of the best cuisine South East Asia has to offer. For shopping, head to the Hanoi Night Market or the Dong Xuan Market and for nightlife, explore the bars and clubs in the centre of Hanoi.
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