HANOI CITY TOUR: TOP 6 MUST-VISIT FOR THE FIRST TIME

Discover Hanoi – a city of a thousand years of culture, where each street contains unique historical and cultural stories. Our Hanoi city tour allows you to experience an impressive journey through historical relics, famous landmarks and unique cultural activities. From ancient streets in the Old Quarter to modern architectural works, from traditional specialties to green areas, Hanoi tour is not just a trip, but also a journey to understand and deeply feel the culture, history and people here. Let’s explore Hanoi with us and create unforgettable memories on this journey!

Table of contents

1. Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum
2. Hanoi Old Quarter
3. Hanoi Opera House
4. The Temple of Literature
5. One Pillar Pagoda
6. The Vietnam Museum of Ethnology

1. Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum

Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum is located in Ba Dinh Square, Hanoi, where many important events in Vietnamese history took place. The mausoleum was officially inaugurated on September 2, 1973. This is where President Ho Chi Minh’s body is preserved in a glass coffin, placed in a solemn and peaceful space. Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum is not only a memorial but also a symbol of the solidarity and patriotism of the Vietnamese people.

When visiting Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, visitors will be guided into the mausoleum through the main doors. The visit requires solemnity and respect, and visitors are often asked to stand in line, remain quiet and wear formal attire. In addition to visiting the mausoleum, visitors can also explore surrounding buildings such as Ho Chi Minh’s Stilt House, Ho Chi Minh Museum and the Party Central Committee Office.

Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum is open to visitors on weekdays except Mondays and Fridays, and is usually closed on major holidays. Opening hours may vary due to special events or maintenance work.

2. Hanoi Old Quarter

Hanoi Old Quarter is a famous historical area of the city, featuring narrow streets and ancient houses bearing traditional cultural imprints. Formed in the 13th century, this area is a bustling commercial center and a place to preserve many unique cultural values of Hanoi. Visitors will experience a lively space, with shops, eateries and a variety of goods located close together.

Each street in the Old Quarter is often named after the items they specialize in selling, such as Hang Bac Street, Hang Gai Street, and Hang Dao Street. The houses in this area often have classical architecture, with narrow facades and red tiled roofs, creating a nostalgic yet vibrant beauty. In particular, the Old Quarter is also famous for its delicious street food, from pho, bun cha to egg coffee, attracting domestic and foreign tourists.

Hanoi Old Quarter is not only an ideal destination to explore the history and culture of the city, but also an ideal place to enjoy Hanoi’s typical cuisine. With its bustling atmosphere and rich shopping and culinary activities, the Old Quarter offers visitors a lively and authentic experience of the life and culture of the capital.

3. Hanoi Opera House

Hanoi Opera House, also known as Hanoi Opera House, is one of the most prominent and important architectural works in the capital of Vietnam. Built in the late 19th century, this work is not only a performing arts center but also a cultural and historical symbol of Hanoi.

Hanoi Opera House was built under the direction of French colonialists in 1901 and completed in 1911. The architecture of the theater is designed in the French neoclassical style, with typical elements such as Corinthian columns, elaborately decorated facades and large domes. The work was strongly influenced by the Paris Opera House, with the aim of providing a high-quality performing arts venue for residents and tourists.

The Opera House has an impressive facade with white stone columns and delicate decorative details. Inside, the space is decorated with murals and magnificent chandeliers. The spacious stage and seating areas are designed to provide optimal views for the audience. The interior of the theater is imbued with a classic European style, with exquisite details and intricate patterns.

The Hanoi Opera House is a venue for musical performances, operas, ballets and important cultural events. It is also the venue for many national events and festivals, as well as international concerts and art programs. With a modern sound and lighting system, the theater provides an ideal space for high-quality artistic performances.

Visitors can join guided tours to learn about the history and architecture of the Opera House. Tours usually include a visit to the main areas of the theater, including the lobby, waiting room and stage. For those who love the arts, attending a performance at the theater is a great experience to enjoy outstanding works of art in a historic and luxurious space.

4. The Temple of Literature

The Temple of Literature, also known as the Temple of Literature – Quoc Tu Giam, is an important historical site in Hanoi, Vietnam. Built in 1070 under the Ly Dynasty, the Temple of Literature is a place to worship Confucius and great scholars, and was also the leading educational center of ancient Vietnam. The building is notable for its traditional architecture, including the main gate, large courtyard, and shrine areas.

The Temple of Literature is divided into several areas, including temples and stone steles engraved with the names of successful candidates in national examinations. The buildings in the campus are all elaborately decorated, with stone pillars and traditional tiled roofs, creating a solemn and ancient space. The stone steles are a testament to Vietnam’s tradition of learning and knowledge.

Visiting the Temple of Literature, you will not only admire the unique architectural beauty but also learn about the history of education and culture of Vietnam. This is an ideal destination to explore the cultural heritage and honor the intellectual values of the country.

5. One Pillar Pagoda

The One Pillar Pagoda is located in the center of Hanoi and was built in 1049 under the Ly Dynasty. The structure stands out with its unique design: a lotus-shaped pagoda roof supported by a single stone pillar, standing on a square lake. This architecture is not only beautiful but also represents purity and wisdom.

The One Pillar Pagoda is not only an attractive destination for tourists because of its unique beauty but also has profound cultural and spiritual values. This is a symbol of the perfect combination of architectural art and traditional spiritual elements. Visitors coming here can feel the solemn and peaceful atmosphere of the structure.

With its long history and special design, the One Pillar Pagoda is an ideal destination to learn about Vietnam’s cultural heritage and traditions. This building is not only a symbol of Hanoi but also a place to preserve the precious cultural values of the country.

6. The Vietnam Museum of Ethnology

The Vietnam Museum of Ethnology, located in Hanoi, is an important destination to explore the richness and diversity of the cultures of Vietnam’s ethnic minorities. Opened in 1997, the museum boasts more than 25,000 artifacts, including traditional costumes, household items, and unique works of art. The museum’s design combines modernity and tradition, creating an attractive and accessible space for visitors.

Here, you can visit outdoor and indoor exhibitions, learn about the lifestyles, customs, and arts of different ethnic communities. The museum is not only a place to preserve and display cultural heritage, but also an address to educate and honor the precious traditional values of Vietnam.

At the end of the Hanoi city tour, visitors will bring back not only memorable memories but also a deep understanding of the history, culture and people of the capital. From historical sites, Hanoi appears as a colorful picture, where the past blends with the present. The city tour not only takes you to the highlights but also opens up opportunities to experience the city’s unique lifestyle and cuisine. Hopefully this trip has brought you moments of relaxation and interesting discovery, and at the same time inspired you to continue exploring and learning more about the beauty of Hanoi.