Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam, is a city that blends ancient history with modern chaos.
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From centuries-old temples to vibrant street markets, Hanoi offers a sensory overload of sights, sounds, and flavors.
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Whether you’re a first-time traveler or a returning visitor, this guide will help you explore Hanoi’s must-see landmarks, hidden gems, and unforgettable food experiences.
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General Travel Info About Hanoi
• Currency: Vietnamese Dong (VND) – Cash is king, but credit cards are accepted in larger hotels and restaurants.
• Weather: Hanoi has four seasons, but the best time to visit is March–April (spring) and October–November (autumn) when the weather is pleasant.
• Transport: Use Grab (ride-hailing app), electric buggies in the Old Quarter, or rent a motorbike (only if you’re confident in traffic).
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Travel Hacks for Hanoi
• Crossing the street: Walk slowly and confidently—motorbikes will move around you.
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• Google Maps won’t always be accurate: Some small streets may not appear on maps. Ask locals if you’re lost.
• Use cash for street food: Most vendors don’t accept cards.
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• Bargain at markets: Start at 50% of the asking price and negotiate.
• Early mornings are magical: Temples and Hoàn Kiếm Lake are peaceful before 8 AM.
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Must-See Places in Hanoi
🛕 Historic & Cultural Spots
• Hoàn Kiếm Lake & Ngọc Sơn Temple – The heart of Hanoi, especially beautiful at sunrise and sunset.
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In the heart of the city lies the “Lake of the Returned Sword” — a tranquil spot surrounded by trees, soft light, and morning tai chi practitioners.
Walk across the iconic red bridge to Ngọc Sơn Temple, dedicated to the national hero Trần Hưng Đạo.
✨ Cultural Etiquette:
- Speak quietly inside temples.
- Remove your shoes when entering indoor shrine areas.
- Never point your feet toward Buddha statues.
- Avoid touching sacred objects unless invited.
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• Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum & Ba Đình Square – Pay respects to Vietnam’s former leader.
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Standing proudly in the center of Ba Đình Square, the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum is one of Hanoi’s most important landmarks — the final resting place of President Ho Chi Minh, the beloved “Uncle Ho” who led Vietnam’s independence movement.
Every morning, the Vietnamese flag-raising ceremony takes place here — a moving display of national pride that’s worth witnessing. The Mausoleum itself, built from granite, reflects both Soviet architectural influence and traditional Vietnamese respect for ancestors.
Nearby, you’ll find the Presidential Palace, Ho Chi Minh’s Stilt House, and the One Pillar Pagoda, making this area a must-visit for history and culture lovers alike.
✨ Cultural Etiquette:
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Dress modestly (shoulders and knees covered).
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No talking, photos, or phones allowed inside the Mausoleum.
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Walk slowly and respectfully — this is a sacred place for locals.
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Arrive early in the morning (before 10:30 AM) as the Mausoleum closes before noon.
📍 Location: Ba Đình Square, Hanoi, Vietnam
🕘 Hours: Typically open Tuesday–Thursday & weekends, mornings only (closed Mondays & Fridays).
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• Temple of Literature – Vietnam’s first university, a stunning example of traditional architecture.
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Built in 1070, this Confucian temple is a peaceful oasis in the middle of the city — and a symbol of learning and culture.
✨ What to Wear:
To visit temples and pagodas in Hà Nội, it’s important to dress modestly:
- Cover shoulders and knees.
- Avoid tight or revealing clothes.
- Bring a light muslin cotton robe, scarf, or detachable sleeves — they’re breathable in heat but respectful for sacred spaces.
🌿 Style Note: I personally use a muslin robe or scarf that doubles as a sun cover and temple wrap — comfort and modesty in one piece.
• Tran Quoc Pagoda – The oldest pagoda in Hanoi, located on West Lake.
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Located on West Lake (Hồ Tây), Tran Quoc is one of the most photographed pagodas in Vietnam — a serene place surrounded by water and lotus flowers.
Visit around sunset to see the pagoda glowing in golden light.
✨ Do’s and Don’ts:
✅ Do bow slightly before statues as a sign of respect.
✅ Do dress appropriately and speak softly.
❌ Don’t eat or drink inside the temple area.
❌ Don’t take selfies during prayer or ceremonies.
• Hoa Lo Prison (Hanoi Hilton) – A historical site with deep war history.
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Once a colonial-era prison built by the French in the late 19th century, Hỏa Lò Prison tells a powerful and emotional story of Vietnam’s turbulent past. Originally used to detain Vietnamese revolutionaries, it later held American prisoners of war during the Vietnam War — who ironically nicknamed it the “Hanoi Hilton.”
Today, much of the prison has been preserved as a museum, offering visitors a glimpse into the harsh conditions, resilience, and courage of those who were imprisoned here. Exhibits include personal belongings, reconstructed cells, escape tunnels, and powerful photographs that bring the history to life.
✨ Visitor Tips:
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Allow at least 1 hour to explore and read the exhibits.
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Visit early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds.
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The museum is partly air-conditioned, but bring water on hot days.
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Entry fee is modest, and guided tours or audio guides are available for deeper context.
📍 Location: 1 Hỏa Lò Street, Trần Hưng Đạo, Hoàn Kiếm District, Hanoi, Vietnam
🕘 Hours: Daily, 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
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🌆 Modern & Urban Experiences
• Lotte Tower Observation Deck – Best panoramic view of Hanoi from the 65th floor.
For a breathtaking view of Hanoi from above, head to the Lotte Tower Observation Deck, located on the 65th floor of the Lotte Center in Ba Đình District. From here, you can see the city stretch endlessly — shimmering lakes, winding streets, and the mix of old and new Hanoi architecture below.
The observation area features 360° glass walls, interactive displays, and a few thrilling glass-floor skywalks that let you “walk on air.” It’s especially magical at sunset or after dark, when the city lights sparkle beneath your feet.
There’s also a sky café and bar where you can relax with a drink while soaking up the panoramic skyline — a perfect spot for photos or a romantic evening.
✨ Visitor Tips:
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Entry fee: around 230,000 VND (~€8) per adult.
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Visit near sunset for golden-hour photos and evening city views.
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Tripods are not allowed, but phone stands are fine.
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Located inside Lotte Center Hanoi (shopping mall + restaurants).
📍 Location: 54 Liễu Giai Street, Ba Đình District, Hanoi, Vietnam
🕘 Hours: Daily, 9:00 AM – 10:00 PM
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• Train Street Café (Secret Viewpoints) – Watch trains pass through narrow streets (check new regulations before going).
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A narrow alley where trains pass within inches of homes — it’s chaotic, thrilling, and unforgettable.
If you visit, go respectfully. Locals still live there, so avoid standing directly on the tracks and always follow local guidance.
• Turtle Tower at night – A beautifully illuminated landmark in Hoàn Kiếm Lake.
Hidden Gems in Hanoi
🌿 Nature & Quiet Escapes
• Banana Island (Hidden Green Oasis) – A peaceful escape just across Long Biên Bridge.
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• Hidden Lotus Pond (West Lake Area) – Best visited in summer when the lotuses bloom.
🎭 Unique Experiences
• Long Biên Bridge at sunrise – Walk or cycle across this historic bridge for stunning views.
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• Phung Hung Mural Street – A beautiful art-filled street near the Old Quarter.
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• Dông Xuan Market Back Alleys – Explore small local markets behind the main bazaar.
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Must-Try Foods in Hanoi
🥖 Street Food Classics
• Phở (Vietnamese Noodle Soup) – Try Pho Gia Truyen (49 Bát Đàn) for authentic flavors.
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• Bún Chả – A Hanoi specialty with grilled pork and vermicelli noodles (Obama famously ate it at Bún Chả Hương Liên).
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• Bánh Mì Chảo – A Vietnamese-style breakfast skillet with pâté, eggs, and meat, served with crispy baguette.
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• Bánh Xèo – Crispy rice pancakes with shrimp and pork, wrapped in fresh herbs.
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🥤 Local Drinks
• Egg Coffee (Cà Phê Trứng) – A must-try! Best at Café Giảng.
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• Fresh Beer (Bia Hơi) – The cheapest beer in the world, found at street-side stalls.
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• Sugarcane Juice (Nước Mía) – Refreshing and perfect for hot days.
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🧘♀️ Respectful Travel: Quiet Customs That Matter
Vietnamese people value humility, harmony, and quiet respect. Even small gestures - like removing your shoes, greeting with a smile, or dressing modestly - show your awareness and appreciation.
✨ Simple Guide:
- Shoes: Always remove them when entering a temple or someone’s home.
- Offerings: You may leave flowers or incense; avoid money offerings unless locals do.
- Touching: Don’t touch heads (even children’s); it’s considered sacred.
- Photos: Ask before photographing monks, ceremonies, or locals.
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Hanoi is a city of contrasts, where the old meets the new and hidden gems await around every corner.
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Whether you're wandering through historic streets, discovering secret cafes, or indulging in world-class street food, there's no shortage of adventures in Vietnam's cultural capital.
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