Things to do in Hanoi- Pickyourtrail Recommended

Hanoi, The capital of Vietnam is also the second-largest city. In winter months this place gives you a pleasant experience. The city has a rare combination of wild and wonderful sights. You could witness everything from the destruction of the war city to the best of flora you can get in the whole of Vietnam, well-preserved colonial buildings, antique pagodas, unique museums, vibrant nightlife, skills and handicrafts, a multicultural community and affordable luxuries. The location of the city makes it even more compelling, it is located on the serene banks of Red River.

This capital city has a rich history dating back 1000 years at least. So, if you are planning for your next vacation to Vietnam, then going through this whole lost will give you a good look at the things you can do In Hanoi.

Things To Do In Hanoi

• Visit Hoa Lo Prison
• Walk around Hoan Kiem Lake
• The Halong Bay
• Visit the Perfume Pagoda
• Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum
• Admire Bach Ma Temple
• Visit Lotte Tower Observation Deck
• The Imperial Citadel

1. Visit Hoa Lo Prison

During the Vietnam War, this prison was used to captivate soldiers from the United States. Keeping this in mind, you’ll be strolling through the galleries which depict the history until the 1950s. You can also get to know the Vietnamese struggle for Independence.

The French guillotine is one of the showpieces in the galleries that will give you a spine-Chilling experience. It is nothing but an instrument designed to make the process of beheading easy. It was used to behead the Vietnamese activists and also few American pilots during the Vietnam War.

2. Walk around Hoan Kiem Lake

It is believed to be a Mystical body of water. It is perhaps one of the most famous spots in Hanoi. According to the local people, the lake is considered as the house for a mythical resident Turtle, who is the hero of Vietnamese Legend.

Apart from this myth, you can also see so many other turtles swimming around the lake. In addition to all this, you have a pleasant view across the water and would be the best bet in the afternoon when you are in Hanoi. Municipal water puppet theatre is another place nearby this, which you shouldn’t miss if you want to have some of Vietnamese Music.

3. The Halong Bay

For all the people who want to have some peaceful time on your vacation can surely visit this place. Halong Bay is well known mainly for Kayaking. But the government stepped in and banned the activity due to the environmental damages caused by the tours and travels.

Yet you can still enjoy the caves and the beautiful limestones standing all over the Bay. Tai Chi is another place you should visit if you are interested in Sunbathing. Fishing is the best thing about this place, can you be more relaxed than when you are on a boat admiring the gorgeous scenery and fishing?

Also check: Halong Bay tour package

4. Visit the Perfume Pagoda

The perfume Pagoda is one of the temples that you can find slightly in the outskirts of Hanoi and it can be done as a day trip out of Hanoi. This temple dates back to the 15th Century and comprises of a number of Buddhist temples built on the mountainsides.

From Hanoi, it will take at least 2 hours to get to Pagoda place by road. Once reached you will need to take a short scenic boat ride. While exploring the place you will have to climb over rocks and cross tranquil mountain streams. This is one of the best day trips to take outside of Hanoi.

5. Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum

Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum is a huge complex covered by the pretty garden for the most part and it is one of the pilgrimage spots for many Vietnamese The complex is a repository built after the founder of modern Vietnam, Ho Chi Minh.

Inside the Mausoleum, you can see the remains of Ho Chi Min preserved in a glass case. This again is another place where you should go to understand the history of Vietnam and the galleries are filled with his personal remembrances.

Also check: Ho Chi Minh tour package

6. Admire Bach Ma Temple

Bach Ma temple is located in the place called old Quarter in Hanoi and it is considered as the oldest temple in the city. Sadly, the temples we see now is not the actual temple that was built in the 11th Century. Over the years due to several invasions, it was rebuilt som many times.

The major renovation work was said to have happened in the 18th Century. This temple was believed to be built by the Emporer Ly Thai after the White horse which led him to the site of the building. In addition to this, you can also see a statue of Confucius which was built in 1893.

7. Visit Lotte Tower Observation Deck

Ready to take in the best views over Hanoi, then visit the Lotte Tower Observation Deck. Like most other famous destination around the world, this place also has an observation deck for you to witness the aerial beauty of the city. Usually, the view is taken from the 65th floor of the building.

However, you can also stroll to other parts of the tower if you want. From that height, you get a clear view of the Old Quarter, which sprawls in all direction. And the best part about this is that you can find hotels, restaurants and a scenic rooftop bar as well. Don’t miss.

8. The Imperial Citadel

Want to visit Opera House? Don’t worry Vietnam has one for you in Hanoi. You can enjoy the lovely show of opera singing. A large crowd gathers at this place every year from all around the world. Not Just for the performance but also the adore the architectural beauty of this building. There will also be ballet performance at a particular time of the year.

Sadly, the list has to come to an end, but there are numerous other spots in Hanoi where you can spend some quality time. Wanna know more about the destination. Check out our guides page. We at Pickyourtrail help travellers with customised vacation plans. And don’t forget to check out the best Vietnam tour packages.