Things To Do In Hanoi

Hoan Kiem Lake is also called the Sword Lake. What's famous about this place is that, legends say a Giant turtle held the sword from then the emperor Ly Thai To after the war and vanished into the lake. There is a turtle tower situated near the lake as a symbol of Vietnamese national pride and the country's struggle for independence.

Timings: The lake is open all day and is especially picturesque during early mornings and evenings. And there are no entry fees for visiting this lake. 

The Old Quarter in Hanoi is renowned for its 36 ancient streets. Each street is specialized in a specific area of trade, commerce and history. Shopping in Vietnam is never complete without visiting the old quarter, which is famous for coffee beans, silk items, watches and clothing. As you wander through the busy streets of the old quarter, you will discover hidden temples, traditional markets, and local street food vendors. It is totally safe to explore the old quarter streets, but better to avoid it during night time, especially after 10pm.

Timings: Shops are open from 6am to 7pm and Restaurants run from 10 in the morning and will close generally at 11 in the night.

The founding father of Vietnam, Ho Chi Minh, is covered in the mausoleum where his embalmed remains are kept. The mausoleum's portico will be etched with the words President Ho Chi Minh.The room is always fully guarded by soldiers. There are no entry charges, but very strict restrictions are imposed for the dress code. And taking photos is also prohibited. The way one behaves inside the mausoleum will be strictly monitored.

Timings: It's open in the mornings, and visitors can witness the solemn changing of the guard ceremony.

This unique pagoda resembles a lotus blossom emerging from a pond and is considered a symbol of Hanoi. This place was built by Emperor Ly Thai Tong. The Lotus is also a symbol of Intelligence and Eternity. The Stupa which was initially built in India, is the main inspiration behind the design of this Pagoda, thereby it is one of the most iconic places to visit in Hanoi.

Timings: Open for visitors during the day.

The Temple of Literature is dedicated to Confucius and his disciples. This temple serves as Vietnam's first University. The royal members of the Imperial academy studied in this very Temple. The Temple of Culture is another name for it. Explore the lush green gardens, courtyards, and historical monuments. Walking along these gardens is one of the most peaceful things to do when you visit this marvel.

Timings: Opens at 8am and closes at 5pm.

This architectural gem showcases the grandeur of French colonial design and hosts various cultural performances.Make a visit to this gem of a place and get your day fully immersed in classical music concerts, ballet, and traditional Vietnamese performances.

Timings: 8am to 11pm
Ticket prices: Rs.500/- to Rs.1300/-

The Hoa Lo Prison Museum is known as the "Hanoi Hilton". This museum sheds light on the grim history of the prison during the French colonial period. Get insights about the hardships faced by Vietnamese revolutionaries and American prisoners during the Vietnam War and its devastating impact it had on the Vietnamese people and their livelihood. All the displays in the museum are the actual materials used during the war period.

Timings: Morning 8 to Evening 5.

The Vietnam Women’s museum celebrates the contributions of women in Vietnamese history and culture. Explore exhibits that showcase the role of women in family life, wartime, and the development of Vietnam. The Vietnam Women's Union established and operated this gem of a Museum. The roles that Vietnamese women have played in the past and how those roles will impact Vietnam in the present and the future will be made clear to visitors.
Timings: 8am to 5pm

Take a guided bike tour to explore the rural countryside of Hanoi, including rice paddies, villages, and scenic landscapes. The Biking tour takes you along the Red river island. The tour generally lasts for about 4 to 5 hours.

Price: Rs.1600/- to Rs.3300/-

Located in a stunning limestone karst landscape of Hanoi, the Perfume Pagoda is a place of pilgrimage as well as natural beauty. Plan your visit to this fascinating place during the annual Perfume Pagoda Festival to experience local traditions and rituals of the Vietnamese. Constructed during the 15th Century, this temple is considered to be an important part of temples in Vietnam. Those excited to explore the culture of Vietnam should definitely not miss visiting this temple on their Vietnam trip.

Timings: open 24 hours

Bat Trang is famous for traditional pottery-making techniques passed down through generations in Vietnam. Explore the village by visiting pottery workshops, and even try your hand at creating your own pottery masterpiece. So many items ranging from flowerpots to teacups are made and sold in this village, making shopping very exciting for visitors and tourists.

Timings: 8am to 6pm

Hanoi is renowned for its delectable street food, from the iconic pho to the savory bun cha. What's more exciting and fascinating for food lovers than embarking on a guided street food tour to savor the authentic flavors of Hanoi's local cuisine. Try out different culinary delights and make your trip to Vietnam wholesome. The street food tour cost ranges from 22$ to 75$ based on the type of food tour you want to embark on.

Timings: 8am to 9pm

The Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre is the best place in Hanoi to witness the unique Vietnamese art form of water puppetry. It represents the artistic side of Vietnamese culture. Watch puppeteers skillfully manipulate puppets on water while live traditional music accompanies the performance. This water puppet show symbolizes the daily life of Vietnamese people living in northern Vietnam.

Timings: 8am to 6pm
Ticket prices: Rs.1800/- to Rs. 2200/-

Dong Xuan Market is the largest indoor market in Hanoi, offering a wide array of goods and local street food. Visitors can Shop for souvenirs, clothing, electronics, and immerse themselves in the lively market atmosphere. This market suits any kind of shopper's interests and expectations. The interesting fact is this market was actually built by the French in the 1890's period.

Timings: 6am to 6pm

Pickyourtrail offers Vietnam tour packages from India, including all these above mentioned places and things to do, to make this Vietnam tour memorable and worthy for all the Indian travelers.