Hanoi, the capital city of Vietnam, is known for its rich cultural heritage, beautiful architecture, and mouth-watering food. With a history dating back over a thousand years, Hanoi is a city with a lot of stories to tell. Here are some top things to do in Hanoi on your next holiday.
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Explore the Old Quarter
The Old Quarter is a must-visit when in Hanoi. It is a maze of narrow streets and alleyways that date back to the 13th century. Each street specializes in a particular trade, such as silver, silk, or bamboo products. It is a great place to experience the hustle and bustle of daily life in Hanoi. Don’t forget to try some of the street food, such as pho (Vietnamese noodle soup) or banh mi (Vietnamese sandwich).
Visit the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum
Ho Chi Minh was the founder of modern-day Vietnam and is revered by many Vietnamese people. His mausoleum is located in Ba Dinh Square, where he read out the Declaration of Independence of the Democratic Republic of Vietnam on September 2, 1945. The mausoleum is open to the public, but visitors must adhere to a strict dress code and behave respectfully.
See the Temple of Literature
The Temple of Literature was built in 1070 and is dedicated to Confucius. It was Vietnam’s first university and is considered one of the country’s most important historical sites. The temple features beautiful gardens, ancient stone tablets, and traditional Vietnamese architecture.
Visit the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology
The Vietnam Museum of Ethnology is a fascinating museum that showcases the country’s diverse ethnic groups. It features traditional costumes, artifacts, and exhibits on the daily life and customs of Vietnam’s many minority groups.
Try the street food
Hanoi is known for its delicious street food, and trying some of the local dishes is a must-do for any visitor. Some of the most popular dishes include pho (a soup made with rice noodles and beef or chicken), banh mi (a sandwich filled with meat, vegetables, and herbs), and bun cha (grilled pork served with rice noodles and herbs). Be adventurous and try some of the less well-known dishes too, like bún bò Huế or bánh xèo.
Watch a Water Puppet Show
Water puppetry is a traditional form of Vietnamese entertainment that dates back to the 11th century. The shows take place on a water-filled stage, with puppets operated by puppeteers who stand waist-deep in the water. The stories are usually based on rural folk tales and legends, and the puppets are accompanied by live music and singing. Watching a water puppet show is a fun and unique experience that shouldn’t be missed.
Visit the Hanoi Opera House
The Hanoi Opera House is a stunning example of French colonial architecture and is considered one of the city’s most important cultural landmarks. It was built in 1911 and was designed to resemble the Palais Garnier in Paris. Today, the opera house hosts a variety of cultural events, including concerts, ballets, and operas.
Take a day trip to Ha Long Bay
Ha Long Bay is one of the most beautiful natural wonders of Vietnam. Located about 170 kilometers from Hanoi, it features thousands of limestone karsts and islets rising from the turquoise waters of the Gulf of Tonkin. Visitors can take a boat tour of the bay, exploring the caves and islands, and enjoying the stunning scenery.
Walk around Hoan Kiem Lake
Hoan Kiem Lake is a peaceful oasis in the heart of Hanoi. It is surrounded by parks and gardens and is a popular spot for locals to exercise and relax. The lake is also home to the Ngoc Son Temple, which is accessible by a red-painted bridge.
In conclusion, Hanoi is a city with a rich history and culture. Whether you’re interested in exploring its ancient temples, sampling its delicious food, or experiencing its traditional art forms, there is something for everyone to enjoy in this vibrant city.
If you have any questions, or want some help to plan your next holiday, feel free to contact me.
