Best of Hanoi, Vietnam: 8 must-visit attractions that are worth your time.
Named one of the most charming cities in Southeast Asia, Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam, is a great destination for those looking for a unique and memorable experience. From the Old Quarter to the various spectacular natural landscapes, this colorful city of 2.5 million is full of amazing sights for tourists to explore.
If you are planning to visit Hanoi, here are some of the must-visit attractions that are worth your time.
1. Hoan Kiem Lake: Hoan Kiem Lake is one of the most iconic places in the city and is a great place to take a leisurely stroll or to just relax and take in the beauty of the lake. This lake plays an important role in the city’s culture and traditions and is the site of the famous Ngoc Son Temple, a beautiful shrine dedicated to Vietnamese rulers and scholars. Not to mention, the lake has a rich and vibrant history that dates back thousands of years and is still much admired to this day.
2. The iconic Old Quarter: The Old Quarter is one of the oldest and most famous parts of Hanoi that is famous for its narrow streets and traditional architecture. This area is bustling with local vendors and street food stalls, perfect for all kinds of cuisine from both local and international. Plus, the Old Quarter is full of historic sites including the Ba Dinh Square, the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, and the One Pillar Pagoda, which are all well worth a visit.
3. The Temple of Literature: The Temple of Literature is the first university of Vietnam, built in 1076 and is one of the most important relics of the nation’s past. With its five courtyards and magnificent architecture, it is a great place to explore and learn more about the history of the country. Plus, it also houses a beautiful lake and some of the oldest trees in the city.
4. The Perfume pagoda: The Perfume Pagoda is a popular pilgrimage site located near Hanoi and is a must-visit attraction. It is the most important religious complex in the country and is one of the most picturesque settings in Hanoi. Here, you can take a boat down the Perfume River and explore the temples, caves, and Buddhist statues.
5. St. Joseph’s Cathedral: St. Joseph’s Cathedral is a late-19th century Roman Catholic Cathedral located in the heart of Hanoi and is a great place to visit if you are looking for a good cultural experience. This grand church is an important religious site and a popular tourist destination that is filled with beautiful art, furniture, and sculptures ideal for photography enthusiasts.
6. The Water Puppet Theatre: The Water Puppet Theatre is an ancient art form that dates back centuries in Vietnam and is a mesmerizing display of art and culture. Here, you can witness performances of unique puppets made from wood and controlled by skilled puppeteers commanding the puppet shows with traditional Vietnamese music.
7. Tran Quoc Pagoda: Located on the shore of West Lake, the Tran Quoc Pagoda is the oldest Buddhist Pagoda in Hanoi. This stunning building is over 1500 years old and its traditional architecture and stunning beauty make it a must-visit attraction.
8. Hoa Lo Prison: A stark reminder of Vietnam’s troubled past, Hoa Lo Prison is a former prison that is now a museum filled with heartbreaking stories of torture and ill-treatment during the war. It is a symbol of the struggles that the nation faced during the French colonial period and the Vietnam War.
Hanoi is one of the most beautiful cities in Southeast Asia and these eight attractions are a must-visit when you are here. Whether you are looking to enjoy the traditional culture or explore some stunning architecture and sights, Hanoi has something for everyone.
Image Credit: Pexels
