Hanoi, Vietnam City Guide

GETTING AROUND HANOI

French and Chinese influences, Vietnamese culture, and modernity mix and mingle in this vibrant capital city. You can wander narrow lanes and sample street food in the city’s Old Quarter, learn about Vietnam’s diverse ethnic minority groups at the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology, and visit the over 1,000-year-old Imperial Citadel. Exploring Hanoi on foot is our favorite way to immerse yourself! Of course, traffic in the major cities of Vietnam is a sight unto itself, so even crossing the street can be an adventure. For-hire transport options include taxis, motorbikes, and cyclos, and they require a bit of bargaining beforehand to decide on a rate. Keeping all that in mind, it is always best to check with your hotel concierge for the best way to get to any particular site of interest. Venture beyond this bustling metropolis through Boundless Journey’s Vietnam tours.

THINGS TO DO IN HANOI

1. TEMPLE OF LITERATURE (Van Mieu Mon)

This 11th century relic was built as an homage to the Chinese scholar Confucius. Home to Vietnam’s first university, the Imperial Academy, the Temple of Literature is a rare example of well-preserved traditional Vietnamese architecture.

2. HOA LO PRISON MUSEUM

Built in the late 19th century, the Hoa Lo prison is a potent reminder of Vietnam’s history and occupation. Known ironically as the “Hanoi Hilton” by American POWs during the Vietnam War, the site now displays exhibits relating to the prison’s use leading up to the 1950’s, with a focus on Vietnam’s struggle for independence from France.

3. IMPERIAL CITADEL OF THANG LONG

Also known as Hanoi’s Imperial Citadel, this was the hub of Vietnamese military power for more than 1000 years. Ongoing archaeological digs showcase ancient palaces, pavilions, and monuments. If you’re keen to experience more ancient history further afield, peruse our Boundless Journeys Asia adventure tours.

4. VIETNAM FINE ARTS MUSEUM

Showcasing Vietnam’s fine arts from a range of historical periods, the Fine Arts Museum offers English explanations for most artifacts as well as guided tours.

5. VIETNAM MUSEUM OF ETHNOLOGY

This museum is often stated to be the best in the country, and showcases extensive displays that highlight Vietnam’s 54 ethnic minority groups, traditional crafts, and well-crafted examples of houses
in the back gardens.

For hotel recommendations, please see the Pre- & Post-Tour section of your Trip Planner.

After visiting Hanoi’s sites, head to another captivating Vietnamese destination in our Ho Chi Minh, Vietnam City Guide.