Tourist Attractions in Hanoi

As the capital of Vietnam, Hanoi is one of the most famous tourist attractions across the country that overseas visitors are always eager to explore. If you are finding a place for your vacation in this Summer, you should never forget these five well - known and interesting places in this historic but dynamic city.

1. Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum

The first recommendation should go to Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum. Visiting Hanoi without coming to Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum would be a total loss for your whole journey. Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum is an extremely important historical attraction of Hanoi, known for honoring the national hero of all times: President Ho Chi Minh. The building is where visitors can express their admiration and gratitude towards the common uncle of Vietnamese who led the country to independence and reunification. Built in 1973, the Mausoleum has been a lively illustrator of national unity.

Visiting Mausoleum is free of charge but you will need to follow a set of strictly enforced regulations. Specifically, no short skirts, no tank tops, no taking photos or finger - pointing are allowed.

Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum

2. Bat Trang Pottery Village

Bat Trang, located in Gia Lam district of Hanoi, is the historic old pottery village. Its ceramics which were produced for daily household use, worshipping or decoration purposes were favorite products not only in domestic market but also in foreign ones during the 15th to 17 centuries. Nowadays, this famous village, together with its amazing products still remains. More exciting, the pottery artists bring into ceramics many innovations in production techniques and creativity in product’s features. Visiting the village, tourists can take a walk or join a buffalo tour for sightseeing and shopping. However, what makes Bat Trang village more attractive is that tourists can directly make pottery products by themselves and keep them as souvenirs or bring them as gifts for family and friends. This pottery - making experience is also the highlight of Bat Trang village that most tourists are interested in.

Bat Trang Pottery Village

3. Temple Of Literature

The Temple of Literature was conducted in 1070 under Ly Thanh Tong’s dynasty to originally honor Confucius and to nowadays celebrate the doctorates and high rank scholars of Vietnam. The structure is divided into five court yard, each with its own significance and history. The Temple has one of the most typical architecture style of centuries in Vietnam, composed of wood and tiles. Along the pass way is hundred - year - old trees that have witnessed ups and downs of the history. Therefore, if you want to explore the historical architecture of this beautiful country, you can never ignore the solemn Temple.

Temple of Literature

4. Hoan Kiem Lake

Hoan Kiem lake is considered the center and also the soul of Hanoi. There is even a legend behind this famous lake. The tale is about Le Loi King using the sword “Thuan Thien” (harmonious with heaven) for the battle against the war with a neighbouring country, gaining victory and then returning the sword to the Gragon King at Hoan Kiem Lake. However, not only is its history special but the lake itself is so beautiful with extraordinary greenish color with dark or light shade, depending on the reflection of the sky. Before and even after Hanoi’s massive expansion in 2009, Hoan Kiem Lake is still a pride of Hanoians and the center for any distance measurement. During all day long will you catch lines of people, both oldies and teenagers doing any thing around the lake such as yoga, aerobics, running, taking photos or gathering and sightseeing.

Hoan Kiem Lake

5. Hanoi’s Old Quarter

Travelling to Hanoi for tourism purpose, you must be eager to grasp the city’s special and distinctive culture and cuisine. That is why Hanoi’s Old Quarter becomes the top recommendation for your exploration. Hanoi’s Old Quarter can give you a mixed feeling about an old and nostalgic place but also a bustling area actively trying to adapt to the dynamic atmosphere of the modern city. Hanoi’s Old Quarter consists of not only old - styled narrow streets full of antique brick houses but also many small, meandering and vigorous streets where merchants and artisans gathers to sell their products. Especially, Hanoi’s Old Quarter boasts the best selection of traditional and famous cuisine not only in Hanoi but also in the whole country such as awesome “Pho” (noodle soup), “Bun thang”, “Cha ca La Vong”, “Bun Cha” (Grilled Pork), Hanoi Bread,....

Hanoi’s Old Quarter