History of Hanoi
Experience one of Asia’s most captivating cities: Hanoi! From the historical sites that tell its amazing story to the delicious foods that will tantalize your taste buds, Hanoi is sure to enchant. From exploring the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum or admiring the beauty of the Temple of Literature to savoring the flavors of Pho, Banh Mi, and Bun Cha, this ancient city offers something for everyone. Plus, don't forget to check out the shopping hot spots and find accommodations that fit your needs. Immerse yourself in the culture and explore the treasures of Hanoi!
Cultural Attractions
Hanoi, Vietnam is a city steeped in history and culture, making it an ideal destination for tourists looking to explore its rich assortment of attractions. From the impressive Old Quarter to the picturesque Hoan Kiem Lake and from the bustling markets to the captivating temples, there is plenty of cultural attractions to be found throughout the city.
The Old Quarter is one of Hanoi’s most recognizable and treasured attractions. This area is a maze of narrow, winding alleyways filled with traditional shops and quaint cafes. Here visitors can explore temples, museums, a busy market and the Hoa Lo Prison, which is also known as the ‘Hanoi Hilton’. Here, visitors can learn about the area’s hard-fought history and gain insight into the country’s turbulent past.
The Hoan Kiem Lake is an iconic lake in the heart of Hanoi and a popular spot for visitors. A visit to this lake offers visitors the chance to take a leisurely stroll around the tranquil waters, admire the lush vegetation and visit the Ngoc Son Temple. This temple sits on an island in the center of the lake and offers visitors a cultural and spiritual experience.
The bustling markets of Hanoi are a great way to experience the culture of the city. One of the most popular markets is Dong Xuan, which is located in the Old Quarter. Here, visitors can browse a vast range of goods, from exotic fruits and vegetables to traditional clothing, shoes, jewelry and more.
The incredible temples of Hanoi are a must-visit for anyone exploring the city’s cultural attractions. The most famous of these temples is the One Pillar Pagoda, which was built in 1049 in honor of the ancient goddess of mercy. Other notable temples include Bach Ma, Tran Quoc and Quan Su. Each of these temples offers visitors a glimpse into the city’s religious and spiritual history.
Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum
When exploring the treasures of Hanoi, no visit is complete without a trip to the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum. This national monument is dedicated to Ho Chi Minh, the revolutionary leader and iconic figure of Vietnam who passed away in 1969. The Mausoleum is a testament to the beloved leader and symbol of national pride, and welcomes thousands of visitors each year.
Located in the centre of Ba Dinh Square in Hanoi, the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum is a sombre yet awe-inspiring sight. The building itself is a grand structure set against a backdrop of gardens and trees. The walls and roof are made of granite, and the red carpet inside symbolizes the commitment of the people to their leader.
Visitors can enter the Mausoleum at specified times and observe the solemn atmosphere that pervades the interior. At the centre of the room lies Ho Chi Minh's embalmed body, preserved so that visitors can pay their respect to the great leader. The room is decorated with paintings, photographs and artifacts all paying tribute to the leading figure of Vietnam.
The Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in seeing a symbol of Vietnamese pride. Whether it is to pay tribute to the nation's beloved leader, or to observe the grandeur of the structure itself, visitors will be awed by the visit to this national monument.
Temple of Literature
The Temple of Literature, located in the heart of Hanoi, is one of the most important cultural landmarks in the city. Dating back to the 11th century, the Temple is a symbol of the city’s long and illustrious history. The Temple is dedicated to Confucius and the four Chinese scholars who wrote the Chinese Classics between 900 and 600 B.C.
The Temple is comprised of five courtyards, each of which have their own cultural significance. The first courtyard is the Trung Dao (Central Path), which is lined with stone steles depicting the names of Vietnam’s 82 best scholars and their works. Moving inward, the second courtyard has a pond and the beautiful Flag Tower, where a ceremony was once held to appoint the top scholars. The remaining courtyards contain a library, an altar, and a pavilion dedicated to Confucius, making it the perfect place to learn about the rich culture of Vietnam.
The Temple of Literature is not only an important symbol of learning and education, but also a great tourist destination. The courtyards are filled with lush gardens and peaceful ponds, and make for a great respite from the hustle and bustle of the city. Visitors can take a guided tour of the courtyards to learn more about the history of the Temple, and there are also several nearby cafes and restaurants for a delicious meal.
With its deep historical significance and tranquil atmosphere, the Temple of Literature is a must-visit when exploring the treasures of Hanoi.
Hoan Kiem Lake
Hoan Kiem Lake, or Sword Lake, is a beautiful and historically-significant body of water located in the heart of Hanoi, Vietnam. The lake serves as an iconic symbol of the city and is a must-see location for anyone visiting.
The lake has a storied past, having existed since at least the 15th century. According to legend, King Le Thai To was fishing in the lake when a golden tortoise emerged from the depths and presented him with a magical sword. He used the sword to drive out the Chinese invaders and reclaim Vietnam’s independence. To commemorate this event, the lake was renamed Hoan Kiem Lake, which translates to “The Lake of the Restored Sword.”
Today, the lake is a popular tourist attraction, known for its stunning views of the city. Visitors can stroll along the picturesque shores and take in the tranquil beauty of the lake. There are several nearby parks, temples, and monuments to explore, as well as several restaurants, cafes, and bars offering a range of Vietnamese delicacies and drinks.
The lake itself is home to a variety of wildlife, including several species of birds, fish, and reptiles. One of the more unique residents is the endemic Hanoi soft-shelled turtle, a critically endangered species found only in the lake. Sightings of this rare turtle are said to bring good luck!
Hoan Kiem Lake is one of the most recognizable landmarks in Hanoi and should be on every traveler’s itinerary. The tranquil beauty of the lake and its fascinating history make it a must-visit destination.
Must-Try Cuisines
When it comes to the culture of Hanoi, food is an integral part. When taking the time to explore the city, it would be a crime to not partake in the culinary flavors of the city. From street food to upscale restaurants, there is something for everyone.
A must-try Hanoi cuisine is bun cha. This dish consists of grilled pork, pork patties, vermicelli, fresh herbs and vegetables all accompanied with a special sauce. It is served either with rice or with a bowl of soup. This hearty dish can be found all throughout the city, usually served on plastic tables and chairs in the small alleyways.
Another famous Hanoi dish is nem ran, or fried spring rolls. This dish is served by almost every street vendor in the city, stuffed with pork, mushrooms, and vegetables wrapped in a crisp pastry wrapping. It is usually served with rice paper and vegetables, along with a special lime-chili dipping sauce.
For a sweet finale, there is nothing better than banh goi. This fried pastry is typically filled with mung bean paste and pork, and served with a cup of hot tea. It is the perfect dessert after a full day of exploring the city.
When it comes to exploring the culinary delights of Hanoi, there are so many delicious options to choose from. From traditional street food to some of the city's more upscale fare, each dish is a unique and authentic experience. Whether you prefer to dine in a restaurant or eat from a street vendor, you won't be disappointed in the range of flavors available in the city.
Pho
When exploring the bustling streets and alleys of Hanoi, one of the most iconic dishes that come to mind is pho. Pho is a noodle soup that has been around for centuries and is a beloved culinary tradition of the city. The dish typically consists of flat rice noodles, a broth made from beef or chicken, and a variety of spices and herbs depending on the recipe.
The most popular type of pho is pho ga (chicken pho), though beef pho, vegetable pho, and seafood pho are all common variations. Whether you’re looking for a light snack on the go or a full-fledged meal, pho is sure to satisfy. In fact, it’s said that if you don’t eat pho while in Hanoi, it’s almost like you didn’t visit the city at all!
When ordering pho in Hanoi, the options are seemingly endless. Each vendor has their own recipe, and each bowl can be customized to your liking with copious amounts of fresh herbs, sauces, and condiments. The best part of pho is that you can tailor it to your own tastes, so don’t be afraid to experiment to find the version that’s perfect for you.
No matter what version of pho you’re eating, the key to the perfect bowl is in the broth. The best pho is made with a rich and flavorful broth that has been simmered for hours, and in Hanoi, you can find some of the best broths around. Many restaurants will have a pot of broth simmering on the stove for hours, and it is this broth that makes all the difference in a bowl of pho.
When heading out to explore the streets of Hanoi, make sure to include a stop at one of the local pho vendors. Whether you prefer the classic chicken pho or the beef version, you’re sure to find a bowl that will tantalize your taste buds. With the perfect balance of savory broth, fresh herbs, and delicious noodles, you’ll be glad you stopped for a bowl of pho.
Banh Mi
Tucked away in the bustling capital of Vietnam, Hanoi, lies one of the city's most cherished culinary delights. Banh Mi, or Vietnamese sandwich, is a speciality crafted out of the most quintessential ingredients of the country. It is a perfect amalgamation of flavors that capture the essence of Hanoi's culture and history. Banh Mi comes in various styles and is widely known for its crunchy and savory components.
To start off, the bread used for Banh Mi is a type of baguette with a crispy crust and a soft interior. Grilled pork, chicken, or beef are often combined with caramelized onions, pickled vegetables, fragrant herbs, and tangy sauces to make for a delicious treat. Banh Mi also comes with a generous dollop of mayonnaise, adding a rich and creamy texture to the sandwich.
For an extra kick, a generous helping of chili sauce is also added to the sandwich. The combination of these components enhances the overall flavor of the Banh Mi, creating a unique and complex taste that can only be found in Hanoi.
Banh Mi is a versatile snack and can be enjoyed in so many ways. It can be eaten as a light snack in between meals or as a full meal. No matter how it is served, this delicious sandwich is sure to tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving for more.
In Hanoi, you can find Banh Mi sold on the street corners and in local restaurants. It is one of the most beloved specialities of the city, making it a must-have for anyone looking to explore the delights of Hanoi. So if you are ever in the city, make sure you try out the delicious Banh Mi!
Bun Cha
When it comes to exploring the treasures of Hanoi, a visit to any of the city's numerous eateries is an absolute must. One of the staple dishes of the city is Bun Cha – a delicious grilled pork and noodle dish that is sure to tantalize the taste buds of any foodie.
To make Bun Cha, a grilled pork patty (called Nem Cua Be in Vietnamese) is served alongside a noodle-based dish known as Bun. The two are accompanied by a bowl of herbs, a plate of lettuce, and a dipping sauce made of fish sauce, sugar, and vinegar. To eat Bun Cha, you mix bun noodles and herbs together with the lettuce in your bowl. This mixture is then dipped into the sauce and enjoyed alongside the Nem Cua Be. It is an incredibly delicious combination that is sure to leave you feeling satisfied and content.
Aside from its delicious taste, Bun Cha is also an incredibly healthy dish. It is packed with nutrients – the grilled pork is full of protein, while the noodles contain complex carbohydrates and vitamins from the herbs. As a result, it is a great option for anyone looking for a healthy yet tasty meal.
If you're in Hanoi and looking for a delicious and nutritious meal, Bun Cha is the perfect choice. Its unique taste and combination of ingredients make it an absolute must-try, and you won't regret giving it a try. Bon appetit!
Shopping Hot Spots
Hanoi is known for its vibrant culture and lively atmosphere, but shopping is also an important part of city life. If you’re looking for a shopping adventure, you won’t be disappointed when visiting Hanoi. There are an abundance of shopping spots throughout the city, and each one is unique in its own way.
One of the most popular shopping hot spots in Hanoi is the Old Quarter. The Old Quarter is the iconic center of the city, and it’s full of narrow alleyways and winding streets. With more than 400 small businesses, the Old Quarter is a great place to explore and to find unique souvenirs and gifts. If you’re looking for clothes, jewelry, art and crafts, this is the place to go.
Another great shopping spot in Hanoi is the Dong Xuan Market. This market has everything from fresh seafood to clothing and accessories. It is an indoor marketplace that has become a bit of a tourist attraction. Here, you can find some great deals on traditional Vietnamese items, such as ceramics, lacquerware, and paintings.
When shopping in Hanoi, you should also visit the Hang Gai Street. This street is full of shops and boutiques, and it offers a great selection of both handmade goods and traditional items. From jewelry and clothing, to art and antiques, this street is a great place to find something special.
Finally, no trip to Hanoi would be complete without visiting the Hoan Kiem Lake area. This area is filled with markets and stores, and it's a wonderful place to stroll around and admire the traditional architecture. You can find everything from souvenirs to traditional clothing and accessories.
When shopping in Hanoi, it’s important to take your time and explore all of the options. Each shopping area has its own unique charm, so don’t be afraid to wander and discover something unexpected. With its vibrant culture, lively atmosphere, and vast selection of shopping spots, Hanoi is a great destination for shoppers from all over the world.
Accommodations
For those looking for an unforgettable vacation to explore the ancient city of Hanoi, there are numerous accommodation options to fit any budget. Whether you’re looking for luxury or a more affordable option, you’ll be able to find a place to stay that meets your needs.
For the luxury traveler, there are several five-star hotels located in the heart of downtown Hanoi. These luxurious hotels offer premium amenities, comfortable rooms, and exclusive services. The Silk Path Hotel offers a spa, fine dining, and concierge. The Hanoi La Siesta Hotel & Spa, located riverfront, has an outdoor pool and Jacuzzi as well as a sauna and fitness center. Another popular option is the Hanoi Grand Hotel, located just steps away from the Old Quarter. This property features a rooftop pool and terrace with stunning views of the city.
For those traveling on a budget, there are several affordable accommodations throughout Hanoi. The Golden Star Hotel offers comfortable rooms at an affordable price, while the Hang Tien Hotel has basic amenities and great value. For a unique experience, consider staying in one of the traditional-style homestays located throughout the city. These homestays offer an intimate experience of local life and provide opportunities for cultural exchange.
No matter what your budget or preference, there are plenty of places to stay in Hanoi. With so many options, you’re sure to find the perfect accommodation for your stay in the city.