TOP BEST ACTIVITIES YOU SHOULD DO IN HANOI-VIETNAM

(Vietnam travel tips)

Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam, is a city with a rich history and culture. With its numerous historical landmarks, fascinating architecture, and delicious food scene, Hanoi is an excellent destination for any traveler looking to experience the beauty and uniqueness of Vietnam. In this article, we will explore the top activities you should consider when visiting Hanoi.

Explore the Old Quarter: The Old Quarter is the heart of Hanoi, and it is full of narrow streets, traditional houses, temples, and markets. It is a great place to explore on foot, and you can find many shops, restaurants, and cafes. Try to visit during the weekend when the streets are closed to traffic, and you can experience the lively atmosphere of the Night Market.

 

One of the must-visit sights in Hanoi is the Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre. Here, puppeteers perform local legends, farming stories, and Vietnamese myths while standing waist-high in a pool of water. This ancient art form originated in the 11th century and has been preserved in Vietnam for centuries. Watching a water puppet show is a unique experience that gives insight into the local culture.

 

 

Imperial Citadel, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that was the seat of military power in Vietnam for 1,000 years. The site boasts a rich history that includes archaeological treasures, bunkers, weaponry collections, and military maps. It is an excellent place to learn about Vietnam’s military past and see firsthand the impact of colonization on the country.

 

 

A visit to the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum is a must. This complex is surrounded by beautiful gardens and contains the tomb of Ho Chi Minh, the founder of modern Vietnam. It is a pilgrimage spot for many Vietnamese, and visitors can also visit the Ho Chi Minh Museum, which is filled with his personal memorabilia.

 

 

 

Long Bien Bridge. If you are interested in exploring Hanoi’s architecture, you should visit the Long Bien Bridge. Built by French architects in 1899, this steel bridge is one of the most famous in Hanoi. It played an important role during the Vietnam War and is now a spot of historical importance. The bridge is best visited in the evening when it is illuminated against the inky Vietnamese sky, providing a perfect photo opportunity.

 

Tran Quoc Pagoda. Located on an island in the middle of West Lake, this is the oldest Buddhist temple in Hanoi, built in the 6th century. The stupa here is a signature spot and has 11 floors filled with statues covered in sparkling gemstones. It is a peaceful and serene place that provides a much-needed break from the hustle and bustle of the city.

 

 

Temple of Literature. Dating back to 1070, it is one of the most famous places in Hanoi. The complex includes the Lake of Literature and the Stele of Doctors, featuring 82 carved blue stone turtles, which are considered holy creatures in Vietnam. The temple is dedicated to Confucius and was the site of Vietnam’s first university. The temple is a beautiful and tranquil place that offers insight into the country’s history and culture.

 

 

National Museum of Vietnamese History. Built in 1925 as a school during the French colonial period, this museum is an elegant mix of Chinese and French designs. You can explore galleries dedicated to Vietnamese history, from the Dong Son culture to the Champa and Khmer kingdoms, the French colonial period, and the Vietnam War. It is an excellent place to learn about the country’s history and culture.

Vietnam travel tips

No trip to Hanoi would be complete without trying some of the local food.

• Bun Cha – one of the most famous dishes in Hanoi, a traditional dish of barbecued pork served with rice vermicelli. Locals claim that you can find one of the best places to try this dish in Hanoi at Bun Cha Nem Chua Be Dac Kim.

 

 

 

 

 

 

• Try a Banh Mi Perhaps one of the most famous sandwiches in the world is Banh Mi, or Banh My as it is spelled in Hanoi, and is not to be missed when you are in Vietnam. This sandwich is a mix of French elements from Vietnam’s colonial past as well as delicious local ingredients. This means that you can enjoy a soft French baguette which is spread with pate and topped with coriander, carrot and chilies. The fusion of the different elements is simply delicious and Banh Mi 25 is one of the most famous spots in the city to sample a toothsome sandwich.

• Pho is one of the most iconic Vietnamese dishes and has become increasingly popular worldwide. While there are different variations of pho across Vietnam, Hanoi is known for its unique take on the dish. Pho Hanoi is made with a clear, light broth and thin, flat rice noodles. The broth is typically simmered with beef bones, charred onion, ginger, and other herbs and spices, resulting in a fragrant and delicate flavor. The beef used in Pho Hanoi is traditionally sliced thinly and added to the soup raw, where it cooks through in the hot broth. This results in tender and flavorful beef that pairs perfectly with the light and refreshing broth.

Vietnam travel tips