With its wide boulevards, ancient pagodas and tree-lined lakes, Vietnam’s capital is also the country’s most atmospheric and beguiling city. There is an energy and charm here arising from the genteel mix of French colonialism and Asian grace and tradition.
Enjoy a showcase of synchronised t’ai chi at Hoan Kiem Lake; stroll around the lively Old Quarter with its narrow streets with traders and hoards of scooters weaving in and out, and don’t miss the chance to see a water puppetry show at the Thang Long Puppet Theatre. Other places to visit include the Imperial Citadel of Thang Long, the Perfume Pagoda temple complex and the Hanoi Opera House in the heart of the French Quarter.
Tell us more about your Vietnam travel plans, and we'll create a tailor-made holiday, just for you.
POPULAR ITINERARIES FOR HANOI
Grand Tour of Vietnam
Vietnam &
Angkor Wat
Grand Tour of Vietnam with Nam Hai
THINGS TO SEE AND DO IN HANOI
Hoan Kiem Lake
Hoan Kiem Lake, which translates to "Lake of the Returned Sword," is named after a famous Vietnamese legend involving Emperor Le Loi. According to the story, in the early 15th century, Le Loi was given a magical sword by the gods, which he used to drive the Chinese invaders out of Vietnam. After his victory, while boating on the lake, a giant golden turtle surfaced and took the sword, returning it to the gods. This legend gives the lake its name and a deep cultural significance.
Ngoc Son Temple
Ngoc Son Temple, or "Temple of the Jade Mountain," is dedicated to several important figures in Vietnamese history, including the national hero Tran Hung Dao, who is revered for his leadership during the wars against the Mongol invasions in the 13th century. The temple complex includes a beautiful pagoda, a pavilion, and several altars, each ornately decorated and imbued with historical and religious significance.
Visit the Old Quarter
Wander through the narrow, winding streets of Hanoi's Old Quarter, a vibrant maze where history and modernity blend seamlessly. The Old Quarter, known locally as "36 Streets," is the beating heart of Hanoi's commercial life, with each street traditionally devoted to a particular trade. This bustling area has been the centre of commerce for centuries, retaining much of its original charm while adapting to the needs of contemporary life.
Temple of Literature
Dedicated to Confucius, the Temple of Literature is Vietnam’s first university and a symbol of Hanoi’s rich educational heritage. Founded in 1070 by Emperor Ly Thanh Tong, it has been a place of learning for scholars for centuries, serving as a centre of Confucian education and a testament to Vietnam's longstanding reverence for knowledge and culture.
Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre
Experience the unique and mesmerising art form of water puppetry at the Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre. This traditional Vietnamese performance dates back to the 11th century, originating in the Red River Delta region. The art form was initially performed by villagers in flooded rice paddies, celebrating festivals and communal activities with these enchanting shows.
Visit the Old Quarter
Admire the stunning French colonial architecture of the Hanoi Opera House, a symbol of the city’s colonial history and cultural sophistication. Built in 1911 by French architects inspired by the Palais Garnier in Paris, the Hanoi Opera House is an exquisite example of neoclassical design, boasting grand pillars, ornate balconies, and intricate stonework.
TOP LUXURY HOTELS IN HANOI
Sofitel Legend Metropole
Hanoi | 5 star
La Siesta
Hanoi | 4 star
Speak to a Vietnam Expert to Start Planning your Tailor Made Holiday
Interested in booking a tailor-made holiday to Vietnam or have any other questions? Give us a call on 01442 617777 or fill out our contact form below.
WHY BOOK WITH TAILORED JOURNEYS?
AUTHENTIC EXPERIENCES
Every holiday is tailor made to the finest detail to match your preferences
We offer unique experiences to help create truly rewarding memories
Your interests are our priority and we handpick activies accordingly - whether its cycling through rice fields in Vietnam or a special dinner under the stars for your honeymoon
HANDPICKED HOTELS
All hotels are handpicked based on individual specifications
The hotels we choose are ones where we have either personally stayed or visited
We make sure that you will have some of the most incredible views from your hotel that will surely stay in your memory forever
LOCAL KNOWLEDGE
All of us here are from, have lived and/or worked in your chosen destination
Our local, qualified guides are courteous, knowledgeable and always willing to go the extra mile for every Tailored Journeys client
We have built special relationships with incredible people who help us bring an authentic element to our holidays
SUPPORT & TECHNOLOGY
You will have the same specialist look after your trip from start to finish
You will have the support of a local office in each destination and access a 24 hour mobile number here in the UK
You will also have access to an interactive app so you can view your itinerary offline