Advise somethings must-do in Hanoi for your trip

Hanoi- the capital of Vietnam, is the Asian city with European characteristics with much of its French influence retaining where you could immediately fall in love with. There is tons to do in this 1000 years- old city. However with your limited time, here ore our recommendations for things to do in Hanoi that will make your trip extra special.

1. Hoan Kiem lake - the heart of Hanoi

Hoan Kiem Lake

A beautiful lake located in the Old Quarters with a lengthy history and legend about the first king of Le dynasty. Hoan Kiem Lake means “Lake of the Returned Sword”. Hoan Kiem lake is located inside the complex of Ngoc Son pagod),The Huc Bridge and Pen tower in the surroundings making a sparkling colorful nature picture. In the middle of the lake situated Turtle Tower.People say that there are very large, old tortoises living in the lake and it is lucky if you see one of them emerging from the water.

2. Trying Local Specialties in Hanoi

Trying Local Specialties

You can experience some adventurous things by eating some strange and unique dishes in there like snake meat (which is available in the form of a 14 course meal), Worm Paddies .If you have a chance you should try eating Soft Serve Cinnamon Ice Cream which is particular ice cream different from the usual supermarket, package we buy and very delicious with only about 60 cents.

Weasel coffee is the special beverage you should enjoy if you come to Hanoi especially for those who are interested in caffeine drink. It is made from coffee beans that have been carefully selected and digested by a weasel, then used to make coffee.

Of course, Visiting Hanoi is not completed without trying the street food like Pho, Bun Cha, Banh cuon..

3. Water Puppet Show - the unique art in Hanoi and North Vietnam

Water Puppet Show

Water puppet art is a long traditional cultural activity of agriculture-based citizens by the Red River in Northern Vietnam and has existed for a long time with unique features. The special element of water puppetry is the use of the water surface as a stage for performance. The show is about an hour long and takes place every evening.

Price: $3 – $5 depending on which tickets you get

4. The Temple of Literature - the first university in Hanoi and Vietnam

Temple of Literature

Temple of Literature is located in van Mieu Street, 2km west of Hoan kiem Lake. Built in 1070, it was considered as Vietnam’s first university in 1076. Over the years, many Vietnamese scholars were educated here. Nowadays, it is a popular place for upcoming college graduates to get their picture taken and the grounds are quite pretty

5. Hanoi Cooking Centre

Hanoi Cooking Centre

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Located in 44 Chau Long Street, nestled on the edge of Hanoi's famous old quarter and close to picturesque Truc Bach and West Lake, Hanoi Cooking class is a cooking school, and cafe. Vietnamese food, with it’s fresh flavors and wide variety, is quite delicious. If you want to make your own Vietnamese dishes , it is a wonderful place for you.

Price: $25-$50

6. Hoa Lo Prison Hanoi

Hoa Lo Prison Hanoi

The Hỏa Lò Prison was a prison used by the French colonists in Vietnam for political prisoners and later by North Vietnam for prisoners of war during the Vietnam War . The prison was demolished during the 1990s, though the gatehouse remains as a museum.. When you come to here, you have watch an exhibit showing the awful conditions under French colonization as well as many objects, pictures depict American soldiers in there.

Price: $1

7. Hanoi night market

Hanoi night market

Hanoi night market, also known as Dong Xuan night market, is weekly held on weekend evenings in the Old Quarter of Ha Noi. It’s a very interesting place that all visitors should not miss if they have chance to travel to Hanoi. This market spreading from Hang Dao Street to Dong Xuan market creates a busy and crowed walking street. Local people and visitor come here for strolling, sight-seeing and shopping. You can find everything here from clothing, souvenir to recreation or food. 

8. Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum in Hanoi.

Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum

Located in Central Ba Dinh District, Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum was built to dedicate the leader of the country where visitors come to express their admiration and gratitude to the national hero.

Vietwind Travel hope that we can become a partner in your trip to explore Hanoi.

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 Source: Vietwind Travel