What are the best tourist attractions in Hanoi? – Discover true Vietnamese culture! 

The capital city of Vietnam dates back some 1,000 years and merges the nuances of old-world charm with that of a progressive and diverse culture that continues to entice and enthral the senses of intrepid vacationers. Penned down below is a list of tourist attractions well worth investing in the next time you head over to this part of Southeast Asia.

Dong Xuan Market

The largest public market in Hanoi is the ever-busy setting of Dong Xuan Market. Located along Dong Xuan Street in the Hoan Kiem District, patrons of this marketplace will enjoy ample opportunities to not just get their hands on apparel, accessories and distinct souvenirs but also to meet and greet beaming vendors eager to strike up that perfect deal. On the ground floor is the wet market that showcases a different form of ‘busy’ where you can come into contact with all kinds of exotic produce.

Hanoi Old Quarter

Hanoi Old Quarter Night view | Image via flickr

Fondly termed the ‘Old Quarter,’ the Hanoi Old Quarter is a moving medley of narrow lanes & streets that are literally packed to the rafters with examples of colonial architecture that will be hard to miss out on as you move along. Serving as one of the finer places to visit in Hanoi, the said region in the city is often seen swarming with cars, motorbikes, cycles and scooters which move around local traders busily attending to their respective businesses. Found in the same district as Dong Xuan Market, the Old Quarter is best experienced on foot accompanied by your trusty brolly and camera of course.

Perfume Pagoda

Encircled by lush foliage that appears to stretch out for miles on end, free-flowing streams, curved roofs and stone steps that bring to light the sheer prowess of the ancient builder, the Perfume Pagoda is next on the list of best tourist attractions to visit when on Hanoi. Although you will need to make the journey by car or bus which will last for around 2 hours at best, the experience of visiting a sacred shrine found at the foot of the Son Mountains will leave you feeling on top of the world. Dating far back to the 15th century, the Perfume Pagoda forms part of a series of similar Buddhist temples that were carved into mountains complete with alleyways that would easily confuse those not too familiar with its setting.

Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum

Perceived as a nation’s tribute to its greatest son and leader, the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum contains the preserved remains of Ho Chi Minh himself, encased in a glass case. Located in Hanoi’s Ba Dinh area, the mentioned monument was modelled on the mausoleum of Vladimir Lenin and can be visited on all days excluding Fridays and Saturdays from 8 am to 11.30 pm. Moreover, those staying at Pan Pacific Hanoi will be encouraged to visit this landmark which doubles as a tourist hotspot and history lesson.

Imperial Citadel of Thang Long

Rising to 40 meters in the air and surrounded by well-paved walkways and immaculately positioned garden spaces, the Imperial Citadel of Thang Long retains pride of place as one of the country’s prized possessions. Having functioned as a political centre for the better part of 8 centuries, the Imperial Citadel of Thang Long is easily identified by a central flag tower. Worthy of mention is the fact that this edifice has been recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Temple of Literature

Synonymous with the word ‘serenity’ is the iconic structure called the Temple of Literature. Open daily from 8 am to 4.30 pm, the Temple of Literature was unveiled as a centre of learning in honour of Chinese scholar, Confucius. With a history of over 1,000 years, the shrine comprises several appealing aspects which range from well-manicured gardens, ornate pavilions and plenty of room to wander through.

Hanoi Opera House

An elegant ambience permeates the sublime environs of the Hanoi Opera House which stands testament to the period of colonial rule that once overwhelmed Vietnam. Found in the French Quarter, the Hanoi Opera House is where one may enjoy spectacles of varying nature that take into account musical concerts performed by renowned artists and Vietnamese opera and dance acts.