Hanoi Old Quarter: A Charming Historian of Trades
Hanoi Old Quarter used to be the urban hub and trade center of the feudal capital before Hanoi. Stroll around architectural charms while shopping at stores or in markets. There are specialty streets for beer, coffee, jewelry, or stop by the popular water puppet theatre.
West Lake: Tranquility Amid Temples and Pagodas
West Lake is the largest freshwater lake in Hanoi with a most tranquil atmosphere. While strolling around, visit a mythical princess at Tay Ho Temple, or the God of the North Star at Quan Thanh Temple. But first, read about the fox and buffalo and other names for the lake.
Tran Quoc Pagoda: The Oldest Sacred Ground in Hanoi
Tran Quoc Pagoda is the oldest Buddhist site in Hanoi dating to 541 CE. It maintains the principles of Buddhist architecture despite many restorations. The famed Lotus Tower makes it one of the most picturesque pagodas in the world. Its Banyan Tree was gifted from Bodh Gaya.
Imperial Citadel of Thang Long: Vestiges of a Bygone Hanoi
The Imperial Citadel of Thang Long are the historic remains of early Hanoi. Travel through vestiges of time and 1 300 years from the foundations of Vietnam, to the Le Dynasty, and a modern day Defense HQ. Sites include citadel gates, Hanoi Flag Tower, and archeological digs.
Hoan Kiem Lake: An Iconic Legend of Hanoi
Turtles are legendary in Vietnam. One story involves Hoan Kiem Lake also known as Lake of the Returned Sword. Find out why and discover the history of Hoan Kiem back to the 15th century. Visit Ngoc Son Temple and Huc Bridge, or take part in fun activities with locals.
Hoa Lo Prison: Vietnam’s Infamous Fortress of Horror
Hoa Lo Prison or Maison Centrale is an infamous place of horrors from French Colonialism to the American War in Vietnam. Witness history through diorama displays of torture, ghastly living conditions, and original torture implements. See first hand how inmates survived.
Ba Vi National Park: The Getaway from the Heat of Hanoi
Ba Vi National Park is ideal for escaping the heat and is just outside Hanoi. The vibe here is excellent for some easy trekking through the cool pine forest. Visit the Cactus Garden, the Mexican sunflower field, old French ruins, and the Upper Temple while you’re there.
War Remnants Museum: A Moving Experience in Ho Chi Minh City
War Remnants Museum – voted yearly among the top interesting museums by Tripadvisor. Explore a confronting and graphic perspective of the Vietnam War. The eerie, enduring effects of Agent Orange aren’t for the faint-hearted. The museum location has its own story to tell.
Ho Chi Minh City Museum or Gia Long Palace: Historical Insights
Ho Chi Minh City Museum is nothing fancy, but well worth a visit if you’re interested in curious artifacts related to trades, science, or commerce. It’s a nice place for a quiet day reviewing Saigon’s past, and it’s within easy reach of the more popular attractions.
