Hanoi, the second-largest city in Vietnam and the capital, is rich in historical artifacts and numerous landmarks, earning the title “Land of a Thousand Years of Civilization”. The city is dotted with lakes, lush greenery, and blooming flowers year-round, which is why it is also called the “City of a Thousand Flowers”.
1. Weather
Hanoi features a mild climate with four distinct seasons: spring is warm with occasional light rain; summer is hot and rainy, often accompanied by cool breezes in the afternoons and evenings; autumn is cool and dry; and winter can be quite cold.
2. Popular Attractions
Hoan Kiem Lake: One of the main lakes in downtown Hanoi, it is long and oval-shaped. The name “Hoan Kiem” comes from a legend in which the Vietnamese ruler Le Loi received a magical sword from a divine turtle while boating on the lake. With this sword, he successfully established the Later Le Dynasty. Later, when the turtle returned to reclaim the sword, Le Loi returned it to the water. Strolling along the lakeside, you can appreciate the charm of ancient structures like the Pen Tower, Huc Bridge, and various pavilions, blending with the freshness of nature. It feels like walking through a time tunnel, where every breath is a story.
Hanoi Cathedral: The Cathedral of the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Hanoi is one of the most notable French architectural structures in the city. Built in the Gothic style popular in the 12th century and the Renaissance period, it features a solemn and elegant exterior. Inside, the intricately decorated altar, stained glass windows, and square bell tower are all worth seeing.
West Lake (Hồ Tây): The largest lake in Hanoi, West Lake is home to several ancient structures, including Tran Quoc Pagoda, Quan Thanh Temple, and Kim Lien Pagoda. You can rent a bicycle or motorbike to explore the area, and in the evening, you’ll be rewarded with some of the most beautiful sunsets in Hanoi.
Tran Quoc Pagoda: Located in Kim Ngư (Golden Fish) islet of Hồ Tây (West Lake), Tran Quoc Pagoda features a unique architectural style and is one of the most revered temples in Hanoi. Historically linked to the royal family, it served as a place where empresses participated in ceremonies and learned about Buddhism during the Ly Dynasty. The pagoda is also home to a Bodhi tree, a cutting from the original tree in Bodh Gaya, India, under which Siddhartha Gautama attained enlightenment. This tree was a gift from Indian President Rajendra Prasad during his visit in 1959.
Thang Long Imperial Citadel: As the heart of Hanoi’s millennium-old history, this site was once the royal palace of Vietnam’s feudal dynasties. Despite the passage of time and the destruction of many buildings, remnants such as the flag tower and the foundations of the Palace of Supreme Harmony can still be seen. Today, the citadel houses an archaeological museum that displays a wealth of valuable artifacts, offering visitors a glimpse into the life of the ancient Vietnamese court.
Ba Dinh Square: Located in the heart of Hanoi, Ba Dinh Square is a significant venue for gatherings and festivals in Vietnam. On September 2, 1945, President Ho Chi Minh proclaimed the Declaration of Independence here, announcing the establishment of the Democratic Republic of Vietnam (renamed the Socialist Republic of Vietnam in 1976). The square holds immense historical and political significance, witnessing many important moments in Vietnam’s history and symbolizing the national spirit of the Vietnamese people.
3. Shopping
36 Streets: It is Hanoi’s most historic quarter. It is steeped in history and consists of numerous narrow, intertwined streets, each originally named after the type of goods sold there. You’ll find streets dedicated to silver jewelry, Buddhist supplies like incense and altars, ironware, herbal medicine, bamboo products, candy, custom-made slippers, mats, lanterns, and musical instruments. Generations of artisans have lived and worked here, creating a vibrant atmosphere that showcases the rich diversity of Vietnamese craftsmanship. The area is alive with energy, where visitors can stroll along cobblestone paths, explore traditional craft shops, savor street food, buy souvenirs, and admire the well-preserved ancient architecture.
4. Food
As the capital of Vietnam, Hanoi boasts a rich culinary culture that blends traditional Northern flavors with external influences.
Bun Cha is one of Hanoi’s most iconic dishes. It consists of grilled pork, fresh herbs, cucumbers, dipping sauces (such as garlic sugar sauce, fish sauce, and chili), and a bowl of clear broth served with rice noodles. The tender meat, unique sauce, and fresh vegetables create a delightful balance of sweet, sour, and slightly spicy flavors, making it a true local specialty.
Shrimp Cakes are a signature snack in Hanoi. Made by mixing fresh shrimp paste, vegetables, and spices, then coating it in batter and frying until golden, they feature a crispy exterior and a flavorful filling, often served with a sweet and sour sauce.
Chicken Pho is another popular dish, consisting of chicken, chicken blood, and chicken intestines served with rice noodles and aromatic chicken broth. This comforting noodle dish is a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
