Vietnam’s capital city, Hanoi, is one of the oldest capitals of the world and is a big city filled with countless stories. It has weathered a long and sometimes tumultuous history reflected in the many Chinese, French and other Southeast Asian influences in its architecture. Take yourself back in time and really delve deep into Hanoi’s history with a trip to these sites!
Thăng Long Imperial Citadel
First built in 1010 in the Ly dynasty, this UNESCO World Heritage Site served as the seat of the royal court of Vietnam all the way till 1810, when the Nguyen dynasty decided to move the capital to the city of Hue. Throughout the 19th century and the following period of French colonialism, much of the site was left in varying degrees of ruin.
The more prominent Flag Tower of Hanoi is one of the few structions with the Citadel grounds that remained unspoiled by the years of colonialism and war, so it’s definitely a landmark for you history buffs to check out! Other structures that are still relatively intact include the Doan Mon gate, the steps of Kinh Thien palace and Princess Palace. There is also an on-site museum with some archaeological findings on display for you to get a better insight into the significance of the place.
Address: 19C Hoàng Diệu, Điện Bàn, Ba Đình, Hà Nội 100000
Opening Hours:
Tuesday - Sunday: 8am - 5pm
Admission:
Adult: VND 30,000
Children under 15: Free
St. Joseph’s Cathedral
St. Joseph’s Cathedral, or “The Big Church” as locals affectionately call it, is the oldest cathedral in Vietnam. It was first opened in 1888, built on the grounds of the sacred Bao Thien Pagoda, and is now the Headquarters of the Archdiocese of Vietnam, which serves the 6 million or so Catholics in the country. The church is rich in history, and has stood still amidst the two wars fought in Vietnam’s recent past. At some point, the church was also used to hide Vietnamese revolution soldiers!
Some of the cathedral’s most eye-catching features are its stained glass windows and the twin bell towers, which were inspired by their counterparts at the Notre Dame de Paris. For those of you who want to have a look at the interior of the church, do look out for the mass schedules that are posted outside - there are sessions every day - and be sure to dress more modestly or formally if you’re attending!
Address: 40 Nhà Chung, Hàng Trống, Hoàn Kiếm, Hà Nội 100000
Temple of Literature
Built as a university in 1070, the Temple of Literature is one of Hanoi’s most photographed attractions, and is also one of the best examples of traditional Vietnamese architecture. It was erected by Emperor Le Thanh Tong to honour the Chinese philosopher Confucius, with the layout based upon the famous philospher’s birthplace, and the temple itself is lined with many trees that provide natural shade - great for students of the old days to study under!
Though it is called a temple, this site is more of a study, as opposed to anything overtly religious. Take a slow stroll through the grounds and have a look at the many inscriptions around the temple that are a true ode to education, culture and literature!
Address: 58 Quốc Tử Giám, Văn Miếu, Đống Đa, Hà Nội 100000
Opening Hours:
Summer: 8am - 4:30pm
Winter: 8am - 5:30pm
Admission:
Adult: VND 30,000
Children under 15: Free
Perfume Pagoda
While it is widely believed to have been constructed in the 1500s, legend has it that the temple itself was actually discovered by a revered Buddhist monk, who was meditating, more than 2000 years ago! The Perfume Pagoda is a vast complex of temples and shrines built into the limestone Huong Tich mountains. A major annual religious festival is held on the Pagoda grounds, and it draws many Vietnamese worshippers from all across the country each time. Though the Perfume Pagoda had suffered some damage in the years of French rule, recent restoration in the 1980s and 1990s have helped to spruce up the grounds greatly.
While you’re there, check out the various stalactite and stalagmite formations in the cave and follow the locals in earning some good luck by rubbing these formations! The Perfume Pagoda is about a 1.5 to 2 hours drive from Hanoi, but also has plenty of other attractions such as Thien Son Pagoda, Thuyet Kinh Cave and Vong Temple. Make sure to wear a comfortable pair of walking shoes, as there’ll be plenty of walking involved!
Address: Hương Sơn, Mỹ Đức, Hanoi 100000
Hanoi Old Quarter
Hanoi’s major commercial district boasts a strong history as well, with many Buddhist temples and rustic colonial architecture that hint at the area’s long-standing importance. The different streets in the Old Quarter are named after the original businesses that constitute them, though these businesses have mostly changed with the modern times. Some shops continue to sell traditional, old-timey products like tin goods and paper votives, so you can still observe what Vietnamese customs are like.
Visit Bach Ma Temple, thought to be Hanoi’s oldest temple, which was built in 1010 and originally situated in the mountains before being moved to its current location in the 18th century. The temple still attracts many worshippers, so you can get a good glimpse of locals practicing their faith. If you’re still hanging around at night, do make sure you check out the night market, which runs for 3km and consists of at least 4,000 food stalls and souvenir shops selling a myriad of Vietnamese trinkets!
Hanoi Opera House
Also known as the Grand Opera House, this venue has a distinct French architectural design. It was erected in 1911 by two French architects, Broyer and V. Harley, and took a total of 10 years to construct. During the colonial period, the Opera House showcased many Italian and French operas that were performed for a mostly French audience. Corinthian pillars and colourful domes and murals are what impress many of its visitors, alongside its French neoclassical front facade.
In 2011, the Opera House was designated as a National Relic, cementing its status as one of the most important historical and cultural places in Vietnam. Apart from operatic and symphonic performances, the Opera House is also home to the National Ballet, which stages both Vietnamese dance and Western performances. Get your dose of art and history right here in this majestic place!
Address: 01 Tràng Tiền, Phan Chu Trinh, Hoàn Kiếm, Hà Nội 100000
Presidential Palace Historical Site
Conveniently situated in downtown Hanoi, there are multiple historical attractions for you to visit while you’re on the Presidential Palace grounds. The Presidential Palace was built in 1900 by French architects for the French Indochina Governor. Up till today, political gatherings are still held in the Palace, so you’ll only be able to visit the well-maintained gardens and fruit groves.
Though the Presidential Palace was intended to be Ho Chi Minh’s residence, he had refused to live in the European-style palace and instead had constructed his stilt house, which you can also find nearby the Palace. While you’re there, make sure to check out the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and One Pillar Pagoda, as they are all only a couple of minutes away on foot, for an enriching historical experience!
Address: Số 2 Hùng Vương, Ngọc Hồ, Ba Đình, Hà Nội 118708
Opening Hours:
Monday - Friday: 7am - 4pm
Admission: VND 25,000
With its long history, Hanoi has many other places that stand as symbols of the past. While these 7 are our top picks, you should definitely visit more places if you have the time! Perhaps embark on some full or half-day sightseeing tours so you can get a local’s point of view on the importance of all these sites to Hanoi and Vietnam; check out some of these tours right here on Native!
