what to do in hanoi, What are the attractions to visit while traveling in Hanoi?

Suggested Activities or Attractions in Hanoi: What to Do?

With its ancient culture and picturesque European-style architecture left by the French colonial government, with great street performances, and street food are all part of the fun to be had while visiting Vietnam's capital city, Hanoi.  Here are a few don't-miss items for your travel agenda to Hanoi:

1. Hanoi's old town area:  Take your time to walk or cycle through Old Town area, one of the historic center part of Hanoi, where narrow streets carry the names of items sold in those areas. It's a fun area to shop, sample local eats, and feel the laid-back energy of the city.

2. Huanjian Lake and Yushan Temple:  The picturesque lake is isolated at the center of Hanoi with parks and pedestrian walkways surrounding the lake. On an island in the lake, is the Ngoc Son Temple with a red bridge to the lack, and is a quiet haven to relax away from the city.

3. Ho Chi Minh Memorial Hall:  Salute the Mausoleum of Ho Chi Minh, founder of modern Vietnam.  The Hall is also a complex with the Ho Chi Minh residence, the presidential palace, and the One Pillar Pagoda a famous Buddhist temple.

4. Confucian Temple:  This beautiful and peaceful complex is the first university in Vietnam, established in 1070 AD, and learn Confucianism along with exquisite traditional Vietnamese architecture.

5. Street food is Hanoi:  While in Vietnam, you need to try the street food.  River noodles (the soup noodle), baozi tea (grilled pork with rice noodles), Vietnamese sandwiches (banh mi) and lastly get the egg coffee out to drink inside Dongxuan Market or the near old city area.

6. Water puppetry:  Water puppetry is a unique traditional cultural entertainment that will be missed if not experienced. The Shenglong Water Puppet Theater is the best place for this cultural experience.

7. West Lake: The largest lake in Hanoi and home to lots of cafes, restaurants, and Tran Quoc Pagoda, one of the oldest pagodas in Vietnam for a more relaxed experience.

8. Museum: If you’re a history fan, the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology will give you perspective on the different ethnic groups of the country, while the Vietnam War Museum (also known as the Military History Museum) gives you perspective on the countries military history.

9. Longbian Bridge: Walk or bike along this former railway bridge that overlooks the Red River. It provides a great view of the city and is a symbol of resilience of the people in Hanoi.

10. Fanwu Old Street: This street in the old city area is called "Beer Corner," and at night it provides lots of action as people enjoy cheap beer, street food, and life around them.

When going to temples and other practicing religions, please remember to be forceful and respectful to local customs. Have a great time in Hanoi!