Dong Ba Market is one of the biggest and most chaotic marketplaces for fresh produce, street food, antiques, and local activity; while there, make sure to visit the stalls that offer items ranging from silk fabrics to handmade crafts; don't forget to grab a bowl of flavorful Vietnamese street food, such as banh mi and pho.
Hanoi's Hoang Thanh Thang Long is an ancient imperial city founded in 1010. Initially, it was built by the Zhao regime of the Tang Dynasty of Vietnam. It was later reconstructed under the Nguyen Dynasty of Vietnam. The Thang Long Citadel remains as one of the most essential buildings in Vietnamese history as it was the situs of the Vietnamese Royal Palace and state bureaucracies and a site for many important ceremonies and official events. The architectural style of Thang Long Citadel is a typical East Asian palace style that has nicely fused the three cultural elements of Vietnam, China, and France. The city houses many large buildings and gardens: palaces, temples, libraries, etc.; most noteworthy among these are the Lookout (Hau Lau) and Green Gate (Cua Bac). Thang Long Citadel was recognized by UNESCO as a World Cultural Heritage Site in 2010. Currently, Thang Long Citadel is one of the most important cultural tourist sites in Vietnam, serving thousands of tourists each year, both domestic and international. Tourists come to admire the charming old buildings within the city, to learn about Vietnam history and culture, as well as to experience several cultural performances and craft exhibitions.