Hanoi is a vibrant city that seamlessly blends history, culture, and modernity. From serene lakes and bustling night markets to historic citadels and iconic landmarks, there are countless places to visit in Hanoi. To make the most of your trip, consider visiting Hanoi between October and April when the weather is pleasant and the humidity is low. However, be prepared for higher tourist numbers in December and January.
Before embarking on your journey, obtaining travel insurance is essential to ensure coverage in unforeseen circumstances. You will receive coverage for medical expenses, trip cancellations, and more. This will protect your investment if you need to abruptly cancel your trip or face any hurdles during your stay in Hanoi.
Top Places to Visit in Hanoi
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Hoan Kiem Lake
Hoan Kiem Lake is one of the best places to visit in Hanoi. Also referred to as Sword Lake, this natural freshwater lake is located in the heart of Hanoi, Vietnam. It gained its name from the legend of King Le Thai To returning a magical sword to the turtle deity. Situated at the intersection of popular streets in the Old Quarter, it offers a convenient and culturally rich destination for tourists.
Things to Do at Hoan Kiem Lake
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Nestled around Ngoc Son Temple, the picturesque lake boasts a captivating scene with its iconic red bridge. Capture breathtaking views and create lifetime memories.
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On the northern shore lies a tiny island hosting Ngoc Son Temple. Visit the temple and marvel at its architecture.
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Hanoi Night Market
The Hanoi Night Market is among the best Hanoi places to visit. It is located in the Hanoi Old Quarter and is a vibrant attraction that opens from 6:00 pm to 11:00 pm. Visitors can arrive around 8:00 pm to fully experience the bustling atmosphere. To conveniently access the market, staying in accommodations within the Hanoi Old Quarter is highly recommended, allowing for a short walk to the market.
Things to Do at Hanoi Night Market
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Explore the vibrant atmosphere while shopping for clothes, handicrafts, accessories, and souvenirs.
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Treat your taste buds to affordable and delectable Vietnamese dishes like bloating fern-shaped cakes, Hai Phong bread, grilled sausages, and bacon.
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Imperial Citadel of Thang Long
The Imperial Citadel of Thang Long is one of the excellent places to visit in Hanoi. It shines as a UNESCO World Heritage site. Dating back to the 7th century, the citadel allows visitors to delve into 1,300 years of Vietnamese history. Through interactive games and performances, visitors can uncover the captivating stories behind the relics and artefacts, creating an unforgettable exploration of Hanoi’s heritage.
Things to Do at the Imperial Citadel of Thang Long
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Explore the site and admire its prominent structures, such as the Kinh Thien Palace, Princess Pagoda, and the North Gate.
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Check out the Flag Tower and explore the Kinh Thien palace.
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Temple of Literature
The Temple of Literature, one of the best places to visit in Hanoi, is located at No. 58 Quoc Tu Giam Street in Hanoi’s Dong Da District. It holds significant cultural value in Vietnam. Established in 1070 by Emperor Ly Thanh Tong, it was initially built to honour the revered Confucius and later evolved into the country’s first university, known as the Imperial Academy. Despite the challenges of war, the temple has preserved its architectural splendour and cultural richness.
Things to Do at the Temple of Literature
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Admire the charming pavilions, halls, and statues set amidst serene ponds and gardens, creating a picturesque ambience.
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Admire the 82 Stelae resembling a turtle.
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Visit the museum at the temple.
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Lotte Observation Deck
The Lotte Observation Deck is one of the best Hanoi places to visit. Situated in the Ba Dinh, The Observation Deck, located on the 65th floor, provides unrestricted views of the city both day and night. The thrilling experience begins with a high-speed elevator ride, and brave visitors can even capture photos looking down at the city through the glass skywalks.
Things to Do at Lotte Observation Deck
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Indulge in hot coffee from the deck’s cafes while taking in the scenery.
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Explore the enchanting Bamboo Path and immerse yourself in its mystical ambience.
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Check out attractions like the Sunset Lounge View Terrace.
Best Time to Visit Hanoi
The ideal time to check out Hanoi places to visit is from October to April, offering pleasant weather and low humidity. However, the peak months for tourism are December and January. December to February is the coldest period, with temperatures between 10 and 20 degrees Celsius. March to May, particularly April and May, is a great time to visit Hanoi. There will be mild rainfall and clear skies.
Travel Insurance for Hanoi
Travel insurance comes highly recommended for visitors to Hanoi as it provides financial protection against the potentially high costs of medical treatment and other unforeseen circumstances. While Vietnam no longer requires proof of travel insurance for entry, investing in a policy is sensible. Private medical facilities in Hanoi can be expensive. Moreover, your domestic health insurance may not provide adequate coverage. Similarly, costs due to trip cancellations, flight delays, and other unanticipated situations can leave you stranded in a foreign country. And this is where travel insurance can save the day.