How to visit Hanoi ?

Introduction

Hanoi is a city full of charm and history. The capital of Vietnam offers a unique atmosphere where modernity and tradition blend harmoniously. The narrow alleys of the Old Quarter form a true labyrinth, where it's a pleasure to get lost and discover small traditional shops, colorful temples, and colonial houses. The tea stalls set up on the sidewalks are also a real institution, where locals gather to chat and enjoy tea while watching the street life unfold.

But Hanoi is not limited to its historic center. The city also boasts many museums, lush green parks, and peaceful lakes, ideal for relaxation and reflection. Hoan Kiem Lake, for example, is a favorite spot for both locals and tourists, where one can admire the red bridge and the Ngoc Son Temple.

In short, Hanoi is a city that leaves no one indifferent. With its historical heritage, renowned cuisine, and unique ambiance, it is truly worth discovering during a stay in Vietnam.

Exploring the Old Quarter on Foot

Discovering Hanoi’s Old Quarter on foot is an exceptional experience for any visitor to this vibrant and colorful city. As you stroll through its narrow and winding streets, you’ll admire traditional old houses that are a true source of pride for the locals. You can also enjoy local street food at the many small restaurants and stalls that line the sidewalks. The city’s culinary specialties are rich and diverse, ranging from rice noodles to French-style baguettes and hearty meatball soups.

And of course, you can’t miss Ta Hien Street, famous for its lively bars and restaurants where you can sip a cold beer and meet friendly, welcoming locals. Don’t hesitate to immerse yourself in the local culture and discover all that Hanoi has to offer.

Visiting the Temples, Pagodas, and Lakes in Hanoi

Hanoi is a city rich in history and culture, which is beautifully reflected in the many temples and pagodas scattered throughout the city. Visiting these places of worship offers a unique and enriching experience. Among the most popular sites is Tran Quoc Pagoda, located on a small island in the middle of West Lake. Over a thousand years old, this pagoda is considered one of the oldest and most beautiful in Vietnam.

Another fascinating place to visit is Hoan Kiem Lake, or the Lake of the Returned Sword, which gets its name from a legend in which an emperor gave a magical sword to a dragon to help defeat invaders. The dragon later returned the sword to the emperor by dropping it into the lake. Today, the lake is a favorite relaxation spot for Hanoi’s residents, who come to jog, cycle, or simply take a stroll along its peaceful paths.

Lastly, West Lake is also a popular destination for walking, especially at sunset when the city lights reflect on the water’s surface. Surrounded by temples, gardens, restaurants, and food stalls, it is an ideal place to unwind and enjoy Hanoi’s lively evening atmosphere.

Exploring the Colonial Streets Built During the French Occupation

This walk takes you on a journey through Hanoi’s former French Quarter and its most iconic buildings. Starting in 1873, the French occupied the city, which later became the capital of French Indochina from 1902 to 1953. From those 80 years of occupation, many significant traces remain—particularly in the architecture of the colonial quarter.

The origins of this neighborhood date back to the concession granted to the French on the right bank of the Red River at the very beginning of their conquest. It was located approximately southeast of the current Opera House. From this concession, the French gradually expanded their influence toward the Citadel.

In their desire to recreate their metropolitan lifestyle and modernize Hanoi, the French colonialists developed numerous infrastructures for entertainment, administration, education, and religion. One of the main figures behind this transformation was Paul Doumer, Governor-General of Indochina from 1897 to 1902. While some of these structures have disappeared, others have withstood the test of time and now serve new purposes.

Many of them can still be visited today, offering a chance to immerse yourself in this lesser-known yet fascinating chapter of Hanoi’s past.