Overview
Hanoi is Vietnam’s capital and its cultural and political centre. Around Hoan Kiem Lake sits the city’s soul — Ngoc Son Temple and the scarlet The Huc Bridge are almost every traveller’s first photo. The Old Quarter’s 36 streets buzz with cafés, craft lanes and night markets; west of the lake, the Temple of Literature recalls a thousand years of scholarship.
Must-see
Hoan Kiem Lake / Ngoc Son
The city’s green lung and spiritual landmark — magical at dawn and dusk.
Old Quarter (36 Streets)
Motorbikes and shophouses in a lively maze made for walking and snacking.
- Hoan Kiem Lake, Ngoc Son Temple and The Huc Bridge
- Temple of Literature (Văn Miếu) — Vietnam’s first university site
- Old Quarter: weekend walking streets, Dong Xuan Market, bar street
- Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and One Pillar Pagoda (check opening hours and dress code)
- Train Street — watch safely and follow local rules
Food highlights
- Hanoi pho (Phở Hà Nội): clear broth, restrained garnishes
- Egg coffee (Cà phê trứng): rich, frothy and iconic
- Fresh spring rolls and grilled pork vermicelli (Bún chả)
