I : See IT
- Mausoleum & Its Surroundings:
The Mausoleum stands proudly and conveniently next to Ba Dinh Square. This is the resting place of Vietnam's most beloved uncle and founder of the Vietnamese communist party, Mr. Ho Chi Minh. Inside the Mausoleum people can pay their respects to him as his body rests peacefully in a glass tomb. So peacefully, you might even mistake his body for a wax doll. As a result of many people pilgrimaging to visit Uncle Ho, the lines are quite long yet move quickly as you are not allowed to halt the flow of traffic. Take note that the Mausoleum is closed to visitors during the months of October and November. The dress code and rules for entry are also very strict; you must wear shirts with sleeves and long trousers or you will be turned away. No shorts, cameras, hats or bags are allowed. No exceptions, not even if you put on your best smile.
77 Ngoc Ha St, Ba Dinh | +84 4 3845 5128 | closed Mon & Fri 8.00 - 10.30 | <1, D4>
The Mausoleum is also the center of a magnificent complex that contains the Ho Chi Minh Museum, rich with fascinating historical scriptures, propaganda, and remnants from the Vietnam War. Also within the complex is the One Pillar Pagoda, offering nice photo opportunities, unique architecture, and an interesting legend of how it was built based on a dream that King Ly Thai To once had. While wandering, you will find yourself lost in the architectural beauty of the surrounding buildings and villas.
19 Ngoc Ha St, Ba Dinh | +84 4 3845 5435 | Mon & Fri 8.00 - 72.00, Tue-Thu, Sat & Sun 8.00 - 77.00 | <2, D4>
Being that it was the first university in Vietnam, built in 1076, you may be able to guess why it was named The Temple of Literature. Equipped with
open courtyards, beautiful gardens, loads of history and an air of holiness, it becomes clear why so many Vietnamese locals and students flock here, drawing in crowds of tourists as well. The best time to pass through this educational sanctuary is between April and November when students flock here for their graduation photos.
58 Quoc Tu Giam St, Dong Da | +84 4 3823 5601 | 7.30 - 17.30 | <3, E4>
The Ethnology Museum is potentially one of the most impressive museums in Hanoi. You can see the museum on your own, except you will not get i the same experience as you would with a guide explaining the history behind displayed objects, documents, and stories only a local would know. When hiring a guide, you can either play it safe and book a guide in advance, or you can wing it at the entrance and grab one of the guys out front eager to show off his knowledge for a few extra bucks. For a truly full experience we recommend a call or visit to Hanoi Imperial Hotel. <4, C5>
Hanoi Imperial Hotel | 44 Hang Hanh St, Hoan Kiem | +84 4 3933 5555 everytime.
Designed by French architect Gustave Eiffel, designer of the Eiffel Tower, Long Bien Bridge is Hanoi's oldest bridge and stretches across the Red River. This ancient landmark doesn't take much time to see, but it is worth a visit if you happen to pass it. If you can't make it in the morning, the bridge is as beautiful to visit around sunset time. Try the grilled corn being sold curbside, which is harvested right below the bridge.
Tip! As you walk along the bridge, I you can find the stairs leading down under the bridge and follow a small road that runs along the river to a little beach, nice green landscape, and a quaint place for a quick escape. Another alternative for the more adventurous one would be to hop on a motorbike and as you cross the bridge take a left at the end of it and continue straight. As you are on this dyke road, try out one of the streets to your left and get the chance to see another side of Hanoi. <5, F2>
As legend has it, an ancient turtle lives in Hoan Kiem Lake and is the same turtle-god that gave Le Loi a sword to defeat the enemies from China and free Vietnam. The locals believe to this day that the same turtle is still living in the water and every now and then it appears. If you have time to spare, have a look out on Hoan Kiem Lake and see if you're lucky enough to catch the only one left alive in the lake amongst four specimens in the world. Although, don't waste too much time waiting for this creature to surface, as you can see another turtle preserved inside the Ngoc Son Temple in the middle of Hoan Kiem Lake. <6, F4>
Hanoi's lively Old Quarter is comprised of 36 streets packed with shops selling a variety of different goods. Each street was originally named after its primary product or service being sold, but over time some things have been replaced with others. This is a must-see part of Hanoi and nearly impossible to miss. Take in the unique personality of this area, especially when lit up at night and see if you can guess the names of the streets based on the items being sold. <7, E3>
II : Do IT
1: Early Morning Exercise
The locals love waking up early before sunrise for their morning exercise. Head over to Hoan Kiem Lake around 6 am and enjoy the peaceful flow from groups of people practicing Tai Chi. For those who wish for something more upbeat in the early hours of the morning, you can take part in a group dance exercise that may be just as much fun to watch as it is to do. You will see for yourself why. <8, F4>
2: Cooking Classes
Join one of the Street Eat tours and enjoy an amazing food journey with a professional chef while you discover the wonders of Vietnamese street food and learn to cook Vietnamese- style. A great way to impress people back home!
Hanoi Cooking Center | 44 Chau Long St, Truc Bach, Ba Dinh | +84 4 3715 0088 | <9, D3>
3: Hanoi on Wheels
Whatever you fancy there are unique and extraordinary ways to explore the city. How about catching a Cyclol? It used to be the most common mode of transportation for locals, although over time it has sadly become more of a tourist attraction. These cycle taxis will take you around town for some photo ops.
For a truly unique tour in the city get in touch with Asiana Travel Mate (also see Around Tay Ho (West Lake) under Good Day). If you're in search of something less strenuous, we would like to suggest you call Sofitel Metropole's concierge (+84 4 3826 6919) for a chauffeur driven Citroen from the good old days.
Hanoi Imperial Hotel | 44 Hang Hanh St, Hoan Kiem | +84 4 3933 5555 everytime.
4: Pool Hang & Golf Hits
The sun is out and you're craving a suntan, but your hotel doesn't have a pool? No problem. Make like the Hanoi expats and xe om over to the Thang Loi Hotel or Hanoi Club where anyone is welcome for a small penny. If you've had enough of the sun, head up to the driving range deck and shoot some balls across the lake as you enjoy one of few beautiful views in the city.
Thang Loi Hotel | 200 Yen Phu St, Tay Ho | +84 4 3829 4277 | <10,C3>
Hanoi Club | 76 Yen Phu St, Tay Ho | +84 4 3823 87 75 | <10,C3>
5: Village Bicycle Tour
Say goodbye to the noisy traffic and bicycle towards lush green rice fields, vegetable plantations and a famous snake farm where you'll be welcomed by heaps of snakes. Here you'll have the chance to touch, catch and even eat the snake. If you're not sure how to get there, you can book a guide with the best ones in town, Hanoi Imperial Hotel Tours.
Hanoi Imperial Hotel | 44 Hang Hanh St, Hoan Kiem | +84 4 3933 5555 everytime.
III: DARE IT
1: Motorbike Madness
If you found crossing the street to be child's play and are looking for something a little more pulse raising, we would suggest you rent a motorbike and drive through the city. Feel the adrenaline rush as you roll the bike out onto the busy street and become one with the chaotic flow. Contact our friends in Flamingo. They will hook you up safe and sound for the drive.
Flamingo Travel | 66 Dao Duy Tu St, Hoan Kiem | +84 4 3926 0938 | +84 912 214 554 | 8.30- 19.00
IV: TASTE IT
1: Pho
Pho is Vietnam's national dish and is simply noodle soup in a complex herb and spice broth with beef (bo) or chicken (ga). Pho can be found nearly anywhere, however where to find great pho is valuable information. See below for our favorites. Tip! Pho is best for breakfast or late night; in fact, many pho stalls will open from 6 to 8 am and re-open again at 9 or 10 pm.
Pho Gia Truyen | 49 Bat Dan St, Hoan Kiem | <12, E3>
Pho 10 Ly Quoc Su | 10 Ly Quoc Su St, Hoan Kiem | <13, E4>
Pho Hang Dieu | 1 Hang Dieu St, Hoan Kiem | Best for chicken pho (Pho Ga) | <14,E3>
2: Le Club & Le Beaulieu
Both are Meccas for mouthwatering culinary experiences and fabulous ambience. We love their brunch at Le Beaulieu , which is without a doubt the best brunch in Hanoi. If you have the afternoon free we highly suggest the chocolate buffet along with afternoon tea at Le Club in the Sofitel Metropole Hotel. Swanky and sophisticated, you will think you died and went to chocolate heaven.
Sofitel Metropole Hotel | 15 Ngo Quyen St, Hoan Kiem | +84 4 3826 6919 |15.00 - 17.30 Chocolate Buffet, Mon - Sat 11.30 - 14.45 Lunch, Sun 12.00 - 16.00 Brunch | <15, F4>
3: Kitchen
Serving up western dishes in a creative fashion, this place offers fresh ingredients and a hip,cozy atmosphere with their red and white-checkered tables and great outdoor ambiance. Enjoy a fantastic salad or sandwich or try what is considered to be the best Mexican food in town. Their margaritas by the pitcher are to die for!
30 To Ngoc Van St, Tay Ho | +84 4 3719 2679 | <16,B3>
4: Saint Honore
This French-owned place transports you to a busy little bistro in Paris Perfect for breakfast or brunch, Saint Honore has an in-house bakery serving tasty quiches, pastries, crepes, and sandwiches. Another draw is their well-made coffee and cappuccinos, homemade chocolate, wines, ham, and homemade cheeses on display for purchase.
5 Xuan Dieu St, Tay Ho | +84 4 3933 2355 | <17, B3>
5: Tet Decor
If you like coffee, all-day breakfast, art and music, go here! Old-fashioned, rustic ambiance with handcrafted art pieces and furniture for sale make this cafe visualls stunning and a sheltered getaway from the noisy city. This hidden gem may be a challenge to find, but once you do, you will thank yourself for not giving up on the search. The Tet Decor organic way of thinking brings only the freshest ingredients to simple recipes for wholesome home cooking.
Villa 25, Area 1.3ha, Dang Thai Mai St, Tay Ho | +84 4 3718 5705 | closed Mon | <18, B4>
6: Puku
Located on a cross street, this international cafe is great for lounging on comfy sofas and people watching as you observe the street action. Whether you want a coffee in the morning, a beer in the afternoon, dinner, or an after-hours drink at one in the morning, Puku is the spot to go. This street is also known as Food Street, as the food stalls here are amongst few to be open 24/7.
16-18 Tong Duy Tan St, Hoan Kiem | +84 4 3938 1745 | <79, E4>
7: Ming Palace
Ming Palace Restaurant at the Sofitel Plaza Hotel has a delicious dim sum buffet. While it is open everyday, we suggest going on a Sunday when the Peking duck is being served. Make sure you haven't eaten, as this is a fat-man experience!
2nd FL Sofitel Plaza Hotel | 1 Thanh Nien St, Ba Dinh | +84 4 3823 8888 | <20, D3>
8: Tan My Design Cafe
Tan My Design is a cafe inside the very famous silk and fashion shop with the same name. The cafe serves tasty snacks and displays the work of a number of Hanoi's most famous artists. Artwork is available for sale at the cafe. It is a great meeting hub for friends, shoppers and visitors or staff to give advice and information about places to shop, eat and relax. Why not combine a day of shopping with your brunch?
61 Hang Gai St, Hoan Kiem | +84 4 3938 1154 | <21, E3>
9: Cafe Du Lac
Alter a late night out, rest might be just what the doctor ordered, but for those that want to keep the good times rolling, continue the party at InterContinental Westlake Hotel.
They’ll have a live band singing while you enjoy six different styles of food. On top of that you can get a free flow of Champagne, wine and beer. Go on, you deserve it!
1ST FL InterContinental Westlake Hotel | 1A Nghi Tam, Tay Ho | +84 4 6270 8888 | Sun 11.30 - 15.00)| <22, C2>.
V: Drink It
1:Local Beverages & Sweet Liquid Desserts
As you stroll the streets of Hanoi you will notice plenty of silver carts with Vietnamese signs offering drinks and liquid sweet desserts Is well worth a try.
The top two drinks are: Sugar Cane Juice (Nuoc Mia) and Young Corn Milk (Sua Ngo). As for the famed Vietnamese dessert, called Che, the colors and varie'ty of flavors are limitless, Che refers to any sweet beverage, dessert soup, or pudding, and is typically a three color drink or a ten ingredient soup. Another must try for the person with a sweet tooth is Tao Pho, a soy, sugar and ginger soup, a tad spicy, sweet and belly warming (also good for digestion).
2: Casa Italia
Cafe, wine bar, Italian museum, art space and language center all under one roof makes this place very interesting. Enjoy a nice drink after you've soaked in some Italian history in the form of slick Vespas.
18 Le Phung Hieu St, Hoan Kiem | +84 902 255 333 | <23, F4>
3: Joma Bakery Cafe
After a pit stop at St. Joseph's Cathedral you may to switch to something a bit more modern. How about a conteemporary and cozy cafe nearby, serving everything from tasty western sandwiches and salads, to ice cream, cinnamon buns and carrot cakes.
22 Ly Quoc Su ST, Hoan Kiem | +84 4 3747 3388 | <24, E4>
Discovery Hanoi City Map
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