13 Famous Landmarks in Hanoi

As the cultural and political center of the country, Hanoi boasts countless beautiful landmarks with unique features that attract visitors. VNTRIP.VN introduces you to the most famous landmarks that you must not miss when visiting the capital city of Hanoi.

Famous landmarks in Hanoi

1. Turtle Tower – Hoan Kiem Lake

Standing at the top of the list of must-visit landmarks in Hanoi is Hoan Kiem Lake. The lake, located at the city's center, is often referred to as the 'heart' of the capital. Hoan Kiem Lake is also known as Sword Lake, tied to the legendary sword returning tale of King Le Loi to the Golden Turtle. The moss-green lake mirrors the ancient willow trees, graceful willow clusters, the Post Office building, and the high-rise buildings surrounding it against the blue sky.

In the heart of the lake, on a small green lawn, stands the solemn Turtle Tower casting its shimmering reflection on the water. Around the lake is where various cultural activities, events, fireworks, and vibrant artistic performances of the city take place. This is undoubtedly an ideal location to book a hotel near Hanoi's Old Quarter for convenient dining, transportation, and exploring the Old Quarter and Hoan Kiem Lake.

2. Ngoc Son Temple

The vermilion Thê Húc Bridge gracefully leads to Ngoc Son Temple, concealed behind ancient banyan trees. Constructed in the 19th century, the temple exemplifies space and architectural creativity. Harmoniously blending with the lake, Ngoc Son Temple, along with Hoan Kiem Lake, forms a unified Heaven-Human architectural ensemble, creating a harmonious space between nature and humanity.

Locals and many tourists often step into Ngoc Son Temple, nestled by Hoan Kiem Lake, to offer incense and pray for good fortune. Together with Hoan Kiem Lake, Turtle Tower, Thê Húc Bridge, Pen Tower, and Ink Slab, Ngoc Son Temple has become a cluster of historical relics and scenic spots in Hanoi with distinctive and representative architecture that visitors cannot miss when exploring the capital.

3. Hanoi Cathedral

Situated in the Old Quarter of Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi Cathedral (also known as St. Joseph's Cathedral Hanoi) is an ancient cathedral with typical European Gothic architecture. Beyond being a place of worship, this remarkable cathedral attracts many tourists for sightseeing. Upon visiting, you'll feel as if you're standing in a vast ancient castle adorned with intricately carved golden motifs on wooden reliefs and a vibrant system of stained glass windows.

Furthermore, many young Hanoians gather in this area on weekends to meet friends and enjoy cheerful conversations over glasses of 'Cathedral Lemon Tea.'

4. Hanoi Opera House

Located at the intersection of Trang Tien and Ngo Quyen streets, Hanoi Opera House was built in the early 20th century and has since been a foremost architectural and cultural landmark in the capital. Designed in classical French style resembling European theaters, it has become a cultural hub hosting various events and large-scale performing arts activities in Vietnam. Visit and stroll around the courtyard in front of the opera house to fully appreciate every angle of this grand architectural masterpiece.

5. Imperial Citadel of Thang Long – Hanoi Flag Tower

Situated on Hoang Dieu Street, the Imperial Citadel of Thang Long is a world cultural heritage linked to the history of Thang Long – Hanoi during the Ly, Tran, Le, and Nguyen dynasties. It is a monumental architectural work with significant historical and archaeological values. Among the ancient structures inside the Imperial Citadel, the most prominent is the Hanoi Flag Tower (also known as Ky Dai Hanoi), closely associated with many historical events of the nation. When the August Revolution succeeded, the red flag with a yellow star on the Hanoi Flag Tower flew proudly in the capital sky for the first time.

With vast space and a lush, expansive landscape, the Imperial Citadel of Thang Long is also an ideal location where many visitors come to take graduation photos and capture beautiful moments.

6. Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum

Located next to the historic Ba Dinh Square, where President Ho Chi Minh proclaimed the Declaration of Independence founding the Socialist Republic of Vietnam. The eternal resting place of the great leader is surrounded by a green garden with four seasons, radiating a refreshing shade.

7. West Lake

West Lake is the “lungs” of the capital with a lake area of over 500 hectares and a 17km long lakeside road. Take a motorbike ride around the lake to admire the romantic scenery along the clear lake, with a gentle breeze and visit some attractions near the lake such as Nhat Tan cherry blossom village, Nghi Tam village, Quan Thanh Temple, ...

Many seek out West Lake as a serene retreat amidst the bustling city, where they can leisurely stroll and enjoy the fresh air in the morning, witness the lake turning into vibrant shades of red and orange as it reflects the evening sunsets, or indulge in the renowned West Lake shrimp cakes. There are plenty of beautiful view hotels around West Lake, ideal for fully experiencing your vacation. Thus, it has become a familiar and integral part of the spiritual life of the capital's residents.

There are numerous West Lake hotels with beautiful views that are perfect for you to fully enjoy your vacation. Therefore, this place has become a very familiar and connected destination in the spiritual life of the city's people.

8. Tran Quoc Pagoda

Located on Thanh Nien Street, Tran Quoc Pagoda is a prominent landmark with ancient architecture, solemn and harmonious with the elegant landscape alongside the vast lake. Built since the 6th century and being one of the oldest temples in Hanoi, over a thousand years of existence, Tran Quoc Pagoda not only preserves its unique architectural values but also witnesses the ups and downs of national history. With these values, it is a place that not only attracts Buddhist followers but also welcomes many visitors to explore and enjoy the beautiful scenery.

9. One Pillar Pagoda

Situated within the Ho Chi Minh Museum, the One Pillar Pagoda is a renowned Hanoi landmark that attracts many tourists to the capital. The pagoda features a unique architecture with a square structure perched on a stone pillar amidst a green lotus pond, resembling a lotus blossom emerging in the middle of the lake.

Explore the enchanting Văn Miếu Quốc Tử Giám

Văn Miếu – Quốc Tử Giám stands as an unmissable ensemble of scenic and historical landmarks in Hanoi. This complex includes Văn Miếu (dedicated to Confucius), Quốc Tử Giám (the first university in Vietnam), and Hồ Văn, the Imperial Garden, Khuê Văn Các, and more.

The heritage site boasts distinctive ancient architecture harmoniously blending with the lush foliage of centuries-old trees, creating a unique and remarkable scenery for visitors.

Today, Văn Miếu – Quốc Tử Giám serves as a hub for cultural, scientific, and educational activities. Especially during Tet (Lunar New Year), traditional events like requesting calligraphy and folk games attract both locals and international visitors.

For a convenient visit to this famous historical site, consider booking a hotel in Đống Đa district.

11. Ô Quan Chưởng

As the sole surviving gate of ancient Thăng Long Citadel, Ô Quan Chưởng not only showcases architectural beauty but also echoes the heroic imprint of history. Built in 1817, initially named Ô Đông Hà, the two-story gate follows the iconic watchtower design typical of the Nguyễn era. Later renamed Ô Quan Chưởng, it honors the courageous sacrifice of Nguyễn dynasty officials and soldiers during the resistance against French colonial forces in the battle for Hanoi.

Today, Ô Quan Chưởng stands on the street of the same name, a bustling area with diverse commercial activities. Despite historical ups and downs, the gate has undergone multiple renovations, preserving its ancient moss-covered charm. Though weathered, it remains a historical landmark in Hanoi, embodying the memories of a bygone era.

12. Long Bien Bridge

Long Bien Bridge, constructed from 1899 to 1902, stands as the first steel bridge spanning the Red River. Once the world's second-longest bridge, it earned the moniker 'Hanoi's horizontal Eiffel Tower'.

Long Bien Bridge is intertwined with the heroic chapters of two significant national resistance movements, witnessing the transformative journey of the country post-unification. The bridge is not just a historical relic but also an emblem of resilience, beauty, and cultural development in Hanoi's future progression.

13. Ancient Co Loa Citadel

Cổ Loa Ancient Citadel is situated in the area of Cổ Loa commune, Đông Anh district. Constructed from the 3rd century BCE, Cổ Loa Citadel is the largest ancient citadel in our country, boasting a grand scale and structure. It is closely associated with the legendary crossbow of King An Dương Vương and the tragic love story of Princess Mị Nương – Trọng Thủy.

Every year on the 6th day of the first lunar month, the people of Cổ Loa organize a festival to commemorate King An Dương Vương's contributions to the nation. Therefore, if you want to explore the full cultural beauty and the people here, you should visit Cổ Loa during this time.

Above are 13 of the most famous scenic spots in Hanoi chosen by many tourists to visit when traveling to the capital. Besides, there are still many other fascinating tourist destinations in Hanoi waiting for you to discover. Don't forget to book cheap hotels in Hanoi on Vntrip!

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