Unique and worth experiencing: Hanoi

Imposing temples, picturesque citadels, sacred monuments and unique theaters – the choice of attractions in Hanoi is unlimited. No wonder, since Vietnam's capital can look back on an eventful history spanning more than 1,000 years. Get to know some of the most beautiful and popular highlights of the Southeast Asian metropolis below! VIETNAM VISA ONLINE has researched for you!

For comprehensive planning information including where to stay, how to get around, visa requirements, and detailed itineraries, be sure to read our complete Hanoi Travel Guide 2026 alongside this attractions spotlight.

The Hanoi attraction with a relax factor

Hoan Kiem Lake and the Temple of Jade Mountain are undoubtedly one of the absolute must-sees in the city. It is located in the center and is therefore particularly easy to reach. As an oasis of calm, this Hanoi attraction not only attracts tourists, but also locals who want to relax from the hustle and bustle of the big city. You can reach the pagoda of the temple via a typical Vietnamese and distinctive red bridge called Huc Bridge.

Mystical Hanoi: The Vietnamese folk hero Le Lok – who fought against the Chinese some time ago – is said to have found his sword in Lake Hoan Kiem (while fishing). When he returned to the lake after the war, a turtle emerged from the water and took the sword. The animal is said to be still in the lake today. Seeing them is considered a good omen – turtles stand for a long life in the land of smiles.

Let the dolls dance!

The next Hanoi attraction is already waiting for you not far from Hoan Kiem Lake: the Water Puppet Theater. The humming music and the sometimes almost squeaky tones may not be everyone's taste. Nevertheless, the special art with a long tradition is a excellent opportunity to get to know the culture of the country. This sight is recommended in every (!) Travel guide.

The spiritual Hanoi attraction

The Tran Quoc is another pagoda that is worth visiting. It is located on a small island in West Lake and extends over eleven floors or at a height of 15 meters. Here you run into monks and other believers who keep stopping to say a prayer. A place can hardly be more spiritual!

Note: Unlike the Temple of Jade Mountain, entry to this Hanoi attraction is free.

This old town has it all!

If you want peace, clarity and fresh air, you are in the wrong place in Hanoi's old town – it is extremely loud and hectic here. However, there is no better way to get to know the life of the locals! Here, one food stall follows the other, whose delicious smells mix with the exhaust fumes of the thousands of scooters.

A special feature of this district is the division into 36 streets. These are all named after a single item (e.g. bamboo or footwear). Whoever speaks and reads Vietnamese has a clear advantage here.

The typical Vietnamese tube houses are equally remarkable and therefore a Hanoi attraction. These are usually not wider than three meters, but are up to 60 meters long or deep. Why did the Vietnamese build or have they built? Quite simply: In earlier times, taxes were measured based on the width of the shop front.

Note: Most tube houses in Hanoi's old town consist of a shop (front), a workshop and a living area.

Information on visiting the (old) city

If you are visiting Hanoi's attractions for the first time, a rickshaw tour is recommended. You walk quickly here. In addition, crossing the streets in the capital quickly becomes an adventure.

And after the turbulent sightseeing in the metropolis of 8 million people head to one of the countless spas. Here you can massage your feet for little money and let yourself be pampered in other ways.

A train as an attraction in Hanoi

Hanoi Street, also located in the old town, is known all over the world. Twice a day the train crosses the narrow road to the south of the country. If the train starts, the residents have to collect their belongings within a fraction of a second. Otherwise they are crushed under the steel wheels of the means of transport.

What you can hardly imagine: In the meantime, the street is much more than a Hanoi attraction. This means that there are various restaurants and cafés here that invite you to feast in a fancy setting.

Tip: If you want to experience the train racing through, you have to be at the tracks around 3 or 7 PM. So that you don't set off unnecessarily, it is advisable to check with your accommodation beforehand whether the train is actually running on the day.

Feast until you drop

Hanoi has many attractions to offer, which are far from being all here. Finally, we would like to recommend that you fully enjoy the city's street food offerings. The infinite number of food stalls offer a culinary variety that is second to none. And don't worry: the stands are perfectly hygienic! So, off to Hanoi and Vietnam's capital to get to know and love!

Ready to explore Hanoi? Our comprehensive Hanoi travel guide provides everything you need to plan your trip including accommodation recommendations, transportation tips, food guides, and sample itineraries for 2-7 day visits. Let's explore this further.

Your Journey Awaits

Armed with this knowledge, you're well-prepared to navigate Vietnam with confidence and ease. Remember that the best travel experiences come from balancing careful planning with spontaneous discovery. Stay flexible, keep an open mind, and embrace the unexpected moments that often become your favorite stories. Your Vietnam adventure is closer than you think. Take the next step by securing your travel documents, booking your flights, and getting ready for an unforgettable journey through one of Southeast Asia's most captivating destinations.