Hanoi City Guide

The abundance of cultural spots means that many tourists flock to the city of Hanoi of Vietnam. There are parks and gardens where you can stroll around and explore the exotic wildlife on offer. The amusement parks, zoos and festivals are great for visitors who wish to delve into the vibrant activities within the city. There are also a number of historical buildings which are perfect for people who want to soak up the Vietnamese culture and learn more about the city.

Cultural Attractions

The One Pillar Pagoda is one of the most popular attractions within the city. It is a replica of the building that existed in 1049 and was destroyed in 1954. The refurbishment centres on one concrete pillar that combines the remnants of the old building. Locals believe that praying in this pagoda will bring well-being and fertility, as this is still as active religious establishment it is advisory that you wear modest clothes during your visit.

If you want to visit somewhere unique and away from the usual destinations, the Ngoc Son Temple is the perfect place to go. The Temple dates back the 18^th Century and has a distinct French influence within its architecture. Its backdrop is also breathtaking as it is surrounded by Vietnamese wildlife due to its position on an island in the Hoan Kiem Lake.

Urban attractions

The Ho Tay Lake Water Park is perfect for young families and thrill-seeking tourists. There are 12 slides that are a variety of sizes, so are suitable for all different age groups. There is also a wave-making pool which makes you feel as though you are in the sea, and a floating tube lake where you can relax and bob on top of the water. There are also temporary amusement parks that pop up during the tourist season. The carnival rides and foods are perfect for a day trip for the whole family.

As a result of Vietnam’s French influence during the 19^th Century, there are elements of Western culture throughout the central areas of Hanoi. You can find music clubs and bars during the night time hours – these establishments play a variety of eastern and western music and stay open until the early hours. You will also find cinemas and western theatres within Hanoi; the European influence will add a cultural richness to your Vietnamese experience.

Parks and Gardens

The Botanical Gardens (Vuon Bach Thao) is an estate which concentrates on documenting and experimenting with exotic plants and wildlife. The park is another area of Hanoi that is influenced by Europe as French landscape artists designed the area in 1890. There are two lakes among the expanse of greenery, and clusters of local trees which provide shade on a warm day.  The garden is filled with bright and bold colours as there are many displays of vibrant and exotic flowers.

Thu Le Park houses a variety of wild animals that roam free around its vast green fields. There are monkeys, cats and elephants to spot as you stroll around the walkways. This place is also perfect for plant lovers as well as animal lovers due to the abundance of Vietnamese trees, plants and flowers on show.

 

5 Day Weather Forecast for Hanoi