If you plan a trip to Hanoi, spare at least a couple of days to explore 9 frequently-visited sites by Hanoians.

 1. Quang Ba night flower market.

Quang Ba night flower market starts from 10.00 PM till about 5.00 AM next morning. Flowers of various colours and species from different neighboring places are brought to the market every night and from here, they are carried to every corner of Hanoi. Being a good bargainer, you’ll find yourself beautiful fresh flowers atreasonable price.

2. Old Quarter night market.

The night market in the Old Quarter of Hanoi takes place every Friday, Saturday and Sunday nights. The market is not only the place that you can purchase things at reasonable price but also a gathering destination for young people including locals and foreigners.

3. Dong Xuan market.

 

Dong Xuan market is a busy wholesale market of diversified goods. However, retailers could also come and challenge themselves by bargaining as there is a big price gap between what is told and what is sold.

4. Long Bien Bridge

 

Long Bien bridge going across Red river was built under the French colonial time over a hundred years ago. Being a witness of Hanoi’s ups and downs, especially during war time in 1960s-1970s, the bridge is now only good for bicycles and motorbikes. The bridge is also a dating place for young couples in summer breezy nights.

5. Hoan Kiem Lake

Hoan Kiem lake located in the heart of the capital city is an attractive place for visitors. People go there for not only its history but also variations of delicious dishes in the nearby area – the Old Quarter. Streets around the lake are weekly closed from Friday night to Sunday night for pedestrians. During that time, visitors have opportunities to enjoy live street music, or join some traditional games or simply deep themselves in the peaceful atmosphere.

6. Ba Dinh Square & Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum

 

Ba Dinh Square is a historical site where the first President of Vietnam, Ho Chi Minh, claimed the Nation’s independence to the entire world on September 2 nd , 1945. This is also the place where his mausoleum is located and every day, a lot of locals and international tourists come to visit. There are National’s flag put-up at 6.00 am and pull-off ceremonies at 9.00 pm that you should attend.

7. One Pillar Pagoda

Right behind Ho Chi Minh’s Mausoleum, One Pillar pagoda is one of the symbols of Hanoi thanks to its unique architecture. The pagoda was built in the 11 th century in the shape of a lotus emerging from water. You can also see the practice of Yin-yang theory in daily life.

8. St. Joseph's Cathedral

Built under the French colonialism, the St. Joseph Cathedral is resembled the Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris. It is now a place where young people gather around, enjoy a glass of green tea with lemon & ice which is in fashion today.

9. Temple of Literature

Temple of Literature which was dated back in 1070 is considered to be the first university of Vietnam. It is an educational symbol of the capital city and attracts a lot of local visitors who come and pray for examination’s good results.