📍25 Best Must-Visit Places To Visit In Hanoi, Vietnam Outside Old Quarter. (Activities & Attractions 2024.)

WONDERING WHAT THE BEST PLACES TO VISIT IN HANOI ARE?

Established as the modern reunified capital of Vietnam after the conclusion of World War II in 1945, this current day and age isn’t the only time Hanoi has held the country’s government seat of power. Home to the famous Old Quarter, which reigned as the nation’s political centre for nearly 800 years between 1010 and 1802 until Hue temporarily took the title, this ancient place is steeped in more than a millennium’s worth of history and heritage, making its age-old streets a much sought out part of the city to seek out and explore.

But while no visitor should miss out on what Old Quarter has to offer, it shouldn’t be the only part of the city you visit because there are so many more places to visit in Hanoi than just what resides within those 36 streets north and west of Hoan Kiem Lake, as I discovered visiting this destination city during my 4-week trip through Vietnam.

From the poignant Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum Complex honouring the man of the same name and the country’s first prime minister to the sombre Vietnam Military History Museum and its wartime artifacts to the spectacular views from the Lotte Tower Observation Deck, the capital has no shortage of outstanding things to do.

1. Learn About Vietnam’s Greatest National Hero.
Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum Complex.

No trip to Hanoi is complete visiting the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum Complex. The perfect first stop, especially for first-time travellers, this unmissable attraction holds profound historical and cultural significance to the Vietnamese people as it beautifully honours their beloved late leader, Ho Cho Minh, who was their first president (1945-1969) and revolutionized the country by leading the communist North to victory against the American-backed South during the Vietnam War of (1955-1975), which is all on exquisite showcase throughout this vast complex.

Note: As it is a national memorial, they have strict rules for entry such as wearing respectful clothing that covers shoulders and kneecaps.

1. Ho Chi Minh Museum.

Opened in 1990 to celebrate the anniversary of what would have been Ho Chi Minh’s 100th birthday, one of the most unmissable places to visit within the precinct is the Ho Chi Minh Museum. Architecturally designed to resemble a huge white flower, it is home to over 2,000 priceless historical documents, artifacts and exhibits, it offers an in-depth exploration into the remarkable life and revolutionary accomplishments of Ho Chi Minh, with a particular emphasis on the Vietnamese War, where his efforts and subsequent victory led him to become the national hero and one of the greatest and most influential communist leaders of the last century.

2. Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum.

The most poignant building in the complex is unquestionably the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum itself. During the Vietnam War, the country was divided into the communist North and the American-backed South. Before the war was over and the nation reunified, their beloved leader, whose birth name was Nguyen Sinh Cung, passed away, meaning that those who lived in enemy territory while there was still a divide but had hoped to one day meet him would no longer be able to, which is why the exquisite monolith marble structure was built with his embalmed remains perfectly preserved inside.

For the Vietnamese, it is a national place of worship, holding deep significance to their and their nation’s identity residents come from all over to visit this shrine and pay respects to the man they affectionately call Uncle Ho, who valiantly won their country, and their way of life back, in person, making visiting it as a tourist one of the most moving and unique places to visit in Hanoi.

3. Ba Dinh Square.

The large open space in front of the mausoleum is Ba Dinh Square. The site holds historical significance as it is where Vietnam’s first Independence Day from the French was declared and celebrated by Ho Chi Minh on Sept 2, 1945. Today, the grounds are a beautiful pathway to the shrine and feature 79 green French Marigold trees for each year the first president lived while serving as a reminder of the nation’s arduous yet heroic resistance to foreign invaders.

4. Presidential Palace. – $.

The place where all the decisions were made. The Presidential Palace is one of the most striking buildings in the complex with its distinctive French architecture, vibrant yellow exterior and exquisitely modelled interior, with one room, in particular, regally honouring Ho Chi Minh.

The palace was supposed to be where he lived and worked during his tenacity as president. But he was a simple man who instead chose to live in the garden in a building called House 54, which is also at the complex, so it ended up being just used for meeting important delegations and for Vietnamese young children to come and visit their beloved Uncle Ho.

These days, it’s primarily used for welcoming foreign national officials and governmental workers visiting the country along with allowing tourists to see inside its opulent halls.

5. House No. 54.

One of the things that made Ho Chi Minh such a respected person was his thought process, keen sense of morality and his preference for a simple lifestyle. This is why, despite being the leader of Vietnam and given the right to live and work out of the luxurious halls of the Presidential Palace, he instead chose to spend his days garden in a small 3-room building called House No.#54.

He was so inclined to live basic that even most of the facilities inside this dwelling were gifts he received from people worldwide, which he refused to replace for their sentimental value, which is now are source of fascination for tourists.

6. Ho Chi Minh’s Stilt House. – $.

Another home of Ho Chi Minh’s on display at the complex is his original stilt house. The architecture is a classic Vietnamese design, often seen in the country’s northern mountains, which he chose specifically to remind of the tough days he spent prepping taking on the American-backed south.

Like House No. #4 where he spent the four years before moving in here, the meagre size of this place and the few facilities it has furthermore reflects the president’s tenacity for simplicity despite being the man with all the power to make the executive decisions for the country.

Be sure to also check out the nearby pond, where anabas and golden carp live. If you clap your hands, they will come to the surface, which is what Uncle Ho reportedly used to do, and a tradition that the groundskeepers have endearingly kept alive in his honour.

7. One Pillar Pagoda.

One of the most interesting structural curiosities to see at the mausoleum complex is the One Pillar Pagoda, which has been given the title of Asia’s most unique architecture for a building of this kind thanks to the singular concrete post it stands on in the middle of the pond, designed to resemble a lotus flower. It was built in 1049, under the reign of King Ly Thai Tong to pay homage to the Goddess Of Mercy after he dreamt of her giving him his first son which came true not long later.

Unfortunately, that 900-year-old structure was sadly destroyed and mined by French soldiers, but Ho Chi Minh commissioned a new, albeit much smaller one based on the original after Vietnam gained independence, so visitors could continue marvelling at its strange design.

8. Discover Vietnam’s Wartime History.
Vietnam Military History Museum.

Going hand in hand with the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, dedicated to Vietnam’s first president who did the lion’s share to lead his country to victory is the Vietnam Miltary History Museum, which primarily showcases the charge he valiantly led, and honouring the armed forces and their allies in their courageous efforts to eradicate the country of invaders which eventually led to the reunification of their country.

However, it’s not the only pivotal moment in the nation’s turbulent history highlighted at the museum, as before the Vietnam War, the people were fighting to seek independence from the French in a 9-year conflict between 1946 and 1954 that’s known as the First Indochine War, which they were also were able to accomplish.

Inside, explore the photographic memories of those who experienced the trials and tribulations first-hand, see the faces of the bravest heroes, admire the exquisite artistry of the murals and statues, and marvel at the arsenal of weapons that killed thousands and injured thousands more.

Outside is one of my favourite courtyard displays I’ve seen at a museum. The command tower was interesting to walk through with its noticeably low ceilings. But it was the planes I appreciated seeing the most, especially the pile of shattered aircraft parts artistically put together to serve as a poignant memorial and vivid look at the destructive reality of war.

Note: You have to pay extra to take a camera and photos…

9. Get A Glimpse Into What’s It’s Like Being Imprisoned.
Hoa Lo Prison.

Another place of deep historical significance is the Hoa Lo Prison, Vietnam’s largest French colonial prison. Built in 1896, the lock-up facility went through two distinct eras. The first was when the country was still part of French Indochina, where it was originally called Maison Centrale, which it still has the signage for, it was a brutal place to be a prisoner. Once regarded as unescapable, the Vietnamese who were locked up were political prisoners including famous revolutionaries fighting for independence during the war were dealt extremely cruel punishment, and appalling conditions and some were even horrifically decapitated.

After winning its independence in 1954, it changed hands (and name) from the French to the Vietnamese where it was then used to hold several American pilots during the Vietnam/American War, including future senator John McCain. In the 20 years since that war ended., it was used to keep political insurgents detained before closing permanently as a prison in 1990.

Today, only a small part of the original 12,000msq establishment remains, having mostly been demolished to make way for modern development. But what’s left is why it’s one of the most unique places to visit in Hanoi. Walking the halls, seeing the artefacts in the exhibits and artistic depictions of the two different eras and the inhuman devices and apparatuses that were used for punishing the prisoners such as the guillotine and the cachot chamber gives visitors a glimpse into unimaginable living conditions of what it was like being imprisoned here for both the Vietnamese and the Americans during the country’s most turbulent times.

10. See The City From Up Above.
Lotte Tower Observation Deck.

A lot of attractions in the capital are older than the dinosaurs, so for a refreshing change of pace, a visit to the Observation Deck (65th floor) of the modern Lotte Tower is a must. Enjoy magnificent 360-degree views of Vietnam’s 1000-year-old city and look for the charming contrasts between the old world and the new, and marvel at the gorgeous architecture of the beautiful buildings influenced by the Chinese and numerous more intricately built by the French from up above.

Along with the spectacular views of this vast and immeasurable city that are breathtaking during every hour of the day, what makes it my favourite place to visit is not just that it has an atmospheric bar with LED bunny ornaments, but it also has wings and a neon love heart over a glass platform so you can make memorable photos looking like you’re an angel floating above the city or “Love is in the air” making it one of the most unique things to do in Hanoi.

11. Spend An Unforgettable Night Watching A Live Performance.
Hanoi Opera House.

If you fancy a show, then a visit to the Hanoi Opera House in the French Quarter (southeast of Hoan Kiem Lake) is a must. It’s the largest performance theatre of its kind in the country, this visually striking building with classic European architecture is one of the capital’s most captivating landmarks with its interior just as lavish and regally opulent as its exterior.

This popular attraction is also a huge drawcard for its cultural shows that showcase the country’s vibrant heritage developed from over thousands of years of existence and that of Au Lac, which was what the land was called before it became Vietnam since at least the third century BC that takes place within its grand performance hall complete with classical chandeliers.

There’s also been a new addition to the lineup, the recently added Garden Music Programme, which uses the building’s many front balconies as a stage to perform live classical and modern music shows to an outdoor seating area for one of the best experiences visitors can have in Hanoi at night.

12. Discover Vietnam’s 900-Year-Old First Seat Of Power!
Imperial Citadel Of Thang Long Relic.

One of the most incredible cultural heritage sites in Hanoi not to miss out on is the Imperial Citadel of Thang Long. This beautiful piece of UNESCO World Heritage Listed architecture, which serviced the political epicentre in Vietnam’s ancient capital (1010-1802), is 900 years old, having been built in the 11th Century under the Ly Dynasty to signify the monarchy’s movement towards independence.

But the foundations date back even earlier than that, having been built on the foundations ofa Chinese fortress that dates back to the 7th century. That’s over 13 centuries of the country’s history tied up in this one place, which is endlessly intriguing to walk around, to say the least, knowing that so many of Vietnam’s power plays happened within these walls. In fact, It’s such a source of ongoing fascination that archaeological digs are still happening there to unearth the mysteries of the past. While visitors can’t get in on that, it’s still high up on the best places to visit in Hanoi because of how old and influential this place was on the country’s evolution.

Note: Two other places nearby associated with the Citadel is the neighbouring Kinh Thein Palace, which was the former royal residence of the king and Quan Chong Gate (Hanoi Old City Gate), 2km east at the top of Old Quarter, is the last remaining gate of the original 16 that once protected the citadel and is worth a look if you’re nearby.

13. Explore Pre-Vietnam’s Capital.
Co Loa Citadel Relic.

Going back even further into the annuals of history is the Co Loa Citadel. Located 20km out of the city on the northern side of the Red River, this relic of the ancient world has been holding the title of Vietnam’s largest citadel since the third century BC, covering an area of around 500ha! Only, back then, it was known as Au Lac. Basically, before Hanoi was the first capital of Vietnam, Co Loa was the capital of the Au Lac Kingdom. And that’s what makes it one of the most unique places to visit in Hanoi. This place significantly pre-dates the country and is even considered to be its birthplace so it goes without saying that it holds significant cultural value to the Vietnamese people.

Today, it’s a source of architectural and archeological intrigue with its existing walls showcasing an unusual spiral layout and the relics on display, such as ornate statues, primitive weapons, and other incredible artefacts that were uncovered on site, giving visitors an endlessly intriguing glimpse into what the place looked like well over a 1000 years ago.

14. See Hanoi’s Oldest Buddhist Temple.
West Lake Lake Tay Ho & Tran Quoc Pagoda.

For a change of scenery, West Lake (Lake Tay Ho) is a great place within the city to swap the chaotic built up streets for something more open and airy, and one attraction not to miss is the incredibly picturesque Tran Quoc Pagoda, which is like the Ngoc Son Temple on Hoan Kiem Lake in Old Quarter is in the middle of the lake, accessible by bridge. Only its much more larger and holds more beauty and grandeur than its more iconic cousin.

It’s significantly older too, having stood at this spot for 1,500 years, which means it was there long before Vietnam was even Vietnam, when it was known as Au Lac and the aforementioned Co Loa Citadel was the capital, predating just about everything else in Hanoi, so it goes without saying it’s the old Buddhist temple in the country, making this stunning still-standing relic of the ancient world a must visit.

Note: Be sure to also check out the John McCain Memorial, which is on the bridge just south of the pagoda.

15. Delve Into The Country’s Political History.
National Museum Of Vietnamese History.

For a more generalised look at Vietnam’s evolution, the National Museum Of Vietnamese History is also another must-visit attraction. Consisting of two separate buildings built in 1917 and 1926 and sharing the same beautiful Indochinese architecture, combined they form the oldest museum in Hanoi.

The one at No 1 Trang Tien Street goes back beyond before Vietnam existed to a time when it was Au Lac and sees the country through its countless eras, including the various changes of kings, dynasties and empires, before concluding with the end of imperialism with the Nguyen Dynasty in 1945, having won their independence.

Meanwhile, at the building on 216 Tran Quang Khai Street is the nation’s most recent history, with the First Indochine War against the French, and the Second Indochine War, also better known as the Vietnam War pitting the North Vietnamese against the South, with the U.S. infamously intervening the focus of this subsection of the museum.

And with over 20,000 relics, statues, and documents rare and artefactual finds of national significance to see on display between the two, it’s a great insight into the influences that made Vietnam, the bustling South East Asian country it is today.

16. Explore Vietnam’s Cultural Heritage.
Museum Of Ethnology.

One of the most fascinating facts about Vietnam is that it is comprised of 54 ethnic groups and all of them are on display at the Museum Of Ethnology. Highlighting the cultural aspects of the people’s everyday lives, customs and traditions, this fascinating attraction helps visitors understand what makes these different communities unique from one another.

The indoor exhibition hall contains over 15,000 objects and artefacts distinguishing each group, along with a research centre, library and auditorium, while the outdoor area displays is of particular interest with architecturally accurate full-scale replicas of the various traditional homes that have become synonymous with the Vietnamese landscape, surrounded by beautiful gardens typical of what the tiny villages would, creating a visually authentic scene.

This is an especially great attraction for those interested in seeing and understanding these beautiful rural communities and their traditions, but are unable to visit and or all during their trip, especially since there are so many to see and they are a fair way out.

17. Explore Hanoi’s Oldest University.
Temple Of Literature. – $.

Another interesting historical relic from the time of kings and empires is the Temple Of Literature. Founded 1000 years ago in 1070 to originally worship the famous Chinese philosopher, Confucius, it eventually became the first university of Vietnam, where many renowned scholars were taught across its 700 years of operation.

Having seen many wars and still maintaining its architectural old-world beauty, it’s a lovely place to walk around and see statues, monuments and ponds that this educational precinct has held for over a millennium.

18. See The World’s Longest Mosaic.
Hanoi Ceramic Mosaic Mural.

For those who love artwork, or are looking for a fun photo op, put visiting the Hanoi Ceramic Mosaic Mural on your itinerary. This beautiful public roadside art piece was built on the 1000th anniversary of the capital being founded and is 1.7m tall and stretches for almost a whopping 4km, making it the longest mosaic in the world!

Divided into several parts, the stunning work showcases the most significant moments of Vietnam’s storied history, from the time of kings and empires to the ancient and modern warfare it faces to today’s harmony and peace along with the most iconic aspects of its culture and 54 ethnic groups that make it such a unique and contrasting country. like the distinct architecture of Indochinese and French influence, and by contrast the towering skyscrapers, the traditional grass hats, rice fields, cyclos, motorbikes and so much more fused into this incredible piece.

19. Bat Trang Pottery Museum & Ceramic Village.

For a look at some of Vietnam’s fine arts and handcrafted traditions, the Bat Trang Pottery Museum is a must-visit. Inside the striking building, which looks like several beautiful clay pots itself has 6 levels of incredible ceramic works of many distinctive shapes and styles, including works created at the nearby Bat Trang Ceramic Village.

Speaking of the village, it is considered to be the oldest pottery-making place in all of Vietnam, which is what makes signing up for a workshop one of the most unique things to do in Hanoi. It’s doesn’t cost much to join, but being able to make something from a place with such heritage and prestige is pretty special and makes a great personalised souvenir, although you have to pay extra on top of the initial fee to keep what you made.

20. See Artworks The Country’s 1000-Year-Old Heritage.
Vietnam National Museum of Fine Arts.

Taking on a more general historical context, the Vietnam National Museum of Fine Arts showcases important art pieces collected through the country’s 1000-year history, with a particular emphasis on the events of the 20th Century when Vietnam was at war with France during the first Indochine War and the southern Vietnamese and their American allies during the more infamous Vietnam War.

21. Explore Another Beautiful Place Of Worship.
Quan Su Temple.

One of the most beautiful places in Hanoi is the Quan Su Temple. Translated to the “House Of Envoys”, it dates back to the mid-15th century when the Tran Dynasty ruled where it served as the reception for foreign delegates before meeting with the king. As recently as 1934, it underwent a major renovation and is now a place of worship and a stunning tourist attraction for people to marvel at.

Must-See Attractions In Hanoi Map.

Accommodation: Where To Stay In Hanoi.

• Best Budget: A&EM VILLA.
• Best Mid-Range: Five Star Westlake 1st-4th Floors Hotel & Serviced Apartment.
• Best Luxury: Grand Mercure Hanoi.

While the Old Quarter of Hanoi provides plenty of historical charm with its narrow streets, bustling atmosphere and traditional shops and street performances, there’s so much more than the Vietnamese capital than the millennium-old city that put it on the map. From numerous world-class museums showcasing their beloved leader Ho Chi Minh and the Hoa Lo Prison where John McCain was imprisoned to architectural relics like the Imperial Citadel and the Quan Chuong Gate, the serene West Lake and a breathtaking view from the Lotte Tower Observation Deck, there’s no shortage of incredible places to visit in Hanoi in addition to Old Quarter.

If you are planning to visit Hanoi, consider looking at these other posts.

📍13 Best Things To Do In Hanoi Old Quarter (Tours, Activities & Attractions, 2024.)

📍Pullman Hanoi: An Honest Review. (2024.)

📍3 Day/ 2 Night Athena Luxury Cruise In Ha Long Bay: An Honest & Comprehensive Review.

📍Mercure Hanoi La Gare: An Honest Review. (2024.)