Hoàn Kiếm Lake is one of the most iconic landmarks in central Hanoi and is beloved by both locals and visitors. The peaceful lakeside offers a relaxing walking path, while the bright-red Thê Húc Bridge leading to Ngọc Sơn Temple creates a picturesque scene throughout the day. In the early morning, the lake is filled with residents exercising, and in the evening the area becomes lively with street vendors and cultural performances.

The Old Quarter represents the historic commercial heart of Hanoi, where traditional craft streets, local food vendors, and colonial-era architecture coexist in a vibrant atmosphere. Visitors can explore narrow alleys filled with shops, cafés, and markets showcasing the daily life of the city. It is also one of the best areas to experience authentic Vietnamese street food and local culture.

Founded in 1070, the Temple of Literature is known as the site of Vietnam’s first national university and is dedicated to Confucius and scholars. The complex features ancient courtyards, stone steles, and traditional Vietnamese architecture that highlight the country’s rich educational heritage. It is a serene place where visitors can experience the historical roots of learning and scholarship in Vietnam.

The Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum is a nationally significant monument where the preserved remains of President Ho Chi Minh are housed. Located at Ba Đình Square, this site offers visitors insight into Vietnam’s modern history and the legacy of its independence leader. The surrounding complex includes museums and government buildings that further illustrate the country’s political and cultural development.

Trấn Quốc Pagoda, situated on a small island in West Lake, is among the oldest Buddhist temples in Vietnam. Its peaceful setting, tall pagoda tower, and lakeside scenery make it a popular destination for those seeking a quiet and reflective environment. The location is especially beautiful at sunset, when the colors of the sky reflect off the lake.