With a lot of old world charm bathed in oriental mystery, Hanoi is a great place to go backpacking with friends or on honeymoon. Below are some of the mustsees in the beautiful capital of Vietnam.
7 Must-sees on a Hanoi Excursion
Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum Ho Chi Minh is one of the most revered rulers in Vietnamese history. Regarded as one of the country’s greatest leaders his people laid him to rest in a tomb fit only for not only a King. A sombre building with a grey concrete façade, the building is said to be modelled after Lenin’s mausoleum in Moscow. Hundreds of tourists fall in line to pass through Uncle Ho’s preserved body every day.
Water Puppet Theatre Water puppetry is the Vietnamese answer to Asia’s puppet tradition. Long associated with Hanoi, the water puppet theatre is a must see during any trip to the capital. The best and most popular spot to watch water puppetry remains to be at the Thang Long Puppet Theatre.
Hanoi Elegance Ruby Hanoi itself, despite being a busting metropolitan, gives the impression of being dainty, even provincial. That is why the best way to experience the place to stay at the best boutique hotels Hanoi. Hanoi Elegance Ruby is a lovely little boutique hotel in the middle of the city. Most noteworthy about the hotel is its excellent service and affordable accommodations.
The Perfume Pagoda Believed to have been built in the early 15th century, The Perfume Pagoda is a striking and absolutely breathtaking series of Buddhist temples that have been built into the mountain range. The temples are connected by a maze of alleyways carved directly out rocks and have flowing streams all around. Although located a good 60km outside of Hanoi with the whole trip taking a whole day, the trip is worth it.
The Old Quarter Hanoi The Old Quarter of Hanoi is exactly what comes to mind when curious foreigners think about the city. The area is packed with colonial architecture in every corner as well as a swarm of vendors, motor bikes and bicycles. The area is also a great place to buy local Vietnamese food.
Ba Vi National Park Located around 2 hours (48km) from downtown Hanoi, the Ba Vi National Park is home to Hanoi’s famous threepeaked mountains. The mountains are a sight to behold as they reach so steeply upwards the skies that the peaks are often covered in a thick foliage of clouds. On the top of the highest peak is an 11th century temple that offers breathtaking views.
Hanoi Charming 2 Hotel Another boutique hotel that is worth staying in is Hanoi Charming Hotel 2. It has free airport pickup and a great location. Like most boutique hotels in Hanoi, the service is great (owing largely to just how nice Vietnamese are).