Although Hanoi is one of Vietnam's most modern cities, its rich history spanning over 1,000 years has allowed it to preserve its traditional charm. Today, I’ll take you on a journey through some of the most famous landmarks that embody the long-standing heritage of the 36 streets.
- Shark jaw building
Địa chỉ: https://goo.gl/maps/DCxtnT4hxuwx3c5P9
One of Hanoi's most iconic landmarks, located in the heart of Hoan Kiem District, directly opposite Dong Kinh Nghia Thuc Square— a vibrant venue where both major and local events take place.
2. Phố đi bộ hồ Hoàn Kiếm
Right next to the Shark Jaw Building is the Hoan Kiem Lake walking street, which comes to life every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday evening, offering a lively atmosphere with street performances, games, and local food.
3. Nhà sách Mão
Địa chỉ: https://goo.gl/maps/u55xz5hmzwj6FqbP8
Located on Dinh Le Book Street, near Hoan Kiem Lake, Mao Bookstore is nestled in an old dormitory and is one of the longest-standing bookstores in Hanoi.
Not only preserving ancient books, Mao bookstore is also famous for its "ladder of knowledge", the signature of the shop.
A vast collection of books covering all genres.
In addition to selling books, the shop also offers drinks for customers who want to relax and read in a quiet space on the second floor.
4. Bread Factory Tràng Tiền
Địa chỉ: https://goo.gl/maps/VAVCtamJygNZdHgJ8
A fantastic bakery near Mao Bookstore, known for its delicious treats. While it may not be a traditional spot, I highly recommend stopping by and giving it a try!
The restaurant is also well-known for its four-flavor Bingsu, a perfect treat to cool off during the hot summer days.
5. Tòa soạn báo Hà Nội mới
Địa chỉ: https://goo.gl/maps/546wCQRWwgbEmWEi8
Another iconic landmark of Hanoi, this building preserves its ancient French architecture and holds significant historical value.
This is also a popular photography spot for young people visiting Hoan Kiem Lake.
6. Nhà thờ lớn Hà Nội
Địa chỉ: https://goo.gl/maps/w697LHcwX2XjnQZj8
Another landmark in Hoan Kiem District, the cathedral was built following the model of Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris and has stood for over 100 years, showcasing its historical and architectural significance.
7. Phố sách Hà Nội
Địa chỉ: https://goo.gl/maps/JAD1ejqve6knVG3dA
Just over 1km from Hoan Kiem Lake, Hanoi Book Street is a hub for book lovers, featuring hundreds of thousands of books from various bookstores. The street also offers a spacious area where visitors can sit and enjoy reading in a peaceful setting.
8. Ban công Café
Địa chỉ: https://goo.gl/maps/p7qe8DgR8a39P1ns7
Balcony Café is tucked away in an old French villa at the start of Dinh Liet Street, right in the heart of Hanoi's Old Quarter.
With its charming ancient architecture and a striking bougainvillea trellis, the café effortlessly captures attention from anyone passing by.
9. Bún cá Sâm cây si
Địa chỉ: https://goo.gl/maps/tg8y9AB1kT2csNq48
A renowned, long-standing fish noodle shop located near Balcony Café, best known for its signature meat-wrapped fish dish.
10. Văn Miếu – Quốc Tử Giám
Địa chỉ: https://goo.gl/maps/DDRfkmPTaFSHdeM7A
Quoc Tu Giam, Vietnam's first university, was established nearly 1,000 years ago and served as a place of learning for the children of ancient royal mandarins.
Initially, in 1070, King Ly Thanh Tong built the Temple of Literature to honor Confucian saints and ancestors while also providing a place for Crown Prince Ly Can Duc to study.
In 1076, King Ly Nhan Tong established Quoc Tu Giam next to the Temple of Literature to educate the children of court mandarins. Over time, under successive dynasties, the institution expanded and began admitting talented commoner students with outstanding academic abilities.
After nearly 1,000 years of history, this site has become a place of great historical significance, preserving the names of scholars who passed bachelor's and doctoral exams during Vietnam’s feudal dynasties on stone steles. It also serves as a sacred space for offerings and worship of kings from the Ly and Le dynasties.
In addition, this historic site is also featured on Vietnam’s 100,000 VND banknote.
This is also a place where students come to pray for good luck before important exams.
The Temple of Literature has recently renovated several rooms to display ancient documents of great historical value.
Next is the area for worshiping kings.
And finally, the Temple of Literature – Quoc Tu Giam is also a favorite photo spot for students as well as for yearbook photos.
Above are the top 10 must-visit places around Hanoi's Old Quarter. I hope this article has helped you learn more about our beautiful capital. Thank you for reading to the end!
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