Are you planning a trip to Hanoi and wondering what the city has in store for you? Look no further as we present to you a one-day Hanoi tour that covers the most famous sites of the city. Being a historical capital for 1000 years, Hanoi is undoubtedly the cultural venue of Vietnam, where ancient vestiges have been surviving against the ravage of wars and the harshness of time. In this article, we will take you through the must-see places in Hanoi that will give you an insight into the rich history and culture of the city.
Table of Contents
One Day Sightseeing in Hanoi Tour
1. Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum
The first and indispensable monument that should be on your list is the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum. Located in the center of Ba Dinh Square, the massive building was built between 1973 and 1975 and is inspired by Lenin’s mausoleum in Moscow, cleverly designed with Vietnamese architecture that is a combination of hero worship and modern art. This is where President Ho Chi Minh read the Declaration of Independence on September 2, 1945, giving birth to Vietnam.
The Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum is a complex spread over a total area of 14 hectares. Visitors can pay tribute to President Ho Chi Minh and also visit various famous monuments such as the Ho Chi Minh Stilt House, the Presidential Palace, Ho Chi Minh Museum, One-Pillar Pagoda, and Dien Huu Pagoda. Please note that the mausoleum doesn’t open on Monday and Friday and only opens in the morning from 8 am. Also, guests are requested to wear formal clothes and are not allowed to bring cameras inside the mausoleum.
2. Van Mieu (Temple of Literature)
The second must-visit destination on your list should be the Van Mieu (Temple of Literature). Located only 20 minutes away from the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, it is the most ancient monument of Hanoi and the first university of Vietnam. The temple was built in 1070 and was dedicated to Confucius, scholars, and sages. It served as a center of learning for Vietnamese royalty, mandarins, and members of the elite.
It may take you around two hours to enjoy everything here, so you still have enough time to visit other famous destinations in Hanoi.
3. Hoan Kiem Lake
The third place on your list should be the Hoan Kiem Lake, which is located in the heart of Hanoi’s Old Quarter. This lake has a rich cultural and historical significance and is surrounded by numerous legends, including one that tells about a giant turtle who gave a sword to King Le Loi to chase out the Chinese invaders. The name Hoan Kiem means “returned sword,” which is why the lake is also known as Sword Lake.
Visitors can take a leisurely stroll around the lake or visit the Ngoc Son Temple, which is located on an island in the middle of the lake. The temple, built-in 1865, is dedicated to Tran Hung Dao, a Vietnamese military hero who defeated the Mongol invaders in the 13th century.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Hanoi is a city that is rich in culture, history, and tradition. A one-day Hanoi tour may not be enough to explore all the famous sites of the city, but the above itinerary will give you an insight into the most famous places of Hanoi that are worth visiting. From the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum to the Van Mieu (Temple of Literature) and the Hoan Kiem Lake, these places are a true reflection of the city’s history and culture. So pack your bags, book your tickets, and get ready to explore the beauty of Hanoi.