Blog Vietnam Travel Guide

Exploring Hanoi's Charm: Discover 5 Must-Visit Destinations to Immerse Yourself in the Beauty of the City

Hanoi Saint Joseph Cathedral

Referring to the check-in location in Hanoi, St. Joseph’s Cathedral will be a name to be noticed. This architectural block has unique and nostalgic beauty located at the intersection of 3 major streets. On regular days, the church has a peaceful, quiet beauty and is full of signs of time, creating an ancient feeling. With high walls combined with many windows, the dome will surely bring attractive tourist destinations to tourists when traveling to Hanoi. However, the church will be pretty crowded if you go on Christian holidays.

Location: Chung Street, Hoan Kiem District.

Long Bien Bridge - "Hanoi Eiffel Tower"

Long Bien Bridge, located in Ngoc Thuy Ward, Long Bien District, Hanoi, emerges as a distinctive icon and the first steel bridge resiliently spanning the Red River in the northern region. Its significance transcends technical aspects to embody a place of paramount importance.

Viewed from a distance, Long Bien Bridge glitters like the renowned Eiffel Tower. Standing on the bridge, one can immerse in the vast expanse of the blue sky harmonizing with the surrounding environment, creating a picturesque and tranquil scene that imparts a sense of lightness to every visitor. Moreover, this bridge serves as an ideal destination for photography enthusiasts, offering the opportunity to capture unique, refined, and nostalgically infused images.

Hanoi Train Street

The sidewalk cafes along the train street in Hanoi create a relaxing and captivating space for tourists wanting to observe the trains passing by. These cafes often have outdoor seating right by the roadside, providing an ideal spot for visitors to unwind while immersing themselves in the vibrant atmosphere of the train street.

The lively scene painted by trains moving through various stations and bridges forms a unique ambiance. The gentle glow of lights from the cafes accentuates the picturesque view of the train street, especially in the evening, creating a warm and romantic atmosphere. Guests can enjoy aromatic coffee and local snacks while admiring the life passing by through the window.

This location becomes a favorite destination for those seeking a break from the hustle and bustle of city life, sharing quiet moments and appreciating the unique beauty of Hanoi's train street together.

Hoa Lo Prison - "Hanoi Hilton"

Hoa Lo Prison in Hanoi, Vietnam, stands as a significant historical symbol, bearing witness to the profound challenges and hardships the country has endured. Constructed in the 19th century, this prison has seen many ups and downs in Vietnam's history.

Characterized by its distinctive architecture, solid stone walls, and razor-sharp barbed wire, Hoả Lò is not only a cultural relic but also a place that holds the painful stories of those who endured dark days within its confines. The prison cells, confinement cages, and execution areas — every corner of Hoa Lo encapsulates unforgettable memories.

Known colloquially as the "Hanoi Hilton," the prison gained this nickname during the Vietnam War when it housed numerous American soldiers. For them, Hoả Lò represented not just a place of confinement but also a symbol of resilience and determination.

Today, Hoa Lo Prison has been transformed into a historical museum, preserving precious memories and shedding light on the painful periods of the past. It serves as a conduit for the present generation to better understand the sorrows and struggles that have shaped the rich tapestry of Vietnam's history.

Bat Trang - Ceramic Village

Bat Trang, a village nestled on the banks of the Red River near Hanoi, Vietnam, is a haven for traditional pottery craftsmanship. Renowned for its centuries-old ceramic artistry, Bat Trang stands as a testament to the delicate balance between heritage and innovation.

Wandering through the narrow alleys of the village, the rhythmic sounds of artisans shaping clay on potter's wheels fill the air. Bat Trang is a living museum of ceramic creation, where skilled hands mold and carve clay into exquisite shapes, from intricate vases to everyday tableware. Each workshop is a fusion of tradition and modernity, as artisans draw inspiration from ancient techniques while infusing their creations with contemporary designs.

The kilns, standing like sentinels, bear witness to the transformative process of turning raw clay into vibrant, glazed masterpieces. The air is thick with the scent of firing clay, a scent that lingers in the alleys and creates an atmosphere of authenticity.

Bat Trang is not just a place of craftsmanship; it is a community where generations of artisans have passed down their skills through time. The village exudes a sense of camaraderie, with neighbors sharing knowledge and experiences, ensuring that the flame of this ancient craft continues to burn brightly.

As visitors explore the vibrant marketplace, they encounter an array of pottery, each piece telling a story of meticulous craftsmanship and cultural identity. Bat Trang not only produces art; it breathes life into history, offering a captivating glimpse into the timeless art of ceramics in Vietnam.