Discover Hanoi: Must-See Sites and Things to Do

Welcome to Hanoi

The first impression of Hanoi hits you as soon as you arrive!
The heat, the buzz of scooters, the crowds of people, the mix of old temples and high-rise buildings—it’s all a bit chaotic at first, but quickly becomes captivating. There’s an energy here that’s hard to describe until you’re in it.

For photographers, or curious travellers, Hanoi is a treasure trove of moments waiting to be captured.

Wander the Old Quarter

The Old Quarter is the beating heart of Hanoi. Its maze-like streets are packed with scooters, street vendors, and locals going about their day. Each street has its own specialty—leather goods, metalwork, herbs, toys—an echo of its trading past. It's chaotic and fascinating, and every turn offers something new to see or photograph. Grab a stool at a streetside stall and tuck into a bowl of steaming pho, or cool off with an iced egg coffee (cà phê trứng), a creamy, rich Vietnamese staple. This area is alive day and night and ideal for candid street photography—life happens right out in the open here. Just remember to look both ways twice before stepping into the street.

Stroll Around Hoan Kiem Lake

Hoan Kiem Lake offers a welcome breath of calm amid the city's noise. Locals come here early in the morning to practice tai chi or take slow walks under the trees. It’s also where you’ll find couples taking wedding photos and old men playing chess on shaded benches. In the middle of the lake is Ngoc Son Temple, which you reach via a bright red wooden bridge. The temple is small but atmospheric, offering a glimpse into Hanoi’s spiritual and mythical traditions—including the famous legend of the golden turtle. It's a great place for slower-paced photos with interesting reflections and a touch of local history.

Visit the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum

This imposing granite building is where Ho Chi Minh, the founder of modern Vietnam, lies in rest. It’s a solemn experience and taken very seriously—no cameras allowed inside, and no talking during the viewing. But standing in that cool, dim hall is strangely powerful. The mausoleum is surrounded by open squares, landscaped gardens, and uniformed guards. Just nearby, you can also see his stilt house and the One Pillar Pagoda. It’s not just a stop on a tourist checklist—it’s a space that says a lot about Vietnam’s modern identity and respect for its past.

Explore Vietnam's Culture and Creativity

The Vietnamese Fine Arts Museum is often overlooked, but it’s a gem. Inside, you’ll find everything from ancient Buddhist statues and wood carvings to modern, abstract paintings and war-time sketches. It offers a visual journey through Vietnam’s history and culture and is especially good if you’re into visual storytelling. Not far away is the Temple of Literature, a peaceful compound built in 1070 as Vietnam’s first national university. Dedicated to Confucius, it’s beautifully preserved, with long courtyards, ancient stone steles, and traditional Vietnamese architecture. It’s a haven of quiet reflection and makes for some striking photos of symmetry, structure, and timeless design.

Take a Day Trip to Halong Bay

While not in Hanoi itself, Halong Bay is a must-do while you're in northern Vietnam. It’s around 2.5 to 3 hours by road, and once you’re there, you’ll see why it’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Thousands of limestone islands rise out of the green sea like something from a dream. You can join a day cruise, or better yet, spend a night on a boat and watch the sun set and rise over the bay. There’s kayaking, swimming, and cave exploring if you want to get active—or just sit on deck with a drink and a camera, letting the views do the work. If you're shooting, mornings and late afternoons give you the best light.

Dive into the Markets

Hanoi markets deliver a complete experience through their vibrant atmosphere and loud noises while offering an overwhelming yet deeply captivating experience. You will find Dong Xuan Market among the biggest markets of Hanoi which offers everything from street food to textiles and electronics as well as souvenirs. Upstairs, you’ll find clothing and fabric stalls. The bottom floor of the market features mostly food options with maximum levels of chaos. Visiting this market will provide you with the chance to observe local life rhythms even though you do not need to buy anything. The area presents a perfect opportunity for photographers who want to document motion and color while capturing character since they should operate quickly while showing proper respect to the local area.

Experience the Nightlife

The night brings a transformation to Hanoi yet it keeps its high level of activity. The Old Quarter of Hanoi features bars that extend onto pavements while open windows play music and the smell of grilled food and spices spreads through the area. Rooftop establishments join small beer establishments with plastic seating which offer beer prices below one British pound. Watching karaoke activities is more entertaining than participating in them here. During your visit you can enjoy live music alongside street performances and active night markets. The time between dusk and dawn creates perfect conditions for photography as neon lights and moving vehicles and the city's nighttime magic come alive.

Final Thoughts

Hanoi presents itself as a city that maintains its vibrant character and intense nature throughout. The city requires time and space to capture your heart in an excellent manner. The location provides photographers an exceptional opportunity to work. The place stays unforgettable for those who visit. When you arrive in Hanoi with an open mind and GPS guidance and patience you will receive unforgettable experiences along with unforgettable flavors and memories that will last for years.