Things to do in Hanoi

Hanoi Old Quarter

The city's Old Quarter is an intriguing area where visitors can admire a selection of colonial-style architecture lining the narrow streets. This part of the city embodies the sights that come to mind when you think of Vietnam, including streets bursting with the hustle and bustle of market stalls, motorbikes and cars. It's best to explore this part of the city by foot to avoid traffic jams and take the opportunity to see the city as the locals do.

For Nature Enthusiasts

Ba Vi National Park nature reserve, with its breath-taking natural beauty, is famous for its mountain with three peaks that jut out sharply into the sky - so far in fact, that they are regularly shrouded in cloud at the top. The park has some of the most dramatic scenery in Vietnam and a wide range of animals and jungle plants, making it a must-see for nature enthusiasts. If you're feeling up to the challenge, the summit of the tallest of the park's peaks has an 11th century temple which offers breathtaking views of the lush green countryside and some natural hot springs.

Hanoi Opera House

One of the capital's most elegant and regal buildings is the Opera House, located at the centre of the French Quarter. The Opera House was built in 1911 and showcases a Parisian-style charm with intricately-decorated balustrades, imposing Gothic domes and cream columns that would not look out of place in many European cities. Performances here include dance and drama as well as opera, and the venue often attracts internationally-renowned artists that you may be lucky enough to see with a well-timed visit.

The Temple of Literature

The Temple of Literature is a delightful temple complex located in the heart of Hanoi. It was originally constructed as a centre of learning in honour of the renowned Chinese scholar and philosopher, Confucius. In the millennium since, many more buildings have been added to the construction, with the area now filled with a lush green garden and beautiful shrines and pavilions.