Embark on an exciting Hanoi Walking Photo Tours to prowl the heart of the capital and shoot its most iconic landmarks through your lens. The most striking feature of the tour is Turtle Tower, one of the historic symbols of Hanoi, culturally and spiritually important. Nestled right in the middle of Hoan Kiem Lake, this sacred tower shines with outstanding reflections in the water, making it an object of perfection for photography. These in Hanoi tours range from history to merely capturing the city’s essence, an ideal mix of storytelling and aesthetic beauty for all travelers who want to see the cinematic Vietnamese capital in a different but memorable way.
The Turtle Tower has its roots in the 15th century during the reign of King Le Loi. It is the main actor in one of the most famous Vietnamese legends, the legend of the magic sword. According to this legend, King Le Loi received a divine sword from a golden turtle that helped him win his battle against the Chinese Ming dynasty. According to the legend, after the victory the king returned the sword back to the turtle in the lake, hence the name Hoan Kiem Lake or “Lake of the Returned Sword." Later on, the Turtle Tower was built as a memorial of that event, and it can be called a symbol of victory and peace.
The Turtle Tower is architecturally a dramatic juxtaposition of traditional Vietnamese architecture with French colonial influences popular during the period when the tower was built. Standing proud on an islet on Hoan Kiem Lake, it was to be a three-tiered structure of simple elegance. Classic Vietnamese elements monopolized the bottom tier, while the topmost tier was constructed with French Gothic-style arches that reflect the unique blend of Eastern and Western architectural influences for which Hanoi is noted. This blend of styles only adds to its historical and cultural charm, making it a focal point over many Hanoi Walking Photo Tours.
To the people of Hanoi, Turtle Tower is much more than the vestige of times past; it is a symbol of the unwavering strength and resilience of this city. Over centuries, it has grown to represent peace and prosperity; locals hold this spot in the highest regard. It is a sacred site, fully embodying the spiritual and cultural heart of Hanoi. Standing in the middle of the bustling city, Turtle Tower provides a sense of calm continuity with modern Hanoi back to its rich historical past.
For Hanoi Walking Photo Tours, Turtle Tower is a place to visit. Photographers come here to shoot the reflection of Turtle Tower in Hoan Kiem Lake, particularly during the golden hours of sunrises and sunsets. Its tranquil water mirrors the same serene scene, and thus, a perfect composition that puts an accent on nature and architecture combined. The vibrant skies reflected in the lake have made Turtle Tower an iconic photo subject that offers a different perspective on both Hanoi’s history and beauty. It is one of the main highlights during any photography or cultural Hanoi Tours.
Our Hanoi Walking Photo Tours commence at the historic Hanoi Post Office, which features beautifully mixed French colonial architecture. You will also get to take quite some time to shoot its classic beauty amidst the hectic pace of modern life in the city. You can meet your tour guide and other travelers before taking off on our walking tour to get us to many pieces of history and cultural hotspots in Hanoi.
Photo Opportunities: Snap the sophisticated lines of the post office, framed with busy streets to give your photos a unique mix of old and new Hanoi.
First, we visit the peaceful Hoan Kiem Lake, where the legendary Turtle Tower is right in the middle. Your guide will now tell you the story of King Le Loi and how he returned a magical sword to the Golden Turtle, a story sewn into Vietnamese history. When morning light bounces off the lake onto this building, the Turtle Tower is an ideal subject for fantastic photos.
Photo Opportunities: Make use of the soft light and the mirror-like waters and shoot spectacular images of the Turtle Tower. Nothing is a bad angle in this quiet scene; if you were a photographer, you definitely would like this one.
Then, we cross the bright red The Huc Bridge, which leads us to another important spiritual landmark called Ngoc Son Temple. The temple is devoted to historical figures and scholars and is located on a small island in the lake-a quiet escape from the hustle and bustle of the city.
Photo Opportunities: The juxtaposition of the bright-red bridge against the green waters of the lake itself is a perfect shot. Enter the temple and click on the elaborately articulated details of the architecture and statues, maintaining the spiritual feel of Hanoi.
Next, we pay a visit to the Thap But, better known as the Pen Tower, and Dai Nghien, otherwise known as the Inkstone, which represents Hanoi’s scholar-endowed history. This tower, if judged in a Vietnamese context, amenably embodies knowledge and the quest for more knowledge.
Photo Opportunities: If you want to take more photos, you can frame the Pen Tower against the blue of the sky or the lake for a highly dynamic shot that takes in symbolic architecture. Appeal for close-up photography is equally great for the Dai Nghien and its ornate carvings.
We’ll now head to the busy Old Quarter, where narrow streets are lined with traditional shops, street scenes, and teahouses. It’s here that the past and present appear to collide so spectacularly, yielding excellent cultural experiences and some fantastic photo opportunities.
Photo Opportunities: Capture the daily life in Hanoi, from street vendors to old houses. With squatting cars, riotous colors of textures and energy Old Quarter is a dream for every photographer.
We take some cool treats from Trang Tien Ice Cream or retreat into one of the cozy local cafes at the end of our tours. This is a great time to relax, go through your photos, and take in the Hanoi atmosphere.
Photo Opportunities: Snapshots of locals having fun during the day or creative photography of the food-famous Trang Tien Ice Cream.
It’s an exciting adventure passing by the Turtle Tower in a Hanoi Walking Photo Tour; with just a few tips, you can make the most out of this.
The best time to shoot Turtle Tower is in the early morning or the golden hour before sunset. For early mornings, the Hoan Kiem Lake is serene, and this serenity along with soft morning light generates stunning reflections of Turtle Tower on the still water. Even at sunset, the golden hues cast a warm feel onto the lake, hence offering amazing photography moments wherein every shoot seems unreal. Whether amateur or pro, this view of Turtle Tower will add to the experience one gets from Hanoi Walking Photo Tours.
For those aiming for excellent shots, here are a few practical tips:
Turtle Tower and Ngoc Son Temple are sacred places, so little respect is advised. Dress modestly while visiting the temple and avoid making noises or disrupting the surroundings. Always ask for permission before taking pictures of the people, especially around the sacred sites. Let respect for norms promise an enjoyable time for all during the Hanoi Tours.
Hanoi Walking Photo Tours with Impress Travel take approximately four hours, covering all the iconic places around Hoan Kiem Lake including the Old Quarter. Group prices start at about US$30 per person, depending on the group size and specific tour features. Normally, tours run daily, starting at 8:00 AM. In order to confirm your place, an early reservation highly is recommended via Impress Travel’s official website or directly with their customer service.
Most importantly, the best thing about joining Hanoi Walking Photo Tours is the capability of being submerged into the beauty and culture of Hanoi-from traditional souvenirs down to delicious local foods. After capturing the perfect shot of Turtle Tower, get a piece of Hanoi to take back home with you.
Sightseeing around Hoan Kiem Lake and Turtle Tower, quite several shops and markets selling traditional Vietnamese souvenirs can be easily found by tourists. Following is a list of things that must not be missed and the price range along with recommended locations:
Ao Dai: The traditional Vietnamese long dress is a classic symbol of elegance. You will find ready-made ones if you get them tailored in the Old Quarter. Prices stand at between $30 and $100, depending on the fabric and how well it is done.
Where to buy:
Silk Scarves: Equally famous is the high-quality silk of Hanoi, and one of the beautiful, easy-to-carry souvenirs is silk scarves. Prices vary within the range of $10 to $30.
Where to buy:
Wooden Handicrafts: From small figurines to lacquered boxes, intricately carved wooden items cover the local markets. Prices vary from $5 to $50, depending on the size and craftsmanship.
Where to buy:
Conical Hats (Non La): The traditional Vietnamese hats, as functional as they are iconic, are a steal: a fine one would cost about $5 or so to $10.
Where to buy:
No Hanoi Photo Walking Tour would be complete without tasting some of the most famous Hanoi dishes! Either for a break or at the end of your tour, there are plenty of mouth-watering dishes to try near Turtle Tower.
Banh Mi: This delicious Vietnamese sandwich costs from dollar $1 to $3 and is a must-eat. You can easily see several banh mi stalls and small shops around every corner in the Old Quarter area.
Where to buy:
Pho: This is the specialty and signature noodle soup of Hanoi, which everybody loves. Prices can be from $2 to $4 per bowl. After photographing Turtle Tower, this can be a grand meal just sought.
Where to buy:
Trang Tien Ice Cream: This sweet treat to end your tour, this is one of the famous spots in Hanoi. A cone costs about $0.50 to $1.50, depending on the flavor.
Where to buy:
Bringing home souvenirs and enjoying the local delicacies add to making every Hanoi Walking Photo Tour all the more memorable. Let’s not miss shopping and eating like the locals while capturing the heart of Hanoi on our tour!
In one word, Turtle Tower is the heart of Hanoi Walking Photo Tours because of its sensational combination of cultural significance and historic depth with great photographic flair. Sitting serenely on Hoan Kiem Lake amid other landmarks, including The Huc Bridge and Old Quarter, this tour is a must for all those exploring Hanoi’s beauty and history. Don’t forget to regularly follow our Impress Travel for more interesting information about traveling to Ha Noi and to book Ha Noi Tours at the best prices.
Day 1: HANOI ARRIVAL – GREETING – HANOI CITY TOUR– Private Tour (L)
Day 2: HANOI – NINH BINH (TAM COC, HOA LU) TOUR (B/L)
Day 3: HANOI – HALONG CRUISE (B/L/D)
Day 4: HALONG BAY – HANOI (B/L)
Day 5: HANOI CITY CENTER TO NOI BAI AIRPORT – DEPARTURE (B)
Day Inclusions: Private A/C transfer, English-speaking tour guide in Hanoi, lunch, entrance fee, hotel in Hanoi
Day Inclusions: Transfer, breakfast, lunch, tour guide, rowing boat, entrance fee, bicycles, hotel in Hanoi.
Day Inclusions: Hotel breakfast, shuttle bus A/C transfer, English speaking tour guide on CRUISE only, entrance fee, full board, joint Cruise in Halong bay with private cabin (2 persons share 1 cabin)
What’s included in this trip :
4 STAR HOTEL TO BE USED
City | Hotel | Room |
Hanoi | Silk Path/ La Siesta Premium | Deluxe with windows |
Halong Bay | Paradise Sail/Bhaya cruise | Deluxe with windows |
5 STAR HOTEL TO BE USED
City | Hotel | Room |
Hanoi | Peridot Hotel/Apricot | Deluxe with windows |
Halong Bay | Paradise Elegance/Au Co | Deluxe with windows |
We went on a private trip to Vietnam and Cambodia, the whole trip plan was organized for us by the Impress Travel Company from Vietnam, the company did an amazing job, the whole trip was organized in a wonderful way with an amazing match between the various parties, their choices were correct and the quality of the hotels chosen were very high quality and it is important to note that the price was low in comparison To other agencies, thanks to Impress Travel and especially to Daniel who was tolerant and open to changes and organized the route for us.
Impress travel were amazing. Did my bookings with Daniel for our tour of Vietnam and I must say Daniel was very professional and prompt with his services. All the arrangement, plans, pick-up & drop-off services, hotels, vehicles, sightseeing tours and guides were spot on and excellent. Did 4 nights Hanoi, 1 night Hà Long Bay cruise, 3 nights Hoian, 4 nights Saigon and 1 night in Can Tho. It was totally awesome. Every part of the journey was superbly arranged and planned. I will highly recommend Impress Travel for anyone interested in visiting Vietnam. Very organized and reliable!
I booked with Impress Travel in July. My contact person was Tommy Thang. He is an amazing person. He was very helpful. He changed my program twice for me. Very accommodating!
We started our holiday in the north (Sapa)of Vietnam and travelled down to HCMC.
The tour was fantastic, Tommy's arrangements were to the"T".
I will always use them if I have to visit the area again and recommend them to one and all.
Thank you once again Mr.Tommy and the Impress Team.
Sulaiman Pochee
Great value for money with 4 stars hotel accommodation for 4 couples. The tour guide has been very helpful and brought us to amazing places in Sapa. We want to thanks Thuy the tour guide and especially Mark from Impress Travel for his great service and assurance throughout our trip. We’ll definitely use his service for other tour packages in other parts of Vietnam.
This is the second time we travel to Vietnam with IMPRESS Travel. First time, we booked our holiday to Hanoi, Halong Bay & Sapa during Dec 2018 with Impress.
Second time, we travel to Hoi An, Hue & Danang (Central Vietnam) during Jan 2019.
My friends & I are very glad & happy with all the hotels stay in Central Vietnam, the meals provided are delicious. We are greatly appreciated with all the tour arrangement by Tommy & his team (tour guide).
Especially, Mr. NHAT C.V. He is helpful, cheerful, knowledgeable and very professional. He always volunteer to take a nice pictures for six of us (group) .
We enjoyed our holiday with Impress travel. We will definitely come back to Vietnam again with Impress
Impress Travel offers daily tours to attractive destinations in the capital of Hanoi as well as package tours to explore the most popular destinations in North Vietnam, such as Ha Long Bay, Ninh Binh, and Sapa, or adventure tours to explore the Northeast & Northwest regions such as Ha Giang, Cao Bang, Bac Kan, Mu Cang Chai. Our products focus on providing travel services for private tours, small groups, family groups, and couples who need to make special requests for the trip. For the trip to Hanoi & North Vietnam, your submission to Impress Travel & Destination Management Company (DMC), which will bring the greatest value to your trip.
To explore Hanoi Capital's hidden charm for the first day, visit the most iconic attractions such as historical President Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum complex, Ancient Temple of Literature, tranquil Hoan Kiem Lake, Hanoi elderly quarter. Then, the upcoming of Hanoi – Halong Tour, we will have an amazing 2 day and 1 night stay on an outstanding cruise to explore the seven natural wonder of the world.
We will explore the most amazing places in the north of Vietnam. We will bring you to explore Hanoi charming city. Then, we are going to Tam Coc, Ninh Binh where we visit the Hoa Lu Ancient Capital, enjoy the boat trip in Tam Coc and to discover the countryside. The unforgettable time is on Halong bay cruise that bring you to explore the seven natural wonder of the world.
To bring travelers to discover the most iconic of treasures in the Northern part of Vietnam. Travelers get ahead with the discovery of Hanoi’s hidden charm .The stunning beauty of North Vietnam come up with Sapa’s discovery were attracted by imposing sceneries such as rows of mountains, hills, lush valleys, rice terraces, waterfalls, and ethnic minority community. Afterward, visitors following up to Ha Long Bay
To discover the most iconic of treasures in the Northern part of Vietnam. Travelers get ahead with the discovery of Hanoi. Then, to explore stunning beauty of Sapa where we are attracted by imposing sceneries such as rows of mountains, hills, lush valleys, rice terraces, waterfalls, and ethnic minority community. Afterward, visitors following up to Ha Long Bay & Ninh Binh (Tam Coc).