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What is the most beautiful part of Hanoi for tours?

Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam’s thousand-year civilisation, is not only known for its rich history and culture, but it also offers a plethora of tempting tourist attractions, each with its own unique characteristics. If you have to choose the most gorgeous site to visit, Hoan Kiem Lake is the best option. This is not only a symbol of the capital of thousands of years of civilisation but also a convergence of cultural, historical and beautiful natural values.

Location and historical significance of Hoan Kiem Lake 

 
The beauty of Hoan Kiem Lake

The beauty of Hoan Kiem Lake

Hoan Kiem Lake, also known as Sword Lake, is located right in the heart of Hanoi’s capital. Not only is it a famous landscape with natural beauty, the lake is also a place containing important historical and cultural stories, bearing the mark of time.

The Turtle God (Kim Qui), according to legend, gave King Le Loi a magical sword in the 15th century to aid him in fending off the Ming invaders. This sword has become a symbol of heavenly protection and power, helping the country reclaim its independence. Following the triumph, while rowing on the lake, King Le Loi saw the Turtle God again and returned the sword to him. The lake was therefore renamed Hoan Kiem Lake, which means “sword returning lake". This legend is more than just a folk story; it reflects the spirit of patriotism and sincere devotion of the Vietnamese people to their gods and ancestors.

There are busy streets all around Hoan Kiem Lake, which measures around 12 hectares. Despite its location in the centre of a bustling metropolis, the lake has a pleasant appearance, with a calm water surface and a clear blue tone. The brilliant red Huc Bridge, which represents traditional Vietnamese architecture and culture, joins Turtle Tower (Pen Tower) and Ngoc Son Temple, two key historical and cultural attractions near the lake.

Hoan Kiem Lake has historical and mythological significance, but it is also an important part of the Hanoi community’s daily existence. Every early morning, the lakeside becomes bustling with people’s exercise, walking and Tai Chi activities. The fresh air and peaceful landscape create an ideal space to relax and enjoy quiet moments amid the hustle and bustle of urban life.

Ngoc Son Temple and The Huc Bridge in Hoan Kiem Lake

The Huc Bridge

The Huc Bridge

Located in the middle of Hoan Kiem Lake is Ngoc Son Temple, an ancient temple worshipping Van Xuong De Quan, the god of literature, and Tran Hung Dao, a famous general of Vietnamese history. To enter the temple, you must pass the Huc Bridge, a striking red bridge shaped like the morning sun. The Huc Bridge and Ngoc Son Temple are not only spiritual destinations but also ideal places for tourists to learn about Vietnamese history and culture.

The Ngoc Son Temple was built in the 18th century and has undergone numerous renovations while retaining its original shape. The temple grounds are expansive and encircled by lush trees, creating a serene and pleasant atmosphere. Within the temple, visitors can observe several elaborately carved statues and parallel-verse panels celebrating sages and national heroes.

Activities at Hoan Kiem Lake

  • Walk around the lake in the early morning or evening to view the peaceful water and get some fresh air. Many old trees and stone benches surround the lake, providing great locations to sit, relax, and enjoy the environment. Many locals might be seen exercising, playing chess, or simply conversing, creating the impression of a lively and cheerful atmosphere.
  • Visit the Turtle Tower: Turtle Tower, a well-known symbol of Hoan Kiem Lake, is located on a small island in the centre of it. Even though you cannot go up the tower, you can still admire its beauty from afar and take souvenir photos. Turtle Tower has an ancient and majestic beauty and is a place that marks many important historical events in Hanoi.
  • Enjoy your coffee: Around Hoan Kiem Lake, there are many cafes with airy spaces and beautiful views of the lake. You can sit and enjoy a cup of coffee and admire the lake view from above, especially in the evening when the street lights shimmer and reflect on the water. The cafes here often have open designs, close to nature, creating a feeling of relaxation and comfort for customers.

Cultural events and festivals at Hoan Kiem Lake

Turtle Tower

Turtle Tower

Hoan Kiem Lake is where cultural events and traditional festivals of Hanoi often take place. On major holidays such as Lunar New Year and Hung King’s Anniversary, the lake is brightly decorated with lanterns, fresh flowers, and flags. Lion dancing, water puppetry, and folk music performances are common events here, attracting a great number of visitors and tourists.

One of the most well-known celebrations is the Mid-Autumn Festival, which takes place every eighth lunar month. The area around Hoan Kiem Lake has become the centre of cultural and entertainment activities for children. Bright lanterns, folk games, lion dances, and street art performances create a joyful, bustling space.

Monuments and attractions around Hoan Kiem Lake 

The Old Quarter

The Old Quarter

Around Hoan Kiem Lake, there are many historical relics and attractive attractions, such as the Hanoi Opera House, Hoa Phong Tower, Hanoi Post Office and Old Quarter. To learn more about Hanoi’s culture and history, combine visits to these locations into one trip.

The Hanoi Opera House, a French-style architectural gem, hosts a wide range of high-quality art acts. The Hoa Phong Tower, located near the lake, is a historical architectural remnant that exhibits Buddhist culture. Hanoi Post Office, with its unique architecture and prime location, is where you can send postcards and shop for typical Hanoi souvenirs.

Enjoy the cuisine near Hoan Kiem Lake

Pho

Pho

The area around Hoan Kiem Lake is also home to many eateries and restaurants with Hanoi specialties. You can try beef pho, bun cha, fried spring rolls, and street delicacies like pillowcakes and donuts. Lakeside restaurants not only serve wonderful food but also offer a cosy, private atmosphere with stunning views of the lake.

Many people enjoy beef pho, a popular Hanoi meal known for its rich flavour, clear broth, and tender beef. Bun cha, former US President Barack Obama’s favourite food, is a delectable blend of vermicelli, grilled pig patties, and specially prepared fish sauce. Street delicacies like pillowcakes and donuts are also excellent ways to sample local cuisine.

Experience culture and art surrounding Hoan Kiem Lake

Water Puppet Show

Water Puppet Show

The area around Hoan Kiem Lake also has many cultural and artistic spaces, such as the Thang Long Puppet Theatre, where you can enjoy traditional water puppet performances, a unique Vietnamese art form. Male. Exhibition galleries and small museums are also ideal places for you to discover more about local art and culture.

Thang Long Puppet Theatre is famed for its water puppet performances, which provide tourists with unique and interesting experiences. Folk tales and traditions are vividly recreated using puppets, music, and narration, leaving the audience feeling suspenseful and excited.

Shopping and entertainment near Hoan Kiem Lake

Trang Tien Plaza

Trang Tien Plaza

Not only a place to visit, Hoan Kiem Lake and the surrounding area are also a shopping paradise with many shops and commercial centers such as Trang Tien Plaza. You can shop for clothes, souvenirs and handicraft products. This area also contains numerous bars, karaoke, and entertainment venues to fulfill the entertainment needs of travellers.

Trang Tien Plaza, one of Hanoi’s most upscale shopping centres, sells apparel, cosmetics, and electronics from well-known companies. Souvenir shops around the lake sell a variety of one-of-a-kind handicrafts inspired by Vietnamese culture.

Architecture and landscape of Hoan Kiem Lake

Hoan Kiem Lake

Hoan Kiem Lake

Hoan Kiem Lake stands out with its beautiful architecture and scenery. The bright red Huc Bridge, ancient Turtle Tower and Ngoc Son Temple create a perfect picture in the heart of the city. Each season, Hoan Kiem Lake has its beauty: spring with blooming peach trees, summer with shady green trees, romantic autumn with falling yellow leaves, and winter with the cold air. 

In the spring, peach blossoms bloom along the lake, creating a lovely and romantic atmosphere. In the summer, the lush trees provide shade, creating a nice and comfortable atmosphere. In the autumn, falling yellow leaves create a charming, wonderful landscape. In the winter, when the weather is cold, the lake becomes peaceful and tranquil, providing a sense of peace and tranquilly.

Explore Hanoi culture 

Hoan Kiem Lake is not only a tourist site, but it also provides an opportunity to learn more about Hanoi culture. Every day, this area attracts many street artists, music groups, and dancers performing in areas around the lake, giving visitors rich and diverse cultural experiences.

Street artists perform a variety of art forms, including musical instruments, singing, and dancing, to create a bright and joyous atmosphere. Folk music ensembles perform traditional songs and national musical instruments, allowing guests to learn more about Vietnamese musical culture.

Conclusion

Hoan Kiem Lake is not only the most beautiful spot to visit in Hanoi, but it also serves as the city’s symbol. This is a must-see place when visiting the capital because of its breathtaking natural views and profound historical and cultural significance. Whether you want to study about history, engage in cultural activities, or simply rest and enjoy the beauty, Hoan Kiem Lake will provide you with unforgettable experiences. Take time to explore and enjoy the wonderful things this place has to offer, to understand more about the beauty and soul of Hanoi.

Do not forget to regularly follow our Facebook page and Website for more interesting information about travelling and booking Hanoi tours at the best prices.

Amazing Hanoi - Halong Bay - Ninh Binh: 5 days

Genesis cruises halong bay
Genesis cruises halong bay
Ninh Binh Tam Coc
Ninh Binh Tam Coc
Hanoi people
Hanoi people
Hanoi Van Mieu
Hanoi Van Mieu
Hanoi - HCM Mausoleum
Hanoi - HCM Mausoleum
Hanoi Bike through rice field
Hanoi Bike through rice field
Hanoi Cyclo Tour
Hanoi Cyclo Tour
Hanoi Farm tours
Hanoi Farm tours
Halong Bay
Halong Bay
Halong Boat
Halong Boat
Glory Cruise
Glory Cruise
Halong islet
Halong islet
Halong Bay
Halong Bay
Genesis cruises halong bay
Ninh Binh Tam Coc
Hanoi people
Hanoi Van Mieu
Hanoi - HCM Mausoleum
Hanoi Bike through rice field
Hanoi Cyclo Tour
Hanoi Farm tours
Halong Bay
Halong Boat
Glory Cruise
Halong islet
Halong Bay

We will explore the most amazing places in the north of Vietnam. First, North Vietnam Hanoi Tour will bring you to explore Hanoi charming city, with a half-day city tour, you will visit the most iconic attractions in Hanoi such as President Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum complex, Temple of Literature, Hoan Kiem Lake and the old quarter of Hanoi. After Hanoi, 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. For ending two days of Inspirational Hanoi – Ninh Binh – Halong Tour, we will spend one night stay on a cruise to explore the seven natural wonder of the world. Let’s explore the Magnificent North of Vietnam with Impress Travel.

 Email:northvietnamtour@impresstravel.com or contact the hotline (Whatsapp, Zalo, Viber, Skype) at +84.912 379 189 – Mr. Alex.

Tours Itinerary

Day 01

HANOI ARRIVAL – GREETING – HANOI CITY TOUR– Private Tour (L)

  • Good morning, pick you up at Noi Bai International
  • Airport and transfer to Hanoi Capital city.
  • Check-in the hotel then have lunch at the restaurant.
  • Afternoon sightseeing tour begins with a visit to President Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum ( closed on Monday and Friday, every afternoon, and whole from 15 June – 15 August, view the outside the building). Inside the mausoleum, there are sightseeing of the Presidential Palace (view from outside), President’s Fishpond, House On Stilts, and One Pillar Pagoda.
  • Next, we will pay a visit to the Temple of Literature. It is where Confucius – The founder of Confucianism was worshiped. This place as known as the first National University of Vietnam. It is where kings, mandarins, talented people of Vietnam training to the functionary.
  • Our tour continues with an exciting visit. We will visit one of the most beautiful lakes in Hanoi is Hoan Kiem Lake. Then, we will go to the Ngoc Son Temple, which is in the middle of Hoan Kiem Lake.
  • Continue a short walking tour around the old quarter with a tour guide.

Day Inclusions: Private A/C transfer, English-speaking tour guide in Hanoi, lunch, entrance fee, hotel in Hanoi

Day 02

HANOI – NINH BINH (TAM COC, HOA LU) TOUR (B/L)

  • Good morning, have breakfast at the hotel.
  • 7.30 – 8.00 AM: Pick you up at your hotel in the Old Quarter and transfer to Tam Coc.
  • 8.00 – 10.00 AM: After two hours of transferring, our tour guide will introduce you to Vietnam as the history, culture, lifestyle of local people. On the conical hat, we will have a mini-game show to teach you how to say and write some Vietnamese simple words such as Xin Chào, Tạm Biệt, Tôi yêu Ninh Bình, etc. We will give you a little souvenir and you can wear it during the trip.
  • 10 AM: We will prepare for a boat trip to visit the beautiful Tam Coc. It takes 1.30 hours rowing along the Ngo Dong river through the three mysterious caves. You can enjoy spectacular scenery surrounded by rice paddies and towering limestone mountain peaks.
  • 11.30 AM: We will get on Thanh pier for a short walk to visit Thai Vi Temple, which is one of the well-known temples in Ninh Binh, Vietnam. We will continue 10 minutes walking along majestic valley with rice fields, rivers and lotus ponds for Tam Coc Nature Lodge where we will relaxing
  • Enjoy your lunch in here – Vietnamese food.
  • 1.30 PM: you have a chance to be a fisherman and learn how to catch the fish in the pond or river.
  • 2:00 – 3:00 PM: We ride a bike to Thung Nang, along the river among the rice field, lotus ponds, and limestone Mountains. We will continue to through a peaceful Dan Khe Trong village. This area is a real picture of the rural countryside in the north of Vietnam.
  • 15: 00: Return the van, drive to visit Hoa Lu Ancient citadel which was built in the 10th century, and the temple dedicated to King Dinh and King Le
  • 4:00 PM: Back to Hanoi Capital.
  • 18:30: Arrive in Hanoi & we will drop you at your hotel in the Old Quarter.
  • Have dinner is available on your request.
  • Overnight at the Hanoi Hotel.

Day Inclusions: Car/Mini-Van, Outstanding English speaking guide, Lunch – Vietnamese Cuisine at Tam Coc Nature Eco Lodge, All sightseeing tickets, Good bike with gears, 02 bottles of Mineral water, Services charges and government tax, Rowing boat to visit Tam Coc, One conical hat as souvenir, Demonstration of teaching to learn how to write, speak Vietnamese, and catch fish

Day 03

HANOI – HALONG CRUISE (B/L/D)

  • Good morning! Enjoy your with have breakfast at your hotel, then check-out the hotel.
  • 07:30 am – 08:00: Pick up from your hotel to travel to Halong Bay (notice: pickup time can be a bit flexible depending on each different Cruise, distance Hanoi – Halong bay is 160km, a stop for break time on halfway for a refreshment).
  • You enjoy the drive and sightseeing the peaceful countryside scenery during the bus trip (4 hours), we arrive at the Ha Long bay seaport at around noontime.
  • 12h 30: You will aboard the cruise, check-in & enjoy a welcome drink while your cabin will be assigned.
  • Check-in your cabin and put your luggage in, relax and may do a short inspection tour by moving around the cruise to discover about the cruise’s architecture & design
  • Enjoy the sumptuous lunch with fresh seafood meal while cruise slowly gliding out into the Halong bay.
  • 15h00 – 16h00: Explore the amazing Sung Sot Cave – the most beautiful cave in Halong Bay.
  • 16h00 – 17h00: Cruising to Titop Island. Go swimming and relaxing at the beach of Titop or climb up to the top of the island for a view panorama of Halong Bay.
  • 17h00 – 17h30: Return to the boat, enjoying beautiful seascape on the way.
  • 17h30 – 19h00: Enjoy Sunset Party on the sundeck and admire the best moments of the day when the sun starts to set.

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)

Day 04

HALONG BAY – HANOI (B/L)

  • Start your day with Tai Chi exercises or a photo hunt.
  • 07h00 – 07h30 Have breakfast on board and enjoy the peaceful morning of Halong Bay.
  • 08h30 – 09h30 Kayak among the hidden areas of the bay, around the Drum Cave.
  • 09h45 Return to the boat. Freshen up and check out of your cabin.
  • 10h00 – 10h30 Continue your cruise exploring the Bay, passing Ba Hang fishing village, Dog Islet, and more.
  • 10h30 – 11h30 while heading back to the harbor, watch the fruit carving demonstration and participate in the Cooking Class before enjoying a traditional Vietnamese lunch.
  • 11h45 – 12h00 Disembark V’Spirit Classic.
  • 12h15 – 12h30 Transfer back to Hanoi.
  • About 16:00 – Arrival back to Hanoi central city, recheck in the hotel
  • Dinner is available on your request.
  • Free time & Overnight in Hanoi city

Day 05

HANOI CITY CENTER TO NOI BAI AIRPORT – DEPARTURE (B)

  • Good morning, enjoy breakfast at the hotel. Then, you have some free time to explore Hanoi city before going to Noi Bai airport for your scheduled flight.
  • The end of the tour, thank you and see you again!

What’s included in this trip :

  • A/C accommodation with DOUBLE or TWIN ROOM (2 persons share 1 room; single room can be available on request) with daily breakfast
  • A/C transfer from Airports to the hotel and other tourist destinations according to the itinerary
  • Bus round trip to Hanoi – Ha Long Bay; (private land transfer available on request)
  • 2 days 1 night on Joint Cruise trip in Ha Long Bay, with DOUBLE or TWIN (2 persons share 1 cabin; single cabin can be available on request), full meals on board
  • Kayaking in Ha Long Bay
  • Meals as indicated in the itinerary. (Breakfast = 04; Lunch = 04; Dinner = 01)
  • English- speaking guides as specified (Chinese/ Malaysian speaking guide can be available on request)
  • Entrance fees
  • Mineral water (2 bottles/ per day with sightseeing tour)
What’s excluded in this trip:
  • All international and domestic flights
  • Specified as Chinese/ Malaysian/ Indonesian/Thai speaking guide can be available on request to pay for extra-fee.
  • Travel Insurance
  • Airport taxes
  • All meals not mentioned
  • Tips for tour guides, drivers, crew members in Ha Long Bay, other attendants if may have (3 USD/pax/day)
  • Other personal expenses not mentioned.

3 STAR HOTELS & CRUISES IN VIETNAM  SELECTED

 

Destination

Room Type

HOTEL NAME, ROOM TYPE & WEBSITE

Hanoi 3-star Hotels

Adamas Deluxe City 

ADAMAS HANOI HOTEL
Refer: http://swancruiseshalong.com/

3-star Halong  Bay Cruises

Swan Cruise Deluxe

SWAN CRUISE HALONG BAY

Refer: http://swancruiseshalong.com/


4 STAR HOTELS & CRUISE IN VIETNAM SELECTED

 

Destination

Room Type

HOTEL NAME, ROOM TYPE & WEBSITE

  Hanoi  4-star Hotels

The light deluxe with window

THE LIGHT HOTEL HANOI

Refer: thelighthotelhanoi.com/en/

4-star Halong Bay Cruises

Sealife Suite Canbin

HUONG HAI SEALIFE CRUISE HALONG BAY

Refer: www.sealifegroup.com

5 STAR HOTELS & CRUISE IN VIETNAM SELECTED

 

Destination

Hotel Category

HOTEL NAME, ROOM TYPE & WEBSITE

  Hanoi 5-star hotels

Deluxe Sketch Apricot Hotel

 APRICOT HOTEL HANOI

Refer: apricothotels.com/room/sketch

5-star Halong bay Cruises

Deluxe Room with Ocean View Margaret

MARGARET CRUISE HALONG BAY

Refer: https://margaretcruises.com

 

The hotels and cruise are subject to change to similar category in case of fully booked

Vietnam Travel Map: 15 Days

Ranana

You feel like organized tour, but you are in a privet tour. Impress Travel make the different.

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.

Ebrahim

Tour of Vietnam

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!

Solly Pochee

The tour was fantastic

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

Bernard Lim

Great value for money with 4 stars hotel

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.

Derek.Schooling

We enjoyed our holiday with Impress travel

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

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