Hanoi - a guide for tourists. Hanoi: entertainment and active recreation.
Every connoisseur of Asian culture, oriental luxury, spiritual beauty and splendor secular life simply must visit Hanoi - the capital of Vietnam and one of the most populated cities in the country. The mild climate and abundance of attractions have made the city of Hanoi popular tourist destination, in addition, travelers consider it also the most accessible.
Merging West and East
The city is unique in that two cultures merge on its streets at once: exotic oriental and elegant western. Objects of European architecture coexist with traditional Buddhist temples and noisy markets. There are a lot of people here, life is always in full swing, despite the fact that Hanoi is located in a quiet cozy valley of the Red River (by the way, the name locality translates as "city between rivers").
The area is usually humid and hot, especially from April to October, when the monsoons prevail and it rains constantly. But from December to March it gets dry and even a little cool. There are typhoons in Hanoi in autumn.
Gift of the Golden Dragon
The settlement of Hanoi in Vietnam is already more than 1000 years old: 1010 is considered the year of its foundation. new town on the basis of an already existing fortress, and the capital of the state was immediately transferred here.
True, then the settlement had a different name - Thang Long, which in Vietnamese means "flying dragon." They say that it was dedicated to the golden dragon, which the emperor allegedly saw near the fortress. The name Hanoi, familiar to us, appeared much later - in 1831.
The new city was actively developing, gradually becoming more and more. IN last time its area has increased recently - in 2008, when several adjacent provinces were annexed to the capital. Now Hanoi consists of 10 urban areas, 18 counties and one separate administrative unit.
Over time, large industrial enterprises appeared in the city, which peacefully coexisted with shops of handicraftsmen and artisans. The inhabitants of Hanoi were able to carry traditional occupations and customs through the centuries, preserving their cultural identity, because the craft settlements that still exist here were founded as early as the 12th century.
Temples, palaces, museums and lakes
We can talk about the sights of Hanoi for a long time: the city is stunningly beautiful and diverse. There is an object here that is classified as a monument world heritage UNESCO- cultural complex Hanoi citadel. This majestic building, over which the flag of Vietnam constantly flies, has ancient history: its structure includes the royal corps of the Ly and Nguyen dynasties.
The earliest object, the foundation of Kinh Thien Palace, dates back to 1467. In addition, the North and South Gates have been preserved. Forbidden city, as well as the Flagpole Tower and some military premises.
A special place among all the sights is occupied by the Temple of Literature - the first university in the country and, at the same time, a religious complex founded in 1070. The pagodas are surrounded by a wonderful park, which is pleasant to walk around on a hot day, but the most remarkable objects are undoubtedly 82 stelae: stone slabs set on statues in the shape of turtles, listing the names of those who especially distinguished themselves in passing exams.
Can't get past architectural ensemble, the undoubted pride of Vietnam, which includes the mausoleum and the Ho Chi Minh Museum, a house on stilts and the Motkot pagoda. Each of these objects is beautiful and unique in its own way.
So, the museum building was built in 1985 in the shape of a lotus. Documents and objects belonging to Ho Chi Minh are stored here, as well as other historical evidence of the life of the legendary Vietnamese president and national hero. Without getting to know this person, it is also impossible to understand the history of Vietnam itself, especially the epoch-making revolution for the country. The body of the politician and cultural figure rests in a mausoleum built in 1975.
A grandiose building with columns and a huge stone staircase is surrounded green spaces and attracts hundreds of tourists every day. Ho Chi Minh also owned a two-story house on stilts.
The house itself is very picturesque, but the surrounding garden with coconut palms, flower bushes and fruit trees especially attracts visitors to the city. Some of Ho Chi Minh's personal items are stored in the rooms of the house. Finally, the complex includes the One Pillar Pagoda, founded about 1000 years ago by Emperor Ly Thai Tong.
The wooden building is built on a single stone support, which rises above the square-shaped lake. Of all the structures in Vietnamese Hanoi, this is undoubtedly one of the most amazing.
Adjacent to the complex Presidential palace, built at the beginning of the last century and is the official residence of the President of the country. Previously, there was an ancient pagoda on the site of the palace, which was demolished before construction began.
Video “Eagle and Tails”:
The classic European style was chosen for the building, with columns, exquisite grand staircases, wrought iron gates and other recognizable details. Initially, the palace was intended for the residence of the governor-general of Indochina, but after Vietnam became independent, Ho Chi Minh turned the building into a place for receiving guests, refusing to live here.
Do not miss the opportunity to visit the many museums and cultural centers of Hanoi. For example, in the Palace of Culture and Friendship on Working Square, you can watch a theatrical performance, visit a library, a scientific and technical pavilion, etc.
Learn all about armed forces Vietnam and military history countries can be visited by visiting the Museum of the Army, and in Vietnam Museum ethnology in the Kauziai region will tell you amazing details about the life of 54 ethnic groups inhabiting the country.
Speaking of the splendor of the city of Hanoi, one cannot fail to mention its natural resources. In the very heart Vietnamese capital splashing huge and amazing picturesque lake Tai, on the banks of which cultural and historical buildings, including the Chan Quoc Pagoda, built in the 6th century. By the way, according to legend, the lake appeared after the battle of the hero of folk tales Lak Long Kuan with Huli-jing - an evil fox spirit.
Hoan Kiem Lake (Lake of the Returned Sword) attracts travelers. Here, according to legend, Emperor Le Loi acquired the sword Thuan Thien, thanks to which the era of Chinese rule in Vietnam was completed. There are also many unique objects here, for example, Bridge rising sun, leading to the Jade Mountain Temple, Turtle Tower and others.
Shopping and Entertainment
Of course, the sights of Hanoi are not limited to this list. There are so many palaces and temples in the city that everyone will find something interesting for themselves. And you can make purchases in the colorful Old Quarter, where merchants of all stripes offer their services around the clock.
Souvenirs are mainly bought here: silk products, tablecloths, musical instruments, jewelry, religious objects and the so-called water dolls.
From time to time, free tours are held in Hanoi, to which everyone is invited. Organized by their local student society. And you can get a deeper understanding of the traditions and cultures of Vietnam if you visit a specific excursion conducted by another student group.
The city's nightlife is also extremely diverse: there are many nightclubs, colorful shows and water puppet theater performances.
There are, of course, many hotels and inns, as well as restaurants and bars - you will have where to stay and have a good time.
All roads lead to Hanoi
Geographically, Hanoi is quite accessible: many flights arrive daily at Noi Bai International Airport, including from Russia. The distance from the airport to Hanoi is 35 km and is easily overcome by taxi or minibus.
Dozens of buses and private cabs ply in the city itself. Scooters and bicycles are the most popular means of transportation: parking lots are equipped for these types of transport almost everywhere, in addition, they can be easily rented.
From Hanoi it is very convenient to get to other resorts and attractions of the country, such as Sana'a, Halong Bay and others. Having visited the city of Hanoi, you will discover the whole of Vietnam, incomprehensible and infinitely beautiful.
Hanoi("Ha Noi" in Vietnamese) is the capital of Vietnam and the country's second largest city. The population, together with the suburbs, in 2013 amounted to 7.1 million inhabitants. From 1010 to 1802 it was the most important political center of Vietnam. At the beginning of the Nguyen dynasty (1802), the center shifted to the city of Hue, but from 1902 to 1954 Hanoi again became the capital of French Indochina. From 1954 to 1976 it was the capital of North Vietnam, and in 1976 it again became the capital of a united Vietnam. The city is located on the right bank of the Red River, 1760 km from Ho Chi Minh City and 120 km from Haiphong. In October 2010, Hanoi officially celebrated the 1000th anniversary of its founding.
Hanoi is a mixture of East and West. This is a city with a touch of "Parisian charisma" and Chinese traditions. City with thousand years of history, important Cultural Center Vietnam. There are more historical and cultural monuments here than in any other city in Vietnam.
Hanoi means "city between rivers" in Vietnamese. Built in the lowlands, it is dotted with picturesque lakes, sometimes called the "city of lakes".
How to get to Hanoi from the airport and by train
Hanoi transport: how to get around
Orientation
Tourists are most interested in three areas located north, south and west of Hoan Kiem Lake. All of them are within walking distance of each other.
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Parks and botanical gardens hoan kiem lake (Hoan Kiem) means "Lake of the Returned Sword" in Vietnamese. Hoan Kiem Lake is located in the center of the city, one of the most scenic spots and a popular holiday destination on the outskirts of the Old Quarter. Local Hanoi people do jogging, do yoga, relax in cafes and restaurants, shop in stores, musicians play around and young couples walk around. Lake Ho Tay(Ho Tay), translated from Vietnamese " western lake". Exactly this big lake capitals (length coastline 17 km) and a popular holiday destination with surrounding parks, hotels and villas. The lake is bordered by many important places in the history of Hanoi and Vietnam. Tran Quoc Pagoda, the oldest pagoda in Vietnam, was built in the 6th century on a small island in the lake. Next to the pagoda is the Quán Thánh Temple, one of the four sacred temples. ancient Hanoi. There are numerous walking paths around the lake, there are cafes and coffee houses, and many souvenir merchants. Those who are especially active can ride a bike or swim on a pedal catamaran in the shape of a “swan”. Botanical Garden (Vuon Bach Thao). The Hanoi Botanical Garden was founded by the French in 1890. At that time, it occupied an area of 33 hectares. Many years later, the Botanical Garden “shrinked” to 10 hectares in connection with the decision to build the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum on its territory. Two-thirds of the plants and trees are local, the rest are brought from other tropical regions of Africa, America and Oceania. There are paths for joggers and cyclists, fields for playing sports, in two small lakes you can swim on pedal catamarans. The Botanical Garden is located behind the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and next to West Lake, entrance from Hoang Hoa Tham Street. Lenin park. The main symbol of the park is a huge monument to Lenin. There are few people before lunch, but in the afternoon children, students and sportsmen come to the playgrounds of the park to practice. Lenin Park is located on Dien Bien Phu Street, opposite the Vietnam Military History Museum (between the Old Quarter and the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum). country trips fragrant pagoda(Chùa Huong). Perfume Pagoda, one of the largest religious shrines in northern Vietnam, is located 60 kilometers southwest of Hanoi. The Fragrant Pagoda consists of a complex of pagodas and Buddhist shrines built on the slopes of limestone cliffs and inside a cave. The centerpiece of the complex is the Tuachong Temple in the Huongtit Cave (Hương Tích). Other important shrines are the pagodas of Dengchin and Thienchu. To get to the Huong Tit cave, you need to climb hundreds of stone steps, and then go down again. But here you have options: either go up on foot or use the cable car. By the way, the Fragrant Pagoda Festival is the largest Buddhist festival in northern Vietnam. The festival officially starts on the 15th of the second month in Chinese lunar calendar(at the end of February or beginning of March) and lasts 3 months. The festival is visited by more than 1 million pilgrims and tourists. How to get there. The first starting point of the pilgrimage is the pier Duk (Ben Duc) on the river Yen. As a rule, from Hanoi more than 2 hours drive to the Duk pier. During the annual festival, the Yen River is filled with hundreds of boats of pilgrims. For many, the highlight of the trip is the rowboat ride down the River Yen (about 3 km) past stunning rock landscapes and green water meadows. While swimming, you can admire nature and take many beautiful photos. The area looks like famous caves Tam Kok near the city of Ninh Binh, although somewhat inferior in beauty. Thanh Palace Truong Viet(Thanh Chuong Viet Palace). Thanh Truong Viet Palace is a complex of historical buildings on the outskirts of the capital of Vietnam. Immediately, I note that it looks a little like a “palace”. In essence, this is a complex of traditional Vietnamese buildings of about 30 houses, shrines, pagodas, a puppet theater on the water and other premises. By and large, Thanh Truong Viet Palace reproduces a traditional Vietnamese village, all of which is surrounded by greenery. Almost all the buildings were dismantled and delivered from the northern provinces of Vietnam, they were reassembled on the spot. Some of the houses are furnished, while others display works of art: ceramics, sculpture, paintings, wood carvings, metalwork, etc. The owner of the complex is a local artist named Thanh Truong. There is a Vietnamese restaurant on site. Opening hours: Monday - Saturday 09:00 - 17:00. Entrance costs about $5 dollars. How to get there. Thanh Truong Viet Palace is a 15-minute taxi ride from International Airport Noi Bai or about an hour drive from the center of Hanoi. Address: Doc Day Dieu, Dap Keo Ca Xa Hien Ninh, website http://thanhchuongartist.com.vn Theatrical performances Ca Tru Hanoi Club. Kachu ("Sa Tru" in Vietnamese) is a unique genre of chamber music with roots dating back to the 10th century. Kacha is performed exclusively by women and has traditionally entertained wealthy Vietnamese at dinner parties and at the royal court. Today, kachu is promoted by the Vietnamese government as a national treasure. In 2009, UNESCO officially recognized "kacha" as intangible cultural heritage humanity. Since 1990, Ca Tru Hanoi club has been organizing performances by kachu musicians. Performances are held from 20:00 to 21:20 every Wednesday, Friday and Sunday at 42-44 Hang Bac, Hoan Kiem district, Hanoi. Visitors sit inside the illuminated hall, sip Vietnamese tea and enjoy singing. Address: 42-44 Hang Bac, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi. Thang Long Ca Tru Theatre. Another performance of kachu musicians takes place at the Thang Long Ca Tru Theatre. Performances are held here at 20:00 on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays, the duration is one hour. Address: 87 Ma May Street, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi, www.catruthanglong.com Tuong Theater. Tuong (also called "Hat Boi" or "Hat Tuong"). Tuong is often referred to as classical "Vietnamese opera", heavily influenced by Chinese opera. "Tuong" was most popular during the Nguyen dynasty in the 19th century. The play has five different scenes, all of which include traditional music and dance, comedy and tragedy with characters from Vietnamese folklore. The show is easy to read, less than an hour long and broken into 5 different scenes. At the end, the audience is invited to the stage for a memorable photo with the actors of the theater. The show starts at 18:00 on Monday and Thursday. The Night of Royal culture show starts at 7:30 pm on Sunday. Address: 51 Duong Thanh, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi, website www.vietnamtuongtheatre.com Golden Bell Show. The Golden Bell Show performance includes 8 traditional folk styles of music and dance from all regions of Vietnam. The first four rows are equipped with headphones with English text translation. But the show itself is easy to read and without translation, lasting about an hour. Performance time: every Saturday 20:00 - 21:00. The price is about $7. Address: 72, Hang Bac Street, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi, site http://goldenbellshow.vn Thang Long Water Puppet Theater. Vietnamese water puppet theater originated in the villages of the Hong He River Delta in northern Vietnam in the 11th century. Peasants used this type of entertainment during seasonal floods. Puppets for the puppet theater on the water are made of wood, and the performance takes place in a pool filled with water. The puppets move over the water to the sounds of an orchestra of traditional music, masterfully controlled by puppeteers hidden behind a screen. The performances of the theater reflected important historical facts, customs and traditions of the people. For example, King Li Tai To returns the sword to the turtle, dragon dances, everyday life Vietnamese farmers (growing, grazing buffalo, fishing). Traditional music, theatrical performances based on stories from the life and life of the Vietnamese are very familiar with the culture of Vietnam. In the last rows, the theater on the water looks bad, so try to buy seats closer to the stage. Worth a visit if only because this theater exists only in Vietnam. Performance hours: every day 13:45 - 15:00 - 16:10 - 17:20 - 18:30 - 20:00 - 21:15. A ticket costs between $ 3-5. Address: 57B Dinh Tien Hoang Street, Hanoi, www.thanglongwaterpuppet.org Opera theatre("Nha Hat Lon" in Vietnamese). The Hanoi Opera House was built in 1911 by the architects Broger and Harloy as a smaller copy of the Opéra Garnier (Paris Opera). From a distance, it looks like an exact copy of the Paris Opera, but the interior of the building is inferior to its French original. I advise you to visit and listen to the live singing of Vietnamese singers in this theater. Address: 1 Trang Tien Street, Hanoi. Rock climbing VietClimb. This is a rock climbing gym, a popular climbing destination in Hanoi. Since opening in 2005, VietClimb has quickly amassed a large community of Vietnamese climbers. VietClimb organizes mountain climbing trips, but they are mainly aimed at experienced climbers, not beginners. Address: So 40 Ngo 76 An Duong, Hanoi. Aquapark Ho Tay Water Park(Ho Tay Water Park). The water park is located along Ho Tay Lake (“Ho Tay” in Vietnamese means “Western Lake”). Attractions include waterslides, lazy river 450 m long, children's pool, wave pool, cable car above the water. The entrance fee is almost symbolic, but we must honestly admit that the water park is in a very neglected state, it is hardly worth coming here to waste time. Water park closes at winter period, at other times opening hours: 08:00 - 19:00. Vietnamese tavern trips Hanoi Street Food Tour. "Hanoi Street Food Tour" organizes hiking through the Old Quarter with a visit to the market and Vietnamese cafes for a bite to eat and drink. The tour takes several hours, during which you will try about 9 Vietnamese dishes: pho soup, popular fish rolls, traditional desserts, beer, coffee with egg yolk. The guide will tell you about Vietnamese cuisine, where and how the Vietnamese eat, it is very interesting and time flies by like lightning. Tours to Vietnamese taverns are offered by other agencies: Dao Agency Travel(Includes unlimited consumption of rice wine (18%-25% ABV), 286 types of rice wine to choose from), website http://daostravelagency.com Vietnamese Cuisine Cooking Courses Cooking courses from the Blue Butterfly Restaurant. If you like Vietnamese food, book a Vietnamese cooking class from Blue Butterfly Restaurant. At 09:00, meet at the Blue Butterfly restaurant, then go to Dong Xuan market, buy food, herbs and spices. At about 10:15 you will return back and start cooking under the guidance of the restaurant's chef. Around 12:30 you will start savoring your own food. Address: 61 Hang Buom, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi, website http://bluebutterflyrestaurant.com Hanoi Cooking Center. "Hanoi Cooking Center" - a cafe and a culinary school at the same time. Hanoi Cooking Center organizes the following types of workshops: Vietnamese Cooking Classes: Variety of Vietnamese Cooking Classes Cooking for Kids: Children learn how to cook simple Vietnamese dishes on their own. Street Eats and Market Tour: tours of Vietnamese taverns. First, try "pho" - the most popular soup in Vietnamese cuisine. Then visit the local market and 5 more places to get an idea of popular Vietnamese food. The tour lasts 4 hours and ends with a Vietnamese tea party with local sweets. The guide will recommend worthy, in his opinion, cafes and restaurants in Hanoi. Address: 44 Chau Long Street, Ba Dinh District, Hanoi, website http://hanoicookingcentre.com Vietnamese cooking courses also offer Spa salons and yoga Hanoi spas offer tourists Vietnamese acupressure procedures, pearl baths with aromatic oils and flower petals, thalassotherapy, mud wraps, anti-stress treatments, and other services. Below is a list of the city's most popular spas: La Siesta Spa, address: 32 Lo Su Street, Old Quarter, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi, website http://hanoielegancehotel.com SF Spa, two branches, one at: 7 Cau Go Lane, Cau Go Street, Hoan Kiem District, and the second at: 30 Cua Dong Street, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi, website http://sfcompany.net Mong Spa Hano i, address: Level 4, Van Mieu 2 Hotel, 159 Kham Thien, Hanoi, website http://hanhphatcoltd.wix.com Spa HT, address: 6 Tho Xuong, Hang Trong, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi, website www.spaht.vn/portal Mido spa, address: 26 Hang Manh Street, Hoan Kiem District, District, website www.midospa.com Yoga Zenith Yoga Studio. Zenith Yoga Studio offers a variety of yoga classes: Iyengar, Hatha, Vinyasa, Pilates exercise system, meditation classes, for women they organize restorative, prenatal and postnatal yoga classes and kundalini classes. There are two studios in total: Zenith I at 16 Duong Thanh Street, Hoan Kiem, and Zenith II, which has a vegetarian cafe serving organic and healthy food. Site http://zenithyogavietnam.com Excursions of local tour operators Free tours from HanoiKids It is a student volunteer organization that organizes free tours around the city of Hanoi. "HanoiKids" is made up of students from Hanoi universities who want to introduce foreigners to the sights of the city and at the same time improve their English skills. That is, there is a certain cultural exchange: foreign tourists get acquainted with interesting places cities, and students get the opportunity to practice their English. If you want to learn more about Vietnamese culture, HanoiKids is the most best option. Two types of excursions: for the whole day (usually start at 9 am and end around 17:00), and half-day (start at 09:00 and end at 14:00). Free tours from Hanoi Free Tour Guides. Similar tours are offered by Hanoi Free Tour Guides. It is a non-profit organization run by a group of students and graduates of Hanoi universities since January 2010, services in English, Chinese, Russian, French, Korean and Japanese, website www.hanoifreetourguides.com Tours from Vietnam Awesome Travel Tourist Vietnam company Awesome Travel offers the following types of tours around the city and its surroundings: Suburban Tour Hanoi: half-day trips around Hanoi (within 30 km from the city), including a visit to the 15th century ceramic village of Bat Chang, the village of snake-catchers Le Mat Snake. The two-day tour also includes a visit ancient citadel Koh Loa (dated to 3rd century BC), boating on the Red River. Cyclo- Biking- Cooking Hanoi: trips around Hanoi by rickshaw, bicycle, cooking courses and shopping. Tours from Zoom Zoom Zoom Zoom organizes day trips and multi-day trips from Hanoi for small groups of tourists. Short description: Motorbiking: Motorcycle rides in northern Vietnam. Cycling: cycling trips around the city and around the capital. Kayaking: Kayaking in Lan Ha Bay. Trekking hiking V national parks And nature reserves northern Vietnam. Approximately the same excursions are offered by the following companies: Eco tours from Hanoi Eco Tour This is the first travel agency to offer eco-tours in the suburban areas of Hanoi. All trips are geared towards those who enjoy the countryside. The following types of excursions: Explore authentic experience at Hanoi Eco homestay. Trip duration 2 days. The village is a 40 minute drive from the center of Hanoi, accommodation in a homestay (homestay house with locals). Participants will see how local farmers live and work in the fields, they can go fishing with local residents. The next day, visit Thanh Truong Viert Palace (a complex of buildings on the outskirts of the capital of Vietnam, dedicated to Vietnamese folk traditions). Duong Lam village tour. Duong Lam is an old village on the outskirts of Hanoi, many of the houses are up to 400 years old. Most of the buildings are built from laterite and loamy soil, two materials available in abundance in the area. The village is also described as last place terraced rice cultivation in northern Vietnam. Fishing and Farming Life in Mai Chau. A 3-day trip to Mai Chau village, 139 km from Hanoi. The excursion includes fishing, sailing on a traditional raft on the river, working in the fields with local farmers. Fishing Life Tour. Trip to fishing village, includes boating, fishing, cycling through the countryside. Halong and Bai Tu Long cruise. 3-day cruise in Halong and Bai Tu Long bays. Includes kayaking, fishing with locals, getting to know the life of fishermen in a floating village. Wet rice growing tour. Rice is the number one food in many Asian countries, and Vietnam is no exception. This trip includes visiting water terraces, getting to know rice cultivation and all the hardships of Vietnamese farmers. At the end of the bike ride through the countryside. Home-stay and Farming Tour. A trip lasting 3 days. Mai Chau is a village at a distance of 139 km from Hanoi. Accommodation in a homestay (house for homestay with local residents). The tour includes cycling, gardening activities with locals, such as watering plants, planting vegetables, loosening the soil with local farmers, herding buffalo, fishing. Motorcycle rides from Cuong Motorbike Adventure. In Hanoi, you will certainly be offered motorcycle trips around the capital and throughout Vietnam. The well-known motorcycle rental shop Cuong offers moto tours on Minsk, Ural, Honda motorcycles and US army jeeps. By the way, the Belarusian motorcycle Minsk is very popular. The engine power (125 cc) is quite suitable for mountain trips. northern regions Vietnam. Address: 46 Gia Ngu Street, Hanoi, website http://cuongs-motorbike-adventure.com Similar motorcycle tours in the vicinity of Hanoi and throughout Vietnam offers Photo tours from Vietnam in Focus. "Vietnam in Focus" organizes interesting photos tours in Hanoi and North Vietnam. Photo tours include trips through mountain areas, villages, visits to the market. If you don't have a professional camera with you, let them know in advance and they'll lend it to you. Excursions are led by a professional photographer, he will give you advice, you are guaranteed to make beautiful photos and get an unforgettable experience. Contact them at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it . At the time of this writing, their website has been infected with viruses www.vietnaminfocus.com Cyclo Rickshaw Trips by Hanoi Cyclo Tours A cycle rickshaw is a special kind of bicycle with a seat in the front and a pedaling cyclist in the back. The cycle rickshaw is designed to carry 2 passengers. Hanoi Cyclo Tours organizes cycle rickshaw tours through the streets of Hanoi's Old Quarter. They also offer combo options: Cycle rickshaw + street food tasting tour - 4 hours Eco tour from Bloom Microventures Private Tour. Bloom Microventures is a UK-based philanthropy that provides microloans to entrepreneurs living below the poverty line in developing countries. Money for credits is involved at the expense of income from tourism. The source of money for Bloom Microventures is their ongoing one day excursion in rural highlands in the province of Hoa Binh (70 km west of Hanoi). Tour participants will get a firsthand understanding of how most people live in rural Vietnam. With the profits from the tour, Bloom Microventures provides loans to those in need so they can grow their small businesses and raise living standards. During the trip, you will learn about the realities faced by women in Vietnam, local history, religious customs and culture, you can try making bamboo baskets, harvesting rice, fishing. Website www.bloom-microventures.org Excursions to the bay from Halong Indochina Sails. Indochina Sails has been the most popular Halong Bay tour operator for over 20 years. Indochina Sails was the first company to offer overnight cruises in Halong Bay. Their fleet of six modern wooden junks are built in traditional style, have comfortable cabins and all modern amenities. Website www.indochinasails.com Bay Tours by Darian Culbert. This is the booking agency for cruises in Halong Bay. In addition to booking cruises, they issue an entry visa, book air tickets, accommodation, ground transport, excursions and much more. You can contact them by email This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it , they will quickly answer all your questions. Site http://darianculbert.com shopping When tourists are interested the best places for shopping for traditional Vietnamese souvenirs, they recommend the Old Quarter area. This is the most interesting tourist area of Hanoi, which is visited by most foreign tourists. Most popular places for shopping souvenirs are located on the streets of Hang Ngang, Hang Dao, Bao Khanh, Hang Gai, Luong Van Can and Hang Can. Souvenirs and gifts are mainly handicrafts. The most famous street in the Old Quarter is Hang Gai. With a length of only 250 meters, Hang Gai most accurately conveys the shopping atmosphere of the rest of the streets in the historic part of the city. In essence, it is a street market. "Hang Gai" in literal translation means "hemp". For hundreds of years, hemp merchants lived and worked on the street. Today, the silk trade flourishes here. A huge number of silk shops are concentrated on Hang Gai. Silk scarves, bathrobes, dresses, silk paintings, mother-of-pearl boxes, T-shirts, paper toys, silver, souvenirs. It's hard to leave without a purchase. Great products for a very affordable prices. At the same time, do not forget to bargain, reduce prices by another one and a half times. Street with the atmosphere of a shopping party. Pay attention to Ba Tieu street. It starts in the area of Hoan Kiem Lake and stretches for 2.5 km to Dai Co Viet Street. Vinatex Fashion Center and a very large shopping center Vincom Plaza Towers Hanoi are located on this street. It mainly caters to wealthy people with a fat wallet. Here they sell the most famous Vietnamese and international brands, ranging from clothes and shoes to electronics stores. Chula fashion showroom. This fashion boutique the best shop women's clothing in Hanoi. There is a choice of women's dresses, jackets, skirts, silk clothes, all of very high quality. The store is owned by Spanish owners Laura and Diego. All their products are handmade, very a good choice and quality if you are looking for something refined and unique. If your size is not available, they will take measurements, sew a dress or skirt, and send it by mail to the address you specified. Address: 43Nhật Chiêu, Hanoi, website http://chula.es Metiseko Hanoi. Another popular fashion store for women and children. Use fabrics from natural silk or 100% organic cotton. All Metiseko Hanoi clothing with patterns of Vietnamese culture, history and traditions (rice, lotus, rain). Fashionable and comfortable clothing designed by a French shop owner. The store also sells home goods and accessories. The prices are expensive for Vietnam, but all the clothes are of high quality. Opening hours: daily from 09:00 to 21:30. Address: 71 Hang Gai, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi, website www.metiseko.com Indigo Store. We highly recommend this store to all those who want to bring home a unique handmade souvenir. There is a wide selection of national clothes made from organic cotton, linen, silk, bamboo and hemp. Clothes are dyed using the indigo plant. Those who wish can take part in workshops on dyeing fabrics and clothes using indigo. In addition to clothes, there are bags, cases, hats and other accessories on sale. Each item is handmade and made by deaf people. The Indigo Store is located opposite the Temple of Literature. Address: 33A Van Mieu, Hanoi. Craft Link. Similar to Indigo above, the production involved a small group of deaf women. The store has a large selection of Vietnamese souvenirs, wallets, women's and children's clothing, jewelry, scarves, lacquerware, hats, bags, traditional costumes. Near each product, as a rule, there is a short note describing the people who made them. Craft Link- good store to choose unique gifts and souvenirs, the quality is much higher than those sold on the street or markets. The company owns two stores located in two separate buildings (100 meters apart). One store on 43 Van Mieu street, and the second store nearby on the same street - 51 Van Mieu (on the east side of the Temple of Literature), site www.craftlink.com.vn Zeds Threads. Zeds Threads manufactures and sells classic menswear and also offers bespoke tailoring for men and women. All garments are made from 100% cotton and 100% linen, pre-washed to minimize shrinkage. The store has a wide selection of shirts, shorts, trousers and jackets. All clothes are made from the highest quality fabrics. Opening hours: 10:00 - 18:00 seven days a week. Address: 51A To Ngoc Van Street, Hanoi, www.zedsthreads.com vietcraft. "Vietcraft" is represented by two stores in Hanoi. Customers can enjoy a wide range of premium handicrafts: lacquered paintings, lacquered souvenirs, lacquered bracelets, lacquered plates, beautifully painted vases, jewelry boxes, coconut bags, rattan baskets, etc. Address: one store at 24E Ta Hien Street, the second store on the same street at 30 Ta Hien Street, Hanoi, website http://vietcraft.com.vn Lacquer and more. All lacquerware in this store is handmade by Vietnamese craftsmen. Vietnamese craftsmen use the sap of the wax tree as a natural lacquer for paintings and other art objects. Obtaining lacquer and making lacquer products is a long process that requires knowledge, patience, and ingenuity. Good place for gifts and souvenirs. Address: 68 Xuan Dieu, Tay Ho, Hanoi. Dong Xuan Market. Dong Xuan Market was originally built during the French colonial administration in 1889. Since then, it has been restored several times, most recently after a fire in 1994 that almost completely destroyed the market building. At present, Dong Xuan is the largest covered market Hanoi, where wholesalers sell everything from clothes and household goods to food. I want to say right away that Dong Xuan is not a tourist market. If you are looking for gifts and souvenirs to take home, look for them around Hang Gai and Hang Hom streets. Yes, here they also sell the usual tourist paraphernalia, it cannot be said that the trip will be wasted, but you will not see much variety. If you have free time and want to visit the largest market in the capital - come. But there are much better places to buy souvenirs in Hanoi. Address: Dong Xuan Street, Hanoi. Night market(also known as "Dong Xuan Night Market"). From about 19:00, every Friday, Saturday and Sunday, from Hang Dao Street and almost to Dong Xuan Market, the entire space is closed to traffic and merchants set up kiosks, layouts and other outlets to sell all kinds of goods. Clothing is the most popular commodity, there are many Chinese souvenirs. The market attracts many with street food. Opening hours: from 19:00 to 24:00 on Friday, Saturday and Sunday. Address: night market stretches along the streets of Hang Dao, Hang Ngang, Hang Duong and Hang Giay. Bat Trang Village(Bat Trang). This old village potters, founded in the 7th century. The village is still famous for the production of high-quality ceramics, it sells well on the domestic market, in Japan, China and several European countries. Ceramics for everyday home use (cups, plates, pots, bottles, etc.), decorative and religious purposes. In addition to the many pottery shops, visit the Bat Trang Porcelain and Faience Market and learn how to make your own pottery. How to get there: City bus 47 goes to Bat Trang village (bus route: Long Bien-Bat Trang). Bat Trang village is the bus terminus. The bus runs every 20 minutes. Popular cafes and restaurants Nguyen Van Duc Snake Restaurant. The restaurant specializes in cobra and another type of non-venomous snake. Live snakes are kept in cages like live lobsters in aquariums at seafood restaurants. The waiter takes a cobra out of the cage, a poisonous tooth is removed in front of your eyes, then the heart is removed and the blood is decanted into a bowl. The cobra is taken to the kitchen and 10 dishes are prepared from it. The blood that has not cooled yet is mixed with rice wine, the still beating heart of the snake is lowered there, and all this is given to the client to drink in one gulp. The cobra is an expensive delicacy in Vietnam, costing about $50 (a non-venomous snake is cheaper), but it can feed three to four people. The restaurant is frequented by many Hanoians, who are very noisy by nature, so this is an institution for lovers of the exotic, rather than a quiet and romantic lunch. The restaurant is located about 10 km from the city center. The most convenient way to get there is by taxi. Address: No.4 Alley 82 Le Mat Street, Hanoi. french grill. French Grill is the most famous of JW Marriott Hanoi's 5 specialty restaurants. The restaurant has open kitchen and a bar specializing in french cuisine and grilled dishes. The restaurant has a modern interior, a good wine list and excellent service. The chef approaches and is interested in the opinion of the restaurant's visitors about the food. At the end of the evening, visitors are given salt as a souvenir. Opening hours: 17:30 - 22:30. Address: 8, Do Duc Duc Street, JW Marriott, Hanoi. brief information about the restaurant on the official website of the hotel www.marriott.com The Gourmet Corner Restaurant. The restaurant is located on the 12th (top) floor of the Hanoi Elegance Hotel, which offers beautiful view Hoan Kiem Lake and Red River. The view of the night lights of the city is especially impressive. The restaurant has a modern interior, live music plays in the evenings. In addition to Vietnamese and international cuisine, great emphasis is placed on vegetarian menu. There is also an open bar for drinks. Food and service at the highest level. Opening hours: lunch and dinner. Address: 32 Lo Su Str., Old Quarter, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi, website www.hanoielegancehotel.com Essence Restaurant. The restaurant is located on the first floor of the Essence Hanoi Hotel. Serves Vietnamese and European cuisine. The quality of food and service is top notch, well worth a visit. Address: 22 Ta Hien Street | Old Quarter, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi, website www.essencehanoihotel.com purple cherry. This is a small roof top restaurant in the Old Quarter (8th floor). The cuisine is represented by Vietnamese and European dishes, everything is very tasty and well cooked. The menu is extensive, the order is prepared quickly, the service is at a high level, the staff suggests and recommends the best dishes. From 15:00 to 19:00 discount time: buy 3 cocktails and get one for free. Smoking is allowed in the restaurant, but as it is located on the roof fresh air, this does not cause much discomfort to non-smokers. Address: 8th Floor, 10B Nguyen Quang Bich Street, French Old Quarter, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi, website.http://purple.cherryrestaurant.com Moose & Roo Pub & Grill. “Moose” (translated as “moose”) does not so much imply an animal as the Canadian citizenship of the owner of the establishment, Keith Tibert, who owned a cafe in his native Canada, and then moved to live in Vietnam. "Roo" is the name of the second business partner from Australia. One of the strengths of this restaurant is the sense of hospitality. Tibert is constantly among the guests of the restaurant, interested in opinions about food and service, the Vietnamese staff does the same. Even if the dish turns out so-so, the service is always at the highest level. The institution is recommended to lovers of steaks and burgers, which are prepared from New Zealand beef. The prices are quite high, but the quality matches. Wide selection of beers, including draft beer. Free Wi-Fi internet is an added bonus. Several TVs show sports channels. Address: 42b Ma May, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi. Namaste Hanoi. The cozy two-story Namaste Hanoi Restaurant serves Indian cuisine. Considered the best Indian restaurant in Hanoi. Even in weekdays in the evening it is always filled with visitors. Opening hours: lunch 11:00 - 14:30 last order at 14:00, dinner 18:00 - 22:30, last order at 22:00, open seven days a week. Address: 46 Tho Nhuom Street, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi, website www.namastehanoi.com If you are interested in Indian cuisine, visit one more good restaurant Little India, it is located at: 32 Hang Tre, Hanoi, site http://little-india-hn.com Jackson's Steakhouse. As the name suggests, the restaurant specializes in steaks. We use high quality angus beef from the USA, wagyu beef from Australia. Seafood is also a specialty at the Jacksons Steakhouse. The widest selection of wines from the Old and New Worlds. Restaurant on 4 floors. Lounge bar on the ground floor, dining rooms on the second and third floors serving steaks and seafood with an extensive wine list. The 4th floor is reserved for dinner parties and celebrations. The atmosphere and service are top notch. Recommended. Address: 23J Hai Ba Trung, Hanoi, www.jacksons-steakhouse.com El Gaucho. This is a restaurant Argentine cuisine. Modern restaurant serves the most popular meat dishes of Argentinean cuisine. Steak is the highlight of this restaurant. Meat for cooking steaks is imported from Australia and the USA. Always filled with clients. In addition to tenderloin, lamb chop or beef steak, the restaurant offers good card wines, pastries, fresh salads and desserts. If not steak lovers, there are fish dishes on the menu. Address: 99 Xuan Dieu Street, West Lake District, Hanoi. Address of the second institution: 11 Trang Tien Street, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi (two steps from Opera House). They also have their own restaurants in Ho Chi Minh City and plan to further develop their network throughout Vietnam. Site http://elgaucho.asia Giang Cafe. Vietnam is the world's second largest coffee exporter. Lack of coffee shops on tight streets There is no old city. But to find a coffee shop that has been making coffee with egg yolk (ca phe trung) since colonial times - there are only a few such establishments. Giang Cafe is one of them. It is located in a small alley on Nguyen Huu Huan Street in the Old Quarter of the city. Main ingredients: chicken egg yolk, Vietnamese coffee, sweetened condensed milk, butter and cheese. Coffee is brewed in a small filter cup, then a well-whipped mixture of egg yolk and other ingredients is added. The cup is placed in a bowl with hot water to keep the coffee piping hot. In addition to coffee, there are other drinks. Address: 39, Nguyen Huu Huan, Hanoi, www.giangcafehanoi.com Bun Bo Nam Bo. One of the best places in the capital to try Bún bo, a popular Vietnamese soup made from thin rice vermicelli (bún) and beef (bo). Compared to pho soup, the noodles are thicker and cylindrical in shape. The soup is made by boiling beef, then seasoned with a fermented shrimp sauce for flavor. Very hot chili oil is added later in the cooking process. Environment and the atmosphere is typical of a local establishment: noisy, crowded, little space, rubbish lying on the floor. However, the service is fast, the quality of the cuisine is beyond praise, and there are many repeat visitors among the visitors. Like it for sure, I advise. Address: 67 Hang Dieu, Hanoi, website www.bunbonambo.com Minh Thuy's Family Restaurant. Small family restaurant is famous for its quality service and delicious affordable cuisine. The menu includes traditional Vietnamese dishes, some European cuisine, fusion food (a combination of culinary traditions of East and West), excellent desserts, all of very high quality, portions are large. The owner personally controls almost every serving of dishes, the staff is polite and attentive. The only drawback is that it is quite hot (no air conditioning), the main advantage is tasty food at low prices. Address: 20 Ngo Huyen, Hanoi. Little Black Duck. The menu of this cozy place combines popular dishes of Vietnamese and European cuisine. "Little Black Duck" is located on 4 floors, from the cafe on the ground floor to the open area at the top. The menu is not extensive, but everything is delicious and reasonably priced. I recommend going upstairs and having dinner on the upper open area. Fast service, friendly and understanding staff English language. In a word, a good place to enjoy your time. Opening hours: 10:00 - 22:00 seven days a week. Address: 23 Ngo Gach, Hoan Kiem Distric, Dong Xuan Market, Old Quarter, Hanoi, website http://littleblackduckanoi.com La Badiane. Translated from French, "La Badiane" means "star anise". It is a small subtropical evergreen tree whose fruits are used as an essential spicy ingredient in many dishes. The flower of the "La Badiane" tree serves as the main decoration of the restaurant, the plants are nicely placed next to each table. The walls are also decorated with photographs of the flower of this plant. Although La Badiane is a French restaurant, customers can opt for Vietnamese dishes. Unlike other restaurants, "La Badiane" does not serve individual dishes, but offers a complex set of them. The restaurant is located in a beautiful French colonial villa on the outskirts of the Old Quarter. Everything is beautifully lit, great service, delicious food. Address: 10 Nam Ngu, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi, website www.labadiane-hanoi.com Hanoi Orchid Restaurant. The restaurant specializes in Vietnamese dishes and cooking classes. Two floors are reserved for a restaurant, and on two more floors they organize cooking classes. Actually, the restaurant is famous for its culinary master classes, which are organized in the morning and evening (09:00 - 12:30 or 15:30 - 19:30) every day. First, visit the local market, choose products, and then, under the guidance of the chef of the restaurant, start learning how to cook popular dishes local cuisine. The restaurant is located in the city center between Hoan Kiem Lake and Dong Xuan Market. Address: 25 Hang Bac street, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi, website www.cookingclass.vn KOTO. This is a special restaurant that employs former disadvantaged and homeless youth, that is, those that tourists should beware of in the first place. The initiative belonged to the Australian Jimmy Pham, he became friends with street children and decided to teach them how to cook. A year later, the chef and a group of his students opened the restaurant KOTO (an abbreviation of the English "Know One Teach One" in translation "learned by yourself, teach another"). Under the guidance of an Australian teacher, these street children have shown excellent results. A small eatery turned into a restaurant with 120 seats in just 5 years. There are almost no empty seats in the restaurant for lunch - it is so popular. To date, KOTO has become one of the largest and most famous restaurants in Hanoi. KOTO also has a restaurant in Ho Chi Minh City and has even been featured in documentary British Broadcasting Corporation BBC. The menu consists of Vietnamese, Chinese, European, American cuisine, prepared at relatively low prices, but tasty and with a high level of service. Wide selection of cakes and pastries for dessert. KOTO also organizes cooking classes every Monday evening. On the second floor there is a bar with a wide range of cocktails and fruit drinks, where you can enjoy free wifi the Internet. The third floor is dedicated to the life path of KOTO graduates. This Big hall can serve large groups of visitors from 50 to 150 people for organizing parties and other special occasions. On the roof of the fourth floor is open area overlooking the Temple of Literature. KOTO is open from 07:30 to 22:00. The restaurant is conveniently located next to the Temple of Literature, after lunch you can explore this famous landmark of the capital. Address: 59 Pho Van Mieu, Hanoi. Pots & Pans. This upscale restaurant and lounge bar is staffed by former KOTO alumni, once disadvantaged or homeless youth. Pots "n Pans is not a cheap restaurant. The decor, atmosphere, service standards and quality of the cuisine make it an upscale restaurant. Expect to pay $30-40 for a three-course meal plus drinks. Hardly ordinary tourist can afford to dine here every day, but it's definitely worth a try at least once. Address: 57 Bui Thi Xuan Street, Hai Ba Trung District, Hanoi, website http://potsnpans.vn Joma Bakery Cafe. The cafe is famous for freshly made cheese curds, quiches, cakes, cookies, ice cream, fine coffee and cocktails. Other light meals, sandwiches, salads are also prepared here. Run by a Canadian owner so service is quick and friendly. Joma Bakery Cafe donates 2% of each sale to charitable donations. People sit here with their laptops and use the free Wi-Fi internet. The cafe is not cheap by Hanoi standards, but if you want fast Wi-Fi, delicious local pastries, desserts and coffee, don't miss it. Opening hours: 07:00 - 19:30, Address: 22 Ly Quoc Su, Ba Dinh District, Hanoi (150 m from cathedral Saint Joseph), website www.joma.biz new day. Popular little restaurant in the Old Quarter. The high quality of Vietnamese cuisine and cheapness are the main advantages of this establishment. "New Day" looks rather unattractive at first glance, but the high level of food preparation and service sets it apart from other competitors. Address: 72 Ma May, Hanoi, Vietnam (north of Hoan Kiem Lake). green mango. On the ground floor of the Green Mango Hotel there is a restaurant of the same name. In addition to the menu of Vietnamese and European cuisine, the restaurant is famous for its dishes from green mango - a very popular fruit in Vietnam, becoming part of the name of this institution. Beautiful interior, serving dishes, serving, well-trained staff and truly delicious cuisine from fish and seafood to vegetables and meat dishes. Nice restaurant for a romantic dinner. Address: 18 Hang Quat Street, Green Mango Hotel, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi. Quan An Ngon. Having opened the first institution in 2005, Quan An Ngon now has 4 restaurants throughout the city. They also opened their network in Ho Chi Minh City and other cities in Vietnam. The name "Ngon" means "very tasty" - a simple but accurate definition of high quality cuisine. Quan An Ngon is one of the most affordable restaurants in Hanoi. Prices within $ 10 per client - agree, very affordable. Quan An Ngon serves dishes traditional for all regions of Vietnam. The interior is simple, noisy inside, there are a lot of tables, but often everything is busy and there is a queue of locals and tourists during peak hours - this is what this place is like. But the waiters serve quickly and efficiently, before ordering they will show what this or that dish is like, what it is made of. Leaving aside some minor flaws, this is a very good restaurant. Addresses: 18 Phan Boi Chau Street; Best time to visit Visitors visit Hanoi throughout the year, but the largest influx of tourists occurs during the summer months. This is rather strange, because in the summer, as a rule, in Hanoi bad weather It's raining, very hot and stuffy. Dry season from November to February. That is why it is considered favorable period for tourists. But winter in Hanoi is quite cool, the temperature can drop below +10 ºC. Tet (Vietnamese New Year) is the most important holiday in the country, accompanied by a large influx of tourists. The Vietnamese New Year is celebrated according to the lunisolar calendar in late January or early February. The rainy season begins in February, peaks in May, but continues throughout the summer. The average temperature in summer is +29 ºC, average temperature the coldest month of winter (December) +18.6 ºC. Accommodation Most tourists prefer to stay in the Old Quarter, where there is the widest choice of hotels, mostly inexpensive and oriented to the middle class. The French Quarter and the West Lake area have many luxury hotels. Hotels sightseeing |
And the business fuss of today. According to the magazine Travel & Leisure, Hanoi is included in the list of the 10 most interesting Asian cities from a tourist point of view.
Hanoi is located on the banks red river, and in translation the name of the capital means "a city between two rivers." The city acquired its current name only in 1831, and until that time it was called Thang Long, that is, "the stronghold of the flying dragon."
Hanoi can be safely called the most beautiful city Vietnam: there are many ancient temples and pagodas and the French colonial influence is still felt, besides, the city was not spoiled by the socialist building of the 1970-80s.
The capital of Vietnam is of interest primarily to those who appreciate the rich sightseeing vacation. There are many historical and cultural attractions here. But there are no beaches at all: from the city to the ocean about a hundred kilometers. Nevertheless, there is no shortage of entertainment here, while tourism infrastructure very developed. The very atmosphere of Hanoi is attractive - travelers fall in love with this city at first sight.
Climate and weather
The climate of Hanoi allows travelers to come to this city all year round, however best time spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October) are considered for the visit.
In the capital of Vietnam, the dry and wet seasons are clearly distinguished. The wet season lasts from May to early October. During these months it is very hot in Hanoi (up to +39 °C) and heavy rains. In September, the weather changes: clear days come, the air temperature drops to a comfortable (+30 ° C), a light cool wind blows.
The dry season lasts from late October to April. At this time, it is cool in Hanoi (in December the air temperature is +14...+16 °C, in January it can drop to +8 °C), precipitation is very rare.
In April and May the weather is sunny, the air warms up to +30..+35 °C.
Nature
The nature of Hanoi and its environs cannot but impress. Surprising is the fact that there are about a hundred lakes in the city itself. These are, first of all, natural lakes, such as, for example, Lake of the Returned Sword, Chukbat and Thien Quang Lakes, West Lake. Also in the capital there are many artificial lakes that refresh the city in the summer heat: Ngoc Khanh, Van, Thanh Cong and others. The lakes form the unique scenic landscape of Hanoi.
Attractions
Hanoi is a storehouse of attractions: there are more than 600 pagodas and temples, each of which has its own history. In the architecture of the city, Chinese and Chinese merge in amazing harmony. french styles, and even socialist monuments, suddenly appearing against the backdrop of pagodas and palaces, do not violate it.
Without exception, travelers strive to see One Pillar Pagoda (Chua Mot Cot), which was built in 1049 by order of Emperor Li Thai Tong. Nowadays, it is also a place of pilgrimage for childless couples who come here to pray to the gods to give them children.
In the Old Quarter is memorial ComplexMausoleum of Ho Chi Minh, one of the four mausoleums operating on the planet. It is the national shrine of the Vietnamese. The body of Ho Chi Minh lies in a glass sarcophagus, which is surrounded by a guard of honor in snow-white military uniforms. You can visit the Mausoleum from December to October on all days except Monday and Friday. The Mausoleum is open from 08:00 to 11:00.
Among the temples, the most famous is considered Quan Thanh temple, which is located near West Lake. It is dedicated to the legendary sage Chan Wu, who, according to legend, drove out a ghost that interfered with the construction of a fortification in the town of Ko Loa. The temple was erected in the 11th century, and a 4-meter statue of Chang Wu, cast in black bronze in 1677, sitting barefoot with a sword in his hand, has survived to this day.
Hanoi has several interesting museums. Recommended to visit Ethnographical museum, the Museum of the History of the Vietnam War and the Museum of Women.
Nutrition
In terms of gastronomy, Hanoi is a real cosmopolitan: cafes and restaurants thrive in the local culinary traditions cuisines around the world. Here you can enjoy the masterpieces of Italian, French, Indian, Chinese, Spanish, Thai and even Ukrainian cuisine. And of course, there are a lot of establishments in the city where you will be offered delicious national dishes.
Worth a try pho soup beef with rice noodles, lotus rice, fried seafood and rice flour pancakes. The most daring gourmets are also waiting for a real exotic in the form of fried grasshoppers or roast snakes.
In traditional establishments, it is customary to use chopsticks, but a fork and knife will also be brought to you if you ask.
The best restaurants in Hanoi are concentrated in the area Quan Thanh streets(Quan Thanh). But be prepared for the fact that the luxurious interior and the sophistication of the dishes will also be reflected in the amount on the bill. The cost of an average dinner per person in high-end restaurants is $20-30.
But in small colorful Hanoi cafes, everything is very cheap, authentic Vietnamese cuisine here does not hit the wallet and pleases the stomach. In addition, there are a great many coffee houses in Hanoi: the townspeople are very fond of drinking a cup of aromatic coffee with croissants (the French influence on coffee traditions in Hanoi is very strong).
Accommodation
Hanoi has a wide range of accommodation options, from luxurious five-star hotels to modest guest houses and family-run half boards.
Interestingly, it is not necessary to leave the city center if there is a need for decent affordable housing. The Old Town is full of decent hotels with all amenities, and the cost of living here varies between $ 10-40 per person.
And the most famous hotel is "Metropol-Hanoi". His luxurious apartments are reminiscent of French Indochina. The hotel has a rich history: comedian Charlie Chaplin, French President Jacques Chirac stayed here, and writer Graham Greene is said to have worked as a bartender. Guests have to pay for luxury and history: room rates start at $600-700.
Entertainment and recreation
Hanoi traditionally amazes tourists with the variety of entertainment offered.
Very popular here sea cruises. The most sought after, of course, to Halong Bay. Mostly one-day cruises are offered. The trip includes landing, walking through ancient caves, swimming in the bay and visiting an unusual floating village.
lovers water activities and families with children will appreciate Hanoi's huge Dam Sen water park. The playground, for example, offers rides such as Multislide, Fountain Square, Kamikaze, and Wave Lake. There are attractions for adults too.
While in Hanoi, don't miss the water puppet show. Particularly famous for its art theater troupe "Thang Long". The plots of the plays are usually simple, but the spectacle of the action captivates both children and adults.
For fans active species holidays in Hanoi there are safari tours around the area, diving, kiting and windsurfing in the Halong Bay area.
Purchases
Hanoi always surprises shoppers amazingly low prices and range of goods. The main rule is to bargain. At the same time, you need to respect the seller, politely justify the price reduction, and the result of the bargain will please you: even in shopping centers you can buy things 25-50% lower than the declared value, and even in markets and small shops you can bring down the price by 2-3 times!
The quality of local products will also pleasantly surprise you. Shoes made of genuine leather are especially valued, which, by the way, is exported to Europe and the USA. Also, tourists buy clothes and accessories made of silk, jewelry made of gold and silver, natural pearls.
The main "fish" shopping places are concentrated in the center of Hanoi. There are many craft workshops and shops in the Old Quarter, where you can find a wide variety of souvenirs, interior items and even works of art. You should definitely visit the Silk Village, which is located 10 km from Hanoi: it is the most profitable place to buy silk products. From modern shopping centers Most Popular - Vincom City Towers and Trang Tien Plaza.
Transport
Public transport in Hanoi is represented by buses. True, the routes are very confusing, and the schedule is not always respected. Tourists are advised to use the services of private small minibuses, which are much more comfortable, while the fare is not significantly higher. The average bus fare in Hanoi is approximately $0.1-0.3.
Bicycle and motor rickshaws are very popular. A 15-minute ride will cost $2.
The most convenient way, of course, is to travel by taxi. In Hanoi, it will not be a problem to catch a car, but we recommend using the services of official taxis, otherwise there is a risk of paying for a trip at a double or even triple rate. Remember that it is better to negotiate the fare before boarding.
Be careful when crossing the road in Hanoi: drivers here never give way to pedestrians, even at zebra crossings or traffic lights.
If you want to rent a car in Hanoi, be prepared for the fact that you will have to take a car with a driver: there are no international driving licenses. And although foreigners are very rarely checked, in the event of an accident, the fault is clearly shifted to the guest of the country. So a Vietnamese driver will save you from problems on the road, while his presence will hardly affect the cost of renting.
Connection
To call abroad, in Hanoi, you can use both street payphones and the services of special call centers. From hotels it is also possible to call anywhere in the world, but it will cost many times more.
To call from Hanoi to Russia, you need to dial 007, then the area code and the subscriber's number.
Mobile communication is actively used in the capital of Vietnam. For Russian tourists there are no inconveniences, since the operators Beeline, MTS and Megafon have agreements with Vietnamese companies. In addition, you can purchase a SIM card from one of the local mobile operators (Vietnamobile, G-Tel, MobiFone, Viettel Mobile, S-Fone, VinaFone). The card costs about $5 and already includes 30 minutes for local calls.
There will also be no problems with the Internet in Hanoi. Internet access is available in almost all hotels, and there are numerous Internet cafes in the city, where a full range of services is provided.
Safety
In Hanoi, the safety of tourists is ensured at the proper level. But still, as in any metropolis, there is a certain risk of becoming a victim of scammers. Tourists may experience pickpocketing, especially in crowded places. It is best not to carry large cash and documents with you.
Never drink tap water - buy drinking water V plastic bottles and check the integrity of the package before opening. Wash vegetables and fruits with disinfected water. Avoid drinks with ice - it can be made from running water.
Business climate
capital of Vietnam and modern metropolis, Hanoi cannot but attract investors from other countries. And although the undisputed leadership in the business sphere belongs to " southern capital» Ho Chi Minh City, the number of new companies in Hanoi is steadily growing.
The influx of foreign investment in Hanoi is facilitated by such factors as cheap labor, a stable political environment, non-interference of the state in the activities of enterprises. Investments in construction are considered the most profitable commercial real estate and development of tourism infrastructure.
On the other hand, opening a business in Hanoi is not as easy as it might seem, if only because the country is in 99th place in the world in terms of the complexity of the procedure for registering and obtaining licenses. And despite the fact that foreigners are not threatened by many bureaucratic obstacles, in Lately in Hanoi, there is a decline in business activity. At the Vietnam Business Forum 2012, which was held in Hanoi in early December, it was noted that the degree of confidence in business circles has significantly decreased. The Vietnam Chamber of Commerce and Industry has expressed concern over the fact that 15,000 foreign entrepreneurs are not planning to expand their business at present. In this situation, the Vietnamese government announced its intention to take measures to support business, including the optimization of the legal system, tax cuts and the provision of preferential loans. Therefore, in the near future, the business climate of Hanoi may become more attractive to foreigners.
Real estate
The interest of investors in real estate in Hanoi is understandable: the capital of Vietnam is developing. Today it is not only the political center of the country, but also a large modern metropolis. There is a large-scale construction of shopping centers, hotels, office buildings, social housing. Back in 2008, the National Assembly passed a law thanks to which the territory of Hanoi grew 3 times at the expense of nearby provinces. The reconstruction of the city began and the active construction of housing and commercial real estate continued. However, the bankruptcy of a number of major players in the market led to the fact that real estate prices at the end of 2011 fell by 25%. Currently, the price reduction continues, the cost of 1 m 2 of housing averages $ 1,700. Analysts predict that the trend will continue in 2013.
Investors wishing to invest in Hanoi real estate must be patient. But in the long term, investments in the construction of tourist complexes and apartments will pay off in full. It should only be borne in mind that a foreigner can only purchase an apartment and only for 50 years (in fact, all purchase and sale transactions in Vietnam are long-term lease agreements), then it must be sold or donated. Wherein Foreign citizens must either be married to a Vietnamese citizen, or invest in the country's economy, or work in strategic enterprises. By the way, having bought an apartment, a foreigner must live in it himself - it is impossible to rent out such living space.
The locals are quite tolerant and friendly towards tourists, but remember that many things that are familiar to us here can be considered an insult. For example, it is extremely indecent to walk around the city in beachwear. And if you plan to visit a temple, shoulders and legs should be covered. Before entering Buddhist temple take off your shoes and leave them outside. You can not turn your back to the temple when leaving it.
Photographing Vietnamese is not allowed without prior permission. For him, by the way, most likely, you will have to pay.
Tipping in government hotels and restaurants is usually included in the bill at a rate of 5%. In private establishments, promotion is usually left to the discretion of the client.
Keep in mind that only foreigners can gamble in Hanoi and only in special establishments. An attempt to involve the Vietnamese in the game is punishable by criminal prosecution.
Special attention in Hanoi deserves the problem of street trading and incredible obsession local population. Although the city authorities are trying to limit the presence of merchants with bales and trunks for at least central streets, you are unlikely to be able to avoid persistent offers to buy the “most beautiful” product here and now. If you don’t want problems, don’t respond to calls and don’t contact such sellers: at best, buy low-quality products, and at worst, you won’t notice how great you are cheated.
— Big City"between the lakes" as they call it locals, and the capital of Vietnam since 1954, which is located on the banks of the Red River.
It is the political, economic and also cultural center of the country. Interestingly, it is also a city with rich history- so, Hanoi was founded in the distant XI century.
Structurally, Hanoi consists of 9 districts, each of which has its own unique flavor. In addition, Hanoi also includes suburbs - Son Tay and Hadong. 
As a rule, tourists arrive in the capital of Vietnam to explore and go further on a tour of Vietnam. In particular, from Hanoi it is convenient to get to the bay, to mountain resort Sana'a and other resorts in Vietnam.
Let us clarify that Hanoi is located 100 km from the ocean, so it attracts travelers not with a beach holiday, but with rich excursion programs.
It should be added that many and are open in Hanoi, so tourists can safely spend a few days in the capital and then continue their journey through Vietnam.
Video from Hanoi
Hanoi offers tourists many interesting sights. So, the main attractions of Hanoi are numerous religious sites, for example, the Chua Mot Kot pagoda near another attraction of Hanoi - the Ho Chi Minh mausoleum, the Tran Quoc pagoda, the oldest in all of Vietnam. The Quan Thanh temple is also interesting, ...
Hanoi Tours & Activities
Most popular excursions in Hanoi, these are, of course, sightseeing tours of the capital of Vietnam. Let us clarify that within sightseeing tour it will be interesting for tourists to see such sights of Hanoi as the tomb of Kinh Thien, pedestrian bridge Long Bien, the remains of Quan Thanh, the ancient defensive system of Hanoi and many other interesting objects.
Other interesting excursions Hanoi - a visit to the puppet theater and a fascinating evening performance, a visit to Hoa Binh, an excursion to the Fragrant Pagoda from Hanoi.
Things to do in Hanoi
main view sport in Hanoi is cycling or scootering. More precisely, for Hanoi, this is not only a hobby, but also the most familiar form of transport. By renting a scooter in Hanoi, you will not only have fun, but also get a great opportunity to see the many sights of Hanoi.
The nightlife in Hanoi is extremely active. Here you can always find a late-night bar or night club. Tourists who love colorful shows are recommended to watch the performance of the puppet theater on the water.
Transport features of Hanoi
The main form of transport in Hanoi is a scooter, which can be easily rented. However, be careful - the traffic in Hanoi is very busy!
You can also take a taxi in Hanoi. It will cost the tourist $1-1.5 for getting into a taxi, and then you will have to pay from 6 to 10 cents per 1 km.
At a distance of 2 km from the city center is located bus station. Available in the capital and South Bus Station from where buses start to the south of the country.
Note that renting a car in Hanoi is rather pointless, since moving around the city by car is very inconvenient. By the way, international driver license are not recognized in Vietnam.
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Hanoi is the capital of Vietnam and one of its largest cities. Located in the north of the country, on the banks of the Red River (Hongha). total area 3 345 sq. km (ranks second in this indicator), the population is 6,500,000 people. It is the political, educational and cultural center of the country.
Hanoi is one of the main centers excursion tourism Vietnam. The sea is not here, but a large number of attractions, primarily man-made - pagodas, temples, museums. It is also an excellent starting point for traveling around (declared by UNESCO natural monument) and to the mountain.
Outwardly, Hanoi does not much resemble the capital, for example, Ho Chi Minh City has many more high-rise buildings and large shopping centers. Moreover, they are concentrated there near the tourist area, while here the main shopping places and skyscrapers are located away from it. But in the capital more natural beauties, namely picturesque lakes. It's worth coming here just for them. Some of the most beautiful are West Lake and Truc Bach.
The city is very large, but for foreigners, only a small area around the Lake of the Returned Sword, as well as to the west and north of it, are of interest. It is here that the main attractions, museums, hotels, restaurants, bars and other infrastructure are compactly concentrated. This part of Hanoi has a very dense building, the houses are close to each other, the streets are narrow. It is not surprising for the capital, but there are much fewer people and transport here than in the same Ho Chi Minh City.
Story
Already 2000 years ago there were settlements here. In 866, the Daila fortress was built in these parts. In 1010, Emperor Li Thai To ordered the construction of a city next to the fortress and the transfer of the capital of the state of Daikovet from Hoaly. It is from this date that it is customary to consider the countdown of the history of Hanoi as a city. At first it was called "Thanglong" ("Flying Dragon"), then " Eastern capital"- Dongdo, and only since 1831, by decree of Emperor Ming Mang, did he receive modern name, which translates as "Located in the river valley." And this is a very accurate definition, since the Red River is located nearby.
The city was the capital of Vietnam until 1397 when it was moved to Thanh Hoa. In the 14th and 15th centuries there were continuous wars with China. In 1408 they captured him, but in 1428 he was released.
In 1873, the colonial period begins in history. Hanoi was the capital of French Indochina from 1902 to 1953. Since then, many buildings of that era and Christian churches have been preserved here.
In the 1920s the city was the center of the national liberation movement. During World War II, it was captured by the Japanese. In 1945 - proclaimed Democratic Republic Vietnam, and Hanoi is its capital. But the French did not want to part with their colony, so for the next 8 years there were clashes that finally ended only by 1954.
During Vietnam War subjected to frequent US air attacks. In 1973, the Peace of Paris was signed. Restoration work has begun in the city. On July 2, 1976, the Socialist Republic of Vietnam was formed and Hanoi became its capital.
According to the popular Travel + Leisure magazine, in 2006 Hanoi was included in the list of the ten most attractive cities in Asia for sightseeing tourism.
October 1 - 10, 2010 celebrated the centenary of the capital of Vietnam.
Hanoi city on the map of Vietnam and the world
How to get there
Why go
Anyone who wants to get to know the history, culture and traditions of Vietnam is worth going to Hanoi. Nowhere else in the country you will find so many museums in one place, as well as the proximity of temples of various faiths.
The city is also suitable for shopping, only large shopping centers will have to be reached by transport from the tourist area.
Nightlife is also present, there are a sufficient number of bars, clubs, massage parlors and the so-called "Karaoke", where intimate services are offered under the guise of singing. But still, all these entertainments are much less than in the southern capital of Vietnam - Ho Chi Minh City, and for the sake of them you should not go here.
Hanoi offers many excursions around the area, primarily to fragrant pagoda, () And . If you want to see all this, then it will be your starting point for a trip to the north of the country.
But for the lovers beach holiday there is nothing to do here, since the capital is located more than 100 km from the coast.
Attractions
Attractions - this is the main thing for which tourists go to Hanoi. Their total number is so large that it will not be possible to see everything in a short vacation time. Therefore, it is worth limiting yourself to a dozen or two, located in tourist area. Here they are located compactly, the distance between the most distant ones is 3-4 km, between neighboring ones - a hundred or two meters.
First of all, in Hanoi, you should see the Lake of the Returned Sword with the Ngoc Son temple in its northern part.
Next, you should go west from it, for railway. There is the mausoleum and museum of Ho Chi Minh City, the One Pillar Pagoda, the Citadel, Royal Palace, Temple of Literature, Army Museum, Art Museum and Parks. To the north of them is the largest and beautiful lake capital - Western, next to which there are two temples.
Other sights of Hanoi - Puppet show, opera, several Catholic churches and museums: National Museum history, Vietnamese Revolution, Women's and others.
Climate
In Hanoi, the climate is officially called subequatorial monsoon. It is more similar to subtropical in terms of annual temperatures. The most comfortable time is from October to the beginning of April, when the thermometer shows +20…+25 during the day. At night from December to February it can be +10…+14. Therefore, you should take warm clothes. There is very little precipitation at this time.
The rest of the period is not very comfortable: from mid-April to mid-May there is a real heat at +34 ... +36, the sun shines, which heats the air even more. It is quite possible to get heat stroke if you walk for several hours in a row. At night +26…+28.
From the end of May to the beginning of October in Hanoi is the rainy season. It cools the air somewhat, and the clouds do not allow the surface to heat up much. Nevertheless, the street is not less than +30, plus high humidity and rain. All this complicates sightseeing holidays (however, if you wear a raincoat, then precipitation is not terrible).
* Data provided by the Yandex.Weather service.
Hotels
It is worth settling in Hanoi in the tourist area, as it is located close to the main attractions. It is here that almost all hotels, travel agencies, motorbike and bicycle rentals, restaurants, bars, ATMs, etc. are located. This area is located around the Lake of the Returned Sword. Infrastructure is most strongly developed to the north and west of it.
Housing here is for every taste, but it should be borne in mind that the houses are close to each other, so many windows overlook neighboring ones located a meter away. Many rooms do not have windows at all, or they face the corridor. Separately standing building, next to which there are no other buildings, it is almost impossible to find in this area. So get ready for the fact that the view from the window will be unimportant.
Prices for Hanoi hotels start from about $15-16. You can stay cheaper in guesthouses, for 12-15 (although there are those that cost 20-25). Most inexpensive option- hostels (hostels), where a bed will be $ 8-10. Finding something cheaper is unrealistic, there are no numbers for 5-7 bucks.
We would recommend settling to the west and northwest of the Lake of the Returned Sword, since from there it is only a 15-minute walk to the main attractions: the mausoleum and museum of Ho Chi Minh City, the Temple of Literature, the Citadel and 5 minutes to the lake. From the northern part to them to go two times longer, and from the southern and eastern - three times.
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