Hanoi: Full-Day City Highlights Tour With Hoa Lo Prison

Hanoi’s captivating history comes alive on this comprehensive tour. Travelers explore the city’s storied past, from the somber Hoa Lo Prison to the revered Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum. Along the way, they’ll discover architectural gems like the One Pillar Pagoda and the tranquil Tran Quoc Temple. With an expert guide, a traditional Vietnamese lunch, and convenient transportation, this full-day adventure offers an immersive exploration of Hanoi’s most iconic sites. What secrets of the past will this tour unveil?

Good To Know

• This full-day Hanoi city tour covers key historical and cultural attractions, including the Hoa Lo Prison, Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, One Pillar Pagoda, and Tran Quoc Temple.
• The tour provides insights into Vietnam’s history and cultural heritage through an English-speaking guide and allows for local cultural experiences and souvenir shopping.
• Pricing ranges from $36.60 to $34.77 per person, with up to 5% savings available and a reservation option with a pay later feature.
• Inclusions cover hotel pick-up and drop-off, air-conditioned transportation, all entrance fees, a traditional Vietnamese lunch, and bottled water.
• Important notes include dress code requirements, comfortable walking shoes, and communication of dietary restrictions to the operator in advance.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Highlights

This full-day city tour in Hanoi allows visitors to explore the city’s top attractions.

The tour includes visits to Hoa Lo Prison, Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, One Pillar Pagoda, and Tran Quoc Temple. Guests will also experience a traditional Vietnamese lunch at a local restaurant and stroll through Hanoi’s bustling Old Quarter.

The tour duration is approximately 7:30 AM to 5:00 PM. Highlights include immersing in local culture, shopping for souvenirs, and gaining insights from an English-speaking guide.

Transportation and entrance fees are included, while personal expenses and tips are not.

Pricing and Booking Information

The tour is priced from $36.60 to $34.77 per person, with up to 5% in savings available. Travelers can reserve the tour and pay later. Free cancellation is offered up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. However, holiday surcharges of 100,000 VND apply for specific dates in 2025 and 2026, payable on-site.

| Pricing & Booking | |

|—————–|——————–|

| Price Range | $36.60 – $34.77 per person |

| Discount | Up to 5% savings |

| Payment Options | Reserve now, pay later |

| Cancellation | Free up to 24 hours |

| Holiday Surcharge | 100,000 VND on select dates |

Inclusions and Transportation

The tour includes hotel pick-up and drop-off from locations in Hanoi’s Old Quarter.

Hotel pick-up and drop-off from locations in Hanoi’s Old Quarter are included in the tour package.

Transportation is provided via air-conditioned vehicles, and all entrance fees to the sites are covered.

An English-speaking guide accompanies the group throughout the day, providing insights and information.

A traditional Vietnamese lunch is included, along with bottled water.

However, personal expenses and tips for the guide and driver aren’t part of the package.

Guests should inform the tour operator of any dietary restrictions in advance to ensure their needs are accommodated during the included meal.

Important Notes and Recommendations

Visitors should dress modestly when visiting the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and Temple of Literature.

Comfortable walking shoes and water are recommended, as the tour involves significant walking.

Check weather conditions and pack accordingly.

Smoking and flash photography aren’t allowed in the vehicles during the tour.

Guests with dietary restrictions should inform the operator in advance. This will help ensure their needs are accommodated during the traditional Vietnamese lunch.

Following these guidelines will help ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience on the Hanoi City Highlights Tour.

More Great Tours Nearby

Hoa Lo Prison: A Haunting Legacy

Although the Hoa Lo Prison stands as a sobering reminder of Vietnam’s turbulent past, its legacy extends far beyond the confines of its unforgiving walls.

Once known as the "Hanoi Hilton" by American prisoners of war, this notorious facility has become a symbol of the Vietnamese people’s resilience and unwavering spirit in the face of adversity.

Visitors can explore the eerie cells, halls, and gallows that once held captive some of the most prominent figures in Vietnam’s history.

The Hoa Lo Prison offers a haunting yet insightful glimpse into the country’s struggle for independence and the immense sacrifices made along the way.

Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum: Honoring the Father of the Nation

Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum stands as a revered monument, honoring the legacy of Vietnam’s beloved revolutionary leader and first president, Ho Chi Minh.

Visitors can witness the imposing granite structure and pay respects to the preserved remains of "Uncle Ho." Guides provide insight into Ho’s life and contributions to the country’s independence.

The mausoleum complex also includes the Presidential Palace, Ho’s former home, and the One Pillar Pagoda.

Strict security measures and dress code requirements must be observed. Though lines can be long, experiencing this iconic site offers a profound connection to Vietnam’s history and national identity.

One Pillar Pagoda: A Unique Architectural Gem

Nestled within the lush gardens of the Hanoi tour, the One Pillar Pagoda stands as a captivating architectural jewel.

Constructed in the 11th century, this iconic structure features a single stone pillar that appears to support a wooden temple above a lotus pond.

Constructed in the 11th century, this iconic structure features a single stone pillar supporting a wooden temple above a lotus pond.

The pagoda’s unique design, inspired by a dream of the revered Emperor Ly Thai Tong, symbolizes the growth of Vietnamese Buddhism.

Visitors are drawn to the site’s tranquil atmosphere and the opportunity to witness this remarkable feat of engineering and spiritual significance.

The One Pillar Pagoda remains a cherished symbol of Hanoi’s rich cultural heritage.

Tran Quoc Temple: Spiritual Serenity in the City

Situated along the western shore of West Lake, the Tran Quoc Temple stands as one of the oldest Buddhist sanctuaries in Hanoi. Its origins date back to the 6th century, with the current structure rebuilt in the 17th century.

The temple’s elegant curved roofs and serene lake setting create a tranquil atmosphere, inviting visitors to pause and reflect. Ornate carvings and intricate architecture showcase the temple’s rich cultural heritage.

As one of the top sites on the Hanoi city tour, Tran Quoc Temple offers a peaceful respite from the bustling city, allowing travelers to connect with Vietnam’s spiritual traditions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Extend the Tour to Include a Water Puppet Show?

Yes, you can extend the tour to include a water puppet show. This would provide an opportunity to experience a traditional Vietnamese art form and further immerse in the local culture during your day in Hanoi.

Is There an Option to Visit a Local Family’s Home?

The tour doesn’t currently offer a visit to a local family’s home. However, some Hanoi tours provide an opportunity to experience Vietnamese culture firsthand by visiting a private residence and interacting with a local family.

How Much Extra Time Is Needed for Shopping in the Old Quarter?

The tour allows about 1-2 hours for shopping in Hanoi’s Old Quarter, providing ample time to explore the local shops and immerse in the vibrant culture. However, visitors can extend this segment based on their shopping interests.

Can the Tour Be Customized to Include a Visit to Bat Trang Ceramic Village?

Yes, the tour can be customized to include a visit to Bat Trang Ceramic Village. Customers can speak with the tour operator to request this addition and adjust the itinerary accordingly, though it may incur an extra cost.

Is There a Discount for Booking the Tour as Part of a Multi-Day Package?

Yes, there’s a discount for booking the Hanoi city tour as part of a multi-day package. Customers can save up to 5% when they combine the one-day tour with other activities in the area.

The Sum Up

This comprehensive Hanoi tour provides a deep dive into Vietnam’s rich history and culture. Visitors will explore iconic sites, including the poignant Hoa Lo Prison, the revered Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, the stunning One Pillar Pagoda, and the tranquil Tran Quoc Temple. With a traditional Vietnamese lunch and an English-speaking guide, this tour offers a well-rounded experience for those seeking to enjoy Hanoi’s vibrant heritage.

You can check availability for your dates here: