Hanoi’s vibrant culture and rich history come alive on this guided full-day city tour. Explore iconic sites like the Ho Chi Minh Complex and the ancient Tran Quoc Pagoda. Explore Vietnamese heritage at the Ethnology Museum and uncover the past at the Hoa Lo Prison Museum. With a delicious local lunch, air-conditioned transportation, and free cancellation, it’s an immersive experience that promises an unforgettable day in Vietnam’s captivating capital. What makes this tour stand out, and how can it enhance your understanding of Hanoi’s enduring legacy?

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Key Points

Comprehensive full-day tour exploring Hanoi’s highlights, including Ho Chi Minh Complex, One Pillar Pagoda, Vietnam Ethnology Museum, and local Vietnamese cuisine.
Discover Hanoi’s oldest pagoda, Tran Quoc Pagoda, with its architectural beauty and serene gardens overlooking West Lake.
Visit the Temple of Literature, Vietnam’s first university, to learn about Confucian traditions and experience well-preserved traditional Vietnamese architecture.
Explore the Hoa Lo Prison Museum, also known as the "Hanoi Hilton," to gain historical insights into the hardships faced by revolutionaries and POWs.
Tour is priced from 1,171 CZK per person, includes knowledgeable guide, entrance fees, lunch, and air-conditioned transportation, with a free cancellation policy.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The Hanoi City Tour offers a full-day exploration of the Vietnamese capital.

Explore the vibrant Vietnamese capital with the Hanoi City Tour, a full-day immersion in the heart of the city.

Priced from 1,171 CZK per person, the tour includes a knowledgeable guide, entrance fees, a Vietnamese lunch, and transportation by air-conditioned vehicle.

Guests can take advantage of the free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. A reserve now, pay later option is also available.

The tour isn’t suitable for children under 5 or wheelchair users, and modest dress is required for religious sites.

Restrictions on smoking and flash photography apply in certain areas.

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Tour Highlights

The Hanoi City Tour offers a range of highlights for visitors to explore.

At the Ho Chi Minh Complex, guests can see the embalmed body of the iconic revolutionary leader. Nearby, the One Pillar Pagoda honors the Goddess of Mercy.

The Vietnam Ethnology Museum showcases the diverse cultures of the country’s 54 ethnic groups. After a local Vietnamese lunch, the tour visits the Hoa Lo Prison Museum, known as the "Hanoi Hilton."

The Temple of Literature, Vietnam’s first university from the 11th century, provides a glimpse into the nation’s storied history.

Itinerary Details

After meeting the guide, the tour begins at Tran Quoc Pagoda, the oldest pagoda in Hanoi dating back to the 6th century and located on Golden Fish Island.

Next, visitors explore the Ho Chi Minh Complex, including his former residences.

The group then visits the Vietnam Ethnology Museum to learn about the country’s 54 ethnic groups.

Following a Vietnamese lunch, the tour continues to the historical Temple of Literature and Hoa Lo Prison Museum, also known as the "Hanoi Hilton".

Throughout the day, the air-conditioned vehicle provides transportation, and a friendly guide shares insights about the sites.

Tran Quoc Pagoda

Tran Quoc Pagoda, the oldest pagoda in Hanoi, dates back to the 6th century and sits on Golden Fish Island. This iconic Buddhist temple is famous for its architectural beauty and spiritual significance.

Visitors can explore:

The central tower, a classic example of Vietnamese temple architecture with tiled roofs, carved decorations, and bronze bells.
The serene gardens surrounding the pagoda, offering a peaceful respite from the bustling city.
The intricate carvings and statues adorning the temple’s interior, each with its own symbolic meaning.
The stunning views of West Lake, providing a picturesque backdrop to the historical site.

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Ho Chi Minh Complex

As visitors enter the Ho Chi Minh Complex, they’re greeted by the grand Ba Dinh Square, where the iconic Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum stands. The mausoleum houses the embalmed body of Ho Chi Minh, Vietnam’s revered revolutionary leader.

Nearby, Ho’s former residence, the simple stilt house where he lived, offers a glimpse into his modest lifestyle. The complex also includes the Presidential Palace, Ho Chi Minh Museum, and the One Pillar Pagoda, an iconic Buddhist temple built in the 11th century.

Exploring these historic sites offers an insightful look into Vietnam’s past and the legacy of its most influential figure.

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Vietnam Ethnology Museum

The Vietnam Ethnology Museum offers visitors a comprehensive exploration of the rich cultural diversity of Vietnam’s 54 ethnic groups.

Visitors can discover:

Unique traditional costumes, jewelry, and handicrafts from each of Vietnam’s 54 ethnic minority groups await visitors at the Vietnam Ethnology Museum.

Unique traditional costumes, jewelry, and handicrafts from each ethnic minority.
Detailed exhibits showcasing the distinct customs, beliefs, and lifestyles of Vietnam’s diverse indigenous communities.
Immersive experiences, such as touring traditional stilt houses and attending cultural performances, providing deeper insights into the country’s vibrant heritage.
Opportunities to engage with knowledgeable guides and learn about the challenges faced by ethnic minorities in modern Vietnam.

Lunch at a Local Restaurant

After exploring the cultural richness of Vietnam’s ethnic groups at the Ethnology Museum, the tour takes guests to savor a delectable Vietnamese lunch featuring eight distinct dishes.

At a local restaurant, the menu showcases a variety of flavors and cooking techniques that embody the diversity of Vietnamese cuisine. From fragrant rice dishes to fresh spring rolls, the lunch offers a satisfying and authentic culinary experience.

Guests can relish the flavors while learning about the regional differences and traditional recipes that have been passed down through generations. The lunch provides a well-rounded culture during the Hanoi city tour.

Historical Sites: Temple of Literature and Hoa Lo Prison Museum

Following the satisfying Vietnamese lunch, the tour continues to explore two of Hanoi’s most significant historical sites – the Temple of Literature and the Hoa Lo Prison Museum.

The Temple of Literature, founded in 1076, is Vietnam’s first university and a prime example of well-preserved traditional Vietnamese architecture. Visitors can learn about Confucian traditions and appreciate the serene gardens.

The Hoa Lo Prison Museum, infamously known as the "Hanoi Hilton", provides a chilling glimpse into the hardships endured by Vietnamese revolutionaries and American prisoners of war. This museum offers a thought-provoking historical perspective.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Maximum Group Size for This Tour?

The tour description does not specify a maximum group size. However, it notes the tour may not be suitable for children under 5 and wheelchair users, suggesting a relatively small group size for a personalized experience.

Are There Any Age Restrictions or Accessibility Requirements?

This tour isn’t suitable for children under 5 or wheelchair users. Modest dress is required for religious sites. Guests should wear comfortable shoes and bring sun protection.

Can We Make Any Special Dietary Requests for the Lunch?

Yes, you can make special dietary requests for the lunch. The tour provider accommodates various dietary needs, such as vegetarian, vegan, or halal options, upon prior request. Just let them know your requirements when booking the tour.

Is Photography Allowed Inside the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum?

Photography is not allowed inside the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum. Visitors must remove their hats and observe strict silence and modest attire when viewing the embalmed body of Ho Chi Minh. Flash photography is prohibited throughout the complex.

Are There Any Additional Fees or Taxes Not Included in the Price?

The tour price does not include any additional fees or taxes. The only costs not covered are tips, personal expenses, and hotel pickup/drop-off. All other expenses, such as entrance fees and lunch, are included in the tour price.

The Sum Up

This guided tour of Hanoi provides a comprehensive introduction to the city’s rich history and vibrant culture. Visitors can explore iconic landmarks, learn about local customs, and savor authentic Vietnamese cuisine. With convenient transportation and flexible cancellation policies, it’s an excellent way to make the most of a day in Vietnam’s captivating capital.