Hanoi, Vietnam's charming capital, is a city where centuries-old architecture meets the vibrant energy of modern life. Vietnam is known by explorers everywhere for its stunning landscapes and its street food, it is also synonymous with the Iconic train street where every influencer under the sun drops a photo of themselves coming a little bit to close to meeting the maker. What is slightly lesser know in Vietnam is is architectural prowess and its history, yet there is interesting architecture here to be had and some locations which should be added to the itinerary if you have some time in the Capital.
Its bustling streets hold influences from ancient Vietnamese dynasties, French colonialism, and contemporary urban design. Hanoi may be less known for its architecture, however this does not mean that it has some interesting gems in its Vast Urban centre.
So to that note, welcome to Backpacker's Blueprint the travel website and blog run by architects to help people discover the best architecture here on planet earth. As you can hopefully guess by that into and the title of this here blog post, we are going to be looking at 15 must-visit architecture sites in Hanoi, Vietnam, complete with details about their history, significance, and entry information. First, lets look at where these Hanoi Architecture sites are on the map and then lets get into a bit about each of them.
15 must-visit architecture sites in Hanoi, Vietnam,
on the Map
15 must-visit architecture sites in Hanoi
No.1-No.5
No.1. Temple of Literature (Văn Miếu Quốc Tử Giám)
Year Built: 1070
Style: Traditional Vietnamese
Entry Fee: 30,000 VND (~$1.25 USD)
Why it’s special: As Vietnam’s first national university, the Temple of Literature is a testament to the country’s deep respect for education and Confucian principles. Its layout features five courtyards adorned with ancient stone stelae, ponds, and meticulously maintained gardens. This serene site provides a glimpse into Vietnam’s scholarly heritage while showcasing the elegance of traditional Vietnamese architecture.
What to explore: Stroll through the peaceful courtyards, admire the intricate carvings on the stelae of doctoral laureates, and visit the sanctuary dedicated to Confucius.
No.2. Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum
Year Built: 1973–1975
Style: Soviet Brutalism with Vietnamese touches
Entry Fee: Free
Why it’s special: This imposing granite structure is the final resting place of Ho Chi Minh, Vietnam’s revolutionary leader. Inspired by Lenin’s Mausoleum in Moscow, it symbolises national unity and reverence. Its solemn atmosphere, coupled with the surrounding Ba Dinh Square, makes it one of Hanoi's most significant landmarks.
What to explore: Pay respects to Ho Chi Minh’s embalmed body, and explore the nearby Presidential Palace and One Pillar Pagoda.
No.3. Hanoi Opera House
Year Built: 1911
Architect: Charles Garnier (influence), designed by Broyer and Harley
Style: French Neoclassical
Entry Fee: Ticket prices vary for performances (~300,000 VND to 2,000,000 VND)
Website: www.hanoioperahouse.org.vn
Why it’s special: A smaller counterpart to Paris’ Palais Garnier, the Hanoi Opera House is a masterpiece of French colonial architecture. Its grand columns, ornate detailing, and opulent interiors transport visitors to early 20th-century Vietnam under French rule. Today, it’s a hub for cultural performances.
What to explore: Attend a live performance or take a guided tour to admire its lavish chandeliers and vaulted ceilings.
No.4. St. Joseph’s Cathedral (Nhà Thờ Lớn Hà Nội)
Year Built: 1886
Style: Neo-Gothic
Entry Fee: Free
Why it’s special: Modelled after Notre-Dame de Paris, St. Joseph’s Cathedral stands as a striking example of French Gothic design in Vietnam. Its tall spires, stained-glass windows, and arched doorways contrast beautifully with the surrounding bustling streets of the Old Quarter.
What to explore: Visit during mass for a unique cultural experience or take in the stunning exterior during sunset.
No.5. Long Bien Bridge (Cầu Long Biên)
Year Built: 1903
Architect: Gustave Eiffel (design influence)
Style: Industrial Colonial
Entry Fee: Free
Why it’s special: Spanning the Red River, this steel bridge is a testament to French engineering prowess. It served as a key transport route during colonial times and played a crucial role in Vietnam’s wartime history. Despite heavy bombing during the Vietnam War, sections of the original bridge remain intact, symbolising resilience.
What to explore: Walk or cycle across the bridge for panoramic views of the Red River and surrounding landscapes.
15 must-visit architecture sites in Hanoi
No.6-No.10
No.6. Thang Long Imperial Citadel
Year Built: 11th Century (original construction)
Style: Vietnamese Imperial
Entry Fee: 30,000 VND (~$1.25 USD)
Why it’s special: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Thang Long Imperial Citadel was the political centre of Vietnam for over 1,000 years. This sprawling complex features ancient ruins, grand gates, and remnants of Vietnamese dynasties.
What to explore: Visit the Flag Tower and explore archaeological findings, including ancient ceramics and foundations.
No.7. One Pillar Pagoda (Chùa Một Cột)
Year Built: 1049
Style: Traditional Vietnamese Buddhist Architecture
Entry Fee: Free
Why it’s special: This pagoda is an architectural marvel, standing on a single stone pillar resembling a blooming lotus. Built by Emperor Ly Thai Tong, it symbolises purity and enlightenment in Buddhist philosophy.
What to explore: Admire the pagoda’s unique design and peaceful surroundings in the Ho Chi Minh Complex.
No.8. Vietnam Museum of Ethnology
Year Built: 1997
Style: Modern with traditional influences
Entry Fee: 40,000 VND (~$1.70 USD)
Website: Vietnam Museum of Ethnology
Why it’s special: This museum showcases Vietnam’s 54 ethnic groups through traditional architecture, including reconstructed stilt houses and communal halls. It’s both an educational and architectural treat.
What to explore: Explore the outdoor exhibit area, which features full-scale traditional homes.
No.9. Hoa Lo Prison (Maison Centrale)
Year Built: 1896
Style: French Colonial
Entry Fee: 30,000 VND (~$1.25 USD)
Why it’s special: Known as the "Hanoi Hilton" during the Vietnam War, this French-built prison offers a sobering glimpse into Vietnam’s turbulent history. The preserved sections highlight its use during colonial and wartime eras.
What to explore: Tour the prison cells and exhibits detailing its history.
No.10. West Lake (Tay Ho) and Tran Quoc Pagoda
Year Built: 6th Century
Style: Traditional Vietnamese Buddhist
Entry Fee: Free
Why it’s special: Tran Quoc Pagoda, Hanoi’s oldest Buddhist temple, is situated on a serene island in West Lake. Its red brick tower and tranquil surroundings make it a must-see site.
What to explore: Walk along the causeway to the pagoda and enjoy the peaceful lake views.
15 must-visit architecture sites in Hanoi
No.11-No.15
No.11. Hanoi Train Street
Year Built: Early 20th Century
Style: Colonial Urbanism
Entry Fee: Free
Why it’s special: This narrow alley, with a train track running through it, showcases Hanoi’s unique urban density. It has become an Instagram hotspot, where visitors marvel at the trains passing just inches from houses and cafés.
What to explore: Sip coffee at a local café and watch the train pass through this lively street.
No.12. Dong Xuan Market
Year Built: 1889
Style: French Colonial with Art Deco elements
Entry Fee: Free
Why it’s special: Hanoi’s largest market is an architectural and cultural landmark. Its façade reflects early 20th-century design, while its bustling interiors are a vibrant representation of Hanoi’s commerce.
What to explore: Shop for local goods, street food, and souvenirs in this bustling market.
No.13. Hang Dau Water Tower
Year Built: 1894
Style: French Colonial Industrial
Entry Fee: Free
Why it’s special: An iconic cylindrical structure, the Hang Dau Water Tower played a crucial role in Hanoi’s early water supply system. It’s an overlooked yet charming relic of the colonial era.
What to explore: Admire the tower’s design and its location near Hanoi’s Old Quarter.
No.14. Vietnam National Museum of Fine Arts
Year Built: 1937
Style: French Colonial
Entry Fee: 40,000 VND (~$1.70 USD)
Website: Vietnam Museum of Fine Arts
Why it’s special: Housed in a beautifully restored French colonial building, this museum features works spanning Vietnam’s
rich artistic history, from ancient artefacts to modern art.
What to explore: Discover lacquer paintings, sculptures, and ceramics in a stunning architectural setting.
No.15. National Assembly House
Year Built: 2014
Style: Contemporary Minimalist
Entry Fee: Restricted (exterior view only)
Why it’s special:This modern building serves as Vietnam’s government headquarters. Its sleek design symbolises the nation’s aspirations for progress and modernity.
What to explore: Admire the building’s contemporary architecture and its location near Ba Dinh Square.
Final thoughts.
A fantastic way to see cities like Hanoi are to take a Guru walking tour, I do one in almost every city I visit and its a fantastic way to discover the history and architecture of the area I a safe way. You may even find some like minded travel friends during your tour. Win Win I believe that is called. Make sure to check out your options on the link above.
That is it ya'll the top architecture sites in Hanoi, Vietnam. Make sure to like and subscribe and share with anyone heading to Hanoi, Vietnam so they can add some of these stops to their itinerary. Please let us know if you have been to Hanoi and which architecture sites you enjoyed or please let us know what you would add to the list so other backpackers and explorers can discover them.
Jack
For the curious explorer
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