10 best things to do at Ba Dinh District, Hanoi (part 1)

This section of Ba Dinh District’s most popular attraction is ideal for travelers looking to learn about Vietnam’s war-filled history and experience the local culture during their holiday in Hanoi. Read on discover out the 10 best things to do in Ba Dinh district.

1. Temple of Literature

The Temple of Literature, a 10-minute walk from Ba Dinh Square, is a charming temple complex in the centre of Hanoi that was originally built to be a centre of learning dedicated to the Chinese sage and scholar Confucius. Over the proceeding 1000 years, many more buildings have been added and beautified o that now this large area is filled with ornate pavilions, shrines, and a rich garden. It has become a rite of passage for graduating doctors to visit The Temple of Literature and the whole place is steeped in Vietnamese history.

Opening hours: 08:00 – 17:00

Adress: 58 Quoc Tu Giam, Van Mieu, Dong Da, Ba Dinh

2. Imperial Citadel of Thang Long

The Imperial Citadel of Thang Long is an intriguing relic of Vietnam’s history and, signifying its historical and cultural importance, is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Standing 40 meters high, the central flag tower is the most recognizable feature of the Imperial Citadel and is often used as a symbol of Hanoi. This was the centre of ancient Hanoi and served as the political centre for eight centuries. Located in Ba Dinh, the Imperial Citadel of Thang Long is close to many other tourist attractions

Opening hours: Tuesday – Sunday, 08:00 – 17:00

Location: 9 Hoang Dieu, Dien Bien, Ba Dinh, Hano

3. One Pillar Pagoda

One Pillar Pagoda is a modest temple is constructed from wood based on a single stone pillar crafted into the shape of a lotus blossom and has been rebuilt several times, most recently in 1955 when the base was destroyed during the French evacuation. The pagoda is often used as a symbol for Hanoi and remains one of the city’s most revered sights in a beautifully tranquil garden setting with benches provided for comfortable contemplation. The shrine inside the pagoda is dedicated to the Vietnamese Buddhist deity Quan Am with her effigy nestled inside the tiny three square meters temple

Opening hours: Daily, 08:00 – 17:00

Location: Chua Mot Cot street, Ba Dinh, Hanoi

4. Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum

Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum in Ba Dinh Square is one of the most visited attractions in Hanoi. It is the final resting place of Ho Chi Minh, the most iconic and popular leader of Vietnam, known to his people as ‘Uncle Ho’. His body is preserved here in a glass case at the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum in central Hanoi (albeit against his wishes). Security is tight and visitors should dress with respect (no shorts, sleeveless shirts, and miniskirts) and everyone has to deposit their bags and cameras before getting in. For visitors, a trip to Uncle Ho’s final resting place can be an extraordinary experience as it is not just an average attraction; it’s a part of a unique history.

Opening hours: Tuesday – Thursday, Saturday & Sunday, 07:30 – 11:00

Location: 8 Hung Vuong, Dien Bien, Ba Dinh, Hanoi

5. President of Palace Hanoi

Presidential Palace Hanoi, established in 1900 by French architect Auguste Henri Vildieu, was intended to be Ho Chi Minh’s official residence. The three-story, mustard yellow building features 30 rooms built in colonial French architectural style, an orchard, carp pond, and a 91-meter long boulevard surrounded by lush gardens. As political gatherings are still held at Presidential Palace Hanoi, visitors are only allowed to explore the gardens and Ho Chi Minh’s stilt home.

Opening hours: Monday - Friday, 07:00 – 16:00

Location: 2 Hung Vuong, Ngoc Ha, Ba Dinh, Hanoi