As the symbol of the city, Hoan Kiem Lake is indeed a focal point of the locals’ life, filled with activities. On weekdays or weekends, there is always something in store for you to enjoy your time. Here are our picks for the top things to do around Hoan Kiem Lake in Hanoi.
Enjoying a Walk Around Hoan Kiem Lake
Walking Street Hanoi operates every weekend, from 7 PM Friday to midnight Sunday in the streets around Hoan Kiem Lake and the Old Quarter. You will find a lot of street performances, especially at night, with many spots to take amazing pictures. If you’re tired from walking, have a seat and watch as locals pass by for a glimpse of Hanoi’s nighttime spirit.
The iconic The Huc Bridge is located right in Hoan Kiem Lake, connecting people with Ngoc Son Temple. Choose a spot where you can view the temple at night. It’s when the lights illuminate the surroundings, making it all so more magical to gaze at.
Taking a Coffee Break With a Lake View
Vietnam is famous for its robust coffee, and Hanoi proudly presents you with lots of phenomenal coffee shops. There are a ton of options to choose from around Hoan Kiem Lake, but if you are looking for a seat with a bird’s eye view of the lake as well as Dong Kinh Nghia Thuc Square, try those cafes high up on the 4th and 5th floor. A worthy mention would be Avalon Cafe Lounge, it’s a beautifully designed shop with an open scheme for you to get a panoramic sight of the Hoan Kiem Lake area.
Visiting The Historical St. Joseph’s Cathedral
This is a historical building built back in 1886. You are not allowed to take pictures inside the church and are required to dress appropriately to enter. However, photography outside St. Joseph’s Cathedral is completely unprohibited. There’s a wide range of small restaurants and coffee shops surrounding the area if you need a break from the weather.
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Shopping around Hoan Kiem Lake
There is so much you can shop for in the Hoan Kiem Lake area, from apparel, and snacks, to books and ornaments. You should mind that most of the well-known international brands’ products on sale in small stalls and stores are not real. We only recommend buying Hanoi souvenirs here, from credible vendors only. Others may try to overcharge or sell you goods of low quality. Take some time to read the shops’ reviews on blogs or travel channels beforehand.
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With all of these top things to do around Hoan Kiem Lake in Hanoi, the city still has a lot more to offer. It’s a perfect travel destination, not only for the rich cultural heritage but also for the vibrant cuisine and warm locals. If you need help navigating through Hanoi in particular and Vietnam in general, check out our top-rated travel guides.