The prestigious World Travel Awards (WTA) named Vietnam’s capital, Hanoi, ‘World’s Leading City Break Destination’ for 2022. Why? Well, it’s perfect for a short, urban getaway in the region.

With its diverse offerings, manageable size, affordability, and heady mix of old and new, it’s easy to see why Hanoi won. The WTA said that Hanoi has “aged well, preserving the Old Quarter, monuments and colonial architecture, while making room for developments alongside”.

Hanoi – the cultural heart of Vietnam − the country’s capital and a home of thousands of relic sites and intangible cultural heritages. That said, Hanoi is a modern, multicultural city that pulses with energy. In short, “It’s a vibe!”

Ho Guom – Hanoi
Whether you’re visiting for business, using the city as the starting point for a longer vacation in Vietnam, or taking a weekend break, there’s a lot you can fit into a short space of time. Here are some ideas…

1. ANCIENT HISTORY TO IMAGINE

See the main attractions. Among these is the Imperial Citadel of Thang Long, one of the country’s most important locations, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Walk the grounds and cast your mind back to the many dynastic and historical periods reflected in the buildings, structures and remains. These include 18 Hoang Dieu Street, Vietnam’s largest archaeological excavation; the D67 Tunnel and House, and Kinh Thien Palace, with its stone-dragon steps. Be sure to visit the Four Guarding Temples surrounding the citadel, which was once the gates to the ancient city.

Imperial Citadel of Thang Long – Hanoi

For something serene, don’t miss The Temple of Literature, where the first national university was opened in 1076. Today it’s a tranquil space made up of five courtyards, with soothing walkways, pavilions and gardens to explore. As this site honours great scholars and philosophers of days gone by, Vietnamese students still come here to pray for luck with their studies.

The Temple of Literature – Hanoi

Then there’s the Hanoi Opera House, a must for architecture fans. Built in the early 20th century during French colonial rule, this impressive building is built in an eclectic neo-classical, Baroque and Gothic style, and features the iconic yellow hue so synonymous with that era of Vietnamese history. Once a cultural centre for the elite, it’s also witnessed many important political events over the years. Theatrical performances are still staged here, so try to see a show.

Hanoi Opera House – Hanoi

2. MUSEUMS TO MARVEL AT
There are many museums in the capital, catering to different interests. One of the most significant of these is the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, an impressive marble structure where the preserved body of Vietnam’s late iconic leader, Ho Chi Minh (‘Uncle Ho’), is kept in a glass sarcophagus. For a sense of ceremony, time your visit to see the changing of the guards.

Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum – Hanoi

Given Vietnam’s history, it’s no surprise that there are many speciality museums that military enthusiasts will enjoy. These include the Vietnam National Museum of History, the Vietnamese Air Force Museum, and the Vietnam Military History Museum.

To learn more about the role of women, head to the Vietnamese Women’s Museum. Alternatively, the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology gives a fascinating insight into the country’s 54 ethnic groups.

Vietnamese Women’s Museum – Hanoi
Source: Facebook: Bao tang Phu nu Viet Nam – Vietnamese Women’s Museum.