German media: Hanoi is a fascinating city for every traveler

Update: 03/11/2023
In the article titled “The best sights in Vietnam’s capital Ha Noi” by Daniel Schramm, Reisereporter.de introduces readers to Ha Noi’s places of interest and its extraordinary gastronomy.

Foreign travelers in Ha Noi's Old Quarter. Photo: Van Phuc

“Some highlights await you in Vietnam's capital of Ha Noi. From historic temples and stunning architecture to delicious culinary experiences, we'll tell you what you can't miss,” Daniel wrote.

Ha Noi, the charming capital of Vietnam, is home to a wealth of fascinating sights. Historic temples, architectural wonders, culinary delights, and more await you here. The capital of Vietnam is a unique blend of tradition and modernity and is incredibly diverse.

The travel site suggests visitors take a stroll through the alleys of the old town, explore cultural treasures such as the Temple of Literature and the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, and marvel at architectural masterpieces such as the Long Bien Bridge.

"Whether you're interested in history, art, nature, or traveling, Hanoi has something for everyone. This city combines a rich history with a promising future. Immerse yourself in the fascinating world of Vietnam's capital," stated the site.

Vibrant life in Ha Noi's Old Quarter

The special destination that made a strong impression on the author of this travel article is Ha Noi's Old Quarter.

It is a true gem of the city that attracts travelers from all over the world. Here, in the narrow and lively streets, travelers can feel the vibrant energy and unique atmosphere of Hanoi, according to the writer at Reisereporter.de.

Pho Bo or traditional Vietnamese beef noodle soup. Photo: Trinh Le Phong

The Old Quarter is a maze of historic streets that have existed for centuries, lined with colorful, narrow houses. The architecture gives a sense of Ha Noi's turbulent history, while the roads reflect the city's modern bustle.

One of the hallmarks of the Old Town is its bustling street markets, where you'll find a wealth of goods, from fresh fruits and vegetables to handmade souvenirs. You can experience authentic Ha Noi by strolling among the market stalls and interacting with the friendly locals.

Ha Noi's cuisine is also an exciting experience for visitors. According to the German travel website, Ha Noi's Old Town is famous for its street food scene.

Travelers can embark on culinary adventures by letting themselves be guided by the enticing smells of the food stalls. Some of Ha Noi's not-to-be-missed specialties include pho or traditional Vietnamese noodle soup with beef, Banh Mi, or Vietnamese-style sandwiches.

Cultural treasures: Temples and Mausoleums

Travelers to Ha Noi are surrounded by a variety of cultural treasures and historical sites that reflect Vietnam's rich heritage. The travel site suggests readers visit the Temple of Literature, a testament to Vietnam's long tradition of valuing education and scholarship. The peaceful atmosphere, characterized by lush gardens and historic stone tablets, makes it a place of inspiration and reflection.

The St. Joseph’s Cathedral in Ha Noi. Photo: Yeu Ha Noi

The Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum is an impressive monument to the founder of the modern Vietnamese nation, President Ho Chi Minh, which attracts tens of thousands of visitors every year.

Meanwhile, temples and pagodas in Ha Noi offer international tourists deep insights into Vietnamese spirituality, the most sacred of which are the One Pillar Pagoda and Ngoc Son Temple in the middle of Hoan Kiem Lake. Both places are known for their spiritual significance and picturesque surroundings, offering peace and tranquility to visitors.

Architectural wonders: Long Bien Bridge and St. Joseph's Cathedral

These magnificent buildings not only add to Ha Noi's visual splendor but are also historically significant. They are not only striking structures but also modern reminders of the city's past and present. After a stroll through these places, you will surely be captivated by Ha Noi's architectural heritage.

The iconic Long Bien Bridge over the Red River in Ha Noi. Photo: Dung Tran/Yeu Ha Noi

Long Bien, originally called Paul Doumer Bridge, is undoubtedly one of Ha Noi's engineering masterpieces. Built in the 19th century, the bridge is a sublime example of colonial architecture.

Meanwhile, St. Joseph's Cathedral is a magnificent example of neo-Gothic architecture and a historical monument in the city. Not only will architecture lovers be delighted by a visit to this magnificent sacred structure, but they will also get a glimpse into Hanoi's religious past.

Discover nature in the city

Ha Noi has peaceful and tranquil places where you can unwind and take in the city's natural beauty, even in the midst of all the hustle and bustle.

Known as the "Lake of the Returned Sword", Hoan Kiem Lake is a picturesque oasis in the center of Ha Noi. Beautiful grasslands surround this charming lake, making it an ideal place for leisurely strolls.

The green shores of the lake offer a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of the city. Travelers can immerse themselves in the tranquility and enjoy the magnificent scenery of the lake.

The Hoan Kiem Lake is the heart of Ha Noi Capital. Photo: Phuong Nguyen

According to Reisereporter.de, Hoan Kiem Lake not only provides a relaxing ambiance but is also a connection to Ha Noi's rich history and mythology, and a walk around the lake will make one’s visit to Ha Noi unforgettable.

A gastronomic paradise

Ha Noi is a true foodie's paradise, and there is no better way to experience the culture and flavors of Vietnam than to embark on a culinary adventure through the streets and restaurants of this city.

Apart from Pho and Banh Mi, some other dishes suggested by the travel site include Bun Cha or Grilled Pork with fresh noodles and herbs, Goi Cuon or Spring Roll, Bun Bo Nam Bo or a mixture of fresh noodle and stir-fried beef, and others.

The dish of Cha Ca La Vong in Ha Noi. Photo courtesy of the restaurant.

Destination for art and culture lovers

As an ideal tourist attraction for art and culture lovers, Ha Noi offers a wide choice of art galleries and museums.

The Museum of Vietnamese History presents the history of Vietnam from ancient times to the present. It is the place where travelers can discover artifacts from different eras, including the Dong Son culture (from 1000 BC to the first century AD) and the Nguyen dynasty (1802-1945).

At the Vietnam National Fine Art Museum, travelers can admire all genres of Vietnamese artworks, from traditional paintings to contemporary art.

The Vietnam Museum of Ethnology offers visitors a fascinating insight into the different ethnic groups in Vietnam. Meanwhile, the Vietnam War Museums are the place where people can learn more about Vietnamese military art through impressive photographs and artifacts.

Jenna Duong

Source: Hanoi Times - hanoitimes.vn - November 2nd, 2023