The Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum is an imposing monument built to honor the father of modern-day Vietnam. Take the time to admire its grandeur before attending the flag-lowering ceremony which happens every day at 9:30 am.
Experience Vietnam's diverse ethnic communities' culture and heritage through the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology. The museum houses world-renowned exhibits that feature costumes, textiles, and handicrafts, among others.
Feast on one of the best local dishes in Vietnam at Quan An Ngon. Try out Bun Cha Hanoi, which is BBQ pork served with rice noodles and herbs. This dish is so special that Barack Obama tried it during his visit in 2016.
Offering a glimpse into the country's education system, the Temple of Literature was Vietnam's first-ever national university. It’s a beautiful complex with gardens, fountains, and pavilions, making the temple the perfect spot for relaxing after lunch.
Hoan Kiem Lake is the perfect location to immerse yourself in local city life, a well-known leisure spot for locals to unwind. Visit the Ngoc Son Temple, located on an island in the middle of the lake. Ngoc Son Temple's sparkling interiors and Vietnamese architecture attract tourists all year round.
Enjoy a cup of traditional Vietnamese coffee stop at Cong Caphe to end the day. This cafe's ambiance with its vintage decors and retro furnishings provides an unspoken connection to the country's historic past.
If you have more than a day, consider taking a day trip to the majestic Halong Bay or witness the beauty of the Mekong Delta through a boat tour. If you have less time, skip the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology and head directly to the Temple of Literature.