Overview
West Lake, also known as Ho Tay, is a picturesque and serene lake in Hanoi, Vietnam. It is the largest natural freshwater lake in the city and offers a peaceful retreat from the bustling urban life.
West Lake is a historic and cultural landmark in Hanoi, offering scenic views, water sports, and a variety of dining and entertainment options.
Location
Address
Hanoi
Neighborhood: Tay Ho
Coordinates
21.017800, 105.848900
Visiting Information
Opening Hours
Admission
Best Time to Visit
Overall Best Period
March-May, October-November
Best Time of Day
Early morning
fewer crowds, cooler temperatures
Duration Recommendations
Seasonal Highlights
spring
mild, pleasant
- • cherry blossoms
- • flower gardens
summer
hot, humid
- • water sports
- • outdoor cafes
autumn
cool, dry
- • fall foliage
- • harvest festivals
winter
cold, occasionally rainy
- • holiday lights
- • warm cafes
Know Before You Go
Essential Information
- Book tickets in advance
- Bring valid ID
- Check weather forecast
- Wear comfortable shoes
What to Bring
essential
recommended
seasonal
not allowed
Health & Safety
Physical Requirements: moderate
- • Dehydration risk in summer
Medical facilities: first aid available on-site
Payment Information
Accepted
cash (VND), credit/debit cards, mobile payment
Currency
Vietnamese Dong (VND)
Typical Costs
Dress Code
casual, comfortable shoes, light clothing, walking shoes, inappropriate clothing
Booking Tips
- • 1-2 weeks
- • official website
- • 48 hours
- • available for online tickets
Amenities
Digital Services
Mobile App
West Lake Hanoi
Size: 30 MB
Features: Interactive map, Audio guide, Tickets and booking, Event calendar
Platforms: iOS, Android
WiFi Zones: Visitor center, Cafes, Restrooms
Charging Stations: Rest areas, Cafes
How to Reach
From Airport
Nearest: Noi Bai International Airport (HAN)
Distance: 25 km
Travel Time: 30-45 minutes
From City Center
Distance: 5 km
Local Insights
Cultural Context
Why Locals Love It: Historic importance, scenic beauty, and a peaceful retreat from the city
Historical Significance: Important events and legends are associated with the lake, such as the famous 'The Tale of the Returned Sword'
Insider Tips
- Free entry early morning for a short period
- Best local food can be found at the back entrance near the local market
Local Recommendations
- • Try local coffee at a lakeside cafe
- • Ask for a local guide to learn about the history
- • Visit the nearby Truc Bach Lake for more scenic views
Language Help
Useful Phrases
Guide Languages: Vietnamese, English, French
Photography Guide
Best Photo Spots
Main entrance
Best Time: Golden hour (6:00am-7:00am or 5:00pm-6:00pm)
Tips: Low angle for reflections, wide angle for landscapes
Result: Great shots of the lake and surrounding architecture
Thuy Quang garden
Best Time: Spring (March-May)
Tips: Capture the flower gardens and lake views
Result: Beautiful floral and landscape shots
Photography Rules
Nearby Attractions
Tran Quoc Pagoda
Distance: 500m
Walking: 7 minutes
Type: Religious Site
Truc Bach Lake
Distance: 1km
Walking: 15 minutes
Type: Lake
Hoan Kiem Lake
Distance: 3km
Walking: 30 minutes
Type: Lake
Hanoi Old Quarter
Distance: 4km
Walking: 45 minutes
Type: Historical Area
Reviews
Based on 5,000 reviews
Recent Visitor Tips
- "Book tickets online in advance"
- "Visit early for the best experience"
- "Try the local coffee at lakeside cafes"
Contact Information
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Quick Info
Available Tours
91
Rating
4.6 / 5.0
Reviews
5,000
Adult Entry
10,000 VND