Hanoi , Vietnam

Escape the Heat of Hanoi - Museum Tour

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About this experience

This experience is the best way to enjoy and learn about Hanoi while avoiding the hot summer!

Whatever your age, you've probably heard about the Vietnam War, one of the most famous wars in modern history. This scenic tour will provide you an insight right into the period of the Vietnamese Battles and their consequences. Our visiting sites will be the Hoa Lo Prison and Vietnam Military History Museum.

If you are a history lover, the Hanoi War Sites Experience should be on your must-see checklist. You'll learn history from stories, not from textbooks! By the end of the experience, you'll have a deep understanding of the roots of history from the perspectives of the young open-minded Vietnamese.

Things to note:
Tickets and English-speaking guides are included in the price.
This tour is for a small group (maximum of 6 people). You'll have a great chance to ask lots of questions.
The Vietnam Military History Museum is closed on Mondays and Fridays, but the Hoa Lo prison is open all week.

Available options

Escape the Heat of Hanoi - Museum Tour

What's included

Ticket Fee

Tour Guide

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Our first and foremost visiting destination is Vietnam Military History Museum. Established in 1956, this is the very first Vietnamese gallery regarding armed
forces, particularly about the Communist Party and People's Army of
Vietnam. There are hundreds of artifacts like tanks, weapons as well as
aircraft wreckage.
The gallery not only enlightens Vietnamese people about their own patriotic
tradition but also supplies tourists with an insight into the hardships of
Vietnam via a lengthy history of the battles against the French, American and
Chinese army.

Stop 2

Later, to continue our Hanoi War Sites Walking tour, we take a look to
discover Hoa Lo prison. Hoa Lo Prison which was formerly called "Hanoi Hilton" by the American
prisoners. Lots of Vietnamese revolutionaries such as political prisoners as

well as patriots against the French colonial Federal government were
captured right here. Throughout the Vietnam War period, American
detainees were kept in this jail.
French colonialists constructed this main prison of both Central and Tonkin in
suburb in 1896. The French name of Hoa Lo prison back then was Maison
Centrale. Its Vietnamese name was Nguc That Hanoi (Hanoi dungeon).
Its original area was more than 12000 square meters nut now it remains only
more than 2000. In the 1980s, the contemporary authority demolished the
whole complex but they kept the gatehouse as a sort of museum dedicated
to resembling the wartime
Exhibits at Hoa Lo Jail concentrate on the French colonial age consisting of
the guillotine chamber. The original device with a hefty blade that slides
down a wood framework is kept in the jail.
This is, of course, a best-chosen destination in Hanoi War Sites Walking Tour.
At this museum, you can obtain a deeper understanding right into the
difficulties of the Vietnamese throughout the battle period and the secrets
behind the victory over French and American.

What's not included

Gratuities

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

1 reviews

5★

4★

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1★

Tripadvisor 5.0

7 reviews

5★

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1★

Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Public transportation options are available nearby

Transportation options are wheelchair accessible

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

I will be waiting for you at the meeting point, Vietnam Military History Museum, at 28A Điện Biên Phủ. And please be on time.

About Hanoi

Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam, is a vibrant city steeped in history and culture. Known for its French colonial architecture, bustling Old Quarter, and rich culinary scene, Hanoi offers a unique blend of traditional and modern experiences.

Top Attractions

Hoan Kiem Lake

Hoan Kiem Lake is a serene oasis in the heart of Hanoi, surrounded by lush greenery and historical landmarks. The lake is a popular spot for locals and tourists to relax and enjoy the scenery.

Nature 1-2 hours Free

Hanoi Old Quarter

The Old Quarter is the historic and cultural heart of Hanoi, featuring narrow streets lined with traditional shops, temples, and colonial-era architecture. It's a vibrant area with a rich history and bustling atmosphere.

Historical Half day to full day Free to explore, shopping and dining vary

Temple of Literature

The Temple of Literature is a historic Confucian temple dedicated to education and literature. It's a serene and culturally significant site, featuring beautiful architecture and a peaceful garden.

Historical 1-2 hours 30,000 VND

Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum

The Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum is a significant historical site where the embalmed body of Vietnam's revolutionary leader, Ho Chi Minh, is displayed. The mausoleum is a place of pilgrimage and a symbol of Vietnam's history.

Historical 1-2 hours Free

Hanoi Opera House

The Hanoi Opera House is a stunning example of French colonial architecture, featuring elegant design and a rich history. It's a popular venue for cultural performances and events.

Architecture 1-2 hours for a performance Varies by event

Must-Try Local Dishes

Pho

A traditional Vietnamese noodle soup with a flavorful broth, rice noodles, and thinly sliced meat, typically beef or chicken.

Lunch/Dinner Can be made vegetarian or vegan

Bun Cha

Grilled pork patties served with rice noodles, fresh herbs, and a dipping sauce.

Lunch/Dinner Contains meat

Banh Mi

A Vietnamese sandwich with a crispy baguette, filled with various ingredients such as grilled meat, pâté, pickled vegetables, and fresh herbs.

Snack/Lunch Can be made vegetarian or vegan

Egg Coffee

A unique Vietnamese coffee made with strong drip coffee, condensed milk, and a frothy egg yolk mixture.

Drink Contains eggs and dairy

Popular Activities

Kayaking in Ha Long Bay Trekking in Sapa Boat ride in Hoan Kiem Lake Coffee at a local café Exploring the Temple of Literature Visiting the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum Swimming and snorkeling in Ha Long Bay Egg coffee tasting

Best Time to Visit

October to December

This period offers pleasant weather with lower humidity and temperatures, making it ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities. The city is less crowded compared to the peak tourist season.

15°C to 25°C 59°F to 77°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Vietnamese
Widely spoken: English, French
English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited in other areas

Currency

Vietnamese Dong (VND)

Time Zone

GMT+7

Electricity

220VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Hanoi is generally safe for travelers, with low crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere. However, petty crime and scams can occur, and travelers should exercise caution and be aware of their surroundings.

Important Precautions:

• Be cautious of your belongings, particularly in crowded areas and on public transportation.
• Use reputable taxi companies and insist on using the meter or agree on a price before starting your journey.
• Be wary of strangers offering help or services, as they may be trying to scam you.

Getting there

By air

Noi Bai International Airport • 28 km from city center

By train

Hanoi Railway Station

By bus

Giap Bat Bus Station, My Dinh Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

The bus system in Hanoi is affordable and covers most of the city. However, it can be crowded and confusing for first-time visitors.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Grab, Gojek

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Old Quarter French Quarter Ba Dinh District Tay Ho District

Day trips

Ha Long Bay

165 km from Hanoi • Full day to overnight

Ha Long Bay is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its stunning limestone karsts and islets, emerald waters, and scenic beauty. It's a popular destination for cruises, kayaking, and exploring caves.

Ninh Binh

90 km from Hanoi • Full day

Ninh Binh is known as 'Halong Bay on land' due to its stunning limestone karsts, rice paddies, and historic sites. It's a popular destination for cycling, boat rides, and exploring ancient temples.

Sapa

320 km from Hanoi • Overnight to multi-day

Sapa is a mountainous region known for its stunning rice terraces, ethnic minority villages, and trekking opportunities. It's a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and cultural experiences.

Festivals

Tet Nguyen Dan (Lunar New Year) • January or February (based on the lunar calendar) Mid-Autumn Festival • September or October (based on the lunar calendar) Hanoi International Film Festival • October or November (annual)

Pro tips

Learn a few basic Vietnamese phrases to enhance your experience and connect with locals.
Explore the city's hidden gems and lesser-known attractions, such as the Hanoi Ceramic Mosaic Mural and the Temple of Literature.
Try local street food and visit markets for an authentic and delicious culinary experience.
Use a navigation app, such as Google Maps or GrabMaps, to help you get around the city and avoid getting lost.
Be cautious of your belongings, particularly in crowded areas and on public transportation, to avoid petty crime and scams.