Things to do in Red River Delta
Discover the best attractions and experiences Red River Delta has to offer
Historic Monuments
Explore the region’s ancient fortifications, royal palaces, and historic sites that tell the story of Hanoi and the Red River Delta.
Imperial Citadel of Thang Long
A UNESCO-listed citadel in Hanoi revealing Vietnam’s royal legacy and ancient fortifications.
Temple of Literature (Van Mieu)
Vietnam’s first university and a serene tribute to Confucian scholarship.
Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum
Architectural mausoleum and memorial complex dedicated to the nation’s leader.
Hoa Lo Prison
Historic prison with exhibits on Vietnam's wartime history and resilience.
Museums
From ethnography to national history, these museums showcase the Delta’s diverse cultures and pivotal moments.
Vietnam Museum of Ethnology
Displays on Vietnam’s 50+ ethnic groups with engaging outdoor exhibits.
Vietnam National Museum of History
Chronicles Vietnam’s long past from ancient to modern times.
Ho Chi Minh Museum
Comprehensive museum dedicated to the life and ideals of Ho Chi Minh.
Religious Monuments
Spiritual landmarks across pagodas and cathedrals reveal the region’s religious heritage and daily devotion.
Tran Quoc Pagoda
Ancient Buddhist pagoda perched on West Lake with tranquil lakeside views.
One Pillar Pagoda
Iconic hut-shaped temple set on a lotus-pond site near the city center.
St. Joseph's Cathedral (Hanoi)
Grand Gothic-style cathedral showcasing colonial-era religious architecture.
National & Theme Parks
Protected landscapes and scenic trails invite outdoor exploration across the Delta.
Cuc Phuong National Park
Vietnam’s oldest national park offering primate viewing and lush trails.
Ba Vi National Park
Mountain forest reserve with scenic trails, temples, and a cool climate.
Tam Dao National Park
Green valley and forested hills ideal for hiking and wildlife viewing.
Neighborhoods
Vibrant districts reveal Hanoi’s old-world charm and modern energy.
Hanoi Old Quarter
Historic maze of 36 streets famed for markets, street food, and ancient architecture.
French Quarter (Hanoi)
Elegant colonial-era boulevards, boutique shops, and retro charm.
West Lake (Ho Tay) Area
Lakeside dining and sunset views, plus scenic walks and cafes.
Free Things to Do
Enjoy the Delta without breaking the bank with these simple, free experiences.
Walk around Hoan Kiem Lake
Stroll the lakefront to watch life unfold and snap photos of the red bridge.
Cross Long Bien Bridge
Walk across the historic cantilever bridge for views of the Red River.
Explore Hanoi’s Old Quarter on foot
Immerse in the bustling streets, storefronts, and lively street scenes.
Gastronomy
Sample iconic dishes that define Hanoi and the Red River Delta’s cuisine.
Phở (Vietnamese Beef Noodle Soup)
Fragrant, comforting noodle soup served with fresh herbs.
Bún chả
Grilled pork with nems and noodles, a Hanoi staple.
Chả cá Lã Vọng
Grilled fish with turmeric and dill, served with greens and noodles.
Bánh cuốn
Rice noodle rolls filled with pork and mushroom, dipped in fish sauce.
Nightlife
As night falls, the Delta’s cities come alive with bars, markets, and live performances.
Ta Hien Street (Beer Street)
Lively lanes with street-side beer, snacks, and social buzz.
Dong Xuan Night Market
Evening market offering eats, souvenirs, and local vibe.
West Lake area bars and lounges
Chic lakeside venues with sunset views and live music.
Entertainment
Catch traditional and contemporary performances in iconic venues across Hanoi.
Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre
Classic Vietnamese water puppet show with traditional scenes.
Hanoi Opera House performances
Evening concerts and productions in a grand colonial venue.
Sports
Active options keep you moving, from lakeside rides to forest hikes.
Cycling around West Lake
Pleasant ride with lakeside scenery and local life.
Hiking in Ba Vi National Park
Forest trails and viewpoints within a short drive of Hanoi.
Jogging around Hoan Kiem Lake
Early-morning laps with city energy and sunrise views.
Off the Track
Venture beyond the well-trodden sights with these unconventional experiences.
Trang An boat ride (Tam Coc area)
Scenic boat tour winding through caves and limestone karst.
Tam Coc boat ride
Rowboat excursion through rice paddies and limestone formations.
Mua Cave viewpoint
Climb to a panoramic viewpoint with sweeping valley views.
Bích Động Pagoda
Set of cave pagodas carved into a hillside near Ninh Binh.
Cuc Phuong Night Safari
Evening wildlife walk in Vietnam’s oldest National Park.