Best Shopping In Hanoi

History of Hanoi:

Over the years, the importance of the city in Vietnam’s administration has peaked and trenched dramatically. From 1010 AD to 1802 AD, Hanoi was the most important political centre of the country. But when the Nguyen Dynasty spread its empire all over Vietnam, their ancient capital Hue took over the limelight.

However, once again during the French colonization of Indochina, the city rose to prominence and has stayed so till date. When the Democratic Republic of Vietnam was formed, prime minister Ho Chi Minh decided to make Hanoi the capital of the country.

Over the next few decades, it grew exponentially in terms of economy, resulting Hanoi tourism as the major contributor in the growth of the nation.

Major Attractions in Hanoi:

Hanoi tourism is a dynamic combination of natural beauty, historical significance and the general urban fabric of the city. The most visited monument of the city has to be Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum. The colossal marble structure has the embalmed remains of the greatest political leader of the country inside. In spite of strict security and dress codes, it is still one of the best sights of Hanoi travel. Other very unique attractions of the city are the Temple of Literature, One Pillar Pagoda, Imperial Citadel of Thang Long, Temple of Jade Mountain and the Hoa Lo Prison. Besides these places, there is so much more to see and explore in the capital city of the Land of the Ascending Dragon.

Talking of dragons, the bay where the dragons descend into the sea is yet another attraction of Hanoi trip. The emerald green water surface, the limestone caves, the towers of karst landforms – all of these can be found together on a Halong Bay day trip from Hanoi. For those who want to indulge in educational tours instead of natural or historical sightseeing can hop around the various museums of the city. The National Museum of Vietnamese History, Ho Chi Minh Museum, Museum of Ethnology, Military History Museum, Fine Arts Museum – the options are endless.

But in the opinion of many, the best of Hanoi is Bach Ma temple, founded in 1010 AD by the Ly dynasty and reconstructed in the 18th century by the Nguyen.

Top markets in Hanoi:

Sightseeing is not the only thing to do in Hanoi. There are many other activities to indulge in as well. The Dong Xuan market is a must-visit place to do some quintessential shopping in the city. All the four storeys are full of shops selling cheap garments, watches, accessories, footwear, electronics, funky decors, jewellery and other endless list of things.

The Hanoi street markets are no less. The weekend market held from Friday to Sunday is an essential part of shopping as well as nightlife.

Nightlife in Hanoi:

Talking of nightlife, Hanoi has enough nightclubs and pubs to soak in some drinking and partying too. For some different sort of experiences, one can visit the Hanoi Opera House for an evening’s show or see water puppetry at the Thang Long Theatre by Hanoi Bay Vietnam.

Vietnamese Cuisine in Hanoi:

Like its varied weather, Vietnamese cuisine also leave tourists spellbound as every region has its special cuisine to serve. On an excursion to Vietnam, one must try Barbecued Pork with Vermicelli in Bua Cha Huong Lien and Hung Lau; Crab Spring Rolls in Hung Lau and Bun Cha Dac Kim; Grilled Fish with Dill and Turmeric in Cha Ca restaurant along with other famous foods.