Văn Miếu (Temple of Literature) in Hà Nội. — VNA/VNS Photo Tuấn Đức

HÀ NỘI — The capital city of Hà Nội is one of the most popular travel destinations in Southeast Asia, according to a recent article on the German website Travelbook, which also highlighted six attractions that tourists should explore when visiting the city.

At the top of the list was a visit to Văn Miếu (Temple of Literature), an educational centre for gifted young people since 1076 and considered the country’s first university.

The article said for residents of Hà Nội, the Temple of Literature not only possesses cultural importance but is also one of the quietest and most peaceful places in the bustling metropolis. 

Hồ Chí Minh Mausoleum is also an attractive destination worth visiting. Located on Ba Đình Square, the mausoleum is one of the most important sights in the country. Vietnamese people come there to pay respect to the late President Hồ Chí Minh, considered the founding father of modern Việt Nam. 

According to the article, another spot that tourists shouldn’t miss in Hà Nội is the One Pillar Pagoda, one of the oldest pagodas in the city, and considered a landmark of the capital. The wooden temple was built on a log more than 1,000 years ago. In the 1950s, the original tree trunk was replaced with a concrete pillar. 

Taking a cycle rickshaw through the 36 alleys of the Old Quarter is another must-do in Hà Nội, it said. The tour will give you a good impression of the special attitude towards life in the city. In addition to numerous restaurants and shops, the old town is characterised by handicraft businesses, some of which have existed for generations.

A visit to a water puppet theatre, where the puppets are up to one-metre high, is also a must. Many plays related to legends have been staged through water puppetry.

Travelbook suggested visitors try phở (noodle soup) at least once in Hà Nội if they haven't done it elsewhere in Việt Nam before. The aromatic soup is prepared with lots of fresh herbs, rice noodles and beef. Vegetarian options are also offered in some places.

Việt Nam has completely reopened its border to foreign tourists since mid-March, with quarantine-free travel for arrivals with negative COVID-19 tests, and pre-pandemic visa policies reinstated. — VNS