Hanoi enjoys a rich Imperial history dating back over a millennium, and a surprising diversity of local ethnic groups weave the fabric of the city’s rich tapestry. Start your day on the outskirts of the city with your private driver and English-speaking guide by visiting the Museum of Ethnology (closed on Monday). The museum provides an insightful glimpse into the country’s lengthy history, with more than 15,000 photos and 10,000 objects and artefacts depicting a historical perspective of the lives, activities, customs and habits of the 54 recognized ethnic groups of Vietnam.
Drive back into central Hanoi, stopping at Huu Tiep Lake, where the wreckage of an American B-52 bomber lies as a memorial to the war. Head to West Lake and Truc Bach Lake and visit the monument to John McCain, commemorating the spot where he parachuted to safety after his plane was shot down over the lakes. From here, continue to Shrimp cake in West lake (local restaurant).
After lunch, head to the Temple of Literature, built in 1070 and dedicated to Confucius. Then visit Hoa Lo Prison, constructed in 1896 by the French to house Vietnamese political prisoners. Under the French regime, it was known as the Maison Centrale, and was an important symbol of colonialist exploitation of the era. The Vietnamese took it over in 1954, and the prison was subsequently used to house prisoners of war from 1964 to 1973, where it came to be known sarcastically as the Hanoi Hilton by American POWs. It is bound to be a moving visit.
Continue to Ngoc Son Temple, a pagoda situated on a small island in Hoan Kiem Lake accessible by a classically painted wooden bridge. The view of the city from the pagoda is particularly popular. End your day at a by walking through the iconic Old Quarter. The streets of this district are bustling with scooters, bicycles, cyclos and cars zipping around pedestrians.
The best way to enjoy the charming colonial architecture is to wander with your guide at a leisurely pace, and be sure to stop for a cup of Vietnamese egg coffee or a local snack from one of the many tantalizing street vendors. Your guide and private driver will accompany you back to your hotel, or if you prefer to enjoy your own dinner at your pace in the Old Quarter and soak up the atmosphere, you can make your own way back to your hotel at your leisure.