Hoan Kiem Lake

Hoan Kiem Lake which includes a lake or waterhole, heritage architecture and a monument
Hoan Kiem Lake which includes a garden
Hoan Kiem Lake
Hoan Kiem Lake featuring a lake or waterhole
Hoan Kiem Lake showing flowers


Wander around the banks of this peaceful lake and discover an historic temple, observe locals going about their daily life or enjoy a picnic lunch under the shade.

Hoàn Kiếm Lake is a popular meeting spot in Hanoi and the location of one of the city’s most picturesque temples. Just a short walk from the old town, the lake provides a leafy escape from the city crowds and heat. Join the locals for a game of chess, stroll around the lake or pack a picnic lunch to enjoy beneath the trees.

Hồ Hoàn Kiếm means “Lake of the Returned Sword” and the name is derived from an ancient myth. Legend states that the Vietnamese emperor Le Loi returned a sword, which he used to drive the Chinese out of Vietnam, to a magic turtle at this very spot.

In the middle of the lake lies Jade Island and the majestic Ngoc Son Temple (Temple of the Jade Mountain). Cross the bright red Huc Bridge (Bridge of the Rising Sun) to reach the temple. Peer down into the water and see if you can spot the large soft-shell turtles that inhabit the lake. Unfortunately, due to pollution and destruction of their habitat, the turtles are almost extinct.

Throw down a rug on the grass and relax with a picnic. Hoàn Kiếm Lake is just a short walk from a number of markets and stores selling fresh produce so you can easily pick up supplies. Watch as locals run laps around the lake or join in if you are feeling energetic.

A kiosk serving fresh Vietnamese coffee can be found on the eastern edge of the lake. For something more substantial, you can find restaurants serving local delicacies in the streets of the French Quarter to the south.

Hoàn Kiếm Lake is located between Hanoi’s old town and French Quarter and can easily be reached on foot from most central locations. Bus routes serve the area and some street parking is available. The lake is open daily and is free of charge.

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Top Hoan Kiem Lake Hotel Deals

Hanoi Royal Premium Hotel

Hanoi Royal Premium Hotel

4 out of 5
59 Phu Doan street, Old Quarter, Hanoi
Hanoi Royal Premium Hotel
Hanoi Royal Palace Hotel 2

Hanoi Royal Palace Hotel 2

4 out of 5
95 Hang Bong Street, Old Quarter, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi
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L’HÔTEL du LAC Hanoi

L’HÔTEL du LAC Hanoi

4 out of 5
35 - 37 Hang Trong, Hoàn Kiem, Hanoi
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GRAND HOTEL du LAC Hanoi

GRAND HOTEL du LAC Hanoi

5 out of 5
18-20-22-24 Nha Chung, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi
GRAND HOTEL du LAC Hanoi
The Oriental Jade Hotel

The Oriental Jade Hotel

5 out of 5
No. 92-94 Hang Trong Str., Hoan Kiem, Hanoi
The Oriental Jade Hotel
Hanoi Lotus Boutique Hotel

Hanoi Lotus Boutique Hotel

4 out of 5
2 Hoi Vu Street, Old Quarter, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi
Hanoi Lotus Boutique Hotel
Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi

Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi

5 out of 5
15 Ngo Quyen Street, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi
Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi
Peridot Grand Luxury Boutique Hotel

Peridot Grand Luxury Boutique Hotel

5 out of 5
33 Duong Thanh, Hanoi
Peridot Grand Luxury Boutique Hotel
Solaria Hotel

Solaria Hotel

4 out of 5
22 Bao Khanh Street, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi
Solaria Hotel
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Hoan Kiem Lake

Hoan Kiem Lake offers a serene escape amidst the bustling city of Hanoi, where you can enjoy leisurely strolls along the tranquil waters. Engage in cultural tours that showcase the rich history of the area, explore local art galleries displaying vibrant Vietnamese artistry, and immerse yourself in entertainment options such as traditional performances and street food markets. This picturesque location is perfect for relaxation and discovering the heart of Vietnamese culture.

Shopping

Experience the vibrant Hanoi Old Town Night Market, just 644m from Hoan Kiem Lake, bustling with local crafts and street food. Nearby, Trang Tien Plaza, 483m away, offers a family-friendly shopping atmosphere. For a more expansive selection, Dong Xuan Market, 1.1km away, showcases traditional Vietnamese goods.

Recreation

At My Dinh National Stadium, immerse yourself in the vibrant sports atmosphere while enjoying various sporting events. For golf enthusiasts, Vantri Golf Club offers a refreshing outdoor experience amidst lush greenery. Just a short walk away, Thang Long Ca Tru Theatre provides a delightful evening of traditional music and entertainment.

Adventure

At Ho Tay Water Park, located 6.4km from Hoan Kiem Lake, you can enjoy thrilling water slides and wave pools perfect for a family day out. VinWonders Water Park, 14.5km away, offers exciting rides and attractions for all ages, while Royal Wave Park, 16.1km distant, promises endless fun and adventure.

Nightlife

The nightlife around Hoan Kiem Lake is vibrant and culturally rich. Enjoy a captivating performance at the Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre, just 322m away, or immerse yourself in traditional arts at the Cheo Theater, 1.1km distant. For a broader entertainment experience, visit Mega Grand World Hanoi, located 16.1km away.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions near Hoan Kiem Lake

Hoan Kiem Lake in Hanoi is a vibrant hub of culture and history, offering a delightful mix of street life, temples, and museums. Visitors can immerse themselves in the local business atmosphere while enjoying the scenic beauty of the lake. The surrounding area is perfect for exploring traditional Vietnamese culture, making it an ideal destination for those seeking a rich urban experience. Its proximity to various attractions ensures a captivating visit for all travellers.

  • Hanoi Opera House: A stunning architectural gem, the Hanoi Opera House is a hub of culture and entertainment. With its French colonial style, it offers a romantic setting for performances ranging from opera to ballet, providing an enchanting experience for visitors.
  • Hoa Lo Prison Museum: This museum, once a prison, offers a poignant glimpse into Vietnam’s history. Exhibits highlight the struggles faced by political prisoners and the resilience of the Vietnamese people, providing a deep cultural understanding of the nation.
  • National Museum of Vietnamese History: Dive into the rich tapestry of Vietnam's past at this museum. Featuring artefacts and exhibits that showcase the country's cultural evolution, it's an enlightening stop for history enthusiasts.

Best time to go to Hoan Kiem Lake

The best time to visit Hoan Kiem Lake is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. June is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with moderate rain. January is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January63.0°F (17.2°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
February66.9°F (19.4°C)No RainMostly CloudySlightly LowAverage
March72.1°F (22.3°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly High
April77.4°F (25.2°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly HighAverage
May82.9°F (28.3°C)Moderate RainMostly CloudySlightly LowAverage
June86.2°F (30.1°C)Moderate RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly Low
July85.3°F (29.6°C)Moderate RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly Low
August83.7°F (28.7°C)Frequent RainMostly CloudySlightly LowAverage
September81.5°F (27.5°C)Moderate RainMostly CloudySlightly HighSlightly Low
October77.0°F (25.0°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly High
November72.5°F (22.5°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
December64.6°F (18.1°C)No RainMostly CloudySlightly HighSlightly High

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Hoan Kiem Lake

To save money on your visit to Hoan Kiem Lake, consider travelling during the off-peak months of June to July and September, when accommodation prices are lower. Booking your hotel about a month in advance can secure better rates, while Saturday nights tend to be cheaper compared to Wednesdays. Utilise platforms like Expedia to compare prices, and don’t forget to check for last-minute deals. Walking is an excellent way to explore the area without the cost of public transport, and there are plenty of free activities to enjoy around the lake.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Hoan Kiem Lake are June to July and September, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to March, October and December, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The best time to book a hotel: Book your hotel around Hoan Kiem Lake about 1 month out to secure some of the cheapest prices. If you're the spontaneous type, Expedia's last minute deals and discounts are indicated via the green label below the price.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Hoan Kiem Lake is Saturday. The most expensive day to stay around Hoan Kiem Lake is Wednesday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia’s search wizard to refine your preferences, such as your budget, preferred location, and the type of hotel you desire. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and eco-friendly hotels that are currently available. To find the best prices and offers, simply sort the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can reduce your expenses by combining your hotel reservation near Hoan Kiem Lake with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

* Savings based on package bookings compared to the price of the same components booked separately. Savings not available on all packages. Book Flight + Lodging, save up to 100% of flight price - Savings based on flight + lodging package prices as compared to the price of the same components available for booking separately before all discounts and rewards applied. Your bundled savings cover up to 100% of your flight. Savings vary based on origin/destination, length of trip, stay dates and travel suppliers. Savings not available on all flight + lodging package bookings.