Things to do in Gia Lam

Activities, attractions and tours

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Top places to visit

1. Hoan Kiem Lake

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.
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A traditional temple with a dragon roof, surrounded by lush greenery and a calm lake.

2. St. Joseph's Cathedral of Hanoi

St. Joseph Cathedral is a 19th-century neo-Gothic church built with the Notre Dame of Paris in mind. The church is a gathering place for the large Roman Catholic community of Hanoi and is also popular with tourists. Constructed when the French first occupied the city, St. Joseph Cathedral is a striking example of colonial architecture in Hanoi.
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A Gothic cathedral with twin towers, a large rose window, and a cross at the top.

3. Hanoi Opera House

Admire the architecture of the Hanoi Opera House from the outside or buy a ticket to one of the shows to really appreciate this grand venue.
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A classical building with white columns and yellow accents, featuring ornate decorations and a balcony with a balustrade.

4. Dong Xuan Market

Dong Xuan Market, Hanoi’s biggest marketplace, is a cavernous building full of tiny aisles. Built by the French at the end of the 19th century, the covered market today has stalls selling anything from household items and food, to clothes and shoes. Tourists visit the market mainly for the experience rather than the shopping.
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A shopping mall with a central fountain, multiple floors, and various shops.

5. Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum

When the former Viet Minh leader died in 1969, his body was embalmed and placed in the grand Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum. This site is a place of great importance to many Vietnamese, and one of Hanoi’s most visited attractions.
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A large building with columns, surrounded by well-maintained gardens and trees.

6. Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre

The Vietnamese art of water puppetry is a true cultural experience that is not to be missed while in Hanoi. Performed entirely in Vietnamese, the music and gesturing puppets tell a story that can be interpreted by all.
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A stage with performers in costumes, a water feature, and a dark background.

What to do in Gia Lam

Where to stay in Gia Lam

Find the best Gia Lam areas for the activities you enjoy most.
A wooden bridge with red railings leading to a traditional gate with intricate designs and Chinese characters.

Old Quarter

Old Quarter is beloved for its panoramic lake views. Take some time to explore sights in the area like Hoan Kiem Lake and Hang Gai Street.

A red bridge with a wooden walkway leading to a traditional gate.

Hoan Kiem

Panoramic lake views interesting history and top sights from Hoan Kiem Lake to Trang Tien Plaza – discover Hoan Kiem, a destination also famous for its shopping.

A historic building with traditional architecture, illuminated by artificial lighting at night.

French Quarter

The ample dining options and fantastic lake views are top of the list for many visitors to French Quarter. A stop by Hoan Kiem Lake or Hanoi Municipal Party Committee might round out your trip.

A cathedral with two tall towers and a large bridge overhead.
Photo by Botak Jon
Open Photo by Botak Jon

Hang Trong

If you're spending some time in Hang Trong, Hoan Kiem Lake and Hang Gai Street are top sights worth seeing.

A serene lakeside scene with a pagoda, palm trees, and a traditional bridge.

Tay Ho

The ample dining options and fantastic lake views are top of the list for many visitors to Tay Ho. A stop by West Lake or Tran Quoc Pagoda might round out your trip.

 

Looking for fun things to do nearby? Check things to do near me to find and book the best things to do, fun activities, and top attractions wherever you happen to be.

 

 

A woman in a yellow dress and a conical hat riding a bicycle along a riverside path with orange flowers and a green fence.

Hanoi

Frequently asked questions

Is Gia Lam worth visiting?
Whether you're planning to experience the cultural hotspots and local charm or sample unique foods and venture into nature, there's no shortage of things to do in Gia Lam.
How do I spend a day in Gia Lam?
Start your adventures with a visit to the must-see sights in the area. Then, tour other parts of Gia Lam for local restaurants and some souvenir shopping.
What is the top tourist attraction in Gia Lam?
Plan your dream escape by checking out our list of low-cost tours, family-friendly options and other fantastic things to do in Gia Lam.
Is three days enough to stay in Gia Lam?
Three days is plenty for a quick escape to Gia Lam — you'll hit the main attractions and get a good feel for the local vibe. But if you really want to experience it all, book for at least a week or more to explore the nearby areas too.
What are some activities to do in Gia Lam with kids?
Whether you're holidaying with hard-to-please teens or tiny adventurers, an itinerary filled with cool activities makes all the difference. Browse our ideas for what to do in Gia Lam with kids.

What to do in Gia Lam for adults?
From tasty dishes and cultural gems to thrilling excursions and one-of-a-kind experiences, there's no shortage of interesting things to do in Gia Lam for adults.
Are there free things to do in Gia Lam?
There's a range of fun things to do in Gia Lam. Unwind in the parks or join in on free events and festivals. Gia Lam offers plenty of budget-friendly activities that let you experience this area without opening your wallet.