Hoan Kiem Lake Tours and Activities

Hoan Kiem Lake showing a monument, heritage architecture and a lake or waterhole
Hoan Kiem Lake which includes a park
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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Best Lodging Options Near Hoan Kiem Lake

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
Hanoi Royal Palace Hotel 2
L’HÔTEL du LAC Hanoi

L’HÔTEL du LAC Hanoi

4 out of 5
35 - 37 Hang Trong, Hoàn Kiem, Hanoi
L’HÔTEL du LAC Hanoi
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
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
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
Solaria Hotel

Solaria Hotel

4 out of 5
22 Bao Khanh Street, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi
Solaria Hotel
Peridot Grand Luxury Boutique Hotel

Peridot Grand Luxury Boutique Hotel

5 out of 5
33 Duong Thanh, Hanoi
Peridot Grand Luxury Boutique Hotel
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Things to do near Hoan Kiem Lake

Hoan Kiem Lake in Hanoi offers delightful walking tours around its scenic perimeter, showcasing attractions like the Ngoc Son Temple and the iconic red bridge. Visitors can unwind at wellness centres for relaxation and rejuvenation. As the sun sets, the area transforms with vibrant nightlife options, including local bars and cafés where you can enjoy Vietnamese cuisine and culture. Experience the perfect blend of history, relaxation, and entertainment at this picturesque destination.

Shopping

Visit Dong Xuan Market, a bustling public market only 1.1km from Hoan Kiem Lake, where you can experience local culture. Just 483m away, Trang Tien Plaza offers a family-friendly shopping environment with entertainment options. The Hanoi Old Town Night Market, 644m away, is perfect for unique souvenirs.

Recreation

My Dinh National Stadium offers an energetic atmosphere for sports enthusiasts, located 9.7km from Hoan Kiem Lake. For a cultural experience, visit Thang Long Ca Tru Theatre, just 644m away, showcasing captivating performances. King's Island Golf Resort, a scenic golf course 1.6km away, provides outdoor relaxation and recreation.

Adventure

Experience the thrills at Ho Tay Water Park, located 6.4km from Hoan Kiem Lake, with exciting rides and family-friendly attractions. Venture to VinWonders Water Park, 14.5km away, for more water fun. Lastly, enjoy Royal Wave Park, 16.1km from the lake, offering a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation.

Nightlife

The vibrant nightlife around Hoan Kiem Lake is enchanting. Start with a captivating show at the Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre, only 322m away. For a lively atmosphere, consider the Mega Grand World Hanoi, 16.1km out, or enjoy thrilling rides at the Vong Quay Ngua Go Carousel, also 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 destination filled with cultural gems, including bustling streets, serene temples, and informative museums. This area caters to travellers seeking a mix of culture and city experiences. While exploring Hoan Kiem Lake, don't miss the chance to immerse yourself in its rich history and vibrant atmosphere, making it a must-visit spot for anyone looking to experience the heart of Hanoi.

  • Hanoi Opera House: Experience the grandeur of the Hanoi Opera House, a stunning architectural gem just 805m from Hoan Kiem Lake. This cultural hub offers a romantic atmosphere with world-class performances, immersing you in the city's artistic spirit.
  • St. Joseph's Cathedral of Hanoi: Located a mere 322m away, St. Joseph's Cathedral is a magnificent example of Gothic architecture. Its intricate design and serene ambiance provide a cultural oasis in the bustling city, perfect for reflection and admiration.
  • Ta Hien Street: Just 644m from Hoan Kiem Lake, Ta Hien Street is a vibrant hub known for its lively atmosphere. Dive into local street food and enjoy a drink while mingling with fellow travellers and locals in this energetic urban setting.

Best time to go to Hoan Kiem Lake

The best time to visit Hoan Kiem Lake can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature around Hoan Kiem Lake falls in June, when visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with moderate rain. The coolest average temperature around Hoan Kiem Lake falls in January, 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 during your visit to Hoan Kiem Lake, consider travelling in the cheaper months of June to July and September, while booking your accommodation about a month in advance for the best rates. Look for last-minute deals on Expedia, especially on Saturdays, which are the most affordable days to stay. Use Expedia’s search tools to filter by budget and preferences, and consider bundling your hotel with flights and activities for additional savings. Don't forget to explore the area on foot, as walking is a great way to enjoy the sights without spending anything.

  • 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: Booking a hotel around Hoan Kiem Lake about 1 month out from when you are planning to stay is usually when prices are lowest. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals for hotels, look out for the green banner below the price, as this indicates a cheaper deal.
  • 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: Expedia’s search tool lets you specify your budget, desired location, and additional preferences. You can arrange your results to display prices from lowest to highest, making it easy to find the most affordable hotels first. Additionally, you can refine your search by hotel type; for instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally-friendly accommodation options that you can book.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save some money by combining your hotel reservation near Hoan Kiem Lake with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

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