Tet in Hanoi: Top 7 Destinations for a Festive Holiday

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Tet in Hanoi: Top 7 Destinations for a Festive Holiday

What makes Tet in Hanoi special compared to other places? Where should you go to experience it? Join Hanoi Bike Tour and explore the fascinating destinations in the capital during Tet!

With Tet approaching, have you prepared for your Tet trip this year? If you’re a traveler visiting Hanoi during the Tet holiday, you’re probably wondering about the unique Tet destinations in Hanoi.

Where should you go to fully experience Tet in the capital? Let’s discover the best spots with Hanoi Bike Tour and enjoy the festive atmosphere of this special time!

Table of Contents

What’s the Weather Like in Hanoi During Tet?

Tet in Hanoi: Top 7 Destinations for a Festive Holiday

You may not know, but the best time to travel is often during the beginning of the year. In Hanoi, the spring season offers a pleasant climate, with cool breezes and occasional drizzle.

The average temperature ranges from 9 – 14°C. With the gentle chill in the air, you’ll experience a calm and peaceful atmosphere that makes it a perfect time to relax and enjoy the city.

Although there may be occasional showers, don’t worry—they are just short spring rains and don’t last long.

So, the weather won’t be a major obstacle to your trip. If you’ve fallen in love with Hanoi, now is the perfect time to start planning your travel during this special season!

The Old Quarter – Experience Traditional Tet Atmosphere

Tet in Hanoi: Top 7 Destinations for a Festive Holiday

The Old Quarter of Hanoi is a must-see destination during the Tet holiday. During this time, the streets are filled with the sights and sounds of spring, as cherry blossoms, kumquat trees, lanterns, and orchids line the streets. The atmosphere is lively, with locals bustling about shopping for Tet decorations and gifts.

As you walk around the Old Quarter, you can buy fresh flowers, cherry blossoms at Phung Hung Street, Tet decorations on Hang Ma Street, or antique goods and ceramics on Hang Dong Street. Be sure to capture some beautiful photos as you explore this vibrant area.

Watch Fireworks at Hoan Kiem Lake

Fireworks at Hoan Kiem Lake

Hoan Kiem Lake is a fantastic place to visit during Tet. The area is surrounded by iconic landmarks, such as:

Turtle Tower (Thap Rua): A three-story tower built in the late 19th century, situated on a small island in the middle of Hoan Kiem Lake.
Ngoc Son Temple: Dedicated to the revered military leader, General Tran Hung Dao, and the scholar Van Xuong.
The Huc Bridge: A beautiful red-painted bridge that connects the Ngoc Son Temple to the shore of Hoan Kiem Lake.
Pen Tower (Thap But): A five-story tower with a pen-shaped top symbolizing the importance of education and culture.
Hoa Phong Tower: Part of the ancient Bao An Pagoda, dating back to 1847.

Hoan Kiem Lake also features a pedestrian zone where grand music performances and fireworks displays take place during New Year’s Eve. If you’re in Hanoi for Tet, be sure to arrive early to join the locals in watching the fireworks and ringing in the New Year.

Japan-Thin Peach Garden – A Beautiful Spring Destination

Located just outside the city, Japan-Thin Peach Garden is a beautiful and famous spot to visit during Tet. Many locals and tourists visit the garden every spring to capture stunning photos by the peach blossoms, creating lasting memories of the season. The garden is also a great place to buy fresh peach branches to take home and decorate your space for Tet.

Tay Ho Temple – A Peaceful Beginning of the Year

Tay Ho Temple

Situated by the scenic West Lake, Tay Ho Temple is a spiritual and peaceful place, particularly popular during the New Year period. It is dedicated to the worship of the Mother Goddess, and many people come here at the start of the year to pray for health, happiness, and prosperity.

Visiting Tay Ho Temple allows you to enjoy both the beauty of the surroundings and the peaceful atmosphere, providing a calm space to reflect and begin the new year with a sense of serenity.

Quang An Flower Market – A Feast for the Eyes

Quang An Flower Market

Quang An Flower Market is another vibrant spot during the Tet season. The market is filled with bright red peach blossoms and other flowers that are symbols of good fortune and prosperity. You’ll also find many other types of flowers like roses, tulips, lilies, and irises. Be sure to visit and capture the lively colors and energy of the market, and take home some flowers to celebrate the holiday.

Imperial Citadel of Thang Long – A Cultural Treasure

Thang Long Citadel

The Imperial Citadel of Thang Long is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most historically significant places in Hanoi. This ancient citadel houses over 100 valuable artifacts, including cultural heritage items like architecture, sculpture, and traditional craftsmanship, as well as intangible heritage like music, dance, festivals, and folk games.

A visit to the Imperial Citadel allows you to immerse yourself in the history and culture of Hanoi, experiencing a part of the city that dates back centuries.

Old Street of Calligraphers – A Tradition of Tet Wishes

If you’re looking for a traditional experience, be sure to visit the Old Street of Calligraphers, located in the heart of Hanoi’s Old Quarter. Every year, calligraphers gather here during Tet to write blessings and wishes for the New Year. You can choose from a variety of beautiful calligraphy art, with wishes for health, prosperity, and happiness written in elegant Chinese characters. This is a lovely tradition to witness and take part in during your Tet visit to Hanoi.

Hanoi in Tet: A Culinary Experience You Can’t Miss

No Tet celebration would be complete without indulging in some traditional Vietnamese dishes. Hanoi has a rich food culture, and there are several Tet-specific dishes that are not to be missed.

Pho Hanoi: This famous noodle soup features a rich broth, fragrant herbs, and tender beef or chicken. It’s often eaten with crispy fried dough and a boiled egg. Check out some famous pho spots like Pho Ly Quoc Su, Pho Thin, or Pho Bat Dan for authentic taste.
Bun Thang: A delicately crafted noodle dish that includes finely sliced ingredients like chicken, pork, and egg, all served with a flavorful broth. It’s a must-try for anyone visiting Hanoi during Tet.
Bun Cha: Grilled pork and noodles served with a sweet and sour dipping sauce. A favorite local dish, it’s a must for those seeking a true taste of Hanoi.
Frozen Pork (Thit Dong): This dish is particularly popular during Tet. It’s a cold pork jelly eaten with pickled vegetables, creating a perfect blend of flavors on a chilly day.

Tet Travel Tips for Hanoi

Transportation: Hanoi has an extensive transportation system, including taxis, motorbikes, buses, and even a metro system. If you want a truly traditional experience, try taking a cyclo ride around the Old Quarter.
Weather: The weather during Tet can be chilly, so don’t forget to pack warm clothes like jackets, scarves, gloves, and socks to keep cozy during your trip.
Book in Advance: Since Tet is a peak travel season, be sure to book your accommodation, flights, and tours well in advance to avoid any last-minute issues.
Respect Local Customs: If you plan on visiting temples or pagodas, it’s a good idea to dress modestly. You may also want to carry some traditional gifts or offerings when visiting temples during Tet.

Tet in Hanoi offers a unique blend of tradition, culture, and cuisine, making it a perfect destination for anyone looking to experience the beauty and excitement of Vietnamese New Year!