A Brief History
Visitors landing in Vietnam flights to Hanoi will immediately notice the area’s rich history. It has been inhabited for about 12,000 years. Hanoi rose to prominence as a political hub in 1010 when Emperor Ly Thai To made it his capital city. During this period, Hanoi was known as Thang Long. In 1802, the capital moved to the coastal city of Hue. Later in the 1800s, the French arrived to Vietnam, and Hanoi became the core of French Indochina. The French colonial period had a strong impact on the city’s culture, which was now known as Hanoi. Some traditional buildings were destroyed, and French architecture rose instead. Hanoi remained part of French Indochina until Prime Minister Ho Chi Minh declared Vietnam’s independence in 1945. Soon after, the country divided into North and South Vietnam, with Hanoi being capital of the democratic north. The country faced conflict for several decades until the North and South were reunified into one nation in 1973. Today, visitors with cheap flights to Hanoi can experience the immense history and culture of the region.
Etiquette Tips
Dress conservatively when visiting temples
Both men and women should cover their arms and legs while visiting a Vietnamese temple. Take a lightweight scarf or sarong on your flights to Hanoi to use while visiting temples.
Don’t be afraid to slurp while eating
If you eat loudly after arriving on return flights to Hanoi, the Vietnamese take this as a sign that you’re enjoying the meal.
Be cautious about mentioning the Vietnam War
The war had a strong impact on many Vietnamese people’s lives and can still be a touchy subject to discuss.
Use both hands when passing something to a local
When handing something to a Vietnamese person, such as money, present it to them with both hands. Passing something with one hand can be seen as pushy or rude.
Top Experiences for Visitors with Flights to Hanoi
Ha Long Bay
One of the most famous attractions to visit when you book tickets to Hanoi is actually located outside of the city. Ha Long Bay makes for a great day trip after your arrival into Noi Bai International Airport (HAN). This UNESCO World Heritage Site consists of a vast bay dotted with small islands and limestone pillars. For the ultimate Ha Long Bay experience when you have flights to Hanoi, book onto a boat tour to experience the beauty of the bay up close.
Hanoi Old Quarter
While much of Hanoi features French-inspired architecture, the Old Quarter is where you get a true feel for the city’s traditional roots. The Old Quarter has the feel of a small village with narrow streets, markets, temples, and plenty of authentic cuisine. After arriving on your cheap flights to Hanoi, you’re likely to spend lots of time in the Old Quarter as it’s where you’ll find many of the city’s top attractions.
Dong Xuan Market
For an authentic Vietnamese shopping experience after your flights to Hanoi, head to this market in the Old Quarter. It has been operating since 1889 and is Hanoi’s largest indoor market. Visitors with an airfare to Hanoi can shop the market for everything, ranging from souvenirs to clothing to furniture. You’ll also find plenty of food throughout the market. In addition to stalls selling fresh produce and fish, visitors with return flights to Hanoi can try some local specialties, including pho, bun thang, and banh goi.
Temple of Literature
The Temple of Literature is one of the most frequented attractions for people who book cheap flights to Hanoi. The temple is dedicated to the Chinese scholar Confucius and was originally built as a university in 1070. The temple is beautifully designed with traditional Vietnamese elements. Throughout the Temple of Literature, visitors with tickets to Hanoi can enjoy five courtyards, sprawling gardens, a large pond, and a series of statues.
Hoan Kiem Lake
Hoan Kiem Lake is steeped in legend, making it a favourite among both locals and visitors with return flights to Hanoi. According to legend, the Dragon King gave a sword to Emperor Le Loi as a way to fight off Chinese oppression during the 15th century. The sword was thought to come from Hoan Kiem Lake, and after it was successful in battle against the Chinese, the emperor revisited the lake. A golden turtle emerged to collect the sword and return it to the Dragon King. While visiting after your flights to Hanoi, you may spot turtles peeking out of the lake, and it’s a great place to go for a walk.
