Moment 01
Ngoc Son Temple and The Huc Bridge on Hoan Kiem Lake
Hanoi · Hanoi · Signature walking tour
Free Tour of Hanoi
A walk through Hanoi's colonial soul — from Hoan Kiem Lake to the Opera House, the Metropole, and St. Joseph's Cathedral.
Home/Free Tour of Hanoi
Duration~3 hours
FormatTip-based walk
PriceFree to join
The Story
Hanoi, founded a thousand years ago.
Discover the landmarks that shaped Hanoi's modern history, from the emperor who founded the city in 1010 to the grand buildings of the French colonial era.
Walk with a local guide between Hoan Kiem Lake, the Opera House, the Sofitel Legend Metropole, and St. Joseph's Cathedral, hearing the stories behind each landmark along the way.
Highlights
Moments along the way.
Moment 02
Ly Thai To Statue, founder of Hanoi (1010)
Moment 03
Government Guest House (Tonkin Palace) — French colonial seat in northern Vietnam
Moment 04
Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi, built in 1901
Moment 05
Hanoi Opera House (1901–1911), French neoclassical architecture
Moment 06
St. Joseph's Cathedral, Hanoi's oldest Catholic church (1886)
Itinerary
How the walk unfolds
- 01
The Statue of the Fallen Heroes
This small yet powerful monument commemorates young Vietnamese who sacrificed their lives during the First Indochina War. Set beside Hoan Kiem Lake, it reflects Hanoi's long tradition of resilience and remembrance.
- 02
Ngoc Son Temple and The Huc Bridge
Admire the traditional architecture of Ngoc Son Temple and walk across the iconic red Huc Bridge. Learn about the legends linked to Hoan Kiem Lake, observe local spiritual customs, and enjoy calm lakeside views.
- 03
Ly Thai To Statue, Founder of Hanoi
This statue honors Emperor Ly Thai To, who established Hanoi as the capital in 1010. As the founder of the Ly Dynasty, he played a defining role in shaping the city's history. The monument is a popular gathering place and a symbol of Hanoi's deep cultural roots and civic pride.
- 04
Government Guest House (Tonkin Palace)
Once known as Phủ Khâm Sứ, this site served as the administrative center of the French colonial government in northern Vietnam during the early twentieth century. Although much of the original complex has changed, the location remains an important reminder of Hanoi's colonial past.
- 05
Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi
Built in 1901, this historic five-star hotel is one of the finest examples of French colonial architecture in Hanoi. Over the years, it has welcomed writers, world leaders, and celebrities, and remains one of the city's most iconic landmarks.
- 06
Hanoi Opera House
Constructed between 1901 and 1911, the Hanoi Opera House is among the city's most recognizable colonial buildings. Inspired by French neoclassical design, it features grand columns, balconies, and domes, and today hosts concerts, ballets, and major cultural events.
- 07
St. Joseph's Cathedral
Built in 1886, St. Joseph's Cathedral is Hanoi's oldest Catholic church and a striking example of neo-Gothic architecture. With its twin bell towers, stained-glass windows, and impressive façade, it remains an active place of worship and one of the most visited landmarks in the Old Quarter.
Meeting point
Statue of the Fallen Heroes, opposite The Huc Red Bridge and Ngoc Son Temple. Look for the clearly visible name tag with the red Free Walking Tours logo.
Open in Google MapsMeeting time
9:00 AM or 2:00 PM
Inclusions
Everything in the walk
Included
- Local English-speaking guide
- Small group walking experience
- Insider tips on food, drink & sights
Not included
- Food & drinks
- Entrance fees (optional sites)
- Guide tip (optional)
Inspiration
Good to know
- Is the Free Tour of Hanoi really free?
- Yes. The walk is free and tip-based — you tip what you feel it was worth at the end. Tips are always optional.
- Where does the Free Tour of Hanoi meet?
- At the Statue of the Fallen Heroes, opposite The Huc Red Bridge and Ngoc Son Temple on Hoan Kiem Lake. Look for the guide's name tag with the red Free Walking Tours logo.
- What does the Free Tour of Hanoi cover?
- A guided walk between Hoan Kiem Lake, Ly Thai To Statue, the Government Guest House (Tonkin Palace), the Sofitel Legend Metropole, the Hanoi Opera House, and St. Joseph's Cathedral.
- What is included in the tour?
- A professional English-speaking local guide, local insights on where to eat, drink and explore in Hanoi, and a small-group walking experience. Food, drinks, entrance fees and tips are not included.
- Is the tour suitable for a small group?
- Yes. The Free Tour of Hanoi runs as a small group for a more personal and engaging walk.
From recent walks
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Real moment·Hanoi Old Quarter Tour
Quiet Hanoi with Lucas from Germany.
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A creative Friday through Phung Hung's mural arches.
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Meet Your Local Guides
Every tour is led by passionate local guides who share Hanoi through stories, culture, food, and everyday life.
Hidden Food Spots Expert
Chris (Dzung)
Passionate about Hanoi's hidden food spots, local stories, and everyday life.
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Everyday Life Guide
Hannah (Hân)
Believes the best way to understand Hanoi is through its people, food, and daily life.
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Cultural Ambassador
Julio (Hoang)
Loves connecting with travellers from around the world and sharing local perspectives on Hanoi.
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So, ready to walk?
Speak to a local guide to start planning your visit.