Serenity by the Water: Discovering West Lake
Explore the serene beauty and cultural richness of West Lake, a captivating destination in the heart of Hanoi, Vietnam.
West Lake in Hanoi is a picturesque destination that offers tranquility and beauty, ideal for tourists seeking relaxation and cultural experiences. Surrounded by lush gardens and vibrant local life, it's a perfect escape from the city's hustle and bustle.
A brief summary to West Lake
- Hanoi, Tây Hồ, Tây Hồ, Hanoi, VN
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning for a peaceful atmosphere and stunning sunrise views.
- Try the local delicacies at the lakeside restaurants, especially the fresh fish dishes.
- Rent a bicycle to explore the scenic paths around the lake at your own pace.
- Don't miss the traditional Tran Quoc Pagoda for a glimpse of local history and architecture.
- Explore the nearby parks for a relaxing picnic or a quiet spot to unwind.
Getting There
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Bus
To get to West Lake from the Old Quarter, walk to the nearest bus stop on Phan Chu Trinh Street. Take bus number 14, which goes directly to Tây Hồ. Stay on the bus for about 20 minutes. You will see the lake on your left as you approach. Get off at the Tây Hồ stop and walk towards the lakefront.
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Walking
If you are near Hoan Kiem Lake, start at the northern edge of the lake and head northwest on Tràng Thi street. Continue straight until you reach the intersection with Đê La Thành Street. Turn left and walk for about 20 minutes until you reach the West Lake area. You will see the lake on your right.
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Cyclo (Pedicab)
From your hotel in the Old Quarter, you can hire a cyclo to take you to West Lake. Negotiate the price before starting the ride. The journey will take about 25-30 minutes, depending on traffic. The cyclo will drop you off at the lakeside, where you can enjoy the views and nearby cafes.
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Taxi (Grab app)
Download the Grab app on your phone and use it to call a taxi. Input 'Tây Hồ' or 'West Lake' as your destination. The ride will take approximately 15-20 minutes from the Old Quarter. Make sure to specify a drop-off point near the lake, such as the West Lake Water Park, for easy access to the waterfront.
Discover more about West Lake
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Chùa Kim Liên
0.9 km
Discover the tranquility and spiritual heritage of Chùa Kim Liên, a captivating Buddhist temple in the heart of Hanoi, Vietnam.
Tran Quoc Pagoda
1.3 km
Discover the tranquility and rich history of Tran Quoc Pagoda, the oldest Buddhist temple in Hanoi, set against the serene backdrop of West Lake.
Nhà Ga Thủy Phi Cơ Hồ Tây
1.3 km
Discover the architectural beauty and cultural essence of Nhà Ga Thủy Phi Cơ in Hanoi's Tây Hồ district, a must-visit tourist attraction.
John McCain Memorial
1.3 km
Explore the John McCain Memorial in Hanoi, a significant historical site reflecting on U.S.-Vietnam relations and the enduring spirit of reconciliation.
Sunset View - Tran Quoc Pagoda - SAHA
1.3 km
Discover the serene beauty of Tran Quoc Pagoda, a historic gem in Hanoi, offering breathtaking sunset views and a peaceful atmosphere.
Presidential Palace
1.8 km
Explore the grandeur of the Presidential Palace in Hanoi, a blend of history, architecture, and serene gardens that reflect Vietnam's cultural heritage.
Ba Đình
1.9 km
Explore Ba Đình, a historic district in Hanoi, Vietnam, filled with significant landmarks, rich culture, and authentic local cuisine.
Quảng trường Ba Đình
2.1 km
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Di tích Cửa Bắc-Hà Nội
2.1 km
Discover the historical significance and architectural beauty of Di tích Cửa Bạc, a must-visit landmark in the heart of Hanoi, Vietnam.
Vietnam National Assembly Building
2.2 km
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Bến Du Thuyền
2.2 km
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Hậu Lâu
2.2 km
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Bac Son Monument
2.3 km
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Museum of Artillery
2.5 km
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Tay Ho Sports Complex
2.6 km
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Unmissable attractions to see
Phủ Tây Hồ
0.7 km
Explore the serene beauty of Phú Tây Hồ, a sacred shrine in Hanoi offering tranquility, stunning lake views, and rich cultural heritage.
Panoramic Point Lang Yen Phu
0.8 km
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Đ. Thanh Niên
1.3 km
Explore the scenic beauty and cultural richness of Thanh Niên Street in Hanoi, Vietnam, a perfect blend of history and tranquility by Ho Tay Lake.
The Fitness Village
1.4 km
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Hanoi Botanical garden
1.4 km
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Quan Thanh Temple
1.6 km
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Rose Kitchen Cooking Class
1.7 km
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Ho Chi Minh’s Stilt House
1.8 km
Immerse yourself in Vietnam's history at Ho Chi Minh's Stilt House, a significant landmark in Hanoi showcasing the life of the revolutionary leader.
Hồ Hữu Tiệp
2.0 km
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Ho Chi Minh's Mausoleum
2.0 km
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B52 Victory Museum
2.0 km
Discover Vietnam's rich military history at the B52 Victory Museum, showcasing resilience, heritage, and the impact of the Vietnam War.
Ho Chi Minh Museum
2.1 km
Explore the life and legacy of Ho Chi Minh at this insightful museum in Hanoi, showcasing Vietnam's rich history and revolutionary spirit.
One Pillar Pagoda
2.1 km
Explore the serene beauty and cultural significance of the One Pillar Pagoda, a key landmark of Hanoi's Buddhist heritage.
Tây Hồ
2.3 km
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Graffiti Wall
2.4 km
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Essential places to dine
Pépé La Poule
0.6 km
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An Gia Vị
0.8 km
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Hanoi Taco Bar
0.9 km
Discover the vibrant flavors of Mexico fused with Vietnamese ingredients at Hanoi Taco Bar – a culinary hotspot in Hanoi's Tây Hồ district.
6 Degrees
1.1 km
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Chops Tay Ho
1.1 km
Experience gourmet hamburgers and New American cuisine at Chops Tay Ho in Hanoi, where every bite is crafted with care amidst stunning lakeside views.
La SalSa Restaurant
1.3 km
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Maii Bistro
1.4 km
Experience authentic Vietnamese flavors at Maii Bistro in Hanoi—where culinary tradition meets modern dining.
El Gaucho | Tay Ho
1.5 km
Indulge in exquisite steaks and fine dining at El Gaucho in Tay Ho - where culinary excellence meets stunning lakeside views.
Fabrik
1.6 km
Discover Fabrik in Hanoi: A delightful fusion of European culinary traditions featuring exquisite French and Mediterranean dishes.
Cousins Restaurant
1.6 km
Experience the best of French cuisine at Cousins Restaurant in Hanoi—where culinary artistry meets warm Vietnamese hospitality.
Chào Bạn - Vietnamese restaurant
1.7 km
Discover the authentic flavors of Vietnam at Chào Bạn - your go-to restaurant in Hanoi for traditional dishes and warm hospitality.
Dragon Cello Restaurant
2.2 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Dragon Cello Restaurant in Hanoi's beautiful Tây Hồ district; perfect for pizza lovers and wine enthusiasts alike.
Khuê Restaurant
2.2 km
Discover the exquisite blend of European and Vietnamese flavors at Khuê Restaurant, Hanoi's premier fine dining destination.
Trattoria Pomodoro Hanoi
2.3 km
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Vi Ha Noi Restaurant & Cafe
2.5 km
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Better World Hanoi
0.9 km
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Emporium Hanoi
1.0 km
Discover the vibrant fashion scene of Emporium Hanoi, where modern designs meet traditional Vietnamese charm in a stylish shopping atmosphere.
Shop Thời Trang Made In Vietnam
1.2 km
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MOC Thrift Shop
1.3 km
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Copenhagen Delights
1.3 km
Discover a vibrant costume store in Hanoi, offering a unique selection of clothing and accessories for all occasions.
Little Heroes
1.4 km
Discover the magic of play at Little Heroes, Hanoi's premier toy store offering an enchanting selection of toys, clothing, and gifts for children.
Autumn.Deli
1.9 km
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Humanity Hanoi
2.0 km
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Dong Ho Painting Sale Shop
2.0 km
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Visconti Vietnam
2.3 km
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54 Traditions Gallery
2.3 km
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Cửa Hàng Thời Trang 31 Boutique
2.4 km
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Gifts Shop
2.5 km
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Creative Gift Shop
2.5 km
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Em Hanoi
2.6 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Sunset Bar
0.7 km
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Cork & Bottle Wine Bar
0.9 km
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The Snug
1.0 km
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Rastaman Pub
1.1 km
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The Republic
1.1 km
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Nameless Bar
1.1 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Hanoi at Nameless Bar, where exquisite cocktails meet a cozy atmosphere in the heart of Tây Hồ.
Whiskey Mystics and Men - W2M
1.1 km
Discover a whiskey lover's paradise at Whiskey Mystics and Men, where exceptional spirits meet a cozy ambiance in the heart of Hanoi.
Tracys Pub
1.1 km
Experience a vibrant blend of American and Canadian cuisine at Tracy's Pub in Hanoi's stunning Tây Hồ district, perfect for food lovers and sports fans.
Puzzle
1.4 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Hanoi at Puzzle Bar, where eclectic drinks and lively atmosphere come together for unforgettable evenings.
Red River Tea Room
1.5 km
Experience the charm of Hanoi at Red River Tea Room, a serene bar offering exquisite teas and stunning riverside views.
Apini Bar
1.6 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife of Hanoi at Apini Bar, a lively spot for cocktails and local brews in the heart of Tây Hồ.
Standing Bar
1.6 km
Experience the vibrant ambiance and stunning views at Standing Bar, Hanoi's premier destination for craft beers and delightful bites.
Track 42 Bar
1.8 km
Discover the lively ambiance and exceptional cocktails at Track 42 Bar, a must-visit nightlife destination in the heart of Hanoi.
ZODIAC - Mixology and Wine
2.0 km
Discover the art of mixology at Zodiac, Hanoi’s sophisticated cocktail bar offering exquisite drinks in a stylish ambiance.
THỞ - Wine Space
2.0 km
Explore a world of exquisite wines in the heart of Hanoi at THỞ - Wine Space, where every sip tells a story.
