1. Brief Information on Ba Dinh District

Ba Dinh District was officially established in 1961 under a government decree that determined the boundary of Hanoi's urban and rural districts. At that time, the district's population was around 100,000. Here are some key information about Ba Dinh District:

• Area: Approximately 9.21 km²
• Population: Around 226,315 people as of 2022
• Population Density: Approximately 24,000 inhabitants per square kilometer
• Ward: 14 Wards (Ngoc Khanh, Nguyen Trung Truc, Phuc Xa, Quan Thanh, Thanh Cong, Truc Bach, Vinh Phuc, Cong Vi, Dien Bien, Doi Can, Giang Vo, Kim Ma, Lieu Giai, Ngoc Ha)

Map of Ba Dinh District

Ba Dinh District is bordered by:

• To the north: Tay Ho District
• To the east: Red River
• To the south: Dong Da District
• To the southeast: Hoan Kiem District
• To the west: Cau Giay District

Ba Dinh is considered one of the most important and dynamic districts of Hanoi. It holds great political, historical, and cultural significance.

• National political and administrative center: Ba Dinh houses key government institutions such as the Presidential Palace, National Assembly, Government Office, and the Central Committee of the Communist Party of Vietnam.
• Historical and cultural value: The district owns many famous historical sites including the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, One Pillar Pagoda, the Imperial Citadel of Thang Long, and Bac Son relic site.
• French and Vietnamese architectural blend: This area is notable for its many French-style villas and historically valuable buildings.
• Rapid economic growth: In recent years, Ba Dinh has been recognized as one of Hanoi’s fastest-growing districts in terms of Gross Regional Domestic Product (GRDP), with strong contributions from services, administration, and commerce.

2. How To Get To Ba Dinh District

Ba Dinh District is one of the central districts of Hanoi, making it easily accessible from various parts of the city.

Transportation Options:

• Bus routes: Several bus lines run through Ba Dinh District, including routes 09, 14, 22, 32, 33, and 45, connecting it with other key areas of Hanoi.
• Metro lies: The Hanoi Metro is expanding, with Line 2A (Cat Linh – Ha Dong) passing near Ba Dinh. Future metro lines will further improve access to the district.

Directions

• From Hoan Kiem Lake: Ba Dinh is located just northwest of Hoan Kiem Lake, approximately 2-3km away. You can take a short taxi ride, bike, or catch buses that head north and west from the Old Quarter area. Walking is also possible and takes about 30 minutes.
• From other locations in Hanoi: Ba Dinh is well-connected via major roads and public transportation. Whether coming from the airport, train station, or other districts like Tay Ho or Cau Giay, you can easily reach Ba Dinh by taxi, bus, or metro.

3. 10 Iconic Places to Explore in Ba Dinh District

When considering what to do in Hanoi, Ba Dinh District stands out as an essential destination offering a perfect blend of historical landmarks, cultural sites, and authentic experiences. Here are the top 10 iconic places to explore:

3.1. Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum

• Address: No. 01 Hung Vuong Street, Dien Bien Ward
• Opening Hours:
• • Summer & Fall (April 1 – October 31): Tuesday to Thursday and Saturday to Sunday, from 7:30 AM to 10:30 AM.
  • Winter & Spring (November 1 – March 31): Tuesday to Thursday and Saturday to Sunday, from 8:00 AM to 11:00 AM.
  • Extended Hours: On Saturdays, Sundays, and public holidays, visiting hours are extended by 30 minutes.
  • Closed: Mondays and Fridays; also closed annually for maintenance, typically from September to November.

The Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum is the final resting place of President Ho Chi Minh, the founding father of modern Vietnam. It stands as a symbol of national pride and a testament to the country's revolutionary history. The mausoleum was constructed between 1973 and 1975, inspired by Lenin's Mausoleum in Moscow, yet incorporating distinct Vietnamese architectural elements.

One of the most worthwhile places to visit in Hanoi

3.2. Ba Dinh Square

• Address: Hung Vuong Street, Dien Ban District

Ba Dinh Square is where President Ho Chi Minh declared Vietnam’s independence on September 2, 1945, establishing the Democratic Republic of Vietnam. This large open square is surrounded by important landmarks such as the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, the Presidential Palace, and several government offices.

Ba Dinh Square is not only Vietnam’s political center but also a significant historical symbol where many pivotal events in the country’s independence and development took place

3.3. One Pillar Pagoda

• Address: Chua Mot Cot Street, Doi Can Ward
• Opening hours: Daily from 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM.

The One Pillar Pagoda, also known as Dien Huu Temple, was built in 1049 during the reign of Emperor Ly Thai Tong. It is famous for its unique architecture - a small temple built on a single stone pillar, designed to resemble a lotus blossom rising from the water.

The One Pillar Pagoda is a must-visit spot for those interested in Vietnamese culture and history

3.4. Ho Chi Minh Museum

• Address: 19 Ngoc Ha Street, Doi Can Ward
• Opening hours
• • Tuesday to Sunday: 8:00 AM – 11:30 AM and 2:00 PM – 4:30 PM
  • Closed on Mondays and Fridays
• Entrance fee: VND 40,000 per person

The Ho Chi Minh Museum in Hanoi is one of the most significant historical attractions in Vietnam. It showcases the life and revolutionary career of President Ho Chi Minh through thousands of artifacts and documents. The building is uniquely designed to resemble a white lotus flower. It is a must-visit destination for those who want to learn about Vietnam’s modern history and its national heroes.

Located near the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, the museum attracts both local and international visitors

3.5. Vietnam Fine Arts Museum

• Address: No. 66 Nguyen Thai Hoc Street, Dien Bien Ward
• Opening hours
• • Open Tuesday to Sunday, from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
  • Closed on Mondays.
• Admission fee: Around VND 40,000

The Ho Chi Minh Museum is dedicated to the life and legacy of President Ho Chi Minh. The museum features exhibits about his role in Vietnam’s independence movement, revolutionary activities, and personal life, with a collection of photos, documents, and artifacts.

The museum offers a deep understanding of Ho Chi Minh’s influence on modern Vietnam and is an essential stop for those interested in Vietnamese history and politics

3.6. Thang Long Imperial Citadel

• Address: No. 19C Hoang Dieu Street, Dien Bien Ward
• Opening hours: 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM
• Admission fee: VND 30,000 for adults

The Thang Long Imperial Citadel is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that was the political center of Vietnam for over 1,300 years. It served as the capital of various Vietnamese dynasties and holds archaeological remains including palaces, temples, and ancient walls. This site offers a fascinating glimpse into Vietnam’s imperial past and its rich cultural heritage.

It is a must-visit for history lovers and cultural enthusiasts

3.7. Quan Thanh Temple

• Address: Quan Thanh Street, Quan Thanh Ward
• Opening hours: 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM

Quan Thanh Temple is one of Hanoi’s oldest and most significant Taoist temples, dedicated to Tran Vu, the God of the North. Known for its striking architecture and peaceful atmosphere, the temple features beautiful statues and intricate carvings.

Quan Thanh Temple provides insight into Hanoi’s religious traditions and offers a tranquil escape in the heart of the bustling city, making it a meaningful cultural visit

3.8. B-52 Victory Museum

• Address: No. 157 Doi Can Street, Doi Can Ward
• Opening hours: 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM

The B-52 Victory Museum commemorates the historic victory of the Vietnamese forces during the Vietnam War, especially highlighting the downing of B-52 bombers over Hanoi. The museum displays aircraft wreckage, military equipment, and war artifacts.

This museum provides a powerful narrative of Vietnam’s struggle and triumph in the air war, offering educational insights for visitors interested in military history

For those seeking a more comprehensive understanding of Vietnam's military heritage, the Vietnam Military History Museum located nearby in the city center offers an extensive collection spanning centuries of Vietnamese warfare and defense history.

3.9. Lenin Park

• Address: No.35 Tran Phu Street, Dien Bien Ward

Lenin Park is a peaceful green space in Ba Dinh District, popular among locals for relaxation, jogging, and social activities. It features landscaped gardens, walking paths, and a large statue of Vladimir Lenin.

Lenin Park offers a calm retreat in the city center, perfect for relaxation and experiencing local life away from the busy streets

3.10. Thu Le Park and Zoo

• Address: Buoi Street, Thu Le Ward
• Opening hours: 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM
• Admission fee: VND 30,000

Thu Le Park and Zoo is one of Hanoi’s largest green spaces and zoological parks. It hosts a variety of animals and offers a family-friendly environment with playgrounds, picnic areas, and scenic walking trails.

An ideal destination for family fun

4. Taste Your Way Through Ba Dinh: Top Must-Eat Local Delights

4.1. Pho (Vietnamese Noodle)

Pho is Vietnam’s iconic noodle soup, consisting of a flavorful beef or chicken broth, rice noodles, fresh herbs, and thinly sliced meat. It’s a comforting and aromatic dish enjoyed at any time of day.

Recommended restaurants in Ba Dinh:

• Pho Chinh Thang: 07 Mac Dinh Chi Street
• Pho Hang: 58 Yen Phu Street

Pho is one of the most iconic traditional dishes of Vietnam

4.2. Banh Mi (Vietnamese Sandwich)

Banh Mi is a crispy baguette sandwich filled with a variety of savory ingredients such as grilled pork, pate, fresh vegetables, pickled carrots, and chili. It’s a perfect on-the-go snack or light meal.

Recommended restaurants in Ba Dinh:

• Tam Cam Store: 114 Quan Thanh Street
• Banh Mi Co Ba: 24 Phan Dinh Phung Street

This street food is highly favored by both locals and tourists

4.3. Bun Thang (Hanoi Rice Vermicelli Soup)

Bun Thang is a delicate and flavorful Hanoi specialty made with thin rice vermicelli noodles served in a clear chicken broth, topped with shredded chicken, pork, Vietnamese sausage, egg strips, and fresh herbs. It’s a light yet rich dish that requires careful preparation.

Recommended restaurants in Ba Dinh:

• Bun Thang Ba Tong: 56 Ngo Si Lien Street
• Cu Store: 31A Phan Dinh Phung Street

Bun Thang is known with fresh ingredients and excellent broth

4.4. Bun Oc (Snail Vermicelli Soup)

Bun Oc is a traditional Vietnamese snail noodle soup featuring rice vermicelli served with a tangy tomato broth and tender freshwater snails, often garnished with fresh herbs, fried tofu, and sometimes pork. It’s a unique, flavorful dish loved by locals.

Recommended restaurants in Ba Dinh:

• Bun Oc Co Beo: 02 Hoe Nhai Street
• Bun Oc Ba Thoa: 07 Lieu Giai Street

One of the local people's typical breakfast dishes

4.5. Bun Rieu (Crab Noodle Soup)

Bun Rieu is a flavorful Vietnamese noodle soup made with rice vermicelli and a tangy tomato-based broth enriched with freshwater crab paste. It’s typically served with crab meat, tofu, tomatoes, and fresh herbs, offering a delicious balance of sour, salty, and savory flavors.

Recommended restaurants in Ba Dinh:

• Bun Rieu Gac: 91 Van Cao Street
• Bun Rieu Quang Anh: 19 Ho Dam Tron Street

The dish is a combination of many unique flavors

4.6. Bun Dau Mam Tom (Tofu and Noodle with Fermented Shrimp Paste)

Bun Dau Mam Tom is a traditional Hanoi dish featuring fried tofu, rice vermicelli noodles, boiled pork, and fresh herbs, all dipped in pungent fermented shrimp paste (mam tom). It’s a bold-flavored, unique culinary experience beloved by locals.

Recommended restaurants in Ba Dinh:

• Bun Dau Mam Tom Tuan Troc: 23 Phan Huy Ich Street
• Bun Dau Mam Tom Cha Com: 104 Nui Truc Street

A tray of bun dau with a variety of delicious side dishes

4.7. Bun Moc (Pork Ball Vermicelli Soup)

Bun Moc is a traditional Vietnamese soup featuring rice vermicelli noodles served in a clear, savory broth with pork meatballs, mushrooms, and sometimes pork ear or other cuts. It’s known for its delicate flavor and chewy meatballs.

Recommended restaurants in Ba Dinh:

• Bun Moc Doc Mung: 18 Bat Dan Street
• Bun Moc Tran Phu: 38A. Tran Phu Street

Bun moc is a light and refreshing dish

4.8. Xoi (Sticky Rice Dishes)

Xoi is a versatile Vietnamese sticky rice dish, often served with a variety of toppings such as shredded chicken, mung beans, fried shallots, or pork. It can be eaten for breakfast or as a snack.

Recommended restaurants in Ba Dinh:

• Xoi Nguyet: 75 Dao Tan Street
• Xoi Oanh Oanh: 573 La Thanh Street

Xoi is known for its fragrant sticky rice and flavorful accompaniments

4.9. Chao Suon (Pork Rib Porridge)

Chao Suon is a comforting Vietnamese rice porridge made with tender pork ribs simmered until flavorful and soft. It’s often garnished with fresh herbs, fried shallots, and pepper, making it a warm and hearty meal.

Recommended Restaurants in Ba Dinh:

• Chao Suon Ba Loi Cong: 39 Hang Dieu Street
• Chao Suon Ba Tuyet: 47 Cua Bac Street

A hot and nutritious dish

Ba Dinh District is a must-visit area in Hanoi that beautifully combines historical significance with culinary delights. From iconic landmarks to mouthwatering local dishes, Ba Dinh invites visitors to immerse themselves in Vietnam’s rich heritage and vibrant street food culture. When planning your next trip to Hanoi, be sure to include Ba Dinh District on your itinerary to taste, explore, and discover the essence of Vietnam’s capital city.

While Ba Dinh provides urban relaxation, travelers looking for coastal escapes can easily access the best beach near Hanoi options like Do Son or Cat Ba Island for weekend getaways.

Many visitors also combine their Hanoi experience with day trips to nearby destinations - for instance, traveling Hanoi to Ninh Binh by train offers a scenic journey to explore the UNESCO World Heritage landscapes of Trang An and Tam Coc.

If you want to explore Ba Dinh District, book your Flight to Hanoi with Vietnam Airlines today! For more details on flights, baggage policies, and travel itineraries, contact Vietnam Airlines via their hotline at 1900 1100, or through Fanpage or Zalo for expert advice.