List of amazing things to do in Hanoi – as entertaining and intriguing as it gets

Part of the Son Mountain range, the Perfume Pagoda owes its origin to the 15th century and a mesmeric feature of the pagoda is that it was carved from solid rock. Upon entry to the shrine, the visitor will be awed by its alleyways and astounding scenery that take on free-flowing streams and thick jungle; each element enhancing the appeal of one of Hanoi's most treasured possessions and Buddhist temples.

Comprising a wet market on the ground floor where the freshest produce can be obtained and experienced together with a host of other stores where varying apparel products and best buys can be picked up, the Dong Xuan Market ought to be listed out on your travel itinerary. Considered a great way to learn of the locals' ways of life and to do a bit of snooping around for that elusive souvenir, Dong Xuan Market built in 1889 is found at the northern tip of the Hanoi Old Quarter.

Undoubtedly the most favourite place to be in Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi's Old Quarter is the heart and soul of the Vietnamese capital. With historic pagodas, colonial-style business establishments and lines of street food outlets that are known for their quantity & taste; the Old Quarter is the perfect beginning to your travels within the city. Also, scattered within parts of the Quarter are some of the locale's most visited destinations which include the Hanoi Opera House and Bah Ma Temple. As a word of advice, it is mandatory that you have on your trusty pair of walking shoes as you will certainly need them to cover every inch of the area.

Denoting the intricate elements of the Paris Opera House, the Hanoi Opera House which is nestled in the French Quarter in Hanoi sets the stage for a truly rewarding time. Here, the performances revolve around local opera, music concerts, ballet, and folk music and afford the lover of the arts an opportunity to be seated in the company of Gothic domes, stunning balconies and shuttered windows.

The Temple of Literature which saw the light of day in 1070 has left an indelible mark in Vietnam's history for more than one reason. Seen more as a place of study than a sanctuary of worship, the Temple consists of buildings of the Tran & Ly Dynasties, well-manicured lawns, impressive courtyards, pavilions, and turtle steles; the latter which is utilized for the purpose of including the names of newly passed out doctors.

Known as the final resting place of Vietnam's greatest leader, Ho Chi Ming who was fondly called 'Uncle Ho', this mausoleum which took two years to build was opened to the general public in 1975. Hewn out of granite and surrounded by well-kept pathways and sprinklings of greenery, this tourist attraction is found in close proximity to Pan Pacific Hanoi and as it is a Hanoi hotel that guests can easily navigate the entirety of what the city has to offer.

Having been made a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2010, the Imperial Citadel of Thang Long retains a special place in the annals of the country's history. The premises were Vietnam's capital for eight centuries and further, was where political discourse was debated and the government took shape for thirteen long centuries. The display room is worthy of one's time and focus for it is where artifacts relating to ancient palaces, ponds and roads coupled with pottery, bronze coins and ceramics are found.