7 Best Places To Go In Hanoi Over Tet Holiday

If you’ve ever stayed in Hanoi during the Tet holiday—the Lunar New Year—you know this: it can feel desolate.

Most residents leave the city during this break, which typically occurs between late January and mid-February and can last around two weeks for schools, while many businesses may only take a few days off. Locals often visit relatives in the provinces, and foreign workers take this opportunity to travel. As a result, the city can resemble a ghost town. Many shops close, so it’s wise to have food supplies and plenty of cash on hand since ATMs often run low on funds during this period.

However, instead of feeling anxious about the quiet, view it as a unique chance to experience a more tranquil Hanoi—a rare sight given its usual hustle and bustle. Fortunately, not everything will be closed. Here’s a list of seven places to visit in Hanoi during Tet in 2025.

Hoan Kiem Lake

Photo: baodansinh.vn

One of the cultural highlights of the city is the firework display that occurs over Hoan Kiem Lake. If you plan to visit the lake, be cautious with your belongings as it can get very crowded. Alternatively, you might enjoy viewing the fireworks from a rooftop. Many local hotels now offer rooftop terraces for a comfortable vantage point of the show.

Temple of Literature

Photo: didulich.net

The Temple of Literature remains open during Tet and can actually become quite busy. Located on Van Mieu, this historic site attracts many visitors, who consider it a pilgrimage destination during the holiday, often drawing thousands in the first few days of Tet.

Backpackers’ Hostels

Photo: agoda.com

If you enjoy the vibrant backpacker scene, fear not—the hostels operating in Hanoi will still be welcoming guests over Tet. Significant tours, such as the iconic Ha Long Bay and Castaway Island tours, will continue to run, but schedules may vary due to transportation availability during the holiday.

Ho Chi Minh Museum

Photo: baotintuc.vn

While the Presidential Palace and the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum Complex close for Tet, the museum itself remains open. Visitors can explore a collection of fascinating photographs and exhibits related to Ho Chi Minh, with the nearby One Pillar Pagoda being a remarkable sight worth seeing.

Sofitel Legend Metropole Hotel

Photo by @Sofitel-Legend-Metropole-Hanoi

This luxurious hotel features three bars that remain open during Tet. La Terrasse Bar offers a Parisian atmosphere, Le Pub provides a delightful daily chocolate buffet from 3-6 PM, and Bamboo Bar serves creative cocktails by the poolside.

Thong Nhat Park

Located off Le Duan and Dai Co Viet, this park stays open during Tet, allowing visitors to enjoy leisurely strolls amidst the lovely winter fog that often envelops the area this time of year.

The Streets!

Photo: zingnews.vn

Since it is a rare time of year when the city is less populated, take advantage of the opportunity to explore the streets at your leisure. Dust off your bicycle or simply take a walk and enjoy the quiet beauty of Hanoi.