Hoan Kiem Lake

A short distance from the old quarters, it is a scenic attraction in the heart of the city. Many people do their morning walk around the lake. There is a small island in the middle of the lake with a small pagoda. However, there is no public access to the island. There is another bigger island called Jade Island, where one can reach easily after crossing a red wooden bridge. In the evening time, lake and the surrounding areas are the main tourist hang outs and are popular to the local youngsters. The dazzling lights all around the lake and the neon signs in the pubs and restaurants transform the lake area to a real tourist attraction in the evening. Coffee houses and restaurants overflow with tourists and the Hanoi youngsters gather around for a leisure time, their scooters parked close by. There are a number of restaurants across the lake and some have rooftop bars and restaurants. The view of the lake and the city square from the rooftop restaurant is spectacular. There is an ice-cream parlor by the lake side that is always busy in the evening. The fountain across the Highland Coffee place near the lake is a favourite local hangout. There are decent hotels within walking distances from the lake. For example, the Pearl Hotel is located in the old quarter and is just six to seven minutes walk from the lake.