• Tran Quoc Pagoda - Start at this monument honoring Emperor Lý Thái Tổ, the founder of the Lý Dynasty who relocated the capital to Hanoi. Listen to the story of the dragon that soared over his court, signifying a prosperous future.
• Hoàn Kiếm Lake - Walk along the shores of this famous lake, the heart of Hanoi. Uncover the meaning behind its name, “Lake of the Returned Sword,” linked to the legend of Emperor Lê Lợi.
• Hoa Phong Tower - Pass by the remains of Hoa Phong Tower, the last piece of the once-majestic Báo Ân Pagoda, dismantled by the French in the 19th century. Contemplate the cultural losses during the colonial period.
• Bún Đậu Cô Tuyến Mắm Tôm Hàng Khay - Pause at this well-loved spot to try traditional bún đậu mắm tôm (tofu with fermented shrimp paste). Experience the local flavors that are a vital part of Hanoi’s culinary tradition.
• Vu Thach Pagoda - Explore Vu Thach Pagoda, a peaceful and lesser-known temple. Discover the significance of pagodas in Vietnamese religious and cultural life, setting them apart from other religious structures.
• T.U.N.G Dining - Pass by T.U.N.G Dining, a modern and creative restaurant. See how contemporary Vietnamese cuisine is evolving, merging traditional tastes with modern methods.
• National Library of Vietnam - Visit the National Library of Vietnam, a symbol of knowledge and cultural preservation. Reflect on the library’s role in educating and shaping modern Vietnamese society.
• St. Joseph’s Cathedral - Admire the neo-gothic architecture of St. Joseph Cathedral, constructed by the French in the late 19th century. Explore the history of Christianity in Vietnam and its cultural influence.
• Bánh Cuốn Bà Hoành - Stop at Bánh Cuốn Bà Hoành to enjoy bánh cuốn, delicate steamed rice rolls filled with savory ingredients. Delight in another aspect of Hanoi’s vibrant food culture.
• Ngoc Son Temple - Cross the iconic red Welcoming Morning Sunlight Bridge to Ngoc Son Temple, situated on a small island in Hoàn Kiếm Lake. Discover the temple dedicated to General Trần Hưng Đạo, who defeated the Mongols, and to the scholars and deities who protect the city.
• Tran Hung Dao - Learn about the legendary military strategist Trần Hưng Đạo, renowned for his victories against Kublai Khan’s invasions, and his lasting legacy in Vietnamese history.
• Cafe Dinh - Relax at Cafe Dinh, a cozy spot offering traditional Vietnamese egg coffee. Enjoy this unique drink while taking in views of the lively city.
• Welcoming Morning Sunlight Bridge - Stroll across this charming bridge, a symbol of peace and tranquility. Appreciate its role in connecting visitors to the sacred Ngoc Son Temple.
• Tượng Đài Quyết Tử - Visit the Tượng Đài Quyết Tử (Martyrs’ Monument), honoring those who gave their lives for Vietnam’s independence. Reflect on the country’s turbulent history and the resilience of its people.
• The Pen Tower - End your tour at The Pen Tower, an iconic structure symbolizing the importance of literature and education in Vietnamese culture. Learn about its historical significance and admire its unique architecture.

• Unlimited, lifetime use of the tour
• Virtual playback option to listen like an audiobook
• Offline access to audio, maps, and geodata
• Self-guided GPS tour for flexibility
• Directions to the starting point

• Please bring your own smartphone and headphones
• Tickets to any optional attractions and sites en route
• Food and drink
• Smartphones and headphones

Experience the magic of GPS playback on this immersive stroll through Hanoi. On this self-guided tour, you’ll explore myths and legends surrounding the lake where a giant turtle god lives.

This tour will take you around Hanoi’s Hoàn Kiếm Lake. Tour producer Joshua Zukas has woven the mythological and historical together to help you peel back the layers of the city’s millennium-long history.

On the tour, Joshua will tell you about the dragon that supposedly swooped overhead in approval when the emperor moved the imperial capital here. You’ll hear the legend of the lake reclaiming a divine sabre that repelled northern invaders and learn about the herd of mythical beasts that have made their home close to its waters.

By the end of this tour, you’ll have a deeper appreciation of this layered city. You’ll also have the tools to explore independently after the tour – from identifying which alleyway you want to explore to knowing where to have your next meal or coffee.

• Please bring your own smartphone and headphones

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.