Places to Visit in Hanoi Before Tet

In the days and weeks leading up to Tết Nguyên Đán (Lunar New Year), Hanoi transforms into a city filled with color, anticipation, and age-old traditions. This is the most vibrant time of the year, when locals prepare their homes, honor spiritual customs, and welcome new beginnings.

For travelers seeking an authentic cultural experience, the pre-Tết period offers a rare opportunity to witness Hanoi at its most alive. From bustling flower markets to sacred temples and heritage villages, here are the must-visit places to explore before Tết in Hanoi.

Bustling Markets & Festive Shopping Streets

Quảng Bá Flower Market

Located near West Lake, Quảng Bá Flower Market is Hanoi’s largest wholesale flower market and a true symbol of the pre-Tết season. In the days before Lunar New Year, the market comes alive in the early hours of the morning—often from 2:00 a.m. to 5:00 a.m.—as locals and traders gather to select peach blossoms and kumquat trees, traditional symbols of luck and prosperity in Northern Vietnam.

The market’s vibrant colors, lively energy, and authentic atmosphere make it a favorite destination for photography lovers and culture seekers alike.

Hàng Mã Street

Nestled in the heart of the Old Quarter, Hàng Mã Street is synonymous with festive decorations. As Tết approaches, the street turns into a sea of red and gold, filled with lanterns, paper garlands, lucky charms, and traditional red envelopes (lì xì). This bustling street perfectly captures the joyful spirit of the season and is ideal for leisurely strolls and souvenir shopping.

Đồng Xuân Market

As Hanoi’s largest and oldest indoor market, Đồng Xuân Market plays a central role in Tết preparations. Locals come here to shop for dried foods, spices, textiles, and household items in anticipation of family gatherings and holiday feasts. Visiting the market offers a fascinating glimpse into daily life and local traditions ahead of the New Year.

Hàng Lược Street (Seasonal Tết Market)

Open only once a year, Hàng Lược Street hosts a traditional Tết market selling fresh flowers, ornamental plants, and festive decorations. This seasonal market has been part of Hanoi’s Lunar New Year culture for generations and is a charming stop for those looking to experience a more intimate, local celebration.

Cultural & Spiritual Landmarks to Visit Before Tết

Hoàn Kiếm Lake & The Old Quarter

In the lead-up to Tết, Hoàn Kiếm Lake and the surrounding Old Quarter are beautifully decorated with flower displays and festive installations. Families dressed in traditional áo dài gather here for New Year photos, while weekend pedestrian streets create a lively, welcoming atmosphere for visitors.

Temples & Pagodas: A Timeless New Year Tradition

Visiting temples and pagodas to pray for health, happiness, and good fortune is an essential Vietnamese New Year ritual. Before Tết, spiritual sites across Hanoi become peaceful yet meaningful spaces filled with incense offerings and quiet reflection – one of the ideal places to visit in Hanoi before Tet”.

Trấn Quốc Pagoda

Situated on a small islet in West Lake, Trấn Quốc Pagoda is Hanoi’s oldest pagoda and one of its most serene spiritual landmarks. Visiting before Tết allows guests to observe local worship practices in a tranquil lakeside setting.

Ngọc Sơn Temple

Located on an island in Hoàn Kiếm Lake and accessed via the iconic Thê Húc Bridge, Ngọc Sơn Temple is a popular place for locals to pray for prosperity and good luck during the New Year (see Vietnam Airlines Travel Guide).

Temple of Literature

“The Temple of Literature, established in 1070, remains one of Hanoi’s most iconic places to visit in Hanoi before Tet.” (see Wikipedia – Temple of Literature, Hanoi)

As Vietnam’s first national university, the Temple of Literature holds special significance for students and families. In the days before Tết, many visit to pray for academic success and personal growth in the year ahead.

A Unique Cultural Experience: Quảng Phú Cầu Incense Village

Just outside Hanoi’s city center, Quảng Phú Cầu Incense Village is renowned for its traditional incense-making craft. In preparation for Tết, thousands of bright red incense sticks are laid out to dry in striking circular patterns, creating one of the most photogenic scenes of the season.

Travel Tips for Visiting Hanoi Before Tết

Plan ahead: Accommodation and transportation fill up quickly as locals return to their hometowns for the holiday.
Timing matters: While the days leading up to Tết are lively and festive, many businesses, restaurants, and attractions may close during the first few days of the New Year.
Shop smart: Bargaining is common at markets—politely confirm prices before purchasing.
Embrace the atmosphere: Expect crowds, energy, and celebration—this is Hanoi at its most authentic.

Experience Tết in Hanoi with Grand Mercure Hanoi

Staying at Grand Mercure Hanoi, guests are perfectly positioned to explore the city’s cultural highlights while enjoying refined comfort and thoughtful local touches.

Let Hanoi’s festive rhythm guide your journey—and welcome the Lunar New Year with unforgettable moments with us via these attractive Room, F&B and Spa promotions:

For further details or reservation, please contact our hotline at +84 24 3211 5757 or send a message to our Fanpage.

Images source: VinPearl, Nhan Dan News.