Highlights of Vietnam, Cambodia & Thailand 3 Weeks

Tour Code: G6CD4O647E6E

4.9 (126 Reviews)

Hanoi - Halong Bay - Hoi An - Ho Chi Minh City - Mekong Delta - Chiang Mai - Bangkok - Siem Reap

From: $1,260 4-star hotels

4.9

(126 reviews)

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Duration

21 Days

Tour Type

Daily Tour

Group Size

Unlimited

Languages

English

About this tour

Hanoi – Halong Bay – Hoi An – Ho Chi Minh City – Mekong Delta – Chiang Mai – Bangkok – Siem Reap

The 3-week Highlights of Vietnam, Cambodia & Thailand tour offers a blend of exoticism, spirituality, and tranquility. This journey is tailored to those with a keen interest in delving into the diverse historical and cultural richness of the Indochina regions, exploring the profound influence of spirituality and religion in Southeast Asia, or seeking inner peace. From the grandeur of history to contemporary elegance, vibrant cultural experiences to breathtaking skylines, immerse yourself in the highlights of Southeast Asia and step into a realm of unique experiences.

Included/Excluded

* Throughout the tour, guests will be accommodated exclusively in 4- and 5-star hotels.
* Accommodation based on twin or double sharing room
* All transfers and road transport in modern, air-conditioned vehicles if specified in the program
* Meals as mentioned in the program. B-Breakfast, Br-Brunch, L-Lunch, D-Dinner
* Your tour guide is a professional, fully trained employee of VTP Travel
* Entrance fees if specified in the program
* Airfares, Cruise, Train, Sleeper bus if specified in the program.

* Compulsory tips for tour guide and driver
* Meals not mentioned in the program
* Single Supplement. Early check-in and late check-out. Hotel/Room upgrade
* Drinks, personal expenses and any services not clearly mentioned in the program
* Surcharge for the festive seasons
* Applicable Government Taxes and other service charges.
* The tour cost does not include POE charges and passport charges.
* Porterage Facility

Hotel List:
To view the list and detailed information about the hotels used in the tour

Please click here: View Hotel List

Itinerary

Morning

Touch down at Noi Bai International Airport in Hanoi. Locate Pole No.10, situated right outside the terminal gate, where our meeting point awaits.

Your designated tour guide and driver will be present outside the terminal gate, ready to chauffeur you to your hotel.

NOTE: Standard check-in time is at 14:00; early check-in can be arranged with an additional fee.

Afternoon

Given that today is a leisure day, you have the option to unwind in your room after a lengthy flight or partake in some enticing optional activities:

Cooking Class/Street Food Tour: Dive into the realm of Vietnamese cuisine by either acquiring skills in preparing traditional dishes or savoring the local flavors through an exploration of delightful street foods.

Water Puppet Show: Immerse yourself in a traditional Vietnamese water performance that narrates fairy tales, legends, or historical stories.

NOTE: Should you express interest in any of the above services, please feel free to reach out to our travel consultant for booking.

Meals: Not Applicable
Accommodation: Accommodations in Hanoi

<span> Day 2</span> Hanoi City Tour Half-day

Morning

Commence the day by heading to the first destination: the Temple of Literature, recognized as Vietnam's inaugural university, where education was imparted to princes and affluent young men.

Proceed to the iconic One Pillar Pagoda, a symbol of Hanoi, and the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, the final resting place of the revered Vietnamese leader.

NOTE: Kindly be aware that the mausoleum is viewable from the exterior and is closed every Monday and Friday, as well as throughout June to August.

Explore West Lake and Tran Quoc Pagoda, the largest lake and the oldest pagoda in the capital.

Conclude your excursion with a delectable Vietnamese traditional meal, after which our tour guide will escort you back to the hotel.

Afternoon

The remainder of the day is yours to enjoy at your leisure.
Accommodation: Accommodations in Hanoi
Departure time in the morning or afternoon is subject to availability; alterations in routes and transportation (car or motorbike) can be accommodated based on your preferences.

<span> Day 3</span> Halong Bay - Overnight on Cruise

Morning

Our chauffeur will collect you for a journey to Halong Bay.

Upon arrival at the cruise lounge in Halong, board the boat.

Around 12:00: Complete the check-in process and settle into your cabin, where lunch will be served as the cruise begins its journey through Halong Bay.

Afternoon

Enjoy a brief intermission before participating in afternoon activities such as sightseeing, swimming, and kayaking at 14:00.
NOTE: Activity availability is contingent upon the cruise's itinerary and facilities. For additional details, please feel free to reach out to us.

Evening

Delight in dinner served on board in accordance with the cruise's theme.

Unwind with a drink on the sundeck or partake in nighttime squid fishing.

Accommodation: On-board accommodation on an overnight cruise in Halong Bay
Our guide will not accompany you during the cruise. The cruise staff, proficient in English, will be available to assist you throughout your Halong Bay experience.

<span> Day 4</span> Halong Bay – Hanoi – Flight to Da Nang

Morning

6:00 AM: Embrace the dawn in Halong Bay with a brief Tai Chi session and witness the captivating sunrise.

Following breakfast, the cruise will guide you to further explore the bay.

Indulge in brunch served on board as the boat returns to the port.

Our chauffeur will be at your service, transferring you to Noi Bai International Airport (Hanoi).

Afternoon

Upon arrival in Da Nang, a car will be arranged to transport you to your hotel in Hoi An.

Once you've checked in, take the opportunity to relax after an extended journey.

Accommodation: Accommodations in Hoi An

<span> Day 5</span> Hoi An Half-day Tour

Morning

Join us for a half-day walking tour in Hoi An starting at 8:00.

Navigate through historic streets adorned with ancient houses and boutiques, providing a glimpse into the daily lives of the local residents.

Explore renowned attractions such as the Japanese Covered Bridge and Fujian Assembly Hall.

Conclude the tour with a cup of Hoi An's renowned herbal drink, available at a local vendor.

Proceed to a handicraft store to witness the craftsmanship behind typical local products and purchase souvenirs for your loved ones.

Evening

Return to your hotel for a well-deserved rest.

The evening is yours to explore the enchanting atmosphere of Hoi An.

Accommodation: Accommodations in Hoi An
(Morning or afternoon departure based on availability)

You have the flexibility to discover Hoi An at your own pace on this day. Here are some concise and informative short tours to consider:

Engage in a half-day tour to My Son Sanctuary: an iconic site showcasing well-preserved ruins from the Champa Empire in Vietnam.

Immerse yourself in a Farming Tour in Cam Thanh village: experience a day in the life of a local farmer, learning the intricacies of crop cultivation and harvesting in the nearby Cam Thanh Village.

Embark on the Hoi An Vespa Tour: a unique way to explore Hoi An by navigating the streets on a Vespa, visiting popular attractions, and indulging in local culinary delights.

Attend the Hoi An Memories Show: a captivating performance that seamlessly integrates visual arts, lighting, music, and storytelling, creating an emotional journey for the audience.

Accommodation: Accommodations in Hoi An

<span> Day 7</span> Flight to Ho Chi Minh City

Morning

Following your morning meal, our designated transport will collect you and convey you to Da Nang Airport for your flight to Ho Chi Minh City.

Upon arrival in Ho Chi Minh City, our chauffeur will be ready to transport you to your hotel, providing you with the freedom to explore the city at your leisure or take a rest.

Accommodation: Accommodations in Ho Chi Minh City

<span> Day 8</span> Ho Chi Minh City Half-day Tour

Morning

Participate in a half-day exploration of Ho Chi Minh City, commencing at 8:00.

The initial destination is the Reunification Palace, a historic site marking the conclusion of the Vietnam War.

Subsequently, visit Saigon Notre Dame Cathedral and the Post Office.

Conclude the tour with a visit to a local market, offering not only souvenirs but also an opportunity to learn the art of bargaining.

Evening

Our guide will escort you back to your hotel, leaving the remainder of the day for your leisure.
Accommodation: Accommodations in Ho Chi Minh City
(Morning or afternoon departure based on availability)

<span> Day 9</span> Mekong Delta - Can Tho

Morning

Commence your journey to the Mekong Delta via car at 8:30.

Delve into the heart of this region, adorned with fruit orchards, rice paddies, and serene villages.

Afternoon

As the day progresses, you'll be transported to Can Tho for an overnight stay.
Accommodation: Accommodations in Can Tho

<span> Day 10</span> Cai Rang Floating Market – Chau Doc

Morning

Rise early to reach the Cai Rang floating market promptly.

Witness the enchanting panorama as numerous locals converge at this bustling hub, transforming the river into a lively trading spectacle.

Embark on a motorboat or sampan to navigate or immerse yourself within the vibrant atmosphere of the floating market.

Engage with amiable locals and savor the flavors of fresh tropical fruits.

Afternoon

Journey to Chau Doc and make preparations for your upcoming trip to Cambodia.

Pack your belongings and take some time to rest before bidding farewell to Vietnam.

Accommodation: Accommodations in Chau Doc

<span> Day 11</span> Chau Doc - Phnom Penh by Speed Boat

Morning

Proceed to the boat station for boarding the speed boat destined for Phnom Penh.

Upon your arrival at the port in Cambodia's capital, a local driver will be ready to transfer you to your hotel for check-in.

Following this, you may choose to rest or explore the charms of Phnom Penh at your leisure.

Accommodation: Accommodations in Phnom Penh

<span> Day 12</span> Half-day Phnom Penh City Tour - Road Transfer to Siem Reap

Morning

Embark on a city tour in Phnom Penh at 8:00 to explore the essential attractions.

Your journey starts from the Independence Monument, followed by a visit to the Royal Palace, the residence of the Cambodian royal family.

Adjacent to the palace is the Silver Pagoda, a renowned Buddhist temple adorned with a floor covered in silver tiles.

Proceed to the nearby National Museum, showcasing over 14,000 artifacts representing Cambodia's rich history and culture.

Conclude the city tour with a visit to Wat Phnom, the lone hill in the city, where you'll hear the legend behind the name "Phnom Penh" and the city's founding story.

Afternoon

Transfer to Siem Reap from Mekong Bus station.
NOTE: During the transfer, our guide won't be accompanying you, but you'll meet your guide upon reaching Siem Reap.

The estimated travel time from Phnom Penh to Siem Reap by bus is approximately 6 hours.

Upon arrival at Borei Seang Nam station in Siem Reap, a tour guide will greet you, facilitate your hotel check-in, and assist with the process.

Following the long journey, take some time to rest and prepare for the upcoming day's itinerary.

Accommodation: Accommodations in Siem Reap

<span> Day 13</span> Angkor Wat Complex Full-day Tour

Morning

Commence your day at 8:00 with a visit to Ta Prohm Temple, an iconic site within the Angkor Complex famously featured in Tomb Raider.

Proceed to the ancient capital of the Angkor Empire, Angkor Thom, where you can explore the Bayon Temple adorned with the renowned Angkor Smile, the Elephant Terrace, Terrace of the Leper King, and the Royal Enclosure.

Afternoon

Explore Angkor Wat, the most renowned site in the Complex and Cambodia's national symbol.
Evening

Indulge in a delightful buffet dinner while being captivated by a performance of traditional Khmer dance.
Accommodation: Accommodations in Siem Reap

<span> Day 14</span> Free Day in Siem Reap

Morning

This day is entirely at your disposal, allowing you the freedom to discover and immerse yourself in Siem Reap at your own pace. Here are some recommendations for your leisure time:

Indulge in a rejuvenating Khmer massage.

Participate in an engaging cooking class.

Explore the local market to savor delectable street foods.

Consider purchasing a one-day pass to delve deeper into the Angkor Complex.

Accommodation: Accommodations in Siem Reap

<span> Day 15</span> Siem Reap - Flight to Chiang Mai

Morning

Make the most of your final moments in Siem Reap before boarding the flight to Chiang Mai.

Upon arrival in Chiang Mai, our designated vehicle will transport you to your hotel for check-in and a chance to unwind.

Accommodation: Accommodations in Chiang Mai.

<span> Day 16</span> Discover Tribal Villages & Artisans Experience

Morning

At the break of dawn, venture straight to the villages of Akha Ban Huay Pong and Lisu Ban Don Loong.

Immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of local ethnic lifestyles and cultures.

Witness the daily routines and agricultural practices of the locals.

Subsequently, the guide will lead you to Ban Pha Nok Kok village, home to a Hmong community, where you'll indulge in a delightful lunch at a local eatery.

Afternoon

Explore the old city area, adorned with numerous sacred Buddhist temples featuring distinctive architecture adorned with golden and silver embellishments.

Seize the opportunity to closely observe local artisans crafting exquisite and intricate trinkets.

Accommodation: Accommodations in Chiang Mai

<span> Day 17</span> Chiang Mai Flight to Bangkok

Morning

Make the most of your leisure time in Chiang Mai before catching your flight to Bangkok.

Upon your arrival at the airport, our designated driver will be ready to escort you to your hotel.

Accommodation: Accommodations in Bangkok

<span> Day 18</span> Highlights of Bangkok Full Day

Morning

Commence your morning excursion at 8:00.

Begin your journey at the Royal Grand Palace.

Explore significant sites in Bangkok associated with or connected to the Thai royal family, including Wat Phra Kaew featuring the illustrious Emerald Buddha, the Eight Colored Towers, the Pantheon of the Chakri Kings, and the Golden Chedi.

Proceed to Wat Pho, Thailand's esteemed royal temple and the birthplace of traditional Thai massage.

Allocate 30 minutes for a rejuvenating traditional massage, offering a splendid respite during your morning expedition.

Afternoon

Embark on a boat trip along the Chao Phraya River, traversing the serene Klongs (canals) in the area.

Make a stop at the renowned Wat Arun, also recognized as the "Temple of Dawn."

Explore the nearby flower and vegetable market along the Chao Phraya River.

Conclude your Bangkok city tour with a visit to the Golden Mountain.

NOTES:

Photography is permitted in the Royal Palace Grounds and the compounds of the Emerald Buddha Temple but not inside the buildings.
Dress modestly, avoiding sleeveless attire, shorts, or sandals when visiting the Grand Palace and temples.
The inner courts of the Grand Palace are closed on Sundays.

Accommodation: Accommodations in Bangkok

Morning

Between 8:00 and 8:30: Embark on a journey to Ayutthaya, situated 80 km away from Bangkok.

En route to Ayutthaya, make a stop at the Royal Summer Palace in Bang Pa In, a property occasionally used by the royal family for receptions and banquets.

Upon arrival in Ayutthaya, savor a delicious lunch at a local restaurant.

Afternoon

Commence your exploration of Ayutthaya with a visit to Wat Mahathat.

Proceed to Wat Mongkol Borpit, home to an impressive giant bronze sitting Buddha statue.

Next on the itinerary is Wat Phra Si Sanphet, a historic relic of Ayutthaya Palace.

Conclude your tour at Wat Lokayasutharam, home to the largest reclining Buddha statue in Ayutthaya.

Around 15:30: Return to Bangkok in the mid-afternoon.

Accommodation: Accommodations in Bangkok

<span> Day 20</span> Free Day in Bangkok

Now is your opportunity to explore Bangkok independently. Whether you prefer shopping in Siam or exploring renowned markets in the city, booking a day tour to visit new attractions, or joining one of our exciting short tours, the choice is yours:

Jim Thompson House & Museum Half Day: Immerse yourself in a vast collection of Thai art within the enigmatic, personally designed residence of Jim Thompson.
Bangkok Street Food Tour By Tuk Tuk: If you're a fan of Thai cuisine, this tour is a culinary delight, allowing you to savor every flavor in a single bite.
Accommodation: Hotel in Bangkok

Morning

Savoring your remaining moments of free time in Thailand.

The driver will be ready to escort you to the airport according to your flight schedule.

Your departure from Bangkok will align with your flight time.

As our long-day journey together concludes, we, as your travel partners, extend our gratitude for allowing us to be part of your Indochina adventure. We trust that you have enjoyed your experience with us, and we eagerly anticipate the opportunity to serve you on future journeys!

Accommodation: NA

Durations

Over 17 days

Languages

English

Regional Tours

Cambodia

Cambodia & Neighboring Countries

Vietnam

Vietnam & Neighboring Countries

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Tour's Location

Hanoi - Halong Bay - Hoi An - Ho Chi Minh City - Mekong Delta - Chiang Mai - Bangkok - Siem Reap

The Legend of Hanoi’s West Lake - 🐉 The Legend of Hanoi’s West Lake – Between Myth, History, and Timeless Beauty📍 Location: Northwest Hanoi | Free Entry | Open 24/7 🌅 Introduction: Where Myth Meets Modern Hanoi Few places in Hanoi capture the city’s poetic soul quite like West Lake (Hồ Tây). The vast, shimmering expanse of water — stretching over 500 hectares — has been a silent witness to Hanoi’s long and layered history. It’s a place where ancient legends blend effortlessly with modern life, where monks, kings, and mythical creatures once roamed, and where today’s travelers can enjoy lakeside cafés, sunsets, and the calm rhythm of local life. But before the luxury hotels, the trendy restaurants, and the scenic cycling routes, there was a story — a legend that explains how this lake came to be. And it’s one of Vietnam’s most enchanting folktales: The Legend of the Golden Buffalo and the Birth of West Lake. 🛕 The Ancient Tale: How the Golden Buffalo Created West Lake Long ago, when the world was still wrapped in mist and myth, a virtuous monk journeyed to China to heal the emperor’s mysterious illness. Out of gratitude, the emperor rewarded him with a generous gift of bronze. The monk, humble and devoted, donated most of the bronze to the state upon returning to Vietnam. Yet with the small portion he kept, he crafted a magnificent bronze bell — a bell so pure and resonant that its sound rolled across mountains and rivers, echoing far beyond human lands. 🐮 Far away in the imperial treasury of China, there lived a golden buffalo calf. Hearing the divine sound of the bell, the calf mistook it for its mother’s call and began charging south toward the origin of the sound. It ran tirelessly across valleys and plains until it reached Hanoi. But when the bell stopped ringing, the confused calf spun in circles, digging deep into the earth in its frantic search. The ground caved in, forming a massive hollow — which soon filled with water and became West Lake (Hồ Tây). According to legend, the golden buffalo still lies deep beneath the lake’s waters. It’s said that only a man aided by his ten natural sons can one day retrieve it — a symbol of purity, family unity, and divine destiny. 🌊 Between Myth and Reality: The Geographical Story While the legend paints a magical picture, geologists and historians offer a more down-to-earth explanation. West Lake was likely formed thousands of years ago as a lagoon left behind by the shifting Red River (Sông Hồng). Over time, the river’s course changed, creating a narrow land strip between the lake and the river, reinforced later by human-made embankments. But even the scientific truth doesn’t erase the poetry of the place. The lake’s still waters continue to hold the whisper of myth — and perhaps, the quiet pulse of that golden buffalo deep beneath. 👑 A Royal Playground Through the Centuries In Vietnam’s feudal era, West Lake wasn’t just a natural wonder — it was a royal retreat. Monarchs from the Ly, Tran, and Le dynasties built summer palaces and spiritual sanctuaries along its banks, seeking tranquility and inspiration. One of the most notable constructions was Trấn Quốc Pagoda, originally founded in the 6th century and known as Vietnam’s oldest pagoda. Sitting gracefully on a small islet connected by a red bridge, it became a sacred center for meditation and royal ceremonies. Even today, monks in saffron robes can be seen tending to the pagoda’s gardens, and visitors come from around the world to light incense, admire the intricate statues, and enjoy panoramic views of the lake at sunset. 🌅 West Lake Today (2025): The Beating Heart of Modern Hanoi Fast-forward to 2025, and West Lake has transformed into Hanoi’s most desirable neighborhood — a mix of traditional charm and cosmopolitan sophistication. Expats, artists, and young professionals call this area home. You’ll find luxury hotels, rooftop bars, craft cafés, yoga studios, and peaceful walking paths circling the water. Despite the modern vibe, the air of legend still lingers — especially at dawn, when mist hangs low and the sound of temple bells drifts across the lake. ✨ What to Experience Around West Lake (2025): 🚴‍♀️ Cycle or walk the 17km perimeter for incredible sunrise and sunset views. 🛕 Visit Trấn Quốc Pagoda, the city’s oldest religious site. 🍵 Enjoy lakeside dining at chic spots like Maison de Tet Décor, El Gaucho Steakhouse, or The Sunset Bar at InterContinental Hanoi Westlake. 🚤 Take a paddle boat ride on the nearby Trúc Bạch Lake, especially at sunset. 📸 Capture iconic Hanoi views from Thanh Niên Street — the narrow causeway separating West Lake and Trúc Bạch Lake. 💬 The Legend Lives On: West Lake in Local Culture The legend of the golden buffalo isn’t just an old folktale — it continues to live in Hanoi’s identity. Local artists, poets, and musicians still reference the mythical creature as a symbol of power, endurance, and prosperity. During the Lunar New Year (Tết), families visit West Lake to release carp into the water — a symbolic act of letting go of misfortune and inviting blessings. Lovers stroll under the flame trees, while elders practice tai chi by the lakeshore, connecting spiritual calm with physical harmony. In every season, the lake changes character:🌸 Spring brings soft blossoms around the temples.☀️ Summer fills the air with lotus fragrance.🍂 Autumn paints the waters gold.❄️ Winter wraps the lake in silver mist. Each phase reflects the rhythm of Hanoi’s heart — gentle, reflective, and eternal. 🌿 Practical Tips for Visiting West Lake in 2025 ✅ Best Time to Visit: Early morning (5–7 am) for sunrise tranquility, or late afternoon (4–6 pm) for magical golden light.✅ Getting There: Only a 10-minute drive from Hanoi’s Old Quarter by motorbike or taxi.✅ Local Eats: Try Bánh tôm Hồ Tây (crispy shrimp pancakes) — a Hanoi specialty born right here by the lakeside.✅ Don’t Miss: Watching the sunset from The Summit Bar at Pan Pacific...Gunners’ Memorial Hanoi - 🇻🇳 Gunners’ Memorial Hanoi – A Silent Witness of Courage and History📍 Location: North of Quan Thanh Temple, along Thanh Nien Street, Hanoi🕒 Open 24/7 • Free Entry 💫 Introduction: Where History Meets the Lakeside Peace of Hanoi As you stroll along Thanh Nien Street, the tree-lined causeway separating West Lake (Ho Tay) and Truc Bach Lake, you’ll come across a modest yet profoundly symbolic monument — the Gunners’ Memorial. Though small in size, this landmark holds immense historical and emotional weight. It honors the Vietnamese anti-aircraft units who defended Hanoi during the American War (Vietnam War), and it marks the very site where U.S. Navy Lieutenant Commander John McCain’s plane was shot down in October 1967. Today, the Gunners’ Memorial is more than just a war relic — it’s a poignant reminder of resilience, reconciliation, and how far Vietnam has come since those turbulent years. In 2025, with Hanoi’s lakeside neighborhoods thriving with life and culture, this quiet memorial stands as a powerful symbol of peace and remembrance. ⚔️ A Glimpse Back in Time: The Story Behind the Memorial During the intense bombing campaigns of the late 1960s, anti-aircraft defense teams were stationed around Hanoi to protect key government buildings and cultural landmarks. The Gunners’ Memorial pays tribute to those brave soldiers who operated anti-aircraft cannons in the area — a crucial part of Hanoi’s defense network. On October 26, 1967, during an airstrike over Hanoi, Lieutenant Commander John McCain’s A-4 Skyhawk was struck by a missile launched from this very position. His plane crashed into Truc Bach Lake, just a few meters away from where the memorial now stands. Locals rushed to rescue McCain from the lake before he was taken prisoner — an event that would shape his life for years to come. McCain spent over five years as a prisoner of war in Hoa Lo Prison (nicknamed the “Hanoi Hilton”) before being released in 1973. 🕊️ From Conflict to Connection: The Story’s Human Side What makes this site truly remarkable is not just its wartime legacy, but the spirit of reconciliation it embodies today. When John McCain returned to Hanoi decades later as a U.S. Senator, he stood beside the very lake where he had fallen — not as an enemy, but as a guest and a symbol of friendship between two former foes. Vietnam and the United States have since developed strong diplomatic and economic ties, and sites like the Gunners’ Memorial remind visitors how history, though painful, can evolve into mutual respect and understanding. Standing at the memorial in 2025, you’ll see local couples taking photos, children riding bicycles, and vendors selling coconut ice cream by the lake — everyday life flowing peacefully where once war raged. 🏛️ What to See at the Gunners’ Memorial The memorial itself is small but evocative — a stone monument engraved in Vietnamese, surrounded by flowering shrubs and shaded by tamarind and flame trees. It’s easy to miss if you’re not looking for it, but the simplicity adds to its charm and solemnity. 🔹 Inscription: The plaque honors the anti-aircraft gunners who “bravely fought and shot down enemy planes over Truc Bach Lake.”🔹 Scenic Backdrop: The site offers a serene view of Truc Bach Lake, with reflections of surrounding trees and small cafés — perfect for quiet contemplation.🔹 Nearby Attractions: Within walking distance are Quan Thanh Temple, Tran Quoc Pagoda, and several lakeside coffee shops where you can sit and soak in Hanoi’s tranquil beauty. 📷 Travel Tips for 2025 Visitors ⏰ Best Time to Visit: Early morning or just before sunset, when the light over Truc Bach Lake is golden and soft — ideal for photography. 🚶 Getting There: It’s about a 10-minute taxi or motorbike ride from Hanoi Old Quarter. You can also walk along Thanh Nien Street if you’re exploring nearby West Lake. ☕ Where to Rest: After visiting, grab a seat at one of Truc Bach’s cozy lakeside cafés such as Maison de Tet Décor or The Coffee House. Both offer great views and relaxing vibes. 🎧 Combine It With: Visiting Quan Thanh Temple (Guardian of the North) and Tran Quoc Pagoda, the oldest Buddhist pagoda in Hanoi — both just a short stroll away. 🧭 Why You Should Visit For travelers interested in Vietnam’s layered history, the Gunners’ Memorial is a must-visit stop. It’s not a grand or heavily visited landmark, but its quiet dignity captures something deeply human — the endurance of memory, the cost of peace, and the beauty of moving forward. Here, history doesn’t shout; it whispers across the calm waters of Truc Bach Lake. You’ll feel the stillness, the reflection — both literal and emotional — that makes Hanoi so captivating. ❤️ Final Thoughts: A Small Monument with a Big Message In a city where ancient temples, colonial architecture, and modern cafés coexist harmoniously, the Gunners’ Memorial serves as a gentle yet powerful bridge between Hanoi’s past and present. It reminds visitors that while the city continues to grow and modernize — with electric scooters, tech startups, and vibrant nightlife — the soul of Hanoi remains grounded in remembrance, gratitude, and humanity. If you ever find yourself wandering between West Lake and Truc Bach Lake, pause here for a few quiet minutes. Listen to the breeze rustling through the trees, watch the ripples on the lake’s surface, and reflect on how far the world has come since 1967. ✨ Travel Tip Recap✅ Location: Thanh Nien Street, between West Lake & Truc Bach Lake✅ Entry: Free, open 24 hours✅ Nearby: Quan Thanh Temple, Tran Quoc Pagoda, Truc Bach cafés✅ Best time: Sunrise or sunset for the most peaceful atmosphere 🌿 Hanoi’s Gunners’ Memorial isn’t just about history — it’s about hope.A story of courage, survival, and the quiet strength that defines Vietnam’s capital.