Ba Dinh Square, Hanoi - a group of people riding scooters down a street
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Ba Dinh Square Hanoi

4.6
·6k reviews·, Vietnam

The historic heart of Vietnam, where independence was declared and a revered leader rests. A must-visit for understanding the nation's past.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Mornings

Fewer crowds, cooler temperatures

CrowdLow
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Ba Dinh Square, Hanoi - a group of people riding scooters down a street

Ba Dinh Square Hanoi

Best Time

Mornings

Fewer crowds, cooler temperatures

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

The historic heart of Vietnam, where independence was declared and a revered leader rests. A must-visit for understanding the nation's past.

4.6
(6k reviews)

"A solemn and historically significant site, Ba Dinh Square is essential for understanding Vietnam's journey."

Vertical photo
TIP

Respectful Attire is Key

Dress modestly when visiting the Mausoleum and surrounding sites. Shoulders and knees should be covered. :dress:

Check Mausoleum Hours

The Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum has specific opening hours and is closed for periods. Always check in advance! :clock:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum

Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum

Ba Dinh Square

A solemn monument where the revered leader Ho Chi Minh lies in state. A must-see for understanding Vietnamese history.

Presidential Palace

Presidential Palace

Ba Dinh Square

Elegant French colonial architecture, offering a glimpse into Vietnam's past and present leadership.

One Pillar Pagoda

One Pillar Pagoda

Near Ba Dinh Square

An iconic, unique Buddhist temple with a distinctive design, symbolizing growth and prosperity.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing Your Visit to Ba Dinh Square

Plan your visit to Ba Dinh Square to avoid peak crowds and experience its historical significance. Consider the solemnity of the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and its strict visiting hours. Early mornings or late afternoons are often recommended for a more peaceful experience.

Understanding Ba Dinh Square's Significance

Ba Dinh Square is a pivotal historical site in Vietnam, most famously known as the location where Ho Chi Minh declared independence. It's also home to the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, a place of national reverence. Respectful attire and behavior are expected.

Best Times

When
Mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, cooler temperatures
Crowd
Low
When
Afternoons
Why
Experience changing light
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

🌏✨ Must-Visit Spots in Hanoi! 🇻🇳💙 Save this for your next trip! #hanoitravel #vietnamadventures
@secretescapes_
38.1K likes • 689.2K views

Respectful Attire is Key

Dress modestly when visiting the Mausoleum and surrounding sites. Shoulders and knees should be covered. :dress: TikTok

Check Mausoleum Hours

The Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum has specific opening hours and is closed for periods. Always check in advance! :clock: Reddit

reddit.com

Ba Dinh Square prohibited things - HCM Mausoleum, Stilt House, One Pillar Pagod, Museum and Presidential Palace

reddit.com

Travelling on Independence Day (Sept 2)! What to expect?

Security Checks

Expect thorough security checks. Tripods and selfie sticks may need to be checked. :shield: Reddit

Independence Day Crowds

Avoid visiting on Independence Day (Sept 2) if you dislike massive crowds and street closures. :bangs: Reddit

Tips

from all over the internet

Respectful Attire is Key

Dress modestly when visiting the Mausoleum and surrounding sites. Shoulders and knees should be covered. :dress: TikTok

Check Mausoleum Hours

The Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum has specific opening hours and is closed for periods. Always check in advance! :clock: Reddit

Security Checks

Expect thorough security checks. Tripods and selfie sticks may need to be checked. :shield: Reddit

Independence Day Crowds

Avoid visiting on Independence Day (Sept 2) if you dislike massive crowds and street closures. :bangs: Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.6
(6k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise Ba Dinh Square for its profound historical significance and its role as a symbol of Vietnamese independence. The solemnity of the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and the grandeur of the surrounding architecture are frequently highlighted. However, some find the strict regulations and potential for large crowds during peak times to be drawbacks.

"It was my first time being there. The square was huge and the mausoleum looked grandeur and solemn.
Next to the mausoleum, are Ho Chi Minh Museum (foreign tourists have to buy tickets) and One Pillar Pagoda that are also worth to see."

Thanh Hoang

"The square is very spacious, very neat, clean and well maintained. You can take photos and stay for 1 hour."

劉政文

"Free entry, wear long pants/dress if you want to enter some places. Not recommending going on Monday, some areas are closed."

Mihai Ivanov (Jokery)

What People Like

Historical importance
Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum
Architectural sites

What People Dislike

Strict regulations
Crowds on holidays

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Ba Dinh Square is centrally located in Hanoi. You can easily reach it by taxi, ride-sharing apps like Grab, or local buses. Many visitors also walk from nearby attractions. :taxi: TikTok

Parking can be challenging in central Hanoi. It's often easier to use ride-sharing services or public transport. If you drive, look for designated parking areas, but be prepared for potential fees. :car: Reddit

Yes, it's a pleasant walk from the Old Quarter to Ba Dinh Square, taking around 20-30 minutes. It's a great way to see more of the city. :walking: TikTok

The square itself is vast and best explored on foot. For surrounding attractions like the Presidential Palace and museums, walking is ideal. :foot: TikTok

During national holidays or special events, certain streets around Ba Dinh Square may be closed to traffic. Check local advisories if traveling on significant dates. :traffic_light: Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Entry to Ba Dinh Square itself is free. However, there are admission fees for specific attractions within the complex, such as the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and museums. :ticket: TikTok

The Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum typically opens in the morning and closes around midday. It's closed on Mondays and Fridays, and for an annual maintenance period. Always verify current hours before your visit. :clock: Reddit

While you can view the Presidential Palace from the outside for free, access to its grounds and interior may require a ticket or be part of a guided tour. :moneywithwings: TikTok

Photography and videography are strictly prohibited inside the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum. You'll need to deposit your camera and phone at designated lockers before entering. :camerawithflash: TikTok

Yes, large bags, food, and drinks are generally not allowed inside the Mausoleum complex. Security is tight, and prohibited items must be checked. :baggage_claim: Reddit

🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience

Ba Dinh Square is home to the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, Presidential Palace, Ho Chi Minh's Stilt House, the One Pillar Pagoda, and the Ho Chi Minh Museum. It's a significant historical and cultural complex. :flag_vn: TikTok

To see the main attractions like the Mausoleum, Stilt House, and museums, allocate at least 2-3 hours. If you plan to explore more thoroughly, you could spend half a day. :timer_clock: TikTok

A respectful dress code is mandatory. Wear clothing that covers your shoulders and knees. Avoid shorts, tank tops, and revealing attire. :dress: TikTok

While the main square is relatively flat, some areas and buildings might have limited accessibility. It's advisable to inquire about specific accessibility for the Mausoleum and museums. :wheelchair: Reddit

Expect airport-style security checks. You'll need to pass through metal detectors, and your belongings will be scanned. Prohibited items must be surrendered. :lock: Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Photography is allowed in the main square and around the exterior of buildings like the Presidential Palace. However, it's strictly forbidden inside the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum. :camera: TikTok

Tripods and selfie sticks are generally not permitted inside the Mausoleum complex. They might be allowed in the general square area, but it's best to check on-site regulations. :iphone: Reddit

Capture the grandeur of the square with the Mausoleum in the background, or photograph the colonial architecture of the Presidential Palace. The One Pillar Pagoda also offers unique photo opportunities. :star: TikTok

Drone usage is highly restricted in sensitive areas like Ba Dinh Square due to security reasons. It's best to assume it's not allowed unless you have explicit permission. :noentrysign: Reddit

Early morning or late afternoon offers softer light, ideal for photography. The golden hour can create beautiful shots of the architecture and the vast square. :sunriseovermountains: TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Visiting Ba Dinh Square with children can be an educational experience, focusing on the historical aspects. While the solemnity of the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum might be less engaging for very young children, the expansive square itself offers space to move around. Consider focusing on the exterior of the Presidential Palace and the unique architecture of the One Pillar Pagoda. TikTok

Tip for Families: Pack snacks and water, as options within the immediate vicinity can be limited. Be mindful of the strict dress code, especially if visiting the Mausoleum, and prepare children for the quiet and respectful atmosphere. The Ho Chi Minh Museum might offer more interactive exhibits that appeal to older children. Reddit

🏛️ History Buffs

For history enthusiasts, Ba Dinh Square is an unmissable destination. It's the site of Vietnam's declaration of independence and the resting place of its most iconic leader. Dedicate ample time to explore the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, the Presidential Palace, and the Ho Chi Minh Museum to gain a comprehensive understanding of Vietnam's journey. TikTok

Deep Dive: Research the historical context of the declaration of independence and Ho Chi Minh's role in Vietnamese politics before your visit. This will greatly enhance your appreciation of the significance of Ba Dinh Square. Consider visiting on a day when there are fewer crowds to allow for more contemplative exploration. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Understanding the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum

The Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum is a monumental structure in Ba Dinh Square, serving as the final resting place of Vietnam's revered leader, Ho Chi Minh. Visitors enter in solemn procession to view his preserved body. The experience is highly regulated, emphasizing respect and quiet contemplation. Strict dress codes are enforced, and photography is prohibited inside. Many visitors find the experience deeply moving and a crucial part of understanding modern Vietnamese history. TikTok

It's important to note the Mausoleum's operating hours, which are limited and include closures on certain days and for annual maintenance. Arriving early is recommended to avoid long queues. The surrounding complex also includes Ho Chi Minh's Stilt House and the Presidential Palace, offering further insights into his life and the country's governance. Reddit

Traveler Tip: Be prepared for thorough security checks and the need to deposit electronic devices. The atmosphere is one of reverence, so maintain a quiet demeanor throughout your visit. TikTok

Historical Significance of Ba Dinh Square

Ba Dinh Square is more than just a large public space; it's the very heart of Vietnam's modern history. It was here, on September 2, 1945, that Ho Chi Minh read the Declaration of Independence, proclaiming the birth of the Democratic Republic of Vietnam and ending French colonial rule. This event is commemorated annually, making the square a focal point for national celebrations. TikTok

The square also houses several key governmental and historical buildings, including the Presidential Palace and the Ho Chi Minh Museum. These sites collectively narrate the story of Vietnam's struggle for independence and its subsequent development. The One Pillar Pagoda, a unique architectural marvel, also stands nearby, adding a layer of ancient spiritual significance to the area. Reddit

Community Insight: Visiting on or around Independence Day (September 2nd) can be a powerful experience, but be aware that the area will be extremely crowded with parades and celebrations, and many streets may be closed. Reddit

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