
Hanoi Central Post Office
A stunning French colonial architectural marvel in Hanoi, offering postal services and a unique souvenir shopping experience.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the midday rush

Hanoi Central Post Office
Best Time
Beat the midday rush
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A stunning French colonial architectural marvel in Hanoi, offering postal services and a unique souvenir shopping experience.
"Gorgeous building, love the idea that you can buy a postcard and send it there and then."

🎯 Beware of Stamp Scammers
Only buy stamps from official counters inside. Unofficial sellers at the entrance overcharge.
✉️ Mail Delivery Times
International mail can take weeks. Plan accordingly if sending important items.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Grand Colonial Architecture
Main Hall
Step back in time in this magnificent French colonial building, a true architectural marvel.

Send a Postcard Home
Counters
A classic experience: buy a postcard and send a piece of Hanoi to loved ones.

Unique Souvenirs
Retail Area
Browse a selection of souvenirs, including MCM collaborations, alongside postal services.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Navigating the Post Office Maze
Sending Mail from Hanoi
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Beware of Stamp Scammers
Only buy stamps from official counters inside. Unofficial sellers at the entrance overcharge.
✉️ Mail Delivery Times
International mail can take weeks. Plan accordingly if sending important items.
⏰ Sunday Service Check
The main post office might be closed on Sundays. Viettel Post is a reliable alternative.
📸 Photo Opportunities
The architecture is stunning! Capture the grandeur of this historic building.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Beware of Stamp Scammers
Only buy stamps from official counters inside. Unofficial sellers at the entrance overcharge.
✉️ Mail Delivery Times
International mail can take weeks. Plan accordingly if sending important items.
⏰ Sunday Service Check
The main post office might be closed on Sundays. Viettel Post is a reliable alternative.
📸 Photo Opportunities
The architecture is stunning! Capture the grandeur of this historic building.
📍 Entrance Gate
The main entrance for postal services is on Dinh Tien Hoang street, not Dinh Le.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors are captivated by the Hanoi Central Post Office's stunning French colonial architecture, often describing it as a beautiful and historic building. The opportunity to send postcards is a popular draw, though many warn about unofficial stamp sellers and potential slow service from staff. Despite some negative experiences with staff rudeness, the building's grandeur and unique atmosphere make it a worthwhile visit for many.
"Super busy, as expected, but such a gorgeous building. Love the idea that you can buy a postcard and send it there and then to a loved one or just back home. Lots of other souvenirs to buy there too. Lovely place to look around if you need something to do in Ho Chi Minh City."
Macy Obrien
"I bought stamps for letters to France. Two stamps by letter, payed 62k for 4 stamps. They are not very fast but after waiting for a while one lady saw that I had letters and nicely sold me the stamps.
BE CAREFUL : there is a lady at the entrance of the post office, selling stamps on the counter, but she does not work for the post station !!! Eventually she will scam you and sell you stamps at a higher price. Be sure to enter the office and go straight to the counters in the back and buy from ladies behind the counter that have access to the letters etc.
I don’t understand why they let her do that inside the post office !! 🫤"
Baptiste Decq
"So there is a guy at the entrance selling you stamps to europe at a random price (310k for 9 stamps which still confuses me) but in the back at the official counter they are 33k which is pretty much the same but the people there seem more trustful. Idk weird experience, but open on a sunday:)"
Anna Meier
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Hanoi Central Post Office is centrally located in Hoan Kiem District. You can easily reach it by taxi, Grab (ride-sharing app), or by walking if you're staying nearby in the Old Quarter.
Yes, it's a prominent landmark. The main entrance for postal services is on Dinh Tien Hoang street, though the building itself is also accessible from Dinh Le street.
While there isn't a direct metro station, numerous bus routes stop near Hoan Kiem Lake, which is a short walk away. Taxis and Grab are readily available.
Street parking can be challenging in this busy area. It's generally recommended to use ride-sharing services or taxis for convenience.
Absolutely! It's right next to Hoan Kiem Lake and the iconic Turtle Tower, making it easy to combine with sightseeing.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to the main hall of the Hanoi Central Post Office is free. You only pay if you wish to purchase stamps, send mail, or buy souvenirs.
The post office is generally open daily, but it's crucial to note that it may close early or be closed on Sundays. It's best to check current hours before your visit, especially if planning a Sunday trip.
Yes, you can buy stamps for domestic and international mail. However, be very cautious of unofficial sellers at the entrance who charge inflated prices. Always go to the official counters inside.
The cost varies depending on the destination. Official stamp prices are reasonable, but unofficial sellers can charge significantly more. For example, stamps to Europe were around 33k VND at the official counter.
Standard postal regulations apply. It's advisable to check with the postal staff if you have any doubts about sending specific items internationally.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can admire the stunning French colonial architecture, send postcards or mail, and browse a selection of souvenirs. Some areas also feature historical displays.
Experiences vary. While some visitors report friendly and helpful staff, others have encountered rudeness and slow service, especially when dealing with foreigners.
If you're just taking photos, 15-30 minutes might suffice. If you plan to send mail, be prepared for potential queues and slower service, which could take up to an hour.
Restrooms are typically available for visitors within the post office premises.
Absolutely! The architecture is incredibly photogenic, both inside and out. It's a popular spot for capturing unique travel photos.
🍽️ ☕ Food & Dining
While the post office itself is for postal services and souvenirs, there's a Starbucks located within the historic building, offering a unique coffee experience.
The area around the Hanoi Central Post Office is brimming with food options. You'll find numerous local eateries, street food stalls, and cafes serving Vietnamese specialties.
Yes, the Starbucks at 4C Dinh Le street is housed within a historic building, blending modern coffee culture with retro vibes and postal history.
Definitely! Explore the streets around Hoan Kiem Lake for authentic pho, banh mi, and other delicious Vietnamese dishes.
Hanoi has a growing number of vegetarian and vegan-friendly restaurants, especially in the Old Quarter. You'll likely find options at local eateries.
📸 📸 Photography
The grand main hall with its high ceilings and arched windows is a must-capture. Don't miss the exterior facade and the details of the colonial architecture.
Yes, photography is generally allowed inside the public areas of the post office. Be respectful of other visitors and staff.
Look for the intricate ironwork, the large clock, the sweeping staircases, and the overall symmetry of the building's design.
Morning light can be softer and less crowded. However, the interior lighting can also create dramatic shots. Experiment to see what you prefer.
While generally permitted, avoid intrusive photography, especially of staff or private transactions. Be mindful of the building's operational purpose.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the postal process can sometimes be slow, keeping it light and focusing on the novelty of sending mail from Vietnam can make it an enjoyable experience. Be prepared for potential queues and ensure you have snacks and water, especially during warmer months. Remember to only purchase stamps from the official counters inside to avoid overpaying.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
For the best light, consider visiting in the morning when crowds are thinner and the natural light is softer. However, the interior can also be beautifully lit, creating dramatic and atmospheric photographs. Be mindful of other visitors and the operational nature of the building, ensuring your photography is respectful.
✈️ Day-Trippers
Allocate about 30-60 minutes to explore the architecture and perhaps send a postcard. Be aware of potential queues if you plan to use postal services, and remember to only buy stamps from the official counters inside to avoid scams.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into History and Architecture
This iconic building served as the primary postal hub for Northern Vietnam during the French colonial period and continues to function as a post office today. It's not just a place to send mail; it's a living piece of history. The sheer scale and preservation of the building make it a must-visit for anyone interested in architecture or the history of Hanoi.
Visitors often marvel at the seamless integration of modern services within this historic setting. The presence of a Starbucks inside, for instance, highlights how the building has adapted while retaining its core identity. It’s a place where history meets daily life, offering a unique perspective on Hanoi's evolving urban landscape.
Navigating Postal Services and Avoiding Pitfalls
Delivery times for international mail can be lengthy. While some packages might arrive within a couple of weeks, others can take significantly longer, sometimes stretching into months, especially for mail originating from the US. If you have time-sensitive items or are concerned about delivery speed, it's advisable to research alternative courier services or factor in ample time for delivery.
For those needing postal services on a Sunday, be aware that the main post office may be closed or have limited hours. In such cases, local alternatives like Viettel Post, which often have more locations open on Sundays, are recommended for sending mail abroad. Always confirm operating hours before your visit to avoid disappointment.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit