Tran Quoc Pagoda

Tran Quoc Pagoda is Hanoi's oldest pagoda, founded in the 6th century during the reign of Emperor Ly Nam De. It sits on a small peninsula jutting into West Lake, connected to the shore by a narrow causeway lined with frangipani trees. The 15-storey tower is the centrepiece, each level housing a Buddha statue, and the whole structure reflected in the lake makes for one of the most serene scenes in the city. A sacred Bodhi tree grown from a cutting of the original tree in Bodh Gaya, India, grows in the courtyard.

Located on Thanh Nien Road, Tay Ho District. Free entry. Best visited at sunrise or early morning before tour groups arrive. Dress modestly — long trousers or skirt, covered shoulders.

Hotel recommendations coming soon.