This was my second visit to the citadel. I had liked it in 2019 when I toured it with my daughter and it was the top spot in Hanoi I wanted to share with my husband. This time the extent of the complex was not as surprising to me and we saw even more of it. There were a couple of new exhibits but the original gate, the exhibition with relics from the various imperial periods and the Princess's Palace were still outstanding things to visit. I took my husband to the bunker but this time we also looked at Building D67 and the additional bunkers. Again, we were reminded of the 1972 bombing of Hanoi with a reconstruction of the individual bomb shelters that had lined many streets. This time I hired Vietnamese dress from a place on site - just the cheapest version - and was able to wear it around for the complex. I was inspired by doing this in Korea and if I had been with my sisters I would have splurged with more expensive and interesting dresses as we did in Korea but I was with my husband so cheap it was. It was fun. We went to the water puppet show in the afternoon. Do get there early because the seats are often full. The show is a pale copy of the puppet shows at the main Hanoi theatres but the stories are uncannily recognizable. The way the seating is set out the view is fairly limited, particularly if you want to take photos. We also got to see a dragon lion dance in the street.

Was really good to see an Asian take on a ‘castle’ - something so often thought of as western. It is small but then great to see the history, the underground bunker and its military use from essentially 1000 to 1970s! And so cheap to enter…

This is a great stop while in Hanoi. Not only do you get the see the old imperial palace, but there is also an archeological site with remains of an old Chinese fortress. Make time to see this site during your stay in Hanoi.

Thang Long Citadel is located in the very Hanoi center, just behind the Flag tower and 10 min walk from HCM Mausoleum. It is the most historic site in Vietnam capital dating back to early 11c when it was built, and remained the seat of power all over to 18c. Small entry fee to enter, but after passing the imposing main Gate there's not that much to see. Behind the Gate are Museum pavilions displaying old tools, weapons, clothes, etc... Across the street is another part (same ticket valid) with archaeological excavation area.

There are a lot of things to see here. We first visited the South Gate and climbed to the top. We then went to an exhibition hall above the dragon steps that were part of Kinh Thien Palace. The exhibit explained about all of the different Vietnamese Royal dynasties. We then went to the bunker D67 where they housed important Politburo meetings when bombs were falling during the war. Finally we went to the North Gate. That part was a quick visit as there is t much to see there.

This fortified landmark stood majestically before us, showcasing intricate details and rich history. The ancient ruins and archaeological sites within the citadel provided us with a glimpse into Vietnam's imperial past. It was truly a remarkable experience exploring the well-preserved corridors and learning about the significance of this cultural gem. A must-visit for history buffs and those seeking a deeper understanding of Vietnam's heritage.

Large complex in the heart of Hanoi, easy to find and a relief from the chaos of the city. The small cafe inside for snacks and drinks was pleasant. The flag tower is worth a quick look and photo, the south gate is more significant than the north gate. The complex dates back to the 11th century and the site itself back to the 7th century. Various exhibits were on display with limited information available, in a small building and also in D67 bunker - which felt a bit eerie. The Vietnamese government occupied the building during the 1954-1975 war. You can exit the site from various side gates, so chose carefully, or you may need to walk all the way around the walled site, to get to your next destination.

The Location is in the middle of Hanoi city and not really far from the airport. You also have a city tour bus to see around the history buildings near there. Good place to see while traveling to SEA.

Imperial fortification (Forbidden City) built in 1011 during the reign of Emperor Lý Thái Tổ of the Lý dynasty and served as his walled fortress and the following administration center of the Nguyen Dynasty 1802 to 1945, before it was overrun by the French colonial army occupation. The structure is very impressive, but nowhere as impressive as other royal palaces we have viewed in Indochina. The one unique feature was the Vietnam army command communication center bunker that is enclosed behind blast proof steel doors and well below grade. From here the Generals of North Vietnam conducted strategy and directed troop movement. Historical locations like this ancient citadel were off limits to American bombers, in fact most of the city was off limits to bombers, with the exception of bridges crossing the Red River and a few fuel / supply depos (yes some bombs accidently fell into populated areas). The Citadel took a good two hours to fully appreciate the architecture.

An interesting historical monument, definitely worth visiting and spending time on. Don't miss the bunkers either. We were there 1,5 hours, as far as I remember Lonely Planet recommend 2 hours to visit.