Vietnam National Museum of History: A Walk Through Guide (Hanoi Travel)

Sat, 10/25/2025 - 19:16

Looking for the perfect way to discover Vietnam’s rich past?

Discover the Vietnam National Museum of History, one of the top things to do in Hanoi. Explore ancient artifacts, stunning Indochinese architecture, and centuries of Vietnamese culture in the heart of the capital. Home to over 200,000 artifacts of Vietnam that every visitor should experience. Grasp an insight into ancient Vietnamese history, and immerse yourself into the rich cultural heritage that Vietnam holds.

About the Vietnam National Museum of History

If you’re looking for things to do in Hanoi, don’t miss the Vietnam National Museum of History, a landmark that beautifully showcases Vietnam’s rich cultural heritage. Located in the heart of the capital, this museum houses over 200,000 historical artifacts and offers an immersive walk through time, from ancient dynasties to the modern era.

Built between 1917 and 1926, it was originally the Louis Finot Museum, designed by the French architect EFEO (École Française d’Extrême-Orient) in a stunning Indochinese architectural style.

Today, the museum is divided into two main exhibition buildings that together tell Vietnam’s story, from ancient dynasties and royal artifacts to the country’s revolutionary movements of the 20th century.

* Fun Fact: The museum underwent a major expansion in 2009, adding a second building to showcase more collections and improve the visitor experience.

Location & How to Get There

The museum is centrally located in Hanoi’s French Quarter, close to the Hanoi Opera House and Hoan Kiem Lake, making it easy to include in your city sightseeing tour.

1. Transportation Methods

The museum hosts two separate exhibition spaces:

Main Building: 1 Trang Tien Street
Second Building: 216 Tran Quang Khai Street

The Museum of Vietnamese History is in a central and easy to locate area. It is easily accessible from different means of transport and routes. If you take public transport:

By Bus: Take routes 02, 34, 44, 49 and 51, or E07 (electric bus).
By motorbike: Follow the route Le Thai To - Hang Trong - Hang Khay - Trang Tien and park at the Pham Ngu Lao entrance.
By Hop-On Hop-Off Bus: visitors can also opt for the Hanoi City Tour bus* to fully dive in and immerse yourself into the authentic Hanoi cultures and experience. *(Please ensure to disembark the bus via the Hanoi Opera House for a quicker entry route to the museum).

2. Opening Times & Pricing

The museum is open daily, except the first Monday of every month and on major public holidays.

Morning: 08:00am to 12:00pm
Afternoon 13:30pm to 17:00pm

Below is a list of various pricing structures before you plan a visit to the National Museum of Vietnamese History:

Adults: 40,000 VND (per person)

Students* (College and University) 20,000 VND (per person).

*Please note: a valid student ID is required.

School Children (Primary to High School) 10,000 VND (per person).

Children < 6 and disabled people: Free.

Discounted Tickets*: 50% of total fee for beneficiaries of preferential policies, the elderly, and people with severe disabilities

*Please note: In accordance with current Vietnamese regulations.

Taking pictures: 15,000 VND (per camera)

Filming: 30,000 VND (per person)

Things to see and do at the Vietnam National Museum of History

1. Ancient Artifacts and Dong Son Culture

Begin your journey with the Dong Son civilization, known for its intricate bronze drums and artifacts that date back thousands of years. These pieces represent Vietnam’s earliest cultural and artistic achievements.

2. Dynastic Art and Ceramics

Marvel at the delicate terracotta ceramics and decorative works from the Ly and Tran Dynasties, showcasing Vietnam’s deep cultural and artistic traditions.

3. Modern History Exhibits

Learn about Vietnam’s colonial era, revolutionary struggles, and the reunification that shaped the modern nation. The exhibits tell powerful stories of resilience and independence.

4. Outdoor Exhibits and Gardens

Before leaving, take a stroll around the museum’s serene courtyard. Admire stone sculptures, historical relics, and even audio equipment once used by President Ho Chi Minh. The lush gardens and architectural details make perfect photo spots for your Hanoi itinerary.