Santa Claus is coming to town and every corner of Hanoi is filled with a warm Christmas atmosphere. Although Christmas is not an official holiday in Vietnam, Vietnamese people, especially young people, are very enthusiastic about celebrating this event.
Hanoi – the capital of Vietnam is a pleasant destination for visitors who want to celebrate Christmas when the weather is cool, cold and dry, ideal for strolling and enjoying the festive atmosphere. From the start of December, the whole city is adorned with sparkling Christmas designs and decorations that make you feel at home. If you are in Hanoi during this holiday, you can totally have some Christmas fun. Here are the suggestions on the best places to spend Christmas in Hanoi.
Places to celebrate Christmas in Hanoi
1. Saint-Joseph Cathedral
Address: 40 Nha Chung Street, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi
St. Joseph’s Cathedral (known as Nha Tho Lon in Vietnamese) is a Roman Catholic cathedral in the neo-Gothic style that was built around 120 years ago. It is the oldest church in Hanoi to host the religious activities of parishioners.
On the occasion of Christmas, St. Joseph’s Cathedral is always the most splendid and busy place when thousands of Christians and local people gather here to celebrate Christmas.
Several weeks before Christmas Eve, the church was decorated with numerous Christmas trees, splendid lights and colorful ornaments both inside and out. St. Joseph Cathedral will conduct mass from Christmas Eve to Christmas Day. Note that there will be a lot of people here, so it’s best to arrive early and take care of your belongings.
2. Hang Ma Street
Address: Hang Ma Street, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi
Located in the heart of Hanoi’s Old Quarter, Hang Ma Street is always known for selling a variety of ornaments during special events such as International Children’s Day, Mid-Autumn, New Year, Tet holidays and Christmas is no exception.
These days, Hang Ma Street is dressed in a lively and vibrant atmosphere from the crowds of people sightseeing and shopping. It is very sparkling and colorful with an abundance of lights and ornaments for Christmas. Everything you need to decorate your Christmas tree, your home as well as gifts and greeting cards can be easily found here at a reasonable price. Young people also often come here to take beautiful Christmas photos.
3. Around Hoan Kiem Lake
As Christmas approaches, the festive environment around Hoan Kiem Lake with twinkling lights and sparkling ornaments will delight all travelers. Hoan Kiem Lake seems to magically transform into a sparkling pearl at night during the event.
As you walk around the lake, you can easily spot lovers holding hands, children wearing Santa clothes or the night market with colorful items. It is highly suggested to visit a small cafe, order a cup of hot egg coffee and enjoy the cool but lively Christmas atmosphere in Hanoi.
4. Cua Bac Church
Address: 56 Phan Dinh Phung Street, Ba Dinh District, Hanoi
Built by the French in 1932, Cua Bac is a Roman Catholic church with beautiful architecture and a rich history. It is also another perfect place to celebrate Christmas in Hanoi with your loved ones.
In addition, the German Christmas market is held at Cua Bac Church, offering handicraft gifts and musical performances to local people. It is a great chance for Hanoians to understand a different culture during this festival. The fair started in 2017 and received positive attention from many people. So the organizers decided to continue this new tradition.
5. Ham Long Church
Address: 21, Ham Long Street, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi
Ham Long Church is not as well-known to foreign tourists as St. Joseph Cathedral, but it is still an interesting destination to celebrate Christmas in Hanoi thanks to its attractive architectural design and dazzling and sophisticated decorations.
Especially, for those who want to have a local experience at Christmas, Ham Long Church is much more suitable.
6. Enjoy Christmas Dinner at High-End Hotels in Hanoi
If you are not a fan of busy and lively public places, celebrating Christmas with your loved ones in an elegant setting for dinner at the hotel is a great choice. On the occasion of Christmas, high-end hotels often offer a chic buffet, set menu dinner accompanied by musical performances.
Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi, Meliá Hanoi, Pan Pacific Hanoi, InterContinental Hanoi Westlake… are some important names for your choices. From the excellent service, uncomplicated menus, special Christmas meals to the well-decorated indoor and outdoor areas, you will pamper yourself in the warm and sumptuous atmosphere of one of the most luxurious hotels in Hanoi.
