The Imperial Citadel of Thang Long was the seat of Vietnamese dynasties for most of the past thousand years, from the 11th century, when the capital moved here and was named Thang Long — the “Ascending Dragon”. It was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2010.
Much of the royal city was dismantled over time, but what remains is fascinating: the stone Doan Mon gate, the platform and dragon-carved steps of the Kinh Thien palace, an archaeological site across Hoang Dieu street exposing palace foundations from several dynasties, and the bunkers and buildings used by the North Vietnamese army command during the war. Nearby rises the hexagonal Hanoi Flag Tower.
What to see and do: Imperial Citadel of Thang Long
Doan Mon and Kinh Thien
Climb onto Doan Mon gate for a view over the grounds, then walk to the Kinh Thien platform.
The wartime bunkers
Descend into the command bunker known as D67 and see the rooms where the war was planned.
The archaeological site
Across Hoang Dieu street, layers of foundations, wells and drains from different dynasties.
How to get to Imperial Citadel of Thang Long
- By Grab: 10–15 minutes from Hoan Kiem Lake; the main entrance is on Hoang Dieu street.
- On foot: 10 minutes from the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum.
Insider tips
- Usually far quieter than the mausoleum — a good escape at midday.
- Allow one and a half to two hours.
- Night tours with lighting are offered on some dates.
Best tours & tickets for Imperial Citadel of Thang Long
These GetYourGuide experiences include Imperial Citadel of Thang Long or pair well with it:
City tour from €29 Hanoi: Guided Half-Day City Highlights Tour with Transfers
A guided tour of the classic sights with transport between them. Check the listing for the exact stops on your date.
- Hanoi’s main landmarks with a guide
- Transfers included
- Half-day or longer options
Walking tour from €25 Hanoi City Highlights Walking Tour — Landmarks & History
A long walking tour through Hanoi’s landmarks with the history explained — a good first-morning orientation.
- Landmarks and history on foot
- Local guide
- Rated 5 stars
Motorbike tour from €29 Hanoi: City Sightseeing Motorbike Tour
A motorbike tour of the city’s sights with a local driver — a practical way to reach West Lake and the outer landmarks in one session.
- Main sights on the back of a motorbike
- Local driver-guide
- Strong reviews
