1. Hoan Kiem Lake
Hoan Kiem Lake is the most visited park in Hanoi, even if it’s not officially labeled one. Surrounded by trees, benches, walking paths, and a constant flow of life, it’s both the symbolic and social heart of the city. Locals come here to jog, stretch, dance, or simply watch the world go by — all while visitors explore Ngoc Son Temple, admire the red bridge, or catch a glimpse of Turtle Tower. It’s busy, but never dull, and manages to feel peaceful even when crowded.
This is the park in Hanoi that’s right in the Old Quarter, so no planning or transport needed — you’ll pass it more than once. Mornings are full of tai chi and joggers; evenings bring couples, families, and students who may approach you to practise English. There are cafes all around, plus the Water Puppet Theatre just steps away. It’s also a central point for city tours and weekend walking streets, so it naturally fits into any Hanoi itinerary.
2. Thong Nhat Park
Thong Nhat Park is one of the few true large-scale green spaces in central Hanoi — a quiet, shady retreat where locals come to walk, jog, and relax by the lake. With its size, location, and mix of daily life and open space, it easily ranks among the best parks in Hanoi for anyone needing a break from traffic and noise. Built in the 1950s as a symbol of unity, the park still feels like a peaceful gathering point for all kinds of people, from elderly groups doing aerobics to teenagers skateboarding in the corners.
Entry is free, and you can walk a full loop around Bay Mau Lake on shaded paths. Some attractions like the Mirror House and small amusement rides exist but may feel dated or inactive, especially on weekdays. Still, there’s plenty of space for kite flying, picnicking, or just sitting by the water. There are also cafés inside the park, toilets on both sides, and a few quiet areas where kids can safely play. It’s around 2 km from the Old Quarter — close enough to visit by foot or Grab, and a great option for a morning or early evening walk.
3. West Lake (Tay Ho)
West Lake is the largest lake and one of the most open, peaceful green areas in the city — a natural escape surrounded by tree-lined streets, walking paths, temples, and cafés. It doesn’t feel like a traditional park, but it serves the same purpose: a place to breathe, move, and unwind. Whether you’re watching the sunrise over the water, cycling the lakeside loop, or just sipping coffee at a waterfront café, it’s one of the most scenic and flexible places to spend time outdoors in Hanoi.
The full loop is about 16.5 km, but you don’t need to do all of it. The most interesting areas are around Thanh Nien Road, Truc Bach Lake, and the section near Tay Ho Temple and the iconic Tran Quoc Pagoda — Hanoi’s oldest pagoda. This is also the most popular area for expats to live, so expect more Western-style cafés and international restaurants compared to the Old Quarter. Renting a bicycle is a great way to explore if you’re comfortable with local traffic, but many just walk small sections. Sunset is especially popular, but roads can get busy in late afternoon — go early if you want quieter views.
4. Hanoi Botanical Gardens (Bach Thao Park)
The Hanoi Botanical Gardens, also known as Bach Thao Park, is the oldest park in Hanoi, dating back to the French colonial era. It’s a shady, peaceful space filled with towering old trees, winding paths, and a calm, slightly forgotten charm. While it may not impress with manicured landscapes or modern facilities, it deserves a spot among the best parks in Hanoi thanks to its historical significance and location right next to major landmarks like the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, One Pillar Pagoda and Presidential Palace.
There’s a small entrance fee (5,000 VND), and the grounds are good for a slow stroll or a quiet break. You’ll see locals playing badminton, kids on school outings, and people exercising in the shade. That said, some parts feel neglected, and there are a few small animal cages with birds and monkeys in poor condition — not something everyone will appreciate. Still, it’s a handy spot to pair with nearby sights and one of the few parks in Hanoi that really feels like a forest in the city.
5. Ly Thai To Park (and nearby Toad Garden)
One of the smaller but more iconic parks in Hanoi, Ly Thai To Park is known for its large bronze statue of Emperor Ly Thai To, founder of the ancient capital. The space is fully paved, ringed with trees, and often used for music performances, cultural events, or simply as a hangout spot for families and couples. Across the street, the adjacent Toad Garden (Dien Hong Flower Garden) adds a splash of greenery and Hanoi nostalgia, with its old French fountain and flower beds. Though small, both parks carry historical weight and are tied closely to the city’s identity.
Located right next to Hoan Kiem Lake, this is a natural stop during a walking tour of central Hanoi. On weekends, the surrounding roads become part of the pedestrian zone, and the area fills with kids on roller skates, students singing with guitars, and groups doing choreographed dances. While not a place to escape into nature, it offers a slice of daily life and cultural atmosphere, especially in the late afternoon. For visitors staying near the lake, it’s one of the most accessible parks in Hanoi to experience the city’s social energy.
6. Lenin Park (at Lenin Statue)
Not to be confused with Thong Nhat Park — which was formerly called Lenin Park until the early 2000s — this smaller park across from the Hanoi Flag Tower still carries the name due to the prominent statue of Vladimir Lenin at its center. It’s more of a plaza than a full park, but it stands out for its political symbolism and unique mix of daily life: skaters, kids with remote-control cars, chess players, and teens practising dance routines all share the space under Lenin’s stern gaze. It’s one of those parks in Hanoi where history and everyday life meet in unexpected ways.
The park is just a short walk from key landmarks like the Flag Tower and the Imperial Citadel of Thang Long, making it an easy stop while exploring that part of town. There are benches, old trees offering shade, and usually a vendor or two selling drinks nearby. It’s not a destination on its own, but if you’re already in the area, it’s worth passing through — even just to see how a Soviet-era monument has become a lively backdrop for modern youth culture.
7. Yen So Park
Yen So Park is one of the largest and most spacious parks in Hanoi, covering over 300 hectares with a mix of lakes, lawns, walking paths, and tree-lined roads. Unlike older parks in the city, it has a more modern, open layout that’s ideal for biking, jogging, or finding a quiet spot to relax. On weekends, families come here for picnics or to rent swan boats and tandem bikes, and there are wide grassy areas perfect for group activities or photography.
That said, it’s not for everyone. Located about 30 minutes from the Old Quarter, it requires extra effort to reach, and some parts can feel underused or a bit neglected, especially on weekdays. Facilities are limited, and occasional litter or loud BBQ gatherings can take away from the calm. Still, for expats, repeat visitors, or anyone looking for a break from central Hanoi’s density, it’s one of the most peaceful parks in Hanoi — just be sure to go with the right expectations.
Tips for visiting parks in Hanoi
Come with the right expectations
Don’t expect perfectly trimmed hedges or grand monuments — parks in Hanoi are more about local life than sightseeing. What they offer is something just as valuable: a break from traffic, a dose of fresh air, and a front-row seat to how Hanoians spend their free time.
Best time to visit
The best moments to visit are when the parks are most alive.
- Early morning (5:30–7:30): tai chi, badminton, jogging, and calm air before the city wakes up
- Late afternoon (after 4:00 pm): dancing groups, families, schoolkids, and golden-hour light over lakes and trees
What to bring
- Cash – for drinks, snacks, or the occasional entry fee
- Sun protection – hat, sunglasses, sunscreen (especially if you walk around West Lake)
- Water – not always available inside
- Phone or camera – not for scenery, but to capture unique moments: elderly people doing fan dances, teens on rollerblades, or impromptu singing circles
