How to Discover West Lake Hanoi

Ranked among Hanoi's top attractions, West Lake is a breathtaking body of water in the Vietnamese capital. Home to some of the city's best recreational points of interest and activity bases, spending the day at Ho Tay can be an unforgettable experience for travellers. From signing up for a relaxing excursion to taking part in some of the best things to do in West Lake, here's how to make the most of your time by the lakeside.

1. Pay Homage to the Tran Quoc Pagoda

Tran Quoc Pagoda is the oldest and most ancient pagoda in all of Hanoi, and no trip to West Lake would be complete without a visit to this iconic place of worship. Located on an island in the lake, the temple is open to visitors from 8 am to 4 pm. Dating back to the 6th century; the Tran Quoc Pagoda was built by King Ly Nam De and is considered a Buddhist edifice of truly grand proportions. Visitors often marvel at the large number of sculptures occupying the venue as well as how each face is different from the other. Ranked among the 16 Most Beautiful Pagodas in the World, the best time to visit the temple is during the hour close to sunset.

2. Paddle Around on a Swan Boat

While it may seem more suitable for couples and children, paddling around in a swan boat is one of the best ways to explore West Lake and its charming waters. Available for rent by the lakeside, you can hire a swan boat for an hour and paddle around the lake with a loved one or a fellow traveller.

3. Bike Around

Those who prefer to peddle can rent a bicycle and cycle around the periphery of West Lake at their own pace. The early afternoon hours are ideal for this activity as many locals descend to this area after work and school to relax and bike around the serene surroundings of the lake. This is also a great way to exercise and work up a sweat while enjoying a tranquil ride with the cool breeze at one's back during this time of the day.

4. Hit the West Lake Water Park

Families based at PentStudio West Lake Hanoi or any other apartment for rent in Tay Ho will find that the best way to cool off during a summer stay in the Vietnamese capital is to hit the nearest water park. The Ho Tay Water Park is a popular stopover for tourists and locals as the venue has been landscaped to resemble the seaside town of Santorini in Greece. Swimming pools, water slides and other attractions are the main reasons that visitors flock to this water park during the warmer months of the year.

5. Explore the Café Culture

Caffeine addicts visiting West Lake may be surprised at the large number of coffee houses around the lake. Visitors can grab a cup of Vietnamese coffee after a paddle boat tour or a biking excursion around the lake. Maison de Blanc, 6 Degrees and LeMarz Coffee Roastery are among the best coffee shops in the area where one can enjoy a great cup of coffee with lake views at every turn.

6. Wine and Dine

West Lake in Hanoi is also well-known for its seafood restaurants and shrimp-fried cakes. In fact, some visitors head to this area just to dig into seafood delicacies and other dishes. Co Ngu Street and Thuy Khue Street are both located a stone's throw from the lake and house countless restaurants where vermicelli and shellfish soup and shrimp cakes are sold daily.