Things to do in Luong Son

St. Joseph Cathedral is a 19th-century neo-Gothic church built with the Notre Dame of Paris in mind. The church is a gathering place for the large Roman Catholic community of Hanoi and is also popular with tourists. Constructed when the French first occupied the city, St. Joseph Cathedral is a striking example of colonial architecture in Hanoi.

When the former Viet Minh leader died in 1969, his body was embalmed and placed in the grand Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum. This site is a place of great importance to many Vietnamese, and one of Hanoi’s most visited attractions.

The Temple of Literature, known as Van Mieu, has honored Vietnam’s intellectual elite for centuries. Originally a university dedicated to Confucius, this historic temple pays homage to the philosopher and the many intellectuals who have contributed to building Vietnam’s scholarly culture. The grounds have a tranquil air, providing a welcome escape from the bustle of the city. Admire the traditional architecture, relax in the gardens and marvel at the historic stelae (honorary inscriptions).

The Hoa Lo Prison Museum, also known as Maison Centrale, played a significant role in the French colonial expansion of Vietnam. Many of Vietnam’s political prisoners were tortured and killed here. Afterward, during the Vietnam War, the North Vietnamese used it to imprison American soldiers.

The monuments and buildings in the Hanoi Citadel have testified to Vietnam's fight for independence for over 10 centuries. Steeped in history, the iconic buildings, bunkers and military structures portray years of political power and military resistance. Relax in the tranquil gardens and explore the nearby Vietnam Military History Museum.