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Trúc Bạch Lake

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Trúc Bạch Lake

Trúc Bạch Lake

Trúc Bạch Lake is a freshwater lake in Hanoi, formed when a portion of the larger West Lake was separated by a long time ago. Visitors typically go here for a quiet walk along the perimeter or to visit the site where U.S. Navy pilot John McCain crash-landed during the Vietnam War. The area is characterized by a slower pace compared to the city's central districts.

Getting There

The lake is located just north of the Old Quarter. From the city centre, you can reach it via taxi or ride-hailing app in approximately 10 to 15 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.

Duration of Visit

Depending on your interest in the historical markers and whether you choose to walk the entire loop, allow 1 to 2 hours for a visit.

When to Visit

Early morning and late afternoon are the most suitable times to visit to avoid the midday heat. The lake is generally less crowded than the nearby Hoan Kiem Lake, though the surrounding roads can be busy with local traffic. Autumn and spring offer the most moderate temperatures for walking.

Nearby Attractions

Because of its location, the lake can be combined with several other historical and religious sites within walking distance:

  • Trấn Quốc Pagoda (0.3km)
  • Quán Thánh Temple (0.3km)
  • Cua Bac Church (0.5km)
  • Presidential Palace of Vietnam (0.8km)

Updated September 8, 2026 · Edited by the World by City editors

Tickets & tours

Admission prices and opening hours change often, so we don't list them here. Check what's on sale and at what price below — booking ahead can cut the queue at some places.

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Stays near Trúc Bạch Lake

Sorted by distance, walkable ones first. Distances are straight-line.

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Good to visit alongside

Trấn Quốc Pagoda

Temples & religious sites

Trấn Quốc Pagoda

A temple on the shore of West Lake in Hanoi, Vietnam, with a history dating back to the 6th century. Several stupas remain on the grounds, making it a pleasant place to explore alongside the lake scenery.

0.3 km away

Quán Thánh Temple

Temples & religious sites

Quán Thánh Temple

Built in the 11th century, this Taoist temple is regarded as one of Hanoi's four sacred temples. It is dedicated to Tran Vu and houses Vietnam's largest bronze statue, standing 4 meters tall and weighing 4 tons.

0.3 km away

Cua Bac Church

Temples & religious sites

Cua Bac Church

A Catholic church in central Hanoi, built in 1932 as part of urban planning during the French Indochina period. Along with Ham Long Church and St. Joseph's Cathedral, it is considered one of Hanoi's three major churches.

0.5 km away

Presidential Palace of Vietnam

Castles & palaces

Presidential Palace of Vietnam

A yellow building that once served as the residence of the French colonial governor, it is now used as the official residence of Vietnam's president. Visitors can stroll through gardens surrounding a small lake and view furnishings once used by Ho Chi Minh.

0.8 km away

Presidential Palace Historical Site

Museums & galleries

Presidential Palace Historical Site

This former residence stands near Ba Dinh Square in Hanoi, just behind the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum. Ho Chi Minh lived here from 1954 to 1969, spending most of the revolutionary period at the site, and it offers a glimpse into his modest way of life.

1.0 km away

Ba Ðình Square

Parks & gardens

Ba Ðình Square

A square that holds the history of Vietnam's independence, where Ho Chi Minh proclaimed the country's founding in 1945. After his death, a mausoleum was built here to house his remains.

1.0 km away