A Question & Answer Guide to Hanoi Opera House
Just a short walk from Hoan Kiem Lake, the opera house goes beyond its stunning design. It thrives as a dynamic center for the performing arts, featuring opera, ballet, drama, and symphony concerts. Moreover, it offers a unique history and entertainment, making it a must-visit for architecture lovers.
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What is the history of the Hanoi Opera House?
The history of the Opera House in Hanoi is deeply connected to Vietnam’s colonial past and its path to independence.
In the late 1990s, a major renovation restored its grandeur, reinforcing its status as Hanoi’s top cultural landmark. Today, it reflects Vietnam’s colonial past, cultural growth, and the lasting impact of French architecture.
Construction and Colonial Era
Built between 1901 and 1911 during French colonial rule, the Opera House originally served as a venue for European performing arts, catering mainly to the French elite. It hosted opera, ballet, and theatrical performances from Europe, bringing Western culture to the heart of Indochina. Its design was inspired by the renowned Palais Garnier in Paris, reflecting the grandeur of French architecture. The renowned Saigon Opera house is another masterpiece from the same period.
Post-Independence Transformation
After Vietnam declared independence in 1945, the opera house embraced a new purpose, becoming a symbol of national culture. Vietnamese artists began performing traditional music, dance, and drama alongside Western art forms. Additionally, the venue hosted political gatherings and national assemblies, reinforcing its role in the country’s evolving identity.
A Symbol of Resilience
Despite wars and political upheavals, the Hanoi Opera House has stood strong as a witness to resilience and the enduring power of the arts. Over the years, renovations have preserved its architectural beauty while modernizing its facilities, ensuring its status as a premier destination for world-class performances.
Where is Hanoi Opera House?
The Hanoi Opera House, located at #1 Trang Tien Street in Hanoi’s Hoan Kiem District, sits in the heart of the city near Hoan Kiem Lake and is easily accessible from various areas.
Opening hours
The Opera House in Hanoi, opening hours are from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM on weekdays, but it remains closed on weekends and public holidays unless hosting a special event, so checking the schedule in advance for performance times is recommended.
Opera house ticket price
Ticket price for visiting Hanoi Opera House vary by event, with regular tours costing around 100,000 to 150,000 VND (USD4-6), while performance tickets range from 300,000 VND(USD 12) to 2,000,000 VND (USD 80) depending on seating plan and show type.
- Here’s the location on the map (Vietnamese name: Nhà hát lớn Hà Nội)
Why is the Opera House in Hanoi so famous?
It is famous by locals and the Hanoi Opera House stands as an iconic symbol in Vietnam’s capital, celebrated for its architectural beauty, historical significance, and it’s cultural presence. But what makes it so famous? Its reputation comes from its stunning design, deep historical ties, and ongoing role as a premier venue for the arts.
The opera house showcases breathtaking French neoclassical architecture, reflecting the lasting impact of colonial influence on Hanoi’s french quarter .
French architects Broyer and V. Harley initially designed the structure, with François Lagisquet later refining its features. Drawing inspiration from the iconic Palais Garnier in Paris, the Hanoi Opera House embodies the grandeur and opulence of European theaters.
Tour Hanoi opera house
The Hanoi Opera House tour
Visitors to the Opera House can explore its stunning architecture, learn about its history, and watch a live performance. The 2,600 sq.m theater was built between 1901 and 1911, showcasing neo-classical French design with pillars, shuttered windows, balconies, a mirrored room, and Gothic-style doors and domes.
The tour covers the lobby, main performance hall, and mirrored room. The lobby features elegant Italian marble, while the performance hall includes a spacious stage and mezzanine viewing boxes. Behind the scenes, the Opera House houses 18 dressing rooms, two warm-up rooms, a library, and a meeting room.
For the best experience, join a package tour that connects Hanoi’s cultural and historical sites, allowing you to explore local cuisine, visit museums, and watch a performance at the Opera House. These attractions are conveniently located in the Old Quarter near Hoan Kiem Lake.
BEST Things to Do Near Hanoi Opera House
With it’s centrally and convenient location, the opera house would be an ideal place to start your day checking out the nearby things to do and tourist attractions that are actually worth a visit, In addition, you can explore the area near the opera house on cyclo ride in Hanoi. here are few recommendation;
Hoan Kiem Lake (Sword Lake)
Just a short walk from the Opera House Hanoi, Hoan Kiem Lake is one of the city’s top nearby attractions, deeply tied to Vietnamese legend.
According to the story, Emperor Lê Lợi returned a magical sword to the Golden Turtle God (Kim Qui) here, giving the lake its name. In the center, Turtle Tower, is one of the iconic symbol of Hanoi.
Meanwhile, Ngoc Son Temple, located on Jade Island and connected by the elegant red Huc Bridge, honors Confucian and Taoist philosophers alongside national hero General Tran Hung Dao. For those looking for things to do, the lake offers scenic walking paths lined with trees and benches, ideal for a peaceful stroll.
St. Joseph’s Cathedral
Just a few minute walk from the opera house, passing the hoan kiem, there is an iconic church, this historic monument, completed in 1886, stands as one of Hanoi’s oldest. Built during the French colonial era, it showcases striking French Gothic architecture, resembling Notre-Dame Cathedral in Paris with its towering square spires and central rose window. Inside, the high vaulted ceilings, tall stained-glass windows imported from France, and religious statues create a peaceful atmosphere rich in history.
Trang Tien Plaza (top peak for shopping)
Across from the Hanoi Opera House at Trang Tien and Hang Bai Streets, Trang Tien Plaza is one of the Hanoi’s premier luxury shopping mall. It features top international brands like Louis Vuitton, Dior, and Gucci, along with electronics, cosmetics, and fine jewelry.
The Hanoi old quarter
Hanoi’s Old Quarter, just a 10-minute walk from the Opera House, with its vibrant streets filled with historic architecture, street food, and local markets. Visitors can explore a few of the historic temples, shop for souvenirs, enjoy traditional water puppet shows right across the lake, and experience Hanoi bar street plus Vietnamese street foods.
Hotels near Hanoi opera house
There are a handful hotels near Hanoi Opera House range from luxury to budget-friendly, offering convenient stays close to this cultural landmark as well as staying right in he center of the Hanoi.
For a high-end experience, Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi and Hotel de l’Opera Hanoi – MGallery, provide world-class experience.
The Lapis Hotel, Hilton Hanoi Opera, and La Sinfonía del Rey Hotel & Spa are excellent four-star options, balancing comfort and value.
Travelers seeking quality three-star accommodation near the opera house in Hanoi, can consider Hanoi Emerald Waters Hotel & Spa, Golden Silk Boutique Hotel, and Hanoi La Siesta Hotel Trendy, all within easy reach of the opera house and major attractions.
Hanoi opera house schedule for 2025
The Hanoi Opera House’s 2025 schedule features a variety of performances, including classical concerts, traditional Vietnamese music, and theatrical productions.
Important events include the Subscription Concert Vol.171 on April 4, 2025, and the Trịnh Công Sơn music night “Em còn nhớ hay em đã quên” from March 28-29, 2025.
Ticket prices vary by event and seating position, ranging from approximately 100,000 VND to 2,000,000 VND. For the most current schedule and ticket information, please visit the official website:
FAQs about Hanoi Opera House
How can I get to the Hanoi Opera House Hanoi?
Local foods near Hanoi Opera House Hanoi?
Explore Hanoi’s foodie side while visiting the Opera House. Nearby eateries serve authentic Hanoi dishes like Pho, Bun Cha, and Banh Mi. These local street foods showcase Hanoi street life.
Conclusion
The Hanoi Opera House is a top attraction for those passionate about history, architecture, and performing arts. Its stunning French colonial design and rich cultural heritage make it a must-visit for photographers as well. Plan your visit to experience world-class performances and explore nearby Hanoi attractions for a complete cultural experience.
