Hanoi Cathedral: Unique autumn experience in the middle of the old town

Explore the bustling atmosphere around Hanoi Cathedral every autumn. Enjoy sticky rice, sidewalk coffee and capture memorable moments at this iconic destination.

The special appeal of an icon

When the cool winds of autumn blow into Hanoi , the area around the Cathedral becomes a familiar meeting place for locals and tourists. Not only is it a religious structure, it is also a vibrant cultural center where people come to enjoy the typical atmosphere of the most beautiful season of the year.

On weekend mornings, when the temperature fluctuates between 22-25 degrees Celsius, people start flocking here very early. From around 8 am, the sidewalk cafes and lemon tea shops are full of seats, creating a bustling and vibrant scene.

Crowds of people and vehicles in front of Hanoi Cathedral

The beauty of Gothic architecture in the heart of Hanoi

The Cathedral, officially known as Saint Joseph's Cathedral, was inaugurated in 1887. Located at 40 Nha Chung Street, the building has a strong European Gothic architectural style with a length of 64.5m, a width of 20.5m and two bell towers 31.5m high. The ancient and majestic beauty of the church is an impressive architectural highlight, attracting all eyes.

The Great Church is a building with impressive architecture.

Experience unique sidewalk culture

Sitting on small plastic chairs, sipping coffee or lemon tea and watching people passing by has become a typical culture here. The cafes are always crowded, especially after 9am, finding a seat with a nice view becomes more difficult.

Plastic chairs lined the sidewalk.

Enjoy the flavors of autumn

The experience of autumn in Hanoi would not be complete without the taste of green rice. Around the church, many street vendors sell green rice sticky rice, a popular specialty. A 2-ounce package of green rice costs about 50,000 VND. In addition, visitors can also find other types of cakes made from green rice such as green rice cakes, green rice cakes or green rice mochi.

Ms. Hong Thao, a tourist from Bac Ninh , shared: "This is the first time I have come to Hanoi in late autumn. Sitting in front of the Cathedral, eating sticky rice, drinking tea in the bustling atmosphere is truly an interesting experience."

Hong Thao and friends enjoy breakfast "standard Hanoi autumn flavor"

Ideal destination for photography lovers

With its ancient architecture and bustling surroundings, the Cathedral is an ideal setting for commemorative photos. Many couples choose this place to take their wedding photos, while young people and tourists also do not miss the opportunity to capture beautiful moments. However, due to the large number of people, finding a suitable shooting angle can be a challenge.

A tourist couple from Dong Nai took wedding photos at the Cathedral.

Notes when visiting

• Ideal time: Early morning on weekdays to avoid crowds, or weekends to feel the busiest atmosphere. Autumn (September to November) is the best time.
• Dress: Choose smart clothing, especially if you intend to go inside the church.
• Keep clean: Always throw trash in the right place to keep the common landscape clean.
• Respect the space: The Cathedral is still a place of religious worship, so please keep quiet and show respect.

Source: https://baolamdong.vn/nha-tho-lon-ha-noi-trai-nghiem-mua-thu-doc-dao-giua-pho-co-398101.html