[2025 Hanoi Attraction] Travel Guide for Hoa Lo Prison (Updated Jun)

If you’re looking for something to do that involves history, I’d recommend coming here. I chose to walk through and read everything myself but I think for the full immersive experience, you should get one of those audio devices (though, it seems like it might have been hard to hear with all the tour groups happening at once). Although I enjoyed getting to learn about this prison’s history, I wish they really went into the details/horrors of the lives of people here. But maybe that was explained in the audio devices? I’m not sure, but it definitely felt like basic info if you just read through their labels. Another thing I wished they did was have a translation for all the letters and correspondence. Would’ve been cool to actually understand more of what was said besides the summarized idea. Regardless, still cool to enter n experience for the cost of 50k. Maybe next time I’ll use the audio lol

#100TravelWays I went to Hanoi today to do some things and took a day trip to Hanoi! Visited the prison museum, the atmosphere inside was quite gloomy! But it also made me understand the story of Vietnam in the old days when the French colonists came to execute the rebels at that time! Although there is a horrific guillotine inside, it gave me a deeper understanding of the story of Vietnam during the colonial era.

Maison Centrale, often referred to as the Hanoi Hilton, is a stark reminder of Vietnam's tumultuous history. Situated in the heart of Hanoi, this former prison's imposing walls encase stories of resilience, endurance, and human spirit. Originally established by the French colonialists to house Vietnamese political prisoners, it later became infamous during the Vietnam War as a detention center for American POWs. As you navigate the corridors and cells, the museum meticulously documents the harrowing conditions prisoners endured, making it an emotionally charged experience. Lifelike mannequins, personal artifacts, and detailed accounts give visitors a profound understanding of the prisoners' lives. Particularly poignant is the contrast between the narratives of the colonial era and the Vietnam War, offering a holistic perspective on the prison's role over the years. While the content is undeniably heavy, it is also a testament to the indomitable spirit of those who were incarcerated here. Maison Centrale serves not only as a historical monument but also as a place of reflection, reminding visitors of the high costs of freedom and the importance of understanding and remembering the past. For history enthusiasts and those seeking a deeper insight into Vietnam's narrative, this prison-museum is an essential stop on the Hanoi itinerary. #familytravel #couplestrip #deliciousfood #칼라운지 #Hanoi #Vietnam

I visited Hoa Lo Prison, one of the famous spots in Hanoi. It is very realistic because it is the prison that was actually used at the time. I thought it would be over in a flash, but there were many interesting exhibits, so it wasn't like that at all...! I was able to learn about the history of Vietnam. It is a facility that makes you think about a lot of things. I highly recommend visiting! By the way, the ticket was 30,000 VND, and children were free. You can also borrow a Japanese translation machine for 100,000 VND✨ 📍Hoa Lo Prison 1 P. Hoả Lò, Trần Hưng Đạo, Hoàn Kiếm, Hà Nội #Vietnam trip #Hanoi #Vietnam #Museum #Overseas travel

I went to Hoa Lo Relic to learn more about my country's history. The visit makes me value further the hardship and the effort that out ancestors made to bring about the peace that we are freely enjoying today. Are you a fan of history? make sure you check out Hoa Lo Relic for a deeper view about Vietnam's wars.

Hoa Lo Prison was dubbed the “Hanoi Hilton” by American POWs. Today the former guard house remains as a museum with many historical artifacts on display. It provides a fascinating perspective, especially for American tourists who aren’t used to being painted in a negative light. The whole place takes maybe two hours to explore. #mynovgetaway#awesomepic

Huolu Prison is located in the south of the lake, about 10 minutes' walk from the cathedral to the museum. The exhibitions on site are in French and English. There is an audio guide, and he also has clear instructions on the way.   #bucketlist #tbt #bucketlist#tbt

Hoa Lo Prison offers a fascinating insight into French colonial history, the Vietnamese resistance movement & the prison's place in history as the "Hanoi Hilton" during the American/Vietnam war. Only a small section of the prison remains, & its early history is harrowing, but by the end of your visit it leaves you feeling a little uplifted about the power of international friendship. #hanoi #vietnamwar #happynewyear

This is the corner right near Hoa Lo Prison and Supreme Court. Both important figures and wars remants. While one remain as the place to pursue and protect justice, the other one becomes a constant reminder of the pain Vietnamese people suffered for the peace today and the perseverance that earned the peaceful country its today

#AbsolutelyFreeTrip 📍Hoa Lo Prison 1 P. Hoả Lò, Trần Hưng Đạo, Hoàn Kiếm, Hà Nội, Vietnam This prison, which can be walked from the center of Hanoi, is an essential facility for talking about history, as it is closely related to the Vietnam War. As a prison camp for prisoners of war, there are many cruel exhibits on the treatment of prisoners of war, which can be painful, but I think it is necessary to know the country. There is a lot of information, and there are audio guides and pamphlets translated into Japanese, so even Japanese people can learn a lot. It costs about 300 yen (depending on the exchange rate) to enter, so if you come to Hanoi, be sure to visit!

Located in Hanoi, Hoa Lo Prison was originally built during the French colonial era to detain independence activists. Today, it operates as a museum. The exhibits, including narrow and dark cells, torture devices, and an actual escape route, vividly portray the harrowing history of the time. During the Vietnam War, it was also used as a detention center for American prisoners of war, making it a place that reflects the pain of history and the human stories within.

📍Itinerary Introduction 🚩Travel route 🚌 One day tour to Halong Bay, Ninh Binh 🏖️Check-in attractions 👣City Walk St. Joseph's Cathedral (must-visit 📸), Hoa Lo Prison, Hanoi Opera House 🚇Transportation Grab 💚 Calling a taxi between attractions in Hanoi Old Quarter is about HKD $10 🍜Special Food Pho, Obama noodles, spring rolls, seafood, butter hot pot on the street 🏠Accommodation recommendations 1. Hanoi Paan Hotel & SPA (The hotel is very close to all attractions in Hanoi Old Quarter) 💡Notes: Be careful of thieves, keep your wallet safe, and don't use your phone on the road When entering temples and Ho Chi Minh's former residence, remember to wear knee-length pants and short-sleeved tops, otherwise you will be asked to leave if you are seen from a distance. 💰Average consumption: 2000+HKD / 6D5N The food is generally cheap, with pudding costing $2.4 each and a bowl of rice noodles costing $15. And the average massage is 400000 vnđ / 1 hour, about HKD $120

HOA LO PRISON - HANOI That day I went at around 4pm so it was quite empty, around 6pm the crowd thinned out.... so people could go earlier to avoid the rush. The first impression was surprise, because everything was quite neat, from the ticket sellers, receptionists to the people renting out the tour guides, all of whom were very young. The landscape inside the relic site was decorated and designed in many places very new and clean... mixed with a bit of modernity but still not losing the ancient and creepy look. If you explore by yourself, observe the artifacts, read the notes or watch the films on the screen, you will partly see the resilience and indomitability of our ancestors, and if you listen to the tour guide, you will know more stories spread around the relic site as a route.... Parking here is free, the entrance fee is 30k, the tour guide rental fee is 50k. Overall, it's an interesting experience, you can also bring your parents, because I'm quite shy so I don't dare to go on a night tour, only during the day to be less scared :P #Checkinvietnam #checkinhanoi #huylinhtinh

When visiting Hanoi, a trip to Hoa Lo Prison (also known as "The Furnace Prison" or "Maison Centrale") is highly recommended. Be sure to rent an audio guide, as this is not just a casual sightseeing experience but a deep dive into history. Through the audio guide, you can gain a clearer understanding of the inhumane conditions endured by Vietnamese political prisoners here. These include cramped and dimly lit cells, a life restricted by shackles, and an exhausting labor environment. The most chilling area of the prison is the death row cells, which are small, dark, and feature the guillotine used at the time—a sight that sends shivers down your spine. While the visit is heavy and somber, it also prompts reflection on the value of freedom and human rights. This is not a "fun" attraction but a witness to history. For those who wish to truly understand Vietnam's past and the struggles of its people, Hoa Lo Prison is absolutely worth a visit.

#earthdayjourney #walking tour #travel My journey began at Hoa Lo Prison, a place steeped in the past, where the walls seem to whisper tales of resilience. As I walked through the prison's haunting corridors, I couldn’t help but feel the weight of its history, the echoes of those who once stood in defiance. From there, I meandered through the bustling streets, feeling the rhythm of Hanoi’s daily life. The city was alive, with motorbikes whizzing by, street vendors calling out, and the tantalizing scent of pho filling the air. I reached the magnificent St. Joseph Cathedral, a French-colonial masterpiece standing proudly amidst the urban chaos. The cathedral’s towering spires reached toward the sky, a tranquil contrast to the hum of the city below. Walking through Hanoi isn’t just a way to get from point A to B, it’s the best way to truly see the city. Every street, every corner, holds something new to discover, a hidden gem waiting to be noticed.

We visited Hoa Lo Prison in Hanoi, Vietnam. No reservation is required and admission is paid on the spot, with multilingual guidance available for an additional fee. This facility was built by the French government during the French colonial period to house Vietnamese activists who opposed the colonial regime. It was used by the Vietnamese government to house American prisoners of war during the Vietnam War. The hellish scenes and harsh conditions that took place there are depicted using a variety of real tools and recreated dolls. #Spring0yenTrip #HoaLoPrison #Hanoi #Vietnam

#springwander Maison Centrale, also known as Hoa Lo Prison Museum, is a compelling spring travel destination in Hanoi, offering visitors a deep dive into Vietnam’s rich history and resilience. Originally built by the French in the late 19th century to imprison Vietnamese political dissidents, the site later became infamous as the “Hanoi Hilton” during the Vietnam War. Spring is an excellent time to visit Maison Centrale, as the mild weather makes exploring the indoor and outdoor exhibits comfortable and reflective. The museum’s well-preserved cells, historical artifacts, and thought-provoking displays provide an immersive experience, shedding light on the struggles and sacrifices of those who were imprisoned here. For history enthusiasts and cultural explorers, Maison Centrale is a must-visit site in Hanoi, where the past meets the present in an impactful and memorable way.

#MarchGoodPlaces2025 Returning to #Vietnam after 10 years 🇻🇳 I went to the south ten years ago, and this time I went to #NorthVietnam and #CentralVietnam, Crossing the road still requires some courage. Cafes are still everywhere. Tourists are sitting on the roadside drinking the famous #eggcoffee, It seems that Vietnam has not changed much in the past ten years. I felt an inexplicable sense of familiarity when I walked around for a while. 🎒Hoa Lo Prison #Hoa Lo Prison Regarding the abuse of political prisoners in Vietnam during the French colonial period, I thought the atmosphere would be scary. After all, the torture instruments and cells inside were real ones that had been used before, and even the guillotine that had been used three times was on display. But there are so many tourists in the whole museum, so it doesn’t feel deep at all. 🎒Maison Marou #ChocolateFlagshipStore All the cocoa in the store is produced locally in Vietnam. The price is a little expensive, but the chocolate is really delicious. Highly recommend the chocolate milkshake! #ChocolateControl A rare quiet cafe in the bustling city 🍫 This chain store also has a location in #Hoi An Ancient Town! #Hanoi #Hanoi Attractions #Maisonmarou #Free Travel #Travel #cafehopping

📍 Itinerary Overview 🚩 Sightseeing Route 1. Old Quarter District 🏖️ Must-Visit Attractions 1. Hoan Kiem Lake 2. Hoa Lo Prison 🚇 Transportation 1. Walking! 📷 Photo Spots 1. Hoan Kiem Lake 2. Hoa Lo Prison 3. Local life in general! 🍜 Local Cuisine 1. MET Vietnamese Restaurant & Vegan 2. VIET Restaurant Hang Bong 🏠 Accommodation 1. Hanoi Boutique Hotel & Spa 💡 Tips

A place where traces of the history of Vietnam's independence activists being imprisoned and tortured during the 100 years of French colonial rule in Vietnam remain! A place where you can share and feel the pain of our Republic of Korea's Japanese colonial period! The interior feels a bit gloomy, but it's a good place to visit and tour at least once! I recommend it!

The Hoa Lò Prison Museum in Hanoi, formerly known as Hỏa Lò Prison, was built by French colonists in 1896 and was then known as Maison Centrale. This prison is located in the center of Hanoi. Because the original location was a kiln village for making ceramics, the locals call it "the furnace." During the French colonial period, Huolu Prison was one of the largest prisons in North Vietnam, mainly used to detain political prisoners who opposed French colonialism. After North Vietnam's independence in 1954, Huolu Prison became a state prison and continued to hold serious criminals. During the Vietnam War, it was converted into a place to detain American prisoners of war. Because of its harsh conditions and the way it treated prisoners of war, it was ironically called the Hanoi Hilton by the US military. In 1993, about one-third of the original site in the southeast corner of Huolu Prison was converted into a museum. After the overall visit, I personally think this is a museum worth visiting in Hanoi. The prison displays many torture instruments used in the past, and the cells also contain relics left by the prisoners. There is also a towering guillotine and a small dark room where one leg is locked, which are both chilling. The dim cell and the only tree in the corridor formed a sharp contrast. I walked all the way with a heavy heart until the end where I saw a monument. I saw foreigners offering sacrifices with flowers, and it felt so peaceful. 🌈When visiting, it is recommended to rent an interpreter, which has a special Chinese channel so that you can learn more stories. Many Vietnamese revolutionaries, politicians such as Xuan Thuy, Mei Ngoc Thuy and Nguyen Van Min were also imprisoned here. You can rent an audio guide to learn more about the story, such as prisoners escaping from the sewers and going on strike because they were only given one prison uniform. Finally, I think the cruelty of war is vividly reflected here, and peace is the best gift of this era. 📍Hỏa Lò Prison 💰Tickets: 5W ⏰Opening hours: 8:30-11:30/13:30-16:30

Hanoi's Historical Prison Museum is close to the tourist street and has a cheap entrance fee, but there is something heart-wrenching about it. It's not a place you would go out of your way to visit, but it's worth a visit. There were also many Vietnamese students who visited the museum. It's within walking distance and you don't need to take a taxi. #Museum

Hỏa Lò Prison is a historical building in Hanoi, Vietnam, built in 1896 during the French colonial period 🇻🇳 It was originally used to hold Vietnamese independence activists and political prisoners, and was also called the "Hanoi Hilton" due to its strict management system 👂 Inside the prison, narrow cells and torture instruments are on display, giving a glimpse into the harsh life that prisoners experienced at the time. During the Vietnam War, American prisoners of war were held here, and famous people such as future US Senator John McCain were imprisoned here. Part of the prison is open to the public as a museum, where you can learn about the hardships of Vietnam's colonial period, the independence movement, and even the history of the Vietnam War👍 Hoa Lo Prison is an important spot for learning about Vietnam's history as a symbol of past oppression and resistance, and is also a popular spot for tourists✨ 📍Location: 1 P. Hoả Lò, Trần Hưng Đạo, Hoàn Kiếm, Hà Nội, Vietnam #Furitabi #HanoiTourism #VietnamTourism #HanoiTrip #VietnamTrip #Hanoi #Vietnam #OverseasTrip #SoloTrip #Hoa LoPrison

#vietnamtrip The site is rich in history and provides deep insights into Vietnam's past, particularly during the Vietnam War. The exhibits are well-organized and informative, featuring photographs and artifacts that tell powerful stories. The atmosphere is both somber and reflective, giving visitors a chance to understand the struggles faced by those imprisoned there. The ticket price is reasonable, and the staff were friendly and helpful. I recommend taking your time to read the displays and absorb the history. If you're in Hanoi, Hoa Lo Prison is definitely worth a visit!

Hoa Lo Prison, often referred to as the “Hanoi Hilton” by American POWs during the Vietnam War, is a historic site located in Hanoi, Vietnam. Originally built by the French colonists in the late 19th century, it was used to imprison Vietnamese political prisoners and revolutionaries fighting for independence. The prison complex was infamous for its harsh conditions and brutal treatment of inmates. During the Vietnam War, it housed American prisoners of war, including notable figures such as Senator John McCain. Despite its grim history, the museum today portrays a narrative of Vietnamese resilience and their struggle for independence. The prison relic consists of exhibitions showcasing the life of prisoners, including cramped cells, torture instruments, and personal belongings of POWs. It also emphasizes the revolutionary spirit of the Vietnamese fighters, while glossing over some of the darker aspects of the POW experience during the Vietnam War.#hanoi

#SummerTripEventAddress: 1 P. Hoả Lo, Tran Hung Dao, Hoàn Kiếm, Hanoi, Vietnam Atmosphere/Facilities: It's a prison museum, so the atmosphere is somewhat heavy, but it was interesting and there was a lot to see Key Points: It felt like we shared a painful history similar to Korea Average Price Per Person: 3,000 won Rating: 9/10

#AugustDestinations2024 #IndoorDestinations #100TravelWays There are probably several main themes: the harsh prison environment during the French colonial period, the spirit of fighting against colonialism and striving for independence, and finally the struggle during the Vietnam War. The exhibits are rich but not overwhelming. There is a small amount of text commentary, but you still have to rely mainly on the audio guide. It is strongly recommended to rent an audio guide (in addition to the 50K ticket, the audio guide costs another 100K), which is available in Chinese; there is a very conspicuous rental place in front of the exhibition after entering.

My trip to Hanoi was truly unforgettable. The city's vibrant streets, rich history, and delicious food made every day an adventure. We explored iconic landmarks like the Old Quarter and Hoan Kiem Lake, where the blend of tradition and modernity was fascinating. The warmth and friendliness of the locals made us feel welcome wherever we went. #Hanoi #VietnamTravel #CulturalJourney #FoodieAdventures #OldQuarter #TravelDiaries #FamilyVacation #ExploreVietnam #Wanderlust #TravelWithKids