West Lake

West Lake (Vietnamese: Hồ Tây) is the biggest freshwater lake of Hanoi, Vietnam, located northwest of the city center. With a shore length of 17 kilometres (11 mi) and 500 hectares (5.0 km2) in area, this is the largest lake of the capital and a popular place for recreation with many surrounding gardens, hotels and villas. A small part of West Lake is divided by Thanh Niên road to form Trúc Bạch Lake. Most of the lake is located within Tây Hồ District, named after the lake.
West Lake was created from a curved part of Red River and appeared in several Vietnamese legends. One legend suggests that West Lake was shaped after the battle between Lạc Long Quân and a hồ tinh (nine-tailed fox), and that's why the lake was once called "Fox Corpse Swamp" (Đầm Xác Cáo). Another folk story claimed that original name of the lake was "Golden Buffalo Lake" (Hồ Trâu Vàng, or Sino-Vietnamese vocabulary: Hồ Kim Ngưu) because it was formed from struggle of a buffalo after the disappearance of her calf. In the 11th century, the lake was named "Foggy Lake" (Hán Việt: Hồ Dâm Đàm) due to its misty condition. Ultimately its name was changed to "West Lake" in 1573 to avoid the given name of Emperor Lê Thế Tông, which was Duy Đàm.
West Lake is bordered by many significant places in the history of Hanoi and Vietnam. Trấn Quốc Pagoda, an ancient Buddhist temple in Vietnam,[1] was built in the 6th century by Emperor Lý Nam Đế and is located on a small island in the middle of the lake. Near Trấn Quốc Pagoda is Quán Thánh Temple, one of the Four Sacred Temples of ancient Hanoi (Vietnamese: Thăng Long Tứ Trấn). Chu Văn An High School, one of the oldest high schools in Vietnam, is also located close to the lake.

It’s a fun lake to drive around if you rent a scooter. Less traffic along the perimeter and there’s plenty of sights and stops to see along the way.

West Lake in Hanoi, visited in February, was a tranquil and picturesque retreat. The serene beauty of the lake, surrounded by lush greenery, provided a peaceful escape from the city's hustle and bustle. Whether enjoying a leisurely stroll or sampling local delicacies at lakeside cafes, West Lake offered a serene and rejuvenating experience.

Hanoi West Lake (Hồ Tây) is the biggest freshwater lake in Hanoi, Vietnam. It is an enjoyable walk around the lake. The lake is surrounded by buildings, garden, hotel and walkway path. There are also several cafes and restaurants at the lake side where visitors may sit back, relax, and enjoy the lake as well as a sip of coffee. I saw a good sunset photo from this lake but did not manage to get catch it. To reach this place, visitors may take e-hailing Grab ride

A huge lake with great views of the skyline. We went just before sunset and the views were breathtaking. You can just walk along and admire the views. It's very peaceful and the wind keeps you cool.

The largest lake of Hanoi. 16km and 4 hours for walking.

The west lake, is a different Face of Hanoi, brilliant for running around.

Beautiful, sacred, full of natural energy, harmonious.

Best place to live in #hanoi #westlake #tayho

West Lake is really famous in Hanoi, almost all of the tourists coming to Hanoi know it. It's really large, it takes around 30 minutes to drive along the lake. When you go to West Lake, you will have some beautiful photos. There're a lot of pretty coffee shops and restaurants thereabouts, both casual and fine dinnings, most of them serve Western cuisine. The best time to visit West Lake to me must be the sunset in the Autumn.

The biggest lake in town, such a good place for outdoor activities like walking, biking and walking dogs, ..
There are many hotels, restaurants, street food, coffee shops around the lake.
Traffic here is heavier in the afternoon at peak hours

Huge & beautiful lake in town. You can enjoy some fresh air when doing excercise (biking, running & walking…). I love Hanoi! 🤟

Nice view, there isn't a definite bike path but it's still a good ride.

I recently visited this stunning lakeside location, and I was absolutely blown away by the breathtaking beauty it offers. The tranquil serenity of the lake, surrounded by lush greenery, creates a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
The shimmering waters glisten under the sun, and the gentle ripples provide a sense of calm that's hard to find elsewhere. Whether you're here for a peaceful morning stroll, a romantic picnic, or just to soak in the natural beauty, this place has it all.
The birdwatching opportunities are a bonus – I spotted a variety of waterfowl and even a majestic heron during my visit. The picturesque sunsets by the lake are truly a sight to behold, making it an ideal spot for photographers.
With well-maintained paths and benches strategically placed for relaxation, this location is perfect for all ages. Whether you're a nature enthusiast or simply seeking a tranquil escape, the lakeside view here is a hidden gem that should not be missed. I can't wait to return and experience this paradise again.

Nice to walk around beside the lake during sunset time.

Nice place for watching both sunrise and sunset. It's now become popular for runners and cyclers. The round of Westlake is about 16.5km. There are many restaurants both local and international, cafes, shops, bicycle rentals, etc

I had a very enjoyable walk around part of this lake. It's worth going to to enjoy some fresh air, take some photos, walk around and watch the locals enjoying life.

I would say this is the best place to stay in hanoi

Super beautiful lake in town!

Beautiful place with many young people here. The air is good and the view is perfect. Suitable for loving couple or even single because it is romantic