Hoa Lo Prison and Little Paris Tour in Hanoi (French Quarter)
Overview
Available languages
3 hours
Mobile ticket
Step back in time as you explore the historic French Quarter of Hanoi, where colonial charm meets the resilient spirit of the Vietnamese people. Wander through iconic landmarks like the Government Guesthouse, the grand Hanoi Opera House, and the haunting Hoa Lo Prison, each telling a powerful story - from French colonization to the fierce struggle for independence.
Stroll through what many call a "mini Paris" in the heart of Hanoi, where elegant European architecture lines the streets.
Dive deeper into French influence in Vietnam through stunning examples of Indochinese architecture, a rare fusion of East and West found only in Southeast Asia.
But the journey doesn't stop there, our tour also takes you through the gripping history of Vietnam’s resistance against the United States, famously known as the Vietnam War. From colonial shadows to modern-day triumphs, we can’t wait to share with you the incredible stories that shaped Vietnam’s identity.
Additional Info
Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
What To Expect
Statue of King Le Thai To
Discover Vietnam’s long history and the deep cultural and historical roots of Hanoi as the imperial and national capital of Vietnam. Understand why a large statue of King Ly Thai To stands at the heart of the city and its significance.
Hanoi’s history during French colonial rule and the Vietnamese resistance against the French.
What‘s Included
Bottled water
Entrance ticket
Guide
Coffee and/or Tea
Gratuities
Pickup points
Select a pickup point
Options
Hoa Lo Prison and Little Paris Tour in Hanoi (French Quarter)
Pickup included
Reviews
23 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
The historical value of...
Sandra W,Mar 6, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00The historical value of the tour was very high. Shaun is a very knowledgeable and kind person, he ensured we were comfortable and engaged with the topics. We would highly recommend him as a tour guide.
Best guide ever for best tour ever
KandyKam,Feb 25, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Julia was an amazing guide teaching us many new facts about Vietnams history. Throughout the tour, she was also really patient with our questions we asked. She was so friendly and nice even going 1 hour over time just to teach us more. She also recommended us a lot of restaurants to go to. She was the most amazing guide ever!
Great tour and guide
915miak,Feb 23, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Shaun was a really great guide, giving us all the information and cultural background easy to understand in excellent English. The tour was well thoughthrough composed of the essential highlights. Thank you very much Shaun for this helpful introduction into history and culture of Hanoi. Yara
Amazing trip !
P6001XHcyrilm,Feb 3, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00We had a really good tour with Julia, we visited must seen spot with great details of the history, culture and habits of Viet Nam. But also some others hidden spot like an old appartment build during french colonization. Julia was really kind and has an onsane knowledge. We also had great conversation about some differents subjects.
Best Walking Tour I had in Vietnam
Ambassador145277,Jan 7, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00I went to the tour with Lisa, and it turned out to be the best walking tour I had in Vietnam. Lisa is very friendly and knowledgable. Talking with Lisa is more like conversation between friends, not tour guide vs. tourists, which made the tour more fun and enjoyable. We visited some hidden places, and got great recommendation of local restaurant. Definitely recommended Lisa and this tour.
Fabulous walking tour of French Quarter
fayesI473VX,Jan 4, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Had a great walking tour with Julia this morning. I learned so much about the history and culture of Vietnam. Highly recommend recommend it to everyone who wants to enjoy their tour . Can hardly wait to try her restaurant recommendations .
Hoa Lo prison and Little Paris
173elenid,Jan 4, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Julia showed us a number of interesting places and took the time to explain details covering various historical events, architecture and Vietnamese culture. She is warm and makes you feel comfortable throughout the tour. Julia has a positive energy and you can see that she loves what she does which enabled me to truly enjoy the tour. Highly recommend this for tourists in Hanoi!
Julia is probably one of the best tour guide
wilw491,Jan 3, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Julia is very professional, knowledgeable and outgoing. She provided all the information we need to understand Vietnam in general and Hanoi in specific. Her English is excellent and the pace of the tour is just perfect. The best tour in Vietnam so far.
Fabulous tour in Hanoi
GLENCC,Dec 20, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00We spent a very enjoyable 4 hours walking around the French district. We learnt so much about the buildings but also about life in Hanoi. The last place we visited was the Hanoi Hilton - the prison. Very harrowing but a must to see. We would recommend this tour to anyone. Thank you.
Great insight of Hanoi in a Nutshell
cindyn983,Dec 5, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00I went on this free walking tour from free tour and it was a great decision to do the guided walking tour as I could listen to the story and places I won’t know if I explored myself. Nam is such a great guide and very informative, he told us the story behind every stops and always answering and even provided us with other infos.
Related Experiences
Operated by JA Vietnam