Private Tour
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
15 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
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.
Wonderful French Quarter Tour with Vân
Ronn49856,,Nov 15, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00I joined the Hoa Lo Prison and Little Paris Tour in Hanoi (French Quarter) with Vân as my guide, and it was an excellent experience. Since I had already visited the Hoa Lo Prison together with the War Museum on a previous tour, Vân adjusted the itinerary perfectly and spent more time showing me the beautiful and historic French Quarter. Her flexibility, deep knowledge, and clear explanations made the tour both enjoyable and very informative. I learned so much about the architecture, the colonial history, and the hidden corners of this elegant district. Vân’s warm personality and engaging storytelling added so much value to every stop we explored. I can highly recommend this tour as well.
Tour with Nam
sampR3955HS,,Nov 11, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00We had Nam as our tour guide and we learnt a lot. He knew his stuff and was very friendly along the way. Had a great time with him and would highly recommend.
Beautiful tour through the French Quarter with enthusiastic very nice guide
dinekef2022,,Oct 5, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Very good tour, a valuable addition to the hectic old part. The legacy of the French occupation both culturally and socially was expressed by our guide Van. Her enthusiasm made the tour last longer than planned. Highly recommended to do
Walkingtour with Van
Kilian1307,,Oct 3, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Van was an excellent guide. She is very cheerful and very communicative with all the guests. The tour had everything from the big must sees, till small and hidden places. The groupsize was perfect.
The best tour in Hanoi
lauraeP4975OD,,Sep 29, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00This was the best tour we ever had, Nam showed us the French Quarter and taught us a lot about Vietnamese culture, we were so captivated that we asked a thousand questions! Would recommend to everybody.
Exceptional day in Hanoi
Eric M,,Sep 19, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Very nice day passes next to julia and Lisa experience to renew unforgettable stay Hanoi city to visit absolutely
2025 Vina Tour.
JB J,,Sep 19, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00With my friends we had a great day with our guides. Excellent knowledge of the history of the country and Hanoi. Very good general culture. Exchanges are fluid in English. Very nice discovery...I highly recommend. I'll be back...you quay lai.
Hanoi, Never 2 without 3
Thanh Tung T,,Sep 19, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00We spent a culturally and humanly rewarding day with our guides. The journey through the alleys, ancient buildings and anecdotes brings us back to Hanoi’s past and history. The knowledge, the objective explanations and their humor make this activity a pleasant visit. I learn every trip to Hanoi. Thank you ladies Dictionary!!!!
Top Tier Tour Guide
JosephMcIntosh,,Aug 4, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00Nam is highly knowledgeable and presents local history in a compelling manner that is tailored to your interests.
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Operated by JA Vietnam