Hanoi Flag Tower

Chinasaur · CC BY-SA 2.0

A Nguyen-dynasty watchtower, one of very few parts of the old Hanoi citadel left standing whole.

The flag tower was raised in the early nineteenth century under the Nguyen dynasty as a lookout for the Hanoi citadel. When the French demolished almost the entire fortress to cut new streets through, this was one of the very few structures they kept — because it made a convenient observation post. So it survives intact: three square tiers stepping inward, an octagonal shaft pierced by flower-shaped and fan-shaped openings for light, and a spiral stair inside climbing to the top. From the lookout at the summit you look straight across to the Imperial Citadel and out over a whole quarter of the old city.

Visitor information

When is the best time to visit Hanoi Flag Tower?

Year-round, mornings

How much does it cost to visit Hanoi Flag Tower?

Covered by the ticket for the museum in the same grounds

How long do you need at Hanoi Flag Tower?

30 - 45 minutes

What are the opening hours of Hanoi Flag Tower?

08:00 - 16:30, closed some days of the week

Did you know

The tower was built in the early nineteenth century under the Nguyen dynasty.
It is one of the few structures of the old Hanoi citadel that the French did not demolish.
The shaft is octagonal, pierced with flower-shaped and fan-shaped openings for light.
A spiral staircase inside leads up to the lookout at the top.

Travel tips

The tower stands in the grounds of the Military History Museum — do both together.
The inner staircase is narrow and dark; wear grippy shoes and use the handrail.

Source: https://vi.wikipedia.org/wiki/C%E1%BB%99t_c%E1%BB%9D_H%C3%A0_N%E1%BB%99i

Updated: 2026-08-16