Hoa Lo Prison

Public domain

A prison the French built in 1896, later nicknamed the 'Hanoi Hilton' by the American pilots held here.

The French built Hoa Lo at the end of the nineteenth century to hold Vietnamese political prisoners and called it Maison Centrale — the words are still over the gate. Inside are rows of dark cells, concrete floors fitted with ranks of iron ankle shackles, solitary blocks, and a guillotine standing in one of the display rooms. Most of the prison was demolished in the 1990s to make way for a tower block; what remains is the memorial. The museum also covers the later period, when captured American pilots were held here and sardonically named the place the Hanoi Hilton — among them John McCain, later a US senator.

Visitor information

When is the best time to visit Hoa Lo Prison?

Year-round; mornings are quieter

How much does it cost to visit Hoa Lo Prison?

50,000d (indicative — check at the counter)

How long do you need at Hoa Lo Prison?

1 - 1.5 hours

What are the opening hours of Hoa Lo Prison?

08:00 - 17:00

Did you know

The prison was built by the French in 1896 under the name Maison Centrale.
It held many Vietnamese revolutionaries during the colonial period.
American pilots held here during the war sardonically nicknamed it the 'Hanoi Hilton'.
Most of the prison was demolished in the 1990s; the remaining section is preserved as a memorial.

Travel tips

Take the audio guide — the interpretation here is noticeably better than average.
The displays are heavy going; think twice about bringing young children.

Source: https://vi.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nh%C3%A0_t%C3%B9_H%E1%BB%8Fa_L%C3%B2

Updated: 2026-08-16