Things to Do in Hanoi Opera House

The Hanoi Opera House copied the Palais Garnier brick by brick. This 1911 French colonial masterpiece features marble columns, grand facades, and crystal chandeliers that make most visitors stop mid-stride. Total architectural showoff. Built when France ruled Indochina, the neoclassical building now hosts excellent performances in its 900-seat auditorium with red velvet seats. The opera house anchors Hanoi's cultural district where tree-lined boulevards connect luxury hotels, upscale restaurants, and boutique shops. French colonial charm meets Vietnamese hustle here. The surrounding area buzzes with locals and tourists gathering in cafes and parks, creating an atmosphere that feels both refined and authentically Vietnamese. Whether you catch a performance or just admire the building lit up at night, the opera house reveals Hanoi's artistic soul. Worth the visit.

The opera house district serves Hanoi's best food in elegant French restaurants, upscale Vietnamese spots, and international places housed in restored colonial buildings. Street food vendors operate a few blocks away in the Old Quarter. Much different vibe there. Many restaurants offer outdoor terraces perfect for people-watching. Several provide pre-theater menus for opera-goers with tight schedules. Fine dining dominates the immediate area.

Visit year-round, but October to April delivers the most comfortable weather. Cooler temperatures and lower humidity make evening strolls pleasant instead of sweaty ordeals. Performance season runs continuously. The most prestigious shows happen during cooler months when international touring companies visit. Evening visits work best when the building glows under lights. The surrounding streets come alive then.