Ba Dinh Square (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is Ba Dinh Square?
What makes it 67% Kids-Friendly: Children can admire marching soldiers and run on open grass, but strict silence inside the Mausoleum, long security lines, basic toilets and no play facilities limit comfort after about an hour.
Positives:
- Spacious open areas: Kids can run safely on the lawns under your watch.
- Free highlights: Flag ceremonies and lawn access cost nothing, helping you stay on budget.
Challenges:
- Limited shade: Few trees or covered spots mean midday sun can be intense for children.
- Basic restrooms: Public toilets have no baby-changing tables and only basic facilities.
What is Ba Dinh Square?
- A grand ceremonial plaza in central Hanoi, where President Ho Chi Minh proclaimed Vietnam’s independence in 1945
- Bordered by the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, Presidential Palace, and One Pillar Pagoda, forming a complex of national landmarks
- Characterized by expansive lawns, formal pathways, and austere architecture reflective of its historical and political significance
What is so special about Ba Dinh Square for with kids?
- Experience the stirring flag-raising ceremony free of charge.
- Let kids run and play across the vast, green lawns.
- Explore the unique One Pillar Pagoda and its lotus pond.
- Sample fresh fruit juices and spring rolls on Ngoc Ha Street.
- Plan early visits to beat the heat and avoid crowds.
Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours
Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: Allows time for the flag ceremony, lawn play, Pagoda visit, and a snack break without rushing younger children.
Kids-Friendly Activities in Ba Dinh Square
Morning Flag-Raising Ceremony:
Watch soldiers march and raise the Vietnamese flag at sunrise.
Tip: Arrive 15 minutes early for a good view and cooler temperatures.
Run and Play on the Lawns:
Let children burn energy on the wide green lawns around the mausoleum.
Tip: Bring a ball or kite and supervise children near walkways.
Visit the One Pillar Pagoda:
See the 11th-century wooden pagoda standing on a single stone pillar in a lotus pond.
Tip: Buy tickets on-site and let kids spot lotus flowers in the pond.
Snack Break on Ngoc Ha Street:
Walk to nearby stalls for fresh fruit juices and spring rolls.
Tip: Choose busy stalls for fresh ingredients and sit at outdoor tables for a quick rest.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Ba Dinh Square
- Visit at ceremony times: Start around 6:00 AM to see the flag-raising and enjoy cooler temperatures.
- Pack essentials: Bring water, sun hats, snacks, and a small mat or blanket for breaks on the lawn.
Reviews of Ba Dinh Square
Thanh Hoang
It was my first time being there. The square was huge and the mausoleum looked grandeur and solemn. Next to the mausoleum, are Ho Chi Minh Museum (foreign tourists have to buy tickets) and One Pillar Pagoda that are also worth to see.
Alvin
The square is very spacious, very neat, clean and well maintained. You can take photos and stay for 1 hour.
Mihai Ivanov (Jokery)
Free entry, wear long pants/dress if you want to enter some places. Not recommending going on Monday, some areas are closed.
D Ramsay
Visited HCM Mausoleum that morning. Stumbled on the flag lowering ceremony at 9pm that night. Very interesting and moving. Very helpful guard gave us best tips in good English and welcomed us to this special precision ceremony.
Joan Ruiz Alba
If you want to see the crypt of ho chi ming president you must go between 7 and 11 in the morning. They only open few hours and it is very protected by many soldiers. They ask you to keep the bags and the cameras in one store. But is worth plan the morning too see the crypt.
When is the best time to visit Ba Dinh Square (Hanoi, Vietnam)?
In summer (Apr–Oct), visit early or late to avoid midday heat and carry water and sun hats. In cooler months (Nov–Mar), bring light jackets for chilly mornings at the flag ceremony.
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Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| One Pillar Pagoda tickets (4) | VND 100,000 |
| Snacks & fruit drinks (4) | VND 150,000 |
| Taxi/Grab round-trip | VND 100,000 |
| Total Estimated | VND 350,000 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Content Notice: This content combines editorial expertise with AI assistance to ensure comprehensive and up-to-date information. Our team regularly curates and reviews all content for accuracy and relevance. Help Us Improve
Map of Ba Dinh Square
Address: Hùng Vương, Điện Biên, Ba Đình, Hà Nội 10020, Vietnam
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About Ba Dinh Square
Opening Hours
Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
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