Vietnam Museum of Ethnology Hanoi
Discover Vietnam's rich ethnic tapestry through immersive exhibits and authentic traditional houses.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Vietnam Museum of Ethnology Hanoi
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover Vietnam's rich ethnic tapestry through immersive exhibits and authentic traditional houses.
"A real overlooked gem, one of my favorite museums in the world."
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be walking a lot, especially to see the traditional houses outside. :athletic_shoe:
⏰ Allow Plenty of Time
Plan for at least 3-4 hours to explore both indoor and outdoor exhibits. :clock1:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Traditional Houses
Outdoor Exhibition Area
Explore authentic architectural replicas of homes from Vietnam's diverse ethnic groups. A truly immersive cultural experience.

Cultural Artifacts
Indoor Exhibition Halls
Discover a rich collection of costumes, tools, and daily life objects showcasing Vietnam's vibrant ethnic tapestry.
Special Exhibitions
Temporary Exhibition Hall
Check for rotating exhibits that delve deeper into specific cultural themes or historical periods.
Planning Your Visit
Allocate Ample Time
Embrace the Outdoors
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be walking a lot, especially to see the traditional houses outside. :athletic_shoe:
⏰ Allow Plenty of Time
Plan for at least 3-4 hours to explore both indoor and outdoor exhibits. :clock1:
☀️ Visit Outdoor Houses
The traditional houses are a highlight; explore them when the weather is pleasant. :sunwithface:
📸 Capture the Details
The exhibits are rich with detail, perfect for photography enthusiasts. :camerawithflash:
I ll be in Hanoi for 4 days next week!I know there so many things to see and day trips I have a hard time to choose! What would you recommend for 4 full days: so far I consider a day tour to Ninh Binh,a food tour for 3 hours with the get your guide app,first day probably just walking around Old Town
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be walking a lot, especially to see the traditional houses outside. :athletic_shoe:
⏰ Allow Plenty of Time
Plan for at least 3-4 hours to explore both indoor and outdoor exhibits. :clock1:
☀️ Visit Outdoor Houses
The traditional houses are a highlight; explore them when the weather is pleasant. :sunwithface:
📸 Capture the Details
The exhibits are rich with detail, perfect for photography enthusiasts. :camerawithflash:
💡 Rent an Audio Guide
Enhance your understanding of the exhibits with an audio guide. :microphone:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology Hanoi as a world-class institution offering deep insights into Vietnam's diverse ethnic cultures. The outdoor traditional houses are a major highlight, providing an immersive experience. While some find it a bit far from the city center, the educational value and affordability make it a highly recommended visit for anyone interested in Vietnamese heritage.
"Enjoyed the museum! The inside can be a little repetitive but the outside is beautiful and very beautifully done. It felt very interactive since you’re able to walk in the houses and explore. The tickets are 40k per person. Well worth it. We went on a Tuesday afternoon and it was very quiet."
Jennifer D-N
"Stunning museum which you can spend 3hours+ at and for only 40k.
There are 3 sections: the main building (goes through different ethnic groups), kite building (much broader range of exhibits including a while floor for Korea), and the outdoor exhibit which has many culturally significant buildings from the various ethnic groups.
The best museum we visited in Vietnam covering a wide range of areas and all very interesting with lots of detail."
Isaac Perry
"Amazing 🤩 I read rave reviews and it truly lived up!
There are 3 main sections - the main building, kite building and outdoor exhibitions.
For you to understand the bigger picture, you will need to visit the main building first. A simple walk through tells the story of different ethnicities of Vietnam and their culture, in depth enough to get a grasp. I was surprised at the vast groups of ethnicities. It unfolds the lives of people living by the coast, river, plains, and highlands. Allocate 1,5 hours here if you are the type that reads everything.
The kite building host exhibitions of Southeast Asia, it varies from time to time. When I was there, there was an exhibition of textiles & costumes. Very interesting, allocate +/- an hour here.
The outdoor area consists of real ethnic houses, down to the decor, tools, and display of a typical dwelling. The original craftsman was invited to build the houses on site, each one telling a story. The story of things in the main building comes to life in the outdoor exhibition. Allocate 1,5 hours here.
All in all, if you can only do 1 museum in Hanoi, pick this one! Definitely worth your time."
N.a.d S
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The museum is located a bit outside the city center. Many visitors take a taxi or ride-sharing service (like Grab) which is convenient and relatively inexpensive.
Public buses are also an option, though they can be slower and more crowded. Check local bus routes for the most up-to-date information.Yes, it's a moderate distance from the Old Quarter, typically a 20-30 minute taxi or Grab ride depending on traffic. It's worth the trip for the unique exhibits.
Taxis and ride-sharing apps are highly recommended for ease and comfort. Some travelers also opt for motorbikes if they are comfortable navigating Hanoi traffic.
Yes, the museum has parking facilities for cars and motorbikes, which is convenient if you're driving yourself.
Yes, taxis and ride-sharing services are readily available at the museum's entrance for your return journey.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission is very affordable, often around 40,000 VND (approximately $1.50 USD), making it a budget-friendly attraction.
Prices can change, so it's always good to confirm upon arrival.The museum is typically open from Tuesday to Sunday, usually from 8:30 AM to 5:30 PM. It's closed on Mondays. Always check their official website for the most current hours.
No, advance booking is generally not required. You can purchase tickets at the entrance upon arrival.
While not always advertised, it's worth inquiring at the ticket counter about potential discounts for students or seniors.
Weekends and holidays can be busier, but generally, the museum is less crowded than some other major attractions in Hanoi, especially on weekday mornings.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The museum showcases the rich cultural diversity of Vietnam's 54 ethnic groups through artifacts, costumes, and traditional houses. It's considered world-class by many visitors.
Most visitors recommend dedicating at least 3-4 hours to fully explore both the indoor exhibits and the outdoor traditional houses.
Yes, guided tours are often available, and renting an audio guide can also greatly enhance your understanding of the exhibits.
Yes, children can find the traditional houses and the displays of tools and costumes fascinating. It's an educational experience for all ages.
The outdoor area features life-size replicas of traditional houses from various ethnic groups, offering a unique glimpse into their architecture and way of life.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, the museum has a restaurant that serves Vietnamese cuisine, offering a convenient place to rest and refuel during your visit.
The restaurant typically offers a selection of traditional Vietnamese dishes, providing an opportunity to sample local flavors.
While there are limited options immediately outside, it's best to plan for dining either at the museum's restaurant or back in the city center after your visit.
It's generally advisable to consume your own food and drinks outside the exhibition halls. Check museum policy for specific guidelines.
The restaurant is generally considered reasonably priced, offering good value for its convenient location within the museum grounds.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally allowed in most areas, but flash photography might be restricted in certain exhibits to protect artifacts. Always look for signage.
The traditional houses in the outdoor area, the colorful ethnic costumes, and the intricate details of the artifacts offer fantastic photo opportunities.
If there are staff or performers in traditional dress, it's polite to ask for permission before taking their photo.
Yes, drone photography is strictly prohibited within the museum grounds and surrounding areas.
A versatile lens (like a 24-70mm) is great for capturing both wide shots of the houses and details of artifacts. A wide-angle lens is excellent for the outdoor spaces.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
To make the visit even more enjoyable for kids, consider bringing snacks and drinks (to be consumed in designated areas) and planning for breaks. The museum's restaurant offers a convenient option for lunch. While the indoor exhibits are informative, focus on the visual aspects and the more tangible items to keep children interested. The sheer scale and variety of the exhibits make it a memorable and enriching experience for the whole family.
💰 Budget Travelers
To maximize your savings, consider using public transportation to reach the museum, although taxis or ride-sharing apps are still relatively inexpensive. Pack your own water bottle and snacks to avoid purchasing them at higher prices within the museum. The extensive outdoor exhibits offer plenty of space to explore without additional costs, providing hours of cultural discovery.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Vietnam's Ethnic Diversity
One of the most captivating aspects of the museum is its outdoor exhibition area, featuring life-size replicas of traditional houses. These architectural marvels, from the stilt houses of the Tay and Thai people to the communal Rong houses of the Central Highlands, provide an immersive experience. Walking through these structures allows visitors to grasp the practicalities and aesthetics of ethnic housing. It’s a stark contrast to the urban environment of Hanoi and offers a tangible connection to the country's rural and indigenous cultures. Many travelers consider this outdoor section a highlight, often spending as much time here as in the indoor galleries.
Beyond the visual exhibits, the museum often hosts special temporary exhibitions that delve deeper into specific cultural practices, historical events, or contemporary issues faced by ethnic minorities. These rotating displays ensure that there's always something new to discover, even for repeat visitors. The museum also plays a crucial role in cultural preservation and education, serving as a vital resource for researchers, students, and anyone interested in the complex social fabric of Vietnam.
Navigating the Museum Grounds
After exploring the indoor exhibits, the real adventure begins in the outdoor exhibition area. This section is designed to feel like a journey through Vietnam's diverse landscapes, with traditional houses dotted across landscaped gardens. It's here that you can truly appreciate the architectural ingenuity and cultural significance of these dwellings. Allow ample time to wander between the houses, take photos, and imagine life within these unique structures. The paths are generally well-maintained, but some areas might have uneven terrain, so caution is advised.
For those seeking a deeper understanding, audio guides are available and highly recommended. They provide detailed narratives that enrich the experience, offering context and stories behind the objects and houses. The museum also has a restaurant on-site, which is a convenient spot to take a break, enjoy some Vietnamese cuisine, and reflect on the cultural insights gained.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit